Fashion

Grab and Go

I'm starting to think that when it comes to seasonal dressing one can never get a break. I say this because I'm currently sitting inside, away from the sun and humidity, and ironically freezing. Now I've mentioned this before in posts but suffice it to say, you really can never be prepared. When temperatures fluctuate from 60 to 90 what's a girl to do? Be ready with lots and lots of options.

Layers are an excellent way to stock your closet. And I don't just mean cardigans, girls! I mean leggings (under dresses), tanks beneath flowy blouses and cute 3/4-sleeved jackets and shrugs for over tee's and tops. These are all things that can be worn throughout the seasons which makes their cost-per-wear quite reasonable.

Below I've taken it upon myself to not only find great sale items (the best time of year for that) but I've also added in the challenge of making sure whatever I'm suggesting will be just as fashionable in
2008 as it is right now.

Where did I begin? At my favorite discount designer website bluefly.com of course. First up, this brilliant orange top by Rachel Pally. The design is perfect when worn under a cute khaki jacket in the summer or over a thick, textured turtleneck in the winter. Also on bluefly.com is short sleeved gold jacket by Generra which is ideal in any climate. Wear a long sleeved black top underneath in the winter and in the summer, button it up over a simple cotton shirt.

Moving along, American Apparel, long a favorite of college grads and thrifters alike, has upped the anti with one of the largest selections of tights and leggings around. Seriously, look no further than the jersey placket version with cute calf buttons or the acrylic cable-knit legging. If you're a one-stop shopper like me then pick up other essentials like this unisex wide striped cardigan and baby rib 8-button pullover.

Finally, for an extra special selection you can't beat Nordstrom.
There is something ultra appealing about their collections lately.
Especially the Marc by Marc Jacobs (of course anything by him is brilliant)! This sweater is especially hip because it's bulky and baggy. The design makes for a cozy wear while the extra wide arms are any girls dream (hides everything) during the summer and winter months. Equally appealing for evening soirees is this Wilster knit jacket with bow. The color is neutral enough while the cut makes it convenient to wear both open and closed.

What do I wear with this?

I was asked to an impromptu wedding this past weekend with only a few days notice. And after deciding if we should go or not (we said yes) I was faced with a dilemma many girls can relate to...what to wear when you have no time to shop. I'm beginning to realize that I should have a separate entry on this altogether but for the time being, suffice it to say, you should always have at least three great dresses hanging in your closet for times like this.

I do. And though mine happen to all be black I really do love them. I believe that when it comes to trustworthy options (through thick or thin waistlines and varying temperatures) these three are my answers. So I continually pull them out on various occasions. First off, yes it's ok to wear black to a wedding. Honestly, I'd rather tell girls to do that then don some sad floral dress with disappointing heels. At least with black you have options--colored pumps, fancy jewels, smashing clutch's. So please don't hesitate there.

What I do believe is a matter of importance--and something this entry is solely devoted to--are all the trimmings. When you wear black you're virtually a blank canvas so what you put with it takes center stage.

My perfect ensemble begins with a great pair of earrings. How about these graphic hearts by Betsy Johnson? Neutral enough they'll support any gold necklace (this one from Urban Outfitters is fantastic) especially if it's made out of lucite, black and gold. Following the jewelry is the bag. I love options so I always keep a few metallics on hand along with a nice, simple black clutch. This one from Etsy is fun and cheap!

Moving on from there come the shoes. You can never go wrong with something in gold, especially when it comes woven and textured. But if that's too flashy opt for something soft and sleek. I can't say enough about these taupe satin slingbacks from our favorite shoe king, Christian Louboutin. You can wear them alone in the summer or with tights in the winter.

Whether it's shoes, handbags, jewelry or the dress, the most important thing is that you buy something that'll last longer than a night. Having closet staples is important, but having ones you like to wear is even better.