What to do This Weekend!

So even though I'll be out of town and won't even be there to join you, if you're an Angeleno, mark your calendars. LACMA, aside from opening an expansive new Pavilion that is worth the trip alone, is debuting their new exhibit, Fashioning Fashion: European Dress in Detail: 1700-1915. I love looking for inspiration in some unexpected and unusual ways and a trip to the museum always does the trick. When you couple it with the fact that this is an exhibit about fashion, well all I can say is bring your notebook and get ready to jot down some ideas. Take your time and soak it all in, it's a great place to get ideas of how you want your style to be and steal cues from the past that you may want to incorporate into your own individual style.

(Photo: courtesy of LACMA)

Day to Night

When it comes to my day to night schedule, I'm usually looking for clothes that will multi-task. Because I so often end up changing in my car (sad, I know), or throwing something on at the last minute, I need pieces that work (the less dry cleaning, the better) and look good whether I'm hitting the pavement during the day or dazzling designers at night. So it's probably no surprise that I have a weakness for 2-in-1 designs. I could stash this reversible cardigan in my car and wear it two nights in a row without anyone being the wiser. Seems like the perfect solution for days when I need a quick fix, or just can't decide whether black or camel goes best with my outfit. Love finding things that work with me, and interpreting the season's grandfather cardigan trend in the best possible way.

(photo: courtesy of LaGarconne)

Velvet: Would You Wear It?

Now I am going to try and talk something out with all ya'll. Velvet. It kind of makes me cringe, thinking of the crushed velvet I have worn in my past, but I do have a soft spot for the black velvet blazer I wore expertly through college. But these days velvet seems to be firmly placed in my rear view mirror. But stop. Alexa Chung incorporated some velvet shorts (yes, shorts!) into her line for Madewell. So despite me thinking that pretty much everything she wears is adorable, is velvet really back? And if so, does that mean we should wear it? Entirely not sure how I feel but my sneaking suspicion is no, it's not going to happen. Sure, they look hella cute on this model, but let's face it, they won't look like that on me. One style does not fit all, so going to have to do some thinking--and trying on--before committing to this resurgence.

(photo: courtesy of Madewell)

What To Wear: Date Night

For all you inquiring minds out there, the series continues. Today we discuss what to wear on a date. Now, I can argue that there are a million and one factors that go into what to wear on a date. Like a) his height. That's why I am going to say that the shoes can either be cute, moderate heels or flats. They're interchangeable. As much as I love my blazer, it may be too business for a date. Go for something unfussy, subtly sexy without showing a ton of skin. And most important: something you feel amazing in. My go-to is this great top by Parker. It covers up just the right amount (aka, a lot), but it still has a cinched waist and feminine silhouette that shows my girlish figure. Plus, it looks great with my wear-everywhere skinny jeans AND will even look good when I make the eventual switch over to high-waisted bell bottoms. As I said the shoes can be up to you, depending on how you feel--and whether you want to look up or down at your date. Use the shirt as a great building block, and add your own style from there.

(Photo: courtesy of Shopbop)

Interest in the Icons

So I was reading my horoscope the other day (it's part of my morning routine somewhere in between CNN and Shopbop) and it appropriately told me something that I've already been thinking. It said "Getting informed is easy once you decide it's important. It will be a vital part of making a good impression." They had to be talking about my style, right? Well, that's what I think. The informing their talking about is reading (and Internet surfing) up on some of those cool classic women that we all try and emulate and who serve as style icons for us on those days when we can't quite seem to put it together. The lady I'm after? Margherita Missoni. As the brand ambassador to her family's Italian knitwear label she is every bit boho cool that I wish I could be, and layers her line's zigzag prints in a way that would make me downright dizzy but that looks nothing short of perfect. I'm going to read up on her and see how her great style can be a learning tool and jumping off point for mine. Then I'll really make a good impression. Who is your icon? 

(photo: courtesy of Pearls Vintage)

Sock Hop

Everyone's worst nightmare is getting stuck at an aiport terminal with a delayed flight. I kind of love wandering the halls of the Jet Blue terminal at JFK. Always my first stop? Muji. The Japenese minimalist brand has amazing knick knacks that you never knew you had to have. Their ankle socks in cool, threaded colors are my absolute favorite. I have them in a ton of fun, different colors and now I don't mind when my pant leg inches up a bit and I flash some sock. Now that I've put the Havaianas away until next summer (and the flats are making ever rarer appearances), the boots are back in rotation and that means socks are part of my everyday look. It's a fun little way to express yourself, even if you're the only one who sees it. Try a fun color, or mix things up with a print. (I had the COOLEST pair of watermelon socks when I was younger.) And next time that flight gets delayed, take a deep breath and go for a walk. You may just stumble upon Muji!

(photo: courtesy of Muji)

A New Proportion

As much as I love my Levi's Jean Jacket (it's become a well-documented fact), sometimes it can be a struggle to find things to pair it with. Not quite right with my skinny jeans (though I DO wear denim on denim), and sometimes only looks really great with a longer shirt since the jacket is a bit shorter. So I'm heeding the suggestion of this awesome site (there really are a lot out there) and pairing my fitted jean jacket with a voluminous skirt. It's a play with proportions that I hadn't considered, but I do like pairing something fitted with something with a little volume. The skirt will let me wear my foolproof Falke tights (Dear L.A., please cool down already!) and those awesome new suede wedges that are sadly already collecting dust in my closet. The voluminous skirt? I think I'll try a color, maybe even a fun floral print paired with dark grey tights. It's a great look and a way to keep wearing my beloved jean jacket (yay!) well beyond summer. Playing with proportions and lengths is such a great way to reinvent your look and get new style ideas in a flash.

(photo: courtesy of The Classic Case)

Back to the Jewelry Basics

So, as you've noticed, I've become a huge fan/collector of oversized jewelry of late. There are the souped-up friendship bracelets, lucite bangles, metal cuffs, Fenton/Fallon for J. Crew bib necklace. The list goes on, and embarrassingly on. But what I'm realizing is that as much as I loved these huge, stylish baubles, I might need a basic or two. It's like putting underwear on before getting dressed. Granted, I want this underwear to be Hanky Panky chic, but I want something to dress down to, for those uber-casual days when those layered jewels just won't do. So I'm on the hunt for a classic, simple pendant necklace. Of course I'll layer all those other big necklaces over it, but I want a small starting off point that'll become a part of me. I want people to see it and think of me, and I want it to become an irreplaceable part of my everyday look. So the hunt continues as I consider my options. Keeping my eyes peeled and doing a bit of research before I commit...

(photo: courtesy of Maya Brenner)

No Really, I Made This

So I know I mentioned this before, but once again (and for all you new readers out there), you really need to pick up the new book, P.S. I Made This. I just got the book in the mail and I'm mildly obsessed. First of all, it's adorable. It takes everyday fashions that we know and love and figures out ways to make them yourself. Reminds me of my lanyarding days and that awesome birthday party where we puffy painted Keds. But for real, this book shows how an average girl can do something pretty damn cool, which just happens to be the point of this here blog. Want a bib necklace? No prob, she can make it. Tuxedo pants in a flash? She can find everything you need to whip up your very own pair. She's cute, witty, and just a little more practical that I can ever dream of being. Here's to having another girl who's just like me...just a little bit craftier. 

(photo: courtesy of P.S. I Made This)

Black + Brown...Really?

I used to think that brown and black didn't go together. Not sure who told me this, but I stuck to it pretty strictly. I even went so far as buying a belt that had intercheangable straps so that I always had the appropriately colored belt standing by. Looking at this street style photo and again I realize I definitely had it all wrong. Looking at this great subject who's wearing a great black blazer (check!) with some brown and camel accents makes me realize that pairing black with brown may just be the only way I want to wear it. It softens it up a bit and let's me showcase something that's unexpected. Not that I'd ever consider my style unexpected, but it certainly lets me wear more of my closet together than I thought, and look pretty chic doing it. Love, love, love getting inspiration and ideas from these street style photos! 

(photo: courtesy of Hanneli)

Orange You Glad to See Me?

Whoever said Orange is the new Pink is seriously deluded. Who said it? That's right, the one and only Elle Woods. So did this fashionista in fact have it all wrong? As I go through runway shot after runway shot, I realize that the color may be making a comeback. Important to understand when considering adding the shade into your look. One orange does not work for everyone (consider the faux-tanned). My albino-pale skin would have to wear a much darker orange than a tan friend of mine who would look great in a peachier hue. So what gives? I am guessing that since Camel is the new Black, it only makes sense that Orange become the new Pink. Rich, deep shades of orange work so well with camel and can be worn through any season. Deep hues in the fall and fun pastels during the spring. When summer comes around? An awesome neon orange would be fun. Bottom line: this may just be a challenge worth taking. Plus, finding the shade that is perfect for you enables you to interpret the trend in a way that's still original--and unique to your style.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

Weekend Wear

For some reason on the weekend, I have the hardest time getting dressed. Maybe it's because I am always trying to get myself to go to the gym, so my Lululemon Groove pants are usually a safe bet. My Splendid sweats? I embarrassingly wear them everywhere. But there are those occasions when I'm a bit embarrassed to wear my sweats out and those are the same times when I can't for the life of me figure out what to wear. So, as promised, here's my tips for what to wear to Sunday brunch. I think this comes from all those times when I wore the wrong thing, or got frustrated that I didn't look as cute as everyone else. So through my own trial and error, I've come up with somewhat of a foolproof look. First, is a striped shirt. Obvious, I know, but it still looks crisp each time. I'm pretty loyal to my striped shirts and maybe when it cools down a bit I'll switch the t-shirt out for a sweater. Next is jeans. Weekends=jeans. I've been wearing my skinny JBrands on-end, so I've just switched it up with a pair of Current/Elliott boyfriend jeans. They happen to look super cute with my weekend outfit. The finishing touch is shoes. Ballet flats are usually my go-to, but depending on where I'm going, my Havaianas work too, as do my navy blue TOMS. I can dress it up or dress it down--add a scarf, cardigan, or bracelets--but each time that striped shirt anchors a perfect outfit. Sunday brunch, here I come.

(photo: courtesy of J. Crew)

How to Shop for Vintage

I think people who "flea" (market, that is) and scour vintage shops are about as cool as they come. Sad news is that I think the Rose Bowl Flea Market is pretty much my own worst nightmare. Vintage stores that require sifting through racks to find one great thing? Waste of time, if you ask me. But how do I deal with the bouts of jealousy when those vintage-loving friends happen upon something amazing because they have the patience I lack? I have to figure out a way to get my own vintage fix without wanting to cry. So I'm going to start small and first use vintage stores as a way to educate myself. This way I'll learn something without the pressure of finding something great to buy. First lesson to be learned: when you sift through older designs, you can see incredible craftsmanship at work. It makes the crap they sell at H&M look like garbage. Take a walk through a vintage store on Melrose, or South Street in Philadelphia, or even down somewhere in SoHo. Run your hands across the garment and take an extra look at the stitching and zipper. Educate yourself on what quality clothes are supposed to look and feel like. It'll make what you actually purchase go the extra mile.

(photo: courtesy of Style With Benefits)

Can you Clog?

When I was younger, third grade or so, I was no way--no how allowed to buy clogs. Everyone else had them so I naturally wanted them, but my parents told me I would trip and fall in them (which knowing me, they were probably right). When I wasn't plotting how to build my very own pair out of plywood, I was (even then) thinking about how I would wear them ALL the time. There are some pretty cute versions out there now, spurred by clogs showing up at a certain designer show a few seasons back--ahem, Chanel--but I am still afraid that I may break an ankle if I wear the classic version. So what's a girl to do? Well, I think that instead of getting the high heeled clogs that everyone's been wearing, I'll get a pair of clog boots for Winter. I can wear them to work and they're just a bit different than what everyone else is wearing, which is my idea of perfect.

(photo: courtesy of No. 6)

Street Style for the Weekend

I simply love this photo. Maybe because she's so deceptively casual in her white tee, skinny jeans, and oversized blazer. Maybe it's because I own the very same Ray Ban wayfarers and there's an ounce of practicality to her outfit. I could see myself wearing the exact same thing on a regular Wednesday. Hell, I even already own almost everything she's wearing. I just may need some awesome peep toe wedges like hers to complete the look. Looking at this picture makes me think of a convo I was having with a few special ladies the other night at dinner. Sometimes it's not a matter of having the right things, but figuring out how to put them together. Which, by the way, i expertly suck at. So, stay tuned for some posts on what to wear here, there, and everywhere in between, and how to put together those "outfits" that work time and time again. We all have that go-to look that makes us feel like a million bucks (and stand just a little bit taller), so why not learn how to make just a few more.

(photo: courtesy of Vanessa Jackman)

Playing Dress Up

So I have some dresses narrowly crammed into my closet that haven't been getting much attention. I have become a bit more shy in my old age and think that they show too much skin.  I'd probably only wear them half covered by a blazer or cardigan and I never even get that far. So seeing this interview and inventive styling with Katie Holmes gave me some ideas. Pairing even a fancy pants cocktail dress with a plain, contrasting t-shirt or tank can turn something you never thought you could wear into everyday apparel. I'm not going to wear a dress like this to work, but for a night out, one of those black dresses that's been collecting dust may just see the light of day. A black strapless dress with a cute, contrasting striped tank could look great, or an army, fitted tee with an old dusty pink number that I haven't worn in years. Looks like a second life could be near. (Disclaimer: As much as I rally against celebrity fashion, sometimes--just sometimes---(and with the help of an awesome stylist), you just might get an idea or two.)

(photo: courtesy of Marie Claire)

And Yet Another...

I mean, really? Do we really need another style book by yet another self-proclaimed style "expert"? I am the first person to tell you that I love L.C. I think she has emerged from the whole Laguna Beach/The Hills craze with poise and has branded herself impeccably well (not to mention avoided the curse of Speidi along the way). But I really don't think I (or any other young woman) has a lot in common with her. I may have the same goal of looking cute and stylish but our budgets vary just ever so slightly and I am guessing she has access to celebrity stylists at a time when my only stylist is myself. So I'm not telling you to boycott the book because I am pretty certain that I'll flip through it next time I wander through Barnes & Noble. But here's to finding a style guide or guru who's just a little more like us. We may all want real style, but at the end of the day, we're all just real girls.

(photo: courtesy of Amazon.com)

Buttoning Up

Like every normal clothes lovin' girl, nothing is as exciting as wearing something new for the first time. So now that fall is here, and it's time for me to bring my trusty wool blazer back into rotation, I have to admit I am experiencing some fatigue. I know it's great and I know I'll wear it, and I best not be buying a new one, but I just crave something new. So what's a girl to do? Get savvy, that's what. I've decided the black buttons that came with the jacket just won't do this time around and I'm on the hunt for some jazzy gold ones. I am going to scour a few button stores over the weekend and see what I can come up with--and while I'm at it, I'm going to see if anything else in my closet needs a little sprucing up. It's such a quick--and inexpensive--trick, and it's like uncovering a whole new piece. I'll reinvent what I can and let it remain a budget-friendly activity that I can go crazy with. Hoping it does the trick, since this blazer (a definite investment piece and classic) is here to stay.

(photo: courtesy of Claire Grove)

Petit Bateau'ing

Remember the days when any one of your friends who went to France came back with a pile of Petit Bateau shirts and each one was the equivalent of like $10? Oh the good ole days. So while they're still pretty reasonable in France, we can now scour their stateside stores for their soft cottons. But as I've gotten older I realize that the t-shirts that I used to wear are a bit too clingy for my tastes of today and I want another way to keep the brand in my life. Stopping into their new Beverly Hills location, I realized their plain white crewneck tees may be a thing of the past, but their bateau striped tees are the real deal (I know, I need to stop). Looser fits, and a range of stripe colors means that I can continue to nurse my addiction. The most surprising? Their sleepwear and camisole and boyshort sets are adorable. They're super soft, cute, and a nice antidote to my tank top and sweats bedtime attire. Glad to have found them once again and rediscovered a dear old ami along the way.

(photo: courtesy of Petit Bateau)

Jotting It Down

Part of me wishes I carried a digital camera around with me for all the times during the course of the day when I come across something that I have to remember. But then the other part of me remembers that I would instantly break it in my bottomless pit of a bag. So what's the next best thing? I always always always have a small notebook with me to jot things down, coming up with scribbles and notes on a near hourly basis. So when you whip the notebook out, it helps if it looks particularly cool, and if Marc Jacobs designed it, well then it's just as chic as your handbag. My awful mini spirals don't quite work, but this Marc Jacobs meets Moleskin collaboration is great. Fashion editors sit front row at fashion shows writing notes in their leather-bound journals and this one looks so nice that I just may actually treat it kindly and keep it for a while. After all, there'll never be a time when I'll be without my notebook since you never know what you may see.

(photo: Courtesy of New York Magazine)

Come Sail Away With Me

Looking at my closet and it's become pretty clear that I've gotten a bit carried away by the whole bateau stripe trend...you know that whole navy and white striped amazingness. I can count four striped tops (and that's just on the left side of my closet). I guess I've just found something that works and I've stuck with it. Whoever said that you shouldn't wear horizontal stripes didn't get the memo. So even though I love my striped shirt best with some loose-fitting boyfriend or white jeans for summer, this dressed-up version shows me that I can actually keep wearing them through fall. The best news? I can even dress them up and wear them out when I need a nighttime look. This souped-up version is very glam without being too outright sexy. It has that French gamine quality to it that is subtly perfect. I am even thinking of buying another one of my J. Crew striped favorites and adding some embellishments to the collar. Think of it as a high-quality bedazzling, with grommets or some metal details. It would eliminate the need for a necklace and dress the shirt up in an entirely original way. Bottom line: those striped shirts are here to stay...for a while.

(photo: courtesy of Shopbop)

Gone to London Town

So now that New York Fashion Week is over, the masses have headed across the pond to take in London Fashion Week. The difference? For every plain pair of jeans and white t-shirt here, there's some great prints and patterns that would love downright bold here in the states. Now I'm not saying you should go out and buy a Union Jack to wear plastered across your chest. But, like I've said before, looking at what they wear in other countries can be a great source of inspiration for your daily wares. These graphic prints are way bolder than what I'd normally be comfortable in, but looking at these shots shows me how it's done. Maybe I can incorporate a print or two into a scarf or blouse to start off small and within my comfort zone. It'll challenge me out of my ordinary uniform of solid colors and maybe--just maybe--set me apart from the crowd. So I'll use this as just a little itty bitty building block of my own, unique style.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

Color Me Camel

So word on the street is that camel is the new black. That's right, everyone wants some great camel coat for fall. But what's a girl to do when she lives in L.A. and doesn't really want one of those knee-length numbers to cramp her style in sunny SoCal? I have to readjust what I see to fit my needs and my style. So instead of finding a heavy duty version that's a little too New York ladies who lunch, I am on the hunt for something short, more spirited, and with a bit of a preppy playfulness. Enter this great toggle coat from Urban Outfitters. The price is absolutely right and it's got some great details on it that let it stand apart from the crowd. I can wear it through fall, and pair it with some great plaids, scarves, and knits for when the temps get even cooler in winter. It's the perfect way for me to interpret the camel trend. It's just important to identify what you need and want first to find what suits you and your style best.

(photo: courtesy of Urban Outfitters)

Just one of the guys...

Talking to one of my friends the other day and she wanted some styling advice (boy, do I have her fooled!). Given her petite frame, I knew exactly where to direct her. I envisioned her with a bit of preppy flair, pairing some skinny jeans with a great scarf, some flats, and a classic blazer for day or night. Her first stop? The boys' department. If I had a slight build, I'd race to Crewcuts or Brooks Brothers to check out what they had on the racks for the kiddos. I even love a cropped sleeve, so the shorter, the better. Seeing as I'm not petite, I won't make it to find that boys' blazer, but you may just find me scouring the racks of the men's department. I'm in the market for an oversized flannel to wear all belted up for fall. Thinking a men's sized small or medium may just work out perfectly.

(photo: courtesy of Brooks Brothers)

Nordic Track

In my endless quest to find more and more cool places to find inspiring style, I figured I might as well look overseas. I can spend hours at the newstand pouring over the pages of international editions of my favorite magazines because the content is always intriguingly different. It opens your eyes to cool new styles and designers and trends you might not have ever seen. What's even cooler is you can then be the first ones to translate the trend to your city, group of friends, or what have you. With street style blogs all the rage, this one from Stockholm always turns up on my radar because of how awesome the subjects are. You can find pics from abroad practically anywhere these days and look at cool new color combinations or unusual textures or just style you have never seen before. All it takes is one quick glimpse to be inspired. A personal fave below. Check it out....

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

It's a Tie

Walking through J. Crew over the weekend, I stopped to look at what all the mannequins are wearing. They've become pretty great at expert styling and I love seeing what they've layered together (it's always unexpected). I saw one mannequin out of the corner of my eye, with a denim chambray shirt all buttoned up, tucked into a tweed skirt, with a belt double looped around the waist. But that wasn't that interesting. They had paired it with a bowtie. Now back when I was younger (and I'd like to think too young to know the difference), I let my mom convince me to wear a men's tuxedo to a family friend's bar mitzvah. It was black just like everyone else's, but mine had a hot pink bowtie and cumberbund. I still look back in horror, but think that although it was poorly executed at age 10, a bowtie on a woman may not be half bad. I think if I had to do it now, I'd would mix the masculine bowtie with more feminine pieces just for effect. I'm not exactly lining up to try it out (still pretty scarred from the first bowtie experience), but it's fun to see how awesome it looks when it's done right.

(photo: courtesy of FashioneseDaily.com)

Belting It Out

One of my least favorite magazine features (I'm serious, I hate it), is the "Dress For Your Body Type" that every magazine from InStyle to Lucky uses in nearly every issue. I'm definitely not long and lean, and I don't think I'm pear shaped, so how am I supposed to figure out what to wear and how to wear it if I can't figure out what body type I am first? I look at their options and every time I settle on the fact that I'm a rectangle...it's the only shape that seems to make any sense. So I used to wear waist belts with dresses back in my fancier New York days, but wearing them now with my somewhat waistless body seems like an odd pairing. Instead, I've found this great skinny belt that wraps around twice, and manages to give every single look such polish. I particularly like wearing the belt wrapped twice around my cardigans for fall, since it lets me pretend that I have some shape. I found an alternative that worked for me and I didn't have to listen to some dumb magazine article that didn't make sense to me. Well played, Lex. Well played.

(photo: courtesy of Jenni Kayne)

Shopping Your Closet

So I'm probably just like you. Most mornings, I stand in front of my closet and despite it being overdue for a little spring cleaning, I convince myself that I have nothing to wear. Admitting that this is WAY far from the truth, I decided to challenge myself to shop my closet, just like all those savvy recessionistas have been doing. And then I came across this picture from Fashion Week. Impeccable timing if I do say so myself. Those light-wash jeans that have been taking up space may actually be wearable after all. I was kind of hesitant to get rid of them altogether so I told myself that they were a summer jean. But paired with camel, they're all about fall. Seen here with some dark accents, I realize that once again, I had it all wrong. Those light jeans are safe for the time being and I get away scott free without having to buy a new pair. Thank you NYFW for the inspiration! 

(photo: Vogue.co.uk)

Gone Camping

The funny thing is that if you know me, you know I'm never going to go camping. But if I did, at least I know exactly what I'd wear. This fun, knit saddle bag could hold a swiss army knife and maybe some matches--but would definitely look cute doing it. The combination of the textured print and striped shoulder strap gives it that camo feel that strangely goes with anything. The fair isle sweater could keep me warm and cozy with a print that screams winter. Though you might not think that the two go together, I think if you wore them together with a great pair of worn in jeans, you'd be able to nail the look (even if you never make it camping!).

(photo: courtesy of Shopbop)

Beverly Hills, what a thrill!

With the army trend raging on (I'm guilty, too), I thought of a particular lady who was ahead of the times with her fashion prowess. Phyllis Neffler got it right, taking the oversized fatiques from days past and turning them into tailored, fitted fashions with cinched waists and contrasting fabrics for flair. So if you're looking for a little sartorial inspiration this weekend, or just want  a new idea for that army jacket that's been collecting dust in your closet, leave it to the leader of Troop Beverly Hills to get the job done...in style.

(photo: screengrab from Troop Beverly Hills)

Winter Florals

If any of you reading this are die-hard fashion fans you'll know this pic is old, but forgive me for a sec while I try and make a point. I used to hate florals. I thought they were only appropriate in spring and summer and even then it was a stretch for me. But seeing florals paired with dark, thick knits on runways and editors and everywhere else, I realized that maybe, when it came to florals, I was all wrong. I guess part of it is that I'm not quite ready to retire some cute floral dresses I have from summer, and so I'll be pairing them with those thick Falke tights I've blogged about, an oversized cardigan, and cinch it all with a great brown belt. With a bit of floral peeking out, it'll be an unexpected touch that only I'll have. Reconsidering the ordinary, I may just have stumbled upon something great.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

Socks + Loafers

So I already told you that it's possible to wear tights and open-toe shoes (I know---the horror!), but I've got another one up my sleeve that you can challenge yourself with this weekend, season, or whenever. It's something that I've been seeing that I may just have to try: socks and penny loafers. You can find the socks anywhere, doesn't matter the color, though I'm on the hunt for a thin, grey pair for myself (they should hit just above the ankle). The penny loafers? While I may be dreaming of Miu Miu's studded version, I'll probably end up with a more practical pair like ones from Bass. But no matter where they're from, I'll still be able to rock the look--preferably with some cropped pants or a cute mini. Sounds like a perfect alternative to all the boots I'll be wearing all too soon.

(photo: courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue)

Can we hang out?

I am pretty sure if I saw this gal in the street, that's what I'd say...is that weird? She's just got such a cool look that it's hard not to want to be her new BFF. First let's start with the obvious. She's wearing a sweatshirt. Sensing a trend here? But her sweatshirt has got some pretty cool embellishments on it that's like a souped-up version of bedazzling. All of a sudden it makes my bum-around-the-apartment essential a little more appropriate for the outside world. Her skirt is anything but ordinary too, with an uneven hemline that is unusual and just original enough for me to want it immediately. The shoes? They're awesome. Large, clunky, and the type that every girl loves and every guy thinks is ugly. (For some reason I always end up liking those best.) So, thinking we should hang out. Next week at Le Pain? Sounds great! See you then...

(photo: courtesy of Mr. Newton)

Those Classic Must-Haves

Nina Garcia is all about the top 10 items that every woman must have in her closet. The list has a little black dress, classic bootcut jeans, and other items that (let's be honest) don't necessarily work for every woman. I think it's about finding the items that work best for you--not everyone else. One of my foolproof items is a pair of Falke tights. Every time the temperature drops I reach for these and they always work. They let me keep on wearing my favorite spring and summer dresses and since I invested in a more expensive, quality pair, they've lasted for years. So Nina Garcia, I challenge you to find a more universal and versatile piece this winter season. My wool tights are def top 10.

(photo: courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue)

Are you a fan of fur?

I've been seeing a whole lot of fur these days practically everywhere I look. Seems like everyone has a hot new fur vest and every mannequin I come face-to-face with has some fur draped somewhere. And Peta, my apologies ahead of time, but I definitely would consider wearing some sort of fur design this coming winter. I think a whole fur coat may be too much for me so I am trying to figure out how to incorporate the trend into my look, my style, and my budget. Bottom line: it has to work for me. So instead of investing in some elaborate fox jacket, I am thinking maybe a fur scarf may be a good starting off point. This delicate fur-trimmed scarf lets me wear just the right amount--the amount that works for me. I'm not going to wear that fur vest because everyone else is, but instead I'm going to find a way to make the trend mine.

(photo: courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue)

Falling Hard for Fall Accessories

One of my absolute favorite things about fall is the accessories. Namely, my scarves. I've acquired quite a collection over the years, everything from a cashmere magenta one from J. Crew to a leopard print one I found online. They're kind of like my style secret weapon because they let me get away with wearing the same thing through fall and winter (basically some version of a white t-shirt every day) and yet I can dress-up or accessorize my look just by switching out the scarf. I've become fairly proficient in my scarf hunting over the years and have found a new favorite in Madewell's colorful versions. J. Crew has some awesome merino scarves for fall in their perfectly preppy prints and Yarnz's paisleys and knot details lets you wear them a variety of ways and really accent all the dark colors that fall inevitably brings. Stock up for the season, I'll be right behind you....

(photo: courtesy of Yarnz)

What We'll Wear this Spring

One of my favorite things about looking at pictures from Fashion Week is getting a glimpse at what's going to be big for Spring. It may seem forever away, but I guarantee you it'll only be a matter of time that you'll be seeing some of these designs up close and personal. After spying the Charlotte Ronson collection I started counting down until these clothes hit stores around February. They have a nice balance of sweet, delicate materials and tough edges like biker boots and beanies, and I've got a sneaking suspicion that she may be onto something. Her mixing and matching different prints? I would have never considered it myself, but seeing it done so expertly, I want to try it out myself--and immediately. The best part? This is just the beginning. Loving all my Fashion Week pics! Keep 'em coming!

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

Style Muse

Sometimes you come across a girl who is so amazingly stylish that they become your unofficial style muse. I have a few friends who fit the bill and I not so secretly stalk their outfits and try and steal cues that I can use myself. Alexa Chung is one of these girls. She manages to pair up-to-there cutoffs with a shiny satin blouse and somehow it works--and spawns a thousand copycats. So since she's designed a line of clothes for Madewell, J. Crew's supremely affordable little sister, everyone looking for a little guidance is making a beeline to the store. Her peter pan colors remind me a bit too much of my elementary school uniform but the other princess details are just right for a few inexpensive pieces to add to other basics for fall. 

(photo: courtesy of Fashionologie)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

So this post may be slightly biased because this pic is of my close friend Marina, but doesn't she look amazing? She's always been one of my style gurus and this pic I think shows exactly why. Her merino wool pants are comfortable like sweats but come across as tailored when paired with her structured bag. Her knit sweater looks like a wardrobe staple--comfortable, warm, and goes with anything. As for those leopard heels? They obviously look great. You might think that the different shades of grey, navy and leopard would clash, but thrown together, this easy outfit looks perfect. She makes great style look so effortless. Sigh! Marina reminds me once again that she could teach me a thing or two...

(photo: courtesy of StreetFSN)

I Can't Stand the Rain...or Can I?

So Hunter's Wellies have been all the rage for a while. Every fashionable lady has a pair (hell, even Kate Moss waded in the Glastonbury mud in hers). So I've figured that this was as good as raingear was going to get. But now I've seen that one of my absolute fave shoe designers, Loeffler Randall, has a pair of rain boots for the winter season. Their shoes have gotten a bit overpriced in my humble opinion, so these rubber boots have an enticing price tag that can't be beat. They're fashionable enough to wear all day long, and not as clunky as those normal knee-high versions. I can easily stash these lace-up booties under my desk when I get into the office...that is if ever want to take them off!

(photo: courtesy of The Los Angeles Times)

I Spy...

First there was MySpace, then Facebook, and now Twitter. Totally perfect places to see the different outfits that your fellow stylish friends are wearing and take some ideas for yourself. Teen Vogue dedicates a page in each magazine to their most stylish reader, WhoWhatWear has a MySpace Muse feature, and just about everyone is looking online to get some new, original ideas. Thanks to Twitpics, these cues are closer than ever. I love looking at Twitter to see the outfit pics that some uber-stylish ladies post. Rachel Zoe takes pics of hers and posts them on occasion, as does this certain Teen Vogue editor who details what she wears on a near-daily basis. It's not only fun to look at, but it gives you amaaaahzing ideas on what you may want to wear, too. It's just a matter of knowing where to look and you can find the coolest ideas that you have to try out for yourself!

(photo: courtesy of @evachen212)

Street Style Photo of the Day

One of my absolute favorite things about Fashion Week (which btw, is right now!!!) is seeing all of the street style photos that come out of it. Some of the most stylish editors strut their stuff through New York and we get to see their clothes--and most importantly take some style cues from the cool clothes they're wearing. Confession: I don't put stuff together all that well, so I look at these photos to get some great ideas. This photo of Shopbop's Style Director (no wonder I like it) has a '70s vibe. The high-waisted light-wash jeans are a dream and look like they're paired with my oh-so-fave Equipment blouse. The touches of brown leather and the stacked bracelets...utterly perfect. And that hat! Though I could prob never pull it off, I think it looks amazing on her. Makes me want to reconsider those skinny jeans that I've been wearing and try a pair like these. Well done, lady!

(photo: courtesy of Mr. Newton)

Making Menswear Work

I know what you're thinking. This is a blog about fashion and style for young women, so what is a dude doing here. Well, here's the thing, he may be a key to some great style tips. I was reading an interview with an uber stylish editor and she was giving her style tips for fall. She said something that made SO much sense. Some of her favorite pieces for the season are oversized blazers with the sleeves rolled all the way up. They're kind of boxy, but cinched with a belt and paired over a maxi skirt, they're a really unique look. She said her key to finding these oversized styles are waiting until the end-of-season sales roll around and snatching up men's blazers in the smaller sizes. Turns out they usually don't sell that well during the season so they're a ton left over for the sales. Buy a men's small or whatever size you may be, cinch the blazer and get a really unique look for fall--and beyond!

(photo: courtesy of Brooks Brothers)

Buy of the Day

I still regret not getting those Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent wedges that were on sale at Target last summer. They really were that great. This fall's can't-miss piece, the Tucker for Target collection that just went on sale. And this go around I am definitely not going to miss out. I've been loyal to Tucker's flowy camisoles for some time, and paid full price for the real thing back at Intermix months back. Now nearly identical versions are available at Target, and the best news is that they come in fun new prints and colors--SCORE! I can't decide between getting a new camisole or a tie-waist dress, but the easy fits are exactly what I am craving for fall. Paired with my skinny jeans and a blazer, they'll look nothing short of perfect...and look exactly like their full-priced relatives. Now that's what the democratization of fashion is all about! 

(photo: courtesy of Target)

A Little Weekend DIY

As I've admitted, I've become somewhat addicted to my army green purchases. These loose-fitting, perfectly comfortable army trousers are part of that long list. So now that summer's over, and I'm supposed to be packing them in, I'm having a bit of separation anxiety. The weather in L.A. is still mildly summer-like, but I know I should be all about shearling and knits. So here's an idea that all you DIY queens would be proud of. I'm going to pick up a pair of waffle long underwear, take both pieces over to my trusty tailor, and have him line my favorite pants with a little wintry element. Not only will they actually be warmer, but when cuffed they'll look perfect for fall--and beyond original. It's a great little trick to update your favorite summer slacks if you're stubborn like me and refuse to part ways. And depending on the lining (wool, knit, flannel, etc.) you can customize them to be entirely unique to your style. The more cuffed, the better! 

(photo: courtesy of Ron Herman)

Getting Collared

Button downs have always been a non-negotiable part of my wardrobe. In college it was the preppy Polo ones and for a while I've been relying on Steven Alan to give me that not too preppy button-down that I wear on end. Now I've added an Equipment blouse for a more nighttime button-down look. But no matter the style or designer, I always leave the top button (or two) open for a relaxed vibe. Fast-forward to me spying this great street style photo and I realize I may have to challenge that old rule. Sure I love wearing my big, chunky necklaces with an open collar, but I think that this buttoned-up approach may look even cooler. It's a fresh way to mix things up a bit, and challenge me out of my style comfort zone. I know it's usually a bad thing to be all buttoned-up, but I think this new look may shake things up a bit.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

The BEST People Watching

I went on and on a few weeks back about how much I love to people watch. It's without question one of my favorite past times and always always always leaves me with some great style tips that I want to try for myself. Reading one of my fave blogs yesterday (NY Mag's The Cut) and an interview with this trend forecaster (coolest gig ever) revealed that it's one of the ways she scours the globe for the next best thing. So I'm heeding her advice and jotting down some of her fave places for the next time I descend on the Big Apple in just a few short weeks. Hopefully in the meantime I'll rediscover some L.A. faves, but this list will be burning a hole in my pocket in the meantime...

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

Line I Love: Ash

Move over, Fiorentini & Baker, there's a new kid in town. I've been so busy wearing my flat motorcycle boots for the past few seasons that I haven't even averted my eyes, until I saw these beauties. I'm thinking of adding a little height to my look and the heel on these is just right. Ash's summer wedges for looked super cute on a friend of mine, and their various booties and shooties (forgive me, I hate the word, too), seem just right. Plus, the prices are quite moderate even though the shoes look like the best investment I'll make all season. Loving the line and hoping I see it in even more stores (Intermix has a nice selection right now). They're the kind of day-to-night designs I need and I have a hunch they'll be my go-to footwear for some time.

(photo: courtesy of Madison)