SPOTTED: New from Free People

It's funny, wrong or not, I usually think of Free People as a high school brand. They're pretty perfect for sunny SoCal but their boho-chic aesthetic reminds me of long days spent in the valley and my ever-evolving style as a youth. I am always quick to pass over their store and selection in any department store but the artistry of their latest lookbook caught my eye. Juxtaposed against New York's city streets, I all of a sudden am intrigued again by their loose fits and hippie prints. I kind of love the floppy hats and envision their designs fitting perfectly well at Coachella. May be time to reincorporate a few select pieces into the wardrobe. 

(photo: courtesy of Elle.com)

The Short Suit

I have never really been a fan of shorts, but lately the "it" thing has been reinterpreting the basic pant suit in a shorts version. I mean if I had legs like this, I would too. I love this fresh new version in a fun, almost dizzying print with crazy cool accessories (just look at those Miu Miu polka-dot heels!). I think I am such a huge fan because as great as this looks worn together--perfect for a fresh take on dressed-up occasions--that blazer would be a perfect wardrobe staple for many seasons to come and those shorts would definitely get their wear on a beach vacation or two. It's many outfits in one, which I can absolutely get behind.

(photo: courtesy of Mr. Streetpeeper)

Perfect Party Sneakers

I've always had somewhat of a soft spot for Keds. They're just so Baby in Dirty Dancing and represent such simpler times in my childhood. That's why I'm jazzed that Suno, the brand that does these amazingly fresh ethnic prints has come up with their own iterations of the canvas lace-up and slip-on classics. I see these being favorites through Spring and Summer with skinnies, boyfriend jeans and pair of white jeans imaginable. Plus, can't you just see them with your favorite LBD? Perfection.

(photo: courtesy of LA Times)

Expect the Unexpected

I think that one of the things that I say over and over again is that if you're going to wear the same conventional designs as everyone else, you might as well go for different shapes and textures to make them you're own. This new leather version of an anorak is pretty fresh. I even love the way it gathers like a classic nylon one we're used to sporting. In blue leather it's all of a sudden dressed up and new. I've never seen a version like this before but it looks like it just stepped off the runway which is just about perfect for me. Frankly brilliant.

(photo: courtesy of Style Bubble)

How To: Incorporate Neon Into Your Look

As far as I am concerned, neon is quickly becoming a neutral. It's one of those shades that will just never go out of style. And if you think it's only made for days spent in the sun and hours baking on the beach, think again. This great outfit shows how you can wear the shocking hue with some of Winter's best darker shades, plaids and still look pretty damn good. I think the darker the contrast the better, because then the neon really pops. I particularly like the look of the neon yellow against the almost tartan plaid for something you absolutely wouldn't expect (though it's kind of very J. Crew these days). Great little extra accessorizing tip to add into your arsenal.

(photo: courtesy of My Style Pill)

DIY: Embellished Shoes

Here's a somewhat easy step-by-step in case you want to get crafty over the holidays and recreate Miu Miu's amazingly jeweled heels for a fraction of the cost. Kinda looks fun...

(photos: courtesy of Honestly WTF)

All-Natural Skincare

I know I really know nothing about most things but I've been on a new natural skincare kick that has gotten me quite obsessed. I spend most of my time smelling the original musk and coriander lotions at Kiehl's, but when it comes to buying time, I'm trying to go paraben-free, which means I'm loading up at Whole Foods actually. This new-to-me line, Ren Skincare has become a favorite. The sweet, natural smells are just that-- you just know no chemicals have been used. I feel great every time I slather on my new serum or a radiance mask and feel good about buying the products too. I'm also really loving Weleda, also Whole Foods available. Seriously guys, get on the wagon. Loving the ride.

(photo: courtesy of Into The Gloss)

Great New Color Combination: Poppy and Purple

In looking at the dresses coming out for a sun-drenched Spring, I'm already delighted by the rainbow palette of colors. But I think what I love most is seeing unexpected pairings of colors that I would never think or consider putting together myself. This combination of a bright, almost citrus-y yellow with a beautifully rich purple (not too violet) is just right. It's really vibrant and saturated and makes the clothes stand out, even if the purple shoes are strappy sandals. I love the combination of the two and the way they work together. Looks nearly straight off the runway.

(photo: courtesy of 9to5chic)

Holiday Dressing: Keeping Things Festive

There's something about getting dressed up for holiday parties that makes the endless shuffle seem all of a sudden worth it. This gorge number from Tibi screams holiday with its metallic sheen and darling brocade that I could see wearing all year round. Paired with some long necklaces in a complimentary gold hue and I think the mixed metals would be a nice touch. I love the look of opaque black tights against the dress and black booties to create an element of edge against the demure silhouette of the dress. It's holiday dressing done right, courtesy of Tibi!

(photo: courtesy of Tibi)

Great Holiday Gift Idea

Hurry up, it's not too late. I happen to have a soft spot in my heart for British brand Mulberry. They have this amazing, thick coffee table book that is a colorful and beautiful book celebrating the brand's wonderful 40 years in business. It shows the history of the bags, their craftsmanship and much much more and if you're anything like me, it's an absolute collectible. I am absolutely fascinated by the read and guarantee anyone who loves fashion will be too. It may be too heavy to be a stocking stuffer, but it will sit nicely under any tree this time of year.

(photo: courtesy of Net-a-Porter)

Spotted: Iris Apfel for MAC

I've known about her for a while because one of my fave jewelry designers (Alexis Bittar) always sports her as arm candy to awards shows. Uptown society lady Iris Apfel (pictured) is all the rage these days, so much so that MAC has teamed up with her on a new makeup collection that I promise appeals to every generation. Just take a look at the pic. Is it not the coolest thing you've ever seen? Those glasses? I mean, come on. She's so damn cool. The collection is pretty red-heavy and includes all different types of products. It hits counters Jan 5th!

(photo: courtesy of Stylist)

A Favorite From Pre-Fall

Sometimes I like more than anything when a designer gets back to something that they really started out with, something they really are known for, and something that makes you think of them with every stitch. When I was looking at the Pre-Fall designs from Proenza Schouler the first thing that stood out for me was the fact that they went back to their original bustier silhouette from what seems like ages ago. But now it's been modernized in new fabrics, a bit of a sleeker cut and all of a sudden it's a fresh new take on what has become a signature of the design wunderkinds. I absolutely love how fresh it looks when paired with such a ladylike, textured fabric, suddenly becoming uptown meets downtown all at once.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

Watching Jenna Lyons Sketch

I couldn't quite figure out how to embed this cool new video-type thing, so follow this link to watch Jenna Lyons in her element sketching a dress for J. Crew. It's always inspirational to watch a genius at work and this gives us a sneak peek at the woman doing what she does best. Plus, it gives us another look at the lady who has really transformed the brand, which is chic in and of itself!

(image courtesy of New York)

Street Style Inspiration for the Day

I simply love this image for the proportions. The way she mixes the bulky sweater over a button down, the slim denim, cuffed just so just so that you can see the ankle booties, it's nearly perfection. I also love the way the different denim washes play on eachother. Any other way that sweater would be oversized and bulky but here it's all of a sudden so chic and stylish. So well done.

(photo: courtesy of Vanessa Jackman)

SPOTTED: Madewell for Spring '12

Taking a look at the latest from Madewell and I see glimpses of early Phillip Lim--and I like it! Love that beautiful green which is just beautiful, especially what we'll want when Winter begins to wane. These pics show Madewell's beautiful designs in a toned-down, casual way done the only way they know how. They're equal parts hipster, weekend and perfect for every day. I love that they scream California comfort and easy, breezy. Simply perfection.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

Great Gifting Idea

Anyone who knows me (and loves me) will make endless fun of the fact that I refuse to part ways with my bright orange Filofax. Even with my new iPhone, I can't quite make the switch to digital when it comes to my calendar. And in that vein, I like a good notebook just as well. J. Crew has just started carrying these wonderfully colorful versions just in time to stuff some stockings and with cute little sayings on front, they're perfect for my generation. I think they make a great hostess gift (a topic of tonight's dinner convo) and would be a great collectible to have on stand-by.

(photo: courtesy of J. Crew)

How To Wear: Leather Leggings

This time of year it's so easy to get in the rut of wearing leggings every day. Throw on a pair of boots and you're done. But if you're anything like me, you see one photo and you instantly regret it. I love this dressed-up version in leather, which gives you a nice simple Winter uniform for every affair in between. I also particularly like the length of the shirt she's wearing--it's not too short or too long. I would tend toward a much longer shirt for comfort and I think it'd be too bulky and a mistake. Also, once you add some more layers on top it balances out the sheen of the leather on the bottom making for near perfect proportions. A great look for the season.

(photo: courtesy of Song of Style)

SPOTTED: Pre-Fall from Rag & Bone

I have always had a soft spot in my heart for Rag & Bone. None of their clothes are too sweet, their blazers are killer and their denim fits me to a tee. I love seeing their latest designs because it always seems to be what I'll end up wanting months down the line. The latest they just showed during their Pre-Fall presentation (a small collection before the official Fall show) and I particularly love the colors. That rich red paired with an ice blue is fresh and so different than the navy I always wear. I love the way they turn tailored clothing on its head with great silhouettes and masculine-meets-feminine lines. There is nothing I don't like.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

One to Watch: Lana Del Rey

This has nothing to do with anything except for the fact that I think she's spectacular. I was lucky enough to see her perform the other night when the British brand Mulberry hosted her for an acoustic poolside session. Needless to say, everyone should download her music and follow her intently, she's poised to be huge. Plus, could she be any prettier?

(video: courtesy of YouTube)

How To Wear: A Sequin Skirt

It wasn't until I saw this street style photo last week that I remembered that I actually have a sequin skirt in my very own closet and since it's actually the holiday season maybe I should take it out and actually wear it. Ages old and from J. Crew, it's itching for another round of wear and looks particularly chic when muted with a chambray shirt, schoolboy, shrunken blazer and booties (penny loafers are an adorable alternative too). If you're going to go for the glitz, keep everything else pretty undone, otherwise you'll look too much like tinsel--especially this time of year.

(photo: courtesy of New York Magazine)

New Blog to Bookmark: Ripplustan.com

The always lovely, ever-chic Jenni Kayne has already conquered the realm of effortless designs. Now she's letting us into her world of entertaining, home, cooking and kid-friendly secrets with her just-launched blog, Ripplustan.com. Filled with stunning photos and an insider lens into her best kept tips and know-how. If you've ever been into her store or seen how she flawlessly executes a dinner party or cooking class, Jenni's taste is flawless and now we all have access to get there, with a little bit of Jenni's help along the way.

(photo: courtesy of Ripplustan.com)

A Visit to Valentino

This is something completely unique and different so I figured I might as well share it with you all. The Valentino movie, The Last Emperor, has become one of my all-time faves. It endears you to the designer so much that you begin to think of him as adorable and just want to be his pal--which I know is never going to happen. This new online museum allows you to take a virtual look inside his archives and get a first-hand look at all of his amazing archives, which is why I found the movie so special. It's a trip to Rome without the cost of a ticket and a chance to get up close and personal with some real spectacular show-stoppers.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

So apparently while I was sick and busy hibernating, the tastemakers were in South Beach at Art Basil last week looking all cool and stylish. Of course the street-style photogs hit the pavement and got some cool shots of those interminably cool ladies that just make you swoon. If I could look like anyone, I am pretty sure it's her. I mean could she be any more chic? I love that there' such a timelessness about her outfit. I could see wearing those shades and those fits and those pieces for seasons to come, which makes it all the more appealing.

(photo: courtesy of Vogue.com)

In the Clutch

I have to tell you, I bought one of Clare Vivier's brilliant blue foldover clutches at some point last year and without fail, every time I use it, someone compliments me on it. It's this gorgeous Yves Klein blue that is a little brighter that plain old Royal and is a floppy shape that just gets better with age. Now the LA native has gone and collaborated with Refinery29 to offer special holiday editions with neon racer stripes and cool leopard prints in 4 exclusive designs. I personally think a girl can never have enough of these day-to-night designs and I love their affordability. How could you not be sold?

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

Inside Chloe Sevigny's Closet

Chloe Sevigny definitely has a distinct style. I think you either love her or you don't, but I know that I'll take any chance to spy into her closet. The uber-cool folks at Opening Ceremony did just that (makes sense they got the access since she designs a line for them and I love this little glimpse into her quirky, yet somehow impeccably styled world. Take your own peek inside.

At Home with Chloë Sevigny: Part 1 from Opening Ceremony on Vimeo.

The Art of the Side Barrette

My hair is in this awkward growth phase and while I still think it's super short, it's not. I've never worn a barrette this way, sweeping around the side just so, but I think I really like it. There is something that's really delicate about the placement and I like that an embellished barrette is a welcome additional accessory if you do it right. Try keeping the hair loose, sweeping it back, but leaving the ear still covered with hair. Secure the barrette just where the top of your ear is and the effect is very feminine, reminds of Virgin Suicides in the best possible way. Try it next time you go out, I promise compliments.

(photo: courtesy of Jazzi McG)

New From TOMS Shoes

I am actually in the market for a new pair of TOMS Shoes and when I stumbled across this embellished pair I got giddily excited. You see just about everyone has the navy (or grey) pair I used to have. I mean they sell them at Whole Foods. But no one I know has a velvet pair with a crystalline skull and cross bones on them. I've been looking for velvet flats and these may just take the cake, what with their supreme comfort and do-good status. Well played, TOMS. You've done good. Literally.

(photo: courtesy of The Accidental Executive)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

My boyfriend jeans held firmly to their MVP status pretty much all Summer long. But their many gaping holes and loose fit meant that as soon as it got a bit cooler I stashed them away for something with a bit more coverage. Seeing this picture means I want to pair them with thick chunky knits and velvet slippers for a Fall appropriate look. I think if I do it right (aka wear a sweater long enough to cover at least some of the holes) and mix textures (darker knits and dark velvet slippers with the lighter denim), the look can easily transition seasons. What say you?

(photo: courtesy of Atlantic Pacific)

New Jewelry Line: Anndra Neen

You know when you hear a word for the first time and then all of a sudden you hear it everywhere? Well that's what's been happening with me and this new jewelry line, Anndra Neen. It's inspired by the designer sisters Mexican City roots and has this wonderful South of the Border feel with sterling silver and great intricate details. I literally love every single piece I see, from jewelry to bags and they all are complementary so they can be worn together. Love the line and thought you should know about them, too.

(photo: courtesy of Kirna Zabete)

HEARD: Marni for H&M

I know, you haven't even gotten over the frenzy that is their Versace line. But just today they announced the latest collaboration. They've teamed up with Marni, the endlessly cool Italian brand that is geometric, oversized and fabulous all at once. Just trust me on this. Catch this brand new video of the designer discussing the collab.

(Video: courtesy of H&M)

Inspired By: Designer Decor

Speaking of design, I have always had an affinity for a one miss Aerin Lauder. These new pics of her Hamptons home show an attention to design detail that can't be matched. Yes, it is matchy matchy but it's done in such a way that it's utterly timeless. I love that the same fabric is woven through every piece of the bedroom. The effect is nothing short of pure perfection. It's overdone to the point of being brilliant. 

(photo: courtesy of Vogue.com)

SPOTTED: New Kelly Wearstler Boutique

If you're in LA, boy do I have a treat for you. The design doyenne, Kelly Wearstler has opened up a shop to show all of her wares under one roof. Now if you're in NY, you're prob familiar with the glam job she did with the space at Bergdorfs. The new store on Melrose is just as glam, with an expanded collection of her jewerly, clothes, handbags, home goods and just about everything else. Plus, you can take a walk inside and just get inspired right then and there. It's that good.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

SPOTTED: Chic New Flats

I think flats can be hard. You want them to be completely functional and comfortable but when it comes time to going out, you want something sparkly and chic, too. And often times those two don't come in the same pair. This sparkly pair is perfectly holiday in spirit. The rhinestone bows are whimsical no matter the season and the t-strap are pretty out of the ordinary--very different than the basic black Repettos that I have come to love and rely on day after day. Instead of wearing heels like everyone else come holiday fêtes, go for embellished flats. It's an unexpected treat.

(photo: courtesy of Net-a-Porter)

How To: Display Jewelry in a Cool, New Way

I came across this inviting image of a jewelry display and I had to bookmark it as a lovely new idea. It comes across as equal parts jewelry store and museum, and I've actually seen this bell jar method used in boutiques and even Anthropologie, letting customers get an all-angles look. I love the balance of the soft sand at the base and the rich metal textures. The branches help add height and wood bases are an excellent way to put all your rings, say, on one plane. I think this is so unique and a visually stunning way to see what you have--while inviting everyone else to take a glimpse, too.

(photo: courtesy of The Coveteur)

How to Wear: Sheer Tops

So more and more I'll absolutely love a top and then I'll pull it out from the rack and realize it is entirely sheer. But maybe there's a way to wear sheer shirts and blouses while still being tasteful and I think I just realized what it is. Take this photo as an example. If you're not going to cover up with a sweater or blazer, I say go for a bra or undergarment that is almost retro in shape and structure. Her bra looks almost '50s swimsuit. It covers way more skin and reaches a bit lower on her abdomen, giving her a bit more coverage and striking a nice balance against the sheer top. Going for something a bit more conventionally covered is not what we're used to--or inclined--to do, and so I think it's actually quite striking underneath something sheer.

(photo: courtesy of The Sartorialist)

Wish List: Oversized Cuff

I just decided I am going to start a holiday wish list on this blog because I think it will be kind of fun, and if anything, will give some people out there some fun gift giving ideas in time for the holidays. This I came across from Teen Vogue and it's actually from Mango. What? Yes, Mango. I forgot that store existed since I was in Europe in 2001 but how cute is this cuff? Very Fenton/Fallon. I would actually get one and either wear two piled on one wrist or wear one on each wrist for symmetry sake. It looks cute and un-Mango, like Meaning? I like!

(photo: courtesy of Teen Vogue)

If it's Perfect for Pippa...

And I do mean that Pippa. Finally, at long last, the dress that Pippa wore to the royal wedding is available for purchase. Granted it's for some reason only available to Net-a-Porter's UK customers, but that said, it's still finally here! It's missing some of the lace detail at the sleeve, the beautiful buttons down the back and the train, but the bias cut and elegant cowl neck are all in tact. I double dog dare anyone to wear this dress, because I think it just simply cannot be done. And the white, it's just too unforgiving. But oh, what a challenge!

(photo: courtesy of Net-a-Porter)

Into the Gloss...And her Style

I've become a huge fan of this blogger/stylist/overall NY fashion extraordinaire. She has an amazing beauty website that has gained a cultish following and now she's taking her connections to the next level by giving us a bit of an inside look at everything she does...and I'm hooked. I think she's super chic and she promises to let us into her world of beauty. So why wouldn't we oblige?

Emily Weiss on La Mode La Mode La Mode from Into The Gloss on Vimeo.

How To Wear: Winter Shorts

One of the outfit choices that comes in on heavy rotation as it gets colder is winter shorts. The key is pairing a thicker/wintry material (think wools not khakis) and going for an opaque or textured tight with it. I personally love the look with ballet flats since everyone else is opting for boots. Your best bet is to go for a short that isn't too short or too long, instead choose a length that hits mid-thigh which is actually the most flattering length. This way you can wear something other than pants even though the temperature is dropping. It's a fun new option to consider as it gets cold.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

So Maje

There were a couple of stores that last time I went to Paris I became totally enamored with. Kooples, Iro, Sandro, the list goes on. But one that set itself out from the pack was Maje. The good news for those stateside is that Bloomingdales has picked up the line and the brand has just opened its doors in Soho too. It's whimsical meets preppy, tailored yet untucked and full of peter pan collars and wonderfully vibrant hues. I simply love every piece. Particularly love this piece for a night out. It's not too dressed up, has just enough edge and isn't overly girly. Love.

 

(photo: courtesy of Maje)

Runway Inspiration: Letterman Jackets

One of the trends that made its way onto the runways this Fall was the use of college-inspired letterman's jackets and athletic jackets to keep things casual and structured as the temperatures dropped. I think it's hard to pull off the look without looking too juvenile and too casual--I automatically think jeans, tees and converse. So how to pull off the look? I say opt for a version with some leather or updated textures to make the silhouette new. If you're going to wear yours, wear it out at night instead of casual during the day. Pair it with tailored black paints and pointy black heels with maybe a decorative ankle strap for effect. The sleeker the the rest of your look the better.

(photo: courtesy of Hanneli)

How to Wear: Red Pants

As much as I long to wear chic dresses when I go out at night, the truth is that pants have served me well. I often end up in the same pair of tailored black trousers with an ankle length that let me showcase some of my favorite heels if my feet allow. So the more great pants I can find these days, the better. This pretty pic caught my eye for the vibrant color found straight off the streets of downtown LA (I swear). This FIDM student wears wide-legged pants in the most classic, simplistic way. Somehow they don't overwhelm here and because the rest of her look is so undone, it works. A reminder to bring some red into my look, especially as the holidays draw near, especially in the form of some totally chic pants.

(photo: courtesy of Racked LA)

Blog Roll: Street Style from Wharton

This just makes me happy as a former Penn grad, myself. Before I moved to Philadelphia, I had never seen Burberry, Longchamp or a popped collar. Penny loafers were a school uniform thing, not something you wore by choice, let alone Sperry top-siders, especially if you weren't on-deck. This fun new blog from Wharton students takes a cheeky look at the wonderful Wharton world of preppy style. I've already bookmarked it and can't wait to take a daily diversion back to Locust Walk and the chilly streets of Philadelphia...

(photo: courtesy of The Whartorialist)

SPOTTED: Club Monaco for Spring '12

Dear Club Monaco, I always say the same thing. You get me with your designs and I always say just how cute you look and then I kind of never visit your store. I am intrigued by your wearable neutral palette and the fact that everything is really work appropriate but could also double for going out without really having to change, which REALLY works for me. There are a lot of basics and simple shapes but maybe just maybe that is what Club Monaco does best. Updating the silhouettes we love--and rely on--and doing them in a modern new way each season.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

Fall's Marvelous Mani

I love getting a dark colored mani come Fall but I still find myself staring blankly at that wall of polishes every time I walk into the nail place. I want dark and then I wuss out and think I want something a bit more inventive. And yet I still come up empty handed. This picture is a great palette of inspiration for Fall with some awesome Autumnal hues that are spot on for the season. Rich with yellows and oranges and crisp reds, they're what you wouldn't necessarily expect and what I haven't really seen anyone else wearing. I say go for it, it's unique and different--and you can take it off it you don't like it.

(photo: courtesy of The Color Collective)