Going All The Way

As seriously as I may take myself sometimes (I am a Virgo, give me a break), I do envy those who can approach fashion with a bit of lighthearted whimsy. Looking at this double-breasted button down sweater at first glance and I'd say it's pretty over-the-top feminine. It's almost cutesy with the small sweet collar and poufy short sleeves. There's something very "young" about it. My immediate inclination would be to rough it up a bit. Pair it with some great flared denim, or even a leather skirt with booties. But this blogger takes it the completely opposite direction and wears a bow in her hair instead. I love that she does exactly the opposite of what I ever would have imagined and she pulls it off so well. Instead of adding a rough, masculine touch, she goes all out feminine and I think succeeds in a major way. So if you're wearing something uber-femme, why not go all the way? Rocking a blazer? Throw on a jeweled bowtie or collared necklace. I think the further you go, the cooler it can look--and the more successful you can be!

(photos: courtesy of Sea of Shoes)

How To Wear It: Stripes on Stripes

How amazing is this latest image to come from J. Crew. I particularly love the combination of stripes on stripes. The two terribly different patterns completely clash, but that's the entire point. It's such cool way to keep things interesting and to re-wear what you already own with things you would have never considered wearing them with (see: clashing floral prints). I think the brightness of the blue flats pops against the stripes and while they all kind of compete to grab your attention the effect is still somewhat muted. No crazy bright colors means that all these pieces (though all making somewhat of a statement) can peacefully co-exist in one single outfit. Yet again, they hit it out of the park.

(photo: courtesy of Le Fashion)

New Collar Necklace Idea

I don't think I'm the only guilt one. Everyone has been loading up their dresser with oversized statement necklaces for some time. Whether it's J. Crew for Fenton Fallon (my fave) or Dannijo, we've all got a sweet spot for something major. But I like that someone has come up with a wearable alternative. This lace-y collar is so unique and different and just a little bit man-reppeler. I would wear it over a all-the-way buttoned-up button-down so it wouldn't get lost. Or if you like to leave a few buttons undone, it gives a little bit of a eye-deceiving effect, creating a collar on bare skin, which could be cool, too. It's definitely an unusual piece of jewelry and a conversation starter if nothing else. Kind of love.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

I still own hardly any belts, but in my mind, my closet is chock full of skinny belts that wrap around twice or studded skinny versions to cinch all of the freeflowing day dresses (that I also don't have). Well, I've been so busy fixating on these skinny styles that I forgot that there were actually other options out there--and cute ones, to boot! I like the idea of the tassel swinging down the front of this skirt. I have amassed a few maxi skirts in the past year and wearing a belt with one is something I clearly hadn't quite considered yet. The tassel down the front is a super cute update to what I'd already been considering and definitely gives an extra bit of oomph to a plain tee or cableknit sweater. It's just a fun, different alternative that could be easily thrown into the mix! 

(photo: courtesy of Mr. Newton)

Must-Watch Video: Missoni for Target (Again)

I know. My obsession is next level. There is a countdown going on in my filofax leading up to the September 13 date when Missoni hits target. While I'm still busy figuring out exactly what I want to get (or the few things I don't actually want), I will distract myself with this cutesie video. I used to see Margherita Missoni all the time in NYC and track her every sartorial move. Hint: she was always enviably disheveled, mixing prints and plaids and knits in a way that I can only dream of. She narrates this adorable video that will have any Missoni fan chomping at the bit. La dolce vita indeed.

Fall's Hot New Print

I guarantee you are going to be seeing a lot of this print come Fall. The red and blue plaid is from the designer Thakoon and he's already created a limited-edition scarf, where proceeds go to charity. I really do love the idea of dressing something up that is inherently casual, like a my favorite Steven Alan button down with a major statement necklace and black slim pants or a worn-in sweatshirt paired with a pencil skirt and heels. Dressing up plaid is in the same vein and I love that this designer has updated some pretty classic silhouettes and dress shapes in this more casual print. It gives them a real youthful feel and makes them completely unorthodox at the same time. I don't know if the dress would be my thing but I do love it as a skirt or the scarf is still an awesome option, too.

(photo: Glamour Tumblr)

SPOTTED: Polishes for Fall

I'll admit it right here. The Muppets take Manhattan is one of my all-time favorite movies. There's just something about it, I can't quite explain. That's why I have watched every trailer that has been released for the new Muppets movie and followed the travails of Kermie and the Pig (btw, Miss Piggy is making a cameo on Fashion's Night Out at Opening Ceremony in New York). So they've teamed with OPI (which I think everyone does) to release some limited-edition polishes in time for the movie. They're all crazy sparkly and glittery but I think paired over a neutral shade for Fall, it might be a welcome alternative to what's usually in the mix. You can't look at them and not smile.

(photo: courtesy of OPI)

A Classic Revisted: The Peacoat

I remember one of the outfits I wore all the time sophomore year of college so well. I was very reliant on my peacoat that first semester and loved wearing a sweatshirt underneath so it peaked out. It was my way of looking every bit as preppy as the rest and adding a bit of street cred with the hoodie underneath. Needless to say I haven't really been able to wear a peacoat since but the designs from Jil Sander for Uniqlo remind me why I loved mine so much. Hers is such a delicious wool and cut that it screams for the streets of New York, but how to make it work in LA? I'd swap out the buttons for sure, and maybe add  on some kind of faux fur collar to give it a bit of flare. No matter, the cuts are timeless and seems like Uniqlo has some great bets for Fall.

(photo: courtesy of New York Magazine)

Fading into Fall

The Fall clothes are starting to burn a hole in my closet as the temperatures continue to rise and all I can think about are maxi skirts and sandals. But since I'm getting pretty comfy in my warm weather wardrobe, I'd ideally like to wear some of these things even when September draws near. This denim tunic for instance is perfect worn short and without pants for those steamy Summer days. But I'm thinking with some super skinny pants, you could wear it still in September with an oversized scarf and maybe some ankle boots. Same goes for all those light floral prints and white dresses. I think they're fair game come September and October, just by adding in some darker, richer accent pieces like wool, corduroy, knits, and deep colors like maroon, mustard, and rust. It's an easy way to extend the shelf life of what you already own, which I am ALL about these days.

 (photo: courtesy of The Sartorialist)

How to Wear it: Pom Poms

So I have been seeing this pom pom shoe just about everywhere. It's dressing up your average black-tie open-toe sandal with something just a little bit out of the ordinary. And these kind of froofy things are everywhere. A ton of jackets have big, fur and faux-fur sleeves and I'm trying to figure out ways to bring this look into my style vocabulary for Fall. Not sure the shoes are really "me," but maybe some accents on a skirt? Or in the body of a sweater, just no the sleeves? It's still a work in progress, but I know well enough to understand that wearing this trend in this exact way just won't work for me and my everyday appearance. Try and figure out ways to customize new trends for you, sometimes it's the only (reasonable) way to wear them.

(photo: courtesy of Shopbop)

It's all in the Details

Sometimes I really do like to think that it's all in the details. Case in point, my mixed-media jacket from last year. Mixed media means that it utilizes two fabrics (wool and leather) and I can honestly say that I have never in my life received so many compliments on a single article of clothing. I love little details like that, like a pocket made of leather seen here. It's so nice to have an unexpected update to something that otherwise would be straight off the shelves at your local J. Crew (not that there is anything wrong with that). I think if you're feeling particularly crafty, you can assign old clothes with new leather details (picking out the fabric for yourself), or just look for new designs with fresh accents. 

(photo: courtesy of Vanessa Jackman)

Lookin' Lady Lake

Though I may not be able to actually execute it well, the current cues for Fall are all ladylike trends. Take for instance these pics from H&M. Was with a friend the other night at the store and she managed to score some awesome finds, that paired with some nicer items, looked real "designer"--if that's what you're looking for. I am smitten with the unexpected pairing of tweed and leopard (I always struggle when it comes to wearing an old tweed blazer) and would definitely like something that makes me look this glam...If only

(photos: courtesy of H&M)

Overused Term: Arm Candy

If you read any blog these days, and I mean any blog, the latest phrase is arm candy. And I mean everyone is talking about it. It's how they're referring to stacks and stacks of bracelets that everyone is piling on and you know how I love me some bracelets. So I was really excited to see that the girls of Bauble Bar (from my alma mater, no less) are in the trend and they seem to be doing gangbusters, too. Take a look at the stacks they've got going. It's 100% worth checking out their site and I love the different metal finishes and types of bracelets they stack together. Tends to make things more interesting. Love just even looking at the picture as a way of seeing what I probably should be doing. My arm party hasn't been raging lately, so I think this may just get me back on the bandwagon.

(photo: courtesy of Honestly WTF)

SPOTTED: New from Club Monaco

So aside from the delicious news that Club Monaco is going to be launching e-commerce in a matter of weeks (following on the footsteps of Zara, many thanks), these latest images of their Spring '12 designs are equally dreamy. I know, Spring 2012 seems decades away but whether we like it or not, that's already on designer's radars (in fact, it's already been designed). My favorite part is to get sneak peeks like this and then see what pieces are there that I like that I can then incorporate into my look. Loving this navy version of a trench. I always find that khaki washes me out so maybe a navy or even an army green is a nice option for me. Plus, that drawstring leather skirt? Yummo. Great pieces that are every bit dreamy for me. Can't wait to see them on store racks!

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

SPOTTED: Lulu Frost for J. Crew

I think it's become pretty clear that J. Crew knows what they're doing in terms of jewelry collabs. I still treasure my Fenton Fallon for J. Crew crazy multi-strand necklace and I know quite a few gals who scoured the depths of Ebay to find an Eddie Borgo for J. Crew necklace. Now, Lulu Frost (a personal fave) is at it with a collection of brilliantly colored resin bangles and deco pendants that are very "estate sale" cool. I think the bangles would look rad stacked in a slew of different colors and her earrings look like they could have been your grandmother's fave pair. I'm placing bets that this will be another runaway success.

(photos: courtesy of New York Magazine)

Must-Watch Vid

These are quite possibly two of my fave fashion editors in New York. I am completely obsessed with their take on style and I love this cute little video they did on a shopping trip to Barneys. My favorite part? The way each outfit is styled with at least one different "angle" that I would have never thought to try on my own. Watch to see for yourself. 

Celestial Seasoning

I'm still busy obsessing over stripes, and just a few months back I told you that polka dots were the new stripes. Now I'm getting word that stars are the new print that I have to have. Which, frankly, is kind of blowing my mind. But I do love the celestial prints that are showing up all over. A black pretty blouse with some white or silver stars? A total beaut. A flouncy navy skirt with a little star pattern would be adorable with a chunky knit for Fall and the dresses that I've had my eye on were all inspired by the gorge iterations that came down the Dolce & Gabbana runway for Fall. Suddenly seeing stars isn't such a bad thing!

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

Wide-Legging It

Holy Canoli, look at these pants. I spent so many years focusing on skinny jeans. I remember my first pair, which was essentially bootcut, and it totally stressed me out. Then, the leg opening just kept getting narrower and narrower until I relied solely on my 10" J Brands. Now I'm all about the flares or wide legs and am appreciating every second of the comfort. These widleggers are perfect for Fall! They're the type of statement piece that you could build tons of looks around, whether you're dressing down in boots and a button down or up with a silk tank and heels. The color is absolutely gorgeous and the most beautiful hue for Fall. Plus, that velvet! It's so rich and luxurious and I'm thinking would be such a conversation starter. Such a vivid piece!

(photo: courtesy of Net-a-Porter)

New Color Combo (again)

Last week's cool color combo was mint green and crisp orange that transitions perfectly from Summer right into Fall. Today I got another new one that I may just like even more. Yellow (probably the softer the better--aka let's reserve mustards for later) with maroons and deep reds. The yellow is all about Summer and now you can keep wearing it right into Fall provided you swap out the shoes or accessories for something that is maybe suede or another Fall-ready catalog with a deep color that will make a statement for you. I have a pair of deep red shoes and now I am trying to figure out all the different Summer silhouettes and colors that I can wear it with. Navy is expected but pale pinks and yellows are just ideal. Very into this new color combo. Are you?

(photo: courtesy of Late Afternoon)

The Cold Shoulder

If you've seen me in the past few weeks there's a high probability that I've been wearing the same Equipment blouse every time. It's black silk and it's got the shoulders all cut out and frankly, I can't help it, I just get so many compliments that it's addictive. I'm now starting to see cutaway details everywhere and I'm wondering if I'm onto something. I love the way that it shows skin in the most unexpected way and still leaves you covered in all the places that keep you comfortable. I think with a button down it's ultimately unexpected but I think with a dress it's sweetly sexy too. I am starting to see it most everywhere and I can't say that I mind. First it was back cut-outs and now I think shoulders deserve their day out. 

(photo: courtesy of All The Pretty Birds)

GenArt Relaunches

I still stand by the fact that if you can "discover" a designer far before they've peaked, you're getting your hands onto something special. Think how crazy it would have been had you got a piece from Proenza Schouler's very first collection or a sweater from Alexander Wang back from when he used to do only knits. I mean, talk about investment pieces! Those are something special. So now that GenArt is relaunching, it's the perfect time to brush up on designers that you may just have to have. They're showcasing all these new designers that are definitely worth checking out. You never know, they could just be the next big thing. So whether you're scouring the local young designer mart (I have yet to find a good one in LA) or stumbling onto someone poised to pop, you could be onto something big.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

Not that I really know from first-hand experience but looking at this silhouette I am going to go ahead and say that a wrap skirt is a slimming essential. If you think about it, it's going to give you a narrow look because it's making you narrower--hence the wrap. I think I would probably think the tightness of it wouldn't be flattering but I appear to be oh-so-wrong. I think I'd also think of the wrap skirt as a kind of sarong or something that is a wraparound for Summer but in fun materials for Fall it could work any season. Think suedes, wools, knits, etc. I think as long as the material isn't too too bulky, the slimming effect is always on, which I think any girl can appreciate. Wrap away!

(photo: courtesy of Lucky Magazine)

At Anthropologie: Color + Print

A fun little video to start the week off right (forgive me, I'm feeling a bit un-inspired coming off a long, sun-drenched weekend). I love that Anthropologie is getting into the designer game. I must admit that I haven't been a huge visitor of the store since I left Philadelphia (which was quite a few years ago), but I know that they've been working their same magic. Even though I may have grown out of it, I still can be inspired to interpret what they're selling in my own way. Maybe this video will get me back into their stores after all (hint: their home + decor sections are killer!).

Rockin' the High Tops

I don't have much room for sneakers in my life now, but back in the day, Palladiums were it. I Remember having the fake kind for a while and then after a trip to Paris finally getting my paws on the real thing. I chose the creamy/beige and I remember creating outfits just so I could wear them. Now, according to my fave shopkeep Rachel, they're back...and she just so happens to be carrying them at her store, In Residence. Plus, look at this great street style shot take of a girl rockin' the high-top version in Stockholm. Apparently it's a worldwide sensation but still underground enough that you'll look pretty rad wearing them. I highly suggest them for anyone with a day-to-day casual look. With cropped pants, midi length skirts, and any floral dresses? Yes, please.

(photo: courtesy of The Sartorialist)

SPOTTED: Cute from Coach

I literally never go into Coach. I think there was a time when I was living in New York and I saw a pair of shoes on Mandy Moore, read that they were Coach, and without luck tried to find them. That was the last time. But then I was blindsided by a Coach ad today on the lovely blog Cupcakes and Cashmere and the cute blogger (who I read daily) goes through what they have on offer and lists her "picks." She picked this pair of metallic shoes and I absolutely love. I don't think they look very "Coach" but then again, what do I know. They just look downright adorable. I love the metallic and the platform means that my feet won't kill if I wear them. Totes cute, especially with the upcoming Fall and Holiday seasons. It's really never too soon!

(photo: courtesy of Coach)

Burgundy is the new Black

This compilation of photos said it best, "Burgundy is the new black for accessories." I am sure we all have more black shoes, clutches, and oversized handbags than we care to admit. And we swear, they all serve a different purpose. Those patent black heels are definitely different than the plain leather ones, right? I know, I do it myself...all the time. But what if we took a hiatus from all the black and instead chose to wear burgundy accessories instead. If you think about it, burgundy and deep wine colors probably actually go with more than black does. I'd love to see it with navy blue, charcoal greys, and even some taupes and earth tones for Fall. Forget black...it's boring and literally everyone else will be wearing it. Go for something unexpected and spice things up this Fall with something new.

(photo: Courtesy of Vogue.com)

New Color Combo: Orange + Mint

Simply put, this picture has no real relevance to me. But it did catch my eye when I saw how chic the unexpected color combo looked. That mint green color is a Spring and Summer staple, from nails to sweet chiffon designs. The orange is all about Fall with deep undertones and rich contrasts. Put together they are an ode to transitional dressing and they actually look quite nice together. I wouldn't necessarily do it the other way around though, aka I like the cableknit orange sweater on top and the flowy mint skirt on the bottom. I think each work perfectly in their designated shape here and I think the sweater is the perfect match to the breezy skirt. Structured meets flowy looseness is perfection...and executed so perfectly here!

(photo: courtesy of Lucky Magazine)

Mad Men for Banana Republic

I honestly don't know if I can get behind this Mad Men for Banana Republic Collection, but I am certain that I love anything that gets me one step closer to a designer (aka, Simon Kneen from Banana Republic and Janie Bryant, costumer for Mad Men). This video is short but sweet, and gives you a fleeting glimpse of what's in store. So if you're begging to channel your inner Betty or Don Draper, here's your chance. Classic suiting, tailored fits, and retro cuts. It's about to go mod.

An Indian Summer

I was just reminded that there are still 7 more weeks of Summer and I am embarassingly disappointed. I've been chomping at the bit for Fall and so 7 more weeks of sweating and showing more skin than I care to seems a bit excessive. So I'm curious how well I am going to handle these last few weeks. The lady at the nail place told me navy blue I chose was too dark for the middle of August and I have the urge to wear my brown boots--even if it's with a cute dress. This picture of a great dress makes me not so sad anymore. If I can find something like this, showing just the right amount of skin, in a perfectly flattering deep rose color, I could make it through the rest of August. Plus those polkadots are just so damn cute.

(photo: courtesy of Mr. Newton)

Pajama Dressing

Everyone is talking about "pajama dressing" right now and I can't quite seem to get behind the idea. The pants look insanely comfortable (I love me some pajama bottoms) but how to look "done" when you're wearing exactly that? Plus, the silk looks luxe and all, but I am the queen of wrinkles. How am I supposed to combat that issue? These kinda cute ones from Club Monaco make me realize that maybe the trend is worth trying. As long as I wear them with a blouse or top that doesn't look too much like a matching pajama top, I think I could wear it--and maybe even wear it well? Zara has some versions in those awesome colors they've been expertly executing lately, and I'm particularly fond of the elastic waist. What? I can't help it! I like the subtle pattern on here that is Summer friendly but would look equally gorge with an oversized rust or mustard yellow sweater come fall. I'd roll up the cuffs and wear a great pair of heels to dress up the look. What do you think?

(photo: courtesy of Shopbop)

Western Accent Pieces

Even though I still don't ever wear them, I'm oft busy extolling the virtues of a belt. They give you a waist where you don't have one and add a polished look to really any look. I love that this girl, spotted in Chicago over the weekend, resurrected an old school, Western-style belt here...silver tips and all. I think it's the perfect accent to the really feminine, flowy skirt and the soft brown and blush colors really go quite well together. I hadn't seen one of these in a while but it got me thinking of all the things that it would look so great with! Finish off the last days of Summer by looping this style of belt through faded jean shorts, or belt a longer tunic. Come fall, I think the silver is rich and far less expected than the gold accents that everyone is going to be after. Stand out from crowd and go after an oldie but a goodie.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

Fall's Color Palette

I know, I know, it's hotter than hell outside. You're lounging around in your bikini, or me in my Summer uniform of cut-up boyfriend jeans and a raggedy James Perse tee. But as much as I love these lazy Summer days, the OCD in me is ramping up, thinking about Fall. I'm trying to think of all the ways that I can use what I've loved about Summer and integrate them into the best Fall looks. The blushes and neutral tones that I have loved through Summer just got a little big deeper and more intense for Fall. Bright oranges go rusty, and citrusy lemon gets into a deep mustard hue. This color is a great representation of everything that is great about Fall. The reds, oranges and blushes are pretty much universally flattering so anyone can enjoy their depth, plus they're a bit more office appropriate than all the brights and neons that the warm weather necessitates. Go ahead, get ready for Fall!

(photo: Courtesy of Color Collective)

What to Wear: In Paris

It's gotten to the point where I'll literally tell anyone who will listen that I am going to Paris in less than a month. But just as important as the museum exhibits and boutiques I am adding to my itinerary is my "look" that I'll be rocking along Saint Germaine des Pres. I've got to look the part, right? I came across these gorge photos that were taken anywhere but Paris, but capture the exact look I am hoping to execute. With early Fall breezes and a crispness in the air, this simple look screams Charlotte Gainsbourg with that red lip, subtle bangs, and perfectly fit denim. It's a picture that is firmly planted on my inspiration board for Fall and what I'll aspire to when I cross the pond....SO SOON!

(photo: From Me to You)

New Color Options for Fall

Everyone has been on the candy colored denim trend this Summer. From red to kelly green, it seems like no one has been able to resist some cutesy colored denim. But what, pray tell, to do once the temperatures drop and Fall is officially here? There's no need to get rid of those jeans quite yet. This ad is a perfect example of how to transition what you've got into the best/most appropriate looks for Fall. I think the key is that you're going to clash. But if you intend to, it's not so bad. Wear those colored jeans with a thick turtleneck knit and a long jacket. I love a longer-hemmed jacket particularly if you're wearing crop jeans. Throw on a classic ballet flat, or do a loafer or oxford--that's what I'd chose. It actually turns into a look that makes you wonder how you ever wore them all Summer long!

(photo: courtesy of Glamour)

FIRST LOOK: Karl Lagerfeld for Macy's

Designer collaboration with a fast-fashion retailer. Yada yada yada, you've heard it before. And you've certainly seen me get excited before. But what about Karl Lagerfeld. I mean, hello, that kind of takes the cake. Considering the rise of Chanel prices, owning a piece of Lagerfeld's design history seems just about as distant a reality as ever. So how to get your own piece of the genius? His collection for Macy's is actually quite nice, I must say. It doesn't really have that cheap look to it that the collections for H&M and Target so often do. I'm guessing that Macy's prob used a bit better fabrics than the others would. The designs are like Chanel on a pint-sized budget. A lot of really thoughtful knits and designs and shapes that are ladylike while still being approachable. They don't scream Macy's, but they are purring my name...and I may just listen!

(photo: courtesy of Macy's)

FIRST LOOK: Missoni for Target

I've been exceedingly excited to get my grubby little fingers on the Missoni for Target collection. I got a few sneak peeks at their acrylic trays (would look stunning on my mirrored side table) and dream about having enough room to have the Missoni bicycle casually laying against a wall as a designer prop...a girl can dream. This first pic was just released of the campaign, and it has all the stunning chevron-printed madness that I've been hoping for. I think since I tend for a muted palette these bright and whimsical prints are the perfect accents for my abode. I'm hoping for some vases (very Jonathan Adler-esque in their retro designs) and some other trinkets that will be very well loved in my home...Counting down until September! 

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

My Perfect Summer-to-Fall Uniform

There comes a time in a woman's life, when she realizes what her "uniform" is. Right now, if I'm going to opt for a dress or skirt, I kind of prefer something that's either mid-shin length or to the floor, better to hide my pasty legs with. SO whenever I see a picture of a dress that's long that I like, I immediately bookmark it. Such is the case with this model shot, wearing something that actually is a repurposed wedding dress. Tres cool indeed. The neckline is high and the hem is long but I like that even this light color would be superb in Fall. I'd pair my uber-old Theory curduroy blazer from 2001 and go for an east coast professor look. Some ankle boots in a great shade of rust or brown would round out the look quite nicely. Plus, seeing it here with sandals, it proves it's a seasonless style. Simply put, j'adore.

(photo: courtesy of Altamira)

HEARD: Zara to launch E-Commerce!

Oh you know, nothing major. Except ZARA is going online! Considering I shudder at the thought of having to go to any mall that involves circling for parking and wandering in circles to get to your favorite stores, I'm positively giddy that I can get my Euro fix online coming in September! That means only a few short weeks until it debuts and seeing as just about everyone loaded up on their candy-colored blazers and tapered trousers for Summer, I'm thinking they're going to have something pretty mind-blowing for Summer. Logical conclusion, no? Anyway, couldn't be more excited. Consider yourself warned!

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista.com)

An Inside Look at Gap

A few weeks ago, I had the good fortune of visiting the Gap Design Studio to get an insider look at their holiday collection. Now this new video gives me a more in-depth view of what goes on there behind closed doors (aka when I'm not there, flipping through the racks). They've got this cool downtown L.A. space that seems to be elevating their brand to the next level. Love this new, inventive way to look at the brand.

The Petite Purse

It seems like just about everyone these days is downsizing...literally. Take this purse for instance. The small shape probably would have scared you off years ago, but now it actually seems...well, right. I don't need to carry around my massive filofax and pouch of products that I "may" need just in case. When you force yourself to carry a smaller bag, you immediately begin to realize that when decreased storage necessitates a bit of belonging streamlining, it's not all that bag. Particularly when it's a rich shade of blue like this bag that sits at just the right spot to be slung across her body and on her hip. I think if you're going to go small, make sure you can wear it diagonally like that so it has the most versatility. Hands-free options are my favorite. You'll never realize what you've been missing this whole time!

(photo: courtesy of Vogue.com)

Day-to-Night Dressing Tips

I'm embarrassed to admit how often I change in my car. Sometimes it's just the most efficient when I've got to make it from point A to point B and have to look cute, to boot. So I'm always so happy when I see dress-up, dress-down tips. These from designer Amy Smilovic from Tibi are spot on. I like that she's already thinking ahead to Fall and I like even more that I could get away with using maybe one or two of these and still look a whole lot better in the end. It's actually surprisingly easy if you invest in one dressier pair of shoes (or booties) for Fall and just keep them in your car. In a neutral color they'll go with anything and take you everywhere you need to go!

(photos: courtesy of FabSugar)