Street Style Inspiration for the Weekend

I love this shot because I think it looks like it could have been taken in the 1970s as much as it was taken this season. Full of rich rust colors, textured corduroy fabrics and a mix of textures that make you go "ahhh," everything about this picture is a time warm--save for maybe their ombre hair color. I love it, love how it's new once again and love how I now want to wear a 70's-inspired pansuit or rock some contrasting tweeds and camel colored fabrics.

(photo: courtesy of Vogue.com)

The Latest Beauty Must-Have

About a year ago, I was gifted with this magical ointment from Australia. I thought it was an odd gift, but it came from chic hands, so I kept it close. The red tube of Lucas Papaw is an Australian salve, from Papaya extract, that's known to mend a manner of skin skins and so I keep it close. Now there's a new brand that's launched a new, heightened version, Suvana's that blends Paw paw with honey for skin-treating antiseptic goodness. It's eco, it's magic and it's now available stateside.

(photo: courtesy of Beauty Habit)

Inspired by the Icons: NARS

Inspired by the legend himself, Nars' Andy Warhol collection is full of colors that his muse Edie Sedgwick would have worn in her hey day (think matte nude lip, winged liner and a bit of pink at the apple of the cheek). Now they've created a video giving us an inside look at their mood board and I love taking a look at someone as iconic, as classic, as embedded in art and culture as a reference for style.

 

Winter Layering Trick

I've slowly been relegating my sleeveless dresses to one side of my closet because in this weather, I can't quite figure out how to adequately wear them--and stay warm. But then I was reminded about this easy layering trick when I spotted this cute blogger pic online. I can slip on my favorite chambray shirt underneath a basic shift for two outfits in one, even pair a cardigan over for extra layers. It's a simple way to get extra mileage out of what you've got, no matter the weather.

(photo: courtesy of Chictopia)

The New "It" Boot?

Most anywhere you look these days on fashion blogs and street style snaps, you see the same studded Chloe boots popping up, in red, black and a great cool grey, they're what everyone seems to want to wear. But what about a new alternative that looks this good. In a pretty lizard printed leather, this is the perfect antidote to the black boot in a resort-ready print that'll add legs to Winter and see you right into Spring.

(photo: courtesy of Loeffler Randall)

What's In Her Makeup Bag

Maybe it's because it's Winter but I've become a complete convert of Josie Maran's miraculous Argan oil. I slather it allover my face and like to think that some day I'll wake up looking just like her. This video unearths the contents of her cosmetics bag and if her makeup free face is any indication, I'll take one of each.

A Little Leather Goes a Long Way

I went through such a headband phase when I was younger, so much so that it was considered a treat when I got a new one. Over time, I realized I looked a bit silly in them and realized my huge head didn't quite fit the normal headband size. But now they're an easy way to add adornment to your look, especially around the holidays. This one is from Valentino and pairs the brand's now iconic rock studs on a simple black band. If you can't quite get their rock stud heels, I think this may be the next best thing, in a place where everyone's bound to see your good taste.

(photo: courtesy of Net-a-Porter)

The Ultimate Brown Belt

I can't quite explain why, but I'm all of a sudden hankering for a belt. I've got a great amount of black apparel in my wardrobe and yet I still want a great brown belt to pair with it. I'm envisioning a belt like this, worn with my best black denim, even black boots. The contrast will be perfect and be what sets the look apart, something to offset the rest of the look. 

(photo: courtesy of Madewell)

Inspiration: Grace Coddington

I've long made it a habit of becoming transfixed with certain magazine editors. Though the breed is dying, I'll track their outfits, their careers and read about what got them to their current positions. Maybe because it's a dying breed, I'm that much more fascinated. Grace Coddington takes it a step further, in that she's a bit of a living legend. If you've seen The September Issue, you know just what I'm talking about. She's lived a tenure at Vogue and during that time she's helped transform the way we consume fashion. Her book is a memoir that I've just begun to read. A living legend who's getting the recognition she deserves.

(photo: courtesy of Amazon)

Street Style Inspiration for the Weekend

I'm about two weeks into a new hunter green waterproof lightweight jacket and already I'm somewhat sick of it. Now if I really wanted to jazz things up, I'd step out in this jacket. The whole look screams sophistication but in an age-appropriate way with the cutaway heels and Ray Bans. The leather leggings are something I never thought I'd been into, but am considering more and more, and add a bit of welcome edge to the conservative length of the coat. Just. Love. It. All.

(photo: courtesy of Le Fashion)

In The Studio: Phillip Crangi

I've been on a metal jewelry kick lately, seeing what I can find and the ample assortment of what's out there. Turns out there's quite a bit of shiny gold pieces that you can collect if you're willing. Why I like Phillip Crangi is because his jewelry is of a muted sort, more brushed in design and the effect is altogether edgier. This look at the jewelry designer in his studio gives you an insider look at what really goes on, all the bits of inspiration that are thrown in there and the exciting collaboration that make up the jewelry we acquire.

(photos: courtesy of The Selby)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

A little leopard goes a long way, just take a look at this street style shot. In unexpected hues, as opposed to the normal brown, black and white spots, these colors create something altogether different. Of course conventional style rules say that you shouldn't wear leopard on leopard, one is quite enough. But the pairing of the two here seems altogether fun, unexpected and something I wish I could pull off.

(photo: courtesy of The Sartorialist)

SPOTTED: Rachel Comey for Pre-Fall

I love the way this suit answers all of my dressed-up needs. Designer Rachel Comey delivers delightfully demure dresses season after season but this takes things in a different direction. Tailored with tuxe details, this one-piece is perfect for New Year's eve and pretty much any dressed-up affair, whether I'm option for a denim jacket, moto style or something tweed and tailored. 

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

Winter Wardrobe Redux

I somehow unearthed this photo from earlier this year and it's everything that I'm not--and everything I wish I could be. Between the canary yellow collar, the liquid leather leggings, the hat, the converse and undone oxford shirt that pokes out just so, there are so many elements that go together in this look and so many ways it can go awry. And yet, somehow it all looks great together.

(photo: courtesy of Tory Burch)

Hot-Steppin': Spotted Haircalf

No matter how much I love my flats (and believe you me, I love them), there's something about boots that just make sense come Winter. When it comes to going out at night and finding a dressier pair, that's where things can get complicated. These certainly make a statement. From Ann Taylor of all places, this spotted haircalf print with a nice sold block heel would be bold with all black and shades of grey this season and be a great talking point no matter what you're wearing.

(photo: courtesy of Ann Taylor)

Decadent Gift Idea

Gurus in the beauty industry forever pledge their allegiance to Rodin Olio Lusso face oil for its restorative elements, sweet jasmin smell and wonderful effects that it imparts on radiant, glowy skin. Now the luxe brand that is at the top of everyone's list has released a candle that's the perfect gift for the person who has everything. Candles are the best gifts because expensive ones are the types of things you're always hesitant to get yourself but love receiving--and if you're me, collecting. 

(photo: courtesy of Departures)

An LBD Idea

The holidays are almost here, which means everyone is furiously trying to look their best in holiday garb and the most festive little dresses. While I stake out the dark denim and blouse aisle, I'm constantly mesmerized by dresses that get it right, like this one that takes it to the next level. With a strategic mesh panel, it adds a little bit of sex appeal to the otherwise sweet silhouette. Mix it up and go for the unexpected with a dress like this for the holidays--plus you'll be able to wear it well after.

(photo: courtesy of Lucky Mag)

Book Buying Wish List

There are so many great books right now that are on my list and this cute one could be a really fun gift for friends and young cousins this holiday season. With 40 easy DIY projects for aspiring fashionistas, this guide from A Pair and a Spare blogger gives you tips and tricks to update your wardrobe in a pinch. Plus, it helps you recreate some of the most in-demand looks from the runway--accessible fashion made easy.

(photo: courtesy of Amazon)

Great Gift Idea: Attainable Jewels

Someone quite stylish just alerted me to this new jewelry site, Bagatiba, and I'm loving the affordability of all of their delicate jewelry designs. From made-for-layering necklaces to upper-digit rings and this bracelet/ring combo, they're chock full of perfectly giftable finds at exactly the right time. Plus each piece is subtle enough that any discerning girl would love them.

(photo: courtesy of Bagatiba)

Cocktail Ring + Nails

There's a bit going on in this picture but what struck me most is how the nails match the cocktail ring's stone. What if life were amazing enough that when you got dressed you had the foresight to match your nail color to your cocktail ring. With the holiday season upon us this seems like the perfect time do it. Instead of a rich red, this deep blue seems quite unexpected and a rich statement going right on into the New Year.

(photo: courtesy of J.Crew Tumblr)

Updated Casual

Easy weekend dressing has always eluded me. I'm either stuck in Lululemon in a quest to exercise at some point during my day, or I feel like I'm overdressed with nowhere to go. This picture is a bit aspirational in what I'd like to ultimately be wearing on a stylish Saturday. For days spent strolling through the West Village or ambling through West Hollywood, I'd have a comfy oversized sweater paired with my undone, destroyed boyfriend jeans and come out looking something like this...at least I hope.

(photo: courtesy of Atlantic-Pacific)

SPOTTED: Claire Vivier + Of a Kind

Seems like I'm seeing Claire Vivier just about everywhere these days, with colorful clutches and wonderful leather accessories that make ideal giftables for the holidays. So the designer has just collaborated with Of a Kind on a limited-edition offering that features a wonderfully versatile cheetah print suede in a sleek shoulder bag and coin purse combo. I envision this bag going with just about everything in my closet and the going-price is something that anyone could get behind. Just in time for the holidays!

(photo: courtesy of Of a Kind)

Black on Black on Black

Sometimes as the clouds come in, the temperature drops and Winter really takes hold, it gets harder and harder to be inspired when you get dressed. You opt for black time and time again--at least I do. This layered black look is certainly a bit more inspired than I'm able to muster, with a pop of print at the skirt. The look works so well because the blacks all blend well, with different textures that play well against eachother. It's a perfectly reliable weekend outfit--all Winter long.

(photos: courtesy of Pop, Bop, and Snap)

Great Gift Idea: The Fashionista

Gift giving over the holidays starts out fun and slowly becomes the bane of my existence. I'd love the be the friend and family member who thinks of the most clever presents but I end up being rushed and uninventive and my gifts become just that. These illustrations are a very sweet find that would spruce up anyone's home. They're artsy, fashionable, and I'd love to place a few in a row above my couch or next to my bed. They're perfect for the fashionista in your life, or just someone with some sweet style.

(photo: courtesy of Garance Dore)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

After months of craving cold weather, it's finally arrived. And now? All I can think of is a warm weather destination and all of the fun, lightweight and ethereal frocks I'd ideally wear. This outfit would be perfect on a sand-strewn vacay this December with pale pink and peach accents and peekaboo details. It's got a prim and proper look to it, but if you went barefoot and tied the shirt up instead of tucking it in, you'd be perfect undone for the best resort look.

(photo: courtesy of Vanessa Jackman)

Man Repeller for Sigerson Morrison

A good amount of years ago, back when it was in its prime, I went through a huge Sigerson Morrison and Belle by Sigerson Morrison phase. I simply loved all their soles. They went through a bit of a hiatus--shuttered shop in West Hollywood--and have slowly been relaunching with some really stylized pairs, the type that put them on the map in the first place. The best part? These have been approved by the all-knowing Man Repeller, a personal fave for her out-there picks. What more could you want in footwear?

(photo: courtesy of Sigerson Morrison)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

The longer the days get (which are ironically the shorter Winter days), the more I crave comfortable clothes. But how to look somewhat presentable while going here, there and everywhere in between? I just saw this shot of a dress and love how loose the silhouette is. I think the print and skirted short hemline still make it feminine and somewhat flattering (even with dark ankle boots) even though it doesn't even come close to hugging this bloggers figure. I'd top it off with a little leather jacket and black tights for a seamless Winter uniform.

(photo: courtesy of Teen Vogue Tumblr)

FIRST LOOK: Clothing from Repetto

I'm sure you realize by now I have an overwhelming soft spot for anything French. A pair of my beloved Repetto flats is so tortured that the shoe repair man told me to just buy a new pair. The legendary brand (that still makes me feel like a ballerina) has branched out in to ready-to-wear with a collection of lithe dancer-like designs. From leotard-esque sjavascript:;ilhouettes to lines you'd expect to find a dancer prancing out of Lincoln Center, the pieces will make you channel a more elegant side to yourself, and will be available 11/28.

(photo: courtesy of WWD)

HEARD: Minnie Mortimer x Three Dots

There's been a trend lately of designers updating cotton basics with luxe details, bringing fancy updates to our favorite casual cottons. The latest is Minnie Mortimer who's poised to add her design hand to Three Dots, a brand that has treated me well over the years with thick blends and dependable textures that last and last. I'm excited that they're infusing some design and youth into their brand and can't wait to see what they have in store. 

(photo: courtesy of @MinnieMortimer)

Casual Must-Haves: Distressed Denim + Brogues

I'm always trying to perfect my weekend look without wearing the same exact thing over and over again. I've been pretty set on a certain pair of denim and studded slippers that seem to be making me quite happy. But, this could be an equally reliable look. This distressed denim pairs perfectly with just funky-enough brogues with neon detail. The contrast of weekend ease with modified prep makes for a perfect match and dependable weekend dressing.

(photo: courtesy of @TibiPR)

The Search for the Perfect "It" Bag

We used to hear fashionistas talk about their search for the perfect "it" bag. While the conversation seems to have slowed down a bit, I'd argue it's because there are so many great options out there that nothing really quite qualifies as "it" anymore. This Rag & Bone pilot bag is the latest to the mix. The functionality mixes with fashion and form for an everyday style that's day-to-night perfection, mixed with a versatile floral print that adds a dash of femininity. I'd wear this all week and all weekend, and probably wouldn't even be bothered to swap it out at night.

(photo: courtesy of Glamour Tumblr)

The Urban Puffy Jacket

I spent many a year in college devoted to my down North Face jacket and now it just doesn't seem quiet so chic. How to wear something as warm in the urban sprawl? This picture seems to sum it up quite well. A nice thick fur, faux-fur or three-dimensional knit is where it's at with warmth enough to go around and a look that's perfect for the season. I'm preferential to the jacket with a long, sleek bell jean for a completely modern '70s look.

(photo: courtesy of Style By Kling)

Girl Crush: Cher Coulter

Cher Coulter is a stylist extraordinaire. The mind behind Kate Bosworth's most style stalked looks, she combines boho with breezy elegance in a way we all wish we could harness each and every morning. Here she lets us in on a few of her secrets (not to mention her insane collection of jewelry) to show us how she manages to forecast those looks far before we know we even want to wear them.

French Fantasy: IRO

I recently discovered the line IRO on a bustling stretch in the Marais in Paris and I have to tell you, it's everything I dream of. The store was chock full of perfectly cut moto jackets and skinny jeans, the kind that the French girl you're obsessed with wears with an annoying ease. They're now starting to show everywhere in the U.S. market and the stuff keeps getting better and better. Full of textured layered, insanely amazing fits and that je ne sais quoi cool girl vibe, it's everything I long to be.

(photos: courtesy of Because I'm Addicted)

Sneaker Chic

The wedge sneaker continues to make its mark and more and more styles are coming which means the trend doesn't plan on dying anytime soon. So for those of you who want to try it out, here are some things to consider. Instead of doing an oversized sweater plus skinny jean look, opt for something a bit more femme on top, like a boucle or tweed jacket and some stylized adornments. 

(photo: courtesy of Chic All Over)

Heard: Bauble Bar x Essie

Lately I've been seeing a lot of matching. Red lips with red nails, navy shoes with navy bag, you name it. But nails with jewelry? It's happening. Essie has teamed up with Bauble Bar for a super cute collab where you can purchase one of Essie's Winter shades along with a limited-edition bangle that Bauble Bar has designed to match. This is an adorable gift and fun collectible that you can stack well beyond the holidays.

(photo: Glamour Tumblr)

Accessible Vintage

I am absolutely terrible when it comes to vintage. I'm never quite sure what to look for, I get insanely overwhelmed and I always get immensely sad when someone I know ends up with some great find that they had the patience to uncover. This new curated collection seems to do the guesswork for you. Margharita Missoni (a personal style icon) has unloaded upwards of 70 pieces from her own collection onto this website for all of us to peruse and purchase. It's guaranteed to be some of the best scores around, not to mention some one-of-a-kind vintage Missoni pieces.

(photo: courtesy of Yoox)

SPOTTED: New Footwear from Free People

The problem with a small closet is you can run into the problem of wearing the same shoes over and over again. You can't see everything you have, so it's just as easy to resort to your trusty boots day after day. So what if a collection nailed those trusted pairs with pieces that were completely chic and you had to have each one. The just launched shoe line from Free People is every bit as boho as the line is and the boots are the perfect complement to their flowy and print pieces. I pretty much like everything I see and know that these are the types of pairs I'd wear day-in and day-out...which are the best kind.

(photo: courtesy of Free People)

New Sweater DIY

It's only early November and I'm already starting to get sick of my sweaters which means it's going to be a very long Fall and Winter season. I came across this image though and I loved it for a few reasons. I was reminded that a pretty jewel green would prob look pretty against my dark hair and fair complexion and I was struck by how original the pins looked cascading down her shoulder. Totally odd and completely unconventional, it's a great way to update what you already have with antique, heirloom and fun pins that are easy to acquire and impossible not to amass.

(photo: courtesy of Vanessa Jackman)

Back to the Basics in Black

As soon as I saw this image I couldn't help but notice that it probably could have been taken close to 20 years ago because of how timeless each piece is. The flawless dark denim, the pointed toe suede heel, the perfectly bulky knit. They're all basics in a way that you want to wear them year after year and when you do, you recognize why they're so damn good. Here the blacks all work together to make a look that could be perfect for daytime meetings and even better for a subtly chic effect at night.

(photo: courtesy of Garance Dore)

Top Trend: The Letterman Jacket

I've been seeing different incarnations everywhere these days of the updated letterman jacket. They come with slim leather sleeves and some are even showing them in perfect knits that are ideal for Winter. But how to wear them to make them look new and not so academic? I love this look with slick leather leggings and boots that add just the right amount of edge. Keep the proportions right too. Make sure the jacket isn't too short or offset the hem with a longer tee and leg-lengthening pants for the perfect casual cool look.

(photo: courtesy of Tory Burch Blog)

Found Objets

Because I don't have an whole lot of space to play with, I'm constantly envisioning different ways I can work with what I have at home. I've been looking at as many pictures as I can to take inspiration of how I want to re-do my coffee table and my "tablescape" can take my different shapes. I can consider a central color scheme, mix styles and patterns or focus everything around one standout piece. So far only time will tell but these particular pieces struck my eyes as standout pieces that I'd love to divert focus to.

(photo: courtesy of Lonny Mag)

SPOTTED: Zadig & Voltaire Winter '12

It's not that common that you come across a Zadig & Voltaire store, but when you do, it's always spectacular. With that amazing French appeal, the designs are a bit edgier and this season they've nailed the art of layering so that it seems as effortless as ever. I particularly like the dark, but not too dark, fabrics and mix of textures that give it a nice boho feel. Makes you think of French Morocco and that perfect outfit.

(photos: courtesy of Zadig & Voltaire)

How To: Update Neon for Fall

Someone at work was discussing how neon was so big during Summer and how sad it was to see all of her favorite neon pieces sitting by themselves in the closet this Fall, unworn and without anywhere to go. Looking at this great picture from early September I was thinking of ways to make it appropriate for Winter weather. A great thick camel sweater would pair perfectly with that full circle skirt. Pair it with thick cableknit stockings and heeled lace-up boots and I'd say you're set. Want something sleek? Go for chunky heather grey on top and keep the line sleek on the bottom with black wool tights and a black lace-up heeled boot instead.

(photo: courtesy of Tibi)

Narcisco Rodriguez for Kohls'

A much-discussed fast fashion collaboration has just launched and the look is quite good. Narcisco Rodriguez who is known for body-hugging, curve-enhancing sheath dresses and the like has teamed with Kohl's and the designs below show his sleek lines in more approachable and accessible fabrics and prices. He's still working with clean lines and almost atletic shapes and angles but the delivery is still there and now open for a whole new audience to see.

(photo: courtesy of Kohl's)

I Want, I Want, I Want

In the game of can you get any more coveted, Proenza just did it again. This time, they've introduced the PS 13 and I don't even think I have to say anything, I think the bag's sleek design and modern riff on their now collectible classic speaks for itself. Plus the nice thick strap promises comfort and handles do double duty for wherever your day may take you. So chic.

(photo: courtesy of Proenza Schouler)

New Collection from Vena Cava

After a few unforeseen hiccups, Vena Cava is back and seemingly better than ever, catering to their fans who embrace retro feminine flare with throwback silhouettes and a new capsule collection that just launched. This jumper spoke to me. Not sure I could ever actually wear it, but I guarantee I'd be in awe of anyone who would. Not only are the designers are insanely chic as the clothes, but all of these pieces are under $70 which brings them to a whole new audience. A great move for an under-appreciated line.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

Spotted: The Ear Cuff

After years and years of going back and forth between studs and then hoops and then hoops and then chandelier earrings, you'd thought we'd maxed out of earring potential. And then we came across these beautiful ear cuffs, that do something completely different. They're more along the lines of ear adornment than they really are jewelry but I'd argue their subtlety is even more powerful. I love the way they you can choose a sheen that plays against the color of your hair and is a near peek-a-boo with hair cascading over it. A great new concept that is new and different.

(photo: courtesy of Jak & Jil)