Street Style Inspiration: Easy Elegance

Just revisiting a near perfect street style shot of an equally near perfect editor. I think I immediately fixated on the image because the white button down and trousers is the silhouette I have been using as my go-to of late. It's easy, sports a boyish charm, and is figure-flattering without being overtly so. While I opt for the black and white color palette (boringly predictable), this editor goes for the unexpected with a near rust color that offsets her gorgeous brown locks. With mustard and those rich hues making a splash, it's giving me some great ideas for Spring.

(photo: courtesy of Teen Vogue)

Line to Watch: Mark Cross

Stumbled upon this image today on Twitter and am thrilled that I just discovered this new luxury leather brand. With a rich heritage (dates back to 1845) and beautifully textured leathers, these bags have the ladylike appeal that screams classic collectible. Instead of toting a bag that everyone else is wearing (guilty as charged), go for a heritage brand--available at Barneys--that has a bit of retro appeal.

(photo: courtesy of @lilyscoutk)

The Latest: Marni for H&M

In what has become an upcoming fast fashion collab shrouded in secrecy, the first images of the Marni for H&M campaign have leaked and it reveals everything we could have hoped for. The metallic brocade is dreamy and those big, bold geometric prints are EXACTLY what Marni is known for. Add in a little bit of H&M's lower-priced quirk (note the t-shirt detail) and you've got the perfect high-low mix. Cannot wait until the collect bows in stores soon, it'll be one to watch.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

It's Spring from Wren

I already love all things Wren--their utter insouciance and easy, L.A. glam--and then I found out that designer Melissa Coker clocked influence from Lana del Rey and now I am totally behind this collection. Equal parts boyish charm and femme details these paired paisleys and florals are all about ease and then she throws out a form-fitting LBD that screams glamour. It's a bit of old Hollywood with days spent in Los Feliz is the best way to describe it. Simply perfect.

(photos: courtesy of Honestly WTF)

The New Navajo

Thanks to the ever-chic and always on-trend Isabel Marant, the Navajo print that we've been seeing for a few seasons now has gotten a fresh update with a clean, sharp twist. In darker, less-expected tones and sharper lines, this Navajo is less than what you expected and more big-city cool. Emblazoned onto the side of denim and mixed with structured and other tailored closet essentials, they're becoming less a passing trend and more of a seasonal necessity. How would you wear it?

(photos: courtesy of Because I'm Addicted & StreetFSN)

SPOTTED: Asos for Spring '12

The weather seems to be screaming Spring in LA and all I can think about is when I get to officially get to swap my knits and blazers for light laces and sheer-like fabrics. The latest lookbook from ASOS seems to get it spot on. They have a bounty of dresses that are entirely spot-on for Spring along with whispy fabrics and designers featuring light-as-air colors that are a breath of fresh air as things warm up. With everyone talking about Coachella, these designs would be perfect for the Indio sun--and lazy summer days in LA.

(photos: courtesy of ASOS)

Karl for Net-a-Porter

Not since 2004 has Karl Lagerfeld done a cool collaboration. This time, instead of going fast fashion, he's teamed up with uber cool Net-a-Porter for a lower-priced line of clothes that look like they're loosely modeled off of his well-coifed signature ensemble. Full of edgy tailoring, lots of black and whites, and collars that you can wear on their own, these clothes are nothing but cool--and totally Karl.

(photos: courtesy of Net-a-Porter)

SPOTTED: New from Vena Cava

I think I love these shots so much for a few reasons. They capture the essence of two native LA girls who have quickly become Brooklyn transplants and seem to somehow embody so much of what both coasts have to offer. And there is something about Maggie's body language that screams modern dance, which you know makes me happy beyond words. It nice to see new life in these Vena Cava designs, the cool corals, printed silks and retro blends that have made the line such a resounding favorite seem to be back and I can't wait to see how they hopefully continue to what they inspire in the coming seasons.

(photos: courtesy of Vena Cava)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

I've noticed lately that seemingly every jacket that I try on has an abbreviated hem, cut nearly at the natural waist and making for awkward proportions when I go to put together an outfit. I favor longer cuts which do cover more, but in the end make me more comfortable. That's why I got excited when I saw this exaggerated, longer blazer. It seems a bit like borrowing your father's old design, but tailored to fit your slimmer silhouette, it could be downright sexy. I think cinched in just right at the right--double-breasted would be my dream--would make this the ultimate find.

(photo: courtesy of AltamiraNYC)

SPOTTED: A Relaunch from Sigerson Morrison

You'd be forgiven if you kind of forgot that Sigerson Morrison even existed. Their shoes kind of fell by the wayside and aside from having some very strategic pairs in my closet, I all but forgot about them. Apparently they're all set for a relaunch next week and have leaked some new pics--they're also under the guidance of always-chic Taylor Tomasi Hill. So, in sum, get ready for some incredible eye-candy and the same great styles that endure season-in and season-out.

(photo: courtesy of Lucky Magazine)

Street Style Inspiration From Couture

I love Fashion Weeks because despite the excitement of seeing what is on the runway, I'm more enamored with what you find on the streets. Right now a slew of editors have flocked to Paris for Couture Week and this shot of an editor bundled up in her best has reminded me of how to combat the Winter blues the best way I know how. We all grab for a black or navy or even charcoal blazer when the temps drop--it's what we know. But a dark print looks even fresher. If you're going to have an allover print, try a cinched hem, a peplum detail, or adding a belt at the waist to keep the proportions of your body clean and not lose your shape altogether. 

(photo: courtesy of WWD) 

Must-See Exhibit: Fra Angelico at LACMA

After years of feeling left out when the Met got their spectacular costume exhibits, now we have something that elicits a bit of excitement over here on the left coast. Rodarte has teamed up with LACMA (among a slew of other cultural collabs this year) and designed a capsule collection of sherbet-hued confections specially for the exhibit. Fra Angelico is absolutely breathtaking in person and is a reminder of how incredibly talented these designers are, capturing their artisanship and letting viewers really see the craftsmanship up close and first-hand. The exhibit runs through February 5.

(photo: courtesy of @officialrodarte)

The Perfect Pairing: Leather + Button-down

It's official, no one quite looks like Miranda Kerr. And after meeting and talking to her in person, I can say that without any hesitation. But the look that she puts together in this off-the-runway shot is just as compelling. The leather pants are pretty edgy but she somehow softens them with a tailored button-up shirt that she's fastened all the way up the collar. The juxtaposition of the two isn't too overt--not mixing pastels and leather--plus it lets her be edgy while still being sexy...let's be honest, she doesn't have to do much.

(photo: courtesy of Altamira)

New Blog: The Fresh Mani

I think I could look at this blog every day--and I think I will. For girly girls out there, this takes completely inane pictures of cool and unique manicures and gives you fresh ideas of how to take those Limo-seen manicures and make them super interesting. From gels to glitter tips, there's everything you can imagine and it's oddly fascinating, especially if you look at some of these as works of art.

(photo: courtesy of The Fresh Mani)

SPOTTED: The Latest from H&M

I have to say that H&M seems to be on a bit of a role lately. Despite me having anxiety every time I actually go into the store, when I see pictures of what they have and their latest lookbooks I always get green with envy. Their latest is full of the neutrals that we're going to want to be wearing come Spring in great slouchy fabrics that look deliciously comfortable--and expensive. Eager to see these in person.

(photos: courtesy of Nitrolicious)

SPOTTED: A.L.C. Pre-Fall '12

I always actually love when stylists get into the design game because I happen to think they really know what they're doing. They know what fits a body quite well and what women actually like to wear. Andrea Lieberman of A.L.C. is no exception. I am always drawn to the simplicity of her cuts and the way each designs is so feminine without being overtly so--just my type. The latest from her shows these all-buttoned up dresses that lack the saccharine that I try and avoid with dressing up. The prints are very "right now" and I love how they feel retro and futuristic at the same time. Look forward to seeing these on the racks soon--and copycats where they came from, too.

(photos: courtesy of Style.com)

Karen Walker for Anthropologie

I have a hard time with sunglasses because the more money I spend on them, the more likely I am to sit on them whilst getting into my car. It's a foolproof equation of sorts. Karen Walker always has intriguing frames and a price point that always makes me take a second look at the number on the tag. Now I find out they're doing a cutesy collab with Anthropologie. Makes sense that the retailer is getting into the game too and I like the pairing, seems quite fitting. The images look quite telling and it includes both retro silhouettes and sunglasses. This means good things for all, particular shade-loving wearers like us.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

How To: Showcase Your Jewelry

I'm always looking for new ways to de-clutter and display the jewelry I have so that it's not all stored away and I don't forget that I have--and forget to wear it. There's no better--and literal--way to showcase what you have than with a shadow box. The frame blends perfectly into any interior decor scheme and can lean up against a wall or be mounted and hung like a regular frame. I love the way the hanging necklaces and earrings look like their own works of art, creating a quintessential piece of home decor.

(photo: courtesy of How I Met Your Style)

The Sequin Tee

I've been seeing these a lot lately, but I kind of love the look of a sequin tee for day with a casual pant or denim. The looser, drapier the tee the better--and to counteract the loose fit, pair tailored trousers or skinny jeans. Of course you could wear sequins for a night out but go unexpected with something like this for day, it's a fun way to keep things interesting on those lazy weekend days.

(photos: courtesy of Alexa Chung Blog and Net-a-Porter)

SPOTTED: New from TEXTILE Elizabeth and James

Ughhh, could you just? I have to admit my Jimi Jeans from Textile by Elizabeth and Jeans that I got when I interviewed MK & A are the epitome of comfort. I thought the flare would be too exaggerated, the rise too low. But instead their just about perfect. This time around I see one pair of those signature flares but now I see a ton of pairs of printed jeans. I don't know if I would wear them but I love that they're new and different when every other denim brand is showing the exact same thing season in and out. The skinny fits are perfect matched with drapey tees which are nearly always my silhouette of choice. Perfectly done and I can't wait to see these colors and textures in real life. Could be the next big thing. Are these two ever wrong?

(photos: courtesy of Fashionista)

How to Wear an Oversized Sweater

As a friend once told me, "All you own is oversized beige sweaters that have no shape." And while I still think she's wrong, I do understand the point in her reasoning. When push comes to shove, I will go for the oversized tee or sweater any day of the week. Clingy and formfitting just scares me. That's why I love this styling tip for how to make all the boxy knits that I do own look somewhat flattering. This particular tip doesn't entail a belt--which is usually what I hear--but instead suggests cropped pants to play with proportions. The timing is perfect because I've been wearing my cropped everything in heavy rotation lately so this way you don't cover too much skin and keep people guessing with which hemline you're leaving long or styling short. I particularly like wearing this with the type of open-toe sandal for a night out, making it a California Winter classic. 

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

Mary Katrantzou x Longchamp

If you've ever caught a street style blog, chances are you've seen a crazy print dress from London fave Mary Katrantzou. The dizzying graphics almost look like they've been green-screened on they're so vivid in their imagery and colors. Now she's taken her insane artistry to the masses with a special collab with Longchamp. The capsule collection of bags includes their famous over-the-shoulder foldable tote and comes in the designers now signature colored prints. Such a perfect travel companion and great way to stand apart from the crowd. A collector's piece for sure.

(photo: courtesy of Lucky Magazine)

Pre-Fall from Carven

They had me at their bow-adorned heels a few seasons back and ever since Carven relaunched I've been a huge, huge fan. Their updated take on French schoolgirl classics is pure perfection--and if you were with me in Paris this past Fall you know is something that I try hopelessly to emulate at any chance I get. The draping isn't overdone, but delicately shapes the body. The collars aren't exaggerated but sweetly feminine. All the hemlines are still short to stay girly but the sleeves stay long so they're still appropriate--and I still like them. It's French dressing at it's best...and bound for a day at le jardin du luxembourg. 

(photos: courtesy of Style.com)

Vera Goes Hollywood

I happen to love Vera Wang. I think she's just so cool and has always remained consistent and completely committed to who she is. Harper's Bazaar just captured some pretty captivating images of her new house in L.A. that is completely the opposite of what I would expect her house to look like. Compared to her whimsical wedding dresses and feminine fits, these sharp lines and stark interiors are a complete juxtaposition to the Vera that I've come to know...and yet I love it. The contrast is so fresh and new and makes me love her design aesthetic even more--she knows how to take risks. Take a look, it's absolutely stunning.

(photo: courtesy of Harper's Bazaar)

Have to Have: Velvet Skimmers

I have to admit, while I constantly obsess over velvet slippers like these, I have yet to actually get a pair. These may be the answer though. A cool collab between Tibi and a little known brand, Del Toro, the jewel tones and cutesy embroidery are a whimsical take on the trend with a bit of a tongue-in-cheek nod to what fashionistas like me are dying to wear. I would kill to pair these with boyfriend jeans or opaque tights and a great skirt. I think any color would suffice, I won't be picky.

(photo: courtesy of Tibi Tumblr)

SPOTTED: Alexander Wang for Pre-Fall '12

For pre-Fall Alexander Wang did what he does best and I can't stop looking at the brilliant way he played with proportions. I haven't heard his name as much as in years past but this smaller collection shows just how talented he really is. The red dress is a classic example of his bodycon draping that women love. I personally can't wear a dress like this, but when a woman can, the effect is jaw-dropping. And the modern ode to women's suiting with sheer layers and blends and fits and cuts that make you look twice and wonder where one piece of fabric ends and the other begins. It's just so smart. I really love these pieces and can't wait to see what's next.

(photos: courtesy of Vogue.com)

New: Essie for Spring

I for one am not quite tired of the dark reds, purples and Wintry nail polish shades that have become a routine once the temperature drops. But if you're looking forward to a more colorful palette, Essie just released their first look at Spring with an eye-catching collection that will make you sing. With hues that I envision looking best on a sun-drenched beach somewhere South of the Border, this range is what we'll all be wanting come April...if not sooner.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

A Different Colored Denim

I am sure you bought a pair of colored denim at some point in 2011. It was hard not to. The cheery shades were everywhere and we got some great new ways to style them so that all of a sudden we wondered how we'd lived without colored denim our whole lives. But nearly all of the styles I came across were skinny fits--which is fine, I like skinnies. But I just saw this picture of cropped, slightly flared denim and what a new fresh way to interpret the trend. Saturated with a rich color the proportions are all of a sudden completely different when the cut is flared versus tapered. Try an alternative to what you're used to--and what everyone else is wearing. I think you may like what you see.

(photo: courtesy of Tory Burch)

Teeny Tiny Purses

I know, I know. They're known for their dizzying chevron, zigzag prints. But lately it's their shocking colors and even leopard prints that have me most excited. I was perusing Shopbop the other day (not exactly out of the ordinary) and I came across a cute selection of easily affordable handbags from M Missoni. Now these aren't quite everyday bags but they look perfectly poised for a beach vacation or two. In fun prints, great colors and unconventional textures, they're made for their day in the sun--or sand. Plus in their teeny tiny shapes I like that they fit not much more than a lip gloss, drivers license and devil may care attitude. If you're on vacation, you don't need much else. M Missoni bags. Who knew?

(photos: courtesy of Shopbop)

Street Stye Inspiration for the Weekend

I can't say that I have ever been to Phoenix, but with their constant sunny climes, I'm not at all surprised that people there look like this. Perfectly tanned and with glossy highlights, this girl would be a stunner even without her effortlessly chic outfit. I may still be wearing my skinny jeans day in and out but my eyes are firmly planted on bootcut and flares right now. She's got the look down pat with a great, almost-tribal necklace, wearable earth tones and an oversized grandpa cardigan that's fresh because the sleeves are rolled up and she's stacked on some cool metal bangles. The look is pitch perfect and now I want to go to Arizona. Street style at it's best.

(photo: courtesy of Glamour Tumblr)

How to Mix Prints

If you're anything like me, you're in a bit of a charcoal grey, faded black rut these days. If you're feeling sunny, you manage to slip into a pair of brown boots. That's the extent of it. So when I see a cheerful print, I get pretty much ecstatic. Imagine the ecstasy when I saw the combination of patterns that at first site seem to clash terribly and then when you fix your gaze on them blend into one harmonious pretty look. I think you can break the look up with a belt (I would even go with a leopard print one if you're really going for it) and wear an outfit like this to get you in the mood for Spring's pretty palette. What better way to cure the Winter blues (and blacks)?

(photo: courtesy of Late Afternoon)

A New Ring to Wear

I've never really been a ring person. After a Paris pickpocket robbed me of some of my favorites, I've never really gotten back into the swing of the ring. But sometimes just sometimes I find some that I like--and you know I love something that's just a little bit different. These rings are meant to be worn on the top portion of the finger for something that's entirely unconventional and unexpected. Not sure how comfortable it would be, but you could easily double up and maximize the bling. I like the idea of wearing a simple band or signet ring up top with something more elaborate or chunky down below at the base of the finger. If you're going to go all out, why not?

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

Color Combo: Turquoise and Coral

I am all about trying out new color combinations and yesterday I touted the merits of pairing different shades of blue for the ultimate effect. I've been in a Winter rut so I've been toying with a darker palette for what seems like months. But thanks to Shopbop, I saw some beautiful Resort colors today. The combination of coral and turquoise certainly isn't new, but it's fresh once again--especially considering the frosty temps outside. I love this turquoise necklace placed against the buttoned-up collar, which seems the antithesis of a season that we consider one meant for showing as much skin as possible. It's ladylike and still edgy with bold accessories and an exotic print that both catch the eye. The combination is pitch perfect.

(photo: courtesy of Shopbop)

SPOTTED: Jason Wu for Target

After the frenzy that was Missoni for Target (after all that, all I ended up with was two vases), I am happy to report that the first pictures of their latest collaboration have hit the internet and they look pretty good. Big name designer Jason Wu (A fave of MObama) is bringing his ladylike silhouettes to the mass retailer to bring us a tough of femme whimsy for a fraction of the cost. We're just getting one picture right now but there are promises of more to come. Loving the fits and how un-Target it feels and looks. Just what we're going to be in the mood for come Spring, when it hits.

(photo: courtesy of T Magazine)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

If you're feeling blue, what with the end of the holiday season and starting back at work, here's something to make those shades of blue a bit more desirable. I happen to have so much blue in my closet and I love taking stock of other blue looks that are done just right. The voluminous sleeves and below-the-knee hemline aren't what you would expect on someone so young, but somehow with the white socks and high heels they feel fresh once again. Pair textures and different shades if you're going to stick with one color, that way you can stay new, even while wearing things that are already in your closet.

(photo: courtesy of The Sartorialist)