A New Era of Designers

I stumbled upon this really cool slideshow featuring the latest from design students at Pratt School of Design. It reminded me how it's so crucial to look for emerging talent, especially when it comes to fashion. Of course it's fun to collect classic labels, but sometimes it's even cooler to begin following a designer when they're still new and be one of the first to champion their pieces. There is so much young talent out there, it's a great reminder to think young--and locally--when it comes to finding fashion.

(photo: courtesy of The Cut)

Cool Color Combo: Sunshine + Purple Blue

These comes a time every Spring/Summer when I begin again to introduce color into my wardrobe. It takes effort, but it slowly happens and I do it piece by piece. But what if--and this is a big what if--I did it in big heaps, like this cool color combo that probably looks better together than if worn separately. Of course I'd never think to pair them together but they play off eachother so perfectly and the pattern gives the look a little extra depth--and fun--just in time for the seasonal warm-up.

(photo: courtesy of What I Wore)

How To: Dress for Work in the Spring

I love this Springtime/office-appropriate work wardrobe update. I know so many friends in the professional world (not me) who stick to boring black and grey Theory suits and occasionally mix things up with a colorful blouse or add-on from Zara. But what if you did something different--and colorful--like this? It looks so fresh, could be pulled apart to maximize the pieces as separates, and seems spot on for the season. Try a colorful approach to your standard work uniform this season and I have a feeling the response will be quite positive.

(photo: courtesy of Tibi)

Covetable: Girl's Night Out Chic

I think this is a perfect representation of what I'd like to look like when I go out but don't actually manage to accomplish. The combination of short hemline with silk button down is exactly what I like, making for a play on proportions that just works. And those shoes?!?! Can you get a load of those shoes. Since the rest of the outfit seems so professional, it makes sense to do something fun with the footwear--either a pop of color or something statement like cat wedges in velour. Take your look to the next level with inspiration like this.

(photo: courtesy of WWD)

How To: Wear All While

White is a hard color to pull off, even if you're in the safe months of Summer. It tends to be clingy, revealing and leave little to the imagination. I think if you're going to go head-to-toe, like this lovely look from 9-to-5 Chic, you've got to have the perfect hems to accommodate the overshare of color. Three-quarter length blazer sleeves give the look a less serious feel while the ankle length of the denim makes gives the extra flash of skin to make whole outfit accessible. Still feeling a bit undone, the effect is Summer ease with a bit of polish--exactly my speed.

(photo: courtesy of 9 to 5 Chic)

New: HELMUT by Helmut Lang

Just this weekend I picked myself up a Helmut Lang jacket. I don't own a lot from the line but every piece I do is so interesting and architectural that it elicits a million compliments with every wear. Lucky for us, they're launching a diffusion line (aka, lower prices ($95-$205) with the same great cuts). The new designs hit stores in May but can't come soon enough. The asymmetrical silhouettes are edgy sexy at its best.

(photo: courtesy of New York Magazine)

From the Archives: Mario Testino

I was recently made aware of the amazingly revamped site from photog Mario Testino (behind some of the most celebrated images we know and love today). The site has a tremendous archive that is like your own virtual inspiration board, just one click away. Featuring all of his most brilliant works in one place (including unforgettable editorials, spreads, etc.) this is such a great resource to find a little creativity when you're lacking. The visuals are simply stunning.

(photo: courtesy of Mario Testino)

Springtime from Vanessa Bruno

Now that Spring has sprung, it only makes sense to celebrate it with perfectly Parisian designs from Vanessa Bruno, a standout fave since my time spent in Paris. In this video starring Kate Bosworth, her aesthetic comes to life and gives you a glimpse into the world that Bruno has created, both in France and stateside. Take the journey.

(video: courtesy of Vanessa Bruno)

The Boho Blend

I am not sure that I can really pull it off, but I love the look of a long, flowy boho dress. I think it works perfectly at music festivals, leisurely backyard affairs and Summer soirees of any sort. But what about the city? It seems a bit out of place, no? This picture on Something Navy reminds me that there is a place for it yet, you just need some sophisticated accessories to make it work. While the dress can stay folksy, add sleek lines and neutral colors in accessories to bring streamlined appeal for city living. That way your look can translate no matter where you are, from backyard to Brooklyn.

(photo: courtesy of Something Navy)

The Last Magazine

Last week I had the good fortune of spending some time with the team behind The Last Magazine, a concept that was still somewhat new to me. The indie, semi-annual magazine is published with the intention of recognizing and spotlighting the generation of emergent talent from fine artists to designers to every name you need to know in between. I've since spent a tremendous amount of time on their website and can tell you that it keeps me feeling cool and in-the-know about names and artists from every respectable genre. Definitely something worth reading.

(photo: courtesy of The Last Magazine)

An Ode to Closet Space

After doing a little shopping this weekend, I decided it was due time to reorganize what I have, move some sweaters away for the warmer months and purge the belongings that I haven't worn in 2+ years (more things than I care to admit). What I wound up with was a more edited selection that allows me to see exactly what I have--save for my shoes which my closet just won't accommodate. I love the way this dress is captured hanging on a curtain rod. Sometimes you need to spotlight one standout piece (on a rolling rack or otherwise) to remind you how special it is, what's inspiring you that season, and what you want to focus on when getting dressed. A little sartorial direction never hurt anyone--I search for some daily.

(photo: courtesy of Elle)

Behind the Scenes with Elin Kling

Aside from being completely obsessed with her style, I am transfixed by Elin Kling's beauty. Having seen her in person, she's the real deal and I loved this little vignette that took me behind-the-scenes of a Bazaar shoot that showcases her sense of style as much as her sense of self. Take a watch.

Shoot with Harpers Bazaar from Elin Kling on Vimeo.

New: Kain Label for Net-a-Porter

I have it on good authority that the new Kain Label for Net-a-Porter designs are going to be amazing. A longtime fan since I indulged in their slinky tees and tanks, I've now become accustomed to more structured designs--and I want a label that is going to grow (and grow up) with me. It looks like that is exactly what Kain has done with this latest collab, featuring designs exclusive to the retailer. Plus vivid colors for Spring. Yes, please.

(photo: courtesy of Racked)

Organic Cosmetics: The Josie Maran Way

I've been slowly (very slowly) incorporating organic products into my skincare routine, but have yet to make the leap into beauty. The one brand though that continues to gain resonance (from editors and experts) is Josie Maran. Far from just a pretty face (which btw, she is), she's created this cult label that let's you enjoy the benefits of completely healthy beauty and makeup products while still looking aglow. If I can look one bit as gorgeous as she does, I'm in. I'm going to slowly start incorporating her products into my routine. The best part? Many of them are multi-taskers.

(photo: courtesy of Josie Maran Cosmetics)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

Truth: there is a lot going on in this picture. But, somehow, someway, the lovely Tanya manages to pull it off. I think I'm most struck by the camo pants. I would pass right by them. But paired with hot pink heels, they're instantly neutralized. The cuff makes them somehow less drastic and the tailored blazer means they're all of a sudden work appropriate. It's a nice reminder of how you can really tweak anything to make it exactly what you want it to be--even if it is something you never imagined you'd want to wear.

(photo: courtesy of Garance Dore)

Fresh New Dress Ideas

Brilliant design team Costello Tagliapietra always have the most richly rendered feminine designs. And now, thankfully for us, they've just launched a diffusion lower-priced line that features their same amazing cuts, fits and drapes in fun, punchy colors and addictive patterns just in time for Summer. This dress right here would be my antidote to the LBD with uber-flattering cross-body cuts and a color that is a total standout. With a leather jacket and some neutral heels, this would be ideal for Summer soirees.

(photo: courtesy of Elle.com)

A New Twist on Shorts

I'm not a huge fan of shorts, unless the situation particularly necessitates them, but I like the whimsy and feminine detail on this scalloped khaki pair. They're the perfect DIY for any pair that you can get cheaply, just by using a waved stencil to make them your own with an uneven, delicate scalloped hem. They instantly become a little softer than regular shorts and the perfect functional update for Summer.

(photo: courtesy of LeCatch)

SPOTTED: Coachella Trends

I know, you've seen a million street style photos of what people were wearing at Coachella. But let me tell you, as someone who was on the ground, the weather was too unpredictable to make a full on skin-commitment (thank god) and left girls coming up with creative ways to show their style. If I had to sum it up, this picture of Fashion Toast's Rumi Neely sums it up best. Even though it was freezing at times, girls added layers while still wearing short shorts and absolutely everyone left their sandals at home and opted for ankle boots. Now you know the look.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

The Magic of Muted Color

I feel like all you hear about these days are the importance of a pop of color. I'm so busy looking for bright hues and neon shades to add to my otherwise functional palette that I forget how nice a neutral can play. Look how this khaki compliments the nautically striped shirt. Instead of reaching for a standout contrast, these two pieces pair perfectly because they're not competing. Warm things up with softer tones and pieces--and colors--that work together in subtle shades and new neutrals.

(photo: courtesy of The Face Hunter)

Missoni x Converse

I have a complete soft spot in my heart for all things Missoni, so when they go out and do something accessible (ahem, Target), I'm one of the first to get on board. The latest is a collab with Converse that pins their signature chevron zig-zag prints on the high-top chuck taylors for a fresh new take on the classic sneaker style. The result is a modern appeal to everyday dressing or a casual add-on to fancier looks. I'd wear mine with cropped or ankle-length pants to let the pattern play their part.

(photo: courtesy of L.A. Times)

Perfect Proportions: Weekend Wear

Sometimes Summer stresses me out, what with the short shorts, mini skirts and skin showing everywhere. I love the look of this casual outfit that is the perfect play on proportions. She may be swearing cute shorts for a casual bike ride, but the track jacket is the perfect piece to balance out the look. It's a sporty play on the afternoon activity and keeps something covered up when there is plenty of leg elsewhere. I love the look and am now longing for afternoon rides on the beach. Summer, get here!

(photo: courtesy of Song of Style)

Pretty Packing from Pucci x Guerlain

I am a fan of multi-purpose beauty products almost as much as I am of products that do nothing but look pretty in their packaging. This one from Guerlain may fall into the latter category. In collaboration with Pucci, this beautifully print container of pearlescent powder beads strikes the perfect balance of armoir eye candy and Springtime sheen. They're pretty enough to impart that seasonal "It's Summer" glow, and yet the packaging is stunning enough to speak for itself. Functional, indeed.

(photo: courtesy of Beauty Counter Blog)

Channelling Tomboy Style

I just got alerted to a new blog, Tomboy Style, and I really like everything that I see. Apart from a new book that I'm bound to pre-order, the darling blogger seems to have figured out the perfect way to dress tomboy chic--and everything that entails.  From androgynous details to menswear staples, these are looks I can get behind. Take a look at the video that teases the story.

Tomboy Style: Beyond the Boundaries of Fashion from pier pictures on Vimeo.

SPOTTED: New from Opening Ceremony

Opening Ceremony has been a total kick lately, and I love their latest--which features designs that bring to mind the early days of Alexander Wang with a modernist, feminine twist. I really love how athletic some of these designs are, while at the same time they make me think of female superheroes (which any girl can get behind). Take a look at this awesome new lookbook for empowered, female style.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

How To: Rock the Rolled-Up Sleeve

When I was little, I loved rolling up my sleeves. Not like getting all down and dirty, but short sleeve shirts that were neatly cuffed and rolled because it was the 80s and that's what we did. This picture made me think of that and made me realize that sometimes pushing up your sleeves can still leave a lasting, chic effect--especially when the roll reveals a contrasting fabric or color. I love the way here it makes the shirt look a bit more like a muscle tee and toughens up the look to change the feeling altogether. 

(photo: courtesy of Blame it on Fashion)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

This outfit is totally my speed and seems to have a bit of Spring lightness to it, too. I think the canvas sneakers do the trick, but the bateau striped shirt offset the leather sleeves and the light, ethereal scarf makes the whole thing appear more Springtime than it really is. If you're looking for a quick fix--or want to fool yourself into think Spring is really here--a quick accessory like this is all you need. It adds instant texture and light to your tried and true looks.

(photo: courtesy of The Cut)

How To: Wear White Well

Whenever it gets kind of hot, I always reach the same conundrum: should I wear white jeans, and if I do, how can I wear them so that I feel comfortable. My solution has been to search for a fit that I already trust, one that I know works on my body. I'd love a pair of longer flares for evening I think ankle length ones are going to get incredible use on a daily basis. I'm looking for tops that have a bit more volume and length so that I feel a little more covered and comfortable. I think a colorful cardigan will be the ultimate add-on. I love here the way dark accessories are added to offset the lighter look. The tucked-in white blouse adds volume to the pant, and keeps it flattering. Play with proportion and color until you find what works for you. 

(photo: courtesy of Chictopia)

SPOTTED: DVF ♥ Current/Elliott

What is essentially my favorite denim brand (I promise, their fits do not disappoint) has teamed up with forever classic DVF for a capsule collection of resort-ready denim that is cheery, vibrant and makes you want a vacay, stat. Conceived in just a few pieces (including one signature denim wrap dress), the prints come in typical DVF colors and the denims are everything we've come to love from the cult-fave label out of L.A. The pieces are available now and I got an inside look at what the collection is made of. Check it out. 

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

Accessory Mash Up: The Jeweled Collar

I'm in desperate need of a few Spring pick-me-ups and nothing that I'm finding on the shelves or on the racks seems to be doing it. The quick fix? Some accessories of course, and this jeweled collar by Dannijo actually seems like something I'd wear. Paired over a plain white tee, it could be the perfect solution for days when I don't feel like doing anything spectacular but need something a little special. Consider a "wow" piece like this one--I have no doubt it'll be my go-to.

(photo: courtesy of Teen Vogue)

How To: Rock a Power Suit

This photo may scream '80s to you, but there's something about the details that makes the look wearable. First, so few people are wearing full head-to-toe suits these days, that in-and-of itself, it's kind of amazing. The sweet silk blouse offsets the tough fabric of the suit, the cuffs at the ankle show a bit of skin and the undone hair makes the whole thing feel a bit haphazard--and perfect. It's probably not the way you'd expect to see a tailored suit, but somehow this feels just right.

(photo: courtesy of Vanessa Jackman)

Herb Ritts at the J. Paul Getty

I had the good fortune a few years ago of helping to research the book, The Golden Hour, about famed photog Herb Ritts. The tome speaks for itself in its vivid imagery and the tale of Ritts and his dramatic life. Now the J. Paul Getty museum in Los Angeles has just opened an extensive exhibit of his prized works, including some of the most celebrated photographs. If you're in the area, I hear it's fantastic, running through the end of Summer and full of Ritts' standout style.

(photo: courtesy of LA Times)

Leopard + Ikat + Surrealism

I love a batty combination of patterns, especially when it's a clashing mix. I used to hate it--and be afraid of it--but now the more contradictory the better. I think this image conveys just how powerful it can be. There are three strong and distinct prints represented: the leopard in various hues, the ink ikat and the beautiful Man Ray image. Each is so powerful on their own and yet when they're together, they're forced to co-exist and become almost neutral. So interesting to reinterpret a bold print or pattern as neutral or basic...makes you reconsider.

(photo: courtesy of Vogue.com)

Sweet Smells: New from Jason Wu

In the vein of indulging in anything luxe, Jason Wu just got a whole lot more attainable--and accessible. He's done a limited-edition candle with Slatkin (uber-chic purveyor of all designer candles) and his is naturally as ladylike and femme as his covetable designs. In a white orchid fragrance, it's poised for some serious mileage in my apartment and I'm hoping for a slew of more collabs to come, clothes are just too small a category for him to stick to.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

New from Anthropologie: The Designer Collab

Sadly, Anthropologie has all but fallen off my radar since I frequented them on a near weekly basis in Center City Philadelphia in my good ole days. But now they're up to some pretty cool things to keep them competitive with the rest. Their latest designer initiative is collaborating with amazing designers in a new online initiative called Made in Kind. Select items will be designed special for the store (available in stores and online) and from designers we all covet (think Karen Walker sunnies, Gregory Parkinson, et al). The images look amazing and bring a decidedly designer appeal to the retailer. Very well done.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

Must-Watch: The LBD by LEAF.tv

Always impressed with everything creative that comes from Geri Hirsch, particularly her series of videos for LEAF.tv. Living, Eating and Fashion showcases Geri's chic style, know-how in the kitchen and the how-to's are friendly, accessible and addictive. In the latest, she's teamed up with Barney's (any girl's dream) and wandered around their hallowed halls for an adventure in mastering the LBD. She's perfects every look (head-to-toe accessories included) and I'm reminded why she's so good at what she does. Must. Watch.

Gone Retro: Polka Dots

There seem to be a number of designers who are taking a retro approach to fashion, and Tory Burch is one of them. This mustard yellow polka dot top is darling, with puffy short sleeves, a cinched waist and a pattern that is retro in detail and yet somehow never goes out of style. I love modernizing the blouse with deep dark denim, sleek white pants for Summer or even a contrasting pattern for effect. The look ends up being completely modern.

(photo: courtesy of Net-a-Porter)

New Download: Trendabl

Are you an avid Instagramer? Things just got a whole lot chicer. Trendabl just launched as the Instragram for the fashion set. It's an app that lets you create a profile around all of your best photos. You can tag them, filter them, and add a designer profile, plus share them with your friends on Facebook and Twitter. It looks super sleek, super fresh and a great way to share what you love, especially when it comes to all things fashion.

(photo: courtesy of Trendabl)