A Day in the Life: Fashion Director

I love the idea of a coffee-infused work day (usually when I'm not actually in it) and this little vignette gives you a glamorous snippet of an idea of what it's like to be a fashion director of a magazine. Yes, the clothes are that great, the offices that visually appealing and everything just seems that aesthetically appealing. It's my very own adult version of "take your daughter to work day" for inquiring minds.

Must-Have: Faux-Fur Jacket for Fall

Every time the temperature drops, I get into the same age-old debate with my grandmother: to wear fur or to not wear fur. I think the floor length versions are a bit outdated, but I'm starting to think I can really get behind a shorter version (one that is cut right below the hips and in a fur or faux-fur version that is quite nice). This one looks delicious for Fall and Winter and perfect over skinny pants and blue suede pumps. I think I'd also love some vintage flare jeans and an oversized hobo for retro appeal. No matter, the jacket works.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionologie)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

I always get vexed by yellow. I think it's a tough color to pull off. But seeing this photo and the way it perfectly breaks up Summer whites--and transitions you into Fall--I'm thinking the cheery hue is actually universal. I love the print on the scarf and the way that yellow comes but in patterned and unexpected forms. The outfit is still light and bright, but dark oxfords and a wonderfully warm oversized cardigan would make this the perfect Fall outfit. 

(photo: courtesy of Teen Vogue)

Stamp of Approval

I've been paying a lot of attention to stamps lately--the kind you use with ink, not mail--and think they're a sweet way to add a personalized touch in a pinch. I noticed a post on the J. Crew Tumblr today about adding flair to your own cargos, khakis, canvas bags or anything else that's printable with a personalized stamp that you can carve yourself or order up in a flash. It's a fun way to leave your mark and keep things cute no matter the season.

(photo: courtesy of J. Crew Tumblr)

How To: Wear Camo

It may still be sizzling outside, but I've got my eye on the racks of fall clothes. As the colors get darker for September, October, etc. one of the key trends is camo. But this new camo isn't the pattern on fatigues you're used to seeing. It's exaggerated, sometimes rendered in flowers and in colors that are lighter, brighter and of course, fresher. This version from Marc by Marc Jacobs is completely wearable. I'd probably break it up with a plain white tee, skinny jeans or another neutral color (heather grey, cream) to make the look my own.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

Ladylike Detail

I love this girl. She's a major mag publisher and fashion director and I find her style almost of another era--not to mention her looks are beyond timeless. I love that this dress is almost something you'd see in the '60s but she's made it fresh and new. The red stripes match her red lips and yet the ponytail and strappy sandals make it young. I never would reach for something longsleeved like that but I like how you can make it your own--and it's an alternative to all the skin-baring styles we're used to.

(photo: courtesy of Tales of Endearment)

Street Style Inspiration for the Weekend

There is something that is so timelessly chic about this photo. If you put it into black and white, it could easily be from another era. The bustier on the floral strapless dress is so very romantic Italian. You can make it more modern with a jean jacket and ballet flats or keep it simple with a pair of plain canvas Keds or simple leather sandals that let the dress speak for itself. 

(photo: courtesy of The Sartorialist)

Fall's Best Leather Jacket

All of a sudden there are racks and racks of Fall merchandise making their way into stores and all I can think about is what I am going to be wearing when the temperature drops. The leather jacket is an essential and every girl wants one in her closet. The classic version is a motorcycle style, but I like that this one is in a deep forest green version and with ruffles to add some delicate detail. Veer away from what everyone else is doing and take the cake with something unexpected.

(photo: courtesy of Glamour Tumblr)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

I love perusing street style and dressing up has become an activity in getting noticed for a lot of bloggers-on-the-cusp. This pic of a cute girl in LA shows her layering the peplum trend to add texture to her look, pairing pretty lace with a royal blue print and coral for a summer color combo that is fresh and new. The outfit seems a bit mismatched but it's dressed up in an undone kind of way that is age appropriate and daytime fun all at once.

(photo: courtesy of Chictopia)

First Look: Handbags from Loeffler Randall

When I look at some of my most reliable pairs of shoes over the years, one brand always takes the cake--Loeffler Randall. Theyr'e just grown up enough with a touch of girly whim and I love that there are a few standard classics so that I never feel like they're too trendy. Now we've just got word that LR is launching handbags which means the same staples will be translated into bags too. One word=yippee. Expect work appropriate shapes that give you enough room with style enough for nighttime wear.

(photo: courtesy of Honestly WTF)

It's Back: MTV's House of Style

If you were anything like me growing up, you looked forward to your weekly fashion recap, MTV's House of Style. The originator had Cindy Crawford (then Sharlom Harlow and Amber Valetta and then even Bar Rafaeli) in all her glory going head to head with the likes of Todd Oldham bringing me everything that was hip and cutting edge and that my unknowing grade school self had to have. Now the franchise is getting a reboot, but that's not what has me excited. You can now glimpse the entire archive of episodes online, which is basically the greatest source for retro and throwback inspiration ever. Go ahead and get watching.

(screen grab: courtesy of MTV)

Must-Have Tote

After a recent trip, I realized I am in desperate need of a grown-up tote bag. My canvas ones are cute and all, but when it comes to looking like an actual adult, luxe leather takes the cake. Since I'm usually partial to Mulberry, their new collection of Tromp D'oeil bags feature the illusion of hardware without all of the fussy detail. Instead they've got clean lines in beautiful leather that will wear beautifully over time. Grown up with a bit of sass.

(photo: courtesy of Mulberry Blog)

What's In My Bag

As much as I try and streamline, a look inside my bag on any particular day is a pandora's box-type experiment. Whether it's random packets of sweetener, highlighters, hair spray or a myriad of other oddities, I'm usually embarrassed when someone gets an inside peek. Looking inside Aerin Lauder (my hero)'s bag and it's an exercise in chic restraint. Sure, she's got a lot, but it's also super luxe and glam and I wouldn't mind if it spilled in front of a crowded room and everyone saw. From textured compact cases that house her new beauty line to sweetly feminine color palette that isn't too jarring (she'd hate my current neons), I'm all aboard.

(photo: courtesy of Aerin)

Modern Day Pearls

Many of times I've been tasked with wearing some version of pearls and I just can't seem to get behind them. I want something newer, more updated and fresher that fits my aesthetic a bit more. So what to do? This media necklace weaves pearls with ribbons and a bit of metal into a bold statement that looks sophisticated, polished and still quite young. It's the perfect antidote to tired strands while still looking classic in collectible pearls.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

Closet OCD

I am beginning to think that the majority of my time is spent organizing--and then re-organizing my closet. Because I have so little space (and because I am slightly OCD), I feel the need to keep moving things around so that I get the most wear out of what I have. I've begun to realize, if you see it, you'll wear it--and the opposite holds true, too. I'm constantly looking for new solutions and ideas and I've always hung my jeans and pants but maybe I'll come around after seeing how great these stacks of denim look. A new space-saver that makes room for the rest of your prized possessions.

(photo: courtesy of Song of Style)

New From Wu

It's been a while since we've had news of an exciting designer news, which is why I was doubly jazzed when I heard that Jason Wu was finally launching his lower-priced Miss Wu. Full of the femininity that he's become known for, the chic silhouettes and tailoring all embody his signature form in more approachable fabrics that we can get behind. Now we can get our Wu, too.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

Prints on Prints at Play

This shot recently caught up with a stylish gal at work and since it's the middle of Summer's hottest stretch, a pretty print sleeveless dress seems to be the best antidote. The vibrancy makes it an enticing option each morning and the double prints gives it some character beyond that closet full of little black dresses. Punctuated by some metallic accessories and punchy add-ons, this is a Summer uniform that can be transitioned into Fall with the perfect shrunken blazer or little leather jacket.

(photo: courtesy of Racked)

The Leather Tee

Even though it's beyond sweltering around much of the country, there's something luxe about updating my favorite tee in sumptuous leather for Fall. I love that this one dresses it up with proportions I haven't seen (and would have been afraid to wear) before. It's a bit oversized with perforated detail to make it breathable no matter the season. The juxtaposing Peter Pan collar means this is anything but you're ordinary t-shirt, making this a nice blouse/tee hybrid and I think it's the perfectly versatile shirt to wear with distressed skinny jeans for a night out or a cute a-line skirt for work. Two for one!

(photo: courtesy of Net-a-Porter)

Coveting the Cap-toe

I have been seeing a resurgence of the cap-toe lately which reminds me of my good old days rockin' my signature Jack Purcell. These dressed-up versions are generally putting a metallic toe on top of a muted leather color for effect. I love these because they still have a dressed-up vibe but make the trend wearable every day, which is how I'd like to do it if I was wearing it every day. I love my studded oxfords for Fall/Winter comfort more than anything and think a but of a metallic accent makes them jazzier than ever.

(photo: The Daily W)

Pre-Fall: What is it?

While everyone can pretty much get behind the notion of clothing collections segmented into Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer, designers and retailers went ahead and inserted a few extra seasons in there to confuse us all. Right now, I'm seeing a whole lot of Pre-Fall offerings (when all I want to do is keep buying dresses and sandals) and I came across this explanation on Shopbop that I thought was timely and so very well done. 

As they explain it: "This mini season fills the gap between spring’s super-summery camis and sundresses and fall’s too-cozy-for-September wool coats and boots, and it acts as a subtle source of insight into the label’s main fall collection. This offering is about transition. Think lightweight knits and soft leathers, ankle booties and relaxed silhouettes—pieces that will not only refresh a stale summer wardrobe, but will also live in said wardrobe for years to come."

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

The Look: Lucite on top of Leopard

As much as I spend time thinking about style and fashion, I've been spending a whole lot of time lately thinking about how I'd decorate my dream home. I haven't created a Pinterest board quite yet, but if I did, this picture would fall onto my board. The combination of print rug below lucite table takes it to the next level from what I currently have. I love how the print is much lighter than what I'm used to and the lucite provides an uninterrupted, but still highly-stylized, approach to coffee table design. A well thought-out duo.

(photo: courtesy of Glitter Guide)

A Fashion Fantasy

If you want to fall inside a fashion fantasy amidst a million fragrant flowers, the scene was the recent Dior Haute Couture fashion show. What I wouldn't give to have been there. This video gives you an inside look at what it was like to experience that epic week in Paris.

Fancy Patchwork

I've been getting really into chambray and denim shirts lately, at the same time that I've been getting really into leather (an unfortunate habit for the Summer months). So what's a girl to do when she likes two? This shirt from IRO pairs them together perfectly. The pocks look great and the denim is just the right wash that you can actually wear it to work with a tailored pencil skirt or tapered ankle grazing black pants for something sleek. The shirt does double-duty with dressed-up and dressed-down appeal--meaning you're really getting two for one.

(photos: courtesy of LeFashion)

Very Into It: The Cameo

When I was younger, I had an affinity for simple necklaces with rows of small stones, the subtler, the better. Now that I'm older, I like something more visual, compelling. A cameo does the trick with a centerpiece that makes a single statement. The other rings in focus have the same effect with oversized stones that are equally eye-catching. Instead of blending in with the rest of your look, they stand out against what you're wearing and are an instant conversation piece.

(photo: courtesy of We Heart It)

Double the Layer, Double the Fun

Going to school back east, it wasn't unusual to see two polos layered atop one another for an especially preppy look. The more Ralph Lauren you could muster, the better. They may not be polos, but I've managed to amass quite a collection of button-downs in my day and I came across this blogger's snapshot where she layered two atop one another, in contrasting but still complementary colors. The fabrics have to be super lightweight for it to work (lest you overheat) and the cuts have to be similar so that the buttons line up just so. I think it's fun with a sweet skirt or paired with something feminine to offset the double dose of tailoring. A novel idea for effective layering.

(photos: Could I Have That)

On the Road with The Selby x Louis Vuitton

One of the true originators in my favorite kind of style documentary photography, Todd Selby of the Selby, has teamed up with Louis Vuitton for something I think is really amazing. In time for the brand's opening of a new store in Shanghai, they had Selby travel by train from Paris to Shanghai and document his journey along the way via videos, photos and illustrations. There will be daily reveals, all leading up to the store's opening mid-month, but his real-life captures are sure to illuminate.

(photo: courtesy of Louis Vuitton)

How To: Summer Suiting

I'm not one for the classic suit, in fact I hate buying pretty much anything that matches. But there's something about the classic suit that is so demure and ladylike. But instead of feeling a bit too "mature" in the classic shapes and cuts, there's a way to make yours thoroughly fresh for modern wear. Keep fabrics and textures seasonally appropriate--if they're not, make sure to mix up color like this yellow tweed for Summer. Keep hemlines short and fits flawless to play up your shape. Add edgy accessories to pair ladylike with edgy to keep the mix young. You have a new work standby that will take you places.

(photo: courtesy of The Cut)

Modern Metallics

Conventional wisdom says metallics are golds and silvers, pretty simple rules to follow. But today's metallics are new, some are subtle, some are shinier, and all of them are different than what we've come to expect. This pewter version is so great because I think it's versatile enough to pass for daytime wear (with simple flats and a fun colored shoulder bag) or with hot heels for even a black tie event. The new metallic can be dressed up or down and has a unique sheet to it that is exciting and new. Try a refreshing new version when you opt for your next look. Everyone will take notice.

(photo: courtesy of ChicMuse)

Must Watch: From Chanel

This video is completely hypnotic, mesmerizing and just downright coo. Kind of reminds you why we end up transfixed by the beauty of Chanel packaging and product time and time again. A great watch.

The Perfect New Sunglass Case

I've been recently lugging around a sunglass case that is just about as cumbersome as they come and I've been trying to think of a way to sneakily put my frames into my bag without the case without completely destroying them. Yes, a hard cover case will protect them against wear and tear, but I happen to think this adorable needlepoint one is retro and fun and completely quirky. I can never give up my "grandma" Vera Bradley duffel that I acquired in college and this needlepoint motif has the same textured feel that I just love. It'll slip into all of my bags (even the smallest) and look really fun when I take my shades out.

(photo: courtesy of Jonathan Adler)

The Look: Dressed-Up Vintage Tees

I came across this editorial from ASOS magazine and I loved this look in particular, pairing a vintage t-shirt with dressed-up silk trousers and oversized colorful costume jewelry. I think they're actually the perfect antidote to overused silk blouses that everyone is wearing these days--I'm just as guilty. I think if you're going to go vintage, make sure the shirt is in good shape and the fit is slim (if the sleeves are long, I think they look really cute rolled up). Stick to neutral colors like heather grey or charcoal so that the shirt and its graphics doesn't distract too much from the rest of your look. It's a great new pairing to add to your closet basics.

(photos: courtesy of ASOS Magazine)

The Perfect "New" Cocktail Dress

There's so much written about the merits of the perfect LBD. It's got to be little, thigh-grazing and perfectly hug your curves. But what if you go for the unexpected and rely on a crazy colorful floral print for your go-to instead? I love the look of this vivid number that looks femme and chic with simple heels on its own and then all of a sudden edgy with a modernized denim jacket with hints of leather. Why not mix things up and keep it fresh with your own version of reliable.

(photo: courtesy of Closet Visit)

Inspired By: Dirty Dancing

There's something about Summer that reminds me every year of Kellerman's and Dirty Dancing. It's an all-time favorite and the way this blogger ties her shirt just so reminds me Baby and her totally classic '80s wardrobe. I love the way a sleeveless button-down tied up would look with vintage cut-offs--and just about anything for that matter, dressed-up or down for every occasion. It can be completely casual or chic for a business meeting. Can't think of anything better.

(photo: courtesy of Downtown Romantic)

Jewelry Inspired by Art

There are a lot of places to get inspiration and one of my absolute favorites is art. From vivid colors to creative elements, there are so many exciting ways to interpret what you see and then wear them in unique, individual ways. Jewelry designer Lisa Salzer of Lulu Frost takes the intriguing color palettes of works of art and incorporates them into her designs making for truly artistic jewelry pieces--a unique way to wear jewelry and keep it classy and inspired.

(photos: courtesy of Onward, Lulu)