Street Style Inspiration of the Day

There is something about this image that is so striking. I think it's the combination of the ethereal skirt and thick knit sweater is such a striking pairing. It's not quite Fall here in LA and yet all I want to do is wear my thick sweaters, tweeds and warm knits. So what's a girl to do? Take a cue from this pic and pair your sweaters with the last of Summer--even a sweet skirt like this that nicely offsets the thickness of the sweater. Who could blame you for hanging on?

(photo: courtesy of The Cut)

The Perfect Day Bag

As I've gotten older, I've realized the importance of the everyday day bag. I need to haul a lot on a daily basis and as much as I envy those who can pull off an oversized clutch on a regular basis, I just can't. So how can I turn this ordinary cognac leather into something that's my own. It looks great right now, but I'm thinking a great racing stripe down the center in a neon for a pop of color would do the trick. It's a pretty simple DIY that could be accomplished with simple paint or even spray paint. What better way to get around with everything you need?

(photo: courtesy of Madewell)

Closet Update: The Herringbone Blazer

While I could go on all day about the merits of a black or navy wool blazer, when I saw this blogger pic, I realized how fresh and unexpected the fit looks for Fall in a nice textured herringbone fabric. The palettes are always quite neutral so it really works with anything you own and it's a refreshing update to what you're used to wearing. Plus this way it's an easy switch to keep things interesting on a seasonal basis.

(photo: courtesy of Kendie Everyday)

The Perfect Clutch: GOOP x House of Harlow

If I've noticed one thing, it's that a clutch is an indispensable part of a modern woman's wardrobe. Whether I'm going out at night or to a formal affair, it's the one non-negotiable. It doesn't even matter if it's entirely impractical and without function, it's got to look good. This cool collab from GOOP (yes, we're talking Gwyneth Paltrow) and House of Harlow by Nicole Richie is the stuff celeb dreams are made of. But it ain't bad. Plus it's got a nice skin finish to it and sick enclosure to make sure it dresses up every LBD you own.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

Rebecca Minkoff at Home

I love me some Rebecca Minkoff. Not only has she built herself one hell of a brand, but she also happens to be one of the nicest designers around. I loved this inside look into her apartment in Manhattan--and an up close look at her signature style--that showed me why she always looks so flawless. Hint: it's a combination of killer jewelry designs that are always stacked and a mixture of statement shoes and figure-flattering shapes. 

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

How To: Sweater Storage

It's comin' on Christmas, they're cuttin' down trees--well, almost. But it is near time for sweaters. And I am always perplexed this time of year as to how to store my sweaters because I want to keep them all hung on hangers but given my cramped closet situation that just isn't practical. So, I'm always looking for good tips. How do I keep them visible without those wrinkles that result from folding. This pic shows the wonders of rolling, allowing for maximum visibility, minimal wrinkles and great accessibility for cooler climes.

(photo: courtesy of The Coveteur)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

How delicate does this street style subject look. I can't decide whether it's the pony tail which perfectly contrasts with the architectural edges of the outfit or the way there is nothing to draw your attention away from the straight line the design makes down her slight frame. It's all so demure. The pleating isn't something we see every day anymore but it's at once regal and dressy and still looks decent enough to wear on New York's city streets.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

Mayle Re-Emerges

A long long time ago in a magical land called NoLita in New York there lived a marvelous store called Mayle. Then the recession happened, we all cried when the store--and line--closed, and such is life. Now Club Monaco has breathed new life into the brand with a capsule collection of their bags which emphasize the line's easy, breezy and uber-femme appeal. Starting October 3rd, you too can get a piece of the storied label in all their color-blocked glory.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

The Latest from Jesse Kamm

Yes, Saturday marked the day that Summer was officially over. But after having spent another weekend in Ojai, I'm here to tell you, this heat will have you thinking differently. The latest collection from SoCal favorite Jesse Kamm is full of Los Angeles-leaning designs that have me daydreaming about my next sun-drenched getaway. From barely-there fabrics to loose ethereal dresses to panama hats that may or may not fit my head, there's something for every weekend retreat.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

SPOTTED: Sparkly Boots

I've been known to hoard Rag & Bone booties. They just look so good and go with everything and fit and flatter and every other superlative I can think of. But as versatile as my brown and grey pairs are, I'd never quite considered a glitter boot before. They've done updated their signature style in a shimmery finish that would look great dressed up and completely unexpected--but fun--dressed down with denim.

(photo: courtesy of Rag & Bone)

How To: Wear Different Shades of the Same Color

I saw this street style shot and I immediately thought that the combination of blues isn't what you'd normally wear. You'd probably try for two navy blues, especially now that it's Fall. But wearing different shades is completely unexpected. From the palest blue but to the deepest hues, by pairing them together you're getting something that is unique and interesting and I love it that much more.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

The Perfect Army Jacket

A few years ago, on a whim, I picked up an army colored casual jacket that I've since worn so much it's turned into almost a tie-dye number. Since it doesn't quite look the way it should, I'm considering my next investment since it's become such a super important part of my daily uniform. This version from Gryphon is pitch-perfect. The indigo patchwork prints on the pockets make it extraordinary and it's got a stiffness to it that means it'll keep its shape over time. I can't wait to wear this every single day since it's bound to go with everything I own.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

Must Have Sweaters

I can't actually bring myself to buy one but I keep looking at sweaters because it's the right--and logical--direction to take this time of year. I particularly like this one that acts as much as a sweater as it does as a jacket to use during those transitional temps. The color says "I'm here" and the fit can be buttoned up if you want to go for a more buttoned-up preppy approach over a plaid flannel or pop of color over a white tee and leather leggings. It's got versatility to spare.

(photo: courtesy of Madewell)

Workwear Inspiration

How adorably sweet does this girl look. She's poised to go to fashion shows, kick up her heels at a girl's dinner and run to a meeting. I sound annoying, but you know what I mean. There's versatility in what she's wearing in an updated "I don't have to only wear Theory black pants" sort of way. I love the addition of sequins that can go day-to-night and statement-making shoes that include a dash of transparent PVC for effect. It's a fun look for Fall that I'd keep in the front of my closet for when Spring rolls back around.

(photo: courtesy of Canned Fashion)

Street Style Inspiration: London Fashion Week

I'm starting to realize the versatility of the grey sweatshirt or crewneck sweater. I just pulled mine out for a pre-Fall dry cleaning ritual and am already fantasizing of the different ways I can dress it up. Instead of black pants and boots (which I can still carry off), I think it'll look classic when paired with more feminine elements this go-around, like tiered ruffle skirts, unexpected sculptural heels, skinny jeans and leopard print pumps. Anything to juxtapose the casual ease of the top.

(photo: courtesy of The Cut)

How To: Fishtail Braids

As my hair gets embarrassingly longer and longer I'm left with very few options as I stare in the mirror each morning. One of those that I've contemplated trying lately though is the fishtail braid, which is the one braid that I've never been able to master (I'm a french braid queen). So, instead of turning my hair into one big knot in practice, I thought I'd find what I'd like to aspire to, along with a how-to (from Lauren Conrad, of all people). But, I know many very pretty and well put-together girls who swear by her how-to's, so here we go. Long-hair may have met its match.

                   

HEARD: Carven x Petit Bateau

Carven has officially become the creator of all things French schoolgirl chic. The Paris purveyor of new contemporary classics has paired up with Petit Bateau--another longstanding French favorite--for a capsule collection of pieces that beg to be incorporated into your look. Starting December 5, the pieces have a bit of baby appeal in the sense that they're intriguingly simple, yet they do the trick in their classic designs. This dickie is probably out of the ordinary for most but could be worn under a stretched out crewneck, deep v-neck or under my favorite chambray button-down for the perfect layering effect.

(photo: courtesy of WWD)

Street Style Inspiration: Cool Karlie

This look just works. Sure, she's a model, but I think anyone could pull off what she's wearing because it's so understated and simple--and timeless for that matter. The tank works year after year and is seasonless in that you can layer it when it gets cold and wear it bare when it gets warm. The jeans are an update on your favorite skinnies with great zippers that work because they run diagonal to give you great flattering length. The cropped length showcases the pointy-toe heels that are all anyone is showing right now, classically elegant and ones you'll have in your closet for ages. An all-around standout look that still carries some welcome edge.

(photo: courtesy of Mr. Newton)

The Half-Turban + Topknot

There's something that looks so effortless about this hairdo. Being able to throwback your hair in a topknot is the epitome of easy, but sometimes it can look a bit messy--especially when I do it. The way this editor pairs hers with an updated headband that adds a lot of texture and fashion-forward appeal to her look is intriguing. It's got a turban vibe without all the fabric, letting the back of the bun pop out the back. Great for days when you want the ease of your hair pulled back with an added accessory.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

SPOTTED for Spring: Silks

One of the hardest parts about Fashion Week is that you see clothes that you won't have access to for nearly 6 months. Your favorite silks and jacquards that you saw in brilliant vivid colors on the J. Crew runway last week won't make it into stores until nearly February. So what's a girl to do? Well one thing is incorporate some pieces of the trends you saw into your look today. Add a sliver of silk to your Fall routine in colors that make sense, or offset Fall's darker colors with the vivid colors that J. Crew used. Why wait until Spring?

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

How To: Wear a Leather Skirt

I was immediately struck by this picture because of how unusual this leather skirt looks. I'm used to seeing a leather mini, or even a swingy skirt these days. But a maxi in a straight pencil shape? I hadn't seen that before now. Pair that with a tailored button down, streamlined accessories in a striking sterling silver and a slick pair of timeless Wayfarers and you have an amazingly daring and conversation-starting look. I couldn't love it more.

(photo: courtesy of Vanity Fair)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

This look is eye-catching and statement-making and all of the above. I'm particularly drawn to the detail, almost batik embellishments on the skirt and top. They look completely unique, likely to snag everything I own, but beautifully breathtaking upon closer look. I'm absolutely fixated by the beading and how they can make something so dark and black look so delicate. And yet those platform black boots throw the whole look off-kilter adding an important ounce of edge for balance.

(photo: courtesy of Working Girl Esq)

SPOTTED: Elizabeth and James for Spring

For the first time since I can remember, Elizabeth and James presented a collection that looks like the Olsen twins could and would actually wear it. The drapes were elegant, the shapes were heavily tailored and the use of brocade and color was spot on for the season. I love how everything was matchy-matchy, which is something I normally hate. I probably still couldn't pull it off, but I think that it makes it so much more compelling of a look, especially in a beautiful Asian-inspired silk.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

The sweatshirt is back. I actually just got myself a rock'n'roll print tee that I've been trying to find the right occasion to wear and this sweatshirt ups that game to the next level. So stylish on it's own and I'm a fan of the look with great high waist jeans and heels, a boldly layered necklace or even a pencil skirt and statement heels for Fall. The sweatshirt is incredibly versatile and insanely comfortable, so simply put, why not?

(photo: courtesy of Tommy Ton)

How To: Layer a Skirt over a Dress

This takes layering to the next level. It's a shirt dress that probably is somewhat shapeless on it's own and plays a bit of a peekaboo when paired with a cinched-at-the-waist skirt. I love the way it adds texture, keeps you guessing and gives that Summertime sheath a second wear after all. It's definitely a unique way to get extra mileage out of that old slip or dress and gives a pop of color that any Fall palette can appreciate.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

This is what I'll call the updated schoolgirl look. I love the short socks that this editor paired with her updated booties, the blazer that she paired with the short light skirt and tie-dye top and the crossbody bag that makes you do a doubletake for a book bag. It's fresh and new and screams Fall. Bring your own personal touches to the schoolgirl look for something new this season and it's sure to be something you come back to year after year--with a fresh eye each time.

(photo: courtesy of Refinery29)

New from Rag & Bone for Spring

I've been pretty in sync with Rag & Bone for quite a few years now, always unable to resist their ability to design pieces that make you feel "done" without looking too overdressed. They've gone ahead and mixed some prints into their offering, like a pretty, unexpected floral for Resort and here comes a graphic geometric design for Spring. It's vivid in color and has a fit and silhouette that promises flattery. A great extension for the brand.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

The Harem Pant

I've never been one for a harem pant, but I just read a post that made a convincing case for them. It stressed their versatility when it comes to wearing them day to night, dressing them down with flats and a white tee for casual afternoons and weekends and a structured blazer and sleek heels for a night out. Since I love double-duty pieces that work well from day to night, a pair like these present an interesting shape, vivid prints and comfort you can't get from a skinny jean.

(photo: courtesy of The Local Rose)

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

It's still quite warm in New York, so the outfits that are turning up at fashion week are still pretty print-heavy and Summer-fied. I like this particular look that's infused with a ton of color, different textures and patterns, as if to say, I'm not ready to give Summer up quite yet. I love the casual tee with the graphic print skirt, those amazing lace-up heels that are timeless and go with everything, the print bag that classes perfectly and jewelry that turns heads. It's an undone, mismatched combination that's effortlessly cool.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

SPOTTED: The Latest from Rachel Comey

A designer that I've never actually own, but always been intrigued by, Rachel Comey has an appeal that features "signature subtlety and easy femininity." What's not to love, right? Her collection for Spring appears to be a bit more grown up that designs past and gives you options for when you have somewhere to go but don't want to appear overdone. It's the type of timeless designs that every modern girl wants in their closet.

(photos: courtesy of Style.com)

Pantone's Colors for Spring

It's that time of year again when Pantone releases their selects for the top colors for Spring'13, just as Fashion Week gets under way. Their choices include Monaco and Dusk Blues, Emerald, Grayed Jade (my favorite), Linen, Poppy Red, African Violet, Tender Shoots, Lemon Zest and Nectarine. All of the shades work really well together, complementing eachother for a supremely sunny season.

(photo: courtesy of WWD)

A New Look for Sequins

We went through a big trend of wearing sequins for day, pairing sequin skirts (I have one from J. Crew) with chambray shirts for a great, unexpected daytime look. Now I'm seeing more iridescent and even matted paillettes and sequins that give more of a mermaid effect that's a new way to interpret the trend. Designers are doing it in opalescent shades and silvers and it's beautiful for a fancy night out and quite pretty with denim for a sophisticated daytime look that needs a little polish.

(photo: courtesy of Knittcat)

First Look: Gryphon for Spring '13

And so it begins! New York Fashion Week is here once again, giving us an inside glimpse into everything we're going to be wanting in Spring '13. I love the look from Gryphon. They may have started with just trenches way back when but what they've conceived of since is quite modern. You can see traces of what put them on a map but in real modern ways that are wearable and real and made for every day--ways that we'll want to wear the outerwear trend in a new, refreshing way.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

What's In My Bag

This photo is a not so subtle reminder that if the contents of my bag were to spill out, I would be horrified. And yet, this looks so chic. Why can't my stuff look so good? I always thing streamline looks better but I'm starting to think that wonderfully vibrant accessories in textured leathers (embossed or lambskin will do) would suffice. They'll endure, they won't show wear and tear and they'll show up when I look for them inside my large duffel of a bag. This is what I will now strive for.

(photo: courtesy of The Coveteur)

The Varsity Jacket

One of the hottest trends that is finally making it way into our closets after a few teasing runs down the runway is the varsity jacket. With soft leather sleeves and warm wool bodices, it seems like the ideal shape and fabric play for Winter. It's also somewhat cheeky, which means it's the perfect pairing with sleek pants, high-waisted flair jeans and anything streamlined. A great alternative to predictable outerwear.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

Wanting: Print Pants

Everyone's been wearing colored denim for a few years now and this Summer's been all about colorful printed pairs. So how best to transition the look into Fall now that the season has officially come to a close? I like subtle geometric prints in Fall and Wintry fabrics. Go for a pair that has darker colors on the outer part of the thigh, so it elongates your leg and avoid cropped versions so the effect is lengthening. They'll be a fun alternative to jeans that you'll want to grab daily.

(photo: courtesy of Net-a-Porter)

Required Reading

I did myself a favor last year and stopped buying Us Weekly. If it just so happens to land in my gaze, I'll read it, but at the newstand, I'll go for more substantial fare. That includes the likes of Rookie Mag which is similar to its predecessors in influence and inspirational material. From Tavi, the 13 year old blogger who's turned into a sixteen year old sensation and worldwide name before my very eyes, everything she churns out is worth taking a look at. This marks the year anniversary of her creative concept website. Happy Birthday!