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)

Creative Clutter at Work

I'm a neat freak so the notion of disarray can be daunting to say the least. But, some of the most creative minds are able to capture brilliance in heaps of creative clutter, where they draw their inspiration. Case in point is Jenna Lyons of J. Crew who manages to find beauty and ideas amidst all of these books and tear-outs and sketches and designs. An equally great shot of a total genius at work and an idea of how you want to work at the same time.

(photo: courtesy of The Cut)

A Look at the Moto Jacket

This time of year every single blog, magazine and retailer is telling you why you should buy a little leather jacket, the more moto, the better. Embellished with biker details and a few zippers for effect, this moto style has been the resounding favorite in a rich black leather for years now. The only problem? Seems like everyone's wearing the same thing. So how about opting for a version in a rich cobalt, or patchwork of blues and instead of shearling for a suede with shearling detailing? This version does the trick with a pretty combination of them all.

(photo: courtesy of Le Catch)

Spotted: New Shades from Lookmatic

I always look at those who wear amazingly bold and colorful sunglasses with envy. How can they do it? How can they pull it off? I always get stage fright since, after all, they go on your face. But I love the pale subtlety of these Lookmatic sunglasses. Yes, they're bold but they do so in a color that would nicely blend into my skin tone and give me a bit of character without overdoing it--or make it appear as if I am trying that hard.

(photo: courtesy of Teen Vogue Tumblr)

How To: Weekend Chic

 I feel like this is a way better version of how I usually look on weekends. I've been wearing my oversized boyfriend jeans to death and as a result the holes are gaping, the wash is now too light and they don't quite hold up for non-super casual affairs. These are a bit more refined and when paired with a slick crewneck sweater and velvet loafers can pass as suitable weekend attire. Adding a slouchy daytime clutch would be my first choice for a day of errands.

(photo: courtesy of Fashion Vibe)

Fall Look of the Day

I love everything about this look. At first the skirt/shorts kind of reminded me of those Roody Kazoody bloomers I used to wear in grade school and I got afraid--instantly terrified. But upon closer look I realized there was something sweetly feminine about them. The hemline was perfect, the way they drape are instantly flattering and the print plays perfectly with the buttoned up appeal of the top portion of the outfit and the black booties. The balance is just right.

(photo: courtesy of Damsel in Dior)

Tiger: The New Leopard

I'm just as guilty as anyone of overindulging in my penchant for leopard with an overused black and white leopard scarf that has definitely gotten its mileage. I'm on the verge of getting a pair of leopard flats but before I do I'm thinking of reconsidering now that I saw how different a tiger print. I don't remember anyone else wearing it and the colors are really versatile--and flattering. It's something to consider when stocking up on Winter accessories, and going for something uniquely fresh this time of year.

(photo: courtesy of Mulberry)