Pre-Fall From Nonoo

Designer Misha Nonoo has been on my radar for some time. She created the sickest jackets and blazers with her previous label Nonoo Lyons and now she's ventured out on her own for a label simply called Nonoo. Recognized by the CFDA, the designer has such a knack for creating clothes that are feminine but not too precious, covered-up but with the subtlest exposure and altogether classic. Here are two of my favorite looks from her Pre-Fall collection. Really loving the tulip skirts and button-downs with cutaway detailing.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

How To: Creating a Cat Eye with Alexa Chung

I always love how effortless Alexa Chung's outfits appear, but she's not not put together when it comes to her makeup. This video lets us in on her cat-eye lining secrets, hoping to give us some cues to create the look for ourselves. I don't have a steady hand, but hoping her guidance will take me in the right direction.

(video from Fashionista)

Mulberry is Back At It

I've been a longtime fan of Mulberry and despite their head designer recently leaving, their Pre-Fall collection dazzled just the same. They always manage to do ladylike without feeling precious and the hems feature cropped pants and not-too-short skirts, which I happen to love. The bows and appliqué are all a perfect touch for essential black pants and a heather grey that will never go out of style. It's the perfect addition to their already stellar track record.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

The Belted Fur

As I continue to pine away for a new jacket, I do a double take on every new one I see that I like. I've been a fur mood lately and this one is a vibrant take on the tireless trend. It's in a really great hue that brings bit of spirit to the season and I particularly like the added belt. Fur jackets tend to add a bit of bulk because of their thickness and this makes sure that the waist is still cinched and accentuated. Paired with slim black pants and heels, the entire look is streamlined and uber-flattering. 

(photo: courtesy of Tory Burch Blog)

A New Jacket for Winter

The temperature in LA has reached a very cold 50 degrees in my parts and it's making me miss the days of bundling up in a down jacket in NYC. I'm constantly cold, so I'm thinking that maybe my lightly lined military jacket and unlined leather-sleeved blazer may not cut it much longer. I stumbled upon this amazing jacket, and I want it, I need it, I have to have it. How cute it is? The asymmetry of the zipper is great and that fur hood is a dream and designed for bundling.

(photo: courtesy of Sandro)

Au Naturale: Lipsticks I Love

I've become a bit of a nut when it comes to toxic-free beauty products. Once I found out what was in most things that I was slathering on my body and face, I decided to make some changes. A major offender is lipstick and gloss that's full of things we can't even pronounce. Enter Beauty Counter. Aside from their green model and totally toxic-free ingredients, they've created things I actually want to wear without feeling unstylish or that I'm leaving something behind. I've become particularly partial to their lip sheers that provide a hot hint of color with a dewy finish. Gives me a great pout and a punch of color.

(photo: courtesy of @DallasShaw)

Warby Parker x Leith Clark

I've always been a huge huge fan of Warby Parker, not just for their do-good eyewear concept but most importantly that the two cofounders met and started the business out of Wharton. They've done a few collabs in the past, but none have been as whimsical and full-on femme as this just released one with Leith Clark. The stylist and longtime editor of Lula worked with the brand to create these blue tinted-glasses, cool cat eye frames and a few more covetable pairs. The results are a great antidote to boring black pairs and a great look to add a dose of playfulness to any look. Plus, how cute does Zoe Kazan look in the ads?

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

The Cut Is Coming To Newstands!

Here's what I call making lemonade out of lemons. Upon hearing the news that New York Magazine was reducing their frequency from 1x/week to 2x/month, I was rightfully upset. Since living in Manhattan, the weekly has become one of my favorite go-to's. But, to ease the blow, there's also news that The Cut, a website no fashion fiend should be without, is going to now Cut coverage in each magazine, with what's hinted at as 6 dedicated pages to our favorite news, snarky gossip, and sartorial coverage. We're hoping the result is as well-executed as that of Style.com/PRINT which is a collectible each and every time it hits newsstands. Eagerly awaiting the new arrival.

(photo: courtesy of The Cut)

Menswear Inspired Suiting

I've realized more and more that I'm inspired by menswear-inspired dressing. I love a good blazer, a sweater vest and the look of androgynous separates. Not to mention I'll pick a pant over a skirt any day of the week. Turns out that Theory's thinking the same thing I am with their new menswear styling. They have started showing more looks like these, which feel a little Annie Hall or Ali McGraw in love story and show competing textures for a totally tailored look. This photo alone would inspire me to try on a two-piece suit, pair a turtleneck underneath in a deep, dark color and layer my shearling coat on top. It looks just right.

(photo: courtesy of Theory)

Layered Textures at Home

I've started thinking about what a new bed would look like for me and imagined every head board, frame, duvet cover and sheet set imaginable. I like clean and simple but I also love the look of a boho spread. I came across this image and am drawn to the mismatched patterns and prints. I'm sure they're all different textures too and yet they look effortlessly thrown together and somehow perfect. I'm now rethinking everything I thought before and may go the hodgepodge route.

(photo: courtesy of Lonny Mag)

The Shirt That Keeps Giving

I just came upon this post about a new shirt line that let's you customize your own shirt. Sounds like Savile Row, but this time it's difference. The new brand, DRESSHIRT lets you embellish your silk shirt with every collar you can imagine. From lace to colored silks to leather, you get more than just one shirt for the price of one. And for just $195, it's still cheaper than a lot in the market right now. An easy way to add a lot to your closet in a pinch.

(photo: courtesy of The Cut)

How To: Care For Coated Jeans

One of the biggest trends in denim (that refuses to die) is the onset of coated and treated washes. They look a bit more dressed up and can fake a leather legging in a pinch. The problem? They're infinitely harder to care for than your tried and true jeans and they show their wear quite quickly. If you're going to dry clean them, ask for environmentally-friendly treatment because the high heat in regular dry cleaning can warp the luster (despite the tag on most saying "dry clean only"). Hand washing is also super safe, just use a gentle soap and make sure they're inside out when cleaning them. And if you're into something out there, store them in the freezer for a quick bacteria-killing jolt.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

The Art of the Camel Coat

The temperature is dropping and it's becoming increasingly challenging to look chic while wearing a bulky wool coat. The camel coat is one that's always a hit season after season and I like how versatile the color can be--lightening things up as it gets darker and darker. To stand out against a sea of black, pair this longer wool number atop a sportier daytime look. I love the way this street style star paired hers with collectible kicks, some sequins a tee for a seamless mix of tailor, glam and sport.

(photo: courtesy of Because I'm Addicted)

Cool Collab Alert: RGB x Reece Hudson

I've recently become a fan of Reece Hudson's inventive clutches, where she mixes jewelry and bags all in one. The leather work is beautiful and they're getting more and more traction from the fashion set. They've since collaborated with equally hot nail brand RGB for a limited edition set of polishes that are meant to be worn while rockin' your favorite Reece. The rose gold and green gold colors are right on trend for the season--and can be worn even if you don't have a clutch in hand!

(photos: courtesy of Into The Gloss)

New Topshop Campaign: Meadham Kirchoff

You may have fashion fatigue, or be exhausted from the onslaught of cool collaborations, but here comes yet another, fast and furious with a launch slated for later this week. British designer Meadham Kirchoff has designed a quirky capsule collection for Topshop, marrying his eccentricities with street style fare that Topshop is now known for. It's a bit out there, but I think just the right person could take at least one of these pieces and integrate it into their look.

(photos: courtesy of WWD)

Great Daytime Look

If you're a fashion fan, there's a chance you tried--probably in vain--to shop the Isabel Marant for H&M collection last week. Clearly this blogger had early access and got a great blouse out of the collab. She's dressed in a perfect look for a crisp Fall day. The white coat is a great alternative to the black that everyone's wearing and those high-waisted jeans and hats are a great casual, but dressed-up look for strolling around the city. There's a sightly hippie and boho feel to it and yet the coat keeps it polished and dressed up. Definitely an inspiration.

(photos: courtesy of Trop Rouge)

Fashion Girls Do Eat

At least according to Cherry Bombe Magazine they do. This new magazine (just releasing it's second-ever issue) is where fashion and food collide. Thing super-chic girls who are dishing their favorite recipes and the most fashionable chefs around. The brains behind the mag used to be in fashion so the spin on each story is every bit as stylish as you'd hope. Only problem is that the infrequent issues make us hungry for more.

(photo: courtesy of Cherry Bombe)

Outfit of the Day

Before I get carried away lamenting the fact that I can't wear this look because it's too cold out, I just remembered that it actually hit 80 in LA today and this outfit is actually entirely appropriate for a night out. The oversized shirt: check. Wear it slightly askew and unbuttoned. Those black pants. They're utterly perfect. Rolled a bit at the hem they have a gym feel which makes me love them. And those shoes. The lived-in brown color isn't too matchy with the rest of the look and so it works...perfectly.

(photo: courtesy of The Glamourai)

The Perfect NY Look?

I really love this look. It's a bit dressed up for LA, but realizing it's just quite right for NY. I'm noticing that my closet isn't really complete without a great black leather jacket, preferably a moto style. I just feel like it adds a bit of street smarts to anything that it's paired with, particularly dresses and blouses at night. This is the perfect example of that with the jacket adding some edge to a sweet circle skirt and some feminine florals. This works great for a daytime full of meetings or a night out, both fit just right.

(photo: courtesy of Fashionista)

Kelly Wearstler for Thierry Lasry

I've realized that I've slowly started hoarding sunglasses without even realizing it. I think your sunglasses should fit your mood, and considering my propensity to crush, scratch and sit on said frames, it's best to have a few pairs to rely on. These super chic styles are a collab between interior designer turned design guru Kelly Wearstler and famed high-end lenswear purveyor Thierry Lasry. The result is something that's part old Hollywood, part Paparazzi-proof and every bit glam.

(photo: courtesy of Harper's Bazaar)

Makeup As Jewelry

Makeup's never looked this good. Thanks to the living beauty genius that is Pat McGrath, the latest from Dolce & Gabbana are lipstick tubes that are as decorative as vivid gems and jewels. Meant to be worn like your best set of accessories, these colors are vivid and bright--just what fall calls for. Tote them around and don't be afraid to let your true colors shine through.

(photo: courtesy of Beautycounter Blog)

It's Here! Style.com/PRINT

One of my favorite times of year is here! Style.com/PRINT has just released it's latest issue with direct reporting from the Spring '14 runways. With not one but two smoking covers, this will ensure that I stay housebound while I pour over every last sentence. Really insightful commentary and editorials are enclosed, so it's worth checking out for sure, especially if you are an avid fashion fan. Available at select newsstands and online!

(photos: courtesy of Style.com)

Learning Geometry

One of the biggest trends of the season has been the incorporation of geometric prints directly onto clothing. And a big contrast from florals and soft toiles, they can be a bit edgier. I like how this street style star is wearing the trend but instead of dark, deep colors for fall, the trend is interpreted in softer blues and greens and oversized prints that are still there but harder to distinguish if you're not looking. It's not trying too hard and yet it still looks and works so well. 

(photo: courtesy of Harper's Bazaar)

Florals For Fall

It's so easy to think of florals for spring and summer only. I usually want something light and airy and try and pair it with something a bit deep, darker or edgy (even if it's only a jean jacket) so that I can make it my own and not be too feminine. This deeper floral look is perfect for these fall months. In moody colors from the pantone color palette, they let you keep a feminine silhouette in print while still staying true to the color cues at play. I am a huge fan of the one at right with a leather jacket, those cognac colored oxfords or even a jean jacket and chuck taylors for the weekend.

(photo: courtesy of The Color Collective)

One To Watch: Isa Arfen

New designers seem to be a dime a dozen today with just about everyone trying their hand at launching a collection. But this new label that's come onto my radar seems like it just have staying power. With influences including fellow Brits Stella McCartney, a resume that's included time at Chloe, Louis Vuitton and Charlotte Olympia and designs that blend whimsy and sophistication all in one, she's quickly becoming one to watch. I love where she's from and where she's seemingly heading. Write her name down, you're guaranteed to hear it again.

(photos: courtesy of Isa Arfen)

The Perfect Almost Winter Look

As I take part in a major closet clean-up/overhaul, one of the most powerful questions I ask with each piece I get set to give away is whether or not it has staying power. This look is one part Winter and one part Summer, which means it's just my speed. The oversized grey sweater is what I gravitate toward when it gets cold and the slim white pants keep the lines clean and your silhouette streamlined. The heels give it a neutral touch. The sweater keeps it dressed-down while the heels dress it up all at once. It's the perfect combination that I'd be comfortable in all day--and night--long.

(photo: courtesy of Karla's Closet)

Launching ABC Home EComm

When I lived in NY, one of my favorite thing to do was get lost in the first floor of ABC Home & Carpet that was right around the corner from my apartment. The objets and designs and jewelry were never quite what I would buy for myself but they always inspired me and I loved their textured, ethnic feel. Now the famed multi-story home shopping destination has launched ecommerce so I can shop my favorite wares even though I've moved to the other coast. Peruse and get inspired. Their rugs are what they're known for and their print pillows are a quick and easy way to incorporate their "look" into your home.

(photo: courtesy of ABC Home)

Matching Your Shoes To Your Bag

It's an age old conundrum....Should I match my shoes to my bag? I am pretty sure my grandmother would say yes, but nowadays it's so chic to mix prints and go with colors that don't necessarily mesh together. So what's a girl to do. I think if you keep the rest of the look edgy enough and maybe make the two matching pieces different tones or different shades of the same color it can work, as evidenced here. I think you should wear your matching accessories either against neutrals like black or dark grey or something like an allover print so that it doesn't stand out too much. Happy matching.

(photo: courtesy of Atlantis Home)

Updated Sweatshirt Dressing

Sometimes come Fall, there's nothing you want to put on more than a fluffy, cozy sweatshirt. But how to make the unstructured silhouette work when you've got to dress it up for day--and work? This outfit does the trick. The embellishments on the shoulder of the sweater make it more than ordinary and skinny jeans counteract the unstructured shape of the sweatshirt. Paired with a totally jazzy furry jacket and statement accessories for a night out, you'd never know you were wearing something so comfortable. Subversive dressing at its best.

(photo: courtesy of Le Catch)

Closet Organization

It's this time of year that I realize just how much I have, just how small my closet really is, and just how much room a folded sweater takes up. Because I'm terrified of moths, I like folding my sweaters into protective boxes with cedar blocks, but I can never seem to fit everything in--nor have I mastered the art of the fold. This picture reminds me of what my closet should look like if I actually used that sweater storage hanging device for what it's intended for, instead of shoes. A gradient stack, with sweaters aligned by thickness and then by color would be the perfect solution to my knit conundrums.

(photo: courtesy of The Coveteur)

#BackToSchouler

If you have to go back to school, you might as well look good doing it. I remember getting the coolest backpack was one of the most important ingredients in the back to school look and this one from Proenza Schouler elevates that game to the next level. One part library and twenty parts luxe, this can be worn anywhere in between but with a fun, childlike flare. What better way to keep those dressed up designs and structured silhouettes look young in spirit?

(photo: courtesy of Proenza Schouler)

Spotlight On: New Jewelry Talent

The CFDA is a pretty cool thing. They are an organization dedicated to fostering talent among the next generation. This week they're showcasing the new wave of jewelry designers in NY and this picture is meant to spotlight just a little bit of the talent that's out there, and there is a whole lot there that is worth getting excited about. From fine craftsmanship to new ways of manipulating metals to exciting ways to wear accessories (which by the way, I seemingly need a refresher in), these are the talents that you should know because they're going to be big. Names to note: Mimi So, Simon Alcantara, Lulu Frost and Mish.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

The Perfect Skirt Shape

No matter who you are, the only skirt shape that I think really works is A-Line. Tight fitted skirts are so aggressive it makes me uncomfortable and those cocoon skirts that I got really into a few years back are nothing but unflattering (and yes, I have a pile staring at me in my closet). But looking at the shape of this quilted leather number and how could it be anything but flattering? The way the skirt flares just so makes your legs look smaller than they might actually be and the quilted leather adds texture without adding bulk. Plus, from Topshop, it's at the right price!

(photo: courtesy of Topshop)

Talking Shop: Betty & Isaac

Lena Dunham has taken on a different kind of project. She's working on a biopic of sorts on the iconic Bergdorf Goodman personal shopper Betty Halbreich, who is 85. Here's a clip of the legend (just think of what she's seen) discussing the merits of heel height with Isaac Mizrahi. Enough said.

Street Style Inspiration of the Day

I just recently rebought a pair of Converse Chuck Taylors after a few years out of the game and I can say without hesitation that it's the best purchase I've made in a long time. But reintroducing sneakers back into my look, when all I've generally opted for have been flats, has taken some getting used to. This street style snap gave me inspiration to cuff my jeans, wear a cute graphic tee and pair a boyfriend blazer over the entire look to pull it all together. The sneakers don't feel dressed down anymore, but rather just give it a new, preppy feel.

(photo: courtesy of Le Fashion)

Chic At Every Age

Let this woman show you how. We're decades apart, but I covet her style. Go figure. Watch to get inspired.

(video: courtesy of StyleLikeU)

New For Nails

Someone kindly pointed out to me over the weekend that a bare nail just doesn't work on me. I need a lustrous coat of polish to look polished myself--unfortunately it's just the way it works. So while I'm pondering my next manicure move (I've been partial to barely-there pinks for a bit), I came across this Chanel explosion of color that has just about every Fall-ready shade imaginable. A candy apple red is so big, so are opalescent versions of most of the shades you've been wearing. Metallics are again huge, and so is a medium-bodied red and a deeper, darker vampy which put Chanel polishes on the map.

(photo: courtesy of @hannahbronfman)

The Best In The West

As I get ready to head to Santa Fe in a few short weeks, I'm counting all of the different ways that sterling and different iterations of turquoise can be worn. I'm eager to stock up on a few special pieces that I'll have forever and have been noticing that more and more jewelry designers (costume and fine) are introducing sterling and "western" motifs into their collections too. Here, the sisters Dannijo bring a tough touch to their blinged out cuff that would otherwise be all glitz and glamour. It's the perfect contrast and key piece for any dressed up--or dressed down--look.

(photo: courtesy of Marie Claire)

Street Style: Spotted at #PFW

Look closely at the editor on the right. I love the way she's opted for an entirely new way to wear her scarf. Instead of haphazardly looped around her neck or even double knotted in an infinity look, it's strategically placed as an outfit accent. Criss-crossed across her chest, the look is fastened with a belt, mimicking one of Spring '14s most popular necklines. Instead of throwing a scarf on this season, take some time to make it look strategic like it's done here.

(photo: courtesy of Style.com)

Simple Trick: The Knotted Necklace

How many times have you reached into your jewelry box or small jewelry bag only to have every single one of your favorite chains tangled into a total snarl. This simple trick from Sous Style may just do the trick with a quick way to untangle even the most prickly of knots. Put a piece of small wax paper down and a few drops of baby oil. Place the tangled heap on top and use a few needle-like sticks to begin untangling. The oil will slick the pieces apart much quicker than your fingertips alone.

(photo: courtesy of Sous Style)

Look Better in a Blazer

There's something about Fall that seems to necessitate a wool blazer. Warm and wooly, it's the perfect antidote to the falling temperatures. I've become partial to schoolboy cuts with contrasting buttons (gold are my favorite). With a big of a preppy fit, elbow patches and contrasting collars if you're lucky, the schoolboy style is one that will forever be in fashion. Stock your closet for Fall with this indispensable addition that adds the perfect polish to any look.

(photo: courtesy of J. Crew)

A New Kind of Camo at Carven #PFW

After seasons and seasons of camo, there's a new kid in town and Carven has taken the familiar print and done it up this season in brighter colors and welcome alternatives. The cross-my-heart neckline has been a huge trend that's been on the runway since Resort and it continues here for Fall in these different designs. So if camo insists on continuing its design reign, opt for an alternative that's fresh in its color and execution. 

(photos: courtesy of Style.com)

On The Runway: New From Dries Van Noten at #PFW

Last season he gave us a luxe interpretation of grunge, pairing see-through plaid button-downs with soft chiffons and made rock look faintly feminine. This season, Dries Van Noten is making tribal look "in" once again with layered looks that are going to be in demand this spring. The textured knits, the layered colors and pairing of light and dark, plus the intricate beading is something that keeps this collection interesting--and one that's going to no doubt inspire others as the season progresses.

(photos: courtesy of Style.com)

Love Me Knots

This can be filed under "rad." The ever-iconic Hermes has just launched an iphone app that teaches people how to tie their iconic scarves. I've been to more than one apartment that's cast their scarves in a frame above a sofa, but if you could tie them this deftly, I think they'd have new life. Around the head in a wrap, as a knotted scarf around the neck, or as a signature sash around your favorite tote, these new knots are breathing new life into these hip-again scarves.

(photo: courtesy of Hermes)

The Modern Tee

As I've been trying to make the summer to fall switch in my closet, I've been realizing just how crucial the stack of perfect t-shirts is to the seamless transition. A great tee, as I've mentioned, can save you from season to season with versatile wear that can update with just the simplest tuck or accessory. This updated version from LnA has a very on-trend neckline that almost looks like a necklace giving this top 2-for-1 appeal. It's in a great dark color that's perfect for the season and has that extra bit of edge to keep things interesting for a new season ahead.

(photo: courtesy of Something Navy)