Personal Style Icon: Sloane Peterson

I remember the first time I saw 80's classic Ferris Bueller's Day Off.  It was at my grandma's lake house and my cousins and I sat around and watched the flick.  I was enchanted.  From that moment on, I wanted nothing more than to be Sloane Peterson, Ferris' glamourous and much adored girlfriend.  She was just so cool and stylish.  Played to perfection by Mia Sara, Sloane has still captivated me, years later.  Here is an homage to Ms. Peterson.

In the film, Sloane, her boyfriend Ferris, and his best friend Cameron ditch school and gallivant around Chicago, taking in all the city has to offer on a gorgeous spring day: a Cubs game, a parade, an art museum, fine dining, etc.

All the while Sloane trots around Chicago in the ultimate cool-girl uniform: baggy tweed shorts, a white leather fringed jacket, and chic boots.

Sloane's outfit, and her attitude, make her the girl every guys wants to date and every girl wants to be.

The best part of Sloane's look?  Many of the features would fit right in with today's trends, despite the fact that Bueller was released in 1986.  Start with her jacket.  While I have personally been on the hunt for my own white leather fringed piece for the better part of a decade, I have had no success.  But this fall little leather jackets popped up everywhere.  The Arden B Perforated Crop Leatherette Jacket, $58 is a cute cropped option.  Another good pick is the Silence and Noise Satellite Moto Jacket ($128) available at Urban Outfitters.  And what would this look be without some white fringed leather?  While a jacket has been hard to find, a good alternative is a chic bag.  Try the Jimmy Choo Fringed Hobo ($1144) available at mytheresa.com.

Now onto the shorts.  Sloane's are just baggy enough to be cool, and slightly high-waisted.  Try the Marc by Marc Jacobs "Tempest" Tweed Shorts ($197) available at Bloomingdale's, which are spot on.

And Sloane's slouchy white leather boots would be right at home in any 2010 closet.  For a super affordable black option, try the Charlotte Russe Suede Slouchy Boots ($29.99).  And while they have a small heel, I do think Sloane would appreciate the Easy Street Comfy Boot ($69.95) from endless.com.

To finish the look, grab your favorite white basic sweater and make it Sloane-approved by rolling up the sleeves.  Now all you need is tousled and luxurious brunette locks to channel Ferris' number one lady.

Well, that and a red Ferrari.


By the way, if anyone does locate a white leather fringed jacket, please let me know-immediately.

Look of the Week: Natalie Portman

While the lovely and lovable Natalie Portman rarely gets it wrong style-wise, I was blown away by the gorgeous frock she wore to a screening of her new film, "Brothers," a few weeks ago.

The stunning actress wore a pretty purple frock by Jason Wu.  But the true greatness of it is the way she worked in dashes of unexpected color-a teal belt, a yellow clutch, and richer purple pumps.  Fabulous!

Natalie's look is a great one to wear for any upcoming holiday party.  The rich jewel tones are ultra flattering and the pops of color are fun and festive!

While Natalie's designer frock may you set you back a pretty penny, you can still grab the look for less.  Start with the Rampage Strapless Rosette-Detailed Dress, $69 available at Dillard's.  While the flouncy bits may be on the bottom, this is still a great party-perfect look.  Another purple mini that may work is Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Ruffle Front Strapless Dress, $275 available at shopbop.com.  Those who don't favor purple may also appreciate a rich navy pick, like this French Connection Strapless Dress ($168) at Bloomingdale's.


The next step is of course, the accessories.  For shoes, I think the purple Aldo "Segura" Peep Toes, $80 are a great pick.  For a great belt option, pick up a teal version of The Sash by American Apparel ($16).  Or just hit up your local fabric store for a bolt of bold satin fabric!  And finally, the cheery yellow clutch.  The winter blues will fade away once you have this cheerful bow-bedecked Chinese Laundry "Sarah" Clutch, $41 under your arm.  Snap it up at endless.com.  And for those looking to go truly bold, neon yellow will do the trick in the form of Michael Kors Runway Clutch ($599) available at zapposcouture.com

So thanks to Natalie Portman you've got yourself the perfect party look!  Colorful and chic-two of my favorite things!

(Natalie's pic courtesy of gettyimages.com)

Go-To Gifts!

As the holidays creep closer and closer, I'm hoping to make your shopping even easier.  The best way to get things done fast?  Go-to gifts!  Gift cards are lame-they show a lack of originality and a lack of enthusiasm as well.  The only time they're appropriate?  When they are for Starbucks or a spa!

Instead, have a list of great gifts that work for almost everyone, not only for the holidays but for birthdays, housewarming, showers, etc.

For starters, I often go straight for candles.  I am a huge candle fan, but some brands are certainly better smelling, longer lasting, and more luxurious than others.  My two favorites are Jo Malone ($65) and Diptyque ($60).  I have given these candle brands as housewarming, birthday, and bridal shower gifts and have always gotten a positive response.  Both are available online and in finer department stores (think Barney's, Neiman Marcus, and Saks).

From Jo Malone (candles start at $65) I prefer  Orange Blossom (a delicious citrusy floral) or Grapefruit.  You can snap the whole line up at jomalone.com

Her bath oils and perfumes are to die for as well (one of my mom's favorite gifts!).

As for Dityque, I love Roses, Gardenia, or Lilas (lilacs).  All are lovely florals, but there are some spicier or more manly scents available as well.

These candles run at around $60.  If you are in Chicago, stop by Jayson Home and Garden on Clybourn, one of my FAVORITE stores (and a great spot to grab unique housewarming gifts).  If not, they can also be bought at barneys.com.





I also love to give costume jewelry as a great and easy gift.  For affordable and stylish picks, I favor J Crew and Banana Republic, which both offer some vintage inspired baubles that look pricier than they actually are.  Ditto for Kenneth Jay Lane (buy his pieces at Intermix stores, Nordstrom, or at shopbop.com).  I have also been paying attention to the new jewelry available at Ann Taylor Loft-quite cute and eye-catching!  Coach has great bangles too.  If you're looking to spend a bit more, I am partial to little blue boxes from Tiffany of course, especially their new key pendants.  These work because they are so many incarnations available-large keys, small keys, basic sterling silver, diamond encrusted, platinum, gold, gem studded, etc.  So there is something to satisfy every price point and taste level.

Is money no object?  I think any girl would be thrilled to get a orange box from Hermes!  Everything this fashion house touches becomes a classic!  Their silk scarves are TO DIE, as are their enamel bangle bracelets.  And of course, a Birkin or Kelly bag is nothing to scoff at!

The scarves are available online, at hermes.com.  They are also carried at Neiman Marcus.  However, you can snap up some deals and discounts at bluefly.com on several Hermes items.  The scarves are around $375, though they come in a variety of sizes.

The bracelets and bags are only available at Hermes boutiques and hermes.com

Another money-is-no-object item?  A Lanvin pearl and ribbon choker!  I adore these necklaces beyond words.  While they vary in price, the one at the right is from net-a-porter.com and will cost you $825.  I have also seen these elegant baubles at Barney's and online at kirnazabete.com  These necklaces are instantly recognizable and work with cocktail dresses or jeans and a tee.  Instant glamour!




But don't think I've forgotten the fellas!  Guys can be much tougher to buy for.  When in doubt, I go for super soft tees.  I love Junk Food tees.  They are available with sports logos, classic TV shows, superheroes, anything!  It's a great way to let you guy show some love for a childhood favorite.  Bloomingdale's carries the brand, as does Urban Outfitters.  If you're guy is on the skinner side, Aviator Nation tees are ridiculously soft.  I've seen them at Scoop stores, but again, they run small.

I also love Coach products.  Not the first thing that pops into your head for men, right?  But their wallets, key chains, and money clips are surprisingly stylish and mainly logo free.  The slim card case below is $48.

And, as I was saying, their key fobs.  They come in tough and manly sterling silver and my favorite is the bottle opener key chain below, $98.  Your guy will love the easy access to his beer on his next night out!

Just remember, of course, that the holidays are about giving as opposed to getting.  As long as you put true sentiment and thought behind your gifts, and show the effort you put in to make it special, you can feel confident that you're giving some good gift! And if there are still doubts?  Well, that's what gift receipts are for! :)

Trend Alert: Bodycon Dressing!

There is a saying that as the economy goes down, hemlines go higher.  That certainly seems to be true as of late, as runways and stores are flooded with the new form of body conscious (bodycon) dressing.  Skin tight skirts and dresses, also known as "bandage" styles, have been popping up on plenty of celebs.

Herve Leger is the master of this look.  Amanda Bynes and Victoria Beckham are both wearing the designs, above.  Leger dresses and skirts are skin tight, but instead of highlighting flaws they create curves and smooth lumps and bumps.  Basically like Spanx as outerwear!  Of course, such flattering shapes don't come cheap.  Several retailers carry the celebrity fave.

Start with Saks Fifth Ave.  I am quite partial to the Colorblock Bandage Dress, $1,150.  The citrus hues make me want to go on vacation!  I also love the more elegant one-shouldered silhouette of the Ombre Bandage Dress, $1,590.  When what you're wearing is so tight, showing ample amounts of skin isn't necessary (or even recommended!).

Want Herve looks for less?  Try this INC International Concepts Beaded Collar Sleeveless Bandage Dress for just $99 at Macy's.  Black has never been so un-basic!  If you're looking for more coverage, try a long-sleeved version, like the Marciano Miter Bandage Dress, $138.  And those who want some juicy color, try Wet Seal's Bandage Tube Dress, $27.80.

Of course, these dresses are not for the shy or timid.  A skirt may be a better way to ease into bodycon clothing.  I would pair a slim and tight little number with a looser, more blouson style top.  Tuck it in at the waist, but keep it loose on top.  Large or voluminous sleeves are a good idea too.  Below check out Rhianna in her Leger mini.                                

Leger minis aren't cheap either, though they do come in at a little less pricey than their dress counterparts.    For your own sexy little skirt, start with the Velvet Bandage Skirt, $1,150 available at net-a-porter.com  The velvet fabric makes it holiday party perfect!  Or you can keep things a but more basic with a simple black and gray Banded Mini Skirt, $600 at bergdorfgoodman.com.  And for a more office appropriate look, the High Waist Pencil Skirt, $650 from Bloomingdale's fits the bill with a more demure length.

For bandage skirts that don't cost big bucks, try the Barbie-fied hot pink Rachel Pally Bandage Miniskirt, $159 at shopbop.com.  Sexy stripes are available from Arden B with their Colorblock Bandage Miniskirt, $38.  And for something a bit more old-school and lady-like, you may appreciate the Topshop Lace Bandage Bodycon Skirt, $65.

Embrace your curves, feel feminine, and get body conscious!  Yes, it's a risk.  But some risks are certainly worth taking.

What I'm Reading: Rachel Zoe Report and Who What Wear

Email is a necessary part of life, but it can be a necessary evil as your Blackberry blows up minute after minute with ugly work emails.  Give yourself an email to look forward to!

I subscribe to daily updates from both stylist extraordinaire Rachel Zoe, as well the online fashion magazine, Who What Wear.  Both are free, and both are fabulous!

Let's start with Rachel Zoe.  Her website is fun and fashionable, but her daily emails, called the Zoe Report, are a delight.  The concept is simple: Rachel picks something she loves, usually fashion or accessories, but the occasional beauty product and book has crept in as well, and writes a brief description on why she loves it so.  Yes, many of the things she chooses are extremely pricey, but she also offers a feature called "Parallel Universe" which suggests a similar look for less.

Recent topics of the report have been an Alexander Wang skirt, Erickson Beamon earrings, Christian Dior boots, and the CFDA American Fashion Cookbook.

Of course, all posts are written in Rachel's signature style, and words like "fabulous" and classic expressions such as "I die" abound.

Basically this fun little newsletter is a highlight of my day.  Nearly all of Rachel's picks are things that I want and love!  Since it's free, there is really no reason to not subscribe, and I believe all fashion fans should-ASAP!








My other suggestion for fashion fans to subscribe to is Who What Wear.  The online magazine has occupied hours of my time.  Every day the wonderful ladies of WWW (Katherine Power and Hilary Kerr) send out an email with a different topic.  My favorite are their regular "What Was She Wearing: Answers" posts, which dissects celebrity style and shows exactly what they're wearing, as well as where to buy those looks or similar, less expensive ones.

The site tackles trends as well, from boyfriend blazers to sequins.  They also do affordable, such as their recent post on Party Pumps under $300.  And they send the occasional video, from their web series, Ask A Stylist.  Another regular post I love is their regular Style Spotlight posts, where they choose a fashionable lady (recent pick: Diane Kruger) and pick her best looks.

And, just as Rachel Zoe, all their daily fun is free!  Truly, these two subscriptions are what keep me going on some rough days-I know soon my Blackberry will buzz and and I will have some fashionable fabulous-ness to make me smile.

Subscribe to both the Zoe Report and Who What Wear at Rachel Zoe and Who What Wear.  Because everyone needs a fashionable inbox!

What I Just Bought

I am a huge fan of all things Disney.  There is something about the Florida theme park that makes me so genuinely happy.  It's true that anyone can be a kid there.  While I favor the decades long relationship between Mickey and Minnie Mouse (and have plenty of t-shirts to prove it!), there are other aspects of the Disney world that I love as well.

Of course, besides those classic black mouse ears, nothing is more iconic than the Disney Cinderella castle, which greets you upon entering the park.  In homage to the happiest place on Earth, I recently picked up this Disney Magic Castle Pendant from one of my favorite websites, fredflare.com.

If you are unfamiliar with the Disney Couture Jewelry line, you've been missing out.  This isn't something you'll find in the kids section of the Disney store at the mall.  It's cute, yes, but still quality.  This castle pendant has some serious heft.  It looks plenty playful with basic tees, but also adds some whimsy and fun to a cocktail dress as well.

If you'd like your own dose of Disney glam, check out some other baubles from Disney Couture.  Beauty and the Beast fans may appreciate this subtle homage to Lumiere.  The Lumiere Pendant ($58) is available at boutiquetoyou.com.  From the same site you can also grab the Snow White themed Poison Apple Necklace ($45).

Fans of Peter Pan will love either the Tink Pearl Necklace ($58) from karmaloop.com or the Tinkerbell Pixie Window Necklace ($78) from regencies.com.  Inscribed on the front it reads "Second star on the right, straight on til dawn."  

Other options?  Create your own charm bracelet (available at the official Disney website, as well as other locations) and play favorites with all your childhood classics and memories.

Either way, Disney Couture jewelry is a fun way to indulge your inner child.  My next planned purchase?  A ticket straight to Orlando!

Look of the Week-Alexa Chung

While out and about for the Luella show at London Fashion Week a few weeks ago, host of MTV's It's On with Alexa Chung, Alexa Chung was spotted wearing a perfectly layered fall look.

The stylish Brit has been catching my eye lately.  She always looks good, favoring short hemlines to show off her skinny mini legs and slim silhouettes.  She also has a penchant for Chanel bags-a girl after my own heart!-and is rarely seen without one.

This particular style choice is an ideal pick for fall transitioning.  She layered a basic black jumper, as the Brits call it, over a striped long sleeved tee.  The look is finished with simple black flats, a leather vintage-looking belt, and of course a Chanel bag.

To take this look from cool days to bitterly cold ones, just add tights!  It can also work for day or night.  For nighttime partying, add more jewelry and bolder shoes, either a sky high heel or embellished flats.

To get this look for yourself, start with the black dress.  A good place to start is at shopbop.com with the Dolce Vita "Wren" Jumper, $144.  The Generra Shift Jumper in Black, currently on sale for $121.50 at couturecandy.com, is also a similar pick.  And this Kensiegirl Double Knit Jumper in Black, $78 works because of the buttons.  It's available at urbanminx.com.

Next, add the layering piece-your striped sailor tee.  I adore this The Lady and the Sailor Raglan Tee, $85 for its looser look.  Very laid back cool.  You can buy it for yourself at madisonlosangeles.com.  For a slimmer fit, try this striped number from St. James $135, available at calypso-celle.com.  And of course, a preppy stripe story wouldn't be the same without Tory Burch.  Her Pigadia Tee, $125 is available at Saks.

To compete the look, don't forget a pair of chic flats.  Alexa's are Chanel, but for a less pricey option, look to the suede Elizabeth and James "Jessi" Flat, $225 or the leather Nine West "Naughty" Flat, $59, both of which are available at piperlime.com.

Alexa's bag is a classic Chanel, but if you wanted the quilted look for less, try the TopShop Double Quilted Cross Body Bag, $50 from topshop.com.  Want a dose of color?  Marc Jacobs has a similar bag available in hot pink with his Sinlge Quilted Bag, $525 at net-a-porter.com.

And finally, the belt.  If you have a vintage one, more power to you!  But if not, you can buy a similar one.  Try the Braided Belt, $29.50 from American Eagle.  Or for a more bohemian option, check out this braided belt from MICHAEL Michael Kors, $45 available at Macy's.

With this look you are ready for anything fall throws at you.  It's on!

A New Obsession: Gem Jewelry Boutique

I am always looking to support and raise awareness for local Chicago boutiques.  There are some good ones, as well as some duds, but there isn't any other one like Gem.

Gem is located in the fantastic shopping area of Bucktown, Damen Ave.  (1710 N. Damen, to be exact).  They specialize in antique and vintage jewels and baubles, and many pieces are one of a kind or only available in limited quantities.  Definitely something I appreciate-I love having things that no one else does!  

Every time I walk through the doors into this tiny little boutique (just a few doors down from Marc Jacobs!), I want to buy nearly everything in sight!  All the pieces are so interesting and eye-catching.  

My most recent buy was their Pica Bronze Vintage Letters.  The letters range in sizes and prices (small letters are $65, medium are $70, and large are $75).  You can also buy various different chains, a bangle bracelet, or a keychain to string your letters along.  I bought a large J and a small G for my initials, but there's no limit on what you can buy-spell out names, words, put your initial alongside your man's, whatever you'd like to do!  That's what's so cool about this piece-even if others buy the letters, odds are good no two necklaces or bracelets will be the same!

I would definitely suggest you check these out.  It makes a great gift for anyone, but new moms will love them with their kid's initials, or a recently married friend may enjoy one encompassing her new and old initials.  And of course, it makes a great romantic gift as well.

Other things I'm loving?  The Brass Ball Locket ($88) is really cool and the price isn't too bad.  The Hand Forged Brass Bangle ($35) is a great find as well.  The price is ideal, and these bangles make a classy edition to either cocktail dresses or jeans.  As for a find I just see gracing the slender hand of super-stylist Rachel Zoe, I'm sure she would just DIE for Vintage Sterling Silver Snake Ring ($200).

Of course, when it comes to antiques and vintage, things can't always be inexpensive and Gem reflects both ends of the price spectrum.  I adore the Art Deco style, so the 18k Gold and Platinum Diamond Ring jumped out at me.  Sadly, at $850 it's a bit farther out of reach.

Of course, this is just a small sampling of what you'll find in store.  While you can shop online (www.gemjewelryboutique.com), I highly recommend stopping in to view the baubles in person and see what else they have in store.  It's truly a shopping experience!

Icon Status: Suri Cruise

It's not a secret that I love Suri Cruise. The mini fashion icon consistently looks great. Her haircut started a trend for Christ's sake! Little Suri may only be 3, but she is a fashion icon in the making.

 


Suri's style is simple: she sticks with clean shapes with a pop. Her a-line and shift dresses, full skirts, and long coats are classic and fashionable staples. But she isn't afraid of color, which is what sets her apart. Suri often looks ravishing in red, but also wears blue, pink, and purple with abandon.  She has even been seen in metallic gold-a twist for a toddler.

Suri also knows the importance of prints.  Whether hot air balloons dotting a full skirt, or florals, Suri pulls off prints with style to spare.

Her look is feminine and fun through and thorough.  Not a fan of pants, she is always in skirts and dresses, with the occasional legging or tights on underneath if the weather calls for it.

And of course, she always has the perfect accessory.  While other kids her age are often seen toting nothing more than a baby blanket, Suri one-ups then with her color coordinated purses and shoes (even high heels!).  She has also been seen wearing tiny rings and bracelets-a bold look for anyone, but especially a tot.

In fact, her look is so sartorially on point that she regularly shows up mom Katie Holmes!

                                          Want to emulate Suri's style your own (grown-up) way?  Try classic, Jackie O-inspired shapes, don't be afraid of prints, and never under-estimate the placement of a killer accessory!

Were Suri a bit older, I think she would favor this J Crew Tricolor Fantine Dress ($198) for its full skirt and floral applique on top.  I could also see Suri loving this Gold Coin Skirt ($150), also from J Crew.  She loves some sparkle and shine and this party perfect skirt would fit in seamlessly with her wardrobe.  Another dress I could envision Suri in is this Ann Taylor Loft Plaid Ruffle Chiffon Dress ($79.50).  It combines her love for girlish accents with a fun print.  Ballerina Suri would also look adorable in La Rok's Punk Party Tulle Skirt ($218) which she would rock in hot pink.

Another favorite for the toddler is the Mary Jane shoe.  Channel Suri in adult versions of the classic shape.  Suri loves red and Bettye Muller Ceremony Velvet Mary Jane ($355) certainly fits the bill, but is updated with a high heel.  And you know once Suri is old enough she'll be rocking Christian Louboutin with their killer red soles.  This Alta Iowa ($855) pair from Barney's is a good pick.  And while they may not be Mary Janes, these Missoni Baby Bow Flats ($400), available at piperlime.com would definitely feed into Suri's love of color, bold prints, and bows.

Long live Style Queen Suri!  

                                                      

(Images of Suri from gettyimages.com and perezhilton.com)

Look of the Week-Rachel Bilson

The always adorable Rachel Bilson is one of my style icons.  She manages to look both cute and fashionable, not an easy task.  She just sort of has an it factor when it comes to clothes-what works on her petite frame, what colors, what proportions.  Case in point: her outfit from a Madewell and Lucky magazine event at the Bar Marmount in LA earlier this week.

The combination of the high waisted skirt and loose fit tank is fresh, but really gets me is the mix of prints.  I don't think I'd be brave enough to pair polka dots with graphic stripes, but Rachel does and does it well.

The mix of prints work for two reasons: one, the polka dots are small and not so out there.  Two, the prints are in the same color family, so neither one overwhelms the other.

To complete the look, Rachel threw on a simple black cardigan, opaque black tights, and a slouchy leather tote bag.

For your own version, start with this Karen Zambos Ruffle Top, $225 available at couturecandy.com  The print is dark so the dots aren't quite so cutesy.  Another great pick is the Tory Burch Tanya Blouse, $195 from Nordstrom.  I'm also a fan of this See by Chloe Dots Printed Tank ($120) from shopbop.com  The contrasting black and white print is very unusual and fun.

For the skirt, check out this one from Max Studio, on sale for $58.  While the stripes are technically sequins on this Banana Republic Skirt ($79.50), the print still works.

While Rachel picked these two prints, any ones will work as long as they are within the same color family and of similar sizes.  Oversized dots or super wide stripes would not work in this case, for example.

Now just add the accessories (surely you have tights and a black cardi in your closet!) and some fashion confidence and you're good to go!

(Image of Rachel from gettyimages.com)

Trend Alert: Boyfriend Blazer

While perusing a favorite web site recently, style.com, I kept noticing time and again that many celebs had chosen to pair their fancy cocktail and party frocks not with boring black cardigans but with oversized boyfriend blazers.

It's a cooler, hipper alternative to the cardigan, or shrug, or even the pashmina or wrap.  At a party in LA celebrating the opening of the new Chloe store, Chloe Sevigny paired a crisp white blazer with a shorts suit.

See how she scrunches up the sleeves?  That's a cool way to wear your blazer-slightly rumpled.  For a similarly cool look, try Free People's Drapey Knit Blazer ($128) at freepeople.com.  It hangs in an interesting way.  Or try Talbot's Textured Jacket.  On sale for just $62.99, it manages to be loose while still crisp.  And don't be afraid to wear white after Labor Day!

Also at the same Chloe party, two lovely ladies paired their looks with simple black blazers; the always lovely Jamie Lynn-Sigler and Mateo's baby mama Camila Alves.

Both girls have worn the same blazer in different ways.  Jamie wore simple skinny jeans and a basic white tee.  The whole thing is pretty simple, but it's chic and it works.

As for Camila, her bohemian full skirt is toned with the blazer and neutral accessories.  Her nude clutch and heels are easy breezy.

Neither girl looks like she tried too hard, but both look cool and fashion-forward.

Want a similar blazer?  Try these on for size!  The Zoa Boyfriend Blazer ($194) from nationaljeancompnay.com looks super similar to the ones above.  I also dig this ABS Luxury Collection Boyfriend Blazer ($305) available at Nordstrom.  And for a under $100 option, I love Aqua's Double-Breasted Boyfriend Blazer ($88) at Bloomingdale's.

The key is to make sure your blazer is loose and laid-back without being baggy and making you look misshapen or heavy.  Roll or scrunch the sleeves for an especially cool look, and make sure it hits around hip level-if it's shorter it may come across too office.

Blaze away!

Tights Are Right

With fall comes winter, and with winter comes cooler temperatures-okay, freezing temperatures.  However, one of my favorite parts of winter is tights!  Besides the obvious fact that they keep your feet warm, tights are a great way to update a boring dress or skirt.  They can also be the perfect thing to tone down an overly short dress or frock that could otherwise be deemed over the top.

And there are also lots of fun tights to choose from this year as well!  No longer relegated to black or opaque, colors and patterns are making a seriously fun and exciting comeback.  Here is just a sampling of my favorites.

For embellished tights, look no further than Cynthia Rowley Embellished Tights ($250).

Fresh off the runway, they are basic black tights with a kick-embellishments and beading all along the front.  Elaborate and so different from anything else in your hosiery drawer.  For another option try these Free People Rhinestone Lace Tights ($24) available at freepeople.com  Lace with a kick of rhinestones trailing down the back.

The latest and greatest way to wear tights is with serious patterns-seriously fun ones!  I am currently coveting these Blank Dinosaur Tights ($72), available at pixiemarket.com  Yes, those are tiny dinos printed on them!  Adore!

For other fun patterns, try Blank Soldier Tights ($72) also from Pixie Market's site, with, you guessed it, tiny toy soldiers printed all over them.  I am also obsessing over the Henry Holland Alphabet Tights ($17) available at figleaves.com.  These sheer tights are updated with the letters of the alphabet printed randomly all over.  Cute-and educational!  Also from figleaves.com the Jonathan Aston Animal Print Tights ($12) are great.  Purple leopard print?  Love!  And for those who need some sparkle (yours truly included!) look no further than TopShop's Glitter Dot Tights ($24) which you can snap at up topshop.com.  Black with tiny silver polka dots.

And of course, you can't go wrong with basic black.  They are a classic for a reason!  I've found that the very best out there are by Wolford.  Their Chicago shop, on Oak St., gets regular stops from me, and every winter I pick up two new pairs of their Satin de Luxe Tights ($65) available at most major department stores-I've seen them at Barney's, Saks, Bloomingdale's, and Neiman Marcus.  At first glance you may think-"$65 for tights?!" but let me convert you.  They are the softest, most flattering tights you'll ever wear.  Exceptionally soft, leg-lengthening, and as a bonus, a seam running up the back of each leg.  Sexy!  I look forward to the cool fall day when I slip into a silky pair for the first time.

This is just a (very) small sampling of the amazing hosiery that is available this season.  May your winter-and your legs!-be warm!

Lustworthy-What I Want Now!

Christian Louboutin is the master.  He can make a flat look as beautiful and delicate and feminine as a high heel-not always an easy feat.  Well, he has really outdone himself with the Fred Flat Glitter ($595), available at Barney's New York or net-a-porter.com

These babies are somehow the perfect combination of menswear and The Wizard of Oz, with a dash of fashionista cool tossed in.  The real question is, can I pull them off??

They are for sure bold.  And they are more than likely the closest I'll ever come to wearing gym shoes out in public (they do have laces after all!).  Obvi they exceed my price range, but maybe if I get lucky they'll go on sale.

After all, we all deserve some pure magical fun on our feet!

Look of the Week: Rhianna!

It's Fashion Week in Paris, which means there is so shortage of great looks as celebrities, socialites, and models descend on the city to sit front row for famed French houses like Louis Vuitton and John Galliano.

But the look of the week comes from the Frenchiest of French labels, Chanel and Rhianna.

Rhianna of course wore head to toe Chanel, but she jazzed up her simple blue tweed skirt and white bustier with gobs of pearls and a killer logo-ed muff.  Her bold berry lips are pretty fierce too.

While obvi the look is far from the budget of the average fashionista, it is possible to get it for less.

For starters, try the Kimchi Blue Zipper Dress ($58) at Urban Outfitters.  The tweed bottom and basic white tank shape on top are on par with the trend.

Another skirt to try is the  Nanette Lepore Herringbone Skirt ($295), available at Nordstrom.  It has a great flirty ruffle near the waist, which can help to hide some pooch.  Pair this skirt with the Jezebel Caress Bustier ($45) at barenecessities.com

Of course, Rhianna's outfit is completed with her mass of pearl necklaces.  Mix all different lengths pearl sizes to get a similar mismatched, but still chic, look.  I adore the  J Crew Ribbon Tiered Pearl Cluster Necklace ($195).  The ribbon tie is a great bonus.  I also love the bow on this Charlotte Russe Necklace ($15.50) as well as the mix of pearls and chains on this Joomi NYC Multi Pearl and Chain Necklace ($195) from maxandchloe.com  Whether real or faux, pile on the pearls to complete this look.

Last but not least, a bold lip is the perfect complement to this ladylike but edgy outfit.  Try Lipstick Queen in Berry Sinner ($18), available at Barney's.

Gotta love Fashion Week!

What's New-Kate Spade Clothes!

Kate Spade has been known forever as the go-to spot for cheerful and colorful flats, girly heels, and those ubiquitous nylon totes (c'mon, you know you had one in high school!).  Well, Kate Spade herself sold the brand several years ago, and it has since been reinvented.  


First there was the awesomely adorable and stylish costume jewelry line.  Now, though, there are clothes.  In the past they have introduced a few key pieces each season, but Fall 09 is the first whole line, from  outerwear to skirts to blouses.


While a lot of the pieces are great, there are a few key standouts.  Like this Madeline Sequin Cardigan. 

It may be hard to tell via photo, but this cardigan practically moves, shakes, and shimmies.  Plus, the waist-cinching tie is super flattering, emphasizing your natural curves.  It was love at first sight for me, but sadly the price, at $425, is a bit intense.

Another hit is the Courtney cashmere cardigan ($295).  

My favorite color is purple, so this immediately jumped out at me.  Upon closer look though, the bow shaped pockets are an adorable extra touch.  This is a great peice to take you from day to night, or for running errands on a Sunday morning.

And, oh this blouse!  The Madeline blouse ($245).

At first glance, this blouse has a lot going on.  Ruffles, polka dots, it's definitely not for wallflowers.  But I love it!  This look is very office-centric, but it can work just as well with jeans for a night out.

Kate Spade's clothing line is available at Kate Spade boutiques and the Kate Spade website (www.katespade.com), Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom.  And there's much more cute and fun clothes where these 3 looks came from!

What I'm Reading......

If you've been to my home, it's no secret that I love coffee table books. I have them on subjects as varied as the Rolling Stones and swimming pools. But most tend to lean towards the fashion world. While I regularly swap out my books, from season to season, one that always has a place of honor is Influence by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen.

The book is a very interesting concept.  It's split in half-Ashley's half and MK's half.  Each twin has chosen a handful of people, from fashion designers to photographers, that influence and inspire them.  In turn, each influencer agreed to sit down for an interview with the twins to talk about what inspires them!  They even got some greats to agree, like Karl Lagerfeld and Diane vonFurstenburg and Christian Louboutin. The interviews are fascinating and eye-opening, and the photos are great, whether professional glossy pics or grainy Polaroid's snapped by the girls themselves.

Far and away, though, my favorite chapters are the ones about each twin.  They interview each other and share photo collages of their favorite things.  If you're an Olsen fan like myself, this book is a must have.  But even if you aren't, the photography and content is well worth a spot on your bookshelf.  It's a rare chance to get inside the brains of some fashion geniuses.  

Here's a shot of  one of MK's photo collages-some of her amazing sunglasses.

And here are two gorgeous shots of Ashley from her chapter in the book:

So GO BUY IT!  Available at amazon.com, starting at $27.

Sequins!

This fall, I CAN'T STOP buying and obsessing over sequins!  There are the perfect way to add a bit of glamour and flash to your life.  They just scream party and fun and dancing all night.  So far I have gone a bit sequin crazy with the Aqua line at Bloomingdale's (FYI-amazing line, everything is so on point and affordable).

This blazer ($198) has built in shoulder pads, which also works with the 80's trend all over the place.  But the sequins are dark, so this piece is less flashy.  From a distance you can't even really tell that it is sequins, but up close it's pretty bananas. It's really cool and reminds me of Mick Jagger.

Another fun piece is this sequined skirt ($88), also an Aqua piece from Bloomie's.  It comes in metallic gold, but my favorite is the silver version.  It looks like a shimmery disco ball.  But with a skirt this flashy, everything else has to be basic.  Black tights or leggings are ideal to tone it down.  A basic white tee is the perfect topper, and chunky and loud silver jewelry is an ideal complement.  Flash and dash!

TopShop is also chockfull of sequined pieces.  Currently I am obsessing over this sequined polka dot tee ($135).

Perfect for a casual date night at the movies, I envision this with skinny jeans and a clutch.  It doesn't need much else-the fact that it's sequins AND polka dots means it doesn't need jewelry, while I would definitely pair it with a single bangle since I can't leave the house without some kind of jewelry.  If you need accessories, keep them to your hands and wrists-a necklace would be too much.

Another sequined tee I can't get enough of is this little doozy by 3.1 Phillip Lim.  While I love and covert everything by Lim, my soulmate, this tee is one of my faves for fall/winter.  Sadly the price ($525) is out of my range but I envision myself as a bon vivant, running carefree, pairing this tee with J Brand's legging jeans in black (available at chickdowntown.com).

And now, get ready to D.I.E.  Marchesa, master of beautiful dresses that make me weep, has this utter confection of a frock, available at Neiman Marcus.  I have nowhere to wear it and obvi will never be able to afford it, but it makes me die and gasp for air.  Check it:

And if you're not someone who likes being in the spotlight (because sequins DO make you stand out), try a subtle scarf.  TopShop's is a great update for jeans and a tee.  It takes the place of a statement necklace.

Hopefully this post has encouraged you to try sequins, even if it's just a little dash here or there.  I love them and you'll feel so fabulous and fun wearing them!  Just tone everything else down to avoid overkill.

Hip hip hooray for sequins!!!!!!