NYFW

So, I am not attending NY Fashion Week.  But, I am going to qualify with...this year.  It is my loftiest goal for next year.  It is Mecca for anyone in my business, and I cannot wait to witness it all first hand.  That said, if I were attending, these are just a few of the looks that would fill my bag.  Simple silhouettes, in beautiful textiles, with timeless accessories.  Sadly, since I will not be present, I will be anxiously anticipating all the fabulous that Instagram will have to offer!  
It's the most gorgeous time of the year...

Urgent! Sale in Progress!

We interrupt this moment...for a fabulous sale!  Every amazing J.Crew item shown is so Fall-ready, and so on sale!  It varies whether it is marked down in store vs. online.  I strongly recommend taking a field trip to your nearest location STAT!  They will sell through quickly!  Every single item is on my personal wish list, and any would make a perfect gift...especially for yourself!  I die for every piece of jewelry shown.  Stunning!  The shoes are perfectly amazing!  Every top is a classic...forever.  
Most items shown were found in store, however, the website has released a ton of new sale styles as well.  So, go forth and shop!
Enjoy, my friends!

Striking Stripes

Some pieces are more difficult to say goodbye to than others...and this neon stripe party skirt is absolutely one of them!  The color is outrageous!  September is always bittersweet...so many gorgeous, rich styles for Fall, yet we're forced to pack away beauties like these.  I don't have a huge demand for actual "party" skirts...I love wearing mine as day wear, with a great denim shirt or even a simple white tee.  The added bonus of pockets make it a no-brainer for "Happy Hour."  Lip gloss, i.d., credit card and a little cash...no clutch necessary!  I will miss this lovely until next spring!

Additionally, let's share a moment of silence over my beloved Michael Kors aviators...they, inexplicably, came out of the case cracked yesterday...so sad!

Will need to replace STAT!

Back to School...

Aaaah...Back to school.  The magical time of year that we all stock up on the most "collegiate" items we can find!  It's a time for new beginnings and, despite being out of school for a "few" years now, I still get the rush from preparing for it.  I'm blessed to have children to shop for but, despite that, I still find myself coveting my own "back to school" list.  These are my must haves for a season of new academia and football games...

1 .Cambridge Satchel Company (ASOS  $196)
2.  Emblem Baseball Cap (J.Crew $48)
3.  Barbour Waxed Parka (Barbour $510)
4.  Cluster Wedges (J. Crew $198)
5.  Collegiate Sweater (H&M $23)
6.  Camo Scarf (J Crew $55)
7.  Biella Tassel Loafer (J.Crew $268)
8.  Toothpick Jeans (J.Crew $135)
9.  Hunter Rain Boots (Net-A-Porter $140)
10.  Cable Boyfriend Beanie (ASOS $20)
11.  Super Ciccio frames (J.Crew $167)

Go War Eagles!

For the Kiddies...

I had high hopes to post the amazing new Crewcuts looks on Friday.  Unfortunately, back to school decided to blindside me, as is yearly tradition.  So, instead of sharing the fun with you, I was running out and about pulling together all the "supplies" required for three children to return to school in one week!  Thankfully, J.Crew has taken out all the guesswork in what they will be wearing.  I mean, really?  Camo, fur and glitter...all in one look!  So adorable and chic!  This was the showstopper at the front door!

Loving all the neon amethyst!  It's a gorgeous pop of color against these neutral navy looks.  Have you seen three chicer girls anywhere??

With my girls, the answer to "What's your favorite color?" is always the same for both...pink and purple.  It's rare that I incorporate both colors in one outfit but, in these shades, it's so fresh and fantastic!  Check out those purple MacAlister boots!

This sweater!!!  There are no words...so beautiful!  I'm envisioning it for picture day, just as it's shown.  I'm finishing with the biggest ivory hair bow I can find!

We've certainly discussed the importance of camo this season...at length!  I love that they're carrying it through for the boys.  The slimmer pant silhouettes are amazing, paired with cool t-shirts that the kiddos love as much as we do!

My son is already begging me for these New Balance sneakers, and this incredible camo coat!  At three years old, I don't think we'll find the exact color match in his size for the shoes...but there is no way we're missing out on the coat!  P.S. There is a parka version for the girls!

These Herschel Supply Co. backpacks in brightly colored rugby stripes, and the ever-present camo, are perfect for hauling books to and fro.  Bonus:  They'll still look cute on any moms and dads that end up doing most of the heavy lifting.  I can't be the only one...

So, there is the glimpse into Fall for Crewcuts.  Most of this fabulous product is available online right now!  And, as if that wasn't enough, J.Crew is offering 25% off a purchase of $150 or more through today...so get shopping!

And, for my guys out there, this last photo is a glimpse into the Men's Shop.  It's a smaller space, so there isn't as much dressed on display.  The shawl collar sweater on the table, though...AMAZING!!!

October...not to be missed!

 I know everyone is still obsessing over the September Style Guide, but October is officially on display at the Plaza!  I have to admit, at first glance, I wasn't so sure about the newest delivery.  I mean, September was SO good!  But, rest assured, I've come to my senses...it's gorgeous!  Like this heavily jeweled sweatshirt (not making it through airport security in this lovely!)  Layered with a chambray, and these amaze zippered toothpicks...perfection!  And, if you're up to date on my Instagram, you know I'm obsessed with the shoes in gold!  The silver is gorgeous as well!  And the baseball cap grounds it with that "girl next door" sass!

 Believe it or not, this is the same sweatshirt in gray with clear crystals...stunning!  I love it shown monochromatically, with just a punch of color in the scarf.  And...the shoes again!!

I featured this amazing tweed blazer with the last concept, but this look was too beautiful to not feature!  The Swiss dot tuxedo shirt is so pretty, and paired with a super dark, super skinny (toothpick, of course!) jean, it is a truly refined look.  Love the metallic cap toe on the shoe!  Gorgeous! 

 This was definitely a jacket that I was on the fence about.  The  military styling seemed a little too "Ralph Lauren" to be at J.Crew.  But, styled with this geometric print blouse, and leather trim tuxedo Pixies, I've had cause to reconsider.  And, truth be told, the leopard pointed toe pumps likely sold the whole look for me...must own them, immediately!

Someday, we'll talk about the most amazing patterned jeans that I purchased at J.Crew this summer.  They were, very literally, magical pants that slimmed everywhere, and looked amazing!  They were purchased at an absurdly great price, and I adored them!  Sadly, there was an unfortunate incident, involving a Doberman and some red wine...so they've been laid to rest.  The dog's been spared. ;-)

I will spend the rest of my days searching for their equal.  And, I will probably start with these.  The print is so fresh and unique, and you could color pop with any color in existence!  I also love the coat.  The lighter weight, beautiful shade of navy, and asymmetrical zipper make it staple for Fall outings.   And, I think, we're starting to recognize the shoe to have this season...

 I considered not featuring this look, since the pic is not great...but decided it was a necessity.  Stripes?  Check!  Leather sleeves?  Check!  Amazing military pencil skirt?  It's all here...and styled with my birthday wish list shoes!  This is a great wear to work look, as well.  So chic!

This skirt is amazing!  The herringbone is perfect, and the black side panels make for the slimmest line!  This blouse will be the staple wardrobe finisher of the season.  It comes in a great variety of colors, and the silhouette works with everything!  Everything!  The necklace was another piece I didn't immediately fall in love with...but, trust me. the attraction is building!  It is rare to find a jewelry piece that is completely black, and it is striking!

I adore this intarsia sweater!  The pattern is unique and fun...and the grey and white keeps it from being too busy.  The necklace, although not shown well in this picture, is stunning!  Period.  And it's a great look with the flannel moto skirt, that is so on trend right now. 

This bag is MAJE!  The rich green suede is gorgeous against the black leather!  And it is the perfect amount of oversized, without being cumbersome.  An absolute necessity!

I so wish this sweater would have been styled on a mannequin, and I was short on time to try myself.  It's cashmere, boyfriend, leather sleeved perfection!  Again...a must have!

There are also so many amazing shoes, befitting of their own post in the next week.  And tomorrow, for the first time, I will be featuring some of the incredible Crewcuts looks...too adorable to be overlooked!  Looking forward to a fab J.Crew Fall!

Parisian Pattern Mixing...

I've been to Paris only once, and it was for little more than 24 hours.  I did manage to squeeze in all the sights of interest...the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Laduree.  Ever since, though, I've dreamed of my return...especially to shop!

In the meantime, there is occasion from time to time, that I find myself in a French state of mind.  And, for whatever reason, mixing stripes and floral, and topping with a little Louis, always makes me feel like I'm off to a cafe on the Seine.  And, P.S., pointy toe ballet flats with bows couldn't feel any more Parisian!

And, because I spend most of my day in and out of air conditioning, I will (inevitably) end up freezing in the mini.  I'll carry along my slouchy cashmere sweater to throw on, and finish the look.

I love the floral on this skirt, but the length and chiffon prohibit it from moving on to Fall.

PHOTO CRED: B.WILLIAMS

A great alternative for the chillier months is this gorgeous chiffon top from Forever 21.  And, at $15, it's an easy commitment!  Of course, I'll layer it with a Tres Chic sweater and jeans.  I initially purchased this sweater to turn into a pillow for my bedroom, but have since decided that a couple of wearings are in order first!  So, Paris may be some time off in the future for me...in the interim, I'm off to pick up some macarons in style!

Au Revoir!

Shirt/Sweater/Bracelets/Shoes: J.Crew. Skirt: Abercrombie

Sunglasses: Michael Kors. Bag: Louis Vuitton

Pattern & Balance

As September draws nearer, I typically have a minor panic attack that I need to wear my summer favorites, before they're packed away for the colder months ahead.  Although, here in the Northeast, the summer can drag its way deep into October.  Regardless, my rules don't change.  On the Tuesday following Labor Day, all summer wardrobe goes into hibernation until mid to late April.  With that, I'll be taking the next couple of weeks to squeeze in, just one more wear of, some pretty great pieces from the season.

Today is supposed to be about this amazing popover.  I got it very late in the season, at a price that seems criminal.  It's a collection piece, that I know I will adore forever. The boxier cut is a great balance for a shorter length on bottom.  It is also a great pair to a skinny jean.  I'm all for balanced wardrobing.  Mixing full or boxy on top, with shorter or skinny bottoms, will always work.  And, you'll feel appropriately covered.  This top fits the bill perfectly!  So much so, that I've decided that it can play a little further into fall.  It is a slightly heavier weight cotton/silk blend, and the colors are just muted enough to pull it off.  I'll be pairing with destroyed denim and low boots for a casual vibe, and layered over a white shirt with navy Minnies and heels, for a more refined look.

So, today has turned into the goodbye to my denim shorts. Truth be told, although I love them, these particular shorts may not be resurrected next year.  They're a little on the short side, for my lifestyle of constant bending and lifting, and it's better to be safe...than give strangers a show!  I will miss them dearly!  

I'm also packing up my favorite wedges.  They are necessary for the leg lengthening look the shorts so desperately need.  They are also the perfect shade of tan.  I look forward to relying on them for many years to come, for everything from mini skirts and shorts, to elevating casual jeans and t-shirts.

Two down...a million more to go!  Here's wishing for a slow goodbye to summer!

Spotlight...BCBG Wedding Wear

I have a wedding to go to at the end of September.  The location is a winery, so it's sure to be both a beautiful backdrop and a wild party (with my family, it always is!)!  So, I've been casually looking for something to wear for a few weeks.  The bride's wedding color of choice is red and, since I find it totally offensive to coordinate with the wedding party, it's a color that is totally off the table.  I also refrain from shades of white, for the same reasoning.  So far, I haven't had much luck.  So, today I paid a visit to my very gorgeous, very stylish friend, Kim.  She also happens to run my local BCBG MaxAzria shop...convenient, I know.  As far as special occasion goes, I don't know of a better brand out there.  They design such a high quality, stunning garment, at what I find to be a very reasonable price.  There were tons of beautiful options!  Though I didn't have time for a fit session today, I will be scheduling a date soon to try on all of the above, as well as this beauty pictured below.  I fear that it may not be dressy enough, due to the leather, but I love it so!  Either way, I have a feeling it will find a new home in my closet!

Happy Birthday to Me!

My children are constantly adding items to their "wish list."  Like every day.  So, it is a long running joke (because we can't get presents every time we leave the house!), that if they truly love something, they should put it on their "list."  It varies which list the items make it to, birthday or Christmas.  I think the biggest consideration, for them, is if they think Grandma or Santa is a better bet for them to actually receive it!  I can relate, as my mother is my primary (re: only!) gift bestower, in most cases.  It has never stopped me from making my comprehensive list each birthday.  I am, actually, two days late in posting it.  I prefer to have my wish list items confirmed at least a month in advance.  I was more wrapped up in party planning than I thought I'd be, and ended up taking an impromptu two day hiatus.  But, I'm back, and ready to share my most covetable items for my impending birthday next month.  As always, there is lots of sparkle and accessories.  Can never have enough jewelry, bags and shoes!  I'd have to say that a new iPhone 5 tops the list though.  I use my phone every day, for both business and personal, and my 4S has been on its way out, essentially, since I got it.  It's time!  I love my fragrance, Jennifer Aniston.  It's so light and refreshing, and I just found out yesterday that Sephora stores have stopped carrying!  Panic alert!  The beauty items I love most nearly always get discontinued...I have no idea what that says about me!  Maybe I'm just too cutting edge...ha ha!  And the Visa card because, let's face it, cash is always a fan favorite!  So, although I will likely end up gifting myself most of these items over time, it is always so much fun "window shopping," in anticipation of my "special day."  
Happy birthday to me...for the next month!

As an aside, while I was on leave, this little blog of mine surpassed 1000 views.  It doesn't seem like much, compared to all the fabulous style blogs with thousands of followers, but it is a great accomplishment for me!  I have enjoyed every minute of writing it!
And, if you love reading, follow me!
Please! ;-)

Rose-Colored Glasses

I am OB-sessed!  I have always favored an aviator sunglass...alternating between an amazing pair of Michael Kors with a perfect brown lens, and a classic RayBan, with gradient blue lenses.  Love them both!  But I ADORE the color pink!  So these lovelies, pictured above, might just be the perfect combination.  Alas, I fear that the lighter lens might look awkward with my coloring.  They would be perfect on blonds, and magic on an olive complexion!  I may have to explore them anyway.  They are just too gorgeous to not stalk to the end!

Neon Glow

As the summer days begin to wane (because they are, in fact, and at an alarmingly fast rate!), I'm taking a moment to remember how sad I once was to say goodbye to my fashion favorites at the end of the season.  White jeans.  Strappy sandals.  Bright accessories.  I live in all!  But these days, the fashion rules have really lightened up.  In fact, they are no longer...anything goes!  As long as it looks fabulous, of course.  Despite the rules being thrown out the window, there is still a certain nostalgia about the Fall for me.   Jewel tones.  Heavier fabrics.  And, my personal fave, boots!  So, ever the creature of habit, I still pack all my Summer style up by the end of September.  But, I pine for those white jeans for the next seven months!

By all accounts, this neon lace shirt should be added to the pack up list.  The color is brighter than bright.  The lace is, well, lacy.  And it's short-sleeved and lightweight.  Seems to scream Summer.  But I'm just not ready to think about letting it go.  So, I'm pairing it with stone colored jeans, navy suede heels and richly colored jewels.  And when the chill comes in, I'll throw a heather grey academy blazer over it.  And, just like it glows against a summer tan, it will brighten any wash out from the missing sun of winter.  Neon may very well be on it's way out for a while... 

But it's going to be a long goodbye for me!

The emerald green in this necklace totally pops against the neon citron.  So good!

Love a shiny pink lip with neon.

Shirt: Madewell  

Jewelry/Jeans/Bag/Shoes: J.Crew

London Calling...

I'm having a London moment.  Perhaps it's because a friend is headed there in a couple of weeks.  Maybe it's Prince George Alexander Louis' arrival.  I don't know.  It just might be this amazing beefeater cashmere sweater...gorgeous!  I've always adored the Burberry label, but this season has just blown me away!  So, today we're focusing on this iconic brand.  At nearly $1300 for the sweater, or jumper (say as the Brits say), it is a luxe endeavor.  Worth every penny of the investment.  Timeless.  I've included some "add-ons," for some budgetary variation, but love the idea of limiting the palette to tan, red and black...at least for this sweater.  It signifies the brand, in every way.  The sweater has just enough kitch, but I love the idea of skipping the bling, for a quirky bow tie.  A skinny moto pant and the heart smoking slipper (love!) complete a casual, polished look.  Of course, no Burberry outfit would be complete without the iconic trench...an investment for life, for sure!  Should top every wish list!  I opted out of showcasing one of the brand's plaid scarves...because, really, so obvious!  However, as a gateway to this amazing brand, the scarf will work!  Keep the palette the same...perfect polish!  A trip to the fabulous city is definitely in the works...hopefully, sooner than later!  But, in the interim, you just may catch me sporting my Burberry colors!

In living uncolor...

If I had to choose three colors to live with forever...in my wardrobe, home, work environment, etc...there really wouldn't be a color among them.  People might be surprised to know that I would choose some variation of beige, tan and white. The shocked reaction would stem from the fact that I do wear a fair amount of color on a daily basis, varying from neons to bold primary.  But this trio makes for such amazingly timeless, elegant looks when combined in an outfit.
Monochromatic or mixed, it is polished.  Every time.  I dream of piling on gold and sparkly jewelry, and adding subtle floral and aztec as accents.  So glam!  I'm finishing it with a copper penny nail, which will pop against the fairer shades.  So, so pretty!  But I'm adding a little edge...a studded phone case and a WTF ring fit the bill.
This palette is stunning now, against sun-kissed skin.  Heavier fabrications will carry through the Fall, and even Winter.  Truly a seasonless palette!  I adore the two-tone jacket!  It really pulls the look together!
Hello, Gorgeous!
No fruit punch allowed.

Camo continued...

I may have mentioned, once or twice, that I enjoy a good camo pattern.  I thought it might be a good idea to explore the many options available, should you feel the same way that I do.  The new Fall season brings a wealth of options for camouflage, that were not readily available just a few short months ago.  And, with duck season just around the corner, now is the time to stock up.  I feel inclined to mention that all of my hunting knowledge, duck or otherwise, comes from episodes of Duck Dynasty.  I also, may or may not, be more interested in the fabric than usual, with a themed party coming up.  In any case, I feel we should explore the options.  And then, perhaps, we can move onto other fabulous patterns and textiles.  We shall see...
Moving on...camouflage is now available in every possible reincarnation.  And, for those not ready to adhere to the bold statement of the pattern, designers and retailers are giving you accessories in all shapes and variations on the pattern.  I, myself, am partial to the lace up Vans.  Such a classic shoe, but with a kick of camo.  Madewell is carrying them as well, but the women's sizing is difficult to come by.  They are men's shoes, so you need to size down a size and a half, regardless of who you order from.  I adore the simple navy polka dot backpack by Herschel Supply Co., with camo as an accent.  And, if I can't convince either of my girls that camo should be their statement this upcoming school year, Crewcuts also has the full camo version...for my son.  Boys are so much easier!  The artistic camo on the Aritzia skirt is so fresh and new.  Again, this is a great option for people who aren't completely sold on the militant look.  It would look ah-mazing with a chambray shirt (guess we're not past that yet, either.)!  The camo ringer tee was made for boys but, ranging in sizes up to boys 16, it's a great shrunken tee for the more petite out there.  And, I've mentioned the burgeoning baseball cap trend out now...the Fairends hat from Madewell is the perfect way to embrace two trends in one!  There are hundreds of options out there, in addition to these greats!  My best advice is to head to your favorite retailer's web page, and search "camo."  There are, likely, going to be options.  I've included just a few from J.Crew, Madewell and Aritzia.  I'm wearing Forever 21 in the pic below.  And Gap has re-released the famous Always Skinny camos, in a cooler look yet...with front zippers!  Still trying to justify TWO pairs of the exact fitting pant, in the same pattern.  They are selling out fast...online only has the pink version available (not my style but, if you're game, go for it!).  I think it's fair to say that we can close the book on camo for a while.  Enjoy the options...and, as Phil Robertson would say, you'll be happy, happy, happy!  Yes, that is a Duck Dynasty reference...and, no, I do not apologize for it!

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Shirt: Forever 21  Necklace/Jeans/Belt: J.Crew

Bag: Gucci  Boots: Madewell

Sorry, could not end the discussion without these knock outs!
No words!

There are also no words for what is happening to this post, once I publish it.  Pics are crazed, text is weird.  Aaaagh!  Help!  Or overlook it!  Haha!

Chambray Wrap Up

To wrap up the week of chambray, I am providing you with a zillion options in every shade, style and budget.  And, if you're not convinced by now that you desperately need one, then kindly contact me for a wardrobe consult.  We've got a lot to talk about!  Kidding...kind of.  But, in all seriousness, chambray & denim tops make a great neutral base for everything from party skirts to chinos to, yes, even jeans.  
The denim tuxedo...no longer a faux pas!
So, experiment with chambray...you'll love the results!

Hunting and Fishing...

I have a bizarre obsession with camouflage.  I'm fairly certain I've mentioned it before.  It is a widely known fact among friends and family.  If it comes in camo, there's pretty much a guarantee that I'll purchase.  The only real question is how I ended up a fashionista, and not a redneck!

The only answer I can deduce is that most rednecks don't pair their camo with pearls.  Although I'll certainly never understand why!  I scored these Gap skinnies on super sale.  I feel it's worth mentioning that I had to harass customer service to even find a style number, and then cold call stores all over the South.  I was finally graced with an amazing associate in Athens, GA (Nate, I believe).  Initially, he was unable to locate. However, in a dramatic departure from the service we get here in the Northeast, he continued to look even after we hung up.  He then used the store's caller i.d. to phone me back!  Because he did, indeed, find them!  That's right, Folks...I love camo, I love rednecks, and I adore the South!  Amazing!  They were meant to be, and I wear them as such...a lot!

That said, most days I'm more likely to be seen on the street without the pearls and pumps.  But I definitely pair them with a chambray and bright ballerinas.  And, when I'm crazed with the kiddos, I keep it super relaxed in boots and this super soft sweatshirt...on the go!

The bonus with this particular sweatshirt is the embellished neckline, forgoing the need for jewelry.  Don't get me wrong...I live for my statement necklaces!  But every girl needs to take a day off...from time to time.

Bag: Gucci. Sunglasses: RayBan.  Bracelet/Ring: J.Crew

Pants: Gap.  Sweatshirt: Abercrombie & Fitch

Chambray/Pumps/Pearls: J.Crew

Pants: Gap