Skater

Even though I am sure they are different today (and as silly as they still are), I can’t help but remember the names of all of the different cliques at my high school: the preppies, the slippies, the jocks, the popular kids, the smokers, the drama kids, the choir kids (that was me), and last but not least, the skaters. And I swear, when skater dresses became popular this year, all I could think of were the skaters I knew in high school. Silly story, but true none-the-less. And while, of course, I do love a good skater dress-I am especially loving them right now. Because they have a tight bodice, a higher waist, and a full skirt, they are ideal back to jackets and cardigans, which makes them a perfect transitional piece from summer to fall, or back to school.

20130813-225422.jpg

20130813-225433.jpg

20130813-225543.jpg

20130813-225554.jpg

20130813-225602.jpg

20130813-225624.jpg

20130813-225631.jpg

Instagram Filter: Earlybird

Dress: BarIII (old) similar, similar , loving this one| Jean Jacket: Else (old), similar, similar | Necklaces: Keti Sorely Designs, Stella & Dot | Bracelets: JCrew, Stella & Dot | Watch: Michael Kors | Sunnies: Amazon | Belt: American Eagle (old) | Shoes: Sole Society (on sale!)

I can’t believe that I have never tried a pair of Sole Society shoes before.  I actually picked up this pair (for a steal!) when I was in San Francisco for meetings last week.  And I have to say, I am super impressed.  Not only are they super cute and affordable, but the quality is great and they are comfortable to boot.  They have definitely earned a fan and a return customer in me!

Hope you are having a great week.  Thanks for stopping by!

Etoile de Rock

I love the combo of graphic tees and leather jackets (see this post). But another pairing on frequent rotation in my wardrobe this season is the combo of graphic tees and printed pants. It’s so unexpected but a great example of pattern play. And with the right accessories, can even make you feel like a bit of a rock star…

20130212-223910.jpg

20130212-223903.jpg

20130212-223947.jpg

20130212-223955.jpg

20130212-224018.jpg

20130212-224026.jpg

20130212-224036.jpg

Instagram Filter:  Valencia

Faux Leather Jacket:  BarIII via Macy’s | Graphic Tee:  BarIII via Macy’s, similar | Snow Leopard Pants:  JCrew (same pants different color AND they’re on sale!!) | Onyx Necklace:  Nightlight International | Tassel Necklace:  ArdenB (old), similar, similar | Silver Bracelets:  Tiffany and Co. | Gold Charm Watch:  Anne Klein | Gold Watch:  Michael Kors | Sunburst Ring:  House of Harlow | Sunnies:  Forever21 | Neon Bag:  Steve Madden | Black Wedges:  Dolce Vita, similar

I am so looking forward to Valentine’s day tomorrow.  Because one of our best V-Day’s was spent on a backpacking trip in Thailand a few years ago, Justin and I have a fun tradition of indulging in our favorite Thai food every year to celebrate.  Delicious take out and a nice bottle of wine (or two)?  I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Hope you all are having a fabulous week!

xx

Fringe Benefits

One of my favorite positions that I’ve ever held was when I managed the buying and product development for the Footwear and Accessories department at Sundance Catalog. It was my first big job in the fashion industry and I have been hooked ever since. And not only did it reassure me that I was meant to have a career in the retail world, but it also instilled in me a deep love for handbags (which I’m sure my hubby is especially grateful for). 😉

That said, I designed the below bag with my agent partner in Italy a couple of years ago. And of course since the Italians are much more fashion forward than we are, we were a little too far ahead of the fringe curve. So while it was always one of my favorite designs, it wasn’t featured in the catalog until after I’d departed.  But with fringe popping up all over the place this season, I was happy I held onto my original sample. So while I’m still on the fence about fringed boots (and sweaters, for that matter), I can definitely rock a fringed bag.

20121113-212320.jpg

20121113-212334.jpg

20121113-212351.jpg

20121113-212415.jpg

20121113-212424.jpg

20121113-212432.jpg

20121113-212438.jpg

20121113-212448.jpg

20121113-212500.jpg

Instagram Filter:  Nashville

Faux Leather Jacket:  BarIII for Macy’s, similar, similar, similar

Grey V-Neck:  Victoria’s Secret Pink (best t’s ever)

Jeans:  Gap

Pink Necklace:  TJMaxx (old), similar

Sterling Monogram Necklace:  Birthday Gift

Watch:  Michael Kors

Sunnies:  Target

Fringed Bag:  my design for Sundance, similar, similar

Pointed Toe Pumps:  Nine West

Another thing I should note in this post  is the importance of owning a great biker jacket.  They are a perfect fall staple and a simple way to dress up a t-shirt, a great piece to throw on when running out the door, and an easy way to sass up an otherwise sweet outfit.  Leather or vegan, depending on your personal preference and price range, there is sure to be a style just right for everyone this fall.  And with the progression of man-made materials, the faux options available this season are better than ever with many that could pretty much pass for the real thing.  Fantastic style without breaking the bank?  Count me in!

Happy Hump Day!

xx