MexiCali

Ulla Johnson Wrap, Scoop NYC T-Shirt, Sarah Pacini Belt and (silver) Bracelets and Necklace, Hudson Jeans, similar here, Sandro Booties, on sale here, Balenciaga backpack, similar for less here, Calypso St. Barth Hat, Lisa Hoffman black beaded bracelet, Celine sunglasses.

I love wraps. They serve a multitude of functions, and when they are as beautiful as this one, they beg to be worn in a dramatic and eye catching way. I was actually wearing these red Hudson jeans and a black tee last winter when I was visiting my parents in the desert, when I came upon this Ulla Johnson wrap at the Elizabeth and Prince boutique on El Paseo. I couldn’t believe how it uplifted my outfit and truly transformed it to something special. After many oohs and ahhs of other patrons, I decided to get it. I felt that it had a Latin quality to it and this hat completed my vision. My tried and true Balenciaga backpack, which can be worn three ways , adds the right amount of “muy bien” to this Mexicali ensemble. 

Fancy Pants

Worth New York Tunic and Belt, True Royal Pants (Savannah Santa Monica), Sandro Heels, Calypso St. Barth Hoop Earrings, Balenciaga Handbag (similar for less here), Celine Sunglasses, Vintage Bracelet (Savannah Santa Monica). 

  Whenever I receive an invitation that calls for dressy or festive attire, I immediately go to my cocktail dress collection and choose one that says “party.” However, I am out to break that habit and venture into wearing fancy pants, dressy pantsuits or even a tuxedo with a fabulous blouse or top underneath. 

   This outfit is a mash up of different designers, working in perfect harmony. These lace pants by True Royal had me at hello. I loved everything about them right down to the scalloped bottom. The same goes for this chic knit tunic by Worth New York. The slit is too high to be worn alone, but topped over fancy pants or even denim, the versatility of this piece is endless. I added this chain belt for a little edgy definition at the waist and love the way it drops over the abdomen. Adding these suede and lace pumps by Sandro, completes the look. With an outfit as busy as this one, jewelry should be kept to minimum, but still make a statement. These large but thin hoop earrings by Calypso St. Barth are my new go to and my beloved vintage YSL cuff is simultaneously a simple and bold statement piece.

  Let’s talk about the benefits of a small but expandable purse that can take you from day to night with a removable shoulder strap. This is a must have for every woman. I love this one by Balenciaga, but there are many lower priced versions for you to consider and I have provided a couple of them here in this post.

  So, Miss Fancy Pants, next time your invitation calls for “festive attire,” think outside the cocktail dress box and create an outfit from pieces you already have in your closet!

Good Vibrations

Thakoon Addition Dress, Lanvin Hat, similar here, Valentino Bag, similar here, Celine Sunglasses and Gianvito Rossi Gladiators, Calypso St. Barth Hoops.

Boho is a term that I would never use to describe my style, yet I am always attracted to the look when it appears on someone else, like my daughter, for instance. However, while visiting Savannah the other day, to model some of their new arrivals, I found myself face to face with this Thakoon dress. Never in a million years did I expect to fall in love with this dress. It was such a departure for me. For one thing, I had to lose the bra. For another, it is very loose fitting and free. It turns out that it was just what the fashion doctor ordered. The Savannah gals added this wonderful hat and these comfy gladiators, which gave it that 70’s hippie vibe.

Needless to say, it now has a permanent home in my closet. Even Jeff, who rarely has a strong opinion, gave it the thumbs up. Groovy! 

Digging The Trenches

Moschino Dress, Worth New York Trench, Christian Dior Pumps, also seen here, Nancy Gonzalez Handbag, YSL Vintage Cuff, Nordstrom Necklace, Christian Dior Tribale Earrings (similar for less here), Celine Sunglasses.

  I love a trench coat. It is a classic look that adds instant polish to any outfit. Throw it on over a pair of jeans and a blouse and you go from plain casual to casual chic. What I never thought to try, until now  however, was a trench over a trench!

  This fabulous dress by Moschino is a great find. A white sleeveless trench is modern, clean and classic; it is something that is a little unexpected from Moschino, whose whimsical looks are anything but classic. Adding a hot pink shoe and bag gives it the punch that is so reminiscent of said design house. I heightened the look by throwing on this cluster of pearls chocker, and voila, the dress went from simple to fabulous.

  I wondered how the dress would look with a trench coat on top. Dubious though I was, I took this great striped trench by Worth New York, slipped it on-- and lo and behold, it fit the bill perfectly. Never assume that two things of the same family are too redundant to work in harmony. Here is a perfect example of how they can make beautiful music together.