Winter White on Black
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Winter white has never been more appealing than when it is paired with black. An all black ensemble is brought to life with this winter white coat.
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Caped Crusader
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A black cape thrown over leather jeans or coated denim is cozy, chic and on trend. This look is something that will carry me from Fall to Spring.
Read MoreIt's Not Easy Bein' Green
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This ensemble called out to me from its place on the Sandro rack at Bloomies in Century City. I love its color and casual feel.
Read MoreMy Four Faves of 2016
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2016 was a year that featured new trends and fabulous styles. Here are four of my favorite looks of the year.
Read MoreClassic With An Edge
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Dries Van Noten Blazer (also seen here), Whistles sweater, Hermes Belt, Oak and Fort wool trousers (similar here), Rebecca Minkoff Loafers, Chanel sunglasses, Balenciaga handbag (similar for less here).
Years ago, a sale's person once described my style as classic with an edge. At that time, I wore a lot of jeans and sweaters paired with very funky shoes. Over the years my look has evolved into a more sophisticated version of that while remaining true to its original description. Even this outfit, which is comprised of a cropped navy wool pant and sweater, topped with a timeless yet edgy Dries Van Noten blazer and these silver loafers, is in fact a version of edgy classic.
I tend to shy away from a cropped pant because of the fear of shaving inches off my already short stature. Yet, maintaining a monochromatic color scheme, helps to negate that outcome. Hence the navy sweater, pant and belt.
I guess that certain traits remain constant, and that goes for style as well.
Perfectly Pleated
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There is something perfectly feminine about a long pleated skirt. it is soft, flowy, sophisticated and ladylike. This one by Maje is all of that and more. Its fiery ombre colors give it an edge. It is no secret that I a a huge fan of the cold shoulder top. Donna Karan was one of the first designers to embrace the exposed shoulder claiming that it is the one part of the woman's body that never ages. I own several versions of this top, but this one with its clean lines is timeless. My tried and true Chloe wedge pumps have seen me through many a garden party and barbeque since they don't run the risk of sinking into the lawn. They are the perfect compliment to this outfit since they are simple yet elegant. Now is the time to try a pleated skirt since it is trending into Spring, and you can purchase this one on sale. Perfect pleats could be your next big win.
Red Bellbottoms
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Alice and Olivia Wide Leg Jean on sale here, Aqua Sweater, Gucci Booties, Dior Shades, Henri Bendel Earrings, Ashneil Belt.
How much time do you spend pulling up your pants? If you are like me, you are constantly adjusting, pulling and yanking at those skinny leg low rise jeans, so that they sit just right. Enter the high waisted wide leg pant, no adjustments necessary. Though you might shy away from red, I found these to be perfect in so many ways. The high waist and wide leg truly elongates the body causing you to look taller and leaner all at once. The high waisted pant is the perfect partner to a cropped top, which, after a certain age, is no longer cute and sexy, but tends to be somewhat inappropriate. The addition of a backpack and multiple bracelets is in keeping with the retro look of the pants.
She Shoots She Scores
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Aqua Sweater, Oak and Fort Pants and Shoes, Calfun Handbag (also seen here), Jewelry Bar Earrings, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses.
For those of you who happen to be hockey fans, you will recognize this phrase as one shouted by many a sports commentator just as the puck crosses the goal line. In my case, I am using it figuratively as it relates to this outfit, half of which was purchased in my homeland of Canada, of which hockey is the official national pastime!
On a recent visit to Toronto, my cousin and fellow fashionista Leanne, and I spent the entire day at the fabulous new Yorkdale Fashion Mall. The mall is home to all the major international fashion houses, but I was more interested in exploring the Canadian lines. She took me into the Oak and Fort store where I was completely blown away not only by the low prices, but by the fabulous designs as well. Case in point: these wonderful wide leg cropped pants in this luscious olive green ($88.00 Canadian dollars). The shoes had me at hello, especially since they cost $69.00 Canadian dollars! Yes, the US dollar goes very far in Canada; your US dollar equals $1.35 Canadian.
Back in the US, and more specifically the Aqua section of Bloomingdales, where you will find wonderful pieces for a fraction of the cost of their competitors, I picked up this cream sweater for a mere $136.00 which is on sale now.
My handbag was purchased last year when we traveled to Argentina, where you can pick up wonderful leather goods at great prices, and this was one of those purchases that I have been able to wear with a multitude of outfits.
If you follow along and visit the Oak and Fort or Aqua websites, you too will score!
Classical Black
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Wolford Dress, Mary Frances Clutch, Strategia Pump, (similar here), Robin Terman Chokers, Chanel Bracelet, Celine Sunglasses.
If you are not familiar with the Wolford brand, you should be. Not only do they make great hosiery, their tops, skirts and dresses are staples that everyone should own. They are a little pricey, but the quality will last you for years. I still wear tights that I bought over 5 years ago, and a dress that was purchased around the same time. Their clothes don’t pill or lose their shape. I recently fell in love with this long sleeve black dress that I know I will wear for many years to come. The heavy cotton fabric is perfect for traveling as it doesn’t crease. Its ruched and asymmetrical design which, when pulled down past the knee, make it perfectly conservative yet sexy all at the same time. The shoes are the piece de résistance, purchased in Toronto at the store, Winners, for a mere $129.00! If you are traveling to Toronto, I advise you to visit this store. It makes Marshalls and TJ Maxx look like amateurs! I received this whimsical clutch as a gift for my birthday and I love it; it goes with everything and heightens the simplicity of this dress in exactly the way a great accessory should.
110 in the Shade
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The Kooples Dress, on sale here, Roger Vivier Kitten Heels, Christian Dior Bag, also seen here, Robin Terman Bracelets, Ippolita Glass Bracelet, similar here, Michael Kors Watch, similar here.
Global warming is not a hoax created by the Chinese, as President Elect Trump would like to believe. It is very real as evidenced by the fact that temperatures here and elsewhere in the nation have been unseasonably warm. In New York and Toronto, last week, temperatures were in the 70’s, while here in Los Angeles, we experienced mid 80’s and 90’s…..in mid November. From an environmental standpoint, this is frightening. From a fashionista’s standpoint, this is a disaster. All I want to wear are sweaters, jackets and pants, but what seems more comfortable are summer dresses. I wore this lightweight one by The Kooples, that I purchased during the end of summer sale at Blooomies. Little did I know how many times it would see the light of day. I am hopeful that the weather will turn a bit cooler soon, and we will begin to be able to wear our fall clothes. In the meantime, we must all pay closer attention to the issue of climate change, in particular, global warming. Mr. Trump, are you listening?
Sister Sister
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Sandro Dress, Maje Jacket and Shoes, Robin Terman Choker.
I am sure that you have heard the expression, “It’s in the genes,” often enough to roll your eyes. However, perhaps there is some truth to it. This beautiful lace dress by Sandro designer, Evelyne Chetrite, seemed destined to be paired with this bomber jacket of the exact same colors by Evelyne’s sister, the designer behind the label of Maje. I loved both items, which were directly across the aisle from one another at Boomingdales Century City. No one had paired the two pieces, since one is dressy and one is casual; however, as you know, I like to change things up and thought a silk bomber jacket over a lace dress could be fabulous. The fact that the colors were an exact match, seems as though the sisters designed the items together, or was it simply in the genes?
Rockin' Red
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Iro Blouse, Cabi Skirt, Louis Vuitton Heels, Chanel Handbag and Sunglasses.
I love red, especially a fiery red. While some might run from the color, I run towards it. So when I saw this skirt by Cabi, I was instantly in love with it. Aside from it being red, I love the A-line shape and length so that I can wear it to a meeting as easily as I can wear it out for dinner. Since I accessorized it with my favorite red shoes and handbag, I toned it down a bit with this black print blouse by Iro, (and yes those are red lips on the blouse). Speaking of lips, some of my favorite fiery red colors are Nars “Heatwave,” Trish McEvoy “Perfect Red” and Topshop “Rio Rio.” I wear all three: one is in my car, one is in my makeup bag and one is in my vanity drawer, because a little pop of red goes a long way.
Friendly Inspiration
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Helmut Lang Top, Robin Terman Choker, LF Pants (also seen here), Chanel Shades (similar here), Nancy Newberg Earrings, Celine Bag, Topshop Shoes.
I often derive my fashion inspiration from what my friends are wearing. Granted I have fabulous friends with fabulous taste, but we all get into a fashion rut, even yours truly. Although there are days when I would prefer to walk around town in my workout clothes, I simply cannot bring myself do it, though I have tried many a time.
So when my friend Robin Terman, the jewelry designer, came by the other day, wearing a pair of high waisted flowy pants topped with this asymmetrical one shoulder top and her fabulous signature leather and diamond bar choker, I simply had to follow suit.
I pulled out these polka dot palazzo pants, that I acquired at the semi annual LF sale a couple of years ago, as they were the closest thing in my closet to what Robin was wearing. I scanned the Bloomies website for the Helmut Lang top she wore and purchased it during their Friends and Family sale….ka-ching! I am obsessed with Robin’s chokers and I wear this leather one almost daily. Rounding out the outfit are these black suede mules from Topshop.
One of the reasons that I began this blog was to share all things that inspire me to live fabulously, and this outfit definitely fits that bill.
The Great Cover Up
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Maje Poncho, Cabi Blouse, Rag and Bone Jeans, Zara Shoes, Chanel Handbag, Robin Terman Necklace, Dior Tribal Earrings.
Have you ever wished for a cover up that is so snugly and cocoon like, it makes you feel as though you never want to come out? I found all of that in this gorgeous poncho by Maje. Its color and original shape make it the perfect cover up. It doesn’t totally cover what lies underneath, so that the beautiful flowers of this Cabi blouse are still able to catch some sunlight! Velvet is all the rage right now, and these velvet jeans by Rag and Bone are the perfect backdrop for this lovely ensemble. These cute metalic shoes were purchased at Zara for a mere $89.90! Covering up was never so much fun!
Slip into This
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Vince Top and Skirt, American Vintage Coat, Zara Heels, Bally Handbag, also seen here, Jewelry Bar Necklace, Chanel Glasses, Robin Terman Bracelets and Earrings.
No, I did not forget to put on my top and skirt; this look was very much intentional, as slip dresses and lounge wear seem to be all the rage. Personally, I do not like the look of the silk pajama pants and top, but this taupe top and bottom is both luxe and en pointe! Its neutral color offers many choices when it comes to adding a layer of outerwear. I chose this cream trench that I picked up at a little boutique in Paris. Ironically, it is by a company called American Vintage. I found the shoes on sale at Zara for a whopping $22.90! I am definitely exploring lesser priced clothing and shoe options for myself, and ultimately for you too!
A Vested Interest
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Cabi Vest, Zara Dress, Topshop Sandals, Balenciaga Handbag, Lanvin Necklace, Robin Terman Bracelets.
If I told you that this outfit, (sans the jewelry and handbag), adds up to a whopping $255.90, you probably wouldn’t believe me. Allow me to break it down for you. The dress is from Zara, and cost $22.90. The shoes are from Topshop, and cost $85.00, and the vest is by Cabi, and cost $149.00. Ladies, I highly recommend you take to the aisles of Topshop and Zara because you will be pleasantly surprised when you do. I have been singing the praises of Cabi for years, and at $149.00, this wonderful vest is both on trend and functional! If you recall, a couple of weeks ago I featured a silk dress from Topshop that cost $30.00. I urge you not to write these stores off as “too young” or “too trendy.” I promise you that there is something fabulous for every age and body type. There is no need to spend a fortune on your clothes. If you pair them with wonderful accessories, you will look put together and glamorous. You will also be thanking me a million times over. I have a vested interest in this outfit, and now, you do as well.
Polkas Worth Dotting
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Problem: It’s the end of September and it’s as hot as Hades outside. You want to look chic and cool, but not summery.
Solution: Opt for a lightweight white blouse and a dark trouser that will carry you over from summer into fall.
This particular blouse from Worth New York is semi sheer but the French knots add texture and style. It is light enough that I don’t feel too warm outside and the neckline is feminine and sexy so you don't feel like you're wearing a man's white shirt.
The polka dots on the trousers, also by Worth, are fun. The stretch of the fabric make this a travel staple since they will emerge from your suitcase crease free!
Red is a color that I like to add to a black and white outfit no matter the season. I have a few pairs of red shoes but these by Gianvito Rossi, also seen here, and here, are my favorites. It elevates the look. If you want to play it safe, you can always stick to a black pump or flat.
One Dress, Two Ways
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Left: Topshop Dress, Mulberry Clutch, Gianvito Rossi Sandals, Jewelry Bar Bangles, Robin Terman Earrings.
Right: Topshop Dress, Celine Bag, Valentino Sandals, Hipanema Earrings, Vintage Brown Belt.
The only time I shop at Top Shop is when I am with Serena and we are shopping for clothes for an event or a seasonal update. We make use of their Personal Shopper service because the sales associates have a vast knowledge of the merchandise, the area is comfortable with sofas and large dressing rooms, and the associate runs all over the various departments collecting shoes and accessories. The entire experience is relaxed and enjoyable. Best of all, the service is entirely free of cost. This past August we needed to look for a dress that Serena could wear to a wedding, and I suggested that we begin our search at Top Shop; both the price point and style are usually spot on. As I predicted, it was the right place and we found the dress within the first 10 minutes with the help of a personal shopper. I wanted to get Serena a couple of other pieces that were on sale and the personal shopper suggested that I try on this orange silk dress because she thought it would suit me and it was marked down to $30.00…. yes, you read that correctly, $30.00! I can totally change the look of the dress from sophisticated to edgy, by buttoning the sleeve to the shoulder and adding a wide belt and fabulous sandals. This is the piece de resistance, thereby marking down each look by half…well you do the math.
White Remains Right
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True Royal Pants, Worth New York Sweater, Gucci Purse, Sergio Rossi Pumps, Christian Dior Tribal Earrings.
Although it was once considered a fashion faux pas to wear white after Labor Day, that rule no longer exists. It seems that the fashion rules have loosened over the last couple of decades. As autumn temperatures remain warm, I am in favor of cottons over wool, and light over dark. I also like to pair a black sweater with a white pant for the contrast that the color provides. It is often impossible to perfectly match black on black, and though I try, I feel that the white is a better fit. This cotton sweater by Worth New York is the perfect carry over from Spring to Fall. It provides just the right amount of warmth without leaving you with a puddle of perspiration. Hang on to your whites for a little while longer, because white remains right!
From Mannequin To Reality
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Aqua Dress, J Brand Jacket, Laurence Decade Sandals, John Hardy Earrings, Bracelet, and Charm attached to Jewelry Bar Choker, Celine Bag, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses.
