Midwinter Style

Chilly weather can be the fast-track to a fashion rut. Cozy boots, long coats and dark colors galore define winter style, but lately, they seem like external manifestations of severe seasonal affective disorder. That's no fun. I stumbled across two options for spicing up cold weather wear:

1. High-top sneakers: I could probably get away with wearing these to the office. For those who don't work in an environment where things like snakeskin-print trousers are acceptable, they're ideal for running weekend errands. Why? High-top sneakers are surprisingly great at enduring all sorts of precipitation. My Nike Dunks made it through three Chicago winters. Just add luxe touches like fur and leather to keep them from looking too grungy.

2. Khakis: If winter's mild (read: not Chicago, but maybe New York), khakis are such a cute and unexpected alternative to denim and knit tights. Pair them with a short wool jacket and booties. Plus, I feel like so much winter style has a black or navy palette—brown's a little more fresh. To avoid looking like you're confused and think it's still October, make sure everything else is a warmer, darker tone.

Which look do you like best? (I'm all about #1 myself).


[photo cred here and there]

A New Year

I've been thinking a lot about the new year lately. Usually, it stands as a fresh start, the opportunity for growth. Everyone makes resolutions in order to spark some sort of change in their life, whether that be flossing more often (for me, yes) or drinking less gin and tonics (for me, never).

But for 2012, I don't even know what I should resolve to do. There's been so much change in 2011 that I'd appreciate some sort of stasis in the next year. My life was turned upside-down: I left Evanston for a NYC (read: miniscule) apartment surrounded by pigeons and litter, somehow landed a wonderful job for which people pay me to write (I know, right? And you're getting this for free!), and my best friends either moved to Africa or stayed in Chicago. Do you know what it's like when your best friend is in the Tanzanian jungle? It feels horrible. I don't wish it on anyone but my very worst enemies.

So I'm just going to do what I should have been doing anyway. I'm going to floss because my dad's a gum surgeon who went on a long lecture about gingivitis the last time I let him look at my teeth. I'm going to keep my network of scattered friendships as close as possible, given the circumstances. And most of all, since I already have that New York City shoebox, I'm going to explore the city. Really, really explore it. This means walk outside the radius between my apartment and my office.

Hope you have the happiest New Year ever!


[photo cred here, here, and there]

All Wrapped Up

This weekend, I finished up my Christmas shopping. I had a long list this year: my family, of course, my friends, and then the wonderful people who helped me get to the place I am today (which would be: employed). At first, I was a little lost. What should the price point be? Are there any things I shouldn't give?

I'm not a very good gift-giver, but I have one rule when I'm searching for the perfect present: it has to be something that the person will love but wouldn't normally buy him- or herself. Things like Lollia bubble bath, which is beauty-editor approved (not by me, but a seasoned beauty director)(I promise), is just extravagant enough without being excessive. C. Wonder (created by Tory Burch's ex-husband and co-founder of her eponymous clothing line) also has a fantastic selection of affordable yet adorable trinkets. I love these bright enamel boxes and pretty glass plates.

What are your go-to gifts?


[photo cred here and there]

'Tis the Season

Unforeseen perks about living in New York City during the holidays: passing by Christmas tree stands, which virtually appeared overnight. There seems to be one every two or so blocks, and when I walk by, I'm smacked in the face with the warm, refreshing scent of fir trees. I'm that girl who stops and buries her face in the lush needles. Are you surprised? Not at all? Is that a compliment? No? Plus, at night, there are strands of bobbing lights criss-crossed over them. It's like a Christmas fairy just decided to do something about the smell of trash sitting on First Avenue.

When my family opted to buy an enormous (and fake) 12-foot tree, I insisted on getting my own real miniature tree. I just love the fragrance: inviting, a little sharp, and cozy. I get that needles make a mess and dry trees make for an unpleasant fire hazard, but I think that that's worth it. (Although I'd probably take a different stance if I, say, accidentally burned down my building). (Knock on wood). (Pun unintended but so awesome that I'm going to allow it). Real or faux, which do you prefer?


[photo cred here]

Fair Isle Femme

Remember this sweater (on the left) from Stella McCartney's Fall 2007 collection? I do. Because I loved it, saw a girl wearing it in the university library, and promptly fell out of my chair. I've since recovered, but that doesn't mean I've stopped loving the look of quirky and oh-so-cozy Fair Isle.

My favorite part: the absence of rainbow hues means that Fair Isle can double as a versatile neutral. How genius is that? You could pair them with jeans and boots for a low-key outfit or jazz them up with a pair of brightly colored jeans. (The grey would be perfect with red, and for the pale beige on the right? Navy all the way). Steal the Joie sweater for a fraction of the Stella McCartney cost. No offense, Stella, but my wallet needs a hug.


[photo cred to style.com]

Golden Weekend

I know Halloween (and most of October) is all about the orange and black, but I think a rich yellow is a much kinder shade to wear. Plus, it provides a pop of color without stepping into springtime territory. It's not that I have anything against orange...but it makes my skin look green.

What are you doing for Halloween? My boyfriend refused to tell me his costume because he was afraid I'd steal it. I persuaded him to tell me and then, true to form, poached his idea. Thus, we'll both be going as "Occupy the Bar Protesters." We'll be part of the 99% drunk. In my defense, I just graduated from college and I'm still in the transition phase. Apparently. :) Are you dressing up?


[photo cred to Martha Stewart and Patterson Maker]

Walk Like a Lady

I'm in a committed relationship with my wool camel trench, but aren't these princess coats so unbelievably feminine? The muted, darker colors of the Alaïa number (on the left) and the Topshop style (on the right) keep the silhouette from looking too precious. Plus, the cinched waist is flattering and makes even a sweater-and-denim combo seem pulled together. What do you think?

The Weekend

Hope your weekend looks something like this!

[photo cred here]

Mark the Mini

The thing about pencil skirts is that they're difficult to (speed)walk in. When I'm hustling to work, the last thing I need is a restrictive silhouette to slow me down. Minis can be just appropriate for the office if you play them right (but still allow for a fast, I'm-not-afraid-to-trample-your-Dachshund pace). In a classic grey tweed and (at this length) paired with black tights, they're perfect with a silky blouse or collared shirt. I'm obsessed with this little DSquared2 number on the right. When I say obsessed, I mean that I hope Santa or the Easter Bunny or my fairy godmother is reading this right now. Wink. Wink wink wink.

What do you think? Does it depend on the office environment? Admittedly, mine is the kind of place where you can wear snakeskin pants or a silk jumpsuit. (Both worn by my bosses). (Who are awesome). (Whose ensembles clearly put my jeans-and-tee uniform to shame). (Would you prefer that they write this blog?). (Please don't answer that).


[photo cred here]

Fashion Math

Statement necklace + chic jacket = the perfect fall ensemble for the office.

[photo cred here and here]

October Mornings

Fall is so lovely. My roommate and I wandered up Lexington Ave to Edit New York, where I bought a Joie sweater (after feeling just how soft it was)! The weather has been so perfect--cool and crisp and sunny. What were you up to this weekend?

[photo cred to 1, 2 and 3]

Schoolgirl Twist

Peter Pan collars never fail to remind me of my whopping twelve years as a Catholic schoolgirl. I haven't gone near them since then, as they're not exactly flattering. Plus, after those twelve years, I never want to see a plaid skirt or knee socks or, of course, button down shirts with Peter Pan collars ever again. But this season, designers have gone a different route:

However, Peter Pan necklaces reimagined in tough metals? That's more edgy than schoolgirl savvy. The collared blouses themselves were all over the Fall/Winter 2011 runways, but so were the necklaces. And I love them. They're so versatile and can dress up a scoopneck tee in an instant (stay away from v-necks, however). They'd even look great worn over an actual collared blouse. I'd want to try it over something sheer and polka-dotted, in an uncomplicated black and white palette.

Here are my favorite ones:

Chanel, on the left, is light years out of my budget (duh), but the silver number is handcrafted and the perfect way to jazz up an otherwise simple ensemble.

[photo cred here and there]

Backstage at Milly

Today was baby's first blowout (at the new Drybar in Flatiron). There was a collective gasp throughout the office when I mentioned that I'd never had one before. I also went to my first fashion show today (first backstage, and then to an unexpected fifth row seat). Milly's Spring/Summer 2012 collection didn't fail to impress.

I loved the geometric patterns and vivid colors. Plus, I'm a sucker for the bright orange and navy blue combo. Every single shift dress that made its way down the runway stole my heart. The silhouettes, perfectly swingy, were simple because the patterns said it all. The pants kept in line with fall's '70s moment—either slim and cropped or loose and long, all of the trousers were high-waisted. I want everything.

The beauty backstage was incredibly simple and carried the neon touches of the clothing. The look was all about a bare face with a bright matte lip. A semi-matte lipstick in a playful shade like Nars Schiap (I just really adore Nars lipstick in general) is an easy way to get the effect. The models wore CND polish in Electric Orange with a new Effects booster (available in November) to get a more saturated shade.

And to think, I was outlining a paper on Lady MacBeth's masculinity this time last year.

(photo cred to Style.com, Narscosmetics.com and CND.com)

Touch of Gold

The simplest way to transition bright summer colors into fall? Pair them with subdued neutrals, like charcoal grey. Charcoal grey is a natural shoo-in for me. It's a) my favorite color and b) one of the reasons I'm looking forward to fall. Instead of being overplayed, though, it looks surprisingly modern when paired with a bit of gold sparkle or a rich, buttery yellow. All a light sunshine-hued jacket needs is a warm grey scarf to make it ready for this season.

(photo cred to 1 and 2)

Glitz and Glamour

Move over, beige—washed gold is my favorite neutral for autumn. Why? Paired with simple standbys like black and silver, washed gold takes on a whole new life. It combines the sheen of a metallic with the versatility of a neutral. It's luxurious, rich, and a welcome update from the typical khakis and chocolates that usually accompany fall fashion. What do you think? A little too frou-frou or just the right amount of fancy?


[photo cred here and here]

Sweater Weather

When I was in high school and working in a clothing boutique, I had to unpack and tag a box of Lauren Conrad duds. No offense to LC...but compared to the Nanette Lepore and Robert Rodriguez, her line was no match. Since then, I've been wary of celebrity designers.

Claudia Schiffer's new cashmere line, available at Net-A-Porter.com, has changed my mind (although let's be honest, my wallet is having a nervous breakdown). Plus, the concept hits my weak spot: I'm over this heat and into autumn—and sweater weather. The cozy combination of warm knits, skinny jeans and boots...are you as ready as I am?


[photos courtesy of net-a-porter.com]

Summertime Reds

One of my favorite paintings ever is that on the top left. I met Elisabeth de Cherisey at a perfume launch—she's the great great great great great great great great granddaughter of Marie Antoinette's best friend, as well as a fantastic artist. I'm obsessed with her work. Her paintings make me want to wear a red dress, or a red sunhat, or a casual pair of red sneakers. There are oh-so-subtle pops of rouge that just seem perfect for the long and lazy last days of summer.


[photo cred, clockwise from top left, to Elisabeth de Cherisey, 2 and 3]

Easy Chic

I adore this Clémentine Levy fashion story for Grazia Italia, shot by Vanessa Jackson. It seems so perfect for the summer-to-fall transition, with dark colors and easy tees and simple jeans, dressed up just the right amount with a great pair of loafers. (Full disclosure: I hate loafers. Give me a pair of ballet flats any day.) But I definitely want to steal the effortless chic that Clémentine sports here. It's not that I'm over summer, per se, but why bother trying to figure out which sundresses are sheer and which aren't when I could just slap on a pair of not so see-through pants? Is this laziness or just a personal style preference?

A Day in May

May is my favorite month — daylight lingers, the breeze is warm but not sweltering, the trees burst into whites and pinks, crickets begin chirping at night again. May had better not have an identity crisis and resign itself to weeks of rain, though (cough spring in Chicago cough); on the bright side, I get to practice my willpower by walking past tulips and not bolting back to my apartment with a stolen bouquet in hand. I used to do a number on my parents' landscaping handiwork and blame it on the rampant hordes of deer that live by my house. Mom and dad weren't amused... plus, it was pretty obvious when their Dutch tulips somehow found their way into a vase and onto my dresser.

Days in May should always consist of:

Milkshakes. Particularly the kind made with crushed Oreos
from Edzo's (the place I'll miss most when I leave Evanston). 

Laying in the sun, preferably on something soft and luxurious.

Or outside, somewhere new but no less luxurious.

Fresh-cut flowers. You deserve them, damn it.

A chic haircut... particularly this wavy bob.

[photo cred to 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5]

Pink Blossoms and Chocolate Mousse

Ahh, the buds on the trees are this close to bursting into whites and pinks, and walking under the canopy of new blooms always makes my stroll to class delicious. From time to time, I take off my headphones and just try to soak it all up: the shimmering puddles, the teensy green buds, and that biting Chicago wind on my face.

What are your plans for this week? I can finally eat cheese again(!), so I'm buying ingredients to make a spinach and strawberry salad with goat cheese as well as orechiette with broccoli rabe, sweet Italian sausage, and parmigiano reggiano (the easiest recipe ever, and so, so yummy). And pizza, I'm definitely making myself an enormous pizza with gooey mozzarella, mushrooms, and onions. I've slid into this awful habit of eating frozen chicken patties with a side of frozen onion rings, and I feel like this is the perfect opportunity to stop.

I also found this spectacularly simple recipe for chocolate chantilly!
Chocolate Chantilly
(by Herve This and Heston Blumenthal, via Cafe Fernando)
9.35 oz bittersweet chocolate (ideally 70% cocoa) chopped
1 cup water
4 tbs sugar, optional

1. Fill a mixing bowl with ice and cold water. Place a slightly larger mixing bowl on top; be sure its bottom touches the ice.
2. Melt chocolate, water, and sugar over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour melted chocolate into the top mixing bowl and whisk with a wire whisk (or electric handheld mixer) until the mixture thickens. Over-whipping will make a grainy mousse, in which case you can put it back on the stove, partially re-melt it, and whisk again.
4. Divide into cups and serve immediately; serves 4.


[photo cred to 1 via Dress Design Decor, 2 via Patterson Maker, and recipe via Oh Joy!'s pinboard]