MCLV Style: Tiger Tiger Burning Bright
Okay fine, this top is actually adorned with leopard heads not tigers, but once I got that William Blake poem in my head I was determined to use the line as a post title. My deepest apologies for the fuzzy animal inaccuracy. 🙂
{You can shop similar pieces by clicking these hyperlinks: Leopard Head Top – Asos.com, Slim Corduroy Pants – Paige Denim via Bloomingdale’s, Tan Peep-Toe Sandals – Madden-Girl via Nordstrom, Zippered Satchel – OASAP, Large Le Pliage Bag – Longchamp via Saks Fifth Avenue, Retro Gold Watch – Vintage, Geometric Gold Bracelet – BCBG Max Azria, Swarovski Crystal Ring – Gift, Spiked Necklace – H&M & Sunglasses – Oscar de la Renta}
{You can view this outfit on both Lookbook.nu and Pose}
{Check out outtakes from this shoot here – Just log into Facebook to view}
I put this look together for last Saturday’s walk down to SOMA for a photo shoot for an upcoming holiday collaboration with Sasha Maks Vintage and Mystery Mister, and that Longchamp bag I’m carrying was completely filled with shoes, handbags, and other accessories for the shoot. Stay tuned for pictures!
Are you a fan of of the animal print & animal head pieces that are all over the streets and in magazines for the Fall 2012/Winter 2013 seasons?
MCLV Style: Animalistic
Northern California is all about layering during the Fall – The mornings may start off foggy with a chill in the air only to end up in the mid seventies with the sun beating down on you by lunchtime. Since moving to San Francisco I’ve become something of a self-taught layering expert.
{You can shop similar pieces by clicking these hyperlinks: Leopard Knit Moto Jacket – Express, Siren Skinny Jeans – Victoria’s Secret, Black Tunic Tank – Club Monaco, (faux) Patent Leather Chainlink Bag – Express, Gold Geometric Bracelet – BCBG & Over-The-Knee Seude Boots – Chinese Laundry}
{You can view this outfit on both Lookbook.nu and Pose}
{Check out outtakes from this shoot here – Just log into Facebook to view}
This ended up being the perfect amount of layers, I could easily unzip the moto jacket to get some air, and take it off completely when it got too warm. We spent the day wandering around Sonoma Square and enjoying wine tastings, window shopping, and a tasty lunch at The Girl And The Fig.
Do you like to wear multiple lighter-weight layers when the weather starts to get colder in the Fall/Winter? Or do you prefer to wear thicker outerwear during the chillier seasons?
MCLV Style: Sergeant Pepper
This past weekend we participated in one of my favorite San Francisco Saturday morning rituals – A lazy walk along the bustling, sun-drenched Embarcadero to the Ferry Building Farmers Market. The vendors, shops & food stalls are amazing, the people watching & street performers are hilarious, and the view is unparalleled.
{You can shop similar pieces by clicking these hyperlinks: Sgt. Pepper Coat – H&M, Cropped Black Leggings – Victoria’s Secret, Bow Ballet Flats – H&M, Tortoise Shell Sunglasses – Aldo, Star Cocktail Ring – BCBGMAXAZRIA via Bloomingdale’s, Spiked Bracelet – ASOS & Shoulder Bag – OASAP}
{You can view this outfit on both Lookbook.nu and Pose}
{Check out more outtakes from this shoot here – just log into Facebook to view}
I ordered this handbag after swooning over Smile For Style‘s bag a few weeks ago {included in this Looks of the Week post} and I’ve been quite pleased with my first OASAP purchase. I’ve always loved High Street Fashion and shopped online at UK-based sites like Asos, Miss Selfridge & Topshop, so I’m thrilled to add another British store to my list.
Personally, I’m of the mindset – Why run errands in your workout gear if you can throw on a chic coat and make a stylish morning of it? Do you have a weekend uniform when you’re running errands? Will you keep your workout gear on when you go out into public or change into street clothes?
MCLV Style: Pardon My French
I fell madly in love with this sweater when I saw it online and knew that it had to be mine – Totally fun and perfect for Fall! First I tried pairing it with flirty, pleated black skirt but I ended up deciding on my favorite cropped black pants.
{You can shop similar pieces by clicking these hyperlinks: Pardon My French Sweater – Forever 21, Cropped Black Pants – Juicy Couture @ Bloomingdale‘s, Patent Leather Chainlink Bag – Express, Vintage Inspired Gold Bracelets – JewelMint, Spiked Bracelet – Asos.com}
{You can also view this outfit on both Lookbook.nu and Pose}
{Check out more outtakes from this shoot here – just log into Facebook to view}
I wore this for my company’s End Of Summer party two weeks ago. It was a great night filled with games – skee ball, bouncy houses, golf, mechanical bull, even a zip line – an open bar, lives music, tons of food, and a great view.
I have to admit that it’s been a while since I wore a top that had writing across the front and I’d forgotten how nerve-wracking it is when you feel like everyone’s staring at you trying to read your shirt!
How do you feel about wearing a shirt or a sweater that has writing on it?
MCLV Style: Ditzy Fox
“Are those foxes?”
“Yes. Yes they are.”
Who was it that said that boys don’t pay attention to women’s clothing? Well maybe you just need to wear something as eye-catching as a ditzy fox sweater… 🙂
{You can shop similar pieces by clicking these hyperlinks: Faux-Leather Velvet A-Line Skirt – Nicole Richie for Macys Impulse, Ditsy Fox Sweater – Forever 21, Tan Heeled Sandals – Madden Girl, Chainlink Handbag – Express, Sunglasses – ThreadSence, Studded Bracelet – H&M, Spiked Bracelet – Asos.com, Bow Ring – French Connection & Bee Ring – JewelMint}
{If you like this look you can HYPE it on Lookbook.nu or Pose}
Check out more outtakes from this shoot here – just log into Facebook to view
This was the perfect look for this past weekend – The sweater and velvet kept me warm while the skirt and open-toed heels gave an appropriate nod to it being an end-of-Summer weekend. Trading in my Summer brights for neutrals, browns, and blacks is a time-honored tradition for me when I’m making my Summer-to-Fall transition.
How do you adjust your daily looks when it comes to seasonal changes? Do you reorganize your closet so that you can more easily find your cold-weather pieces?
What I’m loving right now…
I definitely go through phases when it comes to the inanimate objects in my daily life – Everything from the beauty products I use to the accessories I wear to the reading materials stacked on my nightstand. Whether you call it a rut or finely tuning your routine, I’m sure you know precisely what I mean.
So here are some of my current (new and past) loves…
{The love of my life, my new Givenchy bag – See Skulls & Givenchy for photos from the first MCLV Style post featuring this bag!}
{My newest mascara acquisition – I’ve mentioned my love of Benefit’s BADGal and Chanel’s Inimitable mascara in the past, but I also like to rotate in a drugstore brand now and again, and I’ve been thrilled with the results of Maybelline’s One by One Volume Express}
{As far as I’m concerned you can’t have enough fun, statement jewelry: Spiked Bracelet – Asos.com & Purple Beaded Necklace – Zara}
{In my opinion the only positive thing about the end of Summer are September issues!}
{SWOON! I’ve been a fan of Moroccan Argan Oil for a while so when I saw this L’Oreal Precious Oil Treatment I jumped at the chance to try it – Not only does it smell like a dream, it’s visibly nourishing}
{It’s official – I’m in love! Skull adorned Steve Madden smoking slippers}
{Fashion Books & Vintage Jewelry. Left: The Little Black Book of Style by Nina Garcia & vintage pearl collar. Right: Parisian Chic – A Style Guide by Ines de la Fressange & vintage Vendome tassel necklace}
What are you loving lately? What can’t you get enough of? Have you gotten any fun new pieces or exciting accessories to update your wardrobe or prepare for Fall/Winter 2012/2013?
Looks of the Week
Welcome back to another Looks of the Week Monday! I hope that everyone had a great weekend and is wringing every drop of Summer fun out of these August days as they can. Let’s start our week out right with some fabulous fashionistas showing off everything from statement jewelry to mixing prints to bright colors.
Enjoy!
Nothing says Summer as effortlessly or stylishly as a white dress. And while this drapping, asymmetrical white dress is stunning it’s Kristina’s accessories that make this look stand out so well. The studded red Zara shoulder bag and killer gold spiked collar from H&M are both incredibly striking & eye-catching, they really bring this look to a whole other level.
This is a low-key but striking and sassy combination that should really motivate you to spice things up before walking out the door. Colorblocking is a great way to make a look really POP.
A sweater can be tough for men to make work for them, but this is a great example of how to put together a clean-cut, stylish look using one. Navy pants + white button down + a sweater with a flattering pattern and cut. Bonus for the killer accessories – Retro shades, white watch strap, and fabulous bag.
Love love love! This is a fabulous look from head to toe. The Versace for H&M studded top pairs beautifully with this nude, pleated leather skirt. And to top it all off, I couldn’t have picked a better clutch or more fabulous booties to add to this outfit.
This is an interesting and really eye-catching look despite the fact that there’s not a lot of color. The sequined stripes are great and I love that she chose a looser, more relaxed top to mix with the dramatic midi-length skirt. Well done!
The art of wearing lady pants is something every woman really should master. Finding the right cut and silhouette to suit your figure can take years of trial and error. If you’ve ever felt like giving up, you’ll enjoy this shot of the perfect pink pants. And those are definitely three words I never thought I’d write. 🙂
High-Low hemlines aren’t always my favorite style but I couldn’t take my eyes off of this look. The colors, the prints, and the textures are so eye-catching and deliciously Summery that I couldn’t tear myself away from the screen. Nothing short of fabulous!
Neutrals don’t have to be boring as this look proves. Stunning Victoria’s Secret Angel Candice Swanepoel shows us how to put together a relaxed, but fashionable Summertime look with this nude pleated mini, a basic white t-shirt, and cute braided sandals.
Why not make your shopping trip or errand run a bit more fun with some bold color or printed separates? This basic shorts & tank look is fun and stylish with the addition of a killer handbag, flattering green shorts, and animal print flats.
This makes me miss Fall SO MUCH. I love a great coat and this corset belted olive-green military coat is killer. Her accessorizing – bowler hat & high boots – make it even more eye-catching and cold weather-appropriate.
Chic! I love a great Summer dress and this is a phenomenal color on her. And after finding a great color & style, she personalized it and made it more “her” with the tooled leather Rebecca Minkoff bag and fabulous 3.1 Phillip Lim gladiator sandals.
And just in case you missed the fabulousness that was the Team Supermodel walk during last night’s Closing Ceremonies in London, here are some pictures and great commentary to console you – Team Supermodel Strikes Gold In London!
{Click on images above to visit the original source}
Which picture is your favorite of the shots above? Does seeing fun new looks put together by stylish people motivate and inspire you to mix things up when you’re planning your own outfits?
MCLV Style: Multicolored Pleats
As you very well know, I am a fan of pleats. I like how fresh and crisp they can look, and pleated skirts are my current favorite, whether they’re solid colored, short, or high-waisted. This multi-colored pleated skirt from SugarLips fit the bill perfectly and I was honored when they sent me the piece so that I could review it.
{Pleated Skirt – SugarLips, Thick Strap Tank – Zara, Cropped Blazer – Aqua from Bloomingdale’s, Necklace – Forever 21, Bracelet – BCBG, Handbag – Givenchy & Heeled Sandals – Madeline Stuart}
{If you like this look you can HYPE it on Lookbook.nu, shop similar pieces on ASOS Fashion Finder, or click the hyperlinks above to shop comparable pieces and visit related store websites}
Check out more outtakes from this shoot here – just log into your Facebook account to view.
I tried this out with my favorite BCBG blouse but I liked the sleek look of the black tank and the cropped blazer with the skirt; it made the look work for either the office or an evening out. And you know how much I adore a versatile look!
Now tell me, have you tried out the pleats trend this Summer? Are you a fan of multicolored pieces like this adorable skirt that can be styled in multiple ways?
MCLV’s Handbag
What do you keep in the purse that you carry around on a daily basis?
While I am in the habit of changing my purse a few times a week, the contents of my bag do not change. There are things that I jut can’t live without and there are things that I use every single day without fail.
This probably explains why I carry such a large bag everywhere… I have many, many essentials.
Alright, let’s just go ahead and wade through them now.
First and foremost among the contents of my bag in terms of importance is my planner. I couldn’t function without it. Not for a single day. I get nervous when I go out to dinner with a clutch and wonder throughout the evening if I’ll need it. And to be honest, sometimes I do. My calendar, importance phone numbers and addresses, passwords, account numbers, to do lists, reminders, post-it notes, receipts, packing lists, dry cleaning and tailor reminder slips… Anything and everything that I could possibly need during the day.
In addition to my planner I care a handful of folders and a notepad with me. I print and write out recipes, workouts, physical therapy sessions, and ideas for blogging almost daily and carry new and old versions. And in addition to those I carry a notebook to jot down note on my reading, research, outline posts that I’m planning, journal, plan conversations and emails…
You know all of the little odds and ends that you stuff into the back pocket of your purse? Chapstick and compacts and pencils? Rather than risk loosing something or leaving things I need behind when I transfer the contents of my bag to another, I got this cute Lacoste pouch to keep all the little miscellaneous pieces in. Not only am I more organized, I can find things faster too!
Burt’s Bees chapstick, lip gloss, nail file, mini roll-in Coco Mademoiselle, Laura Mercier compact, and the most important item in here, my emergency sunscreen. This little thing comes in handy a lot!
Pens, pencils, and a highlighter have saved me more than I can say. I take notes, do research, write down what I’m thinking, and jot down ideas when they come to me. All day. Every day. The life of a writer I guess. I also keep a business card case so that I have some of my own cards on hand and also so that I can keep track of the cards that I’m given. That’s a little trick I’ve picked up over the years, I used to immediately lose all the cards I was handed and it never goes well if you can’t remember the names of the people who took the time to sit down with you. Trust me.
I couldn’t live without music. I listen to Pandora all day at work and on my laptop when I get home. And for in between I have an mp3 player. I also cart around what seems like an endless supply of tiny miscellaneous items – bobby pins, paper clips, hair ties, safety pins, buttons that have fallen off my clothes… You never know when you’ll need them!
I change my wallet a couples times of year, eventually I get so sick of seeing the same thing every day that I put it back in its little box and pull out another one. I’m currently in a Goyard state of mind though. 🙂
I’ve been using this camera for a little over a year now, I got it just as I was starting this little passion project and wanted something better than the tiny clutch-appropriate digital camera I’d been using for years. My father’s been a photographer for as long as I can remember – growing up our rolls of film always came back with more pictures of birds, trees, and flowers than they did with pictures of my brother and I – so I always go to him with my camera inquiries. I’m hoping to upgrade soon though!
More basics that a girl just can’t live without… This makeup bag was a gift from Arianna when she went to London this last time and since Harrods is yet another thing that I love about London, I was beyond thrilled for this little keepsake.
My babies. One for work. One for play. I just switched my personal device from my much-loved Samsung Epic with its luxurious full keyboard to this super thin Galaxy and I’m definitely still adjusting. Isn’t it amazing how set in our ways we can get?
And last but not least…
My apartment keys – can you believe that there are four of them, I mean really, is that necessary? And the keys to my new car! If you’re not following me on Twitter than *surprise* I bought my very first car this weekend. Ya!
This post was inspired by my previous posts that gave you a look into MCLV’s Medicine Cabinet and MCLV’s Makeup Bag, as well as Style Scrapbook’s My Bag Essentials.
So tell me – What are YOUR essentials?
Fashion Inspiration
Fashion isn’t just about what you wear, what goes on your body. It’s truly an expression of yourself that extends far beyond your clothes.
“Fashion is everything. Art, music, furniture design, graphic design, hair, makeup, architecture, the way cars look – all those things go together to make a moment in time.” – Tom Ford
And just as fashion isn’t limited to the cloth that we wrap ourselves in, inspiration can also be found in many forms.
I began clipping pictures from magazines as a pre-adolescent, not so much fashion photos, just pictures that caught my eye, things that I found eye-catching or memorable or mesmerizing.
As I became interested in fashion however, my clipping habits became more focused. And while I don’t confine myself to photographs of clothing and accessories, I’ve found that my love of fashion gives this activity more direction and purpose. I’ve found that even without context, pictures can serve a creative function.
They excite. They encourage. They inspire.
The beauty and artistry captured by a photographer can be moving, regardless of the medium. Advertisements, promotional materials, editorials, art, home decor…
I’ve found that by keeping these images available to myself I can stay out of a fashion rut. They provide new ideas and inspiration, get my creative juices flowing, and motivate me to grow and evolved. I highly recommend creating and maintaining a Look Book, a collection of images that make you smile, that invigorate you, that make you push your boundaries.
Whether it’s a physical book filled with clippings like mine are, or Boards on Pinterest, this is a great creative and inspirational outlet. Keeping pictures of looks that you like, styles that call to you, photos that take your breath away, can all be great tools to keep your approach to fashion fresh and interesting.
What’s your favorite way to get inspired?
Real Girls Need Real Closets – Accessories Edition
While every girl needs to get her hands on the basics (Real Girls Need Real Closets), sometimes its the extras that really make an outfit pop.
Case in point – Eva has a stunning figure and looked sublime in this white Dior gown, but she would not have been the talk of the town without all of her gorgeous turquoise jewelry
And while, tragically, the Golden Globes isn’t on the docket for most of us, a girl can always use some standout accessories so she makes a splash on her own personal red carpet. Jewelry 
As much as I love those little blue bags at Tiffany’s, I have to confess that I’m a huge devotee of vintage and vintage-inspired jewelry. Must be the romantic in me. I like that the pieces have history, that someone has loved them, that they’re unique and one of a kind. Gold, silver, real, costume… You name it, I love it! I have some gorgeous pieces handed down to me from my mom’s side of the family, mostly gold, and I’ve been scouring vintage shops in San Francisco for years. 
Scarves/Pashminas 
If you’ve spent any time in San Francisco you know that the weather is schizophrenic to say the least. In a city where it can go from foggy to sunny to pouring rain in the span of three hours, a pashmina is a girl’s best friend. I usually have one in my purse, one at my desk, and I never travel without one (perfect if you want to avoid scratchy airplane blankets when you fly!) 
I picked up this habit living in Italy, and like French women, Italians adore their scarves. You can wear them draped over your shoulders, looped multiple times around your neck, across your neck and hanging down in back, even twisted around the handle of your purse. Gloves 
My glove obsession is probably the result of my mother raising me on Hitchcock movies. I’ve loved Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly and the rest of their contemporaries as long as I can remember. In fact, for my fifth grade wax museum I dressed up as Grace Kelly. What can I say, why would I want to be Amelia Earhart when I can wear a tiara? Driving gloves, opera length, (faux) leather, cropped, mittens, animal prints… One of my favorite and oh-so-Hitchockian ways to wear long gloves is with a boxy jacket that has 3/4 length sleeves so you can see a good portion of the glove. Add a bracelet over the glove and ta-da! 
Hats While I’m not personally much of a hat wearer, I do believe that a hat can add an extra kick to an outfit. Finding the perfect hat to suit your face shape and your outfit may be a bit of a challenge, but worth the effort if you can get it right. 
Showing us just how to pull one off, even if you’re enjoying balmy Southern California weather, I present one of my best friends, Jacqueline Koob. Unique clutch In addition to the compulsory black clutch that can be paired with anything, it’s a good idea to have a stand-out clutch to spice up an all black ensemble. 
This one is a no-name vintage clutch that my grandmother gave me. I carried it last year when I went to the San Francisco Symphony Gala and it was the perfect final touch for a sleek, classic look. 
My friend Nathaniel and I in grown-up prom mode. 🙂 The look would have been very simplistic without the fun clutch and earrings, so keep that in mind when you’re putting together a monochromatic ensemble, accessories can take it from ho-hum to wow. 
Happy hunting!
Real Girls Need Real Closets
I don’t know about you, but I adore closets. Adore. I’ve been keeping scrapbooks filled with magazine clippings for years {Fashion Inspiration} – Clothing, home decor, art, handbags, accessories & jewelry, hairstyles, fabulous photography, hotels & vacation destinations… And closets. So many beautiful closets. I may be alone in this, but I genuinely get the chills when I look at a well-organized closet.
And on that note, today I want to discuss closet basics with you. The building blocks – if you will – to a creating your very own, chill-inducing closet.
I’ve read countless books, blog posts, newspaper pieces, and magazine articles on what the essentials of a woman’s wardrobe should be. And while I adore Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, Rachel Zoe’s Style A to Zoe and the like, their recommendations can seem like they’re geared towards a fantasy jet-setting lifestyle or an heiresses’ allowance.
Neither of which I have.
Below is the real girl’s guide to picking out the key elements to incorporate into your wardrobe, including suggestions for where to look for these items, hopefully everyone can find something that appeals to both their personal style and their pocketbook!
Button-down:
A white button down is quite versatile and a great piece to have in your closet. It can be worn tucked into slacks or a pencil skirt for work, or you can wear it with a pair of shorts or slim pants on weekends. This is an especially key piece given all of the menswear inspired collections the last few seasons.
{I love the pristine formality of this tuxedo-style button down, it makes me feel like Fred Astaire when I wear it!}
The key to the right button down is a combination of fabric and cut. You want to make sure that the fabric isn’t too thin or overly see-through – unless that’s your goal, you little minx – and that the buttons don’t gap when it’s done up. I would suggest trying a few on in stores to ensure the fit. Great places to find a good, basic button down? In the past I’ve had success finding good versions at Gap, Banana Republic, and Zara {the version above is Zara}.
Trench Coat:
No matter how frumpy I’m feeling all I need to do is throw on a trench and I feel like Audrey Hepburn. Tan, black and navy are all good choices for your closet, or red if you’re feeling daring.
The trench above is one of my favorites, I especially adore the polka-dotted lining. I got it at H&M in London YEARS ago and am still wearing it to death. Trench coats can really run the gamut price wise. You can find a decent one for under $150 at Nordstrom or online at bluefly.com, while the Ferrari of trench coats, Burberry, will cost you closer to $1,500. I recommend keeping an eye out for sales at department stores like Bloomingdale, Neiman Marcus, Saks, and even Macys, since they’ll have a larger selection and you can find exactly what you’re looking for (double-breasted, wool, knit, flared, cropped, ankle-length etc).
Jeans:
If you’ve been following MCLV for a while you’ve probably picked up on the fact that I’m not much of a jeans girl by now. That being said, I do believe that everyone should have, at the very least, a pair or two of nice jeans in their repertoire.
Just in case.
My current favorites are these cropped black Juicy denim pants – They’re cute with pumps or flats, can be dressed up or down with ease, and fit like a dream. Jeans are another article of clothing that I believe must be tried on rather than ordered online. Fit, length, snugness… All these aspects are crucial to finding the right pair. Stores like Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom are great because they have large denim departments so you can try on various pairs and have your very own Goldilocks moment. Too big. Too tight. Juuust right!
Pearls:
A pearl necklace is a must and instantly adds a touch of Breakfast At Tiffany’s to any ensemble. Don’t panic though, there’s plenty of costume jewelry on the market that will perfectly suit your needs and wont break the bank. Macy’s, Ann Taylor and J.Crew have great classic versions and Lord & Taylor, Kenneth Jay Lane and Max & Cleo have some funkier versions if you’re looking for something with a modern edge. And don’t worry if a single strand, a la grandma, isn’t your style. Try multiple twisted strands, versions with metal and stones intertwined with the pearls or even a drop pendant.
{Kenneth Jay Lane for Bergdorf Goodman}
LBD:
Originated by Coco Chanel in the 1920’s, the Little Black Dress became an overnight sensation and an instant classic. Whatever your personal style, there’s a LBD with your name on it out there. Strapless, long-sleeved, knee-length, mid-thigh, lace insets, sheer panels, cutouts, interesting fabrics and textures… So many choices, only 7 nights in a week! I love a little lace for nighttime, so I was thrilled when I found the Jill Stuart dress above, which fulfilled all of my current loves: flattering cut, eye-catching details and a design that is just a little bit naughty. The nude panels and lace make a relatively conservative cut younger and more fun. Paired with booties and a fitted blazer, parfait for a night out on the town! You can find a LBD at most stores, but my recommendation would be to keep an eye on websites like shopbop.com, theoutnet.com, bluefly.com and Zappos Couture for steals on designer frocks.
Blazer:
A well-made, fitted blazer in black or navy is crucial to a girl’s wardrobe. Paired with slacks or a skirt, or worn over a dress for work, over jeans or a cocktail dress during your off-hours. I love the juxtaposition of silhouettes when a cropped blazer tops off a short, flirty frock. As with trenches, a blazer come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Boyfriend length, shrunken, ruffled, embellished, linen, knit, tuxedo-inspired. The options are unlimited.
If you get a quality piece and stick with a more classic cut, a blazer can truly last. The one above was purchased during my first mom-sponsored work shopping trip before I started the interview circuit my senior year of college and in the last six weeks I’ve worn it with black slacks and a sweater to work, and over cropped, slim black pants and a tunic on a weekend. This one is from Banana Republic, I would also check out Zara, Anne Taylor and J.Crew for other classic versions.
Handbag:
I should probably preface this section by confessing that I have a slight purse problem. Don’t worry though. I’m looking for a 12 step program.
Every girl needs a good, basic handbag. Something that will go with virtually any outfit, during any season. It’s fun to switch up your bag as seasons and trends come and go, but having a well-made bag that you can always count on is a must.
The first picture is the love of my life, found on super-sale at Barney’s New York. There are many shapes and sizes out there, so heading into a store to see how a new design looks on your arm is a good idea (you wouldn’t take your arm candy out for a night on the town without seeing how he looks in the mirror, would you?) I recommend keeping an eye on the handbag sales at Bloomingdale, Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue for great deals.
Clutch:
The perfect way to accessorize your LBD is a clutch. There are many choices out there, crystal and stone embellished satin, jeweled, envelope, metal box clutches, classic black snake-skin… There’s something for everyone! The black beaded clutch above was handed down to me from my grandmother and I love the old-fashioned glamour it evokes.
And luckily for all the purse-lovers out there, clutches aren’t just for nighttime anymore. Day clutches have been making appearances over the last few seasons, especially in lighter colors and fun patterns. And as much as I love my giant carryalls, it’ll probably be good for my posture, shoulders and neck if I stop carrying around half of my apartment with me each day. The Asos Portfolio Clutch pictured above is currently en route to my apartment and I plan to love the lining out of it all Spring!
Black pumps:
The right shoe can change your life! {At this point my mother is reading this and shaking her head sadly, wondering where she went wrong with me}
But really. It can.
There was a time when I did not believe this and *gasp* wore cheap shoes. But I have seen the light! It is worth the time, effort and money to find shoes that genuinely fit your feet and are well made. Always try on shoes before buying them to make sure. My favorite brands for work heels are Franco Sarto, Cole Haan, BCBG, BCBGirl, Max Studio, Fendi and Calvin Klein.
My number one tip for picking the right shoe? Know your limits! Have you ever seen a woman shuffle-strutting down the street with tiny, delicate steps? Her heels are too high. Don’t be that woman! Stay in your comfort zone so that you can walk easily and naturally.
Boots:
I think that a woman should have a few different types of boots in her closet. Booties to wear with pants or a cocktail dress, knee-high black boots for dresses and skirts, a neutral colored boot that can be worn during non-boot seasons and, if necessary for your region, rainboots.
{As a semi-aquatic resident of the lake formerly known as San Francisco, rain boots are a must. I tested my new Hunters out a few weekends ago in Sonoma, splashing and wading through puddles and generally making a nuisance of myself. And I’m happy to report that they are, in fact, waterproof.}
{The booties below are my current favorites, I always feel a little rock n’ roll when I throw them on}
{This is a Spring look that I put together with the help of Shopstyle to show lighter colored boots worn in a non-Wintery way}
Flats
From Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe to Michelle Obama and Carla Buni-Sarkozy, everyone loves a good pair of flats. My personal favorites are Ruby & Bloom, J.Crew, H&M, and, yes, Jessica Simpson. For me, breaking in flats results in drastically more blisters and uncomfortable moments than heels, so the key for me is to find flats that are soft. Below are my not initially soft, but finally broken in sparkly Dorothy flats from the Vera Wang for Kohl’s collection.
And with these tips, I leave you. Go forth and conquer your closets!
Veni, vidi, vici!
{Photographs are mine unless otherwise cited – Click on the images from other sites and you will be taken to the original source}
Moi Contre La Vie 