Thirteen Things for 2013

Since my last post, summer turned to fall, which turned to winter...which turned to 2013.  Yikes, how the time flies.  So happy New Year to my long neglected but still greatly beloved friends at She's Come Unheeled!  In honor of the New Year and new resolutions ("blog more" is obviously included on my list), I wanted to share thirteen things  that I am already loving or want/need/havetohave in 2013.

Vinyasa Scarf, $48
by Lululemon

Vinyasa Scarf: My amazing sister got me this scarf for Christmas, and it is pretty much the best thing ever.  Its basic function is like an infinity scarf, but this one snaps together so it can essentially be worn in infinity different ways too!  So far, I have only worn it in two ways: snood-style and hood.  I was in Florida last month, and when the temperature dipped towards chilly, this scarf was my go-to accessory to stay warm.  Plus, for you Lulu-addicts like me, this scarf is made with soft Rulu, Lulu's signature running luon fabric that's moisture-wicking and breathable so you won't overheat.  In my humble opinion, this one is a wardrobe must.

My Vinyasa Scarf in action on the Florida beach!

Thickening Mascara, $30
by Trish McEvoy
Available at Nordstrom

Thickening Mascara: Trish McEvoy's new mascara is my new cosmetic obsession.  It promises a "formal, false lash effect," a marketing sentiment that was pretty much guaranteed to reel me in (as my husband says, I'm a "marketer's dream").  Nevertheless, I've been using it for months now, and I completely love it.  When I originally made my purchase, I was disappointed to learn that this mascara doesn't have the same tubing effect as Trish's other mascaras, which was one of the primary reasons I started using Trish mascara in the first place.  However, the girl at the Trish counter at Nordstrom advised me to layer this one over my faithful Lash Curling mascara so that I could sort of cheat my way to the tubing effect I desired.  Well, my Lash Curling recently ran out, and after a minor panic attack, I just forged ahead and used the Thickening Mascara by itself.  I have to admit that it works a LOT better on its own!  While no mascara on the planet is able to fully achieve the false-lash look, this one really does do a fabulous job of thickening and building my lashes to make them fan out and really pop.  Every girl needs this.

Harper's new pink TOMS

TOMS: It took me a while to jump on the TOMS bandwagon, but when my mother gave me a pair of fuzzy-lined wool TOMS for my birthday last summer, I was sold (see above sunset photo--I'm rocking my Vinyasa Scarf and my TOMS at the same time, holler!).  The cozy lining helped me transition into the cooler fall months, and the TOMS style is both comfortable and versatile.  Of course, their "One for One" mission (with every pair of shoes purchased, TOMS gives a new pair of shoes to a child in need) is amazing too and reason in itself to support TOMS.  Then I also realized that they make BABY TOMS!  They are basically the cutest footwear you will ever see, but I did have trouble committing to a purchase when Harper is at an age where she is growing out of her clothes faster than I can possibly keep up with.  SO...you can imagine how thrilled I was to find a pair of pink baby TOMS at my local kids' consignment shop just this week, and (wonder of all wonders) they were actually in Harper's size.  How can you not just melt when you see itty bitty TOMS?  Really now.

Frenzy, $27
by Chanel

Chanel Frenzy: Yes, while it's true that I am constantly in a state of Chanel frenzy, what I'm actually referring to Frenzy with a capital "F," from Chanel's Fall 2012 nail color line.  My sister gave me a bottle for a hostess gift at Thanksgiving, and it instantly became my favorite neutral.  Move over, Sand Tropez!  While the Essie color formerly occupied by number one spot, Frenzy bumped it down a notch.  The stony khaki color accomplishes a feat that every neutral should: it is visible yet nude.  That is to say, this shade of smokey greyish beige (dare I say, greige?)packs enough punch that it doesn't wash you out, even in the doldrums of winter, but it also won't compete with other colors you might be wearing on a given day.  As a neutral, I personally feel that it can be worn regardless of the season, and if you're going to shell out the big bucks for a Chanel polish, I think that is an important qualifier.

Tumbled Leather Reva Ballet Flat
in party fuschia, $235
by Tory Burch

Reva Flat: As I've already confessed, since having my baby, I have Come Unheeled in more ways than one.  Most often, I mean this literally, as my heels have been sadly neglected for the last 14 months.  It's basically an issue of practicality, since I find it easier to carry Harper and all her gear when I haven't added an extra four inches.  I also took a new job last spring and spend a lot of my work day walking between buildings on an urban campus, which is also a lot easier to do in flats.  All that being said, I have finally discovered for myself why Tory Burch's Reva Flat is so wildly popular.  I could truly wear this shoe everyday.  It is cute yet completely comfortable, not to mention Tory is always coming out with new, irresistible color options.  On that note, I'm loving the Reva in party fuschia, a bold pink patent leather that is just perfect for spring.  And also Valentine's Day (calling all cupids!).

Delightful GM, $1,340
by Louis Vuitton

Louis: I am turning 30 this year (gasp!).  For some time now, it has been my plan to own the Chanel Grand Shopper by the time I turned 30.  In the event that it didn't happen, plan B was to purchase the Chanel Grand Shopper for myself on my 30th birthday.  I mean, birthday at Chanel?  That hardly sounds bad!  Unfortunately, Chanel isn't exactly in the budget right now.  Sigh.  Still, I have my heart set on a fancy new bag for my fancy new decade...  Fortunately, there is no shortage of gorgeous bags in the world, and that is precisely where Louis comes in.  I discovered Louis Vuitton's Delightful GM a couple of years ago, and it definitely made an impression.  First of all, it's HUGE.  Forget Mary Poppins' bag, this one can fit way more stuff--and that's totally key for a girl on the go.  Of course, the monogram canvas is classic, perhaps even a staple in the fashion community, but the I like the way the slouchy hobo style gives this particular bag a more relaxed vibe.  The one tiny downside is that the Delightful GM isn't customizable with Louis' Mon Monogram Collection, but that's so not a deal-breaker.  With eight months to go until my big birthday, I'm now on the search for a fairy godmother, preferably one with an in at Louis Vuitton, but in the meantime, I'll have to start saving.

Sperry Top Sider for J. Crew
in platinum gold, $98

Gold Topsiders: I've been debating the purchase of gold Sperrys for well over two years now.  Clearly, I have problems with indecision, but when I received some J. Crew gift credit over the Christmas holiday, I knew the time to hesitate was through.  I am happy to report that I'm now the proud owner of my very own shiny, metallic Sperrys.  While I won't be able to wear them for several more months, in the meantime, they are sitting happily in my closet, just the golden beacon of light that I need to make it through the long, cold winter.  Like I said, I'm turning 30 this year so I need to make it a golden one.

Say Yes "Yes" Necklace, $78
by Kate Spade 

Kate Spade Wedding: My college bff is getting married this spring so I have lately been obsessing over Kate Spade's Wedding Belles collection with her mind.  Whether for the bride, bridesmaids, or honeymoon, each item is pretty and timeless, with a little bit of whimsy. People say that a woman never looks more beautiful as the day she is married, and I love the way Kate Spade's collection celebrates this very idea of the bride as a beautiful wedding belle.  With pure sentiments like this "Yes" necklace, sacred vows are honored in a fashionably sweet way.  Yay for goin' to the chapel!

Rolled Slim in Lily Dot, $198
from Marc by Marc Jacobs
Available at Bloomingdales

Polka Dot: I inherited my affinity for patterns and prints from my mother, who especially loves polka dots.  Really though, who doesn't?  So I was immediately attracted to these fun jeans from Marc by Marc Jacobs.  Here, the inherent femininity of a pretty little polka dot is turned on its nose with fading and distressing.  I love the resulting casual but girly aesthetic, perfect for spring and summer.  Now I just need them to go on sale!

Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20- Illuminating
in warm radiance, $43
by Laura Mercier
Available at Sephora

Fake Flawless Skin: I received a free sample of Laura Mercier's Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 from Sephora a while back.  I threw it in my make-up bag and didn't think much more about it...until my early sleepless nights with a new baby had me looking a little less than rested.  Without an under-eye concealer handy, I thought I might use it as a stand-in.  Now I am loving it!  Admittedly, it is not supposed to be used as under-eye concealer.  However, I tend to shy away from heavy or more pronounced cosmetic products, which concealers often are, and so this tinted moisturizer is much more my speed.  As a lightweight, sheer foundation with a hint of sheen and color, I've found that it masks any under-eye shadows and instead gives my eyes a fresh, almost dewy look.  Of course, I'm sure it also works fabulously when applied as intended, as a tinted allover facial moisturizer.  I haven't actually tried that yet, but I'll be sure to report back if I do.

Pyramid Stud Silicone Case
in blazer blue, $45
by Tory Burch

Tech Accessories: My beloved Kate Spade iPhone case looks like it has seen better days (it has) so I have recently been on a request to find a replacement.  After recently finding myself on the losing end of a heated Ebay bidding war for the case I really wanted and couldn't find anywhere, I had to accept that maybe there were other fish in the sea.  I'm happy to report that there are!  I came across this Pyramid Silicone Stud case by Tory Burch online the other day, and it might be just the fish I'm looking for.  As I've said before, I'm a sucker for studs and spikes so I'm loving their very practical manifestation here.  This case is available in "blazer blue" and "royal fuschia."  While I'm typically more of an everymustbepink type of girl, I'm actually feeling drawn to the blue.  I feel like the "blazer blue" (navy) gives the studs a more subtle, dignified feel, perfect for the New Year and a more grown-up me.

Keeper Chambray Shirt, $78
by J. Crew

Chambray: My husband loves chambray, which is only further evidence that my born-and-bred California boy is becoming more of a New Englander with each passing day.  He has several chambray shirts, but up until recently, my personal chambray count was 0. So you can imagine how excited I was to unwrap one of his Christmas gifts to me and to discover my very own chambray shirt inside!  I am drawn to casual, effortless feel of chambray, but I also like that it can be dressed up by tucking it into a skirt.  About a month ago, I saw the cutest outfit on display in the J. Crew window, where the chambray shirt was tucked into a red and green plaid skirt and paired with black tights and a statement necklace.  Now I just need to complete the rest of that outfit!

Cultured Pearl Earrings, $925
by Tiffany & Co.

Tiffany Pearls: I received my Tiffany pearl earrings from my mother when I was in college, and I have worn them pretty much everyday since.  Pearls are, of course, timeless and elegant, and there isn't an outfit on the planet that doesn't look better with pearls.  Recently, however, I have begun to feel like my pearls need a new look.  I had been debating going one size bigger than the pearls I already have--that is, until I saw Tiffany's cultured pearl earrings.  A stunning adaptation of the traditional pearl look, these earrings are 18k white gold with cultured pearls and round brilliant diamonds.  They are nothing short of breathtaking, and if I were so lucky as to have these, I feel that I can quite honestly say I would never need another pair of earrings again.  

So there you have it.  As you can see, while I'm making every attempt to be practical these days, I simply can't help but dream big.  However, I would feel remiss if I didn't mention how blessed I feel for all the things I already have.  In fact, just this morning, when I mentioned the handbag on my wishlist, my husband reminded me that I don't need a handbag to feel like I have arrived--that the little girl asleep in the backseat of the car during our conversation was evidence of how far I have come in life.  While I don't like conceding, he was/is undeniably right.  I have so much to be grateful for, and I feel lucky for that everyday.  BUT...I still want my Louis bag.  And on that note, until next time, happy New Year--and happy shopping!

She's Come Unheeled Comes Unheeled

Coming unheeled with my girl

Since I brought my sweet baby home from the hospital this past winter, I have been struggling to maintain She's Come Unheeled--which you may or may not have already concluded from my lack of regular posting.  It's not that I don't still love fashion (I do!), or writing (I do!)--but my adventures as a self-proclaimed fashionista have become...different. 

It may be that my priorities have shifted.  Darn conscience; I can't feel like a good mama if my credit card is burning a hole in my wallet after splurging on a pair of shoes or handbag that I really shouldn't buy, when there are diapers, wipes, formula, and baby gear to buy.  Glamorous, huh?  Yet, I still feel a sense of calm come over me when I walk through the front doors of Bloomingdales and step onto that signature black-and-white tiled floor, and there are more dog-eared pages than not in the newest J. Crew catalog.  I am, it seems, still a fashionista (what relief!), but I am also a mother, and the latter has afforded me a new lens through which to view the world--of fashion and otherwise.  So, just as I have found myself rocking my lovely yet sensible Tory flats instead of my exquisite and indulgent Louboutins lately, I feel that it is time for She's Come Unheeled to come unheeled--as I have.

No, I'm not quitting!!!  Please.  Rather, I am embracing the changing nature of my adventures as a self-proclaimed fashionista so the tone of She's Come Unheeled will likely change accordingly, now that my days aren't all filled with my lust for a Chanel handbag (just most of them).  I am guessing that there will be some days devoted to my new favorite nail polish or the shoes I'm coveting, but I am also excited to write about the amazing children's consignment shop I discovered, whether or not baby girls should wear bikinis, and the delicious mocktail recipe I tested while my babe was napping.  Don't worry, I will NOT be giving up designer denim in favor of mom jeans (the horror!), but beyond that, I'm not entirely sure where my new adventures will take me.  I just hope that you, like me, will look forward to finding out--and maybe, just maybe, coming unheeled with me. 

Flower Power

Flower Lattice Necklace in multi-color, $228
by J. Crew

I have admired statement necklaces for a while, but with the exception of larger-than-life pearls, I have yet to invest in one for myself.  Then I spotted this Flower Lattice Necklace in the most recent J. Crew catalog, and I have been obsessing about it ever since.  Made of hand-cut faceted stones and Czech glass, the multi-color blooms make me think of a blinged out watercolor.  It is the perfect summer necklace, with playful flowers in a color palette that works for day or night, work or play.  I want this!  


So what's my hesitation?  On a daily basis, I wear three silver charm necklaces that I have grown so attached to that I can't imagine removing them--but of course, I would have to if I were to wear the Flower Lattice Necklace, as it is a statement unto itself.  There's also the question of price (it ain't cheap!)...  So this is something I'm going to have to keep my eye on, and maybe I'll luck out with a summer sale that will help me bring some flower power home.  Fingers crossed!

Lovely Lace: Worn 3 Ways

Raindrop Lace Top in apricot mist, $110
by J. Crew

When I returned to work in March after my maternity leave, my mom sweetly helped ease this challenging transition by gifting me a few "back to school" items.  Don't judge; for me, retail therapy always works.  One such item was J. Crew's Raindrop Lace Top, which has quickly become my favorite top ever.


This intricate lace top is available in navy, pale apricot, and neon pink; mine is navy.  The ultra-feminine aesthetic inherent to lace is balanced with details like the scalloped hems with roughly fringed edges.  Albeit elegant, this top is also totally versatile; I have already worn it three ways:
(1) For work- with grey pinstripe suit pants, ankle boots, and an argyle cardigan.
(2) For dress up- over a white tank, with a pleated tangerine skirt, and navy canvas wedges.
(3) For play- over a grey tank with skinny dark denim, flip-flops, and a leopard print headband.


In addition to being my favorite top ever, it's also clearly a good investment piece; how rare for a single top to work so well in such a range of situations and dress codes!  I love it so much that I may just need to add the pale apricot and hot pink to my closet as well...  

I Am Thankful For My Fashionista Friends, Episode 7: Pretty In Pearls

My sister, fastening my grandmother's necklace this past summer

Over the years and throughout many a fashion adventure, I have come to appreciate the value of accessories.  In fact, sometimes it is an accessory that makes an outfit, for even the most basic look can be instantly transformed by the right necklace, bracelet, or ring.  For me, pearls are the best example of this fashion rule, a lesson that I have learned from my amazing grandmother.  Regardless of the occasion, my grandmother's inherent elegance is only heightened by the strand of pearls she wears at her neck, and I am thankful to her for being a shining example of style and grace.



My husband-to-be puts on my pearls
Photo by Ross Jacob Photographers, August 2006



Shockingly, I never owned a strand of pearls of my own until shortly before I was married, when my mother gifted me a necklace and earring set as my "something new."  The necklace just so happened to be precisely what I needed to complete my country chic bridal look.  Since then, that necklace has become an accessory staple, and I often rely on it to complete my look.  For my 9 to 5, I wear a lot of black (I am not a morning person so it's just easier that way), but the right heels and a strand of pearls give head-to-toe black an elegance that even Coco Chanel could (and did) approve of. 

Lady Four Strand Pearl Necklace, $325
by J. Crew

The same applies for when you're running short on time.  As you may recall, one of my dear friends shared the following important fashion "do" for She's Come Unheeled's second birthday post earlier this year: # 40) Opt for pearls and a ponytail if you simply don't have time for a shower.  Indeed, the power of pearls is their ability to transcend and transform.  Whether the situation arises when you're pressed for time; your luscious locks are in need of a wash; you're feeling generally blah; or you're craving a bit of timeless elegance in your look, a strand of pearls is all a girl really needs in a pinch.  In my humble opinion, this is more than just a rule of fashion; rather, it's a life lesson that I am thankful to my grandmother for teaching me by example. 

The Neon Question

9" Chino Shorts in shocking pink, $35
by J. Crew

A couple of weeks ago, while shopping at J. Crew, I was thrilled to see neon pink everywhere.  In fact, while waiting in line for an open register, I noticed that the girl in front of me had a pair of neon pink shorts in her pile--which got me thinking: I love neon, but can I pull off those shorts? 

Indeed, neon--whether pink, yellow, green, or orange--is tricky.  I've had success with small pops of neon, like Essie's Punchy Pink on my nails or a flashy neon headband.  But to commit to a full neon article of clothing is a big question mark for me; that is to say, I'm not totally sure how much neon is too much neon.  The shorts I'm currently coveting are J. Crew's 9-inch chino Bermuda shorts in the aptly categorized shade of "shocking pink."  I'm not going to lie, they are somewhat blinding to look at, yet I sort of love them...  But would I look absolutely ridiculous?  Maybe.  There's also a distinct possibility that it would be impossible to stare directly at me if I were wearing such a shockingly pink pair of shorts--sort of like staring at the sun.  Decisions, decisions.


Jessica Alba, rocking neon with neutrals
Photo thanks to Marie Claire, May 2011


So I've been having this neon debate in my head for the last couple of weeks.  Then, just this past weekend, while catching up on a neglected stack of fashion magazines, I happened upon some sage wisdom from Tim Gunn in the May 2011 issue of Marie Claire.  In his regular column, "Gunn Laws," he solves readers' style conundrums, and in the May issue, one reader cleverly voiced the neon question, inquiring what she should pair with a neon cardigan.  Gunn advises against pairing neon with white or black, instead recommending mid-tone neutrals, such as grey or brown, to lend a sophistication that could otherwise cause the neon to look jejune.    As evidenced by the accompanying photo of Jessica Alba, there is something to be said for balancing a brilliant neon with an warm yet understated neutral shade; somehow, the pairing seems to lesson the blatant shock of such a bright color while preserving its stylish punch.

After reading "Gunn Laws," it appears I have my answer: neon pink shorts can work, but only if paired properly.  Of course, this only begs the question: what is the proper pairing?  I guess I won't be adding the shorts to my online shopping cart just yet, but I'm definitely thinking about it.  So if you have any suggestions as to what might make my shocking pink shorts a bit more wearable, I implore you to help a neon-loving girl out; send me an email or post a comment below!

(You Can Have) Sunshine On A Cloudy Day

When I was growing up, on rainy March days like this one, my mother would always say, "March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb." That saying would somehow keep us going, knowing that the end was in sight--that there was indeed light (and spring!) at the end of a long, gloomy tunnel. And while today is precisely that kind of dreary day, after the brutal winter we've had, I find myself grateful for rain instead of snow, humidity rather than freezing temperatures, and cheerful red Hunter rain boots instead of my weather-beaten leaky Uggs. Truly, it's the little things that keep us going, and as fashionistas, it only takes a little pop! of color to have sunshine on a cloudy day.

You may have already started to notice that spring has sprung--in the catalogs and in the stores, at least. I have been happily perusing the pages, creating a mental "to buy" list based on this season's fashions. The common theme on said list is, of course, COLOR. I have come to realize that it makes all the difference, and it is perhaps for this very reason that I found myself inextricably drawn to a pair of fabulous yellow shoes...

Called "elegantly edgy," the very sight of J. Crew's new Sevigne Washed Leather Heels restored sunshine to my rainy morning. Made in Italy using a special washed lamb that's known for its buttery smooth texture, these sunny yellow heels feature a matte stacked heel and an exposed back zipper. I'm especially partial to the platform design since it provides added comfort, along with easy walking, but it's the pop! of yellow that really sells me on this shoe. It's also available in a "soft sandalwood" nude, but in my view, the citrusy zing that J. Crew calls "sour lemon" is fun, versatile, and sure to add a bit of sunshine to any kind of day.

Image: Sevigne Washed Leather Heels in sour lemon $285 by J. Crew, available online (www.jcrew.com).

Tonight We're Going to Party Like It's...2011

Okay, okay, so "tonight we're going to party like it's 2011" doesn't exactly have the same ring to it as Prince's "1999." Nonetheless, with the New Year fast approaching, it is our solemn duty as fashionistas to celebrate in style. So without further ado, allow me to suggest a few wardrobe possibilities for whatever venues you might currently be considering (decisions, decisions!)...

(1) If your plan is to party like a rockstar...then you need the Althazar Dress by Tory Burch. Once thought to be irreverent, even a fashion faux-pas, the combination of navy and black is now considered bold, modern, and sophisticated. Its body con fit and rows of sequin stripes brings the Althazar's timeless silhouette to a whole new level--one that's simply made for a new year. Styling tip: best worn with opaque black tights and your very highest black heels.

(2) If you're snuggly and snowbound...then you need the Electra Vest from the J. Crew Collection. Reinterpret "snow bunny" by adding a bit of hipster flair with this electra-fying furry vest. Made of Italian shearling panels with a defined collar, the short and fitted silhouette is ultra flattering when worn over a boyfriend top and paired with skinny jeans. The overall effect is a subtly modern homage to the après ski look. Styling tip: tousled hair and hipster glasses are optional...but absolutely fabulous.

(3) If you're braving the elements...then you need this Wool Felt Coat from Marc by Marc Jacobs. Because let's be honest, freezing outside is so not hot. The good news is that it's hip to be warm when you select the right outerwear, and this Marc classic (worn by the likes of Sienna Miller and Blake Lively's Serena van der Woodsen) brings a bit of military edge to the table with its gold tone buttons and hook and bar closures. And because the details really do matter, this jacket's bold red lining adds a little pop! of color that can boost a fashionista's spirits during the doldrums of winter. Styling tip: As fabulous as Blake/Serena may look in her itty bitty mini and spiky heels, if you're spending NYE in the bitter cold outdoors, ditch the stilettos and opt for sleek riding boots instead (shearling lined is a plus).

One of the things I love most about New Year's is that there's not just one option for celebrating. In fact--rather symbolically, I think--the possibilities are endless. For some, this means going downtown and standing in the freezing cold as the minutes tick down to midnight. Others opt for parties with friends, or cozy evenings at home with loved ones. One of my high school friends celebrated his birthday on New Year's, and so--in my younger years--December 31 always meant the most fun birthday party everrr. But whatever your New Year's Eve protocol, style is a MUST. And on that note, cheers to a very fashionable New Year.

Images, in order of appearance: (1) Althazar Dress by Tory Burch $416.50 (now on sale for an additional 25% when you enter promo code "extra25" at check out!), available online(http://www.toryburch.com/); (2) Electra Vest $498 by J. Crew from the J. Crew Collection, available online (http://www.jcrew.com/); (3) Wool Felt Coat from Marc by Marc Jacobs $340.80 (on sale--marked down from $568!!), available at Saks Fifth Avenue and online (http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/); (4) Marc Jacobs' Wool Felt Coat as worn by Sienna Miller, photo thanks to iOffer (http://www.ioffer.com/); (5) Marc Jacobs' Wool Felt Coat as worn by Blake Lively on the set of Gossip Girl, photo also thanks to iOffer.

All Zipped Up

I'm all about the exposed zipper look, be it on a dress, pants, sweater--whatever. So you can imagine how pleased I was to discover this zipper bracelet at J. Crew, as it's essentially just an exposed zipper. Period. Now, how fabulous is that?

Available in black and taupe, J. Crew's Double Wrap Zipper Bracelet is the perfect marriage of punk and princess. Made of rayon ribbon, a bold zinc zipper zips through, wraps twice, and knots at the end. Simple, yes--but that doesn't make it any less fierce. Given its inherent versatility, I'm into to the black (shocking, I know), though the taupe may indeed be a little less heavy metal. I guess it's a fashionista's prerogative; how edgy do you want to go? Not for nothing, if you put this awesomely amazing accessory on your wish list this year, Santa's getting off easy; it retails for a mere $26.50, and I've been very well behaved this year... Time to get all zipped up!




Images: Double Wrap Zipper Bracelets in warm taupe (1) and black (2) $26.50 each, by J. Crew, available online (www.jcrew.com).

Sail Away!--A Head to Toe Guide

In preparation for my family's trip to Monhegan Island this weekend, my mind has been focused on all things ocean-related for the past few days. And you know what that means: there are crucial weekend wardrobe choices to be made! We've talked about it numerous times before, but there is no summer style quite like nautical fashion. It's simple yet classic, elegant yet comfortable--and who can argue with that? So in honor of my weekend plans and my summer fashion obsession, let's do a little refresher course, shall we? Read on and learn how to sail away!--from head to toe:

Get tied down: I've seen countless pieces of anchor-inspired jewelry recently, and while I'm admittedly in love with anchor iconography, you have to be cautious of your look becoming overly literal...and thus too costume-y. Made of brass with rope detailing and a lobster clasp closure (so appropriate), this rope necklace from Tory Burch looks great with both summer whites AND sailor stripes! Price tag: $137 (on sale!)

Be a star in stripes: This cheerful red-striped tee is inherently sailor chic, especially when you account for the nautical-inspired buttons at the left shoulder--or the way it inspires you to say, Ahoy! And not for nothing--especially with those July 4 BBQs right around the corner--it's also a bit patriotic. Price tag: $58

Layer against the salty breeze: For those of you who spend a lot of time by the ocean (lucky!), you know that the dress code is all about layers. Sea breezes pick up at night, and even though it might be summer, it can still be rather chilly! Keep warm in style with this waistcoat styled cardigan from Leifsdottir, that is both elegant and completely functional--and with a bit of a military twist to boot! Price tag: $188

Bottoms up: One of the rules of fashion I make every attempt to live by is, whenever possible, keep it comfy. Truth be told, with my love of high high heels, it's really not always possible, but comfy is totally the name of the game where bottoms are concerned. As is versatility--yet another reason why I'm sooo into these Congo Skinny Cargo pants by Citizens of Humanity. Made of stretch twill with tons of pockets, you can walk the collect shells along the beach in your bare feet and then dust off the sand, throw on some heels, and head out for lobster dinner! All in a hard day's work. Price tag: $172

Stay on the Top Side(r): Let's be real here; as outstanding as some killer 5-inch wedges would look with the above wardrobe selections, if we're talking nautical, we need to be talking about boat shoes. I've made my opinions known (why have anything else but metallic?!), but those who prefer to keep their look a bit more understated may like the neutral look of these dusty sage deck shoes by Sperry. Whatever your color palette, you're guaranteed to be golden in this classic footwear. Price tag: $98

It's in the (sail)bag: I've always loved the look of recycled sail bags, and since they're also eco-friendly, it's a purchase you can really feel good about. This particular style from Maine-based Angela Adams and Sea Bags is as durable and water-resistant as it is fun and fashionable. With hemp handles long enough to go over the shoulder and a hook-and-ring closure to keep your valuables stowed safely, this one bag is all you need for a day at the beach, an on-island weekend, or any other adventures you might have planned this summer! Price tag: $198

Sadly, not all of us are able to make a quick getaway on our own personal yacht (or, in my case, even a sailboat, canoe, or dingy!), but with a few key wardrobe items, you can still look the part. In fact, the carefree ease of nautical fashion makes cruise control relatively easy. So what are you waiting for? Sail away!

Images, in order of appearance: (1) "Perfect for Sailing" photograph by Tom Palumbo from Harper's Bazaar, 1956/57, image thanks to Paris Hotel Boutique Journal(parishotelboutique.blogspot.com); (2) Rope Necklace $137 (on sale!) by Tory Burch , available online (http://www.toryburch.com/); (3) Yardarm Tee in red motif $58 by Velvet, available from Anthropologie (http://www.anthropologie.com/); (4) Waistcoat Cardigan $188 by Leifsdottir, also available from Anthropologie; (5) Congo Skinny Cargos $172 by Citizens of Humanity, also available from Anthropologe; (6) Top-Sider Authentic Original Two-Eye Boat Shoes in dusty sage $98 by Sperry, available form J. Crew (http://www.jcrew.com/); (7) Diagonal Stripe Sail Bag by Angela Adams and Sea Bags for J. Crew $198, available online.

Pretty Pretty Plaid

It isn't often that I fall in love with a head-to-toe catalog look. Well, perhaps I should rephrase; it isn't often that I fall in love with a head-to-toe catalog look that I can actually wear in its entirety. There are many reasons for this, though my height and style are primary. Yet, this fashion feat actually happened this past weekend! Allow me to recap...

As I was innocently shoe shopping with my lovely friend, India, we popped into J. Crew to kill a few minutes while waiting for our table to be ready at a nearby restaurant. Lo and behold, I didn't even make it through the door, for the impeccably styled window display was calling to me. Wearing cropped plaid pants, a sequined tee, and a playful straw fedora, this mannequin was...sooo me! Upon closer inspection, the tee was actually a sequined tank layered over a basic tee, but who's counting? Part prepster, part beach bum, and part glam goddess, this outfit--in my humble opinion--is the ultimate in summer style.

Clearly, this look is made by the pretty pretty plaid pants. For argument's sake, let's say the rest of these items were paired with a pair of cut-off jeans instead of madras; definitely a do-able (and cute) outfit--but somehow lacking the instant character and boldness of plaid. PLUS, these particular plaid pants have an extra bit of edge, with exposed zippers at the pockets and ankles. Given the inherent prep appeal of plaid, I'm thinking these pants can be worn to the office one day--and the beach the next. Now that's what I can versatility, which is worth its weight in sequins during these turbulent times.

To answer the question I know you simply must be thinking: no, I will not hold it against you if you want to cop my style and steal this look. Just remember where you heard it first (+1 for me). Oh wait, I saw it in the J. Crew window display (+1 for J. Crew). Looks like it's a wash. Happy shopping!




Images, in order of appearance: (1) Cropped Seaside Madras Zipper Pant $88 by J. Crew (http://www.jcrew.com/); (2) Sequin Drizzle Tank in aluminum $148, also by J. Crew; (3) Straw Panama Hat in natural $58, also by J. Crew.