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  When I originally made my purchase, I was disappointed to learn that this mascara doesn't have the same tubing effect as Trish's other mascaras, which was one of the primary reasons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!

Think Pink (For the Cure)

 

Limited Edition Eddie Ballet Flat in dark pink, $178
by Tory Burch
15% of sales benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation



As you probably already know, October is breast cancer awareness month.  The statistics are staggering; in the US, a woman will die from breast cancer, on average, every 13 minutes.  Clearly, raising awareness of breast cancer and contributing to research programs is incredibly important, and doing so couldn't be easier this month--especially from a fashion standpoint, as there are infinite opportunities out there to shop for a good cause (yay!)--with a distinctly pink theme (double yay!).  And this year, it is Tory Burch's involvement with The Breast Cancer Research Foundation that has my attention.



The Breast Cancer Research Foundation
http://www.bcrfcure.org/

 In honor of breast cancer awareness month, 15% of the sales of Tory's limited edition pink patent Eddie ballet flat will benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, whose mission is: to achieve prevention and a cure for breast cancer in our lifetime by providing critical funding for innovative clinical and translational research at leading medical centers worldwide, and increasing public awareness about good breast health.  Their work is critical, especially when 97% of women diagnosed with localized breast cancer at an early stage survive more than 5 years.

The fact that Tory's Eddie Ballet Flat is pretty much irresistable in the dark pink patent doesn't hurt either, but now you can feel good about this splurge.  When 2,140 new cases of breast cancer in men are expected in the US during this year alone, the time to get involved is now.  Not to steal from the cartoon below, but think of it as a donation to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.  May shopping always feel so good.


The Breast Cancer Research Foundation's Shop Pink 2011 Ad



For more information on breast cancer, or to get involved in the awareness and research initiatives of The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, visit their website: www.bcrfcure.org.

Summer Stripes

Barite Top by Tory Burch, $175

Stripes are one of my favorite summer looks.  I particularly love the nautical feel of a classic navy stripe, which may be why the Barite Top by Tory Burch is calling my name.  The summery short-sleeve, crew neck tee features navy and ivory stripes, but Miss Burch ups the ante by adding rope and stud detailing at the sleeves that I'm absolutely obsessed with.


The Garine Top by Tory Burch, $225
(shown over the Barite Top)

 The Tory Burch website suggests layering the Garine Top over the Barite, and as a girl who loves mixing patterns, I think the result totally works.  The heavier weight of the roping and stripes means that they peek out from beneath the spotted cotton silk for a more bohemian spin on the nautical look.  If (when?) I'm lucky enough to own both pieces, I would pair them with a pair of jeans and some high, high wedges for the perfect summer look. 

Wallets: Out With the Old, In With the New

I distinctly remember my mom buying me a pink Vera Bradley wallet when I was in elementary school and calling it my "training wallet." I wasn't allowed to carry any real money around in it until I proved that I was responsible enough to keep track of its whereabouts (totally normal, right?). I passed the test, and remained loyal to Vera Bradley wallets all the way until this past December.

Zip ID Case in boysenberry by Vera Bradley, $12

In college, my Vera Bradley "wallet" with a key-ring attachment was ideal; it allowed me to keep my room and mailbox key together with my Colby Card, which was prominently displayed in the clear plastic window built into the wallet. Somehow, I also managed to fit all my cash, cards, and change into the small--though often overcrowded--wallet too, which meant I hardly ever needed to carry my handbag with me when I went out. Great system while I was at school, but... not so great once I entered the real world. I realized it was time for a more grown-up look AND a more sophisticated storage system. Plus, carrying a purse meant that I could have my keys in a separate place from my wallet...oh the possibilites!

Nero Intrecciato Nappa by Bottega Veneta, $680

 After exploring my options online, I settled on the continental wallet style. With a zipper to contain everything, and slots to organize all my cards it seemed ideal. I was immediately drawn to Tory Burch's Robinson Zip Continental Wallet, but I continued to search. I then managed to fall in love with an amazing Bottega Veneta wallet, but seeing as how I wouldn't have much money left over to store in the wallet, Bottega and I had to part ways.

Back to Tory. With wallets available in a variety of colors and materials, it seems there must be a style for everybody at Tory Burch, but it was the leather Robinson that truly spoke to me. And seeing as how I wanted to have money left to store in my wallet after making the purchase, Tory Burch's pricetag seemed reasonable. I decided on a simple design: black leather with a gold logo, a classic start to what I hope will ultimately be my extensive wallet collection. And mom would be proud because, so far, I haven't lost it.



Robinson Zip Continental in black leather by Tory Burch, $225






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.

Unleash Your Inner Animal

Everyone who's anyone already knows that Eclipse, the third cinematographic installment in the Twilight saga, came out on DVD this past weekend (can I get an Amen?). So, of course, a Twilight marathon was a MUST for me, and I accordingly subjected my wonderful husband and equally wonderful mother-in-law to countless hours of Team Edward vs. Team Jacob... That said, it may come as no surprise that the whole concept of the "inner animal" has been on my mind, and it is perhaps for this very reason that I now find myself inexplicably obsessed with Tory Burch's leopard print Capys Dress.


What might otherwise be a conservative silk dress with a classic silhouette is anything but-- given its bold leopard print. I actually had the recent opportunity to view (and covet) this dress in person at the Tory Burch store in Las Vegas, and I have to admit that the photo online doesn't do it justice. I found the color to be a more of a muted yet rich caramel color than the almost golden yellow in the photo. Nonetheless, I love the styling of Capys in this photo, with the opaque black tights and black heels; I feel it's crucial to balance a wild animal print (or any sort of wild print) with more understated accessories, and black is ideal for this particular dress. The Tory Burch website touts it as "perfect for holiday cocktails," and whether it's cocktails or mocktails that you're sipping this season, I agree that it's high time to unleash your inner animal.



Image: Capys Dress by Tory Burch $395, available online from Tory Burch (www.toryburch.com).