may the 4th be with you

It's July--what?!  Seriously, how did that happen so quickly?  This week has been amazing though; with the 4th on Thursday this year, I only had to work TWO days this week.  I could really get used to that sort of schedule.  My little family is looking forward to celebrating Independence Day, grilling with friends and enjoying time together as a family.  Here are a few pieces of Americana that have me feeling festive this week:

Movita Beaucoup Peach Cobbler

Peach pie.  We were asked to bring a dessert to our friends' 4th of July BBQ, and like any good domestic goddess wannabe, you know I immediately consulted Pinterest for culinary inspiration.  While the red, white, and blue cakes and fruit confections are absolutely classic, I feel like it doesn't get more all-American than peach cobbler.  Harper, Dallin, and I hit the market earlier this evening to gather our supplies, and now I couldn't be more excited to try this recipe from Movita Beaucoup:

For the filling-

4 cups peeled and sliced fresh peaches (about 8 or 9 peaches)
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 tablespoon flour

For the crust-
1 cup flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3 tablespoons brown sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
2/3 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon brown sugar, for topping
whipped cream or ice cream for serving (optional)

To prepare:

-Preheat the oven to 425

-Combine all dry ingredients for cobbler crust in a bowl, and set aside.
-Generously grease a 1 1/2-quart shallow baking dish. Place the sliced peaches in the dish and sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and flour. Mix gently and spread evenly in the baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes.
-While the peaches are cooking, cut the butter into the awaiting dry crust ingredients with a pastry cutter or your fingers, to make the texture like coarse crumbs. Add the buttermilk and stir to form a soft dough.
-Remove the peach mixture from oven and drop rounded spoonfuls of dough on top. Then sprinkle the top of your cobbler with the remaining tablespoon of brown sugar, and return to oven. Bake until the fruit is bubbly and crust topping is golden brown, about 20 minutes. 

-Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.  Yum!

Girl's Milleraies Striped Tee in gitan/ecume, $22.50
by Petit Bateau

Patriotic stripes.  Harper's Grammy Sue surprised her on Monday with this special tee from Petit Bateau to wear on the 4th, and it has taken all my willpower to wait for the grand debut.  Granted, Petit Bateau isn't exactly classically American, but let's be honest, it doesn't get much cuter or more patriotic than red and white stripes.  Perhaps my favorite detail is the little bow at the neck (the neckline and bow on Harper's tee are white instead of the red shown here).  As a side note, the Petit Bateau store on Newbury Street in Boston is closing at the end of this week.  This means that we have recently purchased some amazing Petit Bateau swag at even more amazing sale prices--but I am absolutely heartbroken to see it go.  Anyway... My vision: this tee, paired with little H's chambray shorts, and her red, white, and blue hair bow...hello, Miss American Pie!

Butler Please, $7.79
by Essie
Available from Target

Starry nails.  I was super bummed to miss viewing The Bachelorette with some of my favorite girlies this week, particularly as our TV night was also a patriotic nail painting party!  Sigh.  Nonetheless, I'm doing my best to nail it on my own this time, thanks to Essie's Butler Please, a nail color recommendation from my fashion icon friend, Aimee, who has it on her toes as I type this.  Called an "indulgent, bright blue," I'm totally loving it.  This blue is peppy, patriotic, and even a little nautical.  After another trip down the Pinterest rabbit hole, I've been inspired to take my nail painting party to the next level and to try this polished version of star spangled, using the reverse color scheme, all blue with one red (not just any red but Essie's Lollipop, another summer fave).  Pictures to follow!

Pinterest inspiration: 4th of July nails

From peach pie to stars and stripes, I'm looking forward to celebrating tomorrow.  I feel like I would be remiss if I didn't express my appreciation for living in the land of the free and the home of the brave--and for those men and women that have made those blessings possible.  Happy 4th of July--and may the 4th be with you!

I Party With Jay Gatsby

Since I first read it during my formative years, F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby has been my favorite book of all time.  I have read and re-read it countless times since, highlighting poignant and meaningful passages, and it seems to only get better with each read.  That, I feel, is the mark of a truly good story.  Of course, I have also seen the 1974 movie adaptation with Robert Redford and Mia Farrow.  And now, as of two Fridays ago, Baz Luhrmann's  version, starring Leonardo DeCaprio and Carey Mulligan, is a contender.  Unfortunately, haven't had the opportunity to see it--yet!  But I will--and I couldn't be more excited to discover how this version stacks up to the absolute perfection that is the story of Nick, Daisy, and Gatsby.  In the meantime, I'm partying with Jay Gatsby from the sidelines...and here are my inspirations:

He smiled understandingly--much more than understandingly.  It was one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in life.  It faced--or seemed to face--the whole external world for an instant, and then concentrated on you with an irresistible prejudice in your favor.  It understood you just so far as you wanted to be understood, believed in you as you would like to believe in yourself and assured you that it had precisely the impression of you that, at your best, you hoped to convey.  Precisely at that point it vanished--


One of the most stunning examples of literature come to life, the iconic Tiffany & Co. created Jazz Age Glamour, a collection of jewelry for the Gatsby film.  As a celebration of the 1920s, featuring amazing diamond necklaces and bracelets, looping strands of pearls, and ornate headpieces, "The collection captures [Fitzgerald's] characters’ privileged lives with modern versions of their Tiffany jewels that glittered through posh parties and summer soirées at grand estates, fueled by jazz and bubbling champagne. "  This dazzling Corsage Necklace (not to mention its price tag) take my breath away.

Corsage Necklace, $485,000
from the Jazz Age Glamour Collection
by Tiffany & Co.

I like large parties.  They're so intimate.  At small parties there isn't any privacy.

I can't take credit for discovering this tank; the lovely Megan shared her fabulous Etsy discovery with me, and I have been obsessing ever since.  While it seemed that no one who came to Gatsby's parties was actually invited, aside from perhaps Nick and Daisy, I wouldn't mind being a Gatsby party-crasher.  The Spring House on Block Island is how I've always pictured Gatsby's house in my mind, but I have a feeling Baz Luhrmann has something a bit more elaborate in mind.  I suppose I'll have to wait and see.  

I Party With Jay Gatsby Tank, $28
by SilksAndScreens
Available on Etsy

"I wouldn't ask too much of her," I ventured.  "You can't repeat the past."

"Can't repeat the past?" he cried incredulously.  "Why of course you can!"

He looked around him wildly, as if the past were lurking here in the shadow of his house, just out of reach of his hand.

This Gatsby clutch is one of a zillion reasons why I love Kate Spade, for keeping geeky English majors like me on trend.  I've had my eye on the Gatsby clutch for some time.  Against the cheerful yellow, I love that the strand of pearls seems to represent the excess of the roaring twenties and the pool of black the dark subtext of the Gatsby tale--and all with an irresistible pinstripe lining that would have been right at home in West Egg.

The Great Gatsby Book Clutch, $265 (on sale)
by Kate Spade

No amount of fire or freshness can challenge what a man will store up in his ghostly heart.

As a teenager reading The Great Gatsby, I was always struck by Gatsby's seeming obsession with the past.  During days when I was beginning to carve my own path, the story of Gatsby and Daisy--and the collateral damage left in their wake--was an almost cautionary tale to me, of lost love, regret, and broken dreams.  All of that, of course, wrapped in a shiny package of lavish parties, amazing clothing, and wealth beyond measure.  To me, this tiny heart ring is a sweet symbol of what should have mattered most for Gatsby and Daisy, of what was ultimately lost.

Wee Heart Ring, $78
from Anthropologie

He must have felt that he had lost the old, warm world, paid a high price for living too long with a single dream.  He must have looked up at an unfamiliar sky through frightening leaves and shivered as he found what a grotesque thing a rose is and how raw the sunlight was upon the scarcely created grass.  A new world, material without being real, where poor ghosts, breathing dreams like air, drifted fortuitously about...

When I spotted this print on Etsy, I was immediately sold.  Representing wealth and recklessness, the image of Gatsby's car is printed, appropriately, in green over an actual page from The Great Gatsby.  For me, Gatsby's "gorgeous car," an object of his material wealth and the source of coveting and admiration in the early Gatsby chapters, becomes sinister in the end--a physical harbinger of death, a vehicle (quite literally) of Gatsby's undoing.  Admittedly, I am a bit obsessed with this story, but I truly love this print for its subtle loveliness and sadness.

Great Gatsby Rolls Royce Print, $9.90
by Story304
Available on Etsy

Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that's no matter--tomorrow we will run faster, stretch our arms farther... And one fine morning-- So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.

Green has long been my favorite color.  I inherited my green eyes from my wonderful mother.  For a little while, while I was growing up, I was slightly covetous of my brother and sister's bright blue eyes--until I learned in science class that green was the most rare...  So, while I may not believe in the green light the way Gatsby did, I absolutely appreciate the symbolism of green in the story, as well as its glorious physical manifestations in the wide world of fashion, like this absolutely stunning trench from Burberry Prorsum.  I mean, a green lace Burberry trench: need I say more, old sport?

Kickback Lace Trench Coat in kelly green, $5,500
by  Burberry Prorsum

I've spoken several who have seen Baz Luhrmann's Gatsby so far, and people either love it or hate it.  I sincerely hope that I am in the former camp, a failed movie adaptation is perhaps one of the biggest disappointments ever.  For me, I've never had issue with artist liberty and interpretation, provided that the integrity of the story and its themes remains.  I suppose I'm just going to have to see for myself and report back! 

Psst... For more information about Tiffany & Co.'s Jazz Age Glamour collection, click here.

Skirting the Issue

I am totally obsessed with maxi skirts right now.  I know it's not a new trend by any means, but as my life has become more chaotic, I have found myself gravitating towards more effortless styles.  Translation: in a maxi skirt, I can bend over to pick up Harper--or the pile of goldfish crackers she has dumped out onto the floor--without a care in the world.  Yet, in addition to being completely easy and versatile, I feel that the maxi skirt has an inherent elegance that the more popular minis or even midis simply lack.  Here are a few of the maxis that I needwanthavetohave right now:

Shannon Floral Maxi Skirt
by Alice + Olivia
Available at Neiman Marcus

Unfortunately for me, I can't afford my taste--or the Shannon Floral Maxi Skirt by Alice + Olivia that I have been coveting since I first laid eyes on it a month or so ago.  The subtle floral print reminds me of a watercolor painting, and the pale yellows and greens are the perfect colors for spring and summer and can be easily matched.  I can't even explain how much I need this skirt.  So I am willing to patiently wait for a sale, or for someone with buyer's remorse to put one on Ebay in my size...  Whichever comes first!  Fingers crossed.

Canyon Skirt by Lilly Pulitzer

I wasn't sure how I felt about the high-low hem at first, but I've given it some thought and really think it works.  As a girl who loves shoes, it's a plus to be able to show off your footwear with a long-skirted look.  Plus, it maintains the easy elegance of a classic maxi, with a bit of a fun twist.  The Canyon Skirt by Lilly Pulitzer is my favorite high-low skirt to date, with its punchy, preppy pattern that's made in soft, beachy jersey.  I think flip-flops are a must here.

FP One Patchwork Maxi
by Free People

I love the bohemian vibe of this Patchwork Maxi from Free People.  The cool blues and aquas remind of the ocean, and the contrasting patterns and textures all work together.  Plus, each section has a raw, frayed edge that gives the skirt a casual, almost vintage feel.  If only I had tickets to Coachella this year. 

Clearly, I have my shopping list made!

Cozying Up

For those of you living under a rock (or not in the great state of Massachusetts), today's Boston weather forecast is for a blizzard that will go down in history.  On the modest side, Boston will see 18 inches of snow...  Worst case scenario is two feet or more, with hurricane winds.  The snow started falling around 10:00 this morning, and all the milk was gone when Dallin, Harper, and I went to the supermarket for a few last minute groceries (including milk).  But perhaps the worst evidence of snowstorm mania was when we went to the neighborhood bakery for donuts, and they were GONE--as in, no donuts whatsoever.   Despite the sad lack of maple frosted donuts in my life, I'm actually enjoying this cozy day indoors with hot chocolate (we managed to find a gallon of organic whole milk hiding amongst the soy milk--sweet relief!), and my sweet little pre-toddler tearing things up.  Cozy clothes are, of course, a necessity for this type of situation, which has got me thinking...  

I've been considering my off-duty wardrobe a lot lately.  As I explained to my husband just the other day, when it comes to the workplace, I have pencil skirts and cute flats in spades, but I am at a total loss when it comes time for lounging at home or even running a quick errand.  Maybe it is anxiety over my impending 30th, or perhaps I'm just bored, but lately I have been wondering if I'm getting too old for college hoodies, tall Uggs, and shapeless sweats?  Don't get me wrong, these are things that I love, but I feel like it might be nice to add some more grown-up coziness into the mix.

So, here are some of the things I would like to cozy up in today as we watch the snow fall outside:

Dreamy Cotton Pant
in stripe vintage champagne, $49.50
by J. Crew

Along with brown hair and green eyes, I have inherited a love of patterns from my mother.  And when it comes to lounge wear, I feel a pattern is far more interesting than your standard grey. I'm especially partial to stripes.  At my former job, a coworker once made fun of me for wearing horizontal stripes; I was pregnant at the time, and I think he meant to suggest that stripes weren't exactly flattering (not that I'm holding a grudge).  Personally, I find stripes lengthening, and I especially like to the Parisian vibe of this "vintage champagne" stripe.  As an added bonus for tall girls like me, J. Crew's Dreamy Cotton Pant is also available in a tall inseam: yay for 35 inches!

Levanoa Encase Tee
in heather grey, $66.50 by Theory

  
I know, it seems a little ridiculous to suggest Theory when it comes to tee-shirts, but I fell in love with Theory tees after scooping up a few at the Theory outlet in Vermont a couple of years ago...and I've never looked back.  The ultra soft feel and figure-flattering fit are unparalleled.  I don't have this particular tee, but I'd like to.  The longer fit and ruched sides do wonders for a silhouette.  I like the heather grey too since, if you're coughing up this much cash for a basic tee (this is the sale price), you should be able to wear it with everything.

Modern Relaxed Velour Hoodie
in Tell Tale, $108 by Juicy Couture

I was so excited to see that Juicy has reinvented their classic track hoodie with a boxier cut and oversized hood.  Finally, a hood that might actually fit on my head!  I mean, do these teeny tiny hoods actually fit someone out there?  They make me feel like a freak of nature.  I also love the broken-in look of this slightly-lighter-than-navy blue. Cozy cozy that works all year round?  Yes, please!

Ansley Slipper in chestnut, $99.95
by UGG Australia

I love my classic tall Uggs, but lately I've been coveting these slippers.  There is something more understated about the moccasin look, but they still pack all that amazing shearling coziness.  I hope you don't take my earlier statement to mean that I'm abandoning the tall style; rather, I'm actually wearing them as I type these very words, but a girl needs options.  And preferably shearling-lined options at that.  

Mathilde Knit Hat in cream, $49.95
from Anthropologie

Okay, I feel warm and cozy just looking at this hat.  There's something about this creamy ivory color that always makes me think of winter in a dreamy and nostalgic sort of way.  The oversized pompom and extra long ties that are youthful, fun, and apres-ski chic all in one.  Yes, I do wear hats inside.  Never sunglasses though (that is one of my number one pet peeves--and a fashion faux pas to boot).

Thigh Hi Loveland Legwarmer in navy, $38
by Free People

I know what you're thinking--legwarmers are so eighties--but I would argue that, when worn just right, they can be comfy, cozy, and even a bit fashionable.  What makes this pair special is that they are graphically bold, but the red, navy, and grey color scheme is actually pretty versatile.  Worn with leggings or my favorite Lulu Wonder Unders and the aforementioned classic tall Uggs, I'm thinking they might just help me get through a blizzard.

And speaking of blizzards, our governor just declared a state of emergency, stating that no cars should be on the road after 4:00, or drivers run the risk--in addition to being careless and putting themselves and any passengers in danger--of a hefty fine.  Looks like things are getting serious around here.  And apparently, so is my off-duty wardrobe.  Bundle up and stay safe, fashionista friends!  

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...  

Good Things Come In Small Packages: DvF for babyGap

Diane von Furstenberg and babyGap Exclusive Collection

Since Harper was born almost four (!!) months ago, I've been in a baby time warp, which is why I have once again neglected my poor Unheeled for much, much too long.  But the silver lining--in addition to my adorable baby, obvi--is that I have become well versed in the ways of baby fashion!  So you can imagine how excited I was to receive an email from babyGap a couple of weeks ago announcing a limited edition collection from Diane von Furstenberg exclusively for babyGap.  

DvF babyGap Floppy Sunhat, $20

The collection has since been released, just this past Thursday actually, and as I was already up at the crack of dawn feeding the baby, I took the opportunity to multi-task and signed on to the babyGap website from my iPhone first thing.  I couldn't help but marvel at the way the iconic DvF wrap dress was translated into fun, youthful apparel and accessories for the itty bittiest of Gap wearers, from wild leggings featuring bold prints, to graphic onesies, and the most most irresistible baby wrap rompers.  It took every ounce of willpower to not snatch up every DvF item in Harper's size, but baby girl already has a bigger wardrobe than I do.  Instead, I took a more practical approach (impressed?) by filling an accessory gap in her upcoming spring and summer wardrobe with a floppy sunhat--perfect for lounging poolside, of course.  Being the self-proclaimed fashionista that I am, it is only natural that Harper gets to know the wonders of DvF as soon as possible.  And it's true what they say; good things really do come in small packages!

Diane von Furstenberg and Baby Gap Exclusive Collection

Psst...  Word on the street (well, maybe just the Gap website) is that the DvF for babyGap collection is almost sold out so you'd better get shopping--after all, you don't want your itty bitty fashion star to miss out!

I Am Thankful For My Fashionista Friends Episode 30: Be Inspired

Image thanks to Daily Candy

As you know, I dedicated She's Come Unheeled posts during the month of November to the spirit of thanksgiving and the people, places, and things that have inspired my gratitude--not to mention my fashion sensibilities.  With all that's happened in my life lately, this 30-day pledge has been a challenge at times, but I feel fortunate to have had the specific opportunity to reflect on what I'm thankful for--and it's hard to believe that it's already the 30th!  Given that today is the last official post (which is not to say that I won't share my gratitude in the future), it feels appropriate to give thanks for fashion in general, especially the DOs and DON'Ts that keep a self-proclaimed fashionista on her toes.


Yesterday, while my baby slept, I left the NICU to grab some lunch.  Feeling lethargic as I trudged back to the hospital, a fellow pedestrian caught my eye: a man carrying a briefcase and wearing work pants and oxfords, paired with a purple hoodie and sleeveless denim vest.  Unfortunately, I only saw this ensemble from the back and regret that I didn't think to stealthily snap a photo with my iPhone, but still I had to laugh--and I needed to laugh.  It didn't take a fashionista to recognize what was amiss with that outfit: everything.  Yet, I am thankful for fashion DON'Ts like this one to add a little comic relief to my day and to serve as a reminder of, while beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, there are some fashion rules that should not be broken.  


Just as fashion DON'Ts crop up in the most unexpected places, fashion DOs can appear just as randomly.  Today, while walking to the elevator (again to grab some lunch--I sense a pattern here), I passed a fellow NICU mom in the hallway, looking like the portrait of chic in the hospital corridor.  Her outfit was simple but elegant: black leggings, a white tunic-length tee with a cozy sweater and...nude patent leather flats.  Now, I've already professed my love for my nude pumps, but I never even considered nude flats.  They have the same versatility as nude pumps, yet by nature of being a flat, they are inherently more casual.  Still, they add a level of style and grace that is to be coveted.  Simply put: I need to get a pair of my own, and I am thankful for the fact that fashion inspiration can strike at any time, in any place.

Odette Flats in nude patent, $150
by Michael Kors
Available from Bloomingdales

As Coco Chanel once said, Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.  In the past month, as I have kept myself especially open to inspiration, I have found this to be more true than ever before.  Whether it's a DO or DON'T, a hot trend or a classic, fashion is absolutely everywhere--and I am thankful to be able to soak in it, to experiment with new ideas, and to be inspired by the fashion of others.  And on that note, dearest fashionista friends, I am thankful for each of you and your unceasing fashion savvy.  November will soon be over, but I'm already looking forward to holiday fashion...  Just saying!

Episode 29: Because Momma Knows

Just a couple of days ago, I shared my gratitude for comfy dress up: J. Crew's Saturday Pants.  After finishing up my post, I had every intention of ordering them too, but then it was time to feed baby Harper--and so the pants remained in my online shopping cart, patiently waiting to be purchased.  Then this morning, with loads of laundry still undone, I wished I had ordered them  and added overnight shipping (sigh).  But all is never lost.  Today I am thankful, once again, to my mother, who just knew--and showed up at my house at 7:00 AM with more gifts for baby...and a pair of Saturday Pants for me.


Now that I actually own these pants, I can say with absolute certainty that they are the greatest gift to comfy chic ever.  They have the form of leggings, but the jaspé cotton is thick enough to push them solidly into the "pants" category.  I'm wearing mine today with Uggs, a long tunic, and my favorite Lulu Lemon hoodie, and I couldn't be more comfortable if I tried.  My mother selected the "heather midnight" (black, with a subtle heather effect), and it's perfect for a girl like me who generally prefers black.  But these pants are actually SO fabulous that I want a pair in every color.  Maybe Santa will take the hint, but in the meantime, a million thanks to my mother and her mother's intuition.

Saturday Pants in heather midnight, on sale for $49.50
by J. Crew

Episode 19: In the Trench

I am absolutely in love with my trench coat.  In fact, it was one of the highlights of my 25th birthday.  As a long time Burberry addict, the classic trench had been on my wish list for basically all 25 years leading up to this pivotal, quarter-century birthday.  Still, I couldn't have been more surprised--or thankful--when my family brought in the most enormous Burberry shopping bag I had ever seen, containing this iconic fashion staple.  


A few years later, I remain thankful for such a generous, indulgent, and amazing gift.  In many ways, my Burberry trench is like armor; somehow, it always makes me feel put together and presentable.  So today--and everyday--I am thankful to beloved family for always spoiling me and for the timeless elegance of a trench that helps me brave even the dreariest of days in style.

Can you tell how happy I am?!

Episode 12: Boston Fashion

Boston
Photo from Rishi Raj Photography

Today I had the opportunity to spend the afternoon on Newbury Street with my sister, Annie, getting a head start on our holiday shopping.  In addition to our favorite spots, we took the opportunity to pop into stores that we had never been to before, sometimes with our own wardrobes in mind and other times in search of a Christmas gift or two.  It was such an amazing day that I was reminded of how much I love my home city of Boston--and how thankful I am to have been able to enjoy it in such good company.


Boston may not be known as a landmark on the fashion scene, yet I am constantly inspired by the people who surround me, even the people I see on the street.  Today, Annie and I saw both fashion dos and don'ts.  Perhaps my favorite "do" was a casual fall layered look, a girl wearing army green leg warmers over her black leggings and tucked into her brown boots.  While her look wasn't anything earth shattering, the comfortable ease of the layers struck me as a fun way to incorporate color and texture in an everyday outfit.


On the other hand, the most notable "don't" was a girl wearing a faux fur jacket that redefined the word "oversized," dwarfing her tiny frame so much that she looked as though was drowning.  I believe she was probably channeling that bohemian Mary Kate Olsen vibe, but the thing about that is that you actually have to be Mary Kate Olsen to make it work (and even she ends up on the "Fashion Police" page of US Weekly sometimes).


As and aside, amongst the dos and don't, this was indeed a triumphant day; my lovely, flat-shoes-only sister purchased her very first pair of heels--or wedges, to be more exact.  Her new Tory Burch wedges fall solidly into the "do" category, and as a lover of the highest high heels, I was proud to be a part of the buying experience--and thankful to have had the opportunity to spend the prettiest fall day with my sister in our favorite (and ever fashionable) city.

My sister rises to new heights!

Sophie Wedges

by Tory Burch

Episode 6: Jeans For Dress-Up

When I was growing up, there was a distinct separation between casual clothes and dress-up clothes.  Dress-up clothes were for church, parties, airplanes (remember those days?), and weddings or funerals, whereas casual clothes were for pretty much all other occasions.  This separation was just as important as cardinal fashion rules like wearing a slip under a skirt or no white after labor day.  In fact, even into my angsty teenage years, I pretty much subscribed to this wardrobe dichotomy.  It wasn't until I moved to LA for college that my staunch New England fashion preconceptions loosened a bit, and I discovered there was an entire style spectrum in between casual and dress-up.  During my four year stint in the City of Angels, I learned a lot about fashion--not to mention, life in general--but perhaps the most important fashion message was that you can (and should) wear jeans for dress-up, and it is for this revelation that I will be eternally thankful to my one-time home of LA.

Some ponder important life questions like: what came first, the chicken or the egg?  As for me, I wonder whether jeans for dress-up inspired the designer denim fad (a trend that is happily alive and well today) or if the designer denim fad made it okay to wear denim to dinner and a movie?  Regardless, I learned about both during my undergraduate years, and my wardrobe has never been the same.  I hoard designer denim like, well, a hoarder--and there have even been times when my husband has had to set some harsh limits for me, like no more jeans until I get rid of some that I already have (sigh).  But I digress... 

The beauty of jeans for dress-up is that they are as stylish as they are comfortable, and when I'm wearing my favorite denim, I never feel more like myself--which is precisely how any girl wants to feel, regardless of the occasion.  Interestingly enough, denim has a spectrum in and of itself.  That is to say, there are some pairs of jeans that I reserve for casual wear and others that are more appropriate for going out.  The difference between the two, of course, is further reinforced by footwear choice: Uggs or heeled leather boots, Converse or Louboutins, flip flops or flats, and so on.

But don't get me wrong.  Now that I'm all grown up, I love playing dress-up just as much--if not more--than I did when I was a little girl.  But with the exception of church, the really fancy occasions are few and far between, and the occasions that call for just a little something special are far more frequent.  And this is how I rationalize all the jeans that I already own--and all that I still want to buy...  So thank you, LA LA Land, for teaching me about casual couture and the absolute necessity of jeans for dress-up.  My fashion sensibilities will be forever indebted.


High Waisted Skinny Jean in "adore me" wash, $125
By J. Crew



Everyday Equestrian

In my adolescence, I spent a good deal of time riding horses--and I have to confess that my favorite part about it was undoubtedly the wardrobe.  I find the whole look--riding boots, jodhpurs, and all--to be so elegant and timeless.  It has been years since I've been on horseback, but my feelings about the equestrian look haven't changed a bit.  However, riding boots are really the only component of equestrian fashion that I've managed to embrace in my normal life to date.  This is all about to change--thanks to my favorite denim company, J Brand.


Of course, J Brand does much more than simply denim; in fact, just last month, I raved about their new fall collection, which includes amazing corduroy styles in rich jewel tones.  Well, J Brand has done it again...  Allow me to introduce you to the J Brand jodhpur.

J Brand Jodhpur Ad

  
Inspired by the classic riding pants that I wore so fondly in childhood, J Brand's new jodhpur is made from Japanese luxe twill with a flattering skinny cut.  Perhaps my favorite detail is the exposed zipper on the outside of the ankles, which brings a modern twist to this traditional style.  The jodhpur is available in five different fall hues: sharkskin, a stormy grey; vintage stallion, a rich brown; wine, a deep burgundy; congo, a dark army green; and a traditional black.  

Jodhpur in congo
by J Brand, $227

It's difficult for me to pick a favorite color, but I'm leaning towards congo; I feel like that shade of army green can really enhance the fall color palette, whether it's matched with subtle neutrals or more brilliant shades like red
 and orange.  But regardless of your color selection, the jodhpur's versatility speaks volumes.  For a more formal look, they can be paired with high heels and a blazer.  Alternatively, to keep things casual, they could just as easily be worn more with boots or flats and a cozy sweater.  However, even if you're opting for casual, their inherent elegance and timelessness makes the jodhpur a wardrobe staple.


My crystal ball tells me that we will be seeing a lot of jodhpurs in the upcoming season, and I'm totally on board with this trend.  So this fall, bring the equestrian to the everyday.  Your closet will thank you. 

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!

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. 

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Today is Earth Day, and while I'm tempted to tout all the eco-friendly beauty products I've been reading about this week (it seems all the fashion blogs have gone green this week), my Earth Day fashion message is a simple one: reduce, reuse, recycle. If you grew up in a public school system like mine, then you probably learned about the "three Rs" in second grade, but who knew there was a fashion lesson therein? Indeed, one of the most eco-friendly moves you can make is to enjoy AND share fashion that's already right there.

Truly, there is nothing greener that reducing your carbon footprint by indulging in pre-existing clothing and accessories (think: vintage, consignment shops, Ebay!). Not only is it the "green" thing to do, but the pre-owned route can save you a pretty penny. In fact, in celebration of Earth Day, my favorite consignment chain, Second Time Around, is having a special sale this weekend. Between now and Sunday, you can save 20% on all new arrivals--and if you're not familiar with Second Time Around's process, anything that isn't a "new arrival" is marked down even more, depending on how long it's been in the store. Yay savings!

Yet, even more important than indulging ourselves is the fact that we can reduce waste by recycling our cast-offs. Now, I'm entirely sure that I'm preaching to the choir on this one, but that sweater that looked so great in the catalogue but is still hanging in the back of your closet a year later (ring a bell?) could go a long ways towards helping someone. If you're not yet familiar with Dress For Success, it's an amazing organization whose mission is to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. We all know what a tough economy it is out there and just how important it is to make a powerful first impression. Now you can help a woman land that job and start a new career by donating a suit or other business-appropriate clothing.

These are just a few ideas on how to make your Earth Day--and all your days--happier and perhaps more meaningful. But as an added bonus, now they can be more stylish too! Happy Earth Day, dearest fashionista friends.

Psst... To learn more about Dress For Success and how you can help, visit their website by clicking here.

Image: Yes, that's me, sitting in an absolutely enormous Burberry bag. And yes, I'm trying to be metaphorical or something. ;)

Pants That Pop!

Warning: this post is not for the faint of heart--or at the very least, if you're afraid of color, consider yourself warned. In past posts, I've raved about the glories of color, suggesting a little pop(!) of color for your nails or perhaps your shoes. But today is different; today we're going all out with pants that really pop!

Isn't color exactly what you need on this snowy APRIL day? J Brand to the rescue. Their new line of Haute Hues is where bold color meets go-to classic. Made of Japanese luxe twill and fitted from hip to ankle with a slightly higher-rise, the 811 Mid-Rise Skinny Leg is available in pretty much every color of the rainbow. My favorites have to be the "brights"--bright red, bright royal, bright yellow, and bright fuchsia. I mean, go bold or go home. However, if you're a more delicate flower who prefers pastels for spring, you can always opt for far less hue with the "pales"--pale pink, pale yellow, and pale blue. Now you can have your color--and wear it too!

Images, in order of appearance: (1) J Brand ad campaign, featuring their 811 Mid-Rise Skinny Leg jeans in bright red; (2) J Brand ad campaign, featuring their 811 Mid-Rise Skinny Leg jeans in bright blue, bright fuchsia, bright yellow, and bright red; (3) 811 Mid-Rise Skinny Leg jeans in pale yellow, $176 by J Brand, available online (http://www.jbrand.com/).