miss independence day: the 4th in 3 parts

1. My first peach cobbler was a success--yay!  And yum.

2.  My pretty little patriot--in her French stripes.

3.  Nailed it!  My Star-spangled nails, poolside.

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!

Daddy's Day

Today is Father's Day.  Probably like many of you out there who have lost your father, this day is a bittersweet one for me.  On the bitter side, of course, is that I am reminded of how much I miss my beloved Daddy.  But there's more sweet than bitter; I love the opportunity to remember my amazing daddy and, what's more, to celebrate my husband, who is an incredible father.  In honor of two of my favorites, here are some of ways our family is celebrating today:

Cool cards, like this one that we sent to Dallin's dad earlier this week.  I know we live in the age of Skype and Snapchat, but one thing I learned from my father was how to write a real letter.  And nothing beats the perfect card, especially when it is indeed for one very cool pop.

Card by Hearts Grow Fonder
Available on Etsy

"From mail room to board room," as my dad would always say.  Here is the tie that my little H made for her Daddy at church today.  Very chic.  She has also been modeling it for him this afternoon.  I'm not sure who it looks better on.

Old photos.  A daddy/daughter nap, circa 1983, loving every minute of an afternoon snuggle.  My Daddy was a man of few words; he didn't say much unless he really had something to say, so I learned to appreciate moments of silence shared in complete comfort.  Like when we drove across country together to bring my old Volvo out to LA when I was in college; we listened to a LOT of CDs and shared time together I will always treasure.

New photos.  I love that Harper is Daddy's girl; after all, it takes one to know one.  Here is Harper, with Dallin, after a visit to the doctor's and in desperate need of some Daddy love.  It's cool, I totally get it.

Red velvet whoopie pies: my attempt at making Dallin a Father's Day treat.  I say attempt because there are a few things that I learned in the process...  As it turns out, I should read directions before starting a baking project to make sure I have all the ingredients and tools necessary.  For instance, one needs a whoopie pie pan when making whoopie pies.  In the absence of said whoopie pie pan, a muffin tin will work--but maybe not quite as well.  Fortunately, Instagram (what one of my besties calls "the beer goggles of life") makes everything look prettier.  Here's to hoping they taste good too!

Found notes, like this one from my Daddy.  He wrote this to me after he was diagnosed with lung cancer and was going through chemo and radiation.  Despite the physical toll this process was taking on his body, he found the time to sketch out designs with me--cupcakes, ice cream cones, candy...  All the sweet things that inspired my lolly.brand line.  I am grateful to fathers like mine, who inspire their children to dream.  There are so many ways that he lives on.

On Facebook today, there were countless pictures fathers, as well as status updates paying tribute.  I have to admit, it made me a little sad, wistful perhaps, I wasn't celebrating with my own father.  But a while ago, I decided that I would do my best to celebrate my father's life, rather than to mourn his passing.  This day, I have done just that, showing gratitude to the fathers in my life and appreciation for the examples that they are to their children.  I am blessed to know some seriously amazing guys.  And speaking of which, Dallin enjoyed his red velvet whoopie pie, and Harper did too.  Like father, like daughter...  And so it goes.

This Year In Fashion

Dearest fashionista friends, after what I considered a heroic feat of thirty posts in the thirty days of November, I confess I have been totally remiss in sharing my fabulous fashion adventures this past month!  So, with the dawn of a new year upon us, I thought it would be best to finish out 2011 the right way, which means reflecting back on the year's fashions--some new, some old, but all fabulous.  And not to be cute, but it seems appropriate to count down (in no particular order), n'est pas?

Barbour Heritage Collection Ad Campaign

10... Barbour.  Ahh, yes, the iconic British lifestyle brand.  It is also a brand that I grew up with.  My beloved Daddy, the king of cool, even had his own Barbour that he beat up over the years--but it only made it that much cooler and more iconic.  Yet, I've never had a Barbour of my own.  The injustice of it all!  But what I do have is the most amazing husband in the world, and this Christmas he gave me a Barbour of my very own.  Yay for staying warm in fabulously British style this year!

Groove Pant (Tall) in black, $98
by Lululemon

9... Lulu.  Despite some bad press lately, I remain faithful to Lululemon and their amazing collection of yoga and running clothes that can be worn for both exercise and play.  In fact, their apparel is so versatile that I was able to wear my regular old Lulu all the way through my pregnancy, thanks the seemingly magical stretchy properties of their signature luon fabric.  Not to mention that one of my favorite styles, the Groove Pant, is available with a tall inseam.  They don't call it "the Holy Grail of yoga pants" for nothing.

Lollipop, $8 by Essie

8... Lollipop.  This summer, Essie's Lollipop was my go-to nail color.  For a bright, cheerful red, nothing beats it.  While on vacation in the Outer Banks this summer with my husband's family, even my 10 year-old niece remarked on what a perfect shade of red it was.  Of course, she is absolutely a fashionista-in-the-making, but still.  When it's right, it's right.  And on the upside, since it's winter now, I think Lollipop could qualify as a "candy cane red."  I know Christmas has come and gone, but you get what I'm saying.


7... Cupcakes and Cashmere.  I came upon this blog quite by accident earlier this year, while doing a Google image search for the Fairfax Catseye sunglasses by Elizabeth and James that I was so coveting--and what a happy accident indeed.  I have returned regularly to read about Emily's fashion and lifestyle inspirations, which include absolutely gorgeous photos taken by her and her fiancé.  It is now one of my favorite sites when I want to be inspired, or sometimes insanely jealous (this girl has fashion in spades).  To sum it up, I want to be like Emily when I grow up.

Mystic Stone Expandable Wire Bangle
in turquoise with Russian silver, $28 by Alex and Ani

6... Alex and Ani.  I received an Alex and Ani bangle as a birthday gift from my lovely and stylish friend, Sandrine, this summer--and I have been a convert ever since.  Their bangles and other jewelry are designed with the intention of of celebrating each wearer's unique essence.  My silver bangle features a single turquoise bead, which is said to promote peace of mind, as a symbol of generosity, sincerity, and affection.  Harnessing positive energy through clean and simple design is definitely something I will continue to embrace in the new year.


5...   Maxi Skirts.  This year brought the return of maxi skirts were all the rage, which was a true fashion gift for a tall girl like me.  During the summer, I embraced the white, gauzy boho chic look, which brought an elegance and sophistication to my summer wardrobe--while also allowing me to stay cool in spite of a growing baby bump.  Then, with the transition to fall, I was excited to see that the maxi transitioned as well, with heavier knits taking the place of light, bright cottons.  In fact, during the month of October, I basically lived in my striped jersey maxi skirt from Anthroplogie, and I am happy to report that it will continue to serve me well throughout the winter.

Tinted Lipglass in nymphette,  $14.50
by MAC Cosmetics

4... Nymphette.  Now now, don't get the wrong idea.  Another cosmetic hit from MAC, their Nymphette Tinted Lipglass (not to be confused with lipgloss) was definitely one of my new favorite beauty products this year.  Nymphette, which MAC calls a "sunny golden pink," adds a subtle golden glow to your lips that infuses your overall cosmetic look.  Regardless of your coloring, this girly neutral lip color is definitely one that you want to add to your beauty arsenal. 


3... The Brooklyn Flea Market.  This past summer, while visiting my lovely and amazing friend, India, in New York, I had the opportunity to attend the Brooklyn Flea Market.  While I always insist that I am "not a New York person" and "prefer to visit," this artsy outdoor market had me singing a different tune.  From the refreshments (corn on the cob and limeade has never tasted so good) to the artsy antique vendors (we were on a mission to find the perfect steamer trunk), I was reminded of Coco Chanel's sage wisdom: that fashion exists everywhere.  If only I hadn't taken the bus to New York, I would have likely returned home with a lot of fabulous new furniture.  

Women's Premier Single Layer Wide Strap
in dark brown, $48.95
Available from Island Surf

2... Double Rainbow.  Well, only if you count both feet.  They might not be footwear that Rachel Zoe would approve of, but sometimes a fashionista has to give her feet a break--and the zillion pairs of Rainbows I have owned over the year have never, ever let me down (and that counts for something, doesn't it?).  At least for a while, they were more of a West Coast surfer phenomena, but perhaps because their simple and comfortable leather design is so ideal for summer, over time they have made their way across our great nation.  And thank goodness for that.  So, not only are Rainbows a 2011 fashion favorite, but they have been a favorite of mine every year since I started wearing them during my college stint in LA--and I can say with surety that they will find their way onto a 2012 list of favorites too.


1... CHANEL.  Every fashionista has to have that one special item on her "most coveted" list, and the Chanel Grand Shopper is mine.  With its luxe quilted black leather, chain link strap, and Chanel logo, it is the epitome of elegance and class. But, like most items that end up on a "most coveted" list, its price point puts it outside the realm of possibility (for this fashionista at least).  But perhaps that is what makes it so special, that it isn't yet tangible for me, which gives me something to work towards; you know, life, liberty, and the pursuit of Chanel.  And I know that someday I will walk into the Chanel boutique on Newbury Street and leave with this gorgeous handbag, but until then, it remains the best thing that's never been mine.

Chanel
5 Newbury Street in Boston

...HAPPY NEW YEAR!  And so concludes 2011, and with it my countdown of the year in fashion.  Dearest fashionista friends, thanks for all that you've done to encourage She's Come Unheeled throughout this year, and cheers to another year of fabulous fashion adventures.

I Am Thankful For My Fashionista Friends, Episodes 21-26: Things I Love

Dearest fashionista friends, I hope you all had a marvelous Thanksgiving and were able to celebrate all the things in your life that you have to be thankful for!  Over the past 20 posts, I have shared some of the fashion, beauty, and lifestyle inspirations that I am grateful for.  However, nothing compares to the blessing that my husband and I received when we welcomed our little girl, Harper Livingston, one week ago today.  Born at just over 36 weeks, Harper has spent the first week of her life in the NICU at Beth Israel hospital in Boston to gather her strength before she can return home with us.  I am eternally thankful for the precious gift of our sweet baby girl, and for all the people that have supported, encouraged, and lifted us up over the past week.  There is nothing more fashionable than an outpouring of love.


So, while I was able to get a post in after Harper was born last Saturday, I have since neglected my pledge of 30 posts of gratitude throughout the month of November.  I know you understand.  But as my mother says, better late than never--so allow me to share a condensed version of the people and things I have been specifically thankful for (some huge and perhaps obvious, others small and simple) over these last few days...

Le Pavillion iPhone 4 Case
in white/black/pink, $40
by Kate Spade

#21: I am thankful for...my iPhone.  Seriously.  Dallin and I have observed several pay phones throughout the hospital corridors, and I have wondered if I could even figure out how to use a pay phone anymore?  I mean, I certainly don't know how much it costs to make a call these days; the last time I used a pay phone, my age ended in "teen," and the going rate was 35 cents.  Indeed, my iPhone has proved to be worth its weight in gold these days (and as a portfolio analyst, I can safely assure you that gold is all the rage).  It has kept us connected to family and friends, while also serving as a handy camera, an alarm clock, and the source of countless games.  I have to thank my awesome friend and coworker, Joe, who encouraged me to take the iPhone plunge when my beloved Blackberry finally died, for I am truly thankful for this little piece of absolutely crucial technology--in its irresistible Kate Spade polka dot case.


#22: I am thankful for...my fabulous friends and family.  Obvi!  Over these last days, Dallin, Harper, and I have received so much love from the amazing people that we are lucky enough to call family and friends.  From visits with friends bearing emergency cases of ginger ale; to quality time with family and an extremely eager new grandmother; to countless emails and texts; to Thanksgiving treats brought all the way to the hospital, the word "thankful" doesn't actually do justice to how I feel about the loving kindness we have received.  Thank you.

Golden Bronzer, $32
by Trish McEvoy
Available at Nordstrom

#23: I am thankful for...the healing powers of make up.  Truly, I don't mean this in a shallow or superficial way.  When I was discharged from the hospital on Thursday, Dallin and I had to face the incredibly difficult obstacle of returning home--without our baby girl.  I'm not going to say that I handled this situation with poise and grace; rather, I spent most of Wednesday in tears of anticipation.  But on Thursday, as we gathered our things, I decided that I needed to ready myself to face the world--and that falling apart wasn't going to do me (or anyone else) any good.  In an effort to pull it together, I straightened my hair, brushed on some of my favorite Trish McEvoy bronzer, added a little Chanel eyeliner, and brought out the big guns with my waterproof tube of DiorShow mascara. I had to laugh when our nurse remarked on how much "better" I looked that day; clearly, I'm not a natural beauty.  But sometimes just putting in the effort can help, and I am grateful for these cosmetic staples for making me look--if not feel--like a normal human being again.  The rest will hopefully come with the healing powers of time.

Dallin and me on the Outer Banks this past summer

#24: I am thankful for...my amazing husband.  In the five plus years we have been married, Dallin has proved himself time and time again to be the best companion a self-proclaimed fashionista like me could have possibly asked for in life.  He just knows.  When he left the hospital briefly on Monday night to go home and grab some work clothes for the next day, he returned with (among other things) my cashmere socks and the newest issue of Us Weekly.  On Wednesday, when I was on the verge of falling apart, he helped me on a walk outside to get some air and try to clear my head, no matter that I was wearing my Juicy velour PJ pants and Ugg slippers.  These small acts of selflessness--not to mention every time I see him cuddling with or feeding our baby daughter--remind me of how thankful I am to be blessed with Dallin as an eternal companion.  I know Harper will be equally thankful for her daddy.

DTB Duffel in black, $78
by Lulu Lemon

#25: I am thankful for...my Lulu Lemon yoga bag.  Since I was discharged from the hospital, DallinDallin's iPad, and all the normal stuff into my Burberry tote was going to result in broken handbag straps (for the third time).  So we turned to the amazing Lulu Lemon yoga bag that my amazing sister, Annie, and her equally amazing boyfriend, Gil, got me for my birthday in August.  Its size is big enough to fit everything we need for a day at the hospital, and it comes equipped with dozens of handy pockets and zipped compartments to stay organized.  When life gets crazy, sometimes it is the simple things for which you can be thankful.  I may not be toting the bag to and from yoga for a while, but that doesn't mean I can't feel a sense of peace.


#26: I am thankful for...the joy of motherhood.  When we lost our baby boy, Rex Fish, last October, I had never felt such complete and utter devastation and feared that I would never have the opportunity to enjoy the blessing of a living child.  While Harper is currently facing the challenges of being born early, I am thankful for the gift of her life and for the opportunity I have to be a mother.  She is precious, sweet, and even a little bit feisty at times, and I look forward to watching her grow and mature with each passing day--and hope for the day that we can bring her home with us.


Dear fashionista friends, it's hard to believe that we are quickly approaching the end of November, and though my blog pledge (of 30 posts in the spirit of thanks) has been a tall order at times, I am thankful to have had the opportunity to reflect on the people, places, and things that have inspired my gratitude.  While today I have condensed the last six days into one post, believe me when I tell you that I could have written volumes about the love and support my little family has received during that time.  So thank you again to those who have made my burdens light--and to the little fashion tricks that have helped me make it with just a little bit of style too.

Harper Livingston Wilson
Born November 19, 2011
7 pounds 1 ounce

Episode 16: Mad About Plaid

Burberry has been a fixture in my life for as long as I can remember.  As a child, as soon as the cold weather swept through Boston, I can still recall my style savvy grandfather bundling up with a bit of signature plaid around his neck.  Yet, it wasn't until years later that I was able to recognize Burberry's timeless style and wanted some pretty plaid of my own.  I finally scored my own Burberry scarf in my later teenage years, and I have been thankful for Burberry plaid ever since.


Sometimes I feel like no one can do proper or timeless quite like the British, and Burberry is absolutely evidence of this fact.   While I held on to my original Burberry scarf for years, a couple of Christmases ago, my beloved Daddy gifted me a new scarf, and so I traded in my old stand-by for Burberry's Giant Check Cashmere Scarf.  I am absolutely mad for the camel toned nova plaid; I mean, does it get more classic?  Plus, the oversized check pattern of this scarf adds a contemporary spin, and because it's cashmere, it is soft soft soft like you wouldn't believe.


Not only is it a winter staple, but on a more personal note, while I would have forever treasured my scarf anyway, that was my Daddy's last Christmas so my scarf's sentimental value makes it even more important to me.  So not only am I thankful for the gift of plaid and its timeless elegance, but I am grateful for the reminder of my amazing father, his generosity, and--of course- his eye for style.

Giant Check Cashmere Scarf in camel check,
by Burberry

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

Earn Those Xs and Os: 5 Gifts to Get Into Her Heart

News flash: Valentine's Day is just one week away! Okay okay, so maybe it is just a Hallmark holiday, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't seize the opportunity to earn those Xs and Os. Fortunately for you, today's gift guide is your essential road map into her heart--and at five reasonable price points to boot!

For under $25, you may not be able to give her the sun, but at least you can keep the rain away with this Clear Bubble Umbrella from Urban Outfitters. I fell in love with this umbrella style when I was in London last year but couldn't for the life of me find a vendor actually selling them! Fortunately for me (and you), they've made it to the good ol' US of A--this time sporting a cheerfully festive red handle and trim that will remind her of your love even on the rainiest of days. And if you really want to stand under her umbrella? Well then, I dare you to channel Rihanna and serenade her... Price tag: $18

For under $50, give her two hearts instead of one with a pair of festively adorable Glitter Heart MP3 Speakers by Juicy Couture. What girl doesn't love an instant dance party?--and especially one in such cute packaging. These glitter adorned, heart-shaped speakers with Juicy's logo banners fit conveniently into the headphone jack of any MP3 player or computer. And not for nothing, if you're not especially partial to her musical taste (my adorable husband thinks that listening to my iPod is akin to slow torture), this concession is sure to steal her heart. Price tag: $48

For under $75, you can win her over by supporting a good cause, thanks to these customizable Converse Red All Star I "Heart" sneaker. Wearing your heart on your sleeve is so last year. This Valentine's day, let her wear your heart on her shoe, and take pride in the fact that 15% of the net retail sales of these Converse (PRODUCT) RED™ shoes will be paid to The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Starting with a blank canvas in the form of Chuck Taylor All Stars, choose her favorite colors for the shoe's outside body, rubber sidewall, racing stripe, laces, tongue, and stitching. For the finishing touch, melt her heart by filling in the blank: I "heart" ___________. Price tag: $65

For an even $100, you can cook your way into her heart with a set of four Mini-Cocottes by Le Creuset. Show her what you're made of in the kitchen by serving her favorite meal. And since presentation is everything, you're sure to win points with this scaled-down version of Le Creuset's famous cast iron casseroles in a festive red enamel. As an added bonus, this set comes with a special Le Creuset cookbook, featuring 25 unique recipes specifically developed for this cookware. Price tag: $100

For under $150, you can personalize her preppie with this Personalized Foldable Tote from Longchamp. If your love is an Eternal Prepster, she's guaranteed to fall head-over-heels for her very own customized Longchamp. You can opt for a festive deep red tote--or choose from one of Longchamp's other signature colors: black, chocolate, graphite, or navy. Then select one of three monogram styles, along with your desired monogram color (black, green, red, brown, gold, navy, purple, or orange). After all, if your girl is one of a kind, shouldn't her bag be the same? Price tag: $145

So no matter your budget, let your lady love know how you feel with one of these five fabulously festive Valentine's treats! And if you play your cards right, you might earn an X and an O at the end of the night. Happy shopping, lovers!

Images, in order of appearance: (1) Clear Bubble Umbrella in red $18, from Urban Outfitters (http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/); (2) Glitter Heart MP3 Speakers by Juicy Couture $48, available from Neiman Marcus (http://www.neimanmarcus.com/); (3) (Converse) RED All Star I "Heart" $65, available online from Converse (http://www.converse.com/); (4) Mini-Cocottes by Le Creuset, set of 4 in red $100, available at Bloomingdales (www.bloomingdales.com); (5) Personalized Foldable Tote in deep red by Longchamp $145, available at Saks Fifth Avenue (http://www.saksfifthavenue.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).

Jingle All the Way

I find holiday-themed fashion an interesting thing to behold. Some opt for holiday sweaters that might have walked straight off the Bridget Jones set (which would make them "jumpers," no?); others pair snowflake or Santa earrings and necklaces; some go with a broader red and green color theme; and then there's the men around the office with the fun snowmen ties... I suppose I'm far less adventurous with my own personal holiday fashion, preferring a more subtle approach.

My favorite go-to accessory for the Christmas season is the red plaid headband that I "borrowed" from my adorable sister years ago.* While it is far less overt that some of the aforementioned options, I find it no less festive and definitely more versatile. When it really comes down to is my personal refusal to commit to a fashion theme. I see it not as a question of boldness (after all, did you see the animal print dress I so covet?) but more of a desire to think outside the box, if only in an understated way. And it is for this very reason that I find myself inspired to jingle all the way--to Kate Spade.

This year, Kate Spade's holiday look is all about jingle bells. If you're not one for headbands (shame!), then earrings, bobby pins, and/or rings are also fair game. Even without the one horse open sleigh, you'll still look dashing in the snow with these festive holiday accessories, made from 14 karat gold plated metal. I'm especially partial to the bobby pins, as they perform in both the form and function categories. I also love the little jingle bell studs that would bring a bit of holiday cheer to practically any outfit. Alternatively, if you're shopping for others, any of these would make a fun and fabulous gift (they come pre-boxed and basically too cute for words). Talk about ringing in the season!

*I fear that admitting this in writing will result in the forced return of this very headband and one very sad older sister--but such are the risks that I take in the name of fashion.

Images, in order of appearance: (1) Jingle Bell Bobby Pins $45 by Kate Spade, available online (www.katespade.com); (2) Jingle Bell Studs $45, also by Kate Spade.

Brrr, It's (Chin)chilly Outside!

Some people wear their heart on their sleeve. Me? Like other fashionistas I know, I tend to wear my heart on my nails--which means that for various reasons, the past few months have found me solidly in the black nails category. I like to think of it as creative emoting, but that's neither here nor there. However, on a recent trip to the nail salon with my darling Momma, I made my best effort to brighten my mood by making the bold move into...grey. And this is precisely how I became acquainted with Chinchilly.

Yet another fabulous nail color from Essie, Chinchilly is a soft grey infused with an oh-so-subtle hint of purple. The Essie site calls it a "sleek granite grey," but I shy away from the stone analogy because I feel it's actually a lot warmer than that--think Chinchilla coat (sorry, PETA peeps). If you're not quite ready for a festive red on your nails this holiday season, I'm thinking it's a perfect alternative that channels blustery winter days--days when it is, in fact, (chin)chilly outside! The cold never looked so good.

Image: Chinchilly by Essie $8, available online from Essie (www.shopetsy.com).

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).