Bling!

With the holidays rapidly approaching, I thought it would be wise to start blogging about items that you could...

a. potentially give as gifts

b. put on your wish list

c. drool over, as per usual.

Since all of you trend setting ladies have lots of celebrating planned for the future months, add some bling to your wardrobe with a great statement ring. Stand out in the crowd and adorn your hand with something fabulous. Make a statement with some ring bling! 'Tis the season for a reason to spend your hard earned cash on yourself or someone bling-worthy. I've compiled 12 rings that I think are perfect gifts as much as they are perfect little somethings to make your outfit that much more put together. Oh, and all of them are under $100. Even better! So this upcoming holiday season, eat, drink and be merry. But before you head out the door, make like Beyoncé and put a ring on it. 

All of the rings featured on today's post can be found at Piperlime, who offers free shipping (no minimum) for the holidays!

Marc by Marc Jacobs - Snow Bunting Ring - $98.00

House of Harlow 1960 - Tigers Eye Coctail Ring - $50.00

Kenneth Cole New York - Pearl Multi Row - $28.00

Hive and Honey - Pink Ring - $22.00

Lucky Brand - Feather Ring - $25.00

Marc by Marc Jacobs - Wise Owl Ring - $98.00

Kenneth Cole New York - 3 Stone Ring - $35.00

Hive and Honey - Antique Button Ring - $25.00

Kate Spade - Cluster Ring - $95.00

Lucky Brand - Koi Fish Ring - $35.00

Marc by Marc Jacobs - Annabella Ring - $58.00

Lucky Brand - Snake Ring - $45.00

Copy Cat: The Birkin

Ok, I'm back from holiday recess. After eating too much and foregoing my usual routines (i.e. blogging), I am officially back on the web in full force. Today's edition is a very special "copy cat". Ever heard of the Hermes Birkin bag? It's THE BAG of all bags- a holy thing of beauty sent from the heavens above. Or France. Both are similar in my book. Anyway, a Birkin bag costs upwards of $20,000. That's right. For just one. And, there's a waiting list. (And you thought the economy was in trouble, right?)

For 99% of the population that can't afford a Birkin, Marc Jacobs is giving trendsetters everywhere a light at the end of the tunnel this holiday season. A piece of his Marc by Marc Jacobs line, the 'Ozzie Square Lucy' Faux Leather Tote is a beautiful alternative for $398.00. What a stunner!! I saw it in person this past weekend and I'm in love. I'm betting that it's going to sell quickly so if you need this bag as much as I do, act now. After all, it is "Cyber Monday". 

Available at Nordstrom.com: MARC BY MARC JACOBS 'Ozzie Square Lucy' Faux Leather Tote (in 3 colors) -

*I LOVE the red!!!

Google Births A Fashionista: Boutiques.com

In keeping with this week's most recent posts on emerging and equally as fabulous online fashion sites, today I'm going to educate on Boutiques.com. Have you heard of it? It's, quite possibly, the next "it" thing. A brainchild of Google, Boutiques.com is described as such: 

"Boutiques.com is a personalized shopping experience, brought to you by Google, that lets you find and discover     fashion goods through a collection of boutiques curated by taste-makers -- celebrities, stylists, designers, and fashion bloggers. Boutiques uses visual technology to help fashionistas discover and shop their look and creates the opportunity for designers to showcase their collections and latest inspirations online. Boutiques.com is built on technology developed by our team of fashion experts who work with engineers to “teach” our computer systems to understand various patterns, pairings, and genre definitions. When signed into your account, Boutiques.com learns about your style and preferences and in turn, provides you better results and recommendations over time. Ultimately, Boutiques.com will provide shoppers with a much richer and interactive shopping experience and help drive traffic to retailers' websites."

What I like best is that Boutiques.com complies must-have items from fashion designers, best dressed celebrities, fashion bloggers, and specialty retailers. Yes- most of the items are top-of-the-line designer fashions (aka super pricey). However... don't let all those zeros discourage you! This site  should serve as inspiration! Plus, if a new statement piece is in your future, I would recommend browsing on here since the people featured on Boutiques basically eat,sleep,breathe fashion. I hope you will enjoy browsing the boutiques as much as I do! 

PS- Rumor has it that more celebs, designers, and bloggers are on the verge of becoming a Boutiques member... including the likes of SJP and the Olsen gals.

One Stop Shop.

Picture this: A website where you can hand pick the brands that you like, the sizes you most often purchase in, your price range, and whichever items you covet all in one spot. I know I know, this sounds like some sort of sick joke. Well, thanks to the wonderful and ever-expanding world of online shopping, I am pleased to tell you that this  is no fallacy. It's called Shop It To Me and, I must admit, it's nothing short of awesome. 


The whole concept of a site that complies every brand you love, in the size you prefer, and by your favorite designers is a genius platform! It basically works like this: you sign up to be a member, once you're in you fill out a checklist of all the designers you like, you tell the site which sizes you prefer, and what types of items you are looking for, then Shop It To Me e-mails you however often you prefer on sales happening online based on your preferences. But here's the kicker: it brings together all types of different websites that feature your desired items on sale... in one place. This is a really innovative concept that is sure to benefit you in more ways than one- no more searching from site to site for the best sale items, only to find out that your size is no longer in stock. (Sound familiar?) Shop It To Me does all the work for you. I seriously recommend that you apply for membership. Happy bargain hunting!


*A special "thank you" to one of my lovely friends, Danielle, who educated me on this new (and soon-to-be one of my new obsessions) online destination. 

The Ultimate Closet.

Take second to think about this concept: the ultimate closet. What does this mean to you? What would you put in your ultimate closet to build a seemingly "perfect" wardrobe? Off the top of my head, I can think of about 15 things that I would add (no budget restrictions, of course). What a nice thought for Monday morning, however unrealistic it is- unrealistic in the concept of a limitless shopping spree but TOTALLY REALISTIC in the thought that- yes!- you can refine your closet and turn it into a mecca for fabulous ensembles. Imagine that!


Although the concept of an ultimate concept may seem a bit farfetched at first, it is not impossible. Building an ultimate closet requires two key concepts- a few great statement pieces mixed with wardrobe staples, like basics. This means that basics like: a great fitting pair of jeans, a cozy but well-fitting sweater, a few great t-shirts, a fitted blouse, something with a little bit of bling (think embellishments), a dress that can be worn day or night, and- most importantly- something that makes you feel like a million bucks. This is a great start for the staples. What constitutes a wardrobe staple, you ask? Some things to keep in mind are items that can be worn dressed up or dressed down, day to night, wash well and are tailored to fit your body type. Statement pieces are those that you don't wear as often but cannot live without- this is usually a great bag, a beautiful jacket (trench coat, elegant wool coat, etc.), a fur vest, anything sequin and to-die-for accessories. 


A great example of an ultimate closet is best done in shopbop.com's "Ultimate Closet" Lookbook. Follow this link to get a better feel for what I'm talking about: http://www.shopbop.com/ci/3/lb/ultimatecloset/ultimatecloset_0.html. I think that this concept is really important because it's the starting point for building a closet that you love, which leads to wearing outfits that you love, which in turn makes you feel amazing. Oh what a feeling!

Shorts: Not Just For Summer.

It's true: shorts are no longer just for summer (and spring and, well, in the beginning months of fall, too). Lately I've been seeing tons of shorts- from the runways to fashion magazines and websites. The trick to making shorts in the fall/winter look good (and not ludicrous) is by using new fabrics and layering techniques. What does this mean, you ask? Read on. 


The first way that shorts can be incorporated into a fall/winter wardrobe is by using an "untraditional" fabric. Sweater materials like wool work best. Some type of chunky sweater fabric, for instance, is perfect- not only because the feel of a chunky sweater is so obviously winter, but it adds for extra warmth. Also, other untraditional fabrics like shimmery hints of metallics or even full-on sequins is what helps translate this look into the colder months. For example, a pair of dressier sequin shorts can be paired with simple tights underneath, a clean tee and a chic blazer. Voilà!! A look thats complete, trendy and über European. If you're only option is denim shorts, have no fear- making them work into the fall/winter is actually much easier than you may think. Pair jean shorts (a darker wash, preferably) with clean black tights underneath. On top I love a fitted blazer or sweater. Some great booties or OTK (over-the-knee) boots can take this look to a whole new level. I've included a picture of model Taryn Davidson- the ensemble that is put together is this editorial picture is so effortless and undeniably chic.

Trendy Polish.

So today, I'm channeling my inner girly-girl because today I'll be talking all about nail polish. I'm a sucker for a nicely manicured nail, especially those with great colors. I love red nails and deep shades like purple- I can pull those off... or at least I like to think so. A good friend of mine can get away with green, taupe, gray, pink... you a name it, she can make it work. Me... not so much. I stick to burgundies in the winter and reds in the summer. And that's all. But enough about myself. Let's talk more nails. OPI is, by far, my ultimate choice in polish. I know it can be on the more pricey side when it comes to nail polishes. But seriously, who has the time to paint their nails every other day just to sacrifice a few dollars. Sorry, but my time (and un-chipped nails) are more important. 


Today I bought a new OPI polish at the store- it's called "Fun From A to Z-urich" from the company's recent Swiss collection. And let me tell you... It's beautiful! So I've gathered the complete collection for you so you can get a sneak peak on the season's hottest shades. Buying just one is going to be a tough feat, so best of luck!
PS- Check out the OPI site if you're undecided on what color is best for you. You can virtually "try on" any color you chose! 

Colors shown above from left to right:
"Color So Hot It Berns"
"Just a Little Rosti at This"
"From A to Z-urich"
"Glizerland"
"I'm Suzi & I'm a Chocoholic"
"Diva of Geneva"

Colors shown above from left to right:
"Colors to Watch"
"Lucerne-tainly Look Marvelous"
"Yodel Me On My Cell"
"Ski Teal We Drop"
"Cuckoo For This Color"
"William Tell Me About This Color"

Sneak Peak! - J.Crew Spring 2011

What a better way to beat the Monday morning blues than with J.Crew? As of right now, I can't think of anything better. Read on, ladies. At the end of last week, the J.Crew spring 2011 ladies lookbook was leaked. Nothing short of greatness, the spring collection featured classic J.Crew ensembles- great layers, a mix of masculine and feminine combined, and a fresh style perspective on how to bring in the spring. I, myself, am a HUGE fan of J.Crew for many reasons. I think the quality of their pieces are top-notch. Plus, I love how they're always mixing, matching, and layering pieces that you wouldn't think to put together- until, of course, you see them in the J.Crew catalogue and you have an epiphany: "I want that, I need that, and-wait-I can look like that, too!"

One of my favorite blogs, Fashionista, has provided us with just under 30 looks from the J.Crew spring collection. The looks are adorable, totally chic and completely attainable. I'd say it's a great way to start the week! See the complete collection by following this link.

Cheek This Week: Shearling

TGIF! For today's weekly edition of "Chic This Week" I decided to do something a little different. Instead of giving you a great outfit with components that you can mix and match, I'm going to magnify a trend that I keep seeing over and over again everywhere from online, to magazines, to the street. Shearling is huge this season. Aside from your trusted Ugg boots, I would suggest investing in a pair of booties with shearling accents to add to your shoe collection. Even though this piece is very trendy now, it's staying power is debatable. However, a bootie with shearling accents can be worn day to night, which is why I like it. 

I can picture my selections during the day with great jeans and a chunky knit sweater. As for nighttime, I really think the possibilities are endless- especially with a heeled bootie. I think these are sexy and cozy at the same time. I like that... and my feet like it because (1) they look good and (2) they're warm! If boots aren't really your thing, I've seen shearling on everything from scarves and hats to accents on jackets. I've provided you with 7 great bootie styles (all with shearling accents, of course). All can be dressed up or down to mesh with your personal style. Plus, with cold months ahead of us, you may want to think about investing in a pair of these! (My persona favorites are the pairs by Nine West and BCBGeneration.) Happy weekending!

Nine West - Kybele - $129.00

Cole Haan - Michelle Shearling - $298.00

Franco Sarto - Spa - $139.00

Rocket Dog - Bonfire - $90.00

BCBGeneration - Melo - $149.00

KensieGirl - Ramina - $79.00

Copy Cat: Tweed Blazers

Today marks the first edition of "copy cat". Copy cat was my brainchild after I happened to stumble upon a recent edition of InStyle magazine. After I practically drooled over a picture of Posh (Victoria Beckham, and yes... I still prefer to call her by her spice name- Posh) wearing a gorgeous Chanel tweed jacket I realized something: by the time I'm able to afford one of those lovely jackets, I might be dead. And if I'm not, whose to say that I'll still lust for one when I'm sitting on top of the world (hey, a girl can dream). Alas, copy cat was conceived. Copy cat is going to feature designer look-alikes that are affordable for the wallet of any stylish AW. 

So, today's copy cat is all about tweed blazers. Quiz! Do you know which designer is famous for making the tweed blazer a must-have in every woman's wardrobe? Bravo to everyone who knew I was going to talk about Chanel! Ah, Chanel. You are beautiful, but dreadfully expensive. That's where these finds come in. I've selected four fabulous tweed blazers that I found online at Nordstrom and Piperlime. Don't waste your time lusting over the Chanel that 1 in 10 of us will potentially own someday. Live for the now and shop away!

Tweed blazers from Piperlime (top 2) and Nordstrom (bottom 2):

Aryn K. - Cropped Jacket - $95.00

Plastic Island - Black Magic Tweed Jacket - $216.00

Hinge - Crop Tweed Jacket - $138.00               

Frenchi - Tweed Jacket - $54.00

Guilty Conscience?

Ladies, my apologies for not entertaining you yesterday. All excuses aside, for today's hump day special, I will tempt you will one of the web's hottest member-only sites. Gilt Groupe. If you've already heard of Gilt, bravo. And if you're already a member, props to you! (I hear through the grapevine that they're getting quite picky these days...) For all you new kids on the block, Gilt Groupe is hot. Before I tell you a little bit about why they're "all the rage" apply to be a member at www.gilt.com. That's right, you have to apply to be a member; hence, the exclusivity of Gilt Groupe.


Gilt Groupe was formed in 2007 and the site "provides invitation-only access to highly coveted products and experiences at insider prices. Each day, Gilt offers its members a curated selection of merchandise, including apparel, accessories and lifestyle items across the women's, men's and children's categories. In addition, Gilt provides the best in home decor and entertaining essentials, along with luxury travel packages and fantastic offers on local services and experiences. Most sales start at noon ET and last only 36 hours, making Gilt.com an exclusive shopping destination for luxury at up to 70% off."


As mentioned in the above excerpt, Gilt Groupe is more than fashion- they have a great partnership with Jetsetter, a members-only site that parallels Gilt, but specific to traveling in style. If you're not already sold on joining Gilt Groupe, I'm going to share my personal thoughts with you. While I've only purchased two things from Gilt in my 8 months of membership, the purchases saved me a pretty penny. The first thing I bought was a Glam Rock watch. Beautiful! And significantly less than the original price tag. If you know/have seen Glam Rock you know what I'm talking about. Also, I've purchased a pair of Seven jeans on Gilt. Sevens are my go-to choice of denim and I couldn't resist. You can't blame me though, because I got them for about $75. Another thing that I love about Gilt is that they have something for every gal (or guy, or even little ones). I've seen everything on there from vintage Chanel, denim choices like Sevens, JBrand, Citizens, and lots of accessories (jewelry by Alex + Ani, Missoni scarves, Stuart Weitzman shoes, etc.).


I hope you will join because once they let you in, you'll understand why I posted about Gilt Groupe in the first place. And if you don't join for some crazy and ludicrous reason, you might will regret it.

Friend or Faux?

Rejoice, faux fur is no longer your enemy! A great wardrobe staple, faux fur is something that every fashionista should incorporate into her wardrobe this season. It's a great way to add some flair to your everyday ensembles, not to mention it keeps you warm! I really love a vest because it's versatile- you can wear it with anything from daytime casual jeans and a tee, or something dressier like a cute dress or skirt for a night on the town. Whatever your style mantra, faux fur is the "it" piece this season! So if a vest isn't your thing, spice up your wardrobe by adding some fabulous faux fur into the mix! But as for the vest, give it a try- you might be surprised that you can pull off this look! 

Faux fur vests under $100, all from Piperlime:

DKNY Jeans Faux Fur Vest - $89.00

Jack by BB Dakota Janika Vest - $69.00

Kensie Fur Vest - $88.00

Tinley Road Faux Fur Vest - $69.00

Eight Sixty Faux Fur Vest - $92.00

Tinley Road Faux Fur Long Vest - $69.00