Summer Safari

I love the city in August. Yes it can be hot, but it is so nice
and quiet. The pace is slower and more conducive to exploring.

I am wearing a safari style sleeveless khaki dress with self belt that I discovered at H&M. This look is truly one of my go to uniforms. In the summer, I like to take a sweater with me for those dramatic changes in temperatures. Here I chose a a Dolce & Gabbana thin silk cardigan in a fun zebra print that I tucked into my Zara bucket bag.

Patricia Underwood lacquered fine straw hat continues this neutral palette and "safari" theme. Not only does this hat provide protection from the sun, but it also saved me from a very bad hair day!

Tip:

Know the styles and silhouettes that fit and flatter your figure. They are available at all price points, but more fun when you spot it for $34.99!

Tropical Heat

Sunday early evening pool side BBQ...
Tangerine felt refreshing and easy to wear.

A simple cotton J.Crew tank, Donna Karan silk sarong,
Prada sandals.

Accessories:  
Vintage Ted Lapidas sunglasses and vintage Kenneth
Jay Lane coral and sea shell necklace. 

Summer Tunic

I have had this vintage Geoffrey Beene white linen tunic
with oversized patch pockets for years. Every summer I love
pulling it out and thinking of new ways to wear this special
piece. The clean simple lines and cut are timeless and the
fit is flattering. 

Last weekend I was feeling a little Parisian. Candidly, it was
dinner and the film "Midnight in Paris" that inspired my
outfit. I paired the tunic with black linen walking shorts,
Prada slides, a black silk beret by Donna Karan and a cool
pair of vintage octagon sunglasses.

Inspired by these outrageous vintage Pucci sunglasses,
I went for a more mod/retro look. I chose to wear the
tunic with blue and white diamond patterned narrow silk
pants by Michael Kors (these are from one of his resort 
collections from years ago), cobalt blue suede heels by Zara
(worn in my previous blog) and a wonderful vintage coral
brooch. 

TIP: 
When you are feeling at a loss for what to wear, try to be
inspired by where you are going (like the movies) or find
an accessory that you want to build a story around. 

Easy Breezy Summer

Long summer dresses are fun to wear. Add some stripes to the mix and I am very happy! The razor back style of this dress is flattering to my frame and covers a sun sensitive décolletage. The 2 side slits add the right amount of leg reveal and create a nice flow to this graphic frock. Lastly, the color combination, black and blue is très chic, plus the crispness of white... oh so summer! Zara dress and cobalt blue suede sandals, vintage Don Marshall straw hat and Elsa Peretti bone cuff in sterling silver. 

Fête

I was fortunate to attend a dear friend's surprise birthday fête last weekend.
The setting, a spectacular Spanish Revival Colonial home was the inspiration
for my attire! I knew I wanted to create an outfit around my Zara beaded
"Bolero Jacket."

The dress is a fabulous Charles Chang-Lima long ribbed column with leather
piping and a thin long leather belt wrapped several times with little brass beads
on the ends. Anticipating that we may be outside on the grass, I wanted to
wear a shoe that would be comfortable and appropriate. I chose a favorite;
Guess cork wedge with long black cotton ties.

The accessories continue a Moorish/Spanish feel, and upon a second
glance, an ethnic and handmade quality can be observed.
– A small hammered brass cushioned shaped bag
– A twisted black and gold shaped dome ring
– Christian Lacroix patterned gold toned disk clip earrings
– An intricately flexible cuff with seed shaped gold beads

TIP:
It is always fun and helpful to have an inspiration for your ensemble.

To see how I wore this Bolero Jacket last year, I invite you to visit my 
archives (Bolero Jacket).  

Denim

I immediately swooned when I saw this denim skirt at Talbots.
Totally my "style DNA" because it fits and flatters my figure,
works with my lifestyle and it's so wearable. Denim can be
dressed up or down and is suitable right into Fall. 

I paired this skirt with a fitted white safari style shirt from Zara, a brown
leather belt and platform heels. The handbag – one of my favorites, is
a vintage Etienne Aigner. I love how the size and shape of this handbag
balances the proportion of the skirt and shoes. Notice how the texture
of the woven straw and horn clasp pull this outfit together.

TIP:
Don't horse around when shopping! Purchase items that are your
"style DNA," versatile and can take you into the next season. Building a
core collection of wearable clothes is true investment dressing. 

Color Block

Deeply saturated contrasting colors worn together is bold and current. Not for the shy
but certainly worth a try! I decided to have some fun with this color block trend.
The trick here is to make color the  theme of your outfit. I chose to pair a fitted
cropped cobalt blue jacket with these outrageous fuchsia suede platform heels. The
black wide leg silk pants pants strategically separates the intense shades and adds
a nice balance and flow.

My one and only accessory, these fabulous black sunglasses with vivid cobalt blue
stripe were a great find!

Giorgio Armani jacket, YSL shoes and Prada sunglasses. All items available at Neiman
Marcus Paramus, NJ. 

Stripes

This Zara dress caught my eye, not only for its classic nautical colors (and price), but also because stripes are one of my favorite graphic prints. The linear movement is complimentary to my petite frame and adds a nice touch of cheerfulness.

I love the fitted bodice and the slightly exaggerated full short skirt. It's a wonderful balance of whimsy and demure.

Grommets

Typically I am not a fan of "hardware" on clothing. I prefer to use various accessories as a way to play with trends and embellishments. However, I was drawn to this dress. The burnished grommets running down the dress reminded me of medieval times while the color, style and crinkle stretch fabric echoed the right amount of classic safari. Somehow all these references and details seemed timeless and quite wearable. Playing with these themes and textures, I chose chunky cork wedges with a zebra pattern and an engraved bronze beaded cuff to pull together this outfit.

Burberry dress, Prada shoes and Stephen Dweck cuff. All items available at Neiman Marcus Paramus, N.J.

Red

One of the biggest trends right now is bold solid color. I have always loved and worn red. Valentino is known and celebrated for his use of this vivid poppy shade. Since this dress has such an intense impact, I chose to ground the outfit with black accessories. Each is classic in style, but if you look closely, they are all a bit exaggerated to help balance the look.

Valentino dress, Christian Louboutin black leather peep toe pumps, Prada sunglasses and structured Nancy Gonzalez alligator clutch. All items available at Neiman Marcus, Paramus, New Jersey.  

Spring Forward

We all have our "go to uniforms". Items in our wardrobe that make us feel comfortable and authentic. For me, I love trenches and safari jackets. I have been wearing them for years. Candidly, I am embarrassed to share with you how many variations of this theme I have. But, I do believe that if a certain style speaks to your lifestyle and sensibilities, stick with it. To give this classic a more current look, I chose a pair of fitted flared jeans. The short crop jacket and long lean silhouette feels modern and fun.

Another favorite of mine is animal prints. The colors of the tote add a fresh spring twist. 

2 Ways

I'm not a fan of "rules" in fashion. However, I do believe having "guidelines" helps you stay
on task and keeps you focused. When it comes to shopping, I am very practical. Of course
the cost is always a consideration, but I look at the true value of something if it meets
certain criteria.

Does this item?
1. Fit and flatter my figure
2. Work with my "Style DNA"
3. Can I wear it at least "2 ways"


I spotted this black velvet dress on sale. Classic, timeless and very versatile. Immediately I started to think about the style possibilities. Since it is on the short side, I knew I needed to consider balance and proportion (not to mention appropriateness for my age). Worn as a tunic I knew I had many options. I loved the idea of wearing this as a hostess outfit. Easy to move in and it projects a relaxed welcoming feel to guests. I chose a vintage Kenneth Jay Lane chain belt. The lion head clasp and tassel is truly unique. Keeping with the silver/gunmetal tone I piled stacks of bangles on each wrist. Look for "zones" for your accessories. The shortened drop sleeve was a perfect "zone" to add some sparkle as well as the neckline which called for dramatic dangle earrings. For shoes, I thought these embroidered Badgley Mischka heels completed the "Spanish" influence.


Worn as a dress, I wanted a low heel and thought the over-the-knee suede boots balanced the outfit. I was inspired by the Renaissance period and thought my ivory ruffled blouse would work well under the dress. Black fishnet hose for a sliver of texture and a long massive vintage pendant necklace (ideal accessory zone) finished off the look. With all the fuss at the neck and hands, I decided to keep the rest of the accessories to a minimum.


Tips:
1. Don't buy something just because it is on sale. If you can't wear it with other items in your closet, it's not a bargain!
2. Be mindful and responsible. Think through your purchase and confirm that you will have several style options.
3. Have fun and be creative. Experiment with your existing clothes and accessories.

Black velvet dress by Laundry is available at Neiman Marcus, Paramus.
Bangles and dramatic tear drop earrings by RJ Graziano.


A few of my favorite things...

I am grateful to have inherited a wonderful collection of vintage clothes and accessories from my mother and grandmothers. Each item is a treasure. Learning about the history, construction, fabrics, materials, designers... all the details fascinate me. I cherish this special connection to my family history and being able to wear these items while making them my own. It makes dressing so much more fun, interesting and meaningful.

Here are a few of my favorite things...


This fabulous duchess satin zebra print swing coat was my grandmothers... not a shy woman! (it came with a matching shift dress - check out my blog archives "Zebra in NYC" to see how I wore it) For a pop of color I chose a yellow satin pencil skirt. I decided to tone down the rest of the outfit with nude patent peep toe sling backs and a cream cashmere sweater. I needed to balance the bold pattern of the coat and vivid color of the skirt with something at the neck so I added the 4 strands of large wood beads from H&M. Mixing old and new and high and low keeps the outfit original and balanced.

The ivory linen vest with coral lace applique's and beaded details is an exquisite piece I inherited from my mother. I have worn this treasure several ways. In this picture, I chose to scale down the formality of the vest and wore a pair of white crop jeans from The Gap. The jewelry is all vintage Kenneth Jay Lane. A hammered brass clutch and metallic sandals added the right amount of texture and shimmer.


My mother is a true devotee and patron of the millinery world. Over the years I have been lucky to get some special hats from her. This chinchilla oversized beret is warm and slightly dramatic. I am always playing with balance so to keep it simple I wore a charcoal grey 3/4 sleeve mock turtleneck.


A classic from my grandmother, an original "Martha" ivory basket weave wool swing coat with wine velvet collar and matching jewel buttons - gorgeous!!! Vintage wrist length black suede gloves with delicate floral embroidery adds to the feminine feel. I thought I would be adventurous and be on trend and wear sheer black hosiery with pin dots. Black satin Manolo Blahnik shoes with rhinestone buckle.


Tips:
1. Try to mix high and low with old and new. It will make your outfit affordable and unique.
2. Be mindful to balance items that have impact with simple and neutral pieces.
3.The care and storage of vintage items is very important. Fabrics are delicate and can fade. Using the proper hangers, garment bags, tissue paper and boxes can help extend the life of these precious pieces.

NY Fashion Week - Fall 2011

I love attending this event. The energy and inspirations are immensely invigorating... not just in the tents, but also outside of the shows. Street fashion has never been more relevant. Photographers swarm Lincoln Center and the other venues to capture real Personal Style. There is a serious interest in how "pedestrians" put themselves together. This has become just as important in the fashion world as what the designers are presenting as the newest trends in their collections.



I chose a Persian Lamb cropped jacket with 3/4 sleeves (perfect for my long black leather gloves), a simple black merino wool turtleneck (3/4 sleeve as well to work under the jacket and accommodate the length of the gloves) and my high waist wide leg "black & white fleck" pants. Yes, a repeat performance from a previous blog, I do wear my clothes more than once, but here I made a shift with my accessories. I wanted to break up the dense black with a very long gold vintage necklace that I wrapped several times around my neck. Lastly, I added a fabulous long pendant piece. The rose color stone added a wonderful focal point. A double faced boucle wrap had the right texture and weight for extra warmth, plus the fringe and pink added some drama.... a must for fashion week!

Tips:
1. Fashion Trends can be overwhelming. My advice is to carefully and honestly edit what works for you.

2. Be true and consistent with your "Style DNA". Stick to silhouettes that fit and flatter your figure.

3. Accessories are a great way to sprinkle in some trends and infuse your personality and individualism.

Agate stone pendant necklace by Jose & Maria Barrera and Persian Lamb crop jacket available at Neiman Marcus, Paramus.

Valentine/Birthday Soiree

I like to have a direction when I put an outfit together. This helps me focus to create a story.
So, I thought about the setting and tone of my friends special evening. When I went to look for
something to wear in my closet, this Armani chiffon and cut velvet dress caught my eye.
(I must admit, it is an oldie, but goodie - I bought this dress over 15 years ago!). The colors
reminded me of the hosts beautiful new family room. Inspiration! I decided to focus on the
color palette as my theme. I went for the deep purple satin shoes knowing color was my story.
The 2 vintage necklaces, (I have had since college) are fabulous. A 3 strand lavender faceted
rhinestone necklace and a bib necklace with sherbert colored glass beads. Honestly, I never
thought of putting them together, but using color as my theme, I felt confident to pile them
up and it all seemed to work.


Tip:
Think of using themes and/or inspirations to help you focus on a style for your outfit.

Old Favorites

Sometimes you just want ease, comfort and warmth.

My favorite worn in jeans with frayed cuffs, a cozy black cashmere turtleneck and extra
long fringe scarf are wardrobe staples. My black shearing hat covered a bad hair day
and is incredibly warm.

Classic double breasted Polo Ralph Lauren camel coat. I must admit, this was my son's.
He has outgrown it so, being resourceful (and sentimental, he turned 16 last weekend)
I grabbed it for the day. Actually, I am going to keep it.

Tip: Don't be quick to give away "old" items. If they fit, make you feel good and are
classic, wear them with confidence and with a twist of style!

Black and White Flecks

I spotted these fabulous pants on sale and immediately fell for them.
High waisted, flat front with wide leg, very Katherine Hepburn. The
chic little pockets with black grosgrain bows, so Chanel! (Actually,
the pants are CH by Carolina Herrera). I was drawn to the black
and white fleck fabric, it has an interesting subtle grey cast and
wonderful texture. (Sorry that it practically blends with the street).

Since I am petite I need to consider proportion, so high heels are a
must. I chose a black long sleeve turtle neck and cropped leather vest
with persian lamb trim to balance the textures and fullness of the pants.

Black hand bag with gold chain (a big trend going forward) and one
of my favorite accessories, a extra wide rhinestone and chain link bracelet.
It is very bling. Just thought it added the right touch.

Wishing you a full and fabulous New Year!

Vintage Snow

I tend to gravitate to clothes and accessories that have a timeless feel. This Ralph Lauren
wool ski sweater must be over 25 years old! Vintage Bogner Ski pants and lace up boots.
Black fur lined trapper hat. So warm.

Changing it up a little. Same sweater and pants worn with wide black fur headband 
fur snow boots. Retro style Persol sunglasses.


I bought this Nordic sweater a few years ago. Worn with my favorite Gap boyfriend
jeans and ethnic print Technica boots. Ivory hand knit Irish celtic gloves with
leather palms add to the play with textures and an old world theme.


This fur hat was my mom's. A Don Marshall original. Oversized and so much fun to wear.

Enjoy

Rain Delay

Inclement weather can be miserable. Certainly I like to keep warm and dry,
but why not have some fun and style too?

My "Elmer Fudd" hat is by Polo Ralph Lauren. I have worn this guy for years. 
The Barbour black wax and silk jacket is paired with a fleece vest and striped sailor
turtleneck by H&M. Lastly, my favorite handbag by Un Apres-Midi de Chien is washable
nylon, light and so easy to wear. I love the shape, size and contrasting handles and stitching. 

When I started to write this blog and think about all the items, I had to laugh. I got these
Wembley Equestrian Riding Rubber Boots 25 years ago after I propped and styled a
magazine spread all about the new "Equestrian" fashion trend. Jodhpurs and Riding boots
were hitting the streets. I thought they were great looking and practical. I must admit,
through the years I did get many comments asking me where my horse was!


Hunter, Barbour, Le Chameau and many other companies offer wide
assortments of great waterproof footwear.

So take a risk, have some humor and wit. There is no excuse not to look
and feel fabulous even when it's gloomy outside.