Outfit Of The Day (Put A Lid On It)

Just a quick update for today, since I am getting over some sort of bizarre illness from this weekend. It's like part flu, part extreme head cold...and I've never had anything like it.  Ew. 

I had promised these snapshots on Friday over on the Facebook page, but (obviously) didn't get to them until today due to being sick and down for the count.  My apologies!

 

It is already snowy and cold here in Colorado, which means it is time for tights, longer jackets, and occasionally even a hat. Winter doesn't play around here homies, nuh uh.

Due to Lupus (and that whole must-avoid-the-sun-like-the-plague-even-if-it-is-brrrr-baby-cold-outside thing) I have become a fairly avid collector of hats. Not only are they brilliant for bringing on trips, as wearing a hat cuts down my hair-styling time to mere miraculous minutes, but I think that they are also great for adding a bit of polish to an outfit, too.

While I typically covet the creations by Eugenia Kim (hello- this beauty is high on my Christmas list!), I have found that places like Urban Outfitters, GAP, and Banana Republic have an excellent selection of hats at really great (affordable!) prices. GAP and Banana Republic also typically carry their hats in two or three sizes, which comes in handy for someone with a bigger noggin' like me.

I like 'em!  So there.

Hat: GAP Asymmetrical Fedora (buy it here) (similar style here) (and here in maroon by Goorin Bros)

Jacket: H&M (similar style here) (and here at Last Call + take 40% off!) (and here at ASOS) (and another option at ASOS)

Dress: Forever 21 (similar style here)  (and here + take 20% off with code "831")(love this by Three Dots, too)

Necklace: Ann Taylor Triple Row Pearl Strand Necklace (buy it here) (similar look here for under $20) (and love this at F21, too!)

Ring: Yves Saint Laurent Arty in green (buy it here)

Ring: Banana Republic Tigers Eye Ring (buy it here)

Watch: Michael Kors Blair in Espresso (buy it here) (similar style here) (and here for under $100)

Belt: Michael Kors (similar style here at J Crew) (and here at ASOS)

Shoes: J Crew Valentina Pumps (buy them here) (similar style here for under $50)

Bag: Lanvin Sweet Dora Crossbody (buy it here) (similar style here for $40) (and here by Fossil)

Lipstick: Nars Barbarella (buy it here)

I love hats--what fun little fashion accessory do you love to collect?  Share in the comments! ♥

Outfit Of The Day (J Crew Townhouse Trench)

First things first!  I received a lot of questions regarding the lace top my twin sister is wearing in the post below so I thought I'd answer it here so everyone sees it.  Her top is from Shop Ruche, and while it's currently sold out you can sign up for the wait list here. It's a fabulous top, isn't it?  Cheap-ish, too! :)

Now back to me. There are two things that I am loving so hard at the moment: crisp white coats and sneaky-snake prints.

When the J Crew Townhouse Trench first popped up online, it immediately became the "must have" item of the fall collection.  Not only does it come in seven pretty colors, but it also comes in petite and tall sizes, too.  Hooray!  No more looking like I'm a little kid playing some sort of drunken game of dress-up in some mom's too big clothes!

Unfortunately this trench has been 'juuuuust-okay' reviews online, and most with good reason.  While I absolutely love it, it is made of a fabric eerily similar to the Rachel Zoe peacoat below--meaning it isn't very warm. 

It is warmer than a usual cotton trench, of course, but this coat isn't meant for super-duper-hero warmth or for taking the pups out at 2am on a subzero, blizzardy winter night; oh no.  It's meant to be a bit of a show stopper, I think. This coat is (really) just like the prettiest sofas and chairs--they aren't for sitting in for hours while reading a good, flimsy, secret-guilty-pleasure-of-a-book, geez. They are for looking pretty so you keep your gosh darn Emily Griffin away from this coat, ya hear?

(I've been doing a lot of furniture shopping and test-trying lately, guys, please forgive.)

This coat is beautifully lined, nicely tailored, and the bold gold buttons draw eyes inward, making it insanely slimming and flattering.  It fits true to size (I'm wearing my normal petite J Crew size below) and in spite of its lack of insulation I think this might be the best coat I've ever bought.

A bold statement for a coat that offers little actual fall functionality?  Eh, what can I say--as J Crew likely knows after the scandalous rumors this week, sometimes true love is a little uncomfortable.  

Sometimes, true love is blind?

Coat: J Crew Townhouse Trench (buy it here) (similar style here by DKNY) (and here by WHBM + take $50 off with code "17652")(and here for under $100!)
Dress: H&M  (similar style at ASOS) (and here at ASOS) (and here at 6pm.com) (and here by Aryn K)
Belt: Miss Selfridge (similar style here) (and here at ASOS)

Hat: ASOS (buy it here) (similar style here) (and in another color here) (and here for $9.99)
Watch: Michael Kors Oversize Runway Watch in Rosegold (buy it here) (similar style here for $125)
Bag: MARC (!!) Jacobs Cooper in Nude (buy it here) (similar style by Marc Jacobs here) (similar style here for under $100)
Shoes: Christian Louboutin Neo Mars Pumps (buy them here) (similar style here) (and here) (and here at UO for $49 + take $20 off on orders of $100+ with code "BOO")

(Play on, playa)

Currently Loving (August 2011)

It's that time of month again: here are 11 things that I am loving right now.  Links and more information are all below--enjoy!

1. Valentino Rockstud Python Flats (neimanmarcus.com) - A flat version of my most-loved kitten heels and in python?! Gorgeous, pretty, love.

2. ASOS Pleated Maxi (asos.com) - So. I created this little image about 10 days ago and meant to post it before my last 'outfit of the day', which...didn't happen. Pardon the redundancy here, my dears!  But hey, I do love the skirt (and judging from the comments, I'm glad you all loved it too!).

3. Blue Raspberry Snow Cone Shampoo, Shower Gel, and Bubble Bath (philosophy.com) - Philosophy is well-known for their fun, limited edition scents that they come out with every season (Cinnamon Red Hots! Chocolate Easter bunnies!), but this scent is hands down my favorite of all time. It's so sweet and juicy! (plus take 10% off with code "FRIENDS")

4. Rachel Zoe Natalie Tie Collar Blouse (piperlime.com) - Say what you will about the boho-tastic Californian stylist, but her new clothing, shoe, and handbag collection has been making waves (ha, get it?) in the fashion world. It is with good reason, too: it's full of gorgeous coats, beautiful capes, sophisticated blouses, and perfect pants cut in her signature wide-leg flare style.  Love this leopard-print bow blouse!

5. Free People City Floating Cape (freepeople.com) - Capes are cool, cozy, and set to be the coat-shape of the season--isn't this one divine?

6. Giorgio Armani Eye To Kill Mascara (giorgioarmanibeauty.com) - There are lots of fancy mascaras out there (and I've tried them all, I swear!) but this is my current favorite.  It lengthens and volumizes while leaving lashes soft--not stiff, woohoo!  It also doesn't bother my sensitive eyes.

7. Karl Lagerfeld for Macy's (nymag.com) - While reactions to the collection have been a bit mixed, there are a few pretty, standout pieces in the limited edition line (like this dress, and this one too!). The price points seem decent too, with most items falling between $50 to $70--look for it at a Macy's near you on August 31st.

8. Prada 'Minimal Baroque' Round Sunglasses (nordstrom.com) - I love a good pair of fun sunglasses, and when I spied these pretty puppies in pictures of Prada's Spring 2011 runway show I was immeeeediately smitten.  The rococo-swirly arms and big, round shades make these both cool and comfy, and I reach for them whenever I need to make a change-up from my tighter-fitting cat-eyes shades.

9. Lanvin Happy Mini Pop Python Bag (barneys.com) - Slithery-snake prints are set to be a huge upcoming trend this fall, and this bag keeps the scaly material super pretty with a nice, gold metallic sheen. Only someone like Mr. Alber Elbaz could find a fancy gold metallic python to kill and make into a beautiful bag, mmhm. ;)

10. Fantasy Fur Cuffs (asos.com) - Even though the cold weather of winter is still a ways away, I grabbed these cuffs as soon as I saw them pop up on asos.com. They attach easily to the sleeve of any jacket (or hey, even a long-sleeve sweater or sweater dress) and are a super fun way to keep old jackets and coats looking fresh for under $30. So easy!  (And if you like these, make sure to check out the fur collars, too!)

11. Hazel & Dewey - I found this new charming boutique last month while wondering down Broadway here in Denver.  They describe themselves as a "modern mercantile" that "curates quality goods that are courageously designed, for gifts, guests and hosts alike." and indeed, they do--while the store itself isn't big, the selection is super cool.  Find everything from pretty stationary to unique bowls and dish towels--if you love the housewares in Anthropologie or are looking for a unique gift, you will LOVE this!

What's on your "lust list" for this month? Share in the comments! :)

Currently Loving (June 2011)

It's that time of month again! Here are 12 things that I am coveting this month; links (and more info!) for all of the items are below. Enjoy!

1. Shut The Front Door - WillamDohman (etsy.com) - This St. Paul, Minnesota resident makes all sorts of cheeky signs (and in all sorts of fun colors, too!).  Love!

2. Giuseppe Zanotti E10336 Sandals (zappos.com) -  I will always love a little bit of leopard, and these sandals combine juuust the right amount in a comfy ankle-wrap shape.

3. River Island Crossbody Snake Lady Bag (asos.com) - Reptile prints are slated to be hot this coming fall and winter, and this bag has a pretty lady-like shape with a bit of bite, corny slithering into style puns included.

4. Martine Chaison's Apartment (via May/June lonnymag.com) - Be still my rapidly beating heart.

5. Edmundo Castillo Pointed Toe Suede Pumps (shopbop.com) -  A bright and bold color in a slightly understated heel; while it may look like a simple pump for afar, its slightly elongated vamp helps lengthen legs while being smokin' hot to boot. 

6. Chandelier Sconce in Black (zgallerie.com) - These are perfect for hanging anywhere you need a little bit of elegance. (take 10% off with code "taketen05") 

7. Leopard Vintage-style Faux Fur Coat (topshop.com) - I am not entirely sure why it already seems to already be fall at this UK-based retailer, but no matter.  This coat is gorgeous and satisfies the crazy-over-medicated-little-old-lady in me, even if it will have to hang in my closet for a few months before wearing!

8. Gazelle Head Wall Plaque (zgallerie.com) - In spite of ceramic animal heads quickly becoming the most over-used accessory in design, I still love them.  This gazelle provides something different than the usual deer head; look for pictures of them in my own home soon. (+ take 10% off with code "taketen05")

9. Diesel Casual Pants (yoox.com) - This is the summer of color, and peachy-corally-pink pants are perfect for pairing with ivories, camels, and yellows.

10. Diane Von Furstenberg Miro Flowers Tray (bloomingdales.com) - The queen of the wrap dress is quickly also becoming the queen of pretty home goods; this tray is stunning!

11. D Bar Desserts - Denverites take note: even if you're like me and are quickly tiring of quirky bakeries, this little spot (located next to Strings in the uptown City Park neighborhood) has killer food to go along with the killer desserts. Highly recommend the macaroni and cheese and warm cookies with milk--a simple concept done incredibly well!

12. Ray Ban Plastic Aviators (urbanoutfitters.com) - I was looking for a pair of aviators slightly different than the ones my Husband wears (matching sunglasses = a little too dorky, eh?) when I stumbled upon these and quickly fell in love.  They combine the classic aviator look with a thicker, plastic frame that's both super comfortable and easy to wear.  

What's on your "lust list" for this month? Share in the comments below!

Currently Loving (March 2011)

Dream, dream, dream.  Here are 15 things that I'm coveting this month; links+ more info for all of the items are below.  Enjoy!

1. Joie Fanny Lace Blouse (Neiman Marcus) - Lace has been a hot trend for awhile now, and the slightly puffy shoulders + pretty scalloped details of this blouse makes it perfect for pairing with skinny jeans, tulip skirts, or ruffly shorts.

2. Kara by Kara Ross Brown Tiger Python and Amethyst Ring (Max & Chloe) - I love a good piece of statement jewelry!

3. Diane Von Furstenberg Night 5 Piece Place Setting in Gold (Bloomingdale's) - Diane Von Furstenberg's home collection only hit stores last month and I already have several items on my lust list; this place setting is at the top!

4. Elizabeth and James Lang Booties (Ssense) Peep-toe booties are excellent for wearing with almost anything; I'd pair these with a sweet, floral summer dress or paper-bag shorts + a black boatneck tee. (take 20% off)

5. Valentino Rockstud Inlaid Lace Shoulder Bag (Neiman Marcus) - Serious swoon!

6. Nubby Panama Hat (Urban Outfitters) - I'm always looking for ways to keep myself covered as the days turn sunny and warm; this hat is perfect in ivory and will be coming with on a future trip to Hawaii this summer!

7. Queen Anne Mirror (Jonathan Adler) - A super modern twist on a vintage shape (and fabulous to boot!) that would be perfect for placing above a console table.

8. Miu Miu Lace-up Slingback Sandals (Neiman Marcus) - Charming with feminine, scalloped details but extremely comfortable with a platform; look for these to make a debut on this blog soon!

9. Nars Lip Pencil in Fantasia (Nars Cosmetics) - I'm already gearing up for summer lip hues and this lip pencil works flawlessly with all shades of coral and pink....or even by itself with a lil' bit of lip gloss.  Love it.

10. Edible Pink and Black Butterflies (PinchMeImDreaming on Etsy) - Spring is still a ways away, but I'm still dying to bake some cupcakes and perch these pretty little butterflies on top.  So fun!

11. Embellished Fabric Cuff (Topshop) - I love using cuffs to dress up basic t's and dresses (I always buy two so I can do the "Wonder Woman" and wear one on each arm!).

12. Lampe Sandals (ALDO) - My obsession with feathers knows no bounds; look for these to be making an appearance on this blog once the snow melts, too! (take 10% off with code "310687611" through 4-1)

13. Herringbone Cargo Dress (J Crew) - I have a few trips to climes with warmer weather coming up this year, and cotton dresses are always the best!  They're comfy and pack well, and this cargo dress from J Crew is darling!

14. Brittany Beaded Dress (Alice + Olivia) - The beading!  The sparkle!  This dress is gorgeous!

15. Lisa Handbag (Bakers Shoes) - A handbag that combines the lady-like satchel shape with a bit of colorblocking, too?  And it's under $100?  Sold!

What is on your wish list for this month?  Share in the comments!