Maven Alert: Soludos Low Cut Espadrille

Good morning, Monday...it's Tax Day in America and man if it doesn't just bring its own kind of gloom to the equation, despite the balmy temps and glorious sun this weekend.  Though many of us may not be in a super spendy mood, there's surely some of you W2 types out there who may even be getting some money back- IMAGINE THAT.

Still, it's a mind your P's and Q's kind of day so here's something to buy that won't break the bank- a new pair of Soludos espadrilles for Spring. And though the Ikat patterned pair is under $50, my fav pair hands down is the low cut raffia ones- adorable beyond belief but slightly more spendy at $65. Love the new shape and feeling like these are super streamlined and casual in all the right ways. I bought a pair at the Miami airport last week (there is the cutest store in the AA terminal there- they sell great beachy cover ups by local Debbie Katz, Calypso and Kai perfume, and great items like espadrilles). Yes, I know buying things in the airport is weird, but can you think of something better to do when your plane is delayed for two hours? Didn't think so...I bought them in black and green, but they also come in black and orange, black and white, and black and yellow. And since green is the color of money, my purchase was right in sync with today's festivities.

Anyway, these are so cute and don't you just love the translation of the brand's name? Cheers to the sun, indeed. And cheers to buying an essential this April 15th as the tax man cometh. At under $100, you should still have plenty of room to negotiate with the IRS while rocking your new fav pair of shoes for Spring. Cause that's what's up this here comes the sun despite government collections kind of Monday. Oh the cuteness. XO

http://www.soludos.com/


Maven Pick: Proenza Schouler's "Crowd" bags

Hi, Thursday. I've been in Miami the past few days having a fabulous time- we all know how I feel about this place when it comes to service oriented endeavors, but other than that, lovely to see the ocean and breathe the air. But besides admiring the view and staring in disbelief at how everyone here is half naked, I am OBSESSED with the latest bag offerings from Proenza Schouler, and you probably are too.

I've got a dear friend who lives here in Miami that I fashion IM with most days- we send each other links of bags and shoes and things we love because that's how we roll. She's a fashion geek and so am I, and she has amazing taste so it's a fun little game. The other day she sent me a link to Proenza's new crowd print bag (she's a big fan of the PS1 and who isn't really)- a serious purse with an amazing photographic print. I adore photo prints making their way into wardrobes all over town, and this bag is just beyond. I also love the tote style (I dig a tote for NYC days) and would buy this bag in a heartbeat, and the little clutch is divine as well for evening endeavors or smaller portions. It's such a unique take on wearing a printed accessory that I am having a real Lucy moment over here, cooking up a hairbrained scheme to get my mitts on one of these. (Are you there, G-d? It's me, Sheri. Can I please have this bag?)

Thanks to my lovely friend for sending me this, but I also curse her because I can't stop thinking about how much I want a piece of this stellar collection. After all, who wants to just be a face in the crowd? This bag will help you, or me, (better me than you) really stand out. And for the price, you better like an audience. Cause that's what's up this crowded Thursday in the 305. Been a while since I've said that, and it feels nice to be here. XO

Link to bags below, easy now:

http://www.proenzaschouler.com/shop/new-arrivals?pkw=proenza+schouler&pmt=e

Because they're awesome

Good afternoon, friends and Romans. It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood and the merc is on the rise, thus making me fearful of spring fashion and all of its "exposure". My legs are the color of transluscent chalk and I'm feeling shy, so wanted to just post this old school picture of Carine and Emanuelle back in the days when they were amies. The bad assness is off the charts. I can't. That's why I had to show you this- thanks to Into the Gloss for posting in the first place. Heaven.

Bare legs/black never go out of style and are seasonless. Just looking at this pic makes me feel more confident. Onward with the new season though still keep those black frocks close by- all is not lost when trying to keep with the classics when approaching seasonal chic. Cause that's what's up this Carine and Emanuelle are everything kind of Lundi in le New York. All l'amour. XO

Maven pick: A Jumpsuit for this season

Good day, Friday my beautiful creature. It's a lovely Spring day here in the big big city and I'm feeling happy to be here experiencing that awesome metamorphosis from Winter city blues to Spring city happies. It may just be that I'm in a swell mood, but looks like everyone on the street has finally exhaled and let in that great Spring energy.

And as I get ready to head into my closet this weekend (yes, I said head in. It's a room in itself. Don't ask. Oh you didn't ask? Good.), I'm for sure keeping my eye on one of my favorite staples for warm weather dressing, and that's the lovable jumpsuit. It's simply the bones for Spring/Summer fabulousness- pile on the accessories and you're gorgeous.

As someone whose always enjoyed the thought of wearing a uniform (wouldn't that take the pressure off in the morning), I'm drawn to the jumpsuit's utility and ease. And on warm days, effortless dressing is simply a must- one piece. Done. As a huge fan of summer dresses, I have a mindset that is decidedly singular when it comes to clothes; nothing better than throwing something over one's head and just going, going, and going some more. Besides, what's better than a grown up, chic onesie?

And for those of you wondering just how functional a jumpsuit is (downsides being restricted peeing ability/sheepish having to sit in bra on public toilet and tightness on more generous hips), never fear. There's a million of these cute suckers for sale just about everywhere, to suit every price range and every shape. The peeing thing is still confounding- just don't wear a jumpsuit to a beer garden. (That may very well be the name of my memoirs). You won't be pleased. 

Anyhoo, here's a bevy of options for your inspirational enjoyment. Bring on the easy dressing of balmy days and nights. I hear it's going to be in the 60s this weekend- I'm starting my sewing class on Saturday and looking forward to that and some time enjoying the great outdoors, Brooklyn style. Cause that's what's up this jump to it kind of Friday in the 212. Have a blessed and well suited weekend. One love. XO

JUMPSUITS: A GUIDE FOR VIRGINS AND EXPERIENCES JS WEARERS ALIKE. SOME OF THE BEST OF THE SEASON BELOW:

FOR CHANNELING STUDIO 54: GREEN SILK JUMPSUIT BY RACHEL ROY

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/rachel-roy-silk-jumpsuit/3432251?siteId=J84DHJLQk...

FOR HANGING LOOSE AND LETTING GO: HACHE LOOSE-FIT JUMPSUIT

http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/women/hache-loose-fit-jumpsuit-item-10342415...

FOR BEING SEXY, SULTRY, AND STRAPLESS: ZIMMERMAN V STRAPLESS JUMPSUIT

http://www.shopbop.com/strapless-jumpsuit-zimmermann/vp/v=1/1541008922.htm?fo...

FOR FESTIVAL GOING: FREE PEOPLE MIXED FLORALS JUMPSUIT

http://www.freepeople.com/novelty/mixed-print-jumpsuit/?cm_mmc=CJ-_-Affiliate...

FOR PRETTY DATE NIGHT WITH GARDENIA PERFUME: JUICY COUTURE SILK AND LACE FORAL PRINT JUMPSUIT

http://www.juicycouture.com/Silk-Lace-Floral-Print-Jumpsuit/JG007613,default,...

FOR SATURDAYS AROUND TOWN WHEN YOU HAVE THE CITY TO YOURSELF: L'AT BY L'AGENCE SPAGHETTI STRAP JUMPSUIT

http://www.ronherman.com/Spaghetti-Strap-Jumpsuit/p/1131297?cid=950&idx=3...

FOR PREPPY BEACH WEEKENDS: ANTIK BATIK BARRY JUMPSUIT

http://www.shopbop.com/barry-jumpsuit-antik-batik/vp/v=1/1594475638.htm?folde...

FOR TRIPPING THE LIGHT FANTASTIC: NASTY GAL ECLIPSE SHADOW ROMPER 

http://www.nastygal.com/clothes/eclipse-shadow-romper

FOR COVERING UP YET STILL LOOKING HOT: HAUTE HIPPIE LONG SLEEVE JUMPSUIT

http://www.bergdorfgoodman.com/p/Haute-Hippie-Long-Sleeve-Jumpsuit-Jumpsuits/...

FOR CHANNELING STEVIE NICKS: NASTY GAL STARGAZER JUMPSUIT

http://www.nastygal.com/clothes/stargazer-jumpsuit

FOR LOVELY LIMBS ON WARM AFTERNOONS: RAG AND BONE/JEAN THE READING DENIM JUMPSUIT

http://www.bergdorfgoodman.com/p/rag-bone-JEAN-The-Reading-Denim-Jumpsuit-Gre...

FOR PARISIAN BOHO INPSIRED ROAD TRIPS: ETOILE ISABEL MARANT SETH JUMPSUIT

http://www.barneys.com/%C3%89toile-Isabel-Marant-Seth-Jumpsuit/502243307,defa...

 

H&M has a conscience...and it's a chic one.

 

Good afternoon, Thursday. I do believe Spring has sprung- the air is changing and hopefully the last of the arctic air is behind us and the Canadian Goose can get stowed. I'm so ready for Spring.

And though I'm vexed by the very vexing shenanigans happening in North Korea, I'm not vexed enough to NOT think about clothing. Not for one hot second. Especially when favorite accessible brand H&M is busting out its lovely Conscious Collection yet again, this time inspired by Hollywood Glamour and all about looks for special occasions and parties. For those not familiar, H&M has been doing conscious clothing for a minute now, with all materials used moving us all towards a more sustainable future. Who can argue with that? And with so much to argue about, it makes sense our wardrobes can do a little something for the world, one glamorous and affordable item at a time. 

My fav looks are above, and it may be worth a little visit over to your local H&M to check out these pieces- that mint tulle skirted/bustier on top dress look is kind of everything for chic girls looking for a new way to do prom, and I love that strapless black cocktail number with the white ruffle is quite the number for summer weddings or cocktail parties somewhere chic.And that lace boho long sleeved, high necked number? Ooh. All of it's great really...

I just think in lieu of the cuckoo world we are all currently residing in, we need to make ourselves aware to the choices we have out there- and why not start with what we wear? Do something by wearing something if you will, doing well by dressing "good" and all that. Cause that's what's up this enlightened and fabulous Springish Thursday in the 212. XO

http://www.hm.com/us/conscious-exclusive-ladies#path=2&transition=10&duration=500

Bag alert: The Monserat de Lucca Benecio

Good afternoon friends. It's been a long day and busy with work but wanted to pause and pay homage to a new bag designer I found, Monserat de Lucca. From the looks of the phone number (310) they are Angelenos, and I'm digging what they're putting down.

I am a HUGE fan of a Moroccan inspired leather bag called the Benecio- and this one does the trick when it comes to a summer tote to go with all of those flowy white frocks and brown sandals. I adore brown and white in the summer time- not to mention how great this bag would be with a denim or chambray shirt or shirt dress. I adore a hippie bag and this one is just too cute for words- and a brown leather bag in summer time is kind of a must have as black bags feel too heavy and dark for the warmer months- brown is the new black I suppose when it comes to Spring and Summer dress.  And speaking of lighter colors. I also love this bag in the  white/beige color (bone on the site) but in New York amidst all the grime and funk that's a recipe for (fashion) disaster. Best to go with the darker colors so as not to cry over spoiled accessories. And I don't know about you, but it's nice to find a young designer who's making stuff that's just not so bloody obvious. Am I the only one over "it" bags?

That's about all I've got right now- check out some of their jewelry offerings too which play to a cheeky aesthetic and are super wearable and fun. Cause that's what's up this good bags are the answer kind of Wednesday in the 212. Peace, love, and handbags.XO

And here it is styled on A Well Traveled Woman- love this whole look tots much- easy breezy..

http://monseratdelucca.com/shop/bags/totes/ben-bro.html

Springspiration: The Talented Tory Burch channels youthful wanderlust

Good morning, Tuesday. It's a chilly but pretty day here in the NYC and I'm listening to Peter Tosh and thinking about Miami. I'm not sure what's up with me this am, but I had a real hankering for Miami, and I'm very excited that I'll be there for a shoot next week. As many of you know me and Miami were not exactly besties, but there were lovely and amazing things there- my gorgeous waterfront apartment, my tree lined drive to work, the way the sun feels there and that incredible light. Once in a great while, I need a little taste. I'm glad I'm getting one next week. I think most of all I'm excited to get out of Dodge for a few days. I need some otherness.

In other news, as you get yourself good and ready for Spring, it's key to get some inspiration. I got an email this am from Tory Burch and I gotta say I'm feeling jazzed by what she's doing. It's true that if I see another girl in those Reva flats, I may go white walker on them, but Tory has an incredible, referential eye that I truly admire. Her styling and mix of boho/prep/classic are incredibly fun to look at, and wearing them would probably be equally amazing.I am obsessing over her looks for Spring- think Ruth Orkin photograph of young ingenues in Rome (see above)- or arty and wayward exchange students abroad in a Woody Allen film or PYTs on the set of "The Talented Mr. Ripley".

 

 These are clothes for summer travel and adventure, when the day quickly turns into night and when time is lost wandering in a museum or sitting in a cafe. I am hearting all the knee length looks, the combo of red and cream, and that yellow dress is kind of everything. I adore that blue tie dye skirt, and that length is just so pretty- adore how she is doing so much knee length- very pretty and demure for lazy summer days and very in tune with the Gatsby moment we're currently loving in fashion. But my fav piece I've seen is neither skirt, top, or dress. It's the Ambrosia sandal. Because even though I'm not one for fussy clothes, I'm definitely one for a frilly shoe- and these are a fantastic way to bring a bit of flair into the warmer months. They're just fabulous and that's that.

I'm simply having a Tory moment and you're going to have to live with it. Whether her stuff works on me is another story, but how can you not love these pieces? Bravo, Tory, for another excellent collection for girls with wanderlust and a bit of a boho/classic/Wes Anderson filled spirit. Cause that's what's up this eclectically chic Tuesday in the 212. XO

Spring lookbook below:

http://www.toryburch.com/shop-by-look/newarrivals-lookbook,default,sc.html

April Fools and an Eileen Fisher harem pant

Good day, Monday. It's pretty here in the city and though I missed my hubs this weekend who was in the throes of yet another new business pitch (agency life), I had loads of fun with a bestie of mine who just moved three blocks away. Though there's no substitute for one's husband, a gay man will always do, and very well. Add that to the fact that I so enjoyed everyone's updates about Easter and all the fun family time they had, so not a bad weekend even though I was more solo than usual.

So check it. I know it's April Fool's Day and such but I'm not kidding on this next item I'm coveting- the Eileen Fisher harem pant. Yea, Eilleen Fisher. She of my most intrepid growing older and dressing like it fears. But seeing these in a big ad in the NY Times yesterday had me at extreme drop crotch. I mean...they're fabulous.

I haven't tried them on and it appears they come in a silk crepe as well as a jersey version, but I can't think of a pant that screams weekend more than these homies. And as man repellant as a hammer pant can be, I can't help but fantasize about wearing this with perhaps a light leather jacket, tank, and sandals, or with a linen blazer and simple tank and a small wedge. I've always been a bit of a gypsy, so why should I not wear a pant suited for a harem? 

And while I went on their site yesterday to check out these little genie like wonders, I  was impressed with how many cool things there were to wear- everything from silk track pants to peplum jackets to some cute little shoes. Sweet Lord, what's happening to me?  Suddenly the brand I've joked about all of these years is looking tots cute. Are ya pranking me Eileen cause it's April Fool's Day or do I need to give you a bona fide chance to grace my closet?

Regardless, I want these pants to loaf about in. To travel in. To have breakfast at the beach in. Yes please. True they may have a whole lot of room in them for those of us looking for something or somewhere to hide, but then again, with this big of a fashion statement, we're not really hiding from anything or anyone, are we? Ooh and I may take that little striped sweater too as pictured above. Love. But it's really all about the pants.

Sure this is a trend that already trended but I still dig the ease. I'm having them. You should too. But what I really want to know is- what's with this bacon flavored Scope? Is that shit for real? No way, right?

Cause that's what's up this not fooling anyone kind of Monday in the 212. X to the O.

http://www.eileenfisher.com/EileenFisher/collection/ShopByCategory/Pants.jsp?...

Taking a look at leopard

Good afternoon, Thursday. This week is just fuh-lyinggggg...

So I'm looking through the WSJ today and reading all about how stripes are a thing- they always are for Spring and though I am a huge fan, I'm def more nuts over leopard. I know leopard is not traditionally a Spring thing, but man do I just love an animal print of any kind. I've talked on this before but I was paging through an awesome book I have on French style (Paris Street Style by Isabelle Thomas and Frederique Veysset) and became obsessed with all things growly today while looking at pics of French chicks doing the leopard thing. It's sexy, rock and roll, edgy, and classic all at once.

So I'm sharing some of my fav pics of chicy chicks rocking it- obviously Kate Moss is the master of all things cat, but Emanuelle Alt of French Vogue does it really well in the white jeans, black sweater goodness with leopard coat. And if you're worried about feeling like Catwoman (not sure why this would worry you, ps), just do a leopard accent like a belt, a shoe, or a bag. Animal prints are good for the soul, and that's that. And it's one look that is soley a female enterprise- men can't really do leopard unless they want to look like Austin Powers or a Sex Pistols roadie. Please don't.

Now go forth and rock some leopard or at least get inspired by some of these glammy gals shown here. Cause that's what's up this meowish Thursday in the 212. Welcome to the jungle, baby. XO

Maven Pick: Kate Spade Saturday nails it for Spring/Summer Style

Good late morning, Wednesday. Oh, New York. You have my attention with this sunny weather and hints of warmth. Spring time in New York is a magical time when we freshen our pedis, buff ourselves senseless so as to wear bare legs, and enjoy the attention of all the men in the city who look like kids in candy stores as soon as we reveal our limbs and pop on a little sundress or something light and not so winter armoured. Puffer coats not exactly figure flattering now are they? 

Which is why today's post has to be about Kate Spade's new line Saturdays, which has been getting more buzz than the first warm day post winter. I've always had a bit of a love/hate with Kate Spade- a huge fan of her early advertising and branding and admirer of her ability to create such an enormous brand and vibe. Needless to say, I'd work for Andy Spade for free. He's pretty much transcendent in my book and his efforts for cool retail like the J. Crew men's shop in Tribeca is sort of too much to take, in a good way. 

But alas, Kate and Andy sold the company in their polite way (there was most likely a thank you note when they cashed it all in, handwritten naturally) and then the brand became what the brand became. Kate's thing was always a hyper femmy/girly thing- clearly not my style, not to mention all the horrid knockoffs of Kate Spade bags on Canal Street. In my mind, once it's been knocked off to that degree, I'm done.

But then this little Saturdays thing happens, and it's super terrific. It's preppy, poppy, girly, tomboyish, and cool all at once. It's way more Lena Dunham than Carrie Bradshaw, and the line just feels so damn fresh. Oh, and the prices are totally reasonable so brands like Club Monaco and some of the spendier High Street types best watch their backs. I have a feeling this new offering from Kate and co is going to be a rollicking success. So if you don't have time to look at their site and shop it like it's hot, never fear. I've picked the best pieces. I am a huge devotee of black and white in the summer months- it's always chic and graphic and super cool. Black and white figures very prominently in the whole collection, as a signature, and I am all about it. The looks are modern and retro all at once- and I want a bunch of pieces now, now, now.

 I am just obsessed with the little cutout dress below (wear nothing underneath it and look sexy and cute all at once- with some flat sandals and a tan), that black and white optic sheath is calling my name for weekends in the sun with big sunglasses and some sneaks or flops, I adore the basic black v neck paired with those amazing print pants, a fabulous sheathy top with that divine print and some bright shorts, that darling little sheath dress and perfect LBD, cute lil black shorts, and that modern trench in either electric blue or black. LOVE. Those pants are the cutest ever wtih flat Greek sandals and those slippers are fab as are those tortoise shades- but my fav of all? The black and white beach blanket, which will look lovely for those long afternoons in Montauk or wherever you go to get sand in you sandwich.

As I mentioned, the prices are pretty great and the clothes suit the young and the young at heart- and who doesn't like to feel like it's permanently a Spring/Summer Saturday anyway? Fantastic stuff- hoping you're all going to check it out and I myself am picking that beach blanket as my first Summer must have. Cause that's what's up this always thinking of Saturday kind of Wednesday on the isle. Have a black and white kind of day.XO

http://www.saturday.com/