Back To Basics

• When all else fails you can always rely on the comfort of your favorite jeans and a white T. No matter what kind of curve ball the economy throws your way if you have good foundation nothing can sway a hot girl off her game. You can wear jeans and a t-shirt so many different ways; just add flats or sneakers for a casual look or add boots or heels to dress things up. All you need is a good fit, great attitude, and cute accessories (with a little imagination you just might have everything you need right at home).
  photo left: Favorite Stretch Crewneck T $10, Gap
  photo right: Low Rise Bootcut Jeans $59, Gap

Jeans
Jeans are an investment so try on different brands and styles to find the right fit for you (be strong, dressing room lighting can be tough on a girl's self esteem). Here's a few of my faves:

• Bootcut- Every girl needs a pair of jeans in this classic cut for maximum versatility.



• Skinny- More of a trend (that I adore) jean that works with most of the season's looks.



• Wide Leg- Also a trendier style that works well to camouflage hips and larger thighs. The high waist look is really popular (love it-you never have to flash a thong again) but beware of this look if you're short waisted. Also, if you're petite watch the dramatic large flares, you're frame may drown in that look.
  
  
  Avedon Skinny Jean $137.20, Citizens of Humanity. Pair with just about any hot shoe (stiletto sandals, pumps, ballet flats) or easily slide into a boot.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Doll High Waisted Flare Jean $187, J Brand. Cute with a skinny belt for a retro look. Wear this with this seasons sky high heels, or Spring's Platform or Wedge.
  
  
  
  

White Ts
White T-shirts are repeat buys that you usually update often (seasonally) to keep that clean white look so I wouldn't spend a lot on them (just worry about comfort and fit). No wardrobe is complete without these:

• Crewneck- The classic look.



• V-neck- Still classic but a little sexier. This fit also works better for larger busts than the crew neck (I wouldn't know anything about that).
  


• Wildcard- Anything goes. It's still a white T but can be anything from oversized, off- the-shoulder or re-constructed.

Sheer Rib Short-Sleeve Tunique $36, American Apparel. You can do a lot with this cut-belt it or wear loose (Flashdance style)over skinny jeans. American Apparel claims you can wear it as a dress (good luck with that). I think this screams for long, layered necklaces.

Baby Rib Cutout T $14, American Apparel. This sexy T has a deep V in front and the back. It provides a sleeker look to tuck in with high waisted wide leg jeans and platforms or pair with skinny jeans stilettos, and a pair of shoulder grazing earrings.

Bored with these Ts? Create your own with this ultra cool do-it-yourself book written by two hot fashionistas I know.





T-Shirt Makeovers: 20 Transformations for Fabulous Fashions $16.50, Amazon.

Live In Silk

One of Spring's most popular trends (besides the pajama trend-which I hate) is a very soft silhouette using beautiful, feminine silk. Be on the lookout for flowy silk blouses, relaxed pants and breezy dresses. I must admit I love silk (not as much as my dry cleaner) but for some reason I always feel fragile and on edge when I wear it. But, I'm a sucker for beautiful things and doubt I'll be able to resist. We are in a recession though so I'll be checking to see if any of this stuff is washable (it can happen). How do you feel about silk?


(photo right: 60's inspired Ruffle Front Silk Dress $300, Tibi)

Silk Playsuit $90, Top Shop (machine washable-I knew I'd find something)



















Asymmetrical Silk Top $125, Banana Republic

Silk pants $198, Diane Von Furstenberg.

Pair silk pants with a simple tank, light cropped jacket and heels.

I plan on adding both these to my wish list on Shop It To Me and waiting for these bad boys to go on sale!

Cropped Silk Pants $175, DKNY

Express has a pair similar to these for $19.99 with an extra 20% off online (limited sizes)-Check it out!

Where Do I Find...?: The Mall Survival Cheat Sheet

You've got a mission to find [INSERT ITEM HERE- i.e. a hot date outfit, interview suit] problem is you've got one hour. You certainly don't have time to idly drop by every store looking for the item. Don't worry, smart girls have a plan and you're smart (at least that's what your mother told you).

Where Do I Find...?

TRENDY STUFF

Urban Outfitters -Look no further for on the edge urban looks. You can find the hottest casual dresses, jumpsuits, hats and affordable costume jewelry here. (photo right: Kimchi onesie $68)

H&M -Find hot off the runway looks with prices for the real world. They house anything from a date night dress to the coolest tops.

Zara -Stop here for of the moment designs and designer replicas. The price point is a little higher here than ($60-$80 for a average dress) H & M but I think they offer casual as well as high style dressier items (and interesting shoes).

CLASSIC STYLES

J. Crew -A safe haven for sweater sets, sheath dresses, and statement jewelry fit for a first lady.

Banana Republic-You can always find a great pair of slacks, a classic dress or merino wool sweater.

BASICS

The GAP -You can't go wrong for t-shirts, sweats, and basic denim.

Old Navy-Go here for the same (but cheaper) t-shirts, sweats, and basic denim (I do prefer GAP when I comes to the favorites like the denim jacket).

H & M- This trendmaster also is the place you can always find a basic v-neck sweater, endless t-shirts, accessories and good lingerie.

Abercrombie & Fitch- Not just for teens. There's always a supply of well made tanks, tees, and cargo pants if you can get past the overwhelming smell of the cologne in every store (I personally can't get past the smell without the start of an allergy attack).

WORK ESSENTIALS

Banana Republic - You can't lose shopping for the last minute interview suit. They offer all the essentials: great button down shirts, and endless pant and skirt suit options that add a little more style than your basic suit. (photo right:

Sleek suit: blazer $150, pants: $79, satin blouse $69)

J. Crew - J. Crew is always worth a visit when shopping for work. You can always find great business casual options (button downs, cashmere sweater sets), and a couple of suit options (I always find a better selection of suits offered online).

EVENING/SPECIAL OCCASION WEAR

Macy's- When in a rush for special occasion wear it's best to rely on a better department store. They usually have a section dedicated to solely to dresses. You also have a better chance of catching it on sale (Macy's has it's sale of the year about once a week).

Bloomingdale's- Ditto. (photo right: Cynthia Steffe "Stephanie" Dress $247.50)

AFFORDABLE SWIMWEAR

Victoria's Secret- The secret is out, you can now get swimwear in the stores (they already offer a huge variety of suits online). Short on time? You can run in and get a cute, well made suit for 60 bucks (online deals are even better).

Target- Anyone who knows me know I can't get enough of Target. While they offer a large supply of swimsuits suits, I usually count on them for cute (and cheap) cover ups.

Did I miss anything?

Tear Da' Club Up!

It's Friday! The weekend is officially here and I want to make sure it gets off to a great start. As you're getting ready to head out and paint the town red (or paint the couch full of comfortable pillows) you may need some mood music. I know just the thing. Enjoy!




Tsk, tsk how quickly we forget...Don't act like you weren't feelin' this video (we can't just turn our backs on MC Hammer). This not doing it for you? What's your go-to get fired up music?

Sneak Peak at Fashion Week

Yes, it's true. We're barely getting through Winter and the fashion masters have already created things to add to our perpetual shopping lists for Fall '09 (a girl just can't catch a break). Good thing I haven't finished pining for Spring '09 collections. It's always safe to look, most of these collections won't be available in stores until late Summer. Here are some of the looks hot off the NYC runways. Are any of these looks going on your wish list ?

(Photo Right: Marc Jacobs Fall '09)

Marc Jacobs

Marc Jacobs used a lot of color and structural shapes. Check out the entire collection here.

William Rast

Justin Timberlake's line puts a little extra effort into denim. Mr. JT may be taking a style cue from one of his idols Michael Jackson. The jacket and zippers are giving me a nostalgic Bad feel. But wait there's more...view the entire collection here.

Is it weird that I love this vest (I actually have a similar version of this that I bought last fall for $40)?

Who's bad?

Chris Benz

This dress has a cute vintage-y feel. I like this line. It has a lot of items that will do just the trick to brighten up a gloomy Fall day. See for yourself here .

Tracy Reese

Tracy used a lot of feminine florals and color for her Fall '09 collection. Florals were a popular trend this Winter. I do love the glasses (very sexy librarian don't you think?). Here's the entire collection.

Daryl K

I'm still a maniac for a jumpsuit. Apparently they'll be back for Fall '09. Hey, the repeat trend doesn't bother me at all (1. I love them 2. I don't have to buy a thing).

Look who else thinks the furry vest is cool (I'm going to be forced to dust mine off) and layered on top of the beloved pantsuit-hot! Check the rest of what Daryl K has to offer here.

WWLD: What Would Lincoln Do?

Happy President's Day (remember, that is why you have the day off )! I know last time Abraham Lincoln was wearing his famous top hat it didn't work out very well for him. But I've been thinking, hats really add a special touch. What else can elevate a simple white tank and jeans to the next level with such ease? It's easy to pull together a look by just adding a cute hat and hot shoes (I believe we have rock star status). But if Lincoln were here I have no doubt he would probably tell you "hats are cool, maybe you should get one too."

Wide Wale Corduroy Fedora $33.60, Lauren by Ralph Lauren. I think the Fedora is the modern version of the top hat (the top hat would never work with my hair). And look it has a feather (so Rat Pack, I bet Sammy Davis Jr. would be proud)!

Spillane Straw Fedora $28, Urban Outfitters. Where's my Cuban cigar?

Pinstriped Fedora $40, Grace Hats.
The brown stripes add a little twist. This would be great with slacks and stiletto pumps.

Brownhill Fedora $30, Puma. Sporty and ultra cool in White. Pair with an all Black ensemble.

P.S. I Love...

In honor of Valentine's Day what better time to talk about random things that make me all warm and fuzzy inside.

1. Puppies ( I did warn you by saying this was random didn't I?) Photo by Ann Gordon
   




2. Good food that's easy to make. Wow your sweetie with this meal from the Barefoot Contessa.
   




3. A relaxing massage. Why not book yourself an appointment? I love the bare bones approach to spas like The Massage Company; get a great massage and go home. They skip all the pomp and circumstance of the spa facilities and you pay about $40 bucks for the massage. Then go home and take a warm bath using a delectable scented oil like this one from Jo Malone (I think it can do double duty as a massage oil just in case you want treat someone special). Lime Basil & Mandarine Bath Oil $60
   
   
   




4. Movies for us girls. I must admit, I can't get enough of movies that involve a little romance, a lot of laughs (and an occasional tear) and are high on fashion (i.e. Sex & the City, The Devil Wears Prada-love them). Sex and the City's style chief, Patricia Field, is on board for the latest movie catering to fashionistas, Confessions of a Shopaholic, opening today.
   
   
   

Have a happy Valentine's Day cupcakes!

Michelle Obama Snags the VOGUE Cover

Look for the fabulous Mrs. O on the cover of Vogue's March issue. America can't get enough of the First Lady and why should the fashion world be any different? It's no secret that Michelle's loves fashion and does a great job putting a twist on classic style. But there's no need to pay Jason Wu to whip up a designer gown for you when you can rely on some of Michelle's more accessible favorites like J. Crew. You can conjure up the spirit of Michelle Obama in your own closet.





The Classic Sheath Dress: A staple in Michelle's wardrobe in a color that pops.
Super 120s Jayne Dress $180, J. Crew

The Sweater Set: A go to favorite for Michelle. She's not afraid to take off the conservative cardigan sweater to reveal her well toned arms.
Cashmere Jackie Cardigan $99.99 and Cashmere Shell $49.99, J. Crew

Bold Accessories: The First Lady knows to never underestimate the impact of a statement necklace or a great belt.

Pearl Cluster Necklace $125, J.Crew

Karma Necklace $100, J. Crew

Go Ahead, Get The Brazilian

...Shoe that is! Brazil is known for it's hot beaches and sexy barely there bikinis, but they also churn out some fabulous, high quality shoes. I think it's hard to find the balance of great (sexy, high heeled) shoes and comfort. But I do have a couple pairs of shoes that I absolutely love that have one thing in common, they were made in Brazil. Brazilian women practically live in heels (and thongs for that matter) and we can too (just the heels please). Who doesn't want to look the part of a sexy Brazilian bombshell all while being extremely comfortable? So don't forget to check the label for quality leather and craftsmanship, great style and comfort; sign me up Brazil. Who's coming with me?


right photo: Aaliyah Sandal $292, Pour La Victoire. These come in a variety of colors; but Electric Blue nubuck, heaven.



















Paige Motorcycle Sandal $292, Pour La Victoire. Black not bold enough for you, these come in green too.
















Fen Pump $316.90, L.A.M.B. These pumps are so versatile they can go with anything from pantsuits to mini dresses.

















Tamika Slingback $316.90, L.A.M.B















Greer Sandal $175, Corso Como














Pollyana Boot $202.98, Corso Como. Not exactly a sexy heel but a girl needs and cool boot too.












From my personal collection: past season Pour La Victoire sandals (left) and Corso Como booties (right). Both super comfortable and hot (I literally get stopped constantly on the street when I wear the Corso Como booties)!

Ladies Listen Up: He's Just Not That Into You!

He's Just Not That Into You, the catch phrase made famous by an episode on Sex and The City (my favorite series of all time) then turned into a bestselling book is now a movie, opening today! I actually got the book for a birthday gift four or five years ago (uh, thanks girl-I think). I was a little uncomfortable and borderline offended but, boy did I have a great time reading it. I'm actually looking forward to the movie (don't mess this up actors, director or script writer). The best part is, this is a perfect excuse for a girl's night out! Check out the movie's site to find out more and take some fun little quizzes (perfect opportunity to look busy at work). So get your girlfriends and go see it this weekend and let me know what you think. Worst case scenario: the movie's bad but you got your girls to have drinks with afterwards.

Here's the book. It's a good read although it's not rocket science. But, it will make you think and possibly examine what's going on in your relationships (sometimes the truth hurts-ouch).

It's Not Easy Being Green

Trying to be kind to the environment can be a challenge. But trying to be kind to the environment and being fashionable may seem impossible. But don't give up, there are some options for the eco-conscious available out there. But keep in mind being Green may not come cheap (that's why you buy on sale). I found a website, The Green Loop , that does a nice job editing women's and men's clothing and accessories without sacrificing style (no need to look like you should be barefoot and eating granola).

Tiered Kelleigh FLIP Dress $170, Lara Miller. Same dress, different style. Wear this dress a variety of ways: One day wear as a cowl neck and the next FLIP it to an off-the-shoulder dress (as you can see in the pic). You can help save the environment and local jobs. This 100% bamboo dress was made here in the USA (doesn't it feel great to be a good Samaritan?).

Allison Dress $121, Sublet. This dress has a hidden kangaroo pocket (whatever that is- I am a sucker for pockets though) and is made of organic cotton and bamboo.

Women's Slim Leg Jeans $74, Good Society. Cute skinny jeans in 100% organic cotton. The jeans have a low rise in the front but a higher rise in the back (organic jeans that save the environment and the person behind you from seeing your thong).

Does Green make a difference in your fashion choices?