Ready For Combat!

I know I should be shot for thinking about boots when it's this hot out (and seriously it's hot-try 100 degrees). But we fashion forward know the hottest new fashions are always displayed way before their time (I will be hitting Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale tomorrow for the new Fall stuff for a fraction of the price-wish me luck). The one item I can't wait to get my hands on are a pair of rugged, combat boots. I think they're the perfect addition to pair with skinny jeans, cargos or last year's leather leggings (I'm still in love with my mine, you'd have to pay me to stop wearing them). If all else fails, in a dark alley they're probably heavy enough to be a good weapon.

Mia Limited Edition Combat $189

The gray suede texture on these boots give combat boots and more pulled together look.
Nine West Peroxy $119

The Evolution of Exercise

Lately, I can't flip through a magazine, walk past a store or watch a television show without being saturated with the images of these toning/fitness shoes (OMG, a commercial for the new Reebok toning shoes just came on as I type). What on earth is going on? Joe Montana is all over these Skechers commercials looking like a fool endorsing their new Shape Ups (although he probably feels a lot better about himself after receiving his endorsement checks). If my man ever walked into the room in those shoes Joe Montana is pushing, I would crawl under a table and die (wow there's that Reebok commercial again-I'm not kidding). Honestly, those Reebok ads almost sucked me in. Then I thought to myself, "Where the hell am I going to wear those shoes?" Maybe you New York City girls can get some use out of them. Looks like it's going to be another set of lunges for me.

Reebok Easy Tone Reinspire Walking Shoe $124.95

Shape ups by Skechers Action Packed Walking Shoe $99.95

The Compromise: Fit Flops (or most variations of a exercise flip flop i.e. Tone ups, etc). I think I could actually get away with wearing flip flops around the pool or the beach without looking like a freak.

FitFlop Electra Sandal $59.95

If I Didn't Have To Eat For The Next Two Months...Christian Louboutin in Los Angeles

I have a secret-Monday just isn't my favorite day (big surprise). Nothing like a little day dreaming or wishful thinking to make a Monday fly right by. If I didn't have to worry about pesky little things like living expenses (you know a place to lay my head at night, and stuff like eating) I would certainly go out and buy these pumps. That's right, I'd walk right into the Christian Louboutin store on Robertson and buy these shoes and have Christian Louboutin sign them himself. These are a classic Mary Jane pump with a sexy twist (a sky high heel and modern platform). Perfect if I ever want to pull off a sexy librarian stripper look (you never know).

Christian Louboutin Relika Platform Mary Jane Pump $835

But I you do have a pair of Christian Louboutins laying around the house, or are in the market to buy a new pair, the designer himself (yes, The Christian Louboutin) will be in store to greet you and even sign a pair this Wednesday. Go check him out at

Christian Louboutin

650 N. Robertson Blvd

West Hollywood

(310) 247-9300

http://www.christianlouboutin.com/

Scary Style: Fall 2010 Trends

I'm I the only person frightened by these boots? There's something a little scary about taking Fall 2010's upcoming trend on fur trimmed accessories to the next level (Style.com's accessories editor seems to think they're the best thing since sliced bread) . I have nothing against a little fur but, do we have to wear replicas of a horse's head as boots? And the ankle boots/furry hooves, I can't even go there. I bet a small child can have nightmares just looking at these shoes. It probably doesn't make it any better that both of these shoes will likely cost you a month's mortgage (and I'm talking about a month of NYC, San Francisco, or LA mortgage). Oh Fashion, sometimes you just go too far!

left photo: Yves Saint Laurent Suede Boot with Fur Trim. Courtesy of Style.com

right photo: Bruno Frisoni Furred Ankle Boot. Courtesy of Style.com

Girls Gone Global

Well girls, Spring has officially sprung and I absolutely love the tribal/global trend. It's so easy to pull off the latest in Spring Break style with the right accessories. These accessories pull off a look that is so carefree, relaxed and simply exotic. Okay, now I want to on a vacation (Morrocco anyone?).

Torn by Ronny Kobo Gypsy Sandal $47.50












Big Buddha Woodstock Tye Dye Bag $90






















Chocolat Blu Noa Sandal $78























Diane Von Furstenberg Nancy Small Shopper $185

Sam Edelman Dawson Sandal $129

Pump Perfection

Lately, I've been on a search for the perfect classic pump. It's proven to be a lot harder than I thought until I saw these. These shoes have all the classic elements of a basic pump but add the edgy ankle strap and you can go from day to night or conservative to sexy in a snap. The key is the ankle strap is removable so the possibilities are endless. Now if I can just work on the price (come on Jimmy Choo work with me). Are they worth the splurge? I might just have to stalk these for a couple of months and see what happens.


Jimmy Choo Carter Ankle Strap Pump $745

Kick It In Khaki: Part II

I know I went MIA last week (I was so swamped with work I didn't have a minute to breathe), but now I'm back with full force. Okay, so where was I? Oh, the natural khaki palette is fresh for Spring but feel free to spice it up with bright accessories. Don't be afraid to kick it up a notch!

Rory Beca "Monte Carlo Wrap Dress" $216.

Start with neutrals then add on bright colors as you go.

Make any neutral red hot with this wide leather waist belt.

See By Chloe Knot Belt $265

Brighten up your look with warm yellow. The crossbody bag is very popular for Spring (your back will thank you). This one's a crossbody or a clutch you decide.

The Sak "Silverlake Convertible Crossbody Clutch" $139

This pastel multi-colored heel can be paired up with anything from dresses to rolled up khaki pants.

Betsey Johnson "Lavant" $190

Meet Me Half Way: These boots really compromise

Happy Monday all (I know, happy Monday is such a serious contradiction)! Am I the only one sick of cold, wet weather? The sun actually came out this weekend. No overcast or clouds, just blue skies and bright sun. I was so excited I rushed out to get into the sun at last without a coat; and bam it hit me (the cold air that is), it's still Winter. So it's not exactly time to throw on a sundress, but I think I can get away with these. I feel peep toe boots are Winter's compromise to meet Spring half way.


Alexander McQueen Leather Peep Toe Boots $1150. And if your toe can't handle the cold, just throw on a pair of tights.

Ski Lodge Chic

Let's face it, it's cold. Wrap up in vibrant color and the warmest accessories around. Who says you have to hit the slopes to be this cool?

The North Face "5 Boroughs" Insulated Jacket $99
This jacket is amazingly thin but extremely warm. Note: Although she may look cute in the bikini bottoms, by no means is this an endorsement to forgo wearing pants.

These are Uggs on steroids with real goat hair. More fur, more fun.
Pajar Boots Davos Black $350

Tory Burch Rabbit Fur Trim Duck Boot $295
I know these are a little Lumber Jackish, but the fur is sooo decadent. I think these would be warm, comfortable and really cute with skinny jeans and
an oversized button down.

Holiday Hot

I know it may be cliche' to be draped in red from head to toe just because it's the holidays, but it's such a beautiful and vibrant color I'm not even going to try to resist. I completely understand not wanting to be yet another girl at the party wearing a red dress. So, can we at least compromise and stay festive through red accessories?

Bring any basic outfit up a couple of notches by adding these glam shoes.
Betsey Johnson "Law" Pump $149.95

I really like this fancy little number (I know, I might be obsessed with all things sequins). Offset the femininity and dressiness of this purse with a more masculine outfit like a tuxedo styled pantsuit.
MAXX NEW YORK Reversed Sequin Round Bag With Chain Strap $58.90

The ultimate holiday accessory: the red lip. Try a universally flattering shade like M.A.C.'s Viva Glam (shown) or Russian Red lipstick.

A Chorus Line: Vegas Showgirl Style

We may be in a recession but everywhere I turn I see sparkle and shine. Everything looks better when you add a little flash!


photo right: Drapey sequin jacket $168, Eight Sixty (pair this with leather for a dramatic night look).














Badgley Mischka Platinum Open Toe "Humbie" Pump $200












Badgley Mischka Platinum "Hart" Pump $190

Pair any of these pieces with basics (i.e. a black suit, jeans and a T, little black dress) and create a little razzle dazzle of your own.





Note: If you think all this sparkle is getting out of hand, wait to you see my Halloween costume (consider yourselves warned).

Straight Laced

No these aren't your grandfather's long lost church shoes, they're one of the latest fashion trends-the oxford. Hey, the weather is cooling off (well it will eventually), and soon you may want to wave goodbye to your fluorescent pink pedicure and possibly give your feet a rest from all the stilettos (your calves and future bunions will thank you). The oxford is the perfect partner to Fall's menswear trend. Sport a casual look with a relaxed button down and straight leg trousers, skinny jeans and a t-shirt or super preppy with a pencil skirt and tights. As long as you add some type of feminine accent (i.e. "hi, I'm really a girl" red lipstick), very cute! Yet another item I have to restrain myself from buying (operation "Genise buys absolutely no clothing for the entire month of September" going 18 days strong). Enjoy your weekend!
above photo: Cole, Rood & Haan Co. "Jitney" Oxford $350

Steve Madden "Tuxedo" Flat $69.95

DKNYC "Hera" Oxford $149. These actually aren't flat but still a oxford none the less. I love the color combination of these shoes and would pair them with black patterned legwear and a skirt.

Supersize Me

Finally, you can say yes to that second helping of dessert and still be in fashion. There's a new trend leaning toward oversized clothing. I'm talking about cozy slouchy sweaters and long and relaxed cardigans to be exact. This look is best served when paired with a fitted bottom (i.e. leggings, skinny jeans, a fitted pencil skirt). Let's all rejoice in fashion's answer to the fat day. above photo: Knit Chunky Cape $100, Topshop


You know I was just kidding about that second helping of dessert right?










Knitted Chunky Long Cardigan $100, Topshop
So cozy and comfortable with leggings and boots (try ankle, knee high or over the knee looks).

Try this at home

Start with a sexy oversized sweatshirt (say hello to Flashdance Chic)...

Unisex California Fleece Big Sweatshirt $47, American Apparel

+

Add a dramatic statement necklace...
Fallon Jewelry Infinity Necklace $265

+

Super slim skinny jeans...
Goldsign Misfit Skinny Jeans $238








+

Finish the look off with a sexy pump. A classic shoe pulls together an intentionally slouchy but polished look.
Christian Louboutin Decollette 100 Jazz Pumps $595

The Monday Quick Fix

Found 'Em! Over the Knee Boots in the "see, I'm not crazy" price range.








This Fall's hottest boot has been on my wish list since June (see here), but I couldn't seriously consider purchasing them at that price. This just proves that if you have laser focus and put your mind to something you can accomplish anything (as said in the tone of the underlying message in an after school special).



Restricted Vamp Boot $110

Hello, Kitty!

The cat's out of the bag, Fall fashion is full of animal magnetism. Welcome back the old cougar favorite, animal print (and let's stick to the cat family, no zebra please). While I can't bear to cover my entire body in a leopard dress (I'd feel like I'm about to pour a dry martini then take a trip past the school yard to lure a new boyfriend), I have been known to pull out a blouse or wear a great accessory in leopard. So, it wouldn't hurt to be armed with at least one item in animal print this Fall-it's a jungle out there.

photo courtesy of Peggy Bundy's Facebook page

D&G Dolce & Gabbana Ocelot Print Chiffon Blouse $415. The sexy secretary blouse goes wild. Dress this up or down by adding a fitted blazer and dark skinny jeans or a black pencil skirt and pumps.

Don't have $400, buy this one for $49 from the Spiegel catalog here.

Betsy Johnson "Caelen" Pump $200. I love the pink sole on this shoe-fun. Throw these on and make a basic outfit pop. Anything from jeans and t-shirt, a black suit or neutral dress.

Heavy Metal

3.1 Phillip Lim Resort 2010






It's Monday and it's your time to shine (or wish it was Friday again). And speaking of shine, Metallic colors are summer's answer to neutral colors. I swear you never have to wear white shoes again if you don't want to.

Calvin Klein "Electra" Sandal $89









Three simple rules to mastering metallic:

1. Silver metallics are cooler color options that compliment lighter skin tones and tends to go better with light colors.




2. Metallics in the Gold family compliment warmer skin tones and go great with bright colors and add heat to neutrals like White.
   
   
3. Never go for head to toe metallic unless your goal is to look like a robot.

Melie Blanco Diagnal Stitch Tote $79

Report Sigature Newbury 2 Metallic Platform $190

Do You Know What Today Is?

...It's their anniversary! Today marks the first day of Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale (Nordstrom's pioneered the pre-season sale-no past season clearance sale over here). So break out your glass and let's toast to getting fall hottest new looks now and on sale (until everything goes back to full price on August 3).

right photo: Hinge Leather Motorbike Jacket $198.90 ($298 after sale)

Disclaimer-This is NOT an advertisement. I go to this sale every year. It's a great time to pick up a new Fall handbag (brand new but on sale) or pick up the one of the make-up/beauty specials available only at Nordstrom during this sale (MAC usually has a great one-good time to get a set of make-up brushes and a case for half the price). Are we clear?

Steven by Steve Madden "Bevan" Pump $119.90 ($168.95 after sale).

Michael by Michael Kors "Dessert" Shoulder Tote $298.90 (448.00 after sale)

MAC Look In A Box in "Seductress" $59.50 (Nordstrom Exclusive)