thefashionmagpie

Archive for January, 2011

Easy Pieces

In Accessories, Americana, Fresh Combos, Neutrals on January 31, 2011 at 11:27 am

Lately, I’ve been obsessing over Kate Bosworth’s easy-looking minimalist dressing style.  There’s something refreshing about her “spare” vibe — how does such constraint make such a loud statement?

{images from vogue diaries}

{And have I gone off the deep end, or does this light-wash denim jumper seem super chic on her diminutive frame?  I mean, it’s almost offensively early 90s, but she rocks it.}  Don’t worry, readers.  This little Magpie is not going to suggest that we all abandon our polished-little-lady shtick and head for acid wash and Canadian tuxedos (i.e. head to toe denim).  But I am leaning towards a similarly pared-down aesthetic now and again.  A simple blazer.  A slouchy tee and skinny jeans.  An artfully-placed scarf.  This look leans heavily on expertly tailored separates, so if you don’t have a tailor on retainer yet, you might want to start asking around.  For casual-wear, I’m thinking a loose-fitting gray raglan tee ($125, Atrizia) and some lighter-wash (or white, if weather/season/geography permits) denim skinnies:


I’d finish with some devil-may-care cool boots (Joie, on sale for $170, Bergdorf’s) — something mid-calf or shorter is de rigueur.  (Anything higher reads too calculated.)  Biker/moto boots are the go-to (and these Madewells aren’t toooo bad), but I just don’t think I’m ready to commit to that level of unbuttoned-ness:

Just.right.  Then all you need is a Celine classic flap bag (drool, drool, drool)…or something comparable — I’m also loving the YSL Chyc bag ($1,650, Saks):

But if YSL isn’t in the budget, I find these Kate Spade cross-body bags darling…especially in quirky “Hermes” orange ($295, Kate Spade):

Despite my intense desire to soup things up with loadsa jewelry, I’d stay true to the minimalista vibe with just a pair of long earrings.  I’m ob.sessed with these Janna Conners ($69, Janna Conner), which would mesh well with my more classic/refined-leaning day-to-day aesthetic as well as this more minimalista vibe:

But Kate Bosworth would probably add some House of Harlow hippie-chic danglers ($75, ShopSheBoutique):

Alternately, any of the above earrings would look perfect paired with a simple Equipment-style blouse in an unexpected, fresh color, like this inky indigo by Isabel Marant (contact Stuart & Wright to order) and some worn-in jeans (Current/Elliott has some excellently distressed styles, like this one):

Then all you need are some slouchy boots (this Chinese Laundry pair is bomb — I’m ob.sessed. — on sale for $99, Chinese Laundry):

Round it out with a pair of aviators and the It bag du jour, Alexander Wang’s Rocco duffle ($1,195, MyTheresa) — P.S. my sister owns this bag in black and I die over it every time I see it.  She received it after interning with them this past fall…seriously unfair.  {Check out the serious studs on the bottom — seriously edgy-chic.}

Alternately, layer some featherweight, longer-length tees (I adore the softness of Velvet’s line of tees) with some leggings:

Finish with some OTK boots (I’ve been drooling over the Loeffler Randall Riley all season — $825, Loeffler Randall, but ever since I spotted my Magpie Maven Kourtney Kardashian in the Chinese Laundry suede Nitro boots, I’m thinking that I might be a convert — on sale for $89, Chinese Laundry):

I’d finish it up with my blush/peach-toned blazer (mine was from from H&M  — score of the season — but the real.deal. by Stella McCartney can be found at Neiman’s for a cool $1,545) and a gray-scale leopard scarf ($68, Atrizia):

And even though restraint is the name of the game with this sort of aesthetic, a slightly edgy necklace is acceptable — I’m dying over this Kenneth Jay Lane plated piece ($300, Net-A-Porter):

Alternately, consider pairing a fishersman style sweater ($119, Jack Wills) with some army green pants, rolled up nonchalantly at the ankle (Current/Elliott, $162, Shopbop):


A pair of nude/camel colored flats (bonus points if they come in a fetching material, like these Lanvin snakeskins — on sale for $380, ShopZoe) would be the perfect add-on:

At the risk of seeming a tad matchy-matchy, I’d reach for this Marc by Marc Jacobs clutch ($328, Marc Jacobs):

…although the purist in me thinks that the J.W. Hulme mini crossbody would be the best fit ($370, J.W. Hulme):

The above bag would also look perfect paired with a slouchy nautical stripe top ($83, Net-A-Porter) and some stone/gray skinnies:

I’d finish with a gauzey scarf in an unexpected blush tone ($195, Chan Luu) and  some brown stacked-heel boots — don’t you love the tassel/roping effect on these Janet and Janets ($335, Shoes)?

Anyone else on board?!  P.S. If you’re not sure about the vibe, just remember that Jackie O. switched things up now and again, and was often seen in comparable “minimalista-chic” getups in her own time:

{Love you, Jackie.}

Lather, Rinse, Repeat.

In Accessories, Fur, Jewelry, Leopard, Neutrals, Pop of Red, Shoes, Winter Weather, Work Wear on January 25, 2011 at 11:56 am

I don’t know about you, but there are a couple of heavy hitters in my wardrobe that I absolutely could.not live without.  Some of them, like my Adam by Adam Lippes coyote fur vest, have been unexpected stars — others, like my glossy black patent Louboutins, were smart investments from the start.  While I rarely wear the same outfit twice (there’s usually at least some minor variation), I’ll share a few of my LRRs, or Lather-Rinse-Repeats.  These are the staples that define my look right.now — – those currently favored outfit combinations that see a lot of play.  For starters, I’ve been obsessed with a white voile blouse I found at Zara two seasons ago — mine has frilled cap-sleeves, but this Vanessa Bruno blouse achieves the same airy effect ($375, MyWardrobe) — paired with my blush pink blazer (mine is from H&M) and black skinnies (J. Brand):

I’ll accent with my vintage gold-and-crystal flower earrings (comparable to these — $190, Jordann Jewelry) and my Malene Birger statement necklace ($70, TheOutnet):

And then, depending on the time of day, I’ll either add my black suede booties (mine are by Tory Burch, but I saw and drooled over these Moschinos while at Sassanova last weekend — on sale for $198, Moschino):

For daytime, I’ll rotate in a patterned flat.  I tend towards a pair of Burberry novacheck ballets (I like the way the beige of the flat and the dusty rose of the jacket play off of each other), but I’d wear something like these blush-accented snakeskin flats (about $250, Pretty Ballerinas) in a flash:

Finally, I’ll finish with a chain-handled quilted bag like this Lanvin “Amalia” ($1,490, Barney’s), and I’m off:

Another go-to?  My coyote fur vest by Adam Lippes (an amaze-balls find on Gilt Group — it originally cost close to $1,000, and I scored it for closer to $300! — the one below is by Haute Hippie, $1,890, Jades24), which I pair with my nude silk blouse (on sale for $130, Loeffler Randall) and my skinnies (my favorites are by Paige):

I tuck them into greige boots (and even though I already own a fab pair of sueded mid-calf ones that I found while in Italy two years ago, I kind of die over this luxe-looking but affordable pair — on sale for $59, Zara):

The heel height is killer.  I finish with a pop-of-red tote (isn’t this one gorgeous?! — $979, Stella Filante):

As for jewelry — with an un-collared neckline like the blouse above, I always lean towards a delicate chain necklace.  Sometimes I’ll layer on a couple of different ones, but my favorites are by the brand Dogeared ($40 apiece, Dogeared).  I’ve collected/received a couple over the past few years, including the two below:

I’ll top it off with some solid gold earrings ($60, JennyBird) and an oversized pearl/moonstone ring (Alexis Bittar, $245, Nordstrom):

I’ve also been ob.sessed with pairing crisp oxford-inspired tunics (the one below is by Steven Alan — $248, Steven Alan — but I’ve stocked up on some amazingly affordable ones at J. Crew) with black leggings and textured brown low-edge boots (on sale for $476, Loeffler Randall):

I like to wear my oversized wood bead necklace with this — it looks something like this handmade Brazilian find (on sale for $30, Gingawear):

And then I finish with my Louis Neverfull and a cherry red wool jacket ($600, John Lewis):

Since I spend the majority of my week in the office, my work duds are in heavy rotation.  My go-to workerbee outfit?  A patterned blouse (like this Tucker find — $270, Net-A-Porter) tucked into a black pencil skirt:

I’ll finish with black opaque tights (it’s freezing in these parts…) and my black Louboutins ($595, Net-A-Porter):

I tend to class it up with a pair of seed pearl cluster earrings by Kenneth Jay Lane that I found at a vintage shop, but these Carolee clusters would do the job nicely as well (on sale for $42, Carolee):

And then I’ll add a stack of bangles to finish the look ($345 for set of three, Dannijo):

I’m also often found in an oversized oxford-style tunic (on sale for $199, Calypso), which I pair with black cigarette pants (mine are the J. Crew Minnie — $79, J. Crew):

I finish with leopard flats (Lanvin, on sale for $315, ShopZoe):

And then layer a cozy duster atop ($335, Seaton Surf):

I of course spice things up with some statement jewelry — this Ranjana Khan necklace ($650, Kirna Zabete) would be right up my alley:

Post-work, I am nearly always in a pair of leggings and either a plaid shirt or an oversized, chunky knit sweater.  I can’t get enough of the latter.  I know it’s sort of MK/Ashley Olsen, but I like the way they exaggerate my petite stature.  My bestie and I have been drooling over this Malene Birger sweater cape ($435), which we spotted on Olivia Palermo awhile ago — I have something somewhat similar, but without the chic texturing. I’d pair with leggings and my black Minnetonka boots ($98, Zappos):

What are your heavy hitters?!

Parle Americano

In Accessories, Americana, Fresh Combos, Pop of Red, Shoes on January 24, 2011 at 4:12 pm

After surveying the spring/summer 2011 collections, I was struck by a couple of majorly inspiring trends.  I’ve already covered two of these in some detail: minimalism, a la Celine and Chloe, and ethereal “floatiness,” a la the chiffon concoctions of J. Mendel and Donna Karan.  One I’ve not yet touched upon?  The persistence of the classic Americana aesthetic — stripes, denims, bright reds, sturdy cognacs, etc — which has enjoyed sustained influence over the past couple of seasons of runway looks, scoring major points in the SS ’11 collections of Stella McCartney, Derek Lam, and Celine, among others.

{One of my favorite Derek Lam looks — image from style.com}

{from L to R: Stella McCartney, Celine, and Derek Lam — all images from style.com}

This post is therefore all about distinctively American sportswear, that slightly androgynous, let’s-roll-up-our-sleeves-and-get-down-to-business, admirably unfussy (even downright rebellious) aesthetic.  First things first: I’ve been obsessing over deep blue gingham check for some time now, and I keep gravitating towards its vibrancy when I open my closet in the morning.  I’d pair a classic blouse style (AKA New York, $148, LesNouvelles) tucked into some wide-leggers (gasp!) and adorn with an unexpected heavy statement piece (love this Suzanna Dai style — $365, Suzanna Dai):

I’d finish with these too-good-to-be-true Rupert Sanderson sandals (perfectly architectural — $860, ShopSavannahs):

And an oversized clasp-lock clutch ($94, ASOS) along with a wrist-ful of leather bangles (around $185 apiece, Fendi):

I’d top it all off with a classic Penfield parka (love the buffalo check lining — and it’s on sale for $140, Penfield):

Something about the high fashion-ality of the necklace and the ruggedness of the utility jacket makes my heart sing.  P.S. I’ve not yet done a full investigation as to whose wide-legged denim meets my needs, but I’m intrigued by Emerson Made’s version (love the styling on that site) and Gap has run a convincing campaign that piques my interest.

Let’s be honest, though.  I’ll likely wind up snagging mine from J. Brand or Paige — I’m a denim loyalist.  I’m also loving this blouse-y silk top (on sale for $69, Madewell), which I envision tucking into a navy-and-white striped mini (APC, $137, LaGarconne) and topping with a tangly gold statement necklace ($300, Noir):



And even though they ain’t even my style, I can’t help but envision some sort of strappy, heavy-looking brown-leather pump — something like this unbelievable find from Forever 21 (que?! — $28, Forever21):

Accent with a cross-body be-tasseled leather bag (Wendy Nichol, $395, Stuart&Wright):

Also digging the bold, graphic quality of pairing a loose white voile top ($100, Built By Wendy) with some snug red jeans (Paul & Joe, $260, Net-A-Porter):

With a blank canvas like this, you know I’m dying to layer on the festive add-ons — like this ridiculous Jewels of the Kalahari piece, which is no longer available, but was hand-crafted for a limited-edition collection of 19 pieces by Botswanan artisans!  (You can read the fascinating story of how this collection came to be here.)

Do you die?  I’d add some classic American add-ons: a gleaming borrowed-from-the-boys watch ($275, Michael Kors) and a chunky polished gold ring ($95, Jules Smith):

I’d finish with some nude/blush flats (love the scalloped accent — Chloe, $425, Kirna Zabete):

Perhaps a classic Levi’s checked workshirt ($105, Industry) tucked into a navy skirt (Adam, $91, TheOutnet) is more your speed:
Finish with some striped flats ($145, Pretty Ballerinas) and a leather-accented navy tote (YSL, $675, Matches):

Then accent with some wood-effect add-ons, like a stack of bangles ($36/bangle, Econscious):

And possibly this wood-accented necklace ($15, Modcloth):

Perfectly kitschy.  I’d on a gray-denim parka jacket ($118, Madewell) in a slightly feminine cut (check out the nipped waist!), and you’re set:

The above jacket would also look lovely atop a navy-striped tee ($85, Madewell), paired with a short, fuller skirt (Paul & Joe, $195, Net-A-Porter):

I’d pair with some kicky red flats, and I’m ba.na.nas over the uber-BRIGHT geranium color of this ASOS pair (on sale for $31, ASOS):

And then all you’d need is a classic mini-leather bag — I never thought I’d be interested in the cross-body style until now ($370, J. W. Hulme):

And, finally, some basic gold circle studs ($35, Gorjana) and a stack of slim gold bangles ($110 for set, Jules Smith):

And how much do you love the idea of an easy-on denim shirtdress ($248, ShopBird)?

I’d probably layer over opaque tights during these winter months and finish with my Loeffler Randall mini-wedges ($695, Loeffler Randall) and this statement-making tote ($440, FleaBag):

This hammered coin necklace is the perfect topper (Kenneth Jay Lane, $42, TheOutnet):

It would all look excellent beneath a cropped, heathered bomber ($440, Hayden Harnett)

Finish it all off with some sporty Carrera aviators ($150, Nordstrom):

Or for work?  I am obsessed with the idea of a classic denim button-down ($32, Uniqlo) with the.skirt. of the season, by Stella McCartney (I’ve only seen this in stores — costs around $800 — but I’ve seen a comparable version at H&M of all places!):

Love.love.LOVE the skirt.  The texture is beyond.  I’d finish with these Louboutin declics in yummy brown leather ($690, Net-A-Porter) and an unexpected red suede clutch (about $250, Tila March):

I’d layer two beaded necklaces atop ($110 apiece, Pret-A-Beaute):

Ugh!  I could go on and on with these Americana styles, but I’ll cut myself off here, with one final thought: a prairie-reminiscent ditsy printed blouse (Rebecca Taylor, $245, PinkMascara) with mid-rise J. Brands ($175, Net-A-Porter) and some classic Ray Ban aviators ($139, Shopbop):

These chunky brown leather heels ($90, Heels) complete the look alongside the Chloe Marcie bag ($1,790, Net-A-Porter):

In.love.

Magpie Mini-Break

In Americana, Champagne!, Gifts!, Home Decor, Magpie Must, Olivia Palermo, Pop of Red, Shoes, Winter Weather on January 19, 2011 at 2:50 pm

So sorry for the lapse of silence over the past few days!  Many of you have asked where I’ve been and the answer is far from exciting.  (No big news here.)  After flying back from a far-too-short weekend getaway to FL (sigh), I’ve been absolutely slammed at work and chaotically busy with an unexpected visit from my baby sister and preparations for Mr. Magpie’s birthday, which is coming up this weekend.  So I’m on a self-proclaimed “magpie mini-break” until the beginning of next week.

{image from little girl, big city}

In the meantime, I’ll share what’s on my mind these days:

1.  Book wormery. I’ve been embarrassingly book-shy for the past year or so.  I attribute this lit-less-ness to the completion of my M.A. in literature, an intense two-year period that saw me reading a book or more a week while in-term.  (I wrote my thesis on Ezra Pound’s “The Cantos,” which is a sprawling 500-page mass of high modernist poetry.  I think back and wonder why I undertook such an unmanageable expanse of text as the primary focus of my studies — something more self-contained would have been more satisfying.)  Afterward, I felt as though some of my “for pleasure” reading made for an unexpectedly heavy experience, as I’d taken to over-analyzing everything and considering every spot of prose through a variety of largely un-useful critical constructs.  It’s taken me awhile to shift gears and to just enjoy.  And so I was delighted to see myself whipping through “Reading Lolita in Teheran,” which is absolutely fantastic.  It’s sharp and sophisticated, but also approachable.  At any rate, I want to be reading.  Right.now.

{image from that kind of woman}

2.  New duds. I’d been on a shopping hiatus for some time but thanks to a little Christmas spending money and the graciousness of my lovely parents, I was able to indulge a bit over the past month, snapping up a new blush-tone blazer (mine — pictured on the right — cost only $34 at H&M, while the Stella McCartney variation at left costs $1,545):

I wear mine over ivory/white blouses and lace-accented tops, skinny jeans, and printed flats, accenting with my new Malene Berger statement necklace (a surprise from Mr. Magpie!):

I also recently snagged a striped camel-and-black cotton dress that I’ve been wearing with black opaque tights and oversized earrings/necklace for casual weekend-wear.  It’s startlingly similar to this Stella McCartney style, which has been all.over.the.place:

I also snapped up a kill.er. Loeffler Randall faux-fur military-style topper (very Olivia Palermo.  Die.) that is currently en route to my apartment (and then straight onto my body):

I’ll be wearing mine with my black J. Brand skinnies and some serious heel-age, like my ultimate score of the month: a pair of pristine black lace Louboutin slingbacks that I found in my size (impossible) and scuff-free (even more impossible) at a consignment shop.  Had to buy.  Never been happier.

3.  Celebrations. I know, we just finished up the merriment of holiday season, but Mr. Magpie and I have been in a curiously festive mood the past few days, ordering Indian delivery and drinking champagne to watch the Golden Globes (we enjoyed a delicious bottle of Sofia Coppola’s Blanc de Blancs, which is what we drank while honeymooning at the Francis Ford Coppola-owned Turtle Inn resort in Belize) and then downing some raw oysters from Black Salt on Monday evening.

With Mr. Magpie’s birthday this weekend, looks like the festivities will just keep on coming…which makes me excited for opportunities to dress up and hit the town.  (Mr. Magpie is a bow-tie devotee, so he’ll likely be spotted in a celebratory variation this weekend.)

{image from cherryblossomgirl}


4.  Interiors. Just wanted to give you a sneak peek into our recently re-decorated bedroom:

Haha — yeah, right.  I clearly stole these images from LonnyMag’s new site offering: a gallery of exquisitely well-appointed interiors, searchable by room.  Absolutely adore little “nook” shots like these:

{all images from LonnyMag}

Someday…

5.  Being a domestic goddess. How Nigella of me.  But seriously — I’ve always loved baking, and I’m feeling re-inspired.  I recently made these chocolate-caramel bars topped with fleur-de-sel (Santa gave me a stack of fancy salts in my stocking), and they turned out deliciously.

On to the next — I’m thinking of trying my hand at coconut madeleines.  My sister give me a madeleine pan for Christmas a year or two ago, and it’s just waiting for its debut.

6.  Fresh-cut flowers. I always try to keep at least one bouquet of fresh blooms in the house, but now I’m dying for the first spring buds.  (So woefully far away.)

{image from encore une minute}

7.  Trashy TV. Anyone else thrilled with the array of wretched, indulgent trash currently in season?  From Jersey Shore to the return of Gossip Girl this upcoming Monday, I’m happy.

{image from keep calm}

8.  Chance of snow. I don’t know what it is, but I still entertain a gleeful, childlike excitement upon hearing of snowy weather forecasts.  Time to snuggle in with Mr. Magpie, our instant Netflix queue, and some popcorn.   (I don’t mess around with the microwave stuff anymore — I recently discovered the ease and scrumptiousness of using old-school popping corn and popping myself, on the stovetop, when I received this Williams-Sonoma sampler as a gift.  I use olive oil and season with lots of salt and fresh cracked pepper.  Yum.)

{image from encore une minute}

9.  Scrabble. I’m a dork.  I love Scrabble.  And I’ve been on a shocking losing streak lately, which is completely unnerving.  (Did I mention that I’m also uber-competitive?  When I enrolled in a fitness boot camp last summer, I even annoyed myself.  I’m that girl who always needs to be just a little faster than the rest.  It’s a bad trait, and it means that I’m something of a sore loser.  Or so Mr. Magpie contends.)

{image from absolutely beautiful things}

PS: The words on this board are pathetic.  Again, I’m annoyingly competitive.

10.  Rosie the Riveter style. My next full post will be on classic Americana styles, which I’ve seen all over the place this season, but especially on the runways featuring the S/S ’11 collections of Derek Lam, Celine, and Stella McCartney.  Gingham, pop of red, classic denim — love.it.all.

{image from emerson made}

Until next week!

ADDENDUM: Though no posts will go up for the next few days, please fly on by to check out my {magpie covets} section, which will be continue to feature off-the-cuff inspiration that comes my way.  And CHECK.IT.OUT: talented fashion illustrator Inslee Haynes has done a couple Magpie-inspired sketches!  Ooh.la.la.!

Saturation Point

In Accessories, Champagne!, Cocktail Dresses, Fresh Combos, Jewelry, Neutrals, Pop of Red, Work Wear on January 12, 2011 at 1:36 pm

I mentioned the other day that I’ve been loving the “palette structure” that has defined so many of the Spring/Summer 2011 collections from my favorite labels, including Lanvin, Celine, and Chloe.  By that I meant that so many of them featured predominantly neutral palettes livened up by pops of hot pink, coral, orange, and what fashion editors are now dubbing “honeysuckle,” which Pantone has designated “the color of 2011.”  And then there were those — like Jil Sander and Nina Ricci — who went all.out.BRIGHTS.  I’m loving both approaches — the appeal of fully saturated color is fresh.period.

{looks from this little magpie’s favorite lines: Lanvin, left, and Chloe, right}

{Valentino and YSL}

{full on color pops from Jil Sander and Nina Ricci}

Even though it’s snowy outside, I can’t help but embrace the springtime colors.  First, I’d l.o.v.e. this happy orange wrap dress (who else but Diane Von Furstenberg — $365, Barney’s):

I’d pair with a festive beaded necklace ($160, Loren Hope) and some nude pointy-toed slingbacks (very Stella McCartney — on super sale for $57, Lori’s Shoes) for a perfect workerbee outfit:

Inspiration behind the look (as if I need more than the runway trend)?  Mark Rothko’s “White Cloud Over Purple” — you can buy an inexpensive print for only $19 at Amazon!)

I’m also loving the retro styling on this inexpensive Dorothy Perkins frock ($50, Dorothy Perkins):

Go full-on bright with some fuchsia suede Louboutins ($695, Net-A-Porter) and then tone it all down with a blush-colored scarf (Chan Luu, $180, Les Pomettes) and a nude-colored quilted bag (Marc Jacobs, $744, Matches):

(For a strikingly similar, bargain version of the quilted bag above, check out this $26 ASOS find.)  P.S. I d.i.e. over the rich fuchsia shade of the Louboutins above — suh-woon.  I fell in love with the color when I saw it on this KILLER MaxMara dress — O.M.G.:

With that dream-worthy color in mind, I’m also loving this similarly-hued, artful silken blouse ($198, SeatonSurf), which I’d pair with dark skinnies and some nude flats (Fendi, $520, Barney’s):

This woven leather tote ($110, Lori’s Shoes) would coordinate perfectly –

– while a pair of sparkling enorma-studs ($55, Kendra Scott) and a pink-accented necklace ($168, Wendy Mink) liven things up:

Another perfect “casual day” outfit (ideal for shopping)?  This covet-listed shirt-dress ($280, ShopBird), which I’d pair with some serious jewel-age ($450, WendyMink):

I’d top it off with some polished gold earrings ($60, Jenny-Bird), a roomy BRIGHT tote (I’m not usually huge on logos like this one, but something about its design is vintage-chic to me — $310, Zappos), and some cut-out flats ($126, Thera M):

Ooh la la.  And how chic would you look in this rich purple dress (Whit, $435, ShopBird), accented by sparkling costume clips ($70, Charm and Chain):

I’d finish with a printed scarf ($295, Les Pomettes) and some vanilla-colored pointy-toed pumps ($140, Tony Bianco):

I’d finish with a corresponding Melie Bianco tote ($96, Lori’s Shoes):

Alternately, how darling would this blush-toned dress (DVF, $485, Matches) look with some BRIGHT coral pumps ($79, Vince Camuto)?

I’d funk it up with this statement-making agate necklace ($220, Dear Fieldbinder)

Or maybe I’d go Valentine’s Day chic, with a peachy-pink blouse top (Marni, $270, Browns) and a BRIGHT reddish-pink skirt (on sale for $98, Singer22):

I’d finish with (big surprise) neutrals, like this nude leather “waterfall” clutch ($60, ASOS) and a pair of nude patent wedges (Marc by Marc Jacobs, $330, Net-A-Porter):

Slick.  You can also feel slick while letting the designers do the color pairing on your behalf, as with this Issa dress (on sale for $280, JosephM – and as a reminder, this designer is pretty hip right now, since Kate Middleton wore one of the label’s lines when announcing her engagement to Prince William):

Insta-modernize with some enorma-studs ($65, Charm and Chain), a funky little laser-cut-petaled clutch (Sondra Roberts, $98, Nordstrom), and these affordable Charles David platforms (only $125! — PiperLime):

And finally — for those of us only interested in “popping” with color (rather than fully saturating ourselves in it)– how about this yummy drape-front sweater ($335, Seaton Surf) over a white blouse ($118, Madewell), paired with your skinnies and some chic cork flats ($165, PrettyBallerinas):

Add these right-on-trend cat-eyes (Chloe, $103, TheOutnet), a  funky necklace (Suzanna Dai, $365, Charm and Chain), and a festive oversized tote ($498, Instilo), and you’re set:


I don’t know about you, but I’m loving the prospect of spring right now…

Rodarte, En Pointe

In Accessories, Beauty Products, Champagne!, Jewelry, Neutrals, Romantic, Shoes on January 10, 2011 at 1:41 pm

I’m super late on this train, but I finally worked up the courage to see Darren Aronofsky’s “Black Swan” last week and was absolutely mesmerized by the costumery, all of which was designed by haute couture line Rodarte, the brainchild of exquisitely talented sisters Kate and Laura Mulleavy.

{Rodarte sketches for the film — image from StyleCaster}

The movie itself was intense, artful, and excellently edited.  Its pace in particular was nothing short of perfect; directer Aronofsky had me on the edge of my seat, in a dizzied, full-adrenaline state of imbalance for the duration.  While the film’s tropes were somewhat familiar Beckettian post-modernist territory (the blurring of fiction and reality; the relationship between self and art; the composition, dissolution, and reduplication of identity; self destruction and self creation; etc), they were handled with such grace and nuance, I found the entire work fresh and vibrant.  And the costumes?  Ba.na.nas.  I’ve already run a post on ballet-inspired fashion, but I’m totally inspired.

{image from the wardrobe whisperer}

To adapt the look to my everyday wardrobe specifications, I’d begin with a statement-making feather-accented top (ugh — love!  — Jason Wu, $1,600, Net-A-Porter), which would look perfect with my go-to skinnies:



I’d keep things in the same color family, but opt for nude add-ons, like this kiss-lock clutch ($55, TopShop) and these be-tasseled flats (adore these affordable Jeffrey Campbells, $130, Jildor):

As for jewelry?  I’m thinking a pair of floral studs ($50, Amrita Singh) and this long, dramatic multi-tier find ($95, Juliet and Company):

And over it all (because  my GOSH it is freezing outside) — this Reiss “Bally” jacket ($385, Reiss):

In.love with the funnel collar and the flap pockets.  Sleek design.  As an alternative, I’ve been eying this Reiss top (on sale for $150, Reiss –  the draping on the sleeves interests me), which I’d tuck into a black lace mini (Sandro, $255, Net-A-Porter) layered atop some black opaque tights and paired with — you guessed it — the item currently occupying the ultra-covet position on my lust-list, these black Brian Atwood t-straps (TDF — $580, Intermix):


I like the idea of playing up the tension between the airiness of the silky, blush-pink blouse and the heaviness of the black t-straps by pairing with some basic pearl clips ($190, Charm and Chain) and a long, tangly, pearl necklace ($340, Pret-A-Beaute):

A perfect white swan / black swan tension.  For weekend wear, I’m loving dove gray on blush pink.  I’ve been toying with the idea of test-driving Kate-Moss-approved gray skinnies (I’d invest in J. Brand’s version — on sale for $118, PiperLime) and pairing it with a cropped lace top (MSGM, on sale for $197, Farfetch — I’ve been seriously dappling with different styles of proportion play, and this boxy shirt would look lovely against a lean cigarette leg), a slouchy blazer ($110, TopShop),  and some nude patent pumps (Jimmy Choo, $680, MyTheresa):



Some gold statement earrings ($40, Max and Chloe) and a dove gray hobo ($137, ASOS) finish the look:

Or how about this lace-trim tunic top (love its breeziness — $195, Calypso), paired with a lady-like ribbon-accented necklace ($28, TopShop), gray skinnies, and some picture-perfect bow-bedecked ballet flats ($70, TopShop):

I think I’d finish the look with this to.die.for Chloe tote (l.o.v.e the Marcie series — $1,820, Intermix):

For something on the dressier side, I’m loving this ethereal taupe silk strapless number by Carven ($690, LaGarconne) topped off with some burnished gold and pearl drops ($145, Charm and Chain):


I’d round out the look with a sparkling, oversized-stone cuff (Erickson Beamon, $475, Charm and Chain) and some nude platforms ($465, Forzieri):

Don’t forget a spritz of Balmain’s spicy Ambre Gris ($100, Matches) — love the design of the bottle:

To top it all off — a little whimsy never hurt anyone, and this unforgettable rose-colored feather jacket from TopShop would be prima ballerina territory ($115, TopShop):

It’d look equally perfect atop this artfully-draped Halston Heritage mini ($360, MyTheresa)

I’d add a spritz of “Miss Dior Cherie” (my sister’s go-to; it smells lovely and the design of the bottle is dar.ling — $82, Nordstrom):

And then finish with these to.die.for Miu Miu t-straps (on sale for $292, Neiman Marcus):

Alternately, how sexy-chic is a lace bustier (Rosamosario, $605, Net-A-Porter) tucked into a drapey ballerina-style skirt (DVF, $305, Matches)?

I like the look finished with a slightly aggressive heel (to balance out the uber-femininity of the rest of the outfit –$160, Heels):

And then this punk-gone-couture knuckle ring clutch (who else but Alexander McQueen – $1,540, Montaigne Market), a stack of lucite bangles (love their vaguely irreverent, semi-futuristic vibe — Lee Angel, on sale for $84/set, Charm and Chain), and some sparkling art deco-style enorma-studs ($154, Ben-Amun):

Finally — and I’ve been waiting forever to feature this hot little number — a blush pink structured mini by Camilla & Marc (they designed one of my absolute FAVORITE dresses in my wardrobe, and I’m in.love. with their cute/feminine-meets-body-conscious styling — $750, Net-A-Porter):

Go “dark swan chic” by adding a black-accented chain necklace (Marni, $570, Net-A-Porter), a black feather clutch ($65, Friis), and some glossy black “I mean business” platforms ($795, Yves St. Laurent):

Suh-woon.


Tropical Getaway

In Accessories, Beach Wear, Fresh Combos, Jewelry, Pop of Red, Shoes, Sundresses on January 5, 2011 at 10:27 am

Mr. Magpie and I are headed down to sunny FL for a winter getaway in next week and the getaway just can’t come soon enough.  I know this is something of a nasty post for those of you stranded in frostier climes with no vacation plans to speak of, but I can’t help it: I’ve been dreaming about a tropical wardrobe in a peppy palette of pinks, corals, and reds, and I’ve got to share.  Confession: my vacation look is totally inspired by YSL’s Resort 2011 collection, whose BRIGHT looks I d.i.e.d over.

{images from style.com}

The first thing on my vacation lust list?  The perfect travel outfit.  I’m dreaming of this gradiated stripe cotton sweater by St. John ($495, call 310.858.1116), which I’d pair with a beaded necklace ($29, Jigsaw), white jeans, and some blush leather loafers (Tod’s, $387, MyTheresa):

Stay warm on-board by topping with a navy blazer (Rebecca Taylor, $395, MyTheresa) and stuffing all your essentials into a roomy tote in happy, poppy red (Marc Jacobs, $398, Endless):

Upon arrival, I’ll swap my travel-friendly look for an airy caftan (on sale for $135, It’s the New Black), layered atop a bright coral bikini ($96, Pret-A-Beaute):

Finish with this sparkling cuff (on sale for $120, Charm and Chain) and a pair of simple t-straps (Lilly Pulitzer, on sale for $79, FootCandyShoes):


Alternately, for daytime shopping / excursions, I love this blousey kurta (on sale for $49, Calypso) paired with crisp white shorts and classic vacationista-chic aviators ($139, Ray-Ban):

Finish with a woven clutch ($75, Calypso) and some gold gladiators (Modern Vintage, $198, SimplySoles):

Alternately, go full-on palm beach with a bright orange sashed top (Diane Von Furstenberg, $210, Barney’s) and some coral shorts (these Marc Jacobs are silly expensive — $864!!!, Matches — but you’ll likely be able to find a comparable pair at J. Crew come spring):

I’d finish the look with an oversized gold bead necklace ($126, Pret-A-Beaute), a gold-and-bamboo clutch (on sale for $135, Elaine Turner), and some gold t-straps (Sam Edelman, $59, Nordstrom):

I’m also adoring the slouchy drapiness of this daytime coral dress (on sale for $165, Frockaholics), which I’d pair with a blush pink two-piece ($130, Zimmerman):

I’d finish with a thin stack of bangles ($9.50, Old Navy) and an eye-catching tote (Tory Burch, $250, ShopTwigs):

Or, going back to the first look above, this sherbet colored cotton tee (strawberry and canteloupe?) would be a perfect lightweight alternative ($140, Opening Ceremony) and would look fresh with white shorts:


I’d take the look in a different direction by pairing with some Lanvin red-and-khaki espadrilles (these look so now to me — on sale for $465, MyTheresa):

Finish with  a coordinating pom-pom necklace (Lizzie Fortunato, $255, Chance Co) and a straw tote ($215, Singer22):

Finally, for hitting the town, do you not die over this bubble gum pink dress (Adam, $93, TheOutnet) paired with a cheery Gerard Yosca collar necklace in happy orange-coral ($88, ShopTwigs)?

Bring things back to earth (and out of Barbie-ville) with these brown-and-gold strappy sandals (Belle by Sigerson Morrison, $96, TheOutnet), this straw-and-brown leather tote (Marc Jacobs, $925, Ssense), and this sick pair of Chloe shades ($99, TheOutnet):

And — finally — a classic, airy white kaftan ($135, Net-A-Porter), finished with an orange-and-white ikat print scarf ($306, Matches) and some K. Jacques t-straps (my favorite sandal brand — and Jackie O’s, too — $225, Calypso):


Ugh, I can almost feel the rays now…get.me.to.next.Friday.

La Creme de la Creme

In Accessories, Fresh Combos, Jewelry, Magpie Must, Neutrals, Pop of Red, Shoes on January 3, 2011 at 4:08 pm

At the dawn of 2011, I have a lot to be thankful for — so many exciting developments in 2010!  First and foremost, I married the love of my life.  The subsequent months were (and continue to be) nothing short of ecstatic — pure happiness!  Love you, Mr. Magpie.  Second, I launched this little blog and have been so moved and inspired by the generous reception it’s enjoyed (thank you, readers!)  I’m looking forward to an even more fashion-packed year of bloggery in 2011.  (Check out my new features on DC-wide blog, WeLoveDC, look forward to some interesting guest posts and exciting giveaways and — as always — send me your ideas!)  And, finally, I was promoted to a managerial position after a year of hard work and fruitful collaboration.  All around, not too shabby a year.  But rather than wax poetic about personal milestones, I’ll  instead feature some of my favorite 2010 “Magpie Musts” — those “creme de la creme” items that have truly made this year a good one.  You’ll recognize some — but not all — of these items from earlier posts.  Without further adieu, the creme de la creme of 2010!

1. The Camel Toggle Coat

This fall, I wore my camel-colored toggle coat just about every single day.  I loved pairing it with my go-to Paige skinnies, Loeffler Randall wedge boots, and anything plaid {button-downs, scarves, etc}.  It felt just right for the season.

{Fidelity Duffle Coat, $245, Steven Alan}

Fashion blogger Cherry Blossom Girl shared my sentiments exactly, and was frequently photographed in her own variation (her topper was by Parisian designer Sandro):

2. BRIGHTS

When I first started blogging back in spring 2010, I was in love with neon.  It felt fresh.  Midway through the year, the palette changed a bit, and I shelved my hot pink printed blouses for eye-catching accents in saturated blues and vibrant poppy reds.  Happily, the pop-of-red trend has been a mainstay in the latest Spring 2011 collections, so it looks like BRIGHTS are here to stay.


{1.  Lizzie Fortunato Flower necklace, $255, Chance; 2. Isharya cluster earrings, $105, Pret-A-Beaute; 3. Virginia Johnson turtle scarf, $195, Virginia Johnson; 4.  Essie Clambake nail lacquer, $8, EssieShop; 5. Hayden Harnett Havana hobo, $498, InStilo; 6. H&M Jacket (available in stores); 7.  Pretty Ballerinas Marilyn flat, about $144, Pretty Ballerinas}

3. iPad

Apple products just gets cooler and cooler.  I still marvel over the fact that, on a random rainy Saturday afternoon, I can decide I want to read “that new book I heard about,” download it in iBooks, and be reading it without moving an inch.  And all in the space of 30 seconds!

{iPad — $499 and up, Apple; monogrammed iPad case — $112, Graphic Image}

4.  Leopard Love

My, my.  Was leopard ever big this year.  I managed to snap up two pairs of leopard print shoes (these flats from Ann Taylor — which I wore constantly, and these wedges, which I’ve worn twice — shame on me!), and yet I’d still kill for these classic cap-toed YSL flats:

Speaking of YSL, this gauzey YSL scarf ($560, Net-A-Porter) inspired me to pull a similar style out of retirement (i.e. exile to the back of the closet), and I wore it constantly, and with everything.

When I wasn’t wearing leopard around the neck or at the toe, I even went so far as to buy a little leopard-print silken blouson-style dress (by Parker), though what I really wanted was this boxy-cut, 80s-esque See by Chloe number (on sale for $273, Net-A-Porter), which I would have updated with my glossy black Louboutins and a major black statement necklace.

And though I didn’t get quite this far, I even contemplated splurging on this Tory Burch rabbit fur print coat (on sale for $870, Net-A-Porter):

Fierce year for this little lady.

5.  Tocca Home Fragrance

Would it be over-the-top to say I couldn’t live without my Tocca candles ($36 apiece, Sephora)?  I absolutely love and live in the “Florence” scent — it perfumes my whole apartment.  Must.

6.  Glossy Gold Accents

I’ve been all about polished gold add-ons this year — there’s just something classy and refined about the look.  I’ve been taking notes from Olivia Palermo, who has this look down pat.  {Check out the “Olivia, I Love Ya” post for more Olivia-inspired styling.}

I like these gilded accessories paired with just about anything under the sun, but there’s something especially fetching about pairing them with classic upscale Americana sportswear like navy blazers, white jeans, crisp oxfords, and loafers.  Imagine how chic you’d look pairing them with any of the finds below:

{Clockwise from top left: Freelook Watch, $200, Amazon; geo disc studs, $75, JennyBird; t-strap sandals, $259, Pret-A-Beaute; bouquet collar necklace, $200, Emily Elizabeth Jewelry; sculptural cuff, $295, Charm and Chain}

7.  The Daytime Clutch

Clutches have been an evening wear staple forever, but over the past few seasons, they’ve come to frequent chic daytime wardrobes as well.  I like the idea of an oversized, rich-leather clutch in a somewhat utilitarian, frill-less style paired with a blazer and killer pumps or jeans and a chunky knit.  This See by Clare Vivier in supple cognac ($139, See by Clare Vivier) or this boxy Radley style in rich green (perfect for accenting a navy blazer! — on sale for $140, John Lewis) would be perfect:

For my workaday life — I wear a.lot of black, so this tassel-accented turnlock clutch could be a perfect workday staple ($44, TopShop):

Alternately, elevate the clutch to the center of attention with this uh.may.zing leopard style (Hunting Season, $1,350, Intermix):

Love.

8.  Uber-High Heels

So this Magpie Must runs somewhat contrary to recent trends on the runways, where we’ve seen kitten heels and the so-called “elevator espadrille” (aka “flatform”) assume a higher (er…lower?) profile.    But I can’t help it: I’ve been looking for ever higher heels, especially with the advent of the platform’s popularity the past coupla years.  I’m petite.  I need the height.  End of story.

Do you not d.i.e. over these t-strap Brian Atwoods ($580, Intermix)?!  6″ high.  Will break your ankle.  A must have.  I bought my first pair of YSL heels this year (a pair of delightful greige suede sandals — kind of like these, but not as terrifying/tranny-esque; mine feature a sculpted heel and a mildly more modest platform), and they pretty much make me cry in equal parts pain and pleasure whenever I slip them on.  (Way too high, way too hot.)  Same story with these puppies (120 mm!) — you know I die over the Louboutins ($595, Net-A-Porter):

Or these (less expensive, equally as fashion-forward — $90, Zara):

9.  Suede Anything…and Everything

I’ve been all about styling in contrasts this year — color complementing, proportion play, and so forth can lend any look a sense of depth and fashion know-how.  But I’ve been particularly keen on texture contrasts, and one of my go-to fabrics has been suede.  I’m in.love. with the suede pump in particular (I own a pair in rich chocolate that I die over, but these gray Charles Davids — $114, Lori’s Shoes — and these fuschia Louboutins — $695, Net-A-Porter are swoonworthy):

Or how about a slick oversized daytime clutch in pop-of-reddish-pink ($80, TopShop)?

Or one of up-and-coming designer Tila March’s confections, like this sleek little cross-body bag in die over it gray (about $570, Tila March)?

Oh suede.  Love.

10.  Red Nails.

Not so much a fad for 2010 — once a red gal, always a red gal.  I’ve been getting my weekly manicures at Vicky’s in Georgetown (1616 Wisconsin Ave NW) for several years now.  (I’m such a regular, when I missed a couple of weeks worth of manis earlier this year due to a frenetic work schedule, they actually hugged me when I came in and said that they’d been worried I was sick.  Now that is customer service.)  Sometimes I veer into the coral-orange hues (ADORE Essie’s “Geranium“), other times the deeper wine reds (LOVE Essie’s “Tiney Winey“), but it’s always in the red family, and it’s always from Essie.