thefashionmagpie

Archive for September, 2011

Magpie Musts: The Hi-Lo Edition

In Accessories, Black, Brights!, Fresh Combos, Fur, Leopard, Magpie Must, Shoes on September 30, 2011 at 10:35 am

Welcome to the best day of your life.  Haha, JK…but this post will make many of you very happy as I have finally listened to your requests to feature “more affordable” versions of the lustworthy insta-iconic items I normally post.  So, here goes.  A Hi-Lo version of my Magpie Covets for this fall.  (PS: Check out other Magpie Must posts here, here, and here.)

1.  Animal-Print Silky Dress.

If you read my “Animal Planet” post, you’ll know that I can’t help myself when it comes to animal prints this fall — whether it’s snakeskin, leopard, dalmatian, tortoise, or anything else animal for that matter.  And I’ve specifically been looking for an animal-print dress that I can pair with black opaque tights and super-high black heels (or booties).  It all comes down to this: the Rag&Bone Delaney ($475, Rag&Bone) or this H&M tunic, which I have inspected and fallen in love with in person ($29, H&M):


I’d wear either with a statement necklace ($275, Vivre), black opaque tights, and some patent pumps ($595, Saks):

 

2.  Sloafers

I’ve heard from the masses and some of you love ‘em, and others of you hate ‘em, but like ‘em or not, sloafers are big this season.  (And maybe I should re-think its unbecoming name — sounds as auditorily offensive as “smog.”)  Before you reject them permanently as a fashion possibility, I encourage you to reconsider their chicness by checking them out on the tootsies of my favorite little chic pea, Olivia Palermo.  See her sport them with panache here and here.  And then consider sticking with a velvety black style, in the traditional “tuxedo slipper” tradition.  Hi: $595, Alexander McQueen (check out the skull and crossbones embroidery!  Ay!  If that’s too terrifying for you but you’re still looking for an upscale version, check out this Stubbs & Wootton style for $400.  Personally, prefer the lower heel of the McQueen, but — up to you.)  Lo: Sam Edelman, $130, Zappos):

 3.  Cropped Fur Jacket

Um.  We all know how bonkers I went over this Vince cropped fur coat ($1,875, Shopbop) earlier this season.  Sadly, am unable to casually shell out close to $2K on outerwear.  That’s why I went bananas with joy when I discovered this equally as chic topper from MICHAEL Michael Kors ($175!!!, Net-A-Porter) for a fraction of the price.  Must.own.now.  Like, massive drool session over here.

 

4.  Strappy Heel

When I saw Taylor Tomasi Hill (a Magpie fave on the street style circuit) in this snap, I was immediately drawn to the strappy footwear.  OMG.  I need them, and bad.  Until I found out that they were by Alaia, and were over $1K.  (Check out a similar Alaia version from this season on sale for $700, Brown’s Fashion).  This made me sad…until I found these comparable tootsies from Plenty by Tracey Reese (was not aware she’d expanded into footwear…!) for only $139 — now on sale for $76 at Endless!

Oh, and if you’re not sure if you can envision yourself sporting this strappy style, check out the slightly less encumbered variation, also by Tracy Reese, on sale for $76, here.  See them styled to perfection here, on Lindsey of SaucyGlossie (you may have seen her recently in those TJMaxx commercials about being a “Maxxinista.”)

5.  The Gold Cuff.

As mentioned earlier this week, I’m kind of loving a gold cuff for this fall season.  I mean, check this look out — the pairing of that camel/peach/nude blouse with crisp black and the shiny gold cuff?  Love.  While Citrine by the Stones has a sick style ($175, Charm and Chain), you can get the look for a lot less from Nordies ($58).


6. Nylon Gym Bag

I’ve been attending an outdoor fitness bootcamp, and it’s always rainy and muddy, so I’ve been looking for an update to my Anya Hindmarch canvas tote, which makes no sense in the mucky weather.  (It just absorbs liquid and dirt.  Best purse sponge ever.)  The obvious pick would be one of my retired Herve Chapelier or Longchamp totes, but I’m sooo bored of those.  I mean, they’re the world’s most practical bags (lightweight, compactable, etc.), but I’m sort of over them, especially — for what they are, they are so pricey ($125)!  (Sorry, guys.)  I propose instead these lightweight shoppers from the MOMA store — on sale for only $10/pop!  And what great colors!

7. The Upscale Pouchette Clutch

Not sure if anyone else watched with envy while fashion’s chicest sported the Celine pouch clutch in bold colors last season, but I certainly did.  The clutch sells for around $400 and apparently just flings itself off of the shelf.

…but (!) that was until I discovered Comme des Garcons had put out an equally as chic and refined style for only a fraction of the price (!!!! — $98, ShopBird):

Ahoy, mateys.  (???  It’s Friday.)

8.  Le Boot

What I want are these eye-catching, mid-calf suede boots by EDM.  What I don’t want is to spend $975 on them.  Solution: Calvin Klein’s mink suede style, available for only $139 at PiperLime.  Done deal.

 

Either would look awesome with a plaid cape (sweat the black leather trim on this style — Malene Birger, $795, LesNouvelles — although B.B. Dakota has a lovely, inexpensive style out now — $130 at Shopbop — as does Tinley Road, available for $89 at PiperLime) and skinnies:

And would finish with a rose gold-black leather watch ($88, Shopbop), some cat-eye shades ($134, Shopbop), and a fierce black tote (love this Balenciaga style, especially because of its rose gold hardware — $1,995, Barney’s):

 

So — what’s on YOUR must list for fall?!

Under the Weather

In Accessories, Home Decor, Intimates, Shoes, Winter Weather on September 29, 2011 at 9:52 am

Honestly, given the dreary, rainy, humid weather we’ve been having, the title of this post could read: “With the Weather.”   Semantics aside, I’m not feeling so hot, and feel myself dangerously close to a full on cold.  I’m inclined to pass the day with a little R&R and all of the comforts of home and hearth.  I want to snuggle up in bed with one of these retro-chic sit pillows ($340, ChicShopLA) –


– surround myself with pillows ($75-$95 each, Zhush) –

– and curl up beneath a cozy (or, in this case, cococozy) blanket ($285, Cococozy):

 


I’d like to say you’d find me in a tidy little pajama duo ($265, Journelle) with a satin sleep mask ($20, Journelle) and a little bedroom sloafer (well, these are hardly just for the bedroom — these are $400 tuxedo-style slippers, and the price only escalates if you explore their bespoke options…a girl can dream?! — $400, Stubbs and Wootton):

 

 

 

(This, I imagine, would be how someone like Lauren Santo Domingo would handle a sick day.  Did anyone see Vogue’s feature on her in their 5 Days, 5 Looks, 1 Girl series?  She is beautiful and articulate and has a ridiculously refined and enviable fashion sensibility.  Not to mention equally enviable funds to make that sensibility a reality.  And yet — something about the feature just made me think she’s…joyless/all business/no fun.  Still, would love to pass a day with her wardrobe.)  I would more likely be found in a gray tee ($42, Madewell) and boxers ($135, Barney’s):

Yummy.  I’d snuggle up with a cozy, lived-in sweatshirt (this line — Rebel Yell — is favored by celebrities in LA — $129, TheTrendBoutique) and my favorite snuggly slippers ($59, L.L.Bean):

On my bedside table, you’d find: a bouquet of flowers (I still can’t get over how REAL these falsies look — $350, Gracious Home) and my favorite candle scent ($60, Diptyque):

In bed, you’d find me curled up with my iPad (pictured below with a YSL carrying case — $450, Net-A-Porter), a monogrammed note pad to keep track of all of the items I’m currently coveting and hoping to share on this little bloggerooski ($40, DabneyLee) — with, of course, a LePen ($1.69, Uchida), and a stack of fashion magazines:

Wahoo.  I know there are healthier options out there, but when I’m sick, all I want is Campbell’s chicken noodle soup and a roll of saltines –

 

–so that’s what I’d stick to.  That, and an ungodly amount of water.  My father (perhaps the fittest man I know — he’s in his 60s and still runs several miles a day…wow.) once said to me: “water and exercise can pretty much cure anything.”  Yup.  Which explains why, despite my blue-in-the-gills status, I somehow rose with the sun (well, actually — rose before the sun, that lazy little slacker!), dragged myself out of bed, and made it to my morning fitness bootcamp.  I know, I don’t know how I did it (casual pat on the back/smug look of success).  Some zombie version of Mrs. Magpie did this — totally out of body experience — and suddenly I was back at my apartment an hour later, totally sore and exhausted and even sicker than before.  Kind of similar, experientially, to the moment I first laid eyes on the Alexander Wang “Emile” tote in Barney’s.  Totally swooned with envy and felt myself enter fashion heaven — out.of.body.  AND scene.

If I must venture out into public, the following items are 100% necessary for comfort and discreetness: 1) a face shielding mechanism in the form of these sunglasses (still obsessed — Chloe, on sale for $116, TheOutnet); 2) a large, oversized knit poncho or sweater, preferably cable-knit (Barbour, $400, MyWardrobe); black leggings; and my trusty minnetonka mocs ($39, Madewell):

 

I’d hurl all of my essentials into a roomy tote (still loving this Zara style, which Mr. Magpie bought for me as one of my birthday gifts this past summer — $150, Zara):

Et voila.  Feeling better already.

 

Black, White, and Red Hot All Over

In Accessories, Black, Fierce, Fresh Combos, Fur, Jewelry, Pop of Red, Shoes on September 28, 2011 at 1:54 pm

I’ve seen little pops of dalmatian print all over lately, and I’m loving it, Cruella de Ville-style.  For example, I like the idea of this dalmatian-print blouse ($525, Net-A-Porter) paired with some cropped black work pants in a heavier wool for a little textural contrast (the J. Crew Minnie is flattering to many body types — $168, J. Crew) and ladylike pumps (these Givenchies are too good to be true — $590, Net-A-Porter):

I’d finish with glossy gold accessories, like these “honeycomb” earrings (on sale for $35, EmilyElizabeth) and a bow-topped cuff bracelet ($178, Kate Spade) –

I’d finish with that Alexander Wang bag I’ve been drooling all over (ugh, want.so.bad. — $975, Shopbop) and would top it all off with a collarless coat (though not the one pictured below, I’m obsessed with this very similar J. Crew style, dubbed “The Symphony” — $350, J.Crew):

 

 

 

Alternately, in winter months, I tend to wear silky, printed dresses from the likes of Tucker and Parker to work (this one is a Parker, and I L.O.V.E. the pattern — $242, Barney’s) with black opaque tights, a statement necklace ($448, Kate Spade), and black suede pumps (these Jimmy Choo “Cosmics” are perfect — $695, Net-A-Porter, but these Steve Maddens — $99, Heels — give ‘em a run for their money, too):

 

 

 

I’d finish with a gold cuff (this is my new Thing for the fall — cuffs galore, even one on each wrist, WonderWoman style — $58, Nordstrom):

– and then would add a grown-up black leather tote (Marc Jacobs, $1,095, Barney’s) and a BRIGHT red manicure, courtesy of Deborah Lippmann’s “It’s Raining Men” ($16, Deborah Lippmann):

For weekend wear, I’d happily spruce up a black turtleneck poncho ($396, Alice & Olivia), simple skinnies, and gold ernoma-studs ($20, TopShop) with some dalmatian print flats (Louboutin, $492, ShopSavannahs):

 

 

I’d offset the entire look with a red tote (DVF, $545, MyWardrobe) –

– and a stack of gold wrist goodies (Michael Kors watch, $180, Nordstrom; spike bangle, $125, CCSkye; horse charm bracelet, $18, ASOS):

Round it out (pardon the pun) with a glossy gold dome ring ($85, Neiman Marcus):

 

 

If you’re into the sloafers look this fall, swap out the ballets above for this trendy style ($60, TopShop):

Alternately, how about this amazing knit cape (Moschino, $750, Stylebop), black skinnies, and some ponyhair sloafers (Belle by Sigerson Morrison, $235, Madewell):

 

Top it off with a burgundy tote ($395, Rebecca Minkoff) –

Orrr, finally, test drive a mixed print look by taking this artsy take on the dalmatian print (black brush strokes — genius!!! — from Kelly Wearstler’s new collection — $165, Kelly Wearstler) and pairing it with a striped blouse (also Kelly W — love! — $285, Kelly Wearstler), black skinnies, and some red flats ($239, MyWardrobe):

 


I’d finish with gold enorma-studs ($188, Charm and Chain), a statement cuff (on sale for $32, Nordstrom)

I like this glitzy little cross-body as a way of finishing the look (Louboutin, $795, Barney’s):

Done and done!

Camping Out

In Accessories, Fierce, Fur, Shoes, Tweed, Winter Weather on September 27, 2011 at 10:34 am

It always happens this time of year: I daydream about spending a night or two camping with my nearest and dearest somewhere in the Blue Ridge.  The idea of s’mores, the smell of campfire, and all of that “into the wild” goodness are endlessly appealing.  (Mr. Magpie, please refrain from commenting on the sheer insanity of this commentary — I know you know better than anyone that I’m not exactly an “outdoor” kind of girl.  Bugs = ew.)  For such an excursion, I’d of course need to bundle up with all sorts of laughably inappropriate gear, including a black fur vest (Elizabeth and James, $595, LesNouvelles), a glen plaid flannel top (Isabel Marant, $385, Net-A-Porter), and some skinnies:

Even though I kinda half think that this get-up calls for some moto-inspired boots, they scare me too much.  I feel like they cross the line into masculine/terrifying territory, so I’ll stay calmly over here, far away from them.  Instead, I’ll finish with these equestrian-inspired Hunter boots ($195, Shopbop), which add just the right blend of practicality* and polish:

*This little Magpie does not do “real” camping, as evidenced by the bogus statement/blatant falsehood that the above outfit is in any way “practical.”  Oddly appropriate, then, that the title of this post is about “camp” — camp referring in one sense  to the physical activity of pitching tent and toasting s’mores, and in another, to the aesthetic sensibility, as in “kitsch,” or the sort of artificial/ironic “putting on” of an unsophisticated, low-taste-level quality.  Campiness.

At any rate — back to the threads.   One of my other go-to habits for cooler weather?  Layering long-sleeved tees over oxfords for a borrowed-from-the-boys look that still maintains a feminine silhouette.  I begin with one of my Ralph Lauren oxfords, layer a thin crewneck shirt over top ($72, Madewell), and finish with white jeans (IMHO, these do NOT need to be stowed post-Labor Day.  I like them tucked into brown boots in fall or with sloafers well into autumn), tortoise shades (Thierry Lasry, $375, Opening Ceremony), and some Minnetonkas ($44, Zappos):

 

Once the sun sets and the temperature cools, slip into a parka — I’m dy.ing. over this Crewcuts style for boys ($148, J. Crew), but this grown-up Madewell style is also lovely –

Or go really “back-woods” (really “campy”) with a classic plaid flannel, borrowed from the boys (love the elbow patches! — $295, Jack Spade), denim skinnies, and some classic Sorel boots ($140, Shopbop):


Wear the shirt unbuttoned with a tank underneath to add some girlishness, and then finish with aviators ($139, Ray-Ban) and cozy mittens ($52, WinkNYC):

 

Still too masculine for you?  Try the feminized version of the flannel shirt above in the form of this cape ($268, Steven Alan):

 

Perfect with these sherpa-lined mittens ($15, Dorothy Perkins):

 

Come nightfall, snuggle up in these girlified thermals ($42 for top, $58 for bottom — JuicyCouture):

Layer as appropriate.  For me, this means a cashmere snuggly wrap sweater ($386, SeatonSurf) and Smartwool socks (they ain’t pretty, but they are all about function, and man, do they function well.  I wear these every.day. of the winter — $17.95/pair, Smartwool):

 

 

 

 

Who are we kidding?  I’d also probably have this cable-knit scarf wrapped around my neck ($115, Reiss) and my trusty ol LLBean mocs (they are so ratty and disgusting at this point — sort of like little balls of debris strapped to my foot…time for a replacement pair?! — $59, LLBean):

 

 

And then, finally, a tidy little luxe camping set (ridiculous?  Yes. But I’ll take cashmere pillows and eye masks any day — $209, Bluefly):

I’m a notorious overpacker, and I will not miss the opportunity to disappoint, even when camping.  I’d stow an extra fleece pullover (this oatmeal fleece is my all-time favorite piece of outerwear — it is so.warm. and so snuggly.  And I like its retro styling — $139, Patagonia), some extra socks ($40, Aubin and Wills), and — of course — an extra, sherpa-lined throw ($120, Woolrich), all stowed in a totally ridiculous leather weekender ($395, JackSpade):

I’d keep cosmetics and lingerie in separate pouches ($30 each, Aubin and Wills) –

– and, for fun around the campfire, pack a deck of cards and the fixins for my favorite cocktail for fall — The Town Hall (well, that’s what they call my favorite drink at a local watering hole of the same name — it contains Woodford Reserve, house-made ginger ale, and apple cider molasses…yum…!):

 

 

Anyone else in the mood for a jaunt into the woods, Magpie style?!

La Bourgogne

In Accessories, Black, Fresh Combos, Jewelry, Neutrals, Shoes, Winter Weather, Work Wear on September 26, 2011 at 1:04 pm

I’d always hated the maroon/burgundy color family — it felt old and drab, like a shriveled old maple leaf.  (Not to put too fine a point on things.)  And then, BAM.  Suddenly, over the span of a few weeks, I became obsessed — and am now coveting looks that center upon black, burgundy, and deep denim, accented by glossy gold accents and fur.  Maj for this fall season.  (EEEE, don’t you love the beginning of a new season, where everything feels fresh and shiny and new?!)  I’m daydreaming about a printed blouse (this Gucci style is obscenely expensive and there are TONS of comparable styles out there, but I find myself continually looking for something like this style, with its light, layered neckline — $990, Net-A-Porter) tucked into a leather-trimmed mini (Sandro, $285, Net-A-Porter) and finished with a statement necklace ($75, LesNouvelles), opaque black tights, and heels (love this perforated suede style — $119, Heels):

 

I’d finish with an oversized burgundy red portfolio clutch (dying over the faux croc fabrication…this may just have to be my accent piece for the season! — $88, ASOS):

 

And then perhaps some stud earrings ($12, Dorothy Perkins) and a chunky gold bracelet (Giles & Brother, $163, Shopbop):

 

Alternately, how about a classic white blouse (Equipment, $208, Shopbop) offset by a gold collar necklace (Belle Noel — Kim Kardashian’s line! — $185, BoutiquetoYou) and tucked into a burgundy leather mini (I know…leather plus mini should NOT be in the same sentence when referencing ladylike dressing, but there are so many amazing styles out there — you just need to know how to mix and match, and always need to opt for the upscale…nothing cheaper looking than inexpensive/faux leather! — $693, LesNouvelles):


I’d accompany with a snakeskin clutch (love the contrast of textures with this look — $295, ElaineTurner) and some serious footwear ($465, Theory):

 


(Scared of the shoe? — Check out these Pelle Moda puppies.  Love the modified t-strap.  Fuh-yierce.)  I’d top with a camel wool coat — this belted style adds just the right amount of polish to the look (Vanessa Bruno Athe, $590, MyWardrobe):

Top with some burgundy leather gloves ($200, Matches):

For a low-key weekend look, check out this yummy poncho sweater ($125, Michael Kors), huge statement earrings in glossy gold (Fallon, $188, Charm&Chain), skinnies, and a pair of ladylike bow-toe pumps (not that I borrowed this silhouette from Isabel Marant or anything…Prada, $625, Bergdorf Goodman):

 

 

Don’t you love how well these tootsies go with a ladylike cross-body clutch ($365, Raoul)?

 

 

I’d add a leather watch (loooove this style, and so does Rachel Zoe — $60, Piperlime), a tiger bangle (I own a similar KJL but with a giraffe head…love — $112, Charm & Chain):

 

And, of course, snuggle up with a fur tippet/scarf (I like all of the Adrienne Landau styles, viewable here):

Alternately, use burgundy as a new neutral — pair it with a simple black turtleneck, a statement necklaces ($130, MyWardrobe), and a printed, circle skirt (ALC, on sale for $149, LesNouvelles):

 

Finish with some maj heels (Louboutin, $895, Bergdorf Goodman) and a ladylike roll bag ($49, Zara):

Do we die over this?  (Yes.)  Another dressed-down alternative?  This Michael Michael Kors rabbit gilet (d.i.e. over his ENTIRE collection this season…he’s sort of hit or miss, but SERIOUSLY would wear it all! — $425, Net-A-Porter) over a burnout tee (like its lived-in quality — $42, Madewell), finished with skinnies and some sloafers (this may be my new favorite iteration of the trend — $155, MattBernson):

 

 

 

Punch things up with a burgundy-red bag ($495, Shopbop) –

– and offset the otherwise minimalist get-up with this eye-catching necklace (love the art-deco feel — $110, Nordstrom):

Swoon!  Love love love it.  Finally — and, I’m sorry in advance to my lovely readers who hate when I recommend obscenely priced items, like the Gucci blouse above and the dress I’m about to feature — check out this cut-out Burberry Prorsum crepe dress — $1,990, Net-A-Porter):

Love the balloon sleeves, the subtly sexy cut-out in the center, the length, the feel, the fabrication.  Beautiful.  Finish with burgundy pumps (Rachel Zoe, $295, Piperlime), a tweed clutch with plum undertones ($250, Elaine Turner),

 

As for jewelry, I’m thinking rose gold: a watch with a leather band (Nixon, $256, ASOS), a chunky statement ring ($100, Charm&Chain), and some sparkly enorma-studs ($365, Bounkit):

 

Still haven’t found what you’re looking for to cash in on the trend?  Check out this burgundy faux-fur infinity wrap ($158, Intermix), this cheeky little pouch ($55, Shopbop), or these fierce raspberry patent Mary Janes ($118, Vince Camuto)!

OBSESSED.

Electricity.

In Accessories, Black, Brights!, Dream Wear, Fresh Combos, Jewelry, Leopard, Neutrals, Pop of Red, Shoes, Winter Weather on September 22, 2011 at 4:59 pm

Last season, it was all about saturated, color-blocked head-to-toe looks.  I loved all of the fanfare after a few neutral-heavy seasons.  Now it’s back to the POP of color — an all black ensemble with a pair of kickin, boldly-hued tootsies as the exclamation point.  Love, love, love.  Consider, for example, a collarless jacket (this style is bank-breakingly beautiful, but I’m confident you can find something comparable at Club Monaco, Zara, etc — Moschino, $2,955, Net-A-Porter), a lipstick pink blouse ($170, Reiss) with black skinnies and some MAJ booties (Jimmy Choo, $975, Net-A-Porter):

P.S. Scared of the tootsies?  Don’t be — check out how amazing they look on Elle MacPherson.  Me likey.  I’d accent with gold pyramid stud earrings ($24, Lord&Taylor) and a gold fan necklace (I have something verrry similar that I obsess over from J. Crew — $59, Modcloth):

 

I’d finish with the J. Crew leopard Edie (grrr, can I just own it already?! — $448, J. Crew):

 

Or how about a gray-and-black jacket (ACNE, $570, LaGarconne) with a classic white blouse ($110, Madewell), some denim skinnies, and these eyecatching shearling booties (I may be having a long-term flirtation with the idea of shearling…don’t be scared — Zanotti, $895, Intermix):

 


– all offset by a pop of green in the form of this idyllic little Reed Krakoff style ($525, Reed Krakoff)?

 

I’d add oversized gold button studs (Alexis Bittar, $80, Charm&Chain) and this statement necklaces ($46, Fashion-Conscience):

 

Or — imagine layering this luxe, ladylike coat (Vanessa Bruno, $680, LaGarconne) atop your favorite neutral top, skinnies, and snakeskin flats ($118, Ann Taylor), accented with some upscale big-gem earrings ($320, Bounkit):

 

 

 

Punch things up with a cherry red bag — I think this Victoria Beckham style (sold out now) was perfection, but the J. Crew Edie in flame ($238) would be lovely as well.

Or — a classic black sheath (the ultimate blank canvas — Halston Heritage, $245, Net-A-Porter) — spruced up with a bold necklace (in love with all.of.her.stuff — $36, ElizHNYC):

I’d finish with cobalt blue pumps (Michael Kors, $295, Net-A-Porter), a BOLD yellow clutch ($270, Bluefly), and some glitzy earrings ($120, Ben-Amun):

 

Alternately, thoughts on a boho-chic feather necklace (secretly coveting the entire feather-centric line out by Serefina this season — $7.80, Forever21) paired with a black LBD:

Finish with a pop o’ green in the form of these TDF nubby pumps (Aperlai, $660, Kirna Zabete):

Round it all out with a leopard tote (Jerome Dreyfuss’ styles are suddenly explosively popular — check out this version, for $1,520, Net-A-Porter or go with a larger, roomier tote in the form of this Clare Vivier style) and a fierce cuff($85, Noir):

Also loving the idea of a prim set of pearls ($1,400, JenniferElizabeth), a classic trenchcoat (Burberry, $1,095, Net-A-Porter) with some “get to business” pumps ($320, ScoopNY) –

 

 

 

 

– shaken up with a BRIGHT yellow bag ($87, ASOS) and some oversized sunnies (did anyone else notice that my much-coveted shades are available on sale at TheOutnet?! — $115, TheOutnet):

 

Other easy ways to get the look?  Try pairing your standard black work outfit with a pair of boldly-hued flats ($50, TopShop), a BRIGHT clutcherooski ($149, ClareVivier), or an unexpected kelly green pair of earrings ($10.80, ASOS):

 

 

 

As an alternative, test drive a bold orange lip color (I finally took the plunge and have been showing some serious love to YSL’s Rouge Pur color 21 (“Indian Orange” — $27, Amazon), a KABAM pink iPhone cover (around $60, Eley Kishimoto):

 

It’s electric!

A Flannel Fall

In Americana, Black, Fierce, Fur, Jewelry, Leopard, Monograms, Neutrals, Shoes, Tweed, Winter Weather, Work Wear on September 20, 2011 at 11:13 am

OK, I’m officially done with summer and 100% locked into autumn.  I’ve been waltzing around in cozy knit ponchos, jeans, boots, and blazers, and am practically ecstatic about it.  (I was so.bored. of my summer wardrobe that I occasionally turned into a snippy little angerball when opening my closet.  I may have kicked one of my Jack Rogers in frustration/bored0m.  Mr. Magpie can attest to this and how unbecoming that behavior is, so: thanks, fall, for showing up.)  In addition to my obsession with all-things-animal for fall 2011 (as evidenced by the zoology lesson I shared with you in yesterday’s post), I’m seriously into textures, and especially into separates in the gray flannel family.  Cannot.get.enough.  Picture yourself swaddled (? awkward word for a grown woman?) in this belted dream of a coat (so 80s in all of the right ways with that boxy, dramatic neckline and the cropped sleeves — Calvin Klein, on sale for $384, TheOutnet):

Ugh, lovely.  I’d finish with a bow-front blouse (polka dot would be preferable, but a classic white style is endlessly useful — $9.95, H&M), black skinnies, and some “check me out” shoes, in the form of these TDF, rabbit-fur-lined booties by Vionnet (warm and stylish — YES. — $649, MyTheresa):


I’d finish with a pop o’ red in the form of the Edie purse in flame red ($238, J. Crew) and some ladylike gloves (Agent Provacateur, $500, Net-A-Porter):

Alternately, pair a chubby little sweater (Phillip Lim, $589, MyTheresa) with a structured mini (Maje, $240, Net-A-Porter) –


– and finish with some classy pointed-toe pumps (I kinda dig the entire Ivanka Trump collection…$119, Heels) and a leopard pouchette (Jerome Dreyfuss, $220, Shopbop):

 

The materials are so heavy that jewelry might look a little outrageous on top, so — I would probably only add a pair of simple studs ($110, BaubleBar), a ladylike watch ($54, ASOS), and a funky little ring (I’ve had my eye on this two-finger style for awhile…knuckle dusters are usually so aggressive and scary, but this glossy gold style caught my eye and could look interesting paired with luxe accessories and a ladylike get up — $52, Amazon):

 

Alternately, test out the inverse: a cozy turtleneck sweater ($55, J. Crew) and a heathered gray flannel skirt with a built-in camel waistband (Giambattista Valli, on sale for $453, TheOutnet), topped with a fur scarf (Adrienne Landau, $350, Bloomingdale’s):

Finish with some uber-high heels (ugh, d.i.e. over these Casadei tootsies — they’d go with everything…and also break your legs — $1,015, TheCorner) and a color-blocked tote ($425, DKNY):

You may have noticed that this is The Season of The Cape.  Test it out yourself with this foolproof J. Crew style in timeless gray flannel/camel leather trim ($395, J. Crew), blue skinnies, and some snakeskin flats ($118, Ann Taylor):

 

I’d finish with this envelope clutch ($37, ModCloth), and some classic jewelery pieces, including a monogrammed signet ring ($398, SarahChloe), an Hermes enamel bangle (want.so.bad. — $570, Hermes), an a studded bangle or two (NOIR, $75, Zappos):

 

 

For something a bit bolder for those of you fearless fashionistas out there, why not wear a ladylike printed blouse ($66, Debenhams) with a pair of flannel-effect shorts (Maje, $195, Net-A-Porter), some black tights, and some polished flats (Sam Edelman, $107, MyWardrobe)?


 

I’d top it all off with a camel cape ($292, JoanShepp) and an awesome felt-and-leather tote (I own this puppy in brown leather and get compliments on it every day of my life — $149, Zara):

 

Alternately, consider a white bow-front blouse ($16, H&M), a leopard scarf (YSL, $819, MyTheresa), and a gray flannel mini ($20, H&M):

I’d pair it with black tights and python-effect pumps (Pour La Victoire, $250, JoanShepp):

 

I’d update the look with this cape ($87, Dorothy Perkins) and a ladylike bag ($425, Rebecca Minkoff):

I’d pair with a wrap watch (Michael Kors, $225, Net-A-Porter), some simple gold studs ($45, Charm&Chain), and a chunky ring ($62, Noir):

Finally — a few top “separates” that can blend into a well-heeled fall wardrobe: a schoolboy blazer ($188, J. Crew)

Or maybe a felt/flannel shoe, like this bow-toe flat ($112, Heels) accompanied by a printed scarf ($245, Chan Luu) and a calf-hair tassel wallet ($195, Rag&Bone):

 

Or pair a leopard clutch ($890, Net-A-Porter) and test-drive this season’s epic shoewear style — the “sloafer” — in gray flannel ($119, Nordstrom):

And, finally, this awesome boxy cardi ($211, MyWardrobe) and an update on the classic wedge ($150, Ivanka Trump):

Woo!  I’m all into fall.

Animal Planet

In Accessories, Black, Fierce, Fur, Jewelry, Leopard, Shoes, Winter Weather, Work Wear on September 19, 2011 at 11:32 am

This fall, it’s all about animal prints and textures.  I realized this after discovering that the entirety of my fall wish-list could qualify as “wildlife inspired”: tortoise-shell accent pieces; shoes in calf-hair and snakeskin; luxe fur pieces; and all.things.leopard.  So here we go, into the wild.  First up: how TDF would you look waltzing into work with this little dress ($475, Rag & Bone), a pendant necklace (how uh-may-zing is this embellished fox version?! — Roberto Cavalli, $1,310, Net-A-Porter), some black tights, and a killer pair of black booties (especially this snakeskin-effect pair — House of Harlow, $295, Shopbop)?

While we’re in the mood to be impractical (hellooo, daydreaming about tights when it’s still 90 degrees outside…), I’d top it all off with this M Missoni cape (must.have.a.cape.for.fall, and I applaud Anh of 9-to-5 Chic for already rocking her own in the dwindling days of summer — $1,195, Net-A-Porter) and a simple black bag (love this ladylike style for fall with the tough-gal gold studs on the side! — $495, Rebecca Minkoff):

 

Ummm dying.  For something transitional, consider a sleeveless, snakeskin-print blouse ($195, AllSaints) tucked into a black pencil skirt (DVF, on sale for $152, Boutique1), with a gold collar necklace worn outside/on top of the blouse, as a collar ($145, Rosena Sammi):

 

I’d finish with some polished cap-toe flats (I’ve been on the hunt for a replacement pair, and these found their way onto my shortlist — Kelsi Dagger, $89, PiperLime), and — drumroll please — my current obsession of the universe, the Alexander Wang Emile tote (O.M.G. — just spent earlier this afternoon roaming around Barney’s, and this bag literally leapt off the shelf and into my soul.  It sells itself.  Go check it out and cry over its perfectness.  Lots of other Wang styles are a bit too “edgy” for me, but the Emile has the perfect blend of ladylike structure and downtown chic.  AH! — $975, Shopbop):

 

EEEE.  Want.  I’d round it all out with a classic leather watch (love this “Rachel Zoe pick” — Timex, $60, PiperLime) and an animal cut-out bangle ($80, Net-A-Porter):

Alternately, I like the idea of this sick art deco necklace ($298, Jene de Spain) atop a simple white sheath dress ($450, Rag & Bone)

 

I’d finish with these leopard tootsies (die — what a steal! — $140, PiperLime) –

– and this zebra-accented, quilted handbag (Rebecca Minkoff, $395, Shopbop):

I’d finish with this glossy gold ring ($85, Michael Kors) and this leather cuff (you know I’d prefer the Hermes Collier de Chien style, but this gets the job done and saves a lot of moola — $58, AnnTaylor):


For another look, try a juged up sweater dress (I managed to snag this Missoni for Target style before they all sold out — did anyone else participate in / hear about the fury/frenzy that surrounded the release of this diffusion line?!  OMG, it was maj — and now many of the styles are selling for hundreds and hundreds of dollars on eBay…$50, Target):

In colder months, I might sneak a white turtleneck underneath and wear with black tights — but for now, I will just wear it with a loose-fitting duster cardigan.  Ay any rate, I’d pair with this darling panther bangle ($35, TopShop) –

For footwear, I like these YSL-inspired pumps ($90, ReportFootwear — or get the real deal for $720 at Net-A-Porter).  I can’t resist a major heel like this one — just imagine how much taller I’d be…and with a sweater dress, you have to make sure you use bold, slick accent pieces to avoid looking dowdy.   (I would suggest avoiding anything else that reads “librarian.”  Add a little sex appeal to the look.)  I’d offset with this calf-hair wallet/clutch (“clallet”/”wallutch”? — $195, Rag and Bone):

I also adore this leopard dress ($328, Rebecca Minkoff) — I’d pair it with black tights and a gold tassel necklace/lariat style (the one below is $32, Madewell, but I’m smitten with this $68 Ann Taylor vintage-looking style as well), and the HOH booties cited above:

Perfect with this tiger’s eye ring ($55, ShoptheTrend), a lion’s head leather wrap bracelet ($115, Max&Chloe), and this ladylike wool bag ($295, PourLaVictoire):

On the weekends: try an easy update with a classic, Grace Kelly-esque headband ($28, France Luxe), paired with a chic bomber (ugh, have seen so many of these “bomber/letterman” style jackets and love ‘em — $498, Rebecca Minkoff), skinnies:


 

 

I’d wrap this panther-print scarf ($180, Net-A-Porter) loosely around my neck or would just drape it around my neck once and let it hang open to soften the lean, clean lines of the above outfit –

And then would finish with the leopard version of the Kelsi Daggers featured earlier ($89, PiperLime) and a chic, oversized tote (on sale for $262, PourLaVictoire):

If you’re just looking for a little touch of the animal, try this classy iPhone case (I’ve never used a case, but this may make me change my mind — $34, InCase), or these leopard loafers ($66, TopShop):

And how about this tortoise cuff, while we’re at it ($222, MyWardrobe)?  It all goes great with a deep red mani (I just picked this exact color up as my staple for fall — “Lady Is a Tramp” — $16, DeborahLippmann) and a pair of classic tortoise shades (Thierry Lasry, $375, Opening Ceremony):

 

 

I’m also digging these snakeskin gloves ($228, Intermix) and these eye-catching pumps ($328, MyWardrobe):

Meanwhile, this statement necklace would jazz up any ol white tee or blouse (Kate Spade, $298, Nordstrom), including this dalmatian print blouse ($240, Reiss):

Incidentally, the above would look slick beneath a black fur vest (this one is by Elizabeth and James — $595, LesNouvelles — but mine is by Adrienne Landau), which in turn would look amazing with these calf-hair tootsies ($235, Madewell):

Collar Me Crazy

In Accessories, Black, Brights!, Dream Wear, Jewelry, Pop of Red, Shoes, The Little Lady, Work Wear on September 7, 2011 at 11:51 am

It’s not breaking news to any of us that The Blouse has officially made its return to the well-heeled woman’s wardrobe.  For a long time, I felt as though the word “blouse” fell into the same lexical category as “slacks,” “white sneakers,” and “work pumps,” i.e., “icky older frumpy woman clothing.”  This semi-ungrounded connotation has been carefully and fully disproven over the past season or two, and much of its reinvention can be attributed to the re-birth of the line Equipment.  Since Equipment re-released its famous blouse in 2010 under the creative direction of Current/Elliott’s Serge Azria (the line had first debuted in 1975 and its wares were seen on the likes of Katherine Hepburn), the blouse has made a fierce comeback.  This season, I’ve seen variations on the theme all.over.the.place, including in mass-retailers like Ann Taylor, J. Crew, Zara, H&M, etc., but my favorite lines are Parker, Tucker, and, of course, Equipment.  (Though the Equipment blouse runs big…be prepared to tuck a lot of excess fabric into your belt line.)  Recently, however, it’s not so much the label line I care about as the neck line — I like my blouses collarless.

For example, check out this affordable blouse ($118, Ann Taylor) in emerald green (and PS — J. Crew’s Silk Elodie blouse is nearly identical, comes in a comparable hue, and $8 less), which I’d pair now, in these lingering dog days of summer, with a art deco-esque statement necklace (Antik Batik, $180, Net-A-Porter), a crisp white skirt (that old rule about no-white-after-labor-day is a serious drag — this style is by Giambattista Valli and will cost you a pretty penny, but comparable versions abound at places like Banana Republic and J. Crizzle — $725, Net-A-Porter):


 

I’d finish with these slick puppies (die over them — Givenchy, $590, Net-A-Porter) and a grown-up bag (YSL, around $2K, Matches):

The finishing touches: cat-eye sunnies (yep, still in.love. — Ray Ban, $130, Saks), an Hermes cuff (did anyone else watch the Rachel Zoe premiere and notice that BOTH RZ and her new VP, Mandana, were wearing this?! — ugh, need — $1,050, Hermes), and a swash of orange lip color (I’m mega into YSL’s collection right now):


Another work-wear pick?  This gray collarless blouse-y dress (Dace Virtue, $276, Thistle and Clover), which I’d pair with a poppy-orange scarf ($195, Chan Luu) and a bold, turquoise-accented statement necklace (Gemma Redux, $303, Charm & Chain):

I’d finish with some sort of patterned pump — loving these python pumps (House of Harlow, $304, MyWardrobe):

 

For weekend wear, I’m all about the printed blouse — like this Wren style ($265, Thistle Clover), which would look awesome with white jeans and some tortoise-shell accents, like this chain-link necklace (KJL, $275, Neiman’s), these Elizabeth + James sunnies ($185, Saks), and these slick flats ($138, J. Crew):

 

 

 

I’d finish with an oversized clutch ($139, Clare Vivier):

 

Alternately, this printed wonder (Sea, $311, Steven Alan) would look perfect beneath a blush blazer (Paul & Joe, $170, MyWardrobe), atop some black skinnies and some serious black booties, to toughen things up (Alaia, $780, Browns):


Finish with polished gold accents, like a stack of these Henri Bendel bangles (in mixed metals, if possible — $88 each, Henri Bendel):

A structured tote seals the deal — do we love this clean Rochas style ($990, EditNY)?!

Comparable collarless blouses abound, including this Reiss style ($240) which I absolutely adore and would pair with an oversized dot scarf (like to mix the sizes); this animal print Equipment steal (on sale for $120), which I’d pair with a camel pencil skirt or beneath a fur vest; and this Chanel-esque black-on-white style from Madewell ($120), which I’d pair with a black skirt, black tights, and black pumps for work.  And don’t even get me started on the un.be.liev.a.ble collarless coat options abounding this season — J. Crew had me at their August catalog:

Ugh, need/want/die.

…And we’re back.

In Accessories, Beauty Products, Black, Fierce, Fur, Gym Gear, Jewelry, Leopard, Magpie Must, Pop of Red, Shoes on September 6, 2011 at 11:51 am

Oh, hi.  Just took a casual month-long sabbatical from blogging.  (!)  I’ve been traveling, putzing around, lusting after lots of expensive things, and…working.my.tuchus.off.  But mainly I’ve been missing my bloglet and all of my blogosphere friends, and have, like, a bajillion and 34 new obsessions to share with you, so I’ll just let ‘em roll, Kerouac style, and hopefully by next week, I’ll begin to organize my thoughts into tidy little themed posts.  Until then:

Beauty Magic Tricks

1.  Um, what.  Where have you been all my life, YSL Flash Radiance Brush ($52, Sephora)?  Did anyone else know about this freaking amazing product?  It pretty much airbrushes your face for you, leaving your skin dewy and fresh and, well, Kardashian-like.  I literally went to Sephora on a mad hunt for “something that would make my skin glow,” and, 234 products (and clown-style face of makeup) later, stumbled upon this treat.

(Note to self: be wary of testing makeup at Sephora.  Sneakily enough, the tricksters behind the store have TWO identical-looking bottles of fluid at their application stands.  One is, well, makeup remover.  The other is pure alcohol, which I doused my lips and face in and then nearly vomited up for like an hour.  FYI.)

2.  Fekkai Salon Glaze ($28, Fekkai).  In the summer, my hair turns wind-blown and sun-bleached, which frustrates me, because I love glossy locks.  I’ve started to apply this glossing treatment once or twice a week, and am smitten.  (Instructions on box curiously read: “Apply 2-3 times a week or everyday.”  So…what happens if you apply it 5x a week?)  My local CVS just started carrying the Fekkai line, and I’m both delighted and snobbishly weirded out.  (How do Neiman’s and CVS carry the same brands?  Weird.)

3.  Fresh’s “Hesperides” body lotion ($22.50, Fresh).  When my Tocca “Cleopatra” body cream ran out, I decided to try a new scent/formula.  (My life is soooo exciting.)  I settled on Fresh’s “Hesperides,” and pretty much can’t stop smelling myself.  Love.  Smells like a freshly-juiced grapefruit, which is, coincidentally, my current favorite ingredient in the universe — after a long weekend at the Delaware beaches, I fell in love with the local “Grapefruit Crush” drink (vodka plus freshly squeezed grapefruit plus sweetener), and pretty much have been recreating it on a weekly basis.

4.  I’m not a big “bold lip” gal, even though I’ve been testing the waters lately, but on the above-referenced afternoon I spent at Sephora, I tried pretty much every lip color on the planet.  And fell in love with a soft peony pink color called “rose carnation” by YSL ($30, Sephora).  It looks natural, but polished.  Wearable everyday.  Plus, that glossy gold packaging leaves me smiling any ol day :)

5.  DiorShow black mascara ($24.50, Sephora).  Nothing new, just showing it some love because it’s pretty much the best invention ever.  I live in it.

6.  I’ve been living in super-bright orange, red, and pink nail polishes this summer, and grew particularly fond of Deborah Lippmann’s “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” ($16, Barney’s).

 

For these transitional months, however, I’ve been loving Essie’s “Barefoot and Topless” ($8), a pink-lavender-beige blend.  And when it hits the dead of winter, I’ll test drive some darker reds.

Working It.

I may or may not have listened to Beyonce’s “Love On Top” five times in a row while on my evening run the other day.  I had to literally pry my fingers off the repeat button or I would have listened to it another five times and run the entire way listening to her awesomeness — Mr. Magpie always scolds me for loving things too much and over-using them and then tiring of them quickly.  It’s true, and it’s a problem.  I can’t tell you how many “favorite new snacks” and “favorite new drinks” (cf. my comment about grapefruit crushes above) and “favorite new outfits” I’ve ruined by loving them too much.  But anyway.  “Love On Top” = pure gold.  It reminds me of old school Mariah Carey (anyone who dislikes her should show herself to the door), and I dig it — I dare you to listen to it without wanting to bounce around with a cheesy grin on your face.  PLUS.  Did you see her perform the song at the VMAs?!  I mean, my sister and I were literally dancing on top of the sofa with glee, and when she did the big pregnancy reveal at the end, we actually shrieked.*  OK, so I may be overselling this single, but check it out, and let me know.

*Shrieking/gleeful behavior may have been influenced by champagne.

Also consider downloading GaGa’s “You and I” (l.o.v.e.), Rihanna’s “Cheers,” Dev’s “In the Dark” (everyone needs a little techno on the ol playlist), and all things Lupe Fiasco.  The latter has been a personal favorite of mine for years now, but Mr. Magpie and I had him playing over the long weekend, and we both were obsessing over him.  (Check out “Daydream,” “Kick Push,” and “All Black Everything” — my personal favorites.)

Clothing Obsessions du Jour

1.  Sloafers.  I was already dying over “sloafers” in early August, so now I’m chomping at the bit.  My top pick is the Sam Edelman “Alvin” in leopard ($150, Shopbop), which I’d wear with skinnies and a menswear oxford stripe button-down or tunic, big statement necklace, and slouchy tote.

 

A close second: these House of Harlow haircalf flats ($188).  Has my interest in this style been made possible by virtue of the Toms phenomenon (no, you will never see this little lady in those toilet paper shoes — no offense to those of you who rock them; I know they are popular right now, and for a good cause, but…no.)?  A close tie for second: the  J. Crew “Darby” — more expensive than the Edelman model, but I’m digging the gray ($275).  Whatever you do, don’t get this style in the patent fabrication — ew, yuck, barf.  For some reason, they look geek-chic in a fab kind of way in the leopard, but with all that sticky-looking patent, it looks more like Aladdin poured honey all over his feet.  Sorry, Jenna Lyons — for the million and ten things you do right, there’s got to be one clunker out there.  Within that million and ten: this Edie leopard crossbody ($448, J. Crew), which I’m absolutely foaming at the mouth to own.

2.  Edie Crossbody

Love at first sight, no?!  I mean, I just die at the thought of wearing it with a silky button-down blouse ($48, Dorothy Perkins), some skinnies, some black ankle booties (these Zanottis are divine — $795, Intermix), maybe a black fur vest (Elizabeth + James, $595, LesNouvelles)?!  Drool.

These House of Harlows ($295) look strikingly similar to the above Zanottis — but cost 1/3 of the price.  Tempting.  Also tempting in the leopard fabrication, but…would that be “too, too”?

3.  Chloe Fold-Down Boots.  I ordered a pair of leopard booties last month, but when they came I decided I just couldn’t see myself wearing them enough to justify the price tag…and preferred to instead save up for these money See By Chloe bootskis ($580).  Check them out — do you not love the button-down feature?  I can totally imagine myself rocking the folded-down style with a fur vest in the winter months.  (Also comes in a luxe cognac color, but I’m gravitating towards the grayish-brown — partly because my Loefflers are in cognac, and partly because I feel like the color was sort of “done” last season.)

 

Love you, bootskis.  Get in my closet.  I’d wear you with leggings and tunics, tights and skirts, over skinny jeans.  I just want you now.

P.S.  Can you believe I’m gunning straight for fall (see ya, summer)?  It’s still been hot and muggy here in D.C., but I can’t help but anxiously await sweater weather.  (And today, it was a cool 65 degrees outside!  Woo!)

4.  Colored Denim.  I was hot on this trend earlier this summer, but am still loving it.  So fun to wear red, pink, blue jeans instead of the standard black or dark denim.  I’ve been wearing mine (all of mine are by J. Brand — $176, Barney’s; select colors are now on sale at Shopbop) with loose, blousey tunics (I found and snagged this exact, patterned style at H&M — $29, H&M) and simple flats (Lanvin, $595, Net-A-Porter):

I’d finish with a black roll bag (Givenchy, $1,940, Barney’s) — really into that style at the moment, and this pricey Givenchy makes me very, very jealous.

And this concludes my deconstructionist return to the blogosphere.  More soon (and more structured!)  LOVE to you all.