10 Stylish Boots to Keep Your Tootsies Dry and Warm This Winter

Don't sacrifice style for function this winter. Have it all with these boots!

Merrell Women's Spire Peak Waterproof Boot at ShoeMall.com - Free..., $175
Keen 'Bern High' Boot, $150
Pull On Duck Boot, $89
Waterproof - Women's Boots | Nordstrom.com, $495
Waterproof - Women's Boots | Nordstrom.com, $398
Santana Helena at Zappos.com, $189
Boots, $175
Sperry Top-Sider Sydney Opal - Zappos.com Free Shipping BOTH Ways, $90
Waterproof - Women's Boots | Nordstrom.com, $70
Elegant Faux Fur Wedge Heel Stud Ankle Snow Lace Up Boots L2198


If you're an Ugg girl like me (I was anti Ugg for the longest time, but the truth is they are functional, and perfect for commuters, like I was when I got my first pair) don't forget the waterproof spray.  Not only will it keep your feet dry, but you'll get more life out of your boots by protecting them from those ugly water stains.

lassic Tall Chestnut Boot, 190 GBP
UGG Australia - Water and Stain Repellant for Sheepskin and Suede at..., $8

Winter Blues

Oak Tree Snow Storm by Ansel Adams via SFMOMA

Ever have those days when it seems as if nothing is going your way?  I was so excited for my new shoes (the tapestry ones I was obsessing over) and had so much fun planning my outfits around them, and no matter how many pictures I took I just couldn't get it right!  The lighting was wrong, my pose was awful, it just wouldn't come together.  Then I thought I would make up for it all on Sunday, recreate the outfits and try again.  Then came the blizzard.  An outdoor photo opp was out.  Too dark indoors.  Monday came and went while moving Mom into her new apartment (2 walls of windows and a balcony, so beautiful) and then I wake up today with a scratchy throat and a stuffy nose.  (Note to self:  Don't spend the holidays with sick people)  So here I am relaxing in bed, being generally unproductive, hoping tomorrow will be a better day. 

What to Wear? New Year's Eve

Isabel Marant Gia silk-blend brocade dress, $260
Proenza Schouler / Faux Fur Coat, $2,170
Bebe Shoes James - Gunmetal and Black, $150
Lulu Guinness Swarovski Crystal Lips Clutch Bag, $1,026
Jessica Rose Zigzag large earrings, 350 GBP
Chanel Le Vernis Nail Color Colour Polish Steel Limited Edition, $30
disco ball light: February 2010, $54



I love this look because as I'm sure you can probably tell it reminds me of a disco ball, in a good way.  I mean really, who doesn't want to look like a disco ball? :) Metallic and shine are great for an event like New Year's because it's instantly glamorous.  I added the pops of red to take it to the next level.  I love how they pop against the neutral background.


 Here are a few more party worthy dresses to get you excited!  And check out my post on 25 Party Worthy Shoes, all under $100 to complete the look. 

Notte by Marchesa Ruffled silk-blend chiffon dress, $750
1927 Party Dress > New - OM No 82 | The J. Peterman Company, $598
tiered party dress, $395
One shoulder lace feather dress by McBerry, McBerry Party Wear, Prom..., 225 GBP
View All - Kate Moss - Topshop USA, 60 GBP
Metallic jacquard dress Gold, 80 GBP
Admission Party Dress, $165
Atalie dress, 160 GBP
Dresses - Clothing - Topshop USA, 46 GBP
Strapless Silk Party Dress 0787 , 118 GBP
Dresses - Clothing - Topshop USA, 75 GBP
Amazon.com: Strapless Satin Bubble Dress Prom Formal Holiday Party..., $63

P.S. Originally today's post was supposed to feature the first outfit I styled around these shoes:

Are you sick of looking at these yet?  :)

But, when I went to take pictures today on my way to the office, my battery was dead.  There is just not enough daylight anymore!  Stay tuned next week to see what they inspired.

Have a Happy Holiday Weekend!

See you next week!

What to Wear? Winter Escape

Winter is officially here!  If you are anything like me by the end of the summer you couldn't wait until the cooler weather came.  You were so excited to wear your boots, and throw on a sweater and a coat.  Now that fall is officially over all I can do is dream about jet setting out of here and drinking a frozen margarita on the beach!

If you are lucky enough to get to travel somewhere warm this winter, here is some inspiration on how to go from the beach to the bar!

Zipped linen-blend shorts, $57
FULL TILT Peacock Earrings 172868957 | earrings | Tillys.com
Lanvin Brushed-satin floral brooch, $335
Andrea Jovine Women's A680 Aviator Sunglasses, $47
Amazon.com: Fox Run Large Natural Baking Shells, Set of 4: Home &..., $17
What's New | NET-A-PORTER.COM, $1,900
Amazon.com: Columbia Bayview Straw Purse - Women's: Clothing, $40
Ebw Exclusives - Category | Everything But Water, $74
Ebw Exclusives - Category | Everything But Water, $64
Search Results | Piperlime, $79

I love this red bathing suit.  It's a great unexpected color, and the cut is ideal for us curvy ladies.  Plus the gold details add some posh, perfect for the resort.


Nothing says beach bar like a top that blows in the breeze and a linen short.  The straw sandal is a perfect addition to all of our wardrobes.  It's a great way to add some polish to a casual outfit like the one above, and is easily worn with jeans, shorts, dresses, you name it.  Plus, the color goes with everything, and adds length to the leg line.  I added a brooch to the straw bag to add a pop of color, along with the peacock feather earring.  Throw on a pair of aviators, and you are instantly chic.


Happy Travels!

How NOT to Gain Weight This Holiday Season!

Image via Denimology

By now you have already attended many holiday parties, ate lots of food, cake and probably consumed too much alcohol, and the best part?  For those of us who celebrate Christmas - it's not over yet!  What does all of this have to do with fashion?  I just wanted to share a quick tip with you, that seems obvious once you know it, but is rarely thought of.

During the fall and winter many of us tend to wear leggings, with sweaters and boots etc.  This can be especially true when we are at a Holiday dinner, because hey we like to be comfortable and want our clothes to expand when we experience the dreaded after dinner bloat.

But, if our clothes are expanding, how will we know if we are gaining weight?

According to this article we average an annual weight gain of one pound, the majority of which comes during the holidays.  Although it may not seem like much, it can add up over the years.  Of course this article includes the expected advice of staying active and not letting yourself starve to only stuff yourself later on; but I have something that takes a lot less effort!


disclaimer: This is not me condoning laziness or over indulgence :)


Wear your leggings (and other forgiving pieces) to your heart's content, but put on your jeans on every (other) night before you put on your PJ's.  Sounds silly doesn't it?  But I promise it works.  As soon as you have trouble buttoning your favorite pair, you know it's time to take it easy.  

And that's all :)  Could it be an simpler?

Happy Holiday Indulgence!

Fantastic Friday

Last Friday I had quite the busy day. First I had to go to the office and get set up for a special shopping event on Sunday, (if you knew what my office looked like you'd realize how big of a job that was), run some errands and then it was out with the girls for a friends birthday. Our plans consisted of going to a local watering hole, so I wanted to keep it on the casual side.  Oh, and I was in charge of the cupcakes!

Sadly I got tricked and ended up taking photos in my stair well, when it was actually warmer outside than I had thought. Shame on me. I should have just put on my big girl panties, and braved the temperature outside, what ever it was. :)

 Button Up from Cailey 22, Hudson Jeans, Target Shoes

Oh and if you haven't already noticed, (the day before) I decided to cut some bangs.  I am always going back and forth trying to decide if I want to do it.  Normally my stylist senses my hesitation and points to her own bangs clipped back in a bobby pin.  This time we decided to take the plunge, and although it's only been a couple of days, I'm pretty much in love.  My favorite part is, on Sunday afternoon, after a busy weekend, I can throw my hair into a ponytail and still look polished.  Plus I love the retro feel.

Belt pulled from Jumper by ABS, Jewelry from NYC Jewelry Wholesaler

Now about the outfit. As I've mentioned before I am always cuffing my jeans...it's just my thing so be prepared to see it often.  I love this over-sized boyfriend button down because it's super soft, and a bit sheer which gives it some of sex appeal.  The belt is mandatory to add shape, which in turn adds sophistication.  I opted for a lighter dirty wash denim to add some contrast and the blue patent heels for some shine.  After spending the day in those shoes I realized how uncomfortable they were so when it was time to hit the town with the ladies I swapped them out for my red patent pumps from Aldo, also worn here....and a great choice that was!  Overall I love the effortlessness and the simplicity of it.

Hope you all had a fabulous weekend!

Cyndi Lauper Rocks The House

Image via Pop In Stereo

Last night I had the pleasure of attending the Cyndi Lauper concert held at The Tarrytown Music Hall, in Tarrytown, NY.  Promoting her latest album, the Memphis Blues, Cyndi rocked the stage and brought the crowd to their feet.  After surveying the attendees, it seems that many may have been surprised at the sounds filling the theater, but Cyndi's charismatic personality, love of performing, and the intoxicating sound of the blues hooked them all.

Throughout the evening Cyndi narrated her journey through creating this album, the places she went, the people she collaborated with, and the messages she wants to convey.  She also gave us a peek back into her younger years, before she ever thought she'd be a singer, and tells us never to give up ourselves, because you may be meant to be doing something you aren't even imagining now.  Oh, and the best was when she admitted to having no filter....and being a rambler. Gotta love her!

Of course she could not let us go without performing her classics, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun (with a bluesy twist), Time after Time, and True Colors.  And I have to say it always amazes me that no matter how many in the crowd cannot sing, we still always sound good together :)   

Mercury Madness

For the last few days I have been in somewhat of a funk, and feeling like nothing is working out right. After referring back to Gala Darling's post about Mercury being in Retrograde, I'm thinking I am definitely being affected...and being a Gemini, I'm even more susceptible to its madness since it's my ruling planet.

Whenever I have those days when I feel like doing nothing other than putting on sweatpants and crawling into bed, but it's not an option, I attempt to perk up my day by putting on a pair of heels. It doesn't necessarily have to be the highest or funkiest pair I own, it just has to be a pair of heels. Since it was super cold today, and the conditions outside weren't ideal considering the snow we received last night, I decided boots would be best. I opted for these red ones I got at Aldo a couple years back. The shape and color have a vintage feel to them which I love, and the thick heel is super supportive and easy to walk in.  Plus, because the color has a bit of an orange tinge to them they sort of take on whatever color family I want them to.

Central Park West Blazer, Lofli Jeans, Aldo Boots

(Crappy photo above, I know, totally took the pics on the wrong setting but didn't realize until it was too late.  See, I told you something was off.)
                                     
The next thing I do to help put a smile on my face, is wear something furry!  Faux of course, but so soft and cozy.  I know you can't tell from the sour puss on my face in the pic below but I swear I'm happier now :)  Somehow I like my "tough" pictures best, silly.

Funny thing too, this is one of those "go to" outfits, whenever I am feeling uninspired, I throw it on and instantly feel put together.  It's the blazer I know it.

Scarf ?, Sanctuary Fur Coat, Louis Vuitton Neverfull Bag

So, what do you do when you are feeling down to perk up your mood?  Do you have a "go to" outfit too?

2011 Golden Globe Nominations

 

Josh Duhamel, Katie Holmes and Blair Underwood  to announce Golden Globe Nominations
Image via InStyle.Com

Most of us fashionistas look forward to the Golden Globes to check out who's wearing what...but it's really about honoring the achievements of those "who's"

Get the story from In Style here

Dear Santa

I told Santa, (aka Mom) not to get me any big presents this year, I am planning quite a big move in April, and any help she can provide in funding it (Love You Mom!) would be considered my Christmas gift.  Unfortunately it doesn't mean there aren't other things I want, and when shopping for others we inevitably add to our own wish list...

Touch My Fur Leather and Faux Fur Vest, $154
Shop Women's Pumps at ALDOshoes.com, $90
SPAZIANO - women's high heels shoes flowers, $80  (I've showed you these shoes twice, can you tell I'm obsessed?)
MICHAEL Michael Kors Reversible Skinny Belt, $28
Buy Twilight Cds, New Moon DVDS, and Books, $17
Amazon.com: Kinect Sensor with Kinect Adventures!: Video Games, $195
Desert Peasant Tunic at Free People Clothing Boutique, $78
Aldo - DEZENZO || Clipped By Jαy♣Kαy, 70 GBP
black-high-waisted-sequin-shorts-hotpants
Army Tunic With Beads in Olive: Buy M. Fredric Clothing at...

Caped Crusader

Since temperatures hit the mid 40's on Saturday I thought it was a perfect day to expose my ankles, I missed them, and I really wanted to wear my cargo pants. The cape was the perfect compliment, and I added the white long sleeve tee to add a some brightness to the dark color scheme.  I rarely wear sweaters, as I tend to be very hot...but this cape is perfect because it has lots of room to breathe. 

Alternative Apparel tee, Cape from DEPT, Cargos by Almost Famous and Shoes from Bamboo

The camera caught me fixing my hair, but it worked out well to show the shape of the cape.

Gift Guide: The Grab Bag

Many times at holiday gatherings that include extended family or friends a grab bag, white elephant, whatever you call it, is the most cost effective and least stressful way to exchange gifts. This is especially true in today's hard times. Of course this can be especially difficult, because you have find items that can appeal to a number of different people. Here are a few ideas, and check out my post from yesterday here, highlighting Coffee Table Books, a great gift for everyone!

Happy Holiday shopping this weekend!

Wine Sack, $70
Pocket Solar Charger, $70
15-in-1 Game | Gift Shop | SkyMall, $40
Gadget, Laptop & Cell Phone Car Charger, $40
Pegallery photo tray, $40
Picnic Baskets, Picnic Totes | UncommonGoods, $35
Leather Coaster Set, $29
Storus Smart Valet Tray | Gift Shop | SkyMall, $25
Bookends Shop at Just Bookends

Gift Guide: The One Who Has Everything

Every year there is always that one person on your holiday list who literally has everything, and you are left to wonder what could you possibly get them that can live up to the goodies they already own? Well, if you are like me and lack the DIY skills to come up with something one of a kind, the next best thing is The Coffee Table Book! Few people purchase them on their own, and with endless options in every category you can think of, not to mention varying price points, there is something out there for everyone. They also make a great gender neutral grab bag gift.

Here are a few picks to start your quest!

Amazon.com: Yves Saint Laurent, $35
The Hermes Scarf: History & Mystique (9780500515181): Nadine Coleno:…, $168
Amazon.com: Mad Men: The Illustrated World (9780399536571): Dyna Moe:..., $10
Amazon.com: Lonely Planet The Travel Book (9781741792119): Lonely..., $19
Amazon.com: Emilio Pucci (9783836507363): Vanessa Friedman, Armando..., $126
Amazon.com: 75 Years Of DC Comics: The Art Of Modern Mythmaking..., $126
Amazon.com: Louis Vuitton: 100 Legendary Trunks (9780810982475):..., $79
Amazon.com: Never Can Say Goodbye: The Katherine Jackson Story..., $40
Amazon.com: New York Parties: Private Views (9780847834037): Jamee..., $35
Amazon.com: Music (9780810996526): Andrew Zuckerman: Books, $32
Amazon.com: The Coffee Table Photo Book to Motivate and Inspire You..., $30
Amazon.com: Room for Children: Stylish Spaces for Sleep and Play..., $30
UrbanOutfitters.com > A Day in the Life of the Beatles By Don McCullin, $25
Amazon.com: Drunk Stoned Brilliant Dead: The Writers and Artists Who..., $24
Amazon.com: Drives of a Lifetime: 500 of the World's Most Spectacular..., $24
Amazon.com: The Modern Mixologist: Contemporary Classic Cocktails..., $23
Amazon.com: 50 Aircraft That Changed the World (9781554076581): Ron..., $22
Amazon.com: Vintage Fashion: Knitwear: Collecting and Wearing Designer..., $22
Amazon.com: Make The Most Of Your Time On Earth: 1000 Ultimate Travel..., $20
Amazon.com: JFK: Day by Day: A Chronicle of the 1,036 Days of John F...., $18

Imagine...

As I mentioned the other day with my Gift Guide: The Music Aficionado, my passion for music is right up there with fashion.  More specifically, one of my favorite songs of all time is Imagine by John Lennon.  (So much so that it is tattooed on my foot.)  If you aren't familiar, you should be (IMO) listen to it here.

Image via Rolling Stone

Last night, Rolling Stone shared unreleased clips of John's last interview before his death (30 years ago, today) and other fun tidbits about the beloved musician on their website.  Check out the article here.

Related articles

• Lennon's Final Interview in 'Rolling Stone' (abcnews.go.com)

What to Wear? Holiday House Party

With the Holiday Season in full swing and our in-boxes full of party invitations, we will inevitably standing in our closets asking ourselves, what am I going to wear?

Here's a menswear inspired take on a not so traditional Holiday Party Outfit, perfect for a casual gathering at a friends house. The look started with the shoes, as it often does for me.  I've always been a sucker for a black and white wing tip, and with the addition of the sky high platform I am instantly in love. The pleated pants are a great substitute for jeans when you want a little extra polish, and the sequin blazer brings the whole look together.  I added the bow clutch for a feminine touch and kept the earrings simple as to not compete with the blazer.

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania Fulfilment washed-silk top, $335
ABS Allen Schwartz Short Sequin Jacket, $135
Valentino Bow-embellished satin clutch, $795
Round Diamond Stud Earrings (1/2 ct.tw.) in 18K White Gold, $950
Wide Navy Blue Enamel Ornamental Hinged Bangle Bracelet (Silver Tone), 11 GBP
Black & Ivory Crystal Zebra Pattern Enamel Hinged Bangle Bracelet..., 9.25 GBP
Thin Classic Black Enamel Hinged Bangle Bracelet (Silver Tone), 7 GBP
Lauren G. Adams Spikes Black Ring - Max and Chloe, $96
BKE Pinstripe Fedora Hat, $20
Steve Madden Slick Pleated Pant Black - Zappos.com Free Shipping BOTH..., $44
5.75 Inch High Heel Spectator Maryjane * Teeze-02

Shearling Shorts

I decided to dedicate this week to gift guide posts, and had these shorts waiting in the wings, but I didn't want to wait anymore...they are just too fabulous not to share!  Plus at a price of around $88, they are a steal!  This is especially true because they are sooo classic, you'll be wearing them for years to come.

Shorts - Mixed - Byxor & Shorts - Dam - Modekungen | Kläder, Skor och..., 66 EUR

Gift Guide: For Him

From fun to sophisticated there something here for your man. Check out the sites these items came from for other great items...there were so many, I almost couldn't decide.

By the way...my favorite?  The bacon flavored envelopes. Genius!

UrbanOutfitters.com > Lego Stormtrooper Watch, $30
Superhero Stamp Cuff Links, $90
Brushed Nickel Watch Case, $80
Leather Beer Holster from RedEnvelope.com, $30
Christmas Stocking Stuffers | UncommonGoods, $17
Christmas Stocking Stuffers | UncommonGoods, $15
Christmas Stocking Stuffers | UncommonGoods, $10
UrbanOutfitters.com > Bling Ring Bottle Opener, $8
Christmas Stocking Stuffers | UncommonGoods, $7

Gift Guide: The Music Aficionado

Here is the first installment of this week's gift guides. I started with the music lover, because, well it basically shares the spotlight with fashion in my life. Music inspires me, and I've always felt the two go hand in hand.

Crosley Revolution USB Turntable- Red, $180
GUITAR STRING BRACELETS | Guitars, Strings, Bracelet, Jewelry, Pink,..., $10
Christmas Stocking Stuffers | UncommonGoods, $18
Christmas Stocking Stuffers | UncommonGoods, $10
Mini Amplifier Speaker, $25
Wave Music System – SoundLink - Bose Wireless Systems - Digital Music...
Bose QuietComfort 15 Noise Cancelling Headphones
Beatbox - Beats by Dr. Dre by Monster
Heartbeats by Lady Gaga Headphones with ControlTalk® - Beats by Dr....

Happy Holiday Shopping!

Burlesque

Image via Moviesbase.net

 The music, the dancing, the costumes, the makeup...I loved it all!

I've read some very differing reviews, but whether the movie wins any awards or not, it will likely live on long after it's time in the limelight.  I already know that both my Mother and I will be dancing around our apartments with the soundtrack blasting.  Christina and Cher both show us what they are made of and belt out the tunes like it's no one's business...what a fabulous sound.

The story isn't exactly groundbreaking, or unpredictable, but it really doesn't even matter.  I always love a story about people fighting to achieve their dreams, or to hold on to them for that matter.  For me, it's less about the story and more about the show...which doesn't disappoint in my eyes.

Now...my favorite part, the COSTUMES!  Beautiful, gorgeous...totally know what I'm wearing next Halloween (or sooner if I can find a reason.)  I've rounded up some pictures from the web...

Image via WPIX.Com

Image via Miss Independent

 

Image via Idolator.com

 

Oh yea, and having this kind of eye candy never hurts!

Image via Daemonsmovies.com

25 Party Worthy Shoes all Under $100

FAWSON - women's high heels shoes for sale at ALDO Shoes., $80
Nine West 'Ilsa' Sandal, $100
GUESS 'Petita' Pump, $99
Slithering Rosette Heels, $98
Tritone Trumpet Heels, $98
ANGELICA - New This Week - Bakers Footwear, $70
Chinese Laundry Haylie Boots, $89
Lauren Jones 'Franci' Sandal, $85
Shop Women's Sandals at ALDOshoes.com, $80
Womens Shoes | Designer | Platform – Love My Shoes, $80
Women's Shoes, $79
Killah 'Xara' Pump, $75
Shop Women's Pumps at ALDOshoes.com, $70
Shop Women's Pumps at ALDOshoes.com, $70
BP. 'Summer' Satin Pump, $70
Chinese Laundry 'Lyndia S' Pump, $70
Steve Madden 'Laineyy' Peep Toe Pump, $70
Womens Shoes | Designer | Platform – Love My Shoes, $60
Womens Shoes | Designer | Platform – Love My Shoes, $60
Everlasting Emerald Heel, $50
Womens Shoes | Designer | Platform – Love My Shoes, $45
Satin Rosette Heels, $30
Open Toe Heels With Flower, $23
Shop Women's Pumps at ALDOshoes.com, $60
MARY - New This Week - Bakers Footwear, $90

Neutral Territory

Even if I am not actively shopping, I am still perusing the web just to see what's out there. Here are some pieces I fell in love with...super cool, sexy, and cozy for the fall and winter...plus, I was drawn to the Neutral colors in all of the pieces.

ALICE by Temperley Trophy knitted cropped cardigan, $225
Stella McCartney, $1,895
Diane von Furstenberg Lexi Jacket, $595
Rogan Lotus Poncho - Whiteout, $360
Pants, $1,995
The Row Comet cropped leather pants, $1,700
Thakoon / Wedge Boot with Lace Up Flap, $1,045
ASOS WHITE WOOLY Shearling Boot, $216
3.1 Phillip Lim / "Cameron" Purse, $475
gold polka dot zip purse, $53
Spine Bracelet, 1,120 GBP
MARC BY MARC JACOBS Patent Strap Oversized Watch, $200