From The Man Himself...

Happy Halloween.

Image via toptenz.net

Although I have no plans to dress up this year, I simply adore Halloween. If I were dressing up I'd chose to wear a heavy black crepe structured dress and these Maison Michel rabbit ears. Who says you can't be festive and chic at the same time? 

Counter Culture.

Confession: I am a beauty product junkie. Any makeup emporium is comparable to a candy store in my world, and I LOVE to sample the goods. Although I always have my tried and true favorites, I enjoy playing around, testing new products, trying the newest, hottest, latest. I've lucked out with several really great products lately, and they're too good not to share!

1. If there's one thing I am obsessed with, it's lashes. I am completely preoccupied with creating the longest, blackest, most lush eyelashes possible. In fact, when I get eyelash extensions I always beg the technician to make me look like Snuffleupagus from Sesame Street. (No, really.) In between, when I'm forced to use mascara, nothing usually compares to extensions... until now. I received a mini tube of Benefit's They're Real mascara in my Sephora birthday gift and I am hooked. Previously, I've always been majorly underwhelmed with Benefit's mascara- Bad Gal flakes, their discontinued Get Bent did nothing for me, but They're Real? I may never need eyelash extensions again. I LOVE it that much. You can find it here.
2. I ordered Chantecaille's Les Macarons palette a while ago and it's only just come into regular rotation, but I am thoroughly enjoying it. It's a small palette, comprised of 2 eyeshadows, a blush, a highlighter, and a lip gloss and all the shades are so beautiful and flattering, the lip gloss in particular. It's a perfect pink with gold flecks so it reflects light beautifully and doesn't need frequent touch ups. Grab yours here.

Today.

Image via thedailymail.co.uk

Prince George of Cambridge was christened today in London. This is hands down my favorite shot- his mother, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge regal in bespoke Alexander McQueen, and Prince George in a replica of Queen Victoria's christening gown. Lovely.

Image via thedailymail.co.uk

This shot is lovely as well. 

The Essentials: Wardrobe Staples 11-15

We're going to finish up the list with items I'd describe as frosting. I've covered all the garments that are necessary, so here are some accessories that will liven up those basics!

Image via Chanel.com

11. Red lipstick- I don't care what you've been told in the past, there's a flattering shade of red lipstick for everyone. If you are paler it's wise to choose a color with blue undertones, and if you're more olive skinned a shade with orange undertones will suit you best. It's worth it to play around until you find the right one. Don't say you can't carry it off either- studies have shown men look longer at women with red lips. If that isn't an incentive, I don't know what is. Red lips will up your sex appeal and pull your look together.

12. Gold Watch- With the invention of cell phones I've seen many people stop wearing watches and it's frustrating. Watches are one of the most classic and functional pieces of jewelry one can own! Also if you invest in something as nicely made as a Cartier watch it can become a family heirloom that can be passed down to your children and grandchildren! I prefer a chunky gold watch, even a man's watch because there's something a little naughty about looking like you snagged your man's watch. A definite must have in my book.

Sunglasses by Ray Ban
Image via net-a-porter.com

13. Sunglasses- Sunglasses, or sunnies as I call them, are one of my favorite accessories. They are the epitome of chic and glamour, and an easy item of incognito when need be. My favorite sunglasses designer is Tom Ford but if you would like something at a lower price point you can't go wrong with a classic pair of Ray Bans, either the Wayfarer or the Aviator. The Wayfarers were of course sported by Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's and the Aviators were sported by basically everyone in Top Gun. You can't go wrong with either stylish classic!

Boots by Hermes
Image via taryncoxthewife.com

14. Riding Boots- I chose riding boots over any other for a few reasons. One, they are both comfortable and functional. They're easy to run around in, and can paired with almost anything. Two, because although a black heeled boot is just as chic, heel height and width and toe shape can vary season to season, and who wants to be left with no footwear because a skinny kitten heel is the shape du jour and you only own a 4 inch block heel? Riding boots are the safest choice and who doesn't want to give off the illusion they just came from the ring?

Image via diamondstudsource.com

15. Diamond Studs- Last but not least, a simple diamond earring should be in every girl's jewelry wardrobe. They are just as relevant out to lunch as they are at the Oscars. Who doesn't love a little sparkle near their face? A classic stud will take you through literally every occasion you could possibly attend, and again have the potential to become an heirloom one day.

Go ahead, add that pink sequin minidress and that chartreuse sweater. They'll be your friends too! Just make sure you have your wardrobe essentials to tie all your friends together.

Touche.

Image via thecollegeprepster.com

Then and Now.

The Hermes Kelly bag, as styled by Grace Kelly and Ashley Olsen.

Currently Coveting.

Images via ahalife.com

Defining one's personal style is an endless task. I most certainly have experimented and made more than my share of mistakes in order to discover not only what works for my body and my lifestyle, but also in order to define what I truly love. I tend to gravitate towards classic pieces that are feminine and sophisticated. However, to avoid looking too overly girly I like to counterbalance my outfits with edgier accessories, especially jewelry. I like the juxtaposition of a flowy blouse with a metal cuff. I think chiffon looks chic paired with leather. I am not afraid of a stud, or a spike, and I've never met a sparkly statement necklace I didn't like. So when I first laid eyes on these cuff bracelets by Lele Sadoughi, I was elated because they embody my personal style so innately; feminine with a bit of edge. I love that they are slightly reminiscent of handcuffs, yet they are studded with pearls and sparkles. I would be more than happy to sport a wrist full of these, no matter the outfit. They are most certainly high on my wishlist! You can find them, along with other stunning pieces by Lele Sadoughi here.

October.

For me, fall feels fleeting. In the blink of an eye, the weather has gone from Indian summer to frigidly freezing winter, and I've somehow missed the precious weeks of golden leaves, and temperatures that are best described as "crisp." Inevitably I barely have enough time to make my way through the bucket list I concoct each fall of autumnal activities. October is easily the bulk of this precious season, and this year I'm not playing around. I plan on making the most of my favorite month and indulging in some seasonal delights. What might my plans entail? 

• Making the most of this glorious weather- apple picking, pumpkin picking, and if my allergies behave, a hayride or two.
• Seasonal recipe planning- Paleo apple crisp, parsnip fries, apple cider, pumpkin spice lattes, and pumpkin brownies.
• Mastering several DIYs- pumpkin carving, zinnia planting, and if I'm really ambitious, knitting.
• Down time with my favorite scary movies- Halloween, Hocus Pocus, and The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown are requisite October viewing.

This year I'm actually ahead of the curve- I've already baked pumpkin brownies and parsnip fries, watched Hocus Pocus (twice!), and indulged in multiple pumpkin spice lattes. Bring on October! (Oh, and how hysterical is this?)

The Essentials: Wardrobe Staples 6-10

As much as I enjoy buying up every autumn inspired item in sight,  I rely on essential wardrobe staples to tie everything together. I previously discussed the quintessentials including a trench, and a little black dress, (see them here) and today I'd like to share the next 5 in my series...

Bag by Chanel
Image via bagsnob.com

6. Black Bag- I always consider my bag to be my car. I lug around every necessity (and every frugality) I can fit. I'd be truly lost without it. While I love my grandmother's vintage clutch bags, and my worn in Michael Kors Astor tote, the one quintessential bag every woman should own is a classic black bag, the Chanel 2.55 being the most classic of all. This is a piece akin to the trench, any woman, any age can carry it, it will never go out of style, and well, just look! It's gorgeous! I think I need to invest in several as I don't want my future grandchildren to argue!

Alexander McQueen jacket.
Image via net-a-porter.com

7. Leather Jacket- Once reserved for bikers, the leather jacket now looks just as fabulous thrown over a ball gown as it does over jeans. The perfect way to add some edge to your every day, a leather jacket is both at once edgy and classic. It is James Dean and Anne Hathaway all rolled into one!

Chloe t-shirt
Image via net-a-porter.com

8. White Shirt- Everyone needs a clean canvas to build their outfit on. There is room to play with this item. While I prefer a white tee for its versatility, a white button down is a perfect acceptable and chic substitute-Sharon Stone wore a Gap button down to the Oscars once! Wear it to the grocery store, wear it to a ball, this item is a classic and a staple.

Mimi Holliday by Damaris bra.
Image via net-a-porter.com

9. The Perfect Undergarment- Undergarments are the foundation of an outfit. Every woman should know her proper cup size. Once you have obtained that information, play to your heart's desire. I recommend doing as the French do and wear the most expensive matching sets you can afford. It will give you that extra boost of confidence, not to mention a sexy secret.

The Row blazer.
Image via net-a-porter.com

10. Blazer- A blazer is another versatile essential. I would recommend one in blue or black, but there is most certainly room to play. There are many different cuts and styles so it's best to try on a few options before you commit. The perfect blazer will take you from the board room to an evening out and look just as flattering with jeans as it will with a sexy dress. Whether you choose a navy schoolboy blazer or a classic black tuxedo, it's a smart investment that will stand the test of time.

To be continued...

Fall Fever.

Image via instagram.com

Confession: I don't get spring fever. There's something mildly cringe inducing about the thought of baring my white as a ghost flesh all of a sudden in strappy dresses, and sandals after being confined to cozy sweaters and knee high boots for 6 months. I do however, experience fall fever, and when it hits, it hits hard. I long for the first chill in the air, the first excuse to break out the cashmere, the time of year where dark, rich nail polish colors don't look out of place. I love it. Fall fashion is simply the best from the luxurious fabrics including silk, cashmere, and leather, to the rich palate of colors- deep burgundy, camel, and all shades of black. This year I've been extra attentive with finding my fall fashion inspirations and I want to share a few with you...

I believe the key to fabulous fall dressing is layering textures. Faux fur fits fabulously over chunky knits and wooly leggings. A large leather bag is the perfect finishing touch.

Camel colored leather pairs perfectly with thick cable knits and waxed denim.

Color is a perfect proponent to play with. 

Ignore staid wardrobe dictations and wear winter white.

Animal prints are the new neutrals. Pair them with bold jewel tones.

Lastly, finish off your fabulous fall look with a pop of color and a touch of shine.

Chunky bold jewelry looks luxe next to sumptuous fabrics.

Dress up your look with a feminine heel in a contrasting color.

Happy fall!

What I Want To Wear.

Fall is officially here and I am elated! Unfortunately, the weather isn't quite cool enough to pull out sweaters and tights, so in order to utilize pieces I've already purchased, I will be relying on layering. I've already purchased this fabulous wine colored Kain dress. Perfect alone, as the weather cools I will be completing my outfit during the day with fabulous sweaters, and at night I will adding a leather jacket. I haven't found the right one yet, but how perfect is this Rick Owens jacket? I'm dying for a leather jacket with draped lapels. I purchased the Rag & Bone Newbury booties back in June in anticipation of fall, but I'd also like to add a boot that is a bit dressier. These Zara booties are versatile and the price is right. I didn't intend to buy anything from Target's collaboration with 3.1 Phillip Lim, but when I saw the mini Pashli in black, I couldn't help myself. I like it better than the original!  I love myself a leopard print, and this leopard scarf from Oasis is the perfect topper to a chic transitional outfit.  Happy fall!

Iconic Image.

Image via condenast.com

Audrey Hepburn's outtakes from her various Vogue shoots are among my favorite in fashion. This particular shot is from a 1964 shoot, and I adore it. In fact, I love it so much it's my iPhone wallpaper. 

Em-mazing.

The Emmy Awards red carpet is always an interesting one. It's not quite as fancy as the Golden Globes, but it's a step up above the SAGs. I am typically completely underwhelmed by what walks the Emmy red carpet, but this year I was pleasantly surprised. 

Claire Danes looked absolutely ethereal in this plunging v-neck Armani Prive gown. I love that she kept the hair simple and the makeup and jewels minimal and was able to avoid looking like an overdone poodle. 

I fear I may be in the minority, but I LOVE Julianne Hough's Jenny Packham gown. She has really snuck her way onto my fashion radar in the last year, and with good reason. My first glimpse of this gown was on her Instagram and I was intrigued from the start. While I would love this dress without the transparent skirt, I think it really gives some edge to an otherwise girly gown. Imagine the Duchess of Cambridge strolling the red carpet in this one!

Padma Lakshmi really shines in this ice blue creation by Kaufman Franco. I simply adore the minimalist cut, as well as the open back. Again, I love that she chose little in the way of accessories; the gold earrings and big bold cuff are the perfect compliments to this stunning look.

All images via thedailymail.co.uk

Looks I Love.

Image via dailymail.co.uk

Image via omg.yahoo.com

This week, my favorite looks favor simple silhouettes, and monochromatic color palettes. I've alway been a big believer that simple is chic! 

In my book, GP does no wrong. I am such an avid admirer of her simplistic and chic style; she can say so much, with so little. When she turned up on the red carpet earlier this week at the premiere for her new movie "Thanks For Sharing," she did not disappoint. Gwyneth donned this gorgeous white dress from the Lanvin Resort 2014 collection. I love the midi length skirt, something we rarely see Gwyneth sport. Pockets also lend a louche casualness to this impeccable gown. She finished off her look with Nicolas Kirkwood sandals, and a bold red lip. Love it from head to toe.

Kate Bosworth certainly has that newlywed glow! She popped up this week in San Francisco at the opening of a Bulgari jewelry retrospective. She looks absolutely elegant in a simple Stella McCartney bodycon dress, complimented flawlessly with Bulgari jewels. Wavy hair and a red lip completed her chic attire. Loves!

The Making Of A Legend.

Image via carolinesmode.com

The Chanel 2.55 is one of the most iconic handbags available, and without a doubt a chic forever classic. Apparently it takes anywhere from 6 to 15 people a total of 18 hours to create a single bag. If that isn't some serious attention to detail, then I don't know what is!

The Essentials: Wardrobe Staples 1-5

     I am constantly editing my wardrobe. Removing items from seasons past to donate or sell on Ebay,  or more frequently, pulling fresh garments from shopping bags and hanging them in my closet. Diane von Furstenberg says one should consider articles of clothing as friends so when you open your closet you are surrounded by friends. Well, it is my personal opinion that one can never have too many friends, but I do believe there are 15 items that should begin as the foundation for every woman's wardrobe. Allow me to introduce your 15 new best friends...

Burberry trench.
Image via net-a-porter.com

1. Trench Coat- Trench coats are utter perfection in my eyes. You can be Catherine Deneuve or Kate Moss, rock it in October or May, and are always guaranteed to look chic and pulled together. Throw it over jeans and flats and you're good to go, same goes for that perfect little cocktail dress. It will survive rain and snow, take you from day to night, and NEVER go out of style.

Diane von Furstenberg dress.
Image via net-a-porter.com

2. Black Dress- Little known fact, but Coco Chanel invented the little black dress in 1926 at a time when bright colors and prints were all the rage. She made them in wool for day and different variations of crepe and velvet for evening. Other designers famously mocked her- Elsa Schiaparelli her enemy, made frocks covered with lobsters and splashed her signature pink everywhere, and Paul Poiret called her invention "deluxe poverty." However, not all shared the sentiment. American Vogue nicknamed Chanel's LBD "The Ford" for its potential long lasting success. Every woman should own a black dress in a cut and fabric that flattering to her body and relevant to her lifestyle.

J Brand jeans.
Image via net-a-porter.com

3. The Perfect Jean- Although jeans have been around since the 18th century, they've only in the past decade become the status symbol they are today. They are one of the most frustrating items to shop for, but if you persevere you will find the magic pair. Every woman should know what cut, wash, size, and length works for her, as jeans are now an essential to any wardrobe. They can worn to work, to play, and everything in between. My best advice is to avoid lighter washes, whiskering, and cuffed jeans as all can add bulk in places unwanted.

Christian Louboutin pumps.
Image via net-a-porter.com

4. Nude Heels-  This one may be puzzling to some of you. Why not a black heel? Nude heels make your legs look ridiculously long. Because there's no breakup in the color of your skin and the color of your shoe, it makes your legs appear as if they go on forever. They're also a great buy because they're a neutral and they will go with everything. No ankle straps though, as they will cut your legs off and make you look dumpy.

Valentino necklace.
Image via net-a-porter.com

5. Statement Jewelry- Every woman needs a bold piece of jewelry to pull her outfits together. There's lots of room to play with this item. Fancy a whimsical necklace? Buy the Valentino pictured above and rock it out over a t-shirt and jeans or with your favorite LBD. In the mood for a cocktail ring? Splurge on a YSL Arty ring and it will still pull together any look you choose. The pieces and price points are endless and for you to choose at your discretion. Just think of it as the final frosting to your cake.

To be continued....

Currently Coveting.

All images via shopterrain,com

"There is beauty in simplicity" claims Linda Rodin, founder of luxury skincare line Rodin Olio Lusso. I for one, agree wholeheartedly with her sentiment. As someone who has severe allergies and skin sensitivities, I find that is is easiest for me to rely on products that contain the most basic and natural of ingredients, and forego product lines laden with harsh chemicals. Rodin Olio Lusso, the premiere luxury face oil contains only 11 ingredients, all of them naturally occurring oils. Ms. Rodin fashioned the recipe in coffee cups out of her bathroom, and her genius has resulted in a highly sought after cult beauty product. Along with the namesake product, she also produces a body oil, a hair oil created in partnership with celebrity hairstylist Bob Recine, a body cream, a lipgloss, a candle, a perfume, and a soon to be released facial cleansing powder. I have been lusting after this line for almost 2 years, and it's high time I just bite the bullet and order a bottle of my very own...

Oh, Marilyn...

Image via glamour.com

How cheeky is this thank you note from the one and only Marilyn Monroe?

Image via lettersofnote.com

Sunday Style.

Image via southernpiphi.tumblr.com

Mid September weather can be quite fickle. One moment it's hot and humid, the next minute there's an abrupt chill in the air. Dressing appropriately can be rather frustrating between the yearning to take those white jeans and maxi dresses for one last spin, and the anticipation of donning cable knit sweaters, and riding boots. This outfit marries the 2 extremes flawlessly. The white denim hints at warmer weather- and despite any forewarning you can rock those white jeans past Labor Day, while the camel cape reads cooler temps. The stripes and nude accessories (LOVE the Loeffler Randall Rider bag!)  are year round classic staples that balance out the opposing seasons perfectly, and the gold jewelry is the perfect polish to a chic and seasonably appropriate outfit. Ladies, take note!