Why Don't You?

       

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      "Why don't you wash your blonde child's hair with dead champagne?" This is just one of the many suggestions from major editor Diana Vreeland's "Why Don't You?" column, featured in Harper's Bazaar from 1937 until she absconded to Vogue in 1962, and a feature I shared frequently on the previous incarnation of my blog. Regularly decadent and oftentimes absurd, her suggestions were not for the faint-hearted or persons of little means. Taking a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and a glass of scotch at her desk each day, she is responsible for discovering Lauren Bacall in the forties, and for telling Manolo Blahnik he should design shoes. She is the original Isabella Blow, grand and outlandish, and always with a sense of humor. Here are some of my suggestions for this week....

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Find a little fashion inspiration in the September issues? I always thank my lucky stars I was born in September, the "January of fashion" as Candy Pratts Price so eloquently dubbed it, as it's when the thickest, fattest, most fantastical issues of my favorite fashion magazines emerge, just in time for NYFW. You'll be able to glean all the upcoming trends and find a few tips and tricks on how to update your wardrobe.

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Try your hand at painting? Nars Cosmetics has just releases Eye Paints, a 10 color collection of gels that can be used as either buildable eye shadows or as liners. I personally adore products like these as you have much better control over the intensity of application, whereas with a powder formula, color is less likely to be adaptable to your intentions.

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Throw a glass of red wine? No, I'm not advocating violence, but I am advocating adding a glass of red wine to your bath water. The resveratrol from the grapes will help improve your skin's firmness and elasticity. Not into wasting any of your beloved vino? Add a 1/4 cup of honey to your bath instead, to aid in moisturizing your skin.

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Step up your fashion education with a film? Learn more about the creator of this column by watching the incredible documentary "The Eye Has To Travel." It chronicles Ms. Vreeland's entire career, from Harper's Bazaar, to Vogue, to the Costume Institute. Bonus points for indulging in "Unzipped," "Seamless," and "The September Issue." My personal favorite is of course, "The September Issue." 

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Enjoy a room with a view? Take advantage of the straddle between seasons by indulging in a rooftop cocktail. If you aren't lucky enough to have friends in high places, (literally) look up local hotels that boast rooftop bars. There's nothing better than a little gin and a little sunset...

Falling For Fashion.

     I must confess, I get positively GIDDY towards the end of August; particularly on the first day the air has a hint of a chill to it. I consider myself a classic dresser, and in my opinion, nothing is more classic than a fabulous fall wardrobe! Cashmere sweaters, riding boots, leopard print, and red lips all spring to mind when I start my fall fashion check list. This year, I may have started it in June ridiculously early, but by doing so I have been able to snag some absolutely fabulous pieces that I can't wait to wear! Come on, fall!

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     I fully admit, I am a sucker for leopard print. "Something leopard" is always very high up on my list of must gets, and to be honest I'm sure several leopard prints will make it into my closet this fall. I just can't help it! I first fell in love with the Equipment Riley silk tee last spring. If leopard isn't your thing, this timeless style is available in a plethora of colors and patterns, and is sure to be a chic style staple. I personally hope to get my hands on the snakeskin print that Miranda Kerr has been snapped wearing. I love the idea of pairing this with a pair of ripped skinny jeans and a leather jacket. Unfortunately, the last time I checked this particular pattern was sold out.

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     Another habit I just can't seem to kick is my love for sparkly statement necklaces. While J. Crew tends to be my main source of all things shiny, I couldn't resist this Lydell NYC beauty the moment I laid eyes on her. A fab necklace is the perfect addition to an otherwise simple ensemble. I am not one of those girls that mixes patterns, or wears trendy silhouettes, so for me, baubles like these are the perfect amount of pizzazz. I will definitely be donning this with dresses, but also over sweaters and tees as well. It's too beautiful to leave in my jewelry box! I was lucky enough to snag this during Lydell NYC's 4th of July sale, but it's still available albeit at full price. Find it here.

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    This next item combines two of my favorites- cozy knits and the French designer Sandro. I am seriously a sucker for all things Sandro- their pieces are the perfect blend of feminine, minimialist, and Parisian chic. I've had this Sucrette sweater on the brain for longer than I care to share- and last night when it popped up on Gilt.com for $25, I couldn't resist. Seriously! $25 from $265 people! I love Gilt! If you'd like an invitation to join, feel free to send me an e-mail!

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     A timeless red lip is most certainly a fall must have, and mine comes courtesy of Nars Cosmetics. I chose one of their matte lipsticks in the fabulous shade Vesuvio. It is such a perfect pop of color! I love the idea of wearing it alone during the day in keeping with the matte look and then punching it up at night with a slick of gloss over it. I personally prefer Chanel Rouge Allure Extrait de Gloss in Exces. They pair perfectly together!

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     Last, but certainly not least, are these beauties, I mean booties from Rag & Bone. I have lusted over the Newbury boot, basically since they came into existence. They are THE perfect boot, and available every season without fail. However, their price tag of $495 has prohibited me from purchasing in the past. But just my luck, I was able to snag an elusive pair on sale in the black nubuck (black suede) this past June, and they've been lying in wait ever since. I cannot wait to bust these out! I will be rocking them with everything, and I do mean everything. I love them. Their heel height is the perfect height, they are cut so beautifully, that I have not seen them look unflattering on anyone. They are available in multiple colors, in leather, suede, and canvas, and if you can swing it, I highly suggest you snag a pair. You won't regret it!

    Be sure to check back for more info on the Rag & Bone Newbury boots, and for what's left on my fall fashion checklist!