High-top sneakers (with a hidden wedge!)

Maybe it's the late 80s/early 90s in me talking, but I'm not lying when I say I love a good high top. And every so often I think, "Should I do it? Should I buy some?" (This happens even when they aren't in style... what does that say about me?) 

So theoretically I should be happy that Isabel Marant sneakers (and their more budget-friendly counterparts) are all the rage right now. (You UWS girls know what I'm talking about.) I mean, there's a hidden wedge. Which means approximately 3.5 inches of concealed height for those who are vertically-challenged. Like moi. 

But. 

I just don't know how I feel about them. I really love/hate them right now. I feel like I could put them on and it could be magical and right and good, or I could put them on and realize that I don't have the brio (bria?) to pull them off. (Maybe it's the Gemini in me coming out?) Which means it's a toss-up. 

What about you? Would you rock a pair? 

Toddler Outfits Under $40

Ah spring... it's finally kind of sort of happening. To celebrate, I've concocted a couple of fabulous spring outfits for the littles, both of which ring in under $40. Both ensembles focus on trendy colors for spring (mint! cornflower!) and feature pieces that can be worn together or separately with other items from your child's wardrobe. Don't be afraid to play with color and have fun! 

Little Miss: Polka dot  blouse: H&M / Chambray Shorts: Target / Ballet flats: H&M / Headband: Gap 

Little Mister: High Tops: H&M / Shorts: H&M / Oxford Shirt: Old Navy / Bow Tie: H&M

It's Geometric

I remember when I first saw the images from the phenomenal Louis Vuitton SS13 show. Amazing. The collection (as always) exemplifies Marc Jacobs' incredible genius, and finally presented a modern-mod sensibility that I can get behind. 

 

What do you think about this spring's modern-mod? 

Lush Lilac

This spring I've discovered that I have a penchant for purple. A springy, lovely lilac shade that makes me feel almost as happy as the flower from which the hue derives its inspiration. Though I am a girlie girl and love me some pink, I'm discovering that this year I'm leaning more toward purple in all its various tones and hues. Here are a few of my current loves:

I know I already posted about this dress, but seriously, it's so satisfyingly spring (not to mention figure flattering and comfortable) it's insane.

I couldn't resist the lure of ruffles in this simple, affordable and feminine tankini. The top is great for those who are lacking in the bust area (like moi) and the bottoms are flirty and fun whist providing full coverage on the derriere.

[I'm also tempted to procure this coordinating top for my upcoming Vegas jaunt with the husband. We shall see.]

 What's more springy than a great lightweight scarf? I enjoy the example above because it imbues springtime with a bit of a twist, highlighting its luscious lilac-toned flowers with a neutral background. This gives it a feminine effect without being too childish.

You could also incorporate this shade into an statement accessory piece, like the cocktail bracelet above. It has a sort of a luxe shabby chic to it that I think is quite appealing. Like you could pair it with a great pair of jeans and some heels or with a fabulous LBD and patterned tights.

What's your favorite springtime color?

Frugal and fashionable finds at Forever 21

Since I have lately found myself on the "wife-putting-her-husband-through-law-school" budget, I have tried to pare down my fashion sensibility to incorporate more inexpensive options. This means that I have to often draw from other sources beyond my good old standby. And personally, it's been a fun exercise for me, to rediscover shops I loved so much in college and to take advantage of the fun and flirty trends for spring.

Enter Forever 21. Now this is a store that I have always loved, but especially lately, as they have recently introduced the fabulous Love 21 line and amped up their existing Twelve by Twelve line. Below are some of my current favorite items, made doubly lovely by their thoroughly affordable price tags.

(Click on each picture below to view the item on the F21 website.)

Fabulous Florals

This season floral prints are back in force. Which pleases me greatly because I love the feeling of sheer femininity I get when wearing them. There are such a myriad of options out there in practically every price range. From fun, flowing dresses that would work great with a light cardigan, to floral accessories... you really can't go wrong.

Floral Frame Woven Scarf ($7.80)/Floral Bubble Hem Dress ($22.80)


Sugared Mango Cardigan ($128)/Mountain Everlasting Skirt ($49.95)


Chiffon Ruffle Front Dress ($68)/Floral cardigan ($88)


Pretty Posey Necklace ($14)/Trixie Flower Blouse ($39.50)

Just remember not to over-floralize yourself. Take one floral piece and rock it... don't try to do too much with one outfit. And, as always, have fun!

Karl Lagerfeld, you are a genius

I just took a look at the Spring 2009 Chanel Couture collection, and I'm still drooling. I think that Karl Lagerfeld is the best of the best of designers today, and he has evolved the Chanel brand into something that is nothing short of magical.

For this collection, Lagerfeld said he "started with a clean sheet of paper." Indeed, the backdrop of this show was completely white, and paper was used for the models' headpieces. And instead of coming across as thoroughly minimalist and boringly monochromatic, the collection demonstrated a sense of intricacy and detail that was quite appealing. Oh, and the fabrics! Sorry, I'm drooling again. Here are a few of my favorites from the show. For pictures of the entire collection, please go here, and enjoy. This is one of the best collections I've seen in a long time.

all images courtesy of style.com

Pretty Polka Dots

To me, polka dots have always been classic, yet fun. They are a great way to subtly add punch to a professional outfit without going over the top... and are a great way to add dimension to any outfit. The collections at Fashion Week for Spring 2009 were filled with polka dots. Some were more understated, others were adapted to create more modern patterns. Below are my favs.

Valentino (be still my heart)/Rubin Singer


Maurizio Pecoraro


Michael Kors/Giles

All photos are by Marcio Madeira and are courtesy of style.com

So this Spring, don't be afraid to experiment with some spotty prints and/or some classic polka dots. Just make sure that you don't overdo it. Either go the dress route, where the pattern is throughout, or go for a fun top and pair it with a neutral bottom. But most importantly, have fun!