School Girl Crush

I'm crushing hard: I'm utterly and totally in love with the wide stacked heel for Fall. Gone are the stiletto days, and back in vogue are the wide heels of the 90s. And this time, the heel has transformed from"chunky" to a more feminine refinement.

I love that this new style offers the powerful height as a stiletto in a more practical package: the wide heel offers more relief on your ankles and lower back. And drainage grates? You don't scare me. The pump subtly mixes sky-high height with a bit of school girl modesty. Just in time for back-to-school Fall.

A few of my favorites:

Pour La Victoire 

Irina II Suede Platform Pumps  $450

Missoni For Target

The Missoni for Target collection is almost here!

There's been a lot of buzz around the new Missoni collection for Target. The Missoni brand is famous for its beautifully colored and patterned knitwear. Not only are their designs immediately recognizable, but I've always enjoyed their naturalist look. I haven't been a devoted fan of the Missoni pattern (mostly because I can't pull it off), but don't you just love a good steal on designer brand?

 Below are a few of their looks from the look book:

For those looking for a piece of the Missoni pattern for cheap: Target will be launch the collection on September 22nd. What do you guys think? Are you looking forward to picking up a piece of Missoni's fabulous knitwear at Target?

Not so Plain Jane

Is the era of the "it" bags over? Lately, I've seen a revival of structured vintage-inspired handbags. You know, the "classic" handbag as we know it: boxy, flip-over flap, hangs about waist-high... formally perceived as unimaginative?

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My preference for bags have always lean towards "slouchy." I love the young, hip and urbanite feel of a slouchy bag. I also love the low maintenance of it. I don't have to worry about wearing the bag facing "out," nor do I have to worry about making sure it's "set down" properly... I know it always looks great.  I do, however, hate having to dig through it. And that [frustration] is what brings me back to more structured formal handbags every time.

So, with our sunnier days numbered, now is the time to begin the search for the ladylike handbag to complement our more formal fall and winter wardrobe...

The Prada Glace Calfskin Degrade Top-Handle Bag ($2,050) comes in a gorgeous gradient leather (easy-to-match grey).  The interior is a soft beige suede and its dual handles offer versatility. It can be dressed up or down and best of all it's roomy! This handbag has a timeless style that will stay on trend for a few decades.

 

The Lanvin Lovely Leopold leather tote ($2,185) is a good blend of classic and modern. The hardware gives it enough "city tough" for it to be an easy day-to-night candidate. Overall a great modern handbag in the classic flap silhouette.

Lastly, my two favorites, which are wonderfully affordable:

 Coach's Court Bag 

$258

J.Crew Edie nubuck bag

$240

Yes, the original handbag is back.
Until one day when I'm dining al fresco under the California sun... I'll be a slouchy girl once more.

Which classic do you love?

Pull Up a Chair

I am so excited: Rosanna tableware will be on sale on Gilt tomorrow.

You know how when you're in the consideration phase of shopping, you get a visual of how the new piece would rotate into your wardrobe? Then, you start envisioning situations you can wear the ensemble to (for cocktails! for work? for a date in the city). Finally, after you've settled on a few ways to mix-and-match and appropriate scenarios, you happily check out?

Well, that's nothing compared to home shopping!

Every time I step into a tradition-rich Potterybarn, an ultra modern Bo Concept or a humble antique shop, I am immediately transformed.

My imagination carries me away: I'm standing in my living room that's opened up to the patio overlooking the cape. I've neatly rolled monogrammed towels in my bathroom, and peonies and hydrangeas accent the kitchen and bedside tables.  Next: I live in a monochromatic home in the yuppie part of the city. It's a luxe bachelorette pad with all the modern day conveniences. I shower while watching hidden television behind the glass wall.  Finally: I live in a studio where every piece has a story. The upholstery on the mismatched chair in the living room, the frames on the walls, my jewelery...

That's the thing about home shopping: you don't get to just envision a scenario - you get to imagine an entire lifestyle. That's why I'm so excited about Gilt's Rosanna tableware sale tomorrow. She, Rosanna Bowles, designs gorgeous and unique tableware inspired by nature and traditions. I'm thinking girlish giggles and first loves. Romantic discovery trips to Europe. I'm thinking... I'm thinking... these are two of my favorite collections:

Bella Boudoir 

European Souvenir