fashionable functional winter boots

… for every woman!

This is my first winter on the East Coast in three years, I’m thankful that it’s been mild enough that I’ve been able to get away with my J.Crew Sperry Shearwater boots, original navy Hunters (with cream fleece socks), my Stuart Weitman leopard rain boots and my black Gucci (with leopard fleece socks) rain boots. But a big snow storm will hit… so topping my “to-buy” list is a pair of winter boots. Above are my finalists, I’ll likely end up getting a furry-shearling pair, and a classic black go-to. I’d also love a white pair like the Pajar‘s or Sorels to throw into the rotation. Wish-list!☺

Sorel “Tofino” (Canada) – these are all over the magazines and style segments as the “it” boots of the season. Red is fresh and unexpected, but this style is also great in brown, grey, and black. They fit small, in the US they come in half sizes – in Canada go down half a size to the next whole size.

Sperry “Plover” – these work in rain or snow, keeping you warm and dry. I love the tie and fur!

Hunter “Adley” – these come in black, dark olive and brown. I can’t get enough shearling. Hunters only come in half sizes and they fit big, if you’re a half size go down to the next whole size.

GEOX’s “Dina Stilvali” – these quilted patent boots are warm and cozy with a subtle shiny splash. They only come in whole sizes, they fit small, go down half a size to the next whole size.

Hunter “Regent Savoy” - my favorite boot this year, but I’ll warn you – the shaft is snug (15.5 inch circumference). Snugger than the Hunter original; 16 inch – (if you have a wider calf try the Hunter Huntress for an extra 0.5″, it’s 16.5 inches). The Regent also comes in Montpelier leopard.

Pikolinos – Lisboa 767-8441 – these are tall, warm, waterproof and a complement to any outfit.

UGG Belcloud (Canada) – great in black, brown, or Cognac – you can wear these like a riding boot.

Pajar “Grip Boot” (Canada) – so après ski, but they also work in the city. I love white, red, grey, black, animal (brown and black) and plaid… the black Gianna, Women’s Wolseley, and Red Wood.

Sorel’s 6138640 – exclusive to Browns in Canada, these zip-up boots are ready to throw on and go!

 

Sorel “Tofino Canvas” Boot

Sorel “Tofino Canvas” Boot (Canada)

Sperry Topsider Plover

Sperry Topsider Plover Boots

wonderFALL must-haves

Fall has always been my favorite fashion season. And now that I’m back living on the East Coast, I’m excited to reunite with the seasons (OK, maybe not winter…). After two-plus-years in LA, I’ve quickly become fair-weathered and I’m cold whenever I’m not in direct sunlight and extreme heat. There will be many scarves, hats, and jackets in my future. Let the layering begin as we fall into fall.

10 – a weekend getaway vest - I’m on the hunt for the perfect black vest (ideally hooded, and maybe leather). Until I find it, I’m coveting this shiny patent-esque crimson style by J.CREW. Great over black, white, or gray. Works well to-and-from the gym; brunch; in the city or country.

9 – black waxed skinny jeans – I don’t hide my love for black skinnis, I own many pairs. Two of which are wax coated (J Brand) – the perfection way to achieve the style of black leather pants without the discomfort, or price! They wear well with flats during the day, and dress up perfectly at night with heels. Just throw on a simple top, sweater, blazer or blouse and you’re instantly chic.

8 – mesh top – I bought this Theory silver mesh sweater in LA and I constantly get complements. Depending on your height (I have a long torso) – it may be cropped – like it is on me… I wear two Theory white cotton tanks layered underneath (I wear two because I hate seeing the button from your jeans through the cotton – the added thickness also provides flattering snugging benefits). I love it against my crimson Rag & Bones. Bright denim is still big this fall, but you can also opt for black or darker hues like J Brand’s cherry skinny cords. Smaller holes work well too.

7 – suede wedge boots / booties - fashion meets function with a wedge heel. Petite women can get the extra height they covet, without the back and foot pain. And the rest of us can enjoy some subtle lift with an all-day-heel. I love myself some black, brown, and grey suede boots and booties.

6 – polka dot - anything! Polka dot is to fall 2011, what stripes were to spring and summer. The same could be said for stars… but I prefer a more classic print. So mix some dots into your tops, scarves, skirts, hosiery, and more. Big or small circles are everywhere. Smaller is typically more flattering, just be careful the print is clear and you aren’t channeling the chicken pox.

5 – bright outerwear - Just add water. Seriously, it’s that easy! With a bright coat, you’ve got instant color-blocking – and instant chic. Guaranteed to brighten up even the dreariest of fall / winter days… The gold metal hardware and double breasted style can’t get any better. I love “Heather Camel”, “Heather Majestic Purple”, and “Vibrant Flame” all equally. J’adore.

4 – chunky knits – Looking out the window is enough to make me cold these days. I crave all-things warm and cozy – aka, chunky knits! The chunkier, the better. Stella McCartney can do no wrong in my opinion, and while her pieces are clearly an $investment$, I can picture this scarf and I being very happy together for eternity. Or at least until spring.

3 – tweed and tartan – textures are big this season. Think tweed, tartan, hounds-tooth, pine-stripe – very British – very prep-school. The looser oversized boyfriend fits of recent years are gone, and we’re back to fitted shrunken blazers and coats (because a waist is a terrible thing to waste). Classic blackwatch (green and navy plaid) is a safe bet. The more daring may try technicolor or mustard (because I’ve never met a condiment I didn’t like).

2 – dark cords – skinny or wide-leg - the ’70s drives the wide-legged pants we’re seeing everywhere. The great news is you can dress for your body type. Skinnies, and wide-legged pants are in – pick your pleasure! Just remember, all pants are more flattering when worn with heels.

1 –bright statement pumps - a shocking suede pump lights up your outfit (and hopefully your life). Kelly Ripa shows us how to wear blue suede shoes with all-black. You can also color block your way into an opposing hued pant, top, coat, dress, skirt… most successful blocks involve two or three (MAX) colors. As the temperature drops; select darker, richer, and jewel-tones colors.

 

J.Crew Double-cloth townhouse trench

J.Crew Double-cloth townhouse trench

J.Crew Sardinia whipsnake espadrilles

J.Crew Sardinia whipsnake espadrilles

June’s jewelry must-haves


These pieces all make a statement, some are more of an investment than others…

all are worth it!

10 –David Yurman Sterling Silver Large Link Necklace.

9 – David Yurman Sterling Silver Box Chain Necklace.

8 – Links of London Copper Glitter Friendship Bracelet.

7 – Links of London Sweetie XS Bracelet.

6 - Helen Ficalora 14k Rose Gold Studs.

5 – David Yurman Sterling Silver & 18K Yellow Gold Extra-Large Link Bracelet.

4 – David Yurman Sterling Silver Ring.

3 – J.CREW Heirloom octagonal locket.

2 – David Yurman 18K Gold & Sterling Silver Petite Buckle Bracelet.

1 – Eddie Borgo Rose gold-plated cone stud earrings.

 

Feel free to pass this along as your personal wish-list. Pretty sure i had you at ‘David Yurman’ ☺

 

“Something Borrowed”

Kate Hudson wears a spring-off-white suit in “Something Borrowed”. Click “next” for more.

Photos (all Kate Hudson) c/o: Splash News

Newly engaged, and very pregnant, Kate Hudson has recently been promoting her new movie “Something Borrowed”, based on Emily Giffin’s best-selling book. A quick beach-read (aka “chicklit”), this is a story you can’t put down. And somehow you’ll find yourself rooting for the best-friend / fiancée stealer – Ginnifer Goodwin. That’s how well Kate plays the character of Darcy… a real b***h. But what she lacks in human kindness, Darcy makes up for with her killer wardrobe we can’t help but love. Her white suit is complemented by her Fendi raffia and suede heels (no longer available), and brown Chanel hand bag (scroll to second photo – not available online). The height of her stilettos, rolled cuffs of her pants, and waist-tie (knotted, not bowed) give this menswear-inspired look sultry-spice… for a girl we quickly learn is anything but nice.

Kate (aka Darcy)’s beach badminton style (third photo) is equally covetable to her Manhattan-garb with her crocheted tunic, modern aviators, printed silk scarf (worn as a headband) and red-hot-summer nails. Both outfits remind us to try (and mix) the neutral tones of spring-summer 2011.


GAP city flat – so chic, so cheap!

 

GAP city flat – these are the BEST find for fashion meeting function. Great style, great price.

You’ll want to buy every color!

bow to your blouse

Jessica Biel masters a perfect pairing with a flowing white ruffled blouse and dark skinny jeans.

click here for more details
click here for more details
click here for more details

Photo: Jessica Biel: Splash News

Happy Valentine’s Day!!

In honor of Cupid’s favorite day of the year, today’s post is a little romantic. To help get you in the festive spirit for some sexy-sultry-STYLE. Let’s take a few cues from Jessica Biel, and own it all year.

This look is both timeless and current – achieved with one simple detail, bow-ing your blouse.


“Respect is love in plain clothes.” – Frankie Byrne

xo k