Fresh Design for an Old Concept

Even though my grandmother, Alice, has been gone for several years, I can still picture her handwriting as if she wrote me a letter yesterday. The art of hand writing a thank-you note has long been buried under the piles of email that we send and receive every day. To capture the spirit of the beautiful written word and keep it alive, the website www.minted.com offers simple options for personalized stationary, wedding cards, thank-you notes, save the dates, and holiday photo cards. I love the vintage feel on thick card stock with soft cut corners and a retro yet modern design element. Just think of the recipient, the lucky person who is on the other end of this gorgeous note...you will create a memory for them and have the potential to fill their scrapbook with your words!! How cool is that? It is pretty safe to say that all of those emails will inevitably and undeniably end up in the great big world of cyber junk, but cards, cards last a lifetime. Perk: 15% off almost everything on their site using the code instyle15 at www.minted.com

Kate Bosworth and Her New Mint: Jewelry

Kate Bosworth is beautiful and a trendsetter. She is known for her minimalist, yet impeccable taste. When I was reading through the November issue of InStyle a two page article with Kate's name in it caught my eye. She has teamed up with her best friend/stylist to the stars, Cher Coulter, to create a website that is unique and interesting. Called JewelMint, the basic gist of the site is that you enroll and for $29.99 a month you get to pick a piece of jewelry from their collection. Any piece - because everything is the same price. Got your attention? After you sign up you have to answer a series of questions so JewelMint understands your personal style.....examples are: Which fashionista would you love to trade closets with or which look would you choose to hit the red carpet with? What color nail polish do you tend to lean toward, etc.....Based on your answers the system can predict what pieces will catch your eye. There is a lot to offer too, from bracelets to cocktail rings to big funky earrings....all unique stand alone pieces and all designed by Kate and Cher. Each time you order something the system builds your profile and gets to know your likes and dislikes, creating the ability to better understand you. With all of this said, the question is ----- is it worth it to do this for $29.99 a month? Check out http://www.jewelmint.com/ and tell me what you think. I would be lying if I said I wasn't terribly curious about this new concept, but is it worth the money and what is the commitment? What do you guys think?

Layers Upon Layers

Layers are essential for fall weather. Often when you are outside around these late October, early November days it's tough to figure out what to wear. Therefore, my #1 suggestion is to layer. Your layers give you the ability to peel off as your body temperature rises. Some quick tips on the best way to achieve this look without results being "bag lady-esque" are as follows:

- Cardigans: always a great place to start. I am a big fan of long ones with a long t-shirt underneath, leggings tucked into any height boots, with a big scarf draped however you wear it best. Add a puffy vest if it's really cold!

- Blazers: an easy fix to any outfit! Throw on a 3/4 length sleeve one with a long sleeve tee, jeans (black or dark wash denim), big earrings, and of course A SCARF!

- Tights: Dresses and tights with long socks sticking out of the boots! Love this look. Shockingly warm-ups work equally as well. H&M usually carry these for super affordable prices. Also work well around the house on a chilly night.

- Long Gloves: I am such a fan of long cashmere or leather gloves - kickin' it old school, Mad Men style. These are perfect for working those 3/4 length swing coats you have in your closet that you wish you could wear all year 'round. Also work as an extra layer of warmth under your full length coat. You can find these pretty much anywhere and everywhere. The ones pictured are Michael Kors for $48.00 at www.bloomingdales.com

- Jewelry: I am a less is more gal usually and with jewelry I still follow this rule somewhat. I never wear a big pair of earrings w/ a big necklace. It's usually a big neck with a fun chunky bracelet or big earrings and a big ring.....I don't like my jewelry to fight each other, however, with that said, I do like layering different bracelets together

or attaching one long necklace to another and wrapping it many times. It adds a lot of dimension to any outfit.

-Preppy: Take a cue from the preppiest Ivy Leaguers! Last weekend I watched "Love Story" - a classic movie from the 70's with Ryan O'Neil and Ali MacGraw. Ali's style is amazing in this movie and she layers all of the best - cable sweaters, puffy vests, button down shirts peeking out from underneath....and GREAT hats. And a fur hand muff as seen in the pic at the top! My mom still has one of those!! Might have to snag it the next time I am at her house!

Rules of layering:

- keep similar color families together

- add different texture, keeping in mind not to put chunky w/ chunky (thick sweater should be paired with a cute blouse)

- make sure your layers are visible, meaning vary them

- SCARVES! I never ever leave the house without one (even in the summer)

RACHEL

I don't envy many celebrities, what with being in the spotlight all the time and the paparazzi following them everywhere, but there is one gal that I would love to emulate. RACHEL BILSON..... many of you may remember her as the spunky character, Summer, from the OC. I think she always looks chic and natural. Nothing over the top, but always on the cutting edge and has an innate sense of what works for her. The website http://www.thebudgetbabe.com is an interesting blog to peruse for current deals and ideas on how to dress for less. To find out how to get Rachel's look on a budget check out: http://www.thebudgetbabe.com/categories/50-Rachel-Bilson

Gwyneth.....Actress, Singer, Mom, Blogger? Who knew?

My friend Parker, who always has her finger on the pulse of what's current, reminded me today of a fantastic blog that's written by a very famous woman. Known for her many roles in movies and in the spotlight as a fashionista, Gwyneth Paltrow launched a blog called GOOP (http://www.goop.com/). It's an insightful look at all of her thoughts and ideas, from fashion and food to travel and spirit. No pretense, just a unique glimpse into her all encompassing world! Sign up for her newsletters and have a serendipitous moment when you receive a new email from your bff, Gwen. For one brief second it's like you're friends....well.....maybe not, but close enough.

Lions and Tigers and Bears - OH MY!

I don't know about you, but every morning when I sit down to the computer I am greeted by a flurry of emails that came through overnight. One of which is ALWAYS DailyCandy. It's a nice sampling of things that are going on in Boston and in the online world. About 6 months ago the Daily started a discounted site called Swirl. They always have offbeat interesting brands to showcase. You have to sign up to get access, but it's worth it because every now and again they have some random cool pieces. Like today for example....Swirl is featuring a scarf company called La Fiorentina for 55% off! What I really dig about their designs is the animal print....it's very neutral and not "in your face".....I am all about treading lightly with trends like this. There are some cases where people go overboard and it becomes "streetwalker-esque". Sign up and get on to check out these designs - really fun and very affordable (starting at $39)....these are two of my fave designs they are offering!

http://www.swirl.com/la-fiorentina/clafiorentina1010-p1.html?sorter=productName-asc

MOD = HEART

I know that I posted a couple days ago about the coat that I just ordered off www.modcloth.com, but I want to again express my deep love for this website. If my last post didn't prompt you to dig for gold and really, truly search this site with all your heart, then you don't know what you missed. From the witty blog entries to the whimsical dresses to the well priced shoes, and the romantic descriptions of each piece, it's a dream come true. They sell you on every item because you can tell they believe in their final product. How reassuring! The gentle wooing of customers has been long gone for decades with the introduction of mass market stores like Macys.....so seriously, do yourself a favor and go to that website and find your favorite piece and POST IT ON MY BLOG! Do the homework, it's totally 100% worth it. You might just discover that there is a little Mod hiding somewhere inside you! I heart you ModCloth. XO.

IN MY FUTURE: 2 NEW OBSESSIONS

#1. Shorties! I walk 1/2 a mile to the bus every day and then spend most of the time running around my office for 8 hours. These booties work perfectly with anything from jeans to a skirt...they are rough looking without being too brutish.....sweet looking without being too adorable. These are surprisingly Nine West from Piperlime. See http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=61309&vid=1&pid=794275&scid=794275002

#2. Military! A couple years ago my fave cream coat was scarred for life by a glass of red wine. In denial, I had it dry cleaned, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best....unfortunately it was never the same! After much coaxing by my husband, I finally gave it to Good Will last winter. I just placed the order for this military inspired white coat that has the perfect name, "First Snow of the Season". It's very structured with brass buttons and a stand up collar. SCORE. ModCloth is a cool little website with completely affordable and unique dresses and shoes - I promise that your pocket

will thank you! This little gem is only going to set me back $69.00 and ranks a 3 out of 5 on ModCloth's "warm-o-meter" which means it will get me through the blustery Boston winter months! http://www.modcloth.com/store/ModCloth/Womens/First+Snow+of+the+Season+Coat

From the Hills to Kohls....

Doncha know I'm LOCO?? Loco for Loca that is....Lauren Conrad, aka LC, aka made a career out of thin air, aka annoying, aka The Hills star. Putting aside my personal feelings about her as a person and the success that she has pulled out of her ass, I do like her line of clothing at Kohls. Recently, while traveling, I picked up a gossip magazine and there was a tiny article about how much people love her designs. Out of complete curiosity I got on the Kohls website (never been on the site or in the store before) to check it out. I am very critical of Lauren because I think she has only gotten to this point in her young life by an extremely superficial route, but regardless, the clothes are pretty darn cute and soooooo affordable. The black and purple flower tunic is a whopping $23.00 and can easily be paired with skinny jeans, leggings, or jeggings. The turquoise blouse at $29.99 will look lovely with big, fun earrings or underneath a blazer. I just love the detailing on the collar and how it stands up. Check out: http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/landingpages/lclaurenconrad.jsp for more ideas!

In a Cowboy Boot

By popular demand: me in my Rebecca Taylor dress and an electric blue cowboy boot. It wasn't mine - in reality I was wearing nude colored pumps, but feed me a couple vodka sodas and all of my common sense goes out the window. This boot was another guest's and although hot and moist once on my foot, it actually ended up looking quite fashionable. So....without rhyme or reason, please enjoy this picture because it is insight to my drunken soul!!!

Rejuvination of THEORY

So.......after the overhaul of my closet on Sunday, I discovered a Theory suit jacket that I had purchased two years ago. Theory pieces are very expensive, but I had picked mine up at Filenes Basement for a fraction of the price ($70.00 vs the full retail of $398!).....I had never worn it before because I had been in search for the Theory pants that match. When I pulled it out of my closet I stared long and hard trying to figure out how I could use this tailored, grey jacket when it dawned on me that maybe if I just rolled up the sleeves it would reveal something! Anything! And it did.....a sharp pin stripe on white! Perfect.....paired with jeans, an interesting top, and flats I knew I could make it work - in theory, my Theory jacket would look delicious and this morning it did!!!!!

BeltStop - Make it your next stop!

My beautiful friends Adi and Sivan own a company called BeltStop. Although they originally started with belts, both fabric and leather, they also offer hair accessories. Born with unusually thick hair, I constantly find myself on the prowl for new and exciting ways to style. With options like reversible headbands that go with every outfit in my closet and bandana bands which are great to throw on for yoga, BeltStop introduces a new concept...... Decorated with a flower applique, "Head Wraps" can be worn several ways to keep you warm this winter. My weak attempt at modeling is shown here, as a quick neck warmer (like a modern day "turtle" or "neck-up" - remember those from skiing?) or as a cute headband (think 80's ski bunny meets hippy chic). Visit http://www.beltstop.com/ to see all of the styles that Adi and Sivan have in their line!

Transition of Wardrobe.....

I threw up a post yesterday about "wardrobe transition" and how challenging it can be. As I was perusing Rue La La today I found a very helpful article pointing out 5 ways to combat the "I have nothing to wear" complaint that I hear most people spewing on these early fall days.....

1.) Prep your space - make sure it's clean!!

2.) Edit your wardrobe - eliminate anything that is unflattering or has been sitting in your closet untouched for more then a year!!

3.) Categorize and color code - put like with like, similar styles should be grouped together and then color coded light to dark!!

4.) Create Space - put up hooks or move summery clothes to another closet to optimize room!!

5.) Create order for shoes - buy a shoe rack and again, put your flats with flats and boots with boots!

I know what I am going to do for the rest of my Sunday - GETTING ORGANIZED for the transition!!! It's official - summer is over. Go to it, but before you do, check out http://www.ruelala.com/blog/2010/10/06/stylist-spotlight-switching-over-your-wardrobe/

The Shoes That Got Me Through Spring into Summer

Tiffany - these are for you! Hive and Honey (piperlime brand) and they are on sale right now (wish I had gotten them for the steal at $29!!!).......click on the link and it should take you right to them!!

http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=50300&vid=1&pid=759241&scid=759241012

They've GONE TO PLAID!!!!

Just like the beloved movie Spaceballs (that I could quote from all day), I've gone to PLAID! Mad for it.....I didn't really buy into this whole trend because it makes me think of my dad's standard winter outfits when he was working out in the cold, but now I think it's kind of sweet and will definitely help to keep me warm this fall under my puffy vest or trench coat. Two different tops that I recently purchased are both from 4-EVA 21. I realize that I am too old to be doing a bulk of my shopping there, which is why I only buy the pieces that will make my wardrobe look current, but won't break the bank! Alas, here is the heavy flannel plaid button down that I ended up with. Do what you wish, but be sure not to go overboard with this look - a little goes a loooong way!

http://www.forever21.com/heritage1981/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=FOREVER21&category%5Fname=81woven%5Ftop&product%5Fid=2055986320&Page=1

Blanket or Sweater - how about both?

I heart the fall weather in a big way. Summer slowly melts away and the beautiful cool breezes sneak in. It's a sign of delicious pumpkin spice lattes and snuggling in cozy down vests and perhaps a sweater or two. The warm days bring cold nights and it can be a tough time on your closet. Transition-wear is what I like to call it. Wrap sweaters are perfect for this "transition" - they are also perfect for long plane rides, lounging around the house, or cold theromstats in the office. Basically I can find a use for them every day and usually don't leave home without one. So.....when I stumbled upon these gorgeous Blanket Sweaters I knew that it was going to be my next investment. Although, with the two pictures I have attached, you can choose whether you want to splurge or not! Both found on www.piperlime.com, the tan one is by Laurie B and retails for $190.00 while the dark grey one is MinkPink and retails for $64.00.

Black Flats, Neutral Scarf, Jeggings, and the Perfect Fall Handbag

People who know me know that in a couple senses I am an old lady - I can't hear and I wear flats on the regular.....I probably own 6-7 pairs of Sam Edelmans (formerly of Sam and Libby - the famed bow flats we all wore as little girls) and they are by far the most comfortable and durable shoes I own. And I am HARD on my shoes. The Sam Edelman Calypso has it all - black patent, quilting, and small bead work gives this pair a luxurious and classic feel, while keeping the typical edginess of SE's by the finishing details in the interior and twine bow on the toe. On Zappos right now for the reduced price of $95! These will be a staple in my closet for fall into winter.

Besides my affinity of older ladies, most of my friends understand

my addiction to scarves. In a basket in my room and also in my spare bedroom closet I have a plethora - every trip I take I collect one and every winter I knit at least a couple (including infinity scarves which I will blog about as the cold weather sets in). Today I picked up a neutral colored linen/cotton one that I know will work with pretty much everything in my closet and compliment my fuscia Rebecca Taylor dress that I am wearing to a wedding this weekend. Kelly Ripa shows it paired casually with a bright yellow shirt....

Jeggings - yes leggings/jeans are A-MAZING. I still wear and love

my Citizens of Humanity black matchstick jeans from last year, but looking for a similar fit in a dark, crisp denim was tough. After searching all summer for what I knew would be my uniform for the fall, I finally found them at Urban Outfitters. They are Levis and fit like a glove - so comfortable - perfect length - and the best part is you can eat/drink as much as you want while wearing them because they are JEGGINGS after all....delish!

Lastly, it's been awhile since I invested in a handbag (embarrassingly since last spring!). I have been researching a new bag called orYANY. The company is based out of NY, but other then that I don't really have any history on the brand other then that the bags are gorgeous. Check out the stone colored one - easily goes with black or brown....

soft and versatile - can be worn two different ways, on the shoulder or across the body. As a commuter, I use cross body bags quite a bit, after all, as an old lady, convenience is key! orYANY bags are sold at Neimans and retail around $300-500.

It's Time to ROMP Miami in this ROMPER!

Shopping yesterday with my bride-to-be friend, Whitney, we were casually perusing the sale section of Anthro yesterday when I came across this fabulous romper. Black and blue stripes with a sweetheart neckline and perfectly placed little pockets, this number accentuates my small upper body while disguising my bigger butt and hips. Next best part is that it was on sale for $49.95! The line was long at Anthro so I started off buying a size 6, tried it on at French Connection (our next stop) and found that it was swimming on me - I immediately exchanged it for a size 2 and I couldn't be happier! This romper is about to take Miami in less then a month......now what shoes should I wear with it? Any ideas or comments?

Whitney also scored a sexy little dress for our Miami excursion - this bright green really pops on her skin tone and will look gorgeous with an additional item that I have in mind for her to wear! That will remain a secret though....stay tuned.

The Grand KOOBA.... *Sophie Tote"

Okay, so I know that I have already put up two posts tonight, but this one is a must. THE handbag for my spring wardrobe. $325 SRP, beautiful. Unexpected detailing. Only available on certain websites and absolutely perfect, just like Kooba always does. www.pinkmascara.com

Mexican Mama

Recently two of my friends went to Mexico and loved it (one bought a timeshare). It got me thinking...years ago I used to have all of these great bohemian tops that were super light and airy in the summer time, paired with cute shorts or boyfriend jeans. My quest for Mexican blouses began...and in my search I stumbled across a very cool site called www.greatgreenapple.com. There is something enticing about the fact that it has limited quantity available on each design - it drives home the fact that these pieces are handmade and unique. Frustrating as it may be to find an embroidered pattern that you love, only to find out that it's sold, don't fear - scroll a little bit down the page and another one is right at your finger tips! www.etsy.com also has some decent options, but beware of authenticity, it appears some are made in Thailand?

South Beach Bound

My girlfriends and I are heading to West Palm Beach and Miami at the end of April for a fun celebration before Whitney gets married in June! Being a true New Englander, my idea of sexy is a tight pair of jeans, an ever so slightly revealing top and heels.... obviously not going to cut it for a night in a city filled with beautiful, tanned women! My version of sexy-cute was found at Free People in the form of the Patras Ruffle Dress. It is understated, but for my style - it works and hopefully after one day of being in the FL sun I will have some color! Rows of ruffles and a vibrant grape purple color (shown here in black), cheers to many drinks with good friends....