The Fash-ist

A Weekend to Wander

2012-04-29T23:55:00.001-04:00

I hope the weekend treated you all well. :o) Mr. K and I did a little "backyard" exploring on Saturday and found a hidden little natural gem. Today, the two explorers hung up their discovery hats and spent the entire day relaxing. Without further ado, here is a little glimpse into our weekend.

Saturday, April 28 - Day of Discovery

We have big plans for this tucked-away abode, starting with runs around the entire lake and picnics right at the edge. When we were living in NYC, we would run around the Central Park reservoir daily so this scenic country lake brought us a bit of sappy nostalgia.

Sunday, April 29 - Some Much Needed R&R

The view from our bed - - Todo I don't think we're in NYC anymore.

The next few weekends are booked solid! I have a mini-vacation coming up that I can't wait for, family visits, and a day excursion to Stone Mountain all in the near future. The summer will be booked up before we know it!

What are you all planning for the summer? Any big vacation destinations?

'Til Next Time,
The Fashist

Sub-Lime Reveals

2012-04-25T21:38:00.000-04:00

The weather in Atlanta has been mighty chilly the past few days. I've gone back to layering in an effort to stay warm. These pictures were taken yesterday, just as the sun began to set. The timing made for some wonderful lighting, but the brisk breeze definitely tested my endurance. Looking back at the versatility of these distressed jeans really makes me want to invest in some more torn denim. I always worry it'll look unkept and slightly young, but I see that isn't the case at all. *whew* Pair it with more polished and refined pieces, such as the brown heeled penny loafers and a peek-a-boo white collared shirt and the denim takes on a whole new feel. Lesson learned!

Sweater: Banana Republic (Petite) / Button Down: Express

Jeans: Abercrombie & Fitch

Loafers: Nine West

Fortunately now I sit snug as a bug in a rug on the couch watching a Knicks game with Mr. K. Admittedly, he's turned me into quite the little basketball fan - it gets very exciting! Who knew?

So what about you guys? Any closet professional sports fans? Or better yet, anyone else so eagerly anticipating the NBA playoffs like it's the final Harry Potter novel all over again?

Oh boy, such a short post and yet so many reveals. You're looking at a closet NBA fan, and a widely open Harry Potter fan (forever and ever). Have I lost your respect yet? haha :o)

Indulge me - what are your hidden interests/passions/joys?

'Til Next Time,
The Fashist

Humble Beginnings

2012-04-24T22:25:00.001-04:00

Like many people in the world, I come from very humble means. We never had any "extra" of anything growing up and I look back angrily on all those times I asked my parents for something I knew deep down we couldn't afford. I was a kid after all, caught up in futile child-like yearnings. With four daughters all very close in age, it was difficult and far too expensive to go on any grandiose vacations. But the ones we did have are some of my most cherished memories. I even plan on recreating them with my own family because of the closeness it brought. Another outcome of my humble beginnings is the very deep desire to give my parents an easier life. And while I'm constantly trying to minimize the importance of money in my life, it'll take a pretty large amount of it to make that happen.

I'm currently sitting in my room at the Four Seasons Hotel. The above pictures were taken from my iPhone, showing the sun-drenched view from my window, a snapshot of the colorful business attire I packed, and the elegantly elaborate faucet in the tub that I will enjoy a bubble bath in momentarily.

I've just returned from a cocktail reception, kicking off the start of a two day banking forum. I've never told you guys this but I started working for a large consulting firm at the beginning of the year. I went from trying to climb my way up the ladder, to standing on a very comfortable plateau with the most beautiful view of what lays our before me, basically overnight. My parents could never afford to put us up in the Four Seasons, and here I sit - eyes and soul remembering and being thankful for my past, but always looking straight ahead to the new and opportune. I hope my past will always color my present with the never-ending amount of appreciation I feel right at this very moment.

So today, I am thankful for my upbringing and my trials. All negative memories, hardships and painful experiences culminated in who I am today. And I guess it's less who I am and more how I feel. I feel hopeful, and blessed; enlivened and bursting with passion for life. It sort of puts everything into perspective.

No matter where you come from, never stop reaching for that which seems so impossibly out of your reach. Never settle for less than you know you deserve. You can never anticipate or plan for the joyous journeys the universe with put before you. All you/we can do is slow down just for a second, take a deep breath, and look around at all that we do have. Appreciate the here and the now as much as our tiny hearts will allow.

I hope you all have blissful weeks! Hopefully I'll get to read all about them.

'Til Next Time,
The Fashist

One Happy Hiatus

2012-03-12T20:25:00.003-04:00

If I had to sum up my weekend in four words they would be: Chandon with floating raspberries. Sweet and crisp.

In the past month I've journeyed onto this incredible new career path, and moved to the most perfect apartment I could have imagined for myself at this young stage in my life. Everything has been happening so fast and yet I never forget to reflect on how fortunate I've been this year; constantly pay tribute to whatever higher power functions among/within/without/around us. Here are a few pictures snapped right before I headed to work. I hope you all smiled at the simple joys in life at least once today.

Dress: Forever 21 / Cardigan: Express / Belt: Forever 21

Counting your blessings may be the most perfect way to start the week :o)

Tonight my best friend's husband is in Atlanta on business, and it would be a crime for us to be in the same city and not see each other! I'm currently eagerly awaiting his arrival, so that we may head to dinner at his hotel, the Ritz Carlton. We'll laugh merrily and make numerous toasts to his wonderful wife, who's currently slaving away in law school.

The next two months have two big business events at the Four Seasons, and I'll be sure to snap as many professional outfit pictures as I can! I need to get back on my blogging game.

I hope you all had an awesome start to the week.

'Til Next Time,
TheFashist

Vintage, Cozy Cable-Knit

2012-02-12T21:10:00.000-05:00

I now have a new-found appreciation for the Cold Climate Bloggers. This was the first time I dared to snap outfit photos in temperatures that were below freezing. Those who do it every day deserve continuous recognition. It has been mighty chilly in the former Hotlanta, but the relentless sunshine makes it a welcome departure from the warmer weather. It was the perfect opportunity to cozy up in an over-sized cable knit sweater.

While visiting my family for the holidays in NY, my boyfriend's uncle gifted me with this cuddly vintage Ralph Lauren cardigan. The best part? He wore the sweater for years before retiring it to HIS closet. A proud and unique addition to my wardrobe. Thanks again Uncle G. and Aunt B.! Your fashion foresight is incredible! :o)

Cable Knit Sweater: Vintage Ralph Lauren / Blouse & Skirt: Forever 21

Boots: Jessica Simpson

Every detail of the sweater, from the chunky knit design to the leather-bound buttons, makes this a classic winter staple, capable of being passed down from one generation (and one gender) to another.

I hope you all had wonderful weekends! How was the weather in your neck of the woods?

'Til Next Time,
The Fashist

Fashion Stimulus: Snaked & Sueded L.A.M.B.

2012-02-09T11:27:00.000-05:00

It's a perfectly welcome change living in a state that's warm enough to wear these sling-backs in February. Now, to find a way to secure the funds... hmm.... ;o)

The Ariel by L.A.M.B. are available here.

Daily inspiration before noon... It's going to be a good day.

'Til Next Time,

TheFashist

Come Fly With Me...

2012-01-30T21:15:00.001-05:00

Both my mother and significant other made similar projections that 2012 was going to be a wonderful year. My mom is an eternal optimist so her rosy outlook was nothing new, but my boyfriend's happy predictions were a welcome surprise. As we all know, life has its ups and its downs, and at some points you get yourself so lost that you can hardly tell the difference. As my own worst critic, I know how impossible the pressures of life can feel; how daunting and never ending. I know what it feels like to self-doubt incessantly; to dare to disappoint those you love the most by following your gut and your heart.

A little over a year ago I made one of the hardest decisions of my life. I chose to veer off of what had been my lifelong course. I was sad, confused and frustrated. My heart was telling me to abandon ship, abandon this dream that had never truly been mine in the first place. It told me to be brave and seek out something that I knew in my bones to be right. Most importantly, it told me to stop fretting about disappointing those I love because the only person I should worry about disappointing... is myself.

It was in those dark hours that I realized I would rather risk failure than spend my entire life on a path that I would constantly have to justify, because my heart wasn't in it.

That was when my most recent journey began; the end of 2010 and beginning of 2011. Now a mere year later I find myself presented with a wondrous opportunity, unlike anything I would have anticipated. Everything about it feels right, and I no longer feel as if I'm lying to myself. It's a whole new chapter; another journey. The comfort that accompanies this knowledge is one of the best feelings I've ever experienced.

In celebration of this accomplishment, my boyfriend and I went out for a romantic dinner at the Livingston restaurant in the Georgian terrace. The night was nothing short of remarkable, and my handsome partner was the perfect gentleman.

Blouse, Blazer & Skirt: Forever 21 / Heels: Nine West

I really can't think of a better time to share my resolutions for the New Year:

1. Be more patient with myself; with everything.
2. Learn to enjoy the journey.
3. Stretch for at least 10 minutes every day.
4. Complete Slim in 6 within the assigned time frame! (<-- workout regiment)
5. Speak to my nephew and younger sister more.
6. Center myself at least 3 times per week; whether through meditation, singing, yoga, or self reflection. (I need to make an effort to not lose touch with myself. It has been a real challenge lately.)
7. Stop ~~needing~~ drinking coffee in the morning. (<--- I've already accomplished this. Much credit is due to my man...yo.)

Sometimes in life one must take huge risks if they wish to see great rewards... personal rewards that is. My hope for all of you, and for myself, is that we may all begin to see these challenges and risks as exciting new prospects, as opposed to potential opportunities to fail. The latter mentality does absolutely nothing for you, other than inflict corrosive self-doubt! Thinking in such a manner won't make you any wiser or spare you from falling flat on your face. It will only hold you back. As I consciously embark on this new chapter in my life I can offer but one concrete piece of advice: There is no point to self-doubt; it does absolutely nothing for you. Let it go or at least begin to as soon as you can.

I'm going to hop on the bandwagon here and say that I too feel this is going to be a pretty awesome year. :o) I wish the same for all of you.

Til Next Time,
TheFashist

Style Series: Professional Flair-Factor - Day 4

2012-01-22T15:54:00.001-05:00

We had a wicked thunder storm passing through our area yesterday. Nature certainly can be a humbling force. A day without sunshine is rare in Atlanta, so it was nice to peruse these sunny pictures taken earlier in the week.

I've recently come to appreciate the silhouette accomplished by wearing a high-waisted pencil skirt and loose silk button down. I've never seen a figure that this combination doesn't compliment. However, office environments are frequently freezing; from the lobby, all the way up to your desk. I knew I would have to find a way to lightly layer this look without loosing the professional appeal.

Shirt: Express / Skirt: Express

I love the stitching in this skirt; provides a more classically tailored look.

Now, what to wear over the blouse? Anything too tight would be unflattering to the loose-fit of the blouse. Additionally, something too long would swallow up the lovely silhouette created by the high waist of the skirt. I decided to go with this dainty, open-knit cardigan. The light color didn't compete with the wedges and continued the neutral-trend that I felt complimented the color of my shoes. The relaxed fit also didn't hide the silk blouse beneath.

However, the cardigan presented me with another style-challenge: How was I going to maintain my waistline?

Cardigan: Express / Belt: Forever 21

Why with a trusty, woven belt of course! ;) Cinching myself at the waist with this skinny belt accentuated my waist perfectly, without making the ensemble look too crass.

The gold accents to this cardigan are much more obvious to the naked eye, but this picture and the one below pick up a bit of the subtle shine.

And finally, to the shoes! I needed to find a way to stop my neutral-colored outfit from blending me into the background, and these green Zara wedges were the perfect compliment. I love every single aspect of this shoe, from the leather ankle strap, to the green suede, and finally to the woven brown and beige wedge. The arch is also very slight, which makes them perfect for walking around the office.

Wedges: Zara

And now for the question: What is your professional flair-factor?

Last Thursday my flair-factor was wearing green shoes! Admittedly I have very little green in my wardrobe, but I took the risk and wore green with a completely neutral palette.

I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend. This past week presented me with numerous challenges, one of which I was completely unprepared to face. I was in a painfully negative mindset for a little while but the unrivaled truth that always comes out of hardship is strength, and knowing that I am now stronger than I was a week ago is the most comforting thought. Let us all start our weeks off with strength, perseverance, and love.

Please do check out the other days of this style series by clicking the individual days: Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3. I've re-sized the pictures to make the posts more visually appealing. I'd love to hear your feedback. :o)

'Til Next Time,
TheFashist

Daily Inspiration: Advanced Style

2012-01-18T12:20:00.002-05:00

This Wednesday I am paying tribute to those unassuming women who have been doing exactly what we all aspire to do for decades: Inspire. No blog to use as a platform, no magazine editor hunting them down to capture their personal style - just them, a plethora of acquired wisdom, and an unwavering sense of self. Cheers to these marvelous women.

"I think its fun to dress up - its an exercise in creativity".

"I am dressed up for the theater of My Life every day".

"Before 80 you usually lie, and after 80 you usually brag".

"Don't worry about getting older. Every era builds character"

-TheFashist

Style Series: Professional Flair-Factor - Day 3

2012-01-17T09:14:00.000-05:00

Looking at the snowy winter landscapes from other bloggers, and hearing about the frigid air from my family in New York makes me shiver from the inside out! I can't help but be humbly appreciative that the weather in Atlanta has been so warm lately; well, warm to a native New Yorker. Even so, I admittedly miss the romantic carelessness that accompanies blizzards, a snow day, and having the excuse to take a "sick day" for the sole purpose of snuggling under warm blankets with your loved one. Throw in a toasty, crackling fire and a cup of hot cocoa (with melted marshmallows please!) and I'm sold.

This week is going to keep me a busy little working bee. And given the circumstances, the very last thing I want to worry about is accidentally putting a run in my tights or creasing my pencil skirt or button down. Typical business-wear is oftentimes just too stiff! And if a girl has to run around, she's going to have to make some minor attire adjustments.

Dress: Banana Republic / Blazer: Zara

A cozy wool Banana Republic dress sounded perfect. Easy to move around in and requires little to no maintenance throughout the day. Now, what to wear over the dress? I didn't want to clash textures too drastically with a knit cardigan, and the boat neckline of the dress would make any cropped blazer look silly. So after slight deliberation, I put on a quarter sleeve white Zara blazer.

Necklace: Forever 21

Knee Socks: Steve Madden / Heeled Loafers: Nine West / Bag: Louis Vuitton

To ensure that my feet would endure the relentless running around, I opted for heeled loafers from Nine West. I could go on for days about how comfortable these are but I'll spare you my shoe memoirs (... at least for today ;) ). The final touch was ditching the black tights and pulling on a pair of Steve Madden knee socks.

Now I put the question to you lovely listeners, what is your professional flair-factor?

Today my flair-factor was daring to bare... my knees! One rarely sees knee socks worn in a business environment, but the polished long blazer and loafers kept me from looking like a girl scout, and more like a lively, young professional.

Please do take a minute or so to peruse day 1 of this style series (by clicking here), and day 2 here. :)

I hope you all had wonderful weekends. Whether your goals for this week are to be super productive, or on the contrary, to be aimlessly relaxed, I wish you all the best of luck on this Monday morning.

'Til Next Time,
TheFashist

Style Series: Professional Flair-Factor - Day 2

2012-01-15T13:58:00.000-05:00

This past week, I ditched the frequently worn neutral palette and opted for a lot of color! I made a temporary exception to the all out matching rule and styled the outfit around these burgundy pumps.

Button Down: Banana Republic / Necklace: Guess

Skirt: Express / Shoes: Nine West

The bow and gunmetal accent make the shoes quite feminine. To harden the ensemble a bit I strung on a multi-chained necklace from Guess. The strings of pearls, rhinestones, and thin chains compliment the formality of the look, while adding a touch of edginess.

A grey ribbed skirt allowed me to fully display the pumps, and also delicately accentuated my frame. I love this about any ribbed skirt. It hugs you in all of the right places, and so long as the length is sufficient, it'll always be office appropriate.

Shoes: Nine West

Not to be a broken record, but I really can't emphasize the perks of a petite size button down enough! If you prefer the tucked-out look as I do, try venturing into the petite section. The smaller fit keeps it from looking sloppy.

Guess: Necklace

I adore a good pair of power-pumps. The open toe and bowed accent provide a polished, feminine appeal, while the sturdy thick heel and suede fabric allow you to strut through the office with comfort and ease. It's a win-win shoe choice.

So now I ask, what's your professional flair-factor?

Last Thursday my flair factor was playing with a vivid burgundy color, both on top and on bottom! It surely breaks up the sea of black and grey suits floating around the office and city streets.

I hope you're all having a wonderful weekend!

'Til Next Time,
TheFashist

Bright & Brisk

2012-01-14T21:48:00.001-05:00

We were finally graced with some chilly weather in Atlanta; chilly enough for me to dig out my dress-length pea coat and warm, fuzzy scarves. In celebration of the highly anticipated colder weather (at least on my part) and the opportunity to cozy up in outerwear, I applied foundation with a recently received Sonia Kashuk brush set and asked the Mystery Man to take a few shots.

I've always had blotchy skin, and no matter how thorough I am with cleansing products my skin has always been prone to blemishes. I prefer a thin layer of foundation or tinted moisturizer before leaving the house to help even out my complexion. I've been using the same cream foundation for years but I was never thrilled with the application process. I tried sponges and a whole range of application brushes but the coverage was always too heavy... until now.

My mother gifted me with this Sonia Kashuk brush set below for Christmas and the stippling brush within provides the perfect distribution of foundation. It gives you an airbrushed finish every time, without skimping on the coverage! For the price ($24.99 at Target) and the case it comes with (which I've already worn as a clutch) this brush set is a divine steal.

Coat & Scarf: Macys / Black Jeans: Banana Republic / Boots: Jessica Simpson

Both the coat and scarf were Black Friday purchases from 2010. Time really flies.

Boots: Jessica Simpson

Happy weekend to all! And for those of you in the states, happy three-day weekend! :) May we all spend some time in the sunshine.

'Til Next Time,
TheFashist

Style Series: Professional Flair-Factor - Day 1

2012-01-09T19:02:00.000-05:00

Despite years of working in corporate America, I still find the office the biggest offender of quelling one’s personal style. I’m a big lover of “business casual” on men (yum) but for women without the funds to dress in J Crew or Club Monaco every day, “business casual” can be limiting and dry. How much spark can you add to professional attire before it’s considered inappropriate?

To address this seemingly inescapable problem, I’ve decided to start a series of outfit posts dedicated to sharing my versatile and unique ways of spicing up the average skirt suit, without breaking the bank.

For those of us spending our days in an office environment, the range of wardrobe choices can be quite stifling. Not to mention, “dressing for success” oftentimes costs more money than a cute skirt and cable knit sweater.

Blazer: Zara / Skirt: Forever 21 / Tights: Target / Heels: Nine West

Here’s a quick solution: Peruse Forever 21 for their black bodycon skirts. I found this knit one for $12.50. Pairing it with a BR button down instantly polishes up a lesser quality item. I bought the shirt for $29.95 during one of Banana’s common weekend sales. If you prefer wearing your shirt untucked as I do, venture into petite sizes. The smaller fit will keep your ensemble from looking sloppy.

Growing up I was taught never to pair a blazer with anything other than its matching pencil skirt. Now that I've acquired more confidence in myself and in my personal style, I've taught myself not to say "never". Is it just me or does matching occasionally translate into drab and lackluster? You can still coordinate flawlessly without "matching".

Now the Zara blazer is a bit of a financial commitment but let's be upfront here ladies: every working woman must invest in at least two quality blazers. It is such a versatile piece, easily styled for any number of occasions, and it will last you years. The truth of the matter is that a poor quality blazer is easily identifiable. Sad but true for those of us on a budget.

If you're looking to bring a breath of fresh air to your business wardrobe, a memorable rule of thumb is to invest in two quality blazers: one black, and the other a color that compliments your skin tone. I gravitate towards light colored blazers that are multi-seasonal.

Button Down: Banana Republic

In order to get the most out of my purchase, I discern four qualities when buying a blazer: 1. structured shoulders (light shoulder padding), 2. a polished lining (visible when the sleeves are rolled up), 3. darted sides (to accentuate the bust and take in the waistline), and finally, 4. nice buttons. These four criteria guarantee that the blazer will have a long and frequently worn life.

A very dear friend once told me that a sturdy pair of black pumps are essential in Corporate America. You'll need them to not only stomp the city streets with confidence, but to also glide through your office with noteworthy poise. These words remain true for me to this day. So in order to stay true to my personal style, I chose a pair with a touch of flair.

The puckered leather toe and gold chain embellishment are the perfect synthesis of sophistication and sheen. The pump perpetuates the elongating effect of the black-on-black skirt and tights union, while the embellishment stops it from looking too uniform. I scored these lovelies from Nine West during a "friends and families" online sale. The final purchase was less than $35. Cheers to end-of-season sales.

Necklace: Forever 21

And the final expression of my personal style is the necklace. I often feel my femininity quelled by such formal attire, so accessorizing with a dainty floral bib necklace brings a bit of softness back amidst the professionalism.

So, what's your professional flair-factor?

Today, my flair-factor was taking the unconventional route in pairing a light cocoa colored blazer with an all black ensemble. Mixing and matching blazers and skirts with different textures and prints is a fun and easy way to maintain your personal style, while still remaining office appropriate!

I hope these learned tips prove useful! Tomorrow's post, and the second entry to this Style Series will feature a bit more color.

Sweet dreams blogosphere!

'Til Next Time,
TheFashist

Fashion Stimulus: Not Your Average Messenger

2011-12-23T23:49:00.000-05:00

I'm currently blogging from my bedroom in my parent's home in NYC; sipping hot cocoa and listening to Celine Dion's Christmas album. It feels so good to be back for the holidays. The house is just as festively decorated as always and the tree just as tall and bright.

Being home for the holidays really allows you to satisfy the best of both worlds: you can lounge around your childhood home freely in plush pajamas, but you can also "dress to the nines" for Christmas and New Year's Eve. As an ode to this welcome blend of casual + couture, I leave you with a glossy and effortlessly chic take on the every day messenger bag:

Meet the Python Shine Messenger, complete with classic turn-lock gold hardware from Mr. Marc Jacobs. (Available here.) This was mentally added to my Lust List the moment I saw it. There are still a few days left before Christmas! According to my 5-year-old nephew, Santa is a real and tangible person. What are the odds that he's up on the blogosphere? Dear Santa... ;o)

Happy holidays everyone!

'Til Next Time,
-TheFashist

Spread the Sparkle: Holiday Heels

2011-12-22T20:12:00.000-05:00

Holiday ensembles are all about bursts of vibrant reds and a touch of sparkle. Usually the sparkle is accomplished with decadent jewelry, big bright silver eyes, or sequin clothing items. But for those with a bit more "chutzpah" and daring, this time of year means it's finally appropriate to bust out our loudest and most attention-seeking heels.Who says you can't wear the sparkle on your feet right? After all, if an adorable little girl from Kansas (see: Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz) can own a pair of red glitter heels in 1939, we owe it to ourselves to try this trend on for size ; )

Blue: Kate Spade NY Charyl / Silver: Kate Spade NY Licorice / Black: Kate Spade NY Latrice

All three pairs can be purchased here, here, and here.

'Til Next Time,

TheFashist

Hidden Edge: Leather Mini

2011-12-19T23:24:00.000-05:00

One of my all time favorite style-challenges is taking a potentially edgy piece, like the leather mini below, and completely changing the tone of it by adding items of another "fashion genre". I wanted to maintain my femininity without muting the edginess of the skirt, so I paired it with a plum J Crew knit sweater and a pair of eternally classic Ralph Lauren riding boots. After initial consultation I found the outfit a bit wanting, so I strung on a spiky gold leaf bib-necklace and felt content at the mixture of spunky & polished pieces.

Sweater: J Crew / Skirt: Armani Exchange / Tights: Target

Necklace: NY Boutique

Boots: Ralph Lauren 2009

I'd love to see how all of you dress up or down edgy pieces. The fashion blogosphere really is a constant source of inspiration.

I will officially be with my family in 48 hours. The anticipation is building! And the infamous city awaits.

'Til Next Time,

TheFashist

Christmas Ensemble

2011-12-18T11:55:00.001-05:00

I've been brainstorming my Christmas eve attire for a few weeks now. It's a pretty big night in my family and probably my most favorite holiday tradition. I started mentally piecing together multiple items for potential outfits and then realized making collages on my trusty laptop would A. be wonderfully relaxing, B. organize my options without having to ransack my closet, and C. save me from having to make multiple purchases and subsequently, multiple returns! : )

Here is one of the ensemble collages:

Dress: F21 $22 / Shoes: Pedro Garcia $395 / Clutch: Nanette Lepore $295 / Blazer: Wes Gordon $2490

As it turned out, I used this collage for inspiration more than anything else. The prices are a bit too steep and I'm a girl on a budget! However I did purchase the dress (re: affordable) and plan on wearing it with a slightly different look on New Years Eve.

I'd love to see all of your holiday ensemble ideas!

'Til Next Time,

TheFashist

Penny Loafers & a Peek-a-boo Collar

2011-12-16T18:22:00.001-05:00

Do you all feel it? The heightened excitement winding through the air like electricity? Energy levels are soaring, laughing comes easier and eagerness builds as you anticipate your loved ones' reactions to the gifts you've hand picked for them. Things have really been looking up as of late, and the most wonderful feeling in the world is being 100% sure that the holidays are merely augmenting the joy that is already there.

Here's to growth, love and trust. And here's to those challenges and obstacles that give you the strength to forge through the rough times. I'll leave you all on that note, and with pictures of today's outfit.

Sweater: F21 / Jean Leggings: Banana Republic / Button Down: Express

Necklace: Century 21

Penny Loafer Heels: Nine West

I hope you all have wonderful weekends and get the rest of your holiday shopping out of the way. Once that's complete you can REALLY start basking in the holiday energy ; )

'Til Next Time,
TheFashist

Dear Santa: Aspinal of London

2011-12-16T17:49:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday everyone! Now that the holidays are nearing, we're occasionally reminded of our long standing, all-year-long wish lists. You know: that repertoire of luxurious goodies you've been compiling for years, only ever recorded in your wonderfully ambitious mind. Lets call it a faux Christmas list. Well, here are a few items I've been stockpiling.

Stacking bracelets is a huge trend this season and will very likely continue on into the warmer months. The above adorned cuffs are not only perfectly "stack-able" but are the ideal pop of color for any ensemble. I also found them impossibly versatile - they're casual enough to go with jeans and a T-shirt but have just enough embellishment to accessorize a cocktail dress. (All bracelets can be found here.)

And why not invest in a quality modern day briefcase? If money wasn't an object, I'd most certainly purchase this document case for those particularly busy days when I have to take work home with me. I know one soon-to-be lawyer in Boston who would rock this with the utmost poise.

These bags and clutches give a whole new meaning to the term "arm candy". We have all of the bases covered: animal print, suede, patent leather and sequin; an option for day, night, the office, the Christmas party and dinner with the girls. (All bags found here.)

And while the thought of one day fulfilling our grandest purchase-desires holds a certain level of sophistication and glamour, I revel in the rush that accompanies buying a quality piece on sale or scoring some unique treasure at an inexpensive retail store. I don't think that appreciation will ever change.

Now, I've hopefully left you all pondering your own faux Christmas lists, and the wonderful journey that will coincide with the pursuit of our somewhat frivolous dreams : )

'Til next time dear blogosphere,
TheFashist

Fashion Stimulus: Golden Wedged K. Spade

2011-12-13T20:20:00.002-05:00

For those of us in warmer climates for the holiday season, these Kate Spade wedges are the perfect New Years Eve alternative to bejeweled closed-toe pumps. The woven effect of the golden striped cubes is glamorous without being too loud & in your face. I love how much the midnight blue suede compliments the gold accents. It's the ideal balance of sophistication and vibrance.

Courtesy of Kate Spade NY: The Farryn Wedge.
Available for purchase here.

'Til Next Time,
TheFashist

Festive Philosophy

2011-12-13T00:18:00.000-05:00

This is without question my favorite time of year. I find that my appreciation for the sentimentality of this season grows as I do. Yearning to see distant friends and dearly loved relatives is one of the most gratifying feelings. This often overlooked sensation is such a beautiful reality; having someone to miss with such intensity. Though it pains us at times, really what is life if not the collection of experiences, feelings and memories we share with those we love. And what are we if not the culmination of all those wonderful individuals who impact out souls, after which we are rarely the same... and always wiser.

I have so many golden hearted "some ones" to miss. The silver lining of this has far more of an enduring impact than the occasional heartache. I guess there goes my festive philosophy.

I'll leave you perfect listeners with my outfit for today:

Jeans & Cardigan: Express / Leopard Print Blouse: Forever 21 / Watch: Anne Klein

Having a massive amount of errands usually draws me to somewhat comfier attire; i.e. jeans and a long cardigan. Especially when said errands take place amidst the sea of frenzied holiday shoppers. The very fact that people are now under the (red and green) gun to buy gifts seems to drive the majority of shoppers mental during an otherwise normal shopping adventure.

I rarely opt for a mid-drift baring top but once on, I found the cropped cut and exposed denim waistline pretty flattering. Definitely a trend to experiment with in the warmer weather.

Booties: Payless

And last but not the least, the shoes. Believe it or not, I scored these lace-up booties from Payless a few months ago. I'm still surprised at their comfort and flexibility. I can run around in them all day without experiencing any soreness! It's discount shoe-love at its best.

'Til Next Time,
TheFashist

Christmas at Tiffanys 2011

2011-12-12T13:21:00.000-05:00

My best friend alerted me to the above marketing genius and we were both floored by the outfits put together for this lovely actress. The decadence is overwhelming. The last few frames featuring black high heeled pumps and a pleated pea-coat are breathtaking. It's exactly the kind of elegance you would expect from Tiffany.

A nod of appreciation to the stylist of this commercial.

Happy holidays everyone! :)

'Til Next Time,

TheFashist

Polished Cargo

2011-12-10T12:46:00.001-05:00

Happy Saturday! The holidays are nearing! I'm very eager to get home, see my beloved city all decked out for the holidays and hug my sisters. My family celebrates two religions, so we've always gotten the best of both worlds: potato latkes AND a Christmas tree. I cannot wait to bask in the holiday love.

This past week my significant other completed two of his law school finals. We felt it more than appropriate to get a little dolled up and take ourselves out to celebrate his hard work. I've had this Chanel-esque cropped jacket in my wardrobe for over two years now (from Express) and I've only managed to wear it once. I wanted to make the polished look a bit edgier so I paired it with my army-green cargo skinnies (also from Express), a ruffled black blouse (Forever 21) and a new pair of black patent Steve Madden pumps.

Jacket & Cargo Pants: Express / Blouse: Forever 21 / Watch: Anne Klein / Pumps: Steve Madden

Lipstick: Maybelline "Peachy Scene"

I'm in love with the detail and tailoring of this jacket. The delicate black ruffle trimmed with a single line of silver chain is trendy yet so eternally classic. I know this piece will be in my wardrobe for many years to come.

I hope you all have beautiful weekends! :)

'Til Next Time,
TheFashist

Snazzy Spotlight: Guiliana Rancic

2011-12-08T10:18:00.001-05:00

Earlier in the week Guiliana Rancic and her suave husband were on the Wendy Williams Show (my SUPER guilty pleasure; I can't get enough) and I fell in love with her ensemble. She wore this incredible sequin structured blazer on top of a black blouse and black silk accordion skirt. She was also carrying a classic black Hermes birkin on her way out of the studio.

Her composure and style is particularly inspiring because she is currently battling breast cancer.

I'm drooling over the boxy shoulders and black piping on the pockets. She looks perfectly polished.

I hope everyone is having a wonderful day! The weekend is just around the corner :)

'Til Next Time,
TheFashist

Fashion Stimulus: Spotted & Spiked Louboutin

2011-12-06T17:42:00.001-05:00

As a follow-up to the Style Encore post featuring slip-on loafers (see here), below we see the perfect product of high-end meeting edgy glam.

Hello lover.

The above magnificence is courtesy of Christian Louboutin.

-TheFashist