Cheetah is the New Black

Sweet + Tough {1 Bootie, 3 Ways}

2012-02-24T13:02:00.000-05:00

I typically gravitate towards a sweet and tough mix so when I spotted these studded mesh ankle booties over on Zara (here), I dreamed of pairing them with feminine dresses, lace blouses and floral denim.

To get the look...

1. Feminine Dress + Leather Belt + Zara Booties

2. Floral Denim (similar) + Lace Blouse + Zara Booties

3. Lace Blouse + Leather Shorts + Zara Booties

From Across the Pond {Look 2}

2012-02-22T10:00:00.000-05:00

Richard Nicoll Dress. Alexander McQueen Clutch. Bijoux Heart Ring. (all borrowed from THE OUTNET.COM)

H&M Jacket. Vintage Boots. House of Harlow Sunglasses.

I froze just a bit to show off this tweed one-shouldered Richard Nicoll dress (look 2 from THE OUTNET.COM, in honor of London Fashion Week). The leather trim, mesh shoulder and side cut-out were details I simply couldn't let hide behind my jacket. I would prefer to show this dress off sans tights with tall black pumps, but again the temps are too low for that. Hands down, this is my ideal winter cocktail dress... it's just so me!

From Across the Pond {Look 1}

2012-02-21T10:30:00.004-05:00

Erdem Coat. Alexander McQueen Dress and Clutch.

Helene Berman Fedora. (all borrowed from THE OUTNET.COM) gifted DVF Booties.

With London Fashion Week in full swing just across the pond I thought it would be fun to prance around in a few British designer duds (all from THE OUTNET.COM). I felt giddy in this ensemble outside of the Cornell Law School (just keeping those students on their toes)... especially the fact that I was wearing a super cool printed Alexander McQueen dress. I like that the back has a little mint thrown into the mix which happens to be one of my favorite colors for spring! And how awesome is this iridescent clutch?

Look #2 to come tomorrow!

PS: Thanks for your super sweet comments re: my bright red hair! I'm definitely still shocking myself when I look in the mirror, but you've all made me feel a bit more confident about the new look. x

Gone Red

2012-02-20T05:00:00.004-05:00

Old Navy Jacket. Vintage Fur Stole. gifted Joie Sweater. gifted Paige Jeans. Target Boots.

Alexander Wang Bag. gifted BaubleBar Bracelet and Necklace.*

I've been wanting to go "Taylor Tomasi Hill Red" for quite some time now yet having worked in a conservative setting in the past I didn't feel as if I actually could. Now that I'm blogging and fully embracing my creative side, I decided why not! After hearing such great things about ARROJO I booked an appointment and told all of my girlfriend's so there would be no turning back. If you're thinking of going for a drastic change or looking to try a new salon in New York City I would definitely recommend ARROJO (Inva especially). They got me in last minute, talked me through my brown to red color worries, gave me lots and lots of green tea while I was there (currently have a post fashion week cold) and I left feeling confident about my new do.

PS: Can we talk about how adorable this french bulldog sweater is? I never want to take it off. My guy and I can't wait to get a puppy of our own (one day)... I already have the little guy's name picked out and everything.

* For an up close jewelry shot click on over to my Facebook page here!

NYFW Finale

2012-02-17T05:00:00.000-05:00

I feel so lucky to have been able to attend some of my favorite designer's shows and presentations this past week. I have a new found appreciation for all the hard work that goes into every show after going behind the scenes as well as participating in PolyvoreLive. And for those who followed along, I hope you enjoyed my fashion week photo diary over on Real Beauty.com!

Elizabeth and James cat eye sunnies and fur trimmed coat (below) crushin' like woah.

Rachel Zoe looking as glamorous as ever.

Behind the seasons: PolyvoreLive with Kim (Eat Sleep Wear).

Thanks again to all who supported us in the PolyvoreLive show this past Monday night. It was such a fun experience and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know all of the other girls and designers. A big thank you to Polyvore and Covergirl!

I was so engrossed with the Tory Burch show and everyone there (hello, Anna Wintour and Anna Dello Ruso!) that I unfortunately didn't get a great photo of the looks but I loved Tory's use of leather and can't get enough of these insanely cool blue leather pants. They may need to be my fall 2012 splurge.

When in the West Village an afternoon cupcake from Magnolia Bakery is a must.

An insane Rachel Zoe coat that I'm eyeing for fall (reminds me of this one).

Friday Find: Delicate heart stacker rings from Accessorize ($12).

Sequined Smooch

2012-02-16T05:00:00.001-05:00

Markus Lupfer Sweater. Equipment Blouse. Club Monaco Leggings.

Alexander Wang Bag. J.Crew Coat. gifted DVF Booties.

I'm mildly obsessed with this sweater and like that it's rather unexpected. I added a gold chained necklace to spice things up for evening drinks, but for the day this 'sequined smooch' did all the accessorizing for me.

Style Crushin'

2012-02-15T05:00:00.000-05:00

This past week I've been mixing spring trends with my winter wear for looks that are weather appropriate yet feel current. Both ladies pictured above nailed it! Joanna Hillman layered a gorgeous mix of muted pastels and fur with her denim for a casual yet pulled together ensemble. Kate Foley made a statement with this to die for orange coat and pulled off orange and black with ease (a combo that can often look a bit Halloween-y).

Photos via Harpers Bazaar.

Mint Leopard

2012-02-14T11:05:00.001-05:00

Vince Jacket and Sweater. Current / Elliot Jeans. Target Boots. Alexander Wang Bag.

I wore my new mint leopard Current / Elliot jeans to the Tory Burch show this morning. I felt completely underdressed especially when walking next to Anna Wintour herself (ah!) on the way out but oh well, that's what happens when you want to be comfortable after a late night celebrating the Polyvore Live show!

PS: I got extensions put into my hair for the Polyvore show and as much fun as it was to have voluminous curls last night, I'm already craving my shorter locks and will most likely be pulling them out later today.

Fashion Week Highlights

2012-02-13T00:02:00.001-05:00

Joie Vest. Acne Sweater. gifted Paige Jeans.

I've been living in my furry white Joie vest. It's the perfect winter meets spring item to throw over my ensembles before heading out. It was windy and extremely chilly this weekend so it's been about all I want to wear. I wore it over my leather jacket Saturday night to the Monique Lhullier show and Sunday over this mint green sweater out to brunch with girlfriends. I'm happy that it's proved to be quite the versatile purchase.

Emily (Cupcakes and Cashmere) at the Rebecca Taylor show which was one of my favorite collections. Every look was completely wearable and not to mention my style - a mix of both feminine and edgy.

Mary Kate Steinmiller from Teen Vogue at the Kate Spade presentation last Friday. I embarrassed myself by asking to take her picture but it was completely worth it, doesn't she look adorable?

Another show highlight, sitting across the runway from Brad Goreski at Lela Rose. I loved his leather sleeved jacket (I'm now on the hunt for something similar) and the fact that he was carrying a studded man purse.

I've had so much fun these past few days covering various shows and going behind the scenes to see all the prep that goes into each show. I especially loved seeing Rebecca Minkoff in action. For more fashion week recaps you can read my daily diary over on Real Beauty.com.

PS: Tonight is the Polyvore Live runway show - wish me luck! After a successful dress rehearsal this weekend I'm thankfully not as nervous as I was before and my husband is coming to cheer me on so that helps to calm my nerves. Again, if you want to tune in you will be able to watch the show online at 6:30pm ET tonight (here).

Surreal Moments {+ Friday Finds}

2012-02-10T08:39:00.004-05:00

Since arriving in New York City on Wednesday morning for Fashion Week I've hit the ground running. From the energy in the tents, extremely fashionable eye candy on the streets, decadent meals with blogger friends and a fitting for the upcoming Polyvore Live show* it's all rather surreal. Here are a few moments from the past few days (you can also follow along and view my fashion week diary over on Real Beauty.com here)!

Elizabeth and James Coat. Parker Dress. Miu Miu Sunglasses. J.Crew Bag.

An interesting mix of edgy (gothic makeup and bobbed wigs) and western (cowboy hats and leather) at the Nicholas K. show.

Very natural almost masculine looking makeup and grey nails backstage Richard Chia.

I loved Honor's use of pleats on this bold blue jumpsuit.

Friday Find: Revlon Lipgloss A Levres.

I purchased all four of these glosses while on a recent Target run. After rotating through them all I have yet to decide which color is my favorite but they are all equally fresh and flirty for spring! If interested in trying something a little different I recommend this pastel purple which when on is a pretty iridescent violet (I'm wearing it in the photo above).

*I am incredibly honored to be one of the bloggers chosen to walk in the Polyvore Live Fashion Show (sponsored by Covergirl) this Monday, February 13th. We will be wearing the designs of four alumni from FIT, how cool it that? Fingers crossed I don't trip and you will be able to tune in to watch the live webcast here Monday evening (6:30pm ET).

Spring Fever

2012-02-09T15:37:00.016-05:00

After styling a few pieces from GAP's spring line I officially have spring fever! I picked out this versatile classic grey cargo jacket and layered two incredibly soft pastel colored GAP tee's underneath. To make the look a little more glamorous (and completely me) I wore my favorite leather leggings and leopard print heels. This to me is the perfect look as you transition into spring mode in the months to come.

I'm so thrilled to have been included in this project! You can read my feature over on Refinery29 (here) and be sure to check out how the other girls (including my friends at Rue Magazine and Kim of Eat Sleep Wear) styled their looks in the new Styld.by .

Photos via: Refinery29.

Feminine Sweets

2012-02-07T05:00:00.005-05:00

Christian Louboutin Book. Miu Miu Swimsuit. Zara Heels. Emilio Pucci Cuff. Miu Miu Clutch.
RED Valentino Bow Sandals. Tibi Blouse. Tibi Pants. Miu Miu Top. Venessa Arizaga Necklace.
Marc by Marc Jacobs iPad Case. Calvin Klein Lace Briefs.

With February 14th exactly one week away, feminine sweets in the palest and brightest of pinks are naturally on my mind. Yet as lovely as the thought of getting dressed up in pink sounds, my most cherished Valentine's Day memories have been the nights I've stayed in. For the past few years my girlfriends and I have celebrated the holiday in our sweats with take-out chinese food and a bottle of wine (a tradition that we started in college).
My guy and I will be celebrating in a similar low key manner this year, what about you?

PS: If you haven't already seen this red and pink themed party over on the Glitter Guide, you really must check it out (especially if you're planning to throw a girlie Valentine's Day soirée of your own).

This and That

2012-02-06T05:00:00.096-05:00

Bauble Bar Necklace. Tibi Blouse. Theyskens' Theory Blazer.

Lip Color: Chanel Rouge Allure #36 "Darling" (the shade I wore on my wedding day).

After a busy yet fun filled weekend I'm thankful to have a couple more days to pack and catch up on my sleep (hopefully) before heading to Manhattan this Wednesday for Fashion Week. I will be attending various shows and posting my daily recaps on Real Beauty.com as well as The Glitter Guide. Stay tuned here for updates!

Friday Finds

2012-02-03T05:00:00.000-05:00

Butter London Primrose Hill Picnic. Deborah Lippmann Fashion. Kate Spade Supercalifragilipstick! in Fuschia.

I've been drawn to sophisticated neutral manicures as of late (Deborah Lippman's 'Fashion' is my top pick), with a pop of color on just a few nails. I kicked Monday off with an orange accent and am now rounding out the week with my ring fingers painted bright pink.

In sticking with my hot pink (hello February) theme I must mention this adorable Kate Spade Supercalifragilipstick! in Fuschia. I was won over with the clever name and fancy tube however this may very well be the first bright pink lip color that I've fully embraced. The hue is rather subdued and completely wearable (less Barbie pink and more cheerful pink).

Red + Pink {XO}

2012-02-01T12:04:00.000-05:00

I'm kicking off the month of love (aka February) with a little red and pink eye candy. From an unexpected bunch of red roses (courtesy of my guy), to a happy peplum dress which reminds me of this skirt, to Anna Wintour herself... may this month bring you plenty of x's and o's!

Photos via: StyleTao.

DIY Rhinestone Heels

2012-01-31T05:00:00.000-05:00

My latest DIY conquest... I hot glued orange rhinestones (found at a local craft store) to the top of my beloved (please excuse the not so attractive insides) Zara heels. The gems added just the right amount of pizazz!

{Before}

{After}

So what do you think?

Floral Fling

2012-01-30T05:00:00.024-05:00

J.Crew Cargo Jacket, Denim Jacket, Sweater and Leopard Tote. Citizens of Humanity Jeans. Target Boots.

I'm cheating on my leopard skinnys and having a momentary fling with these (super soft) floral Citizens!
What can I say, I have a weakness for patterned denim.

PS: Can you believe these boots are from Target? Me neither.

Winter Meet Spring {Inspo}

2012-01-28T13:29:00.000-05:00

Weekend Inspiration: a wintery mix of colorful palettes.

Photos by Tommy Ton via Style.com + Jak & Jil Blog.

Friday Finds

2012-01-27T05:00:00.000-05:00

Topshop Beetle Necklace.

This beetle necklace is a little out of my 'Friday Finds' price range but its too awesome not to showcase in it's own post. I have a bit of a peculiar soft spot for bug statement pieces (an equally creepy and cool combination).

PS: It was snowing when we snapped these photos hence the slightly blurred image below / grimacing face, but I wanted you to get an idea of how realistically life-size these beetles actually are.

Enjoy your weekend! x

Pastel {Leopard Denim} Remix

2012-01-26T06:57:00.001-05:00

Outfit 1: Acne Sweater. Current/Elliot Jeans. Topshop Top. Topshop Nail Polish.

Miu Miu Heels. Oliver Peoples Sunglasses.

Outfit 2: Kain Tee. Current/Elliot Jeans. Miu Miu Sweater. Essie Nail Polish.

Carven Heels. Proenza Schouler iPad Case.

Outfit 3: Rag & Bone Sweater. Current/Elliot Jeans. KARL Tee.

Essie Nail Polish. Isabel Marant Sneakers.

Coffee Run

2012-01-25T04:00:00.008-05:00

Wink Faux Fur Coat. Zara Jacket. J.Crew Top. gifted Paige Jeans. gifted DVF Booties.

gifted Spike the Punch Necklace. House of Harlow Sunglasses. Alexander Wang Bag.

I glammed up my Paige skinnys (which were once again in repeat action) with faux fur and a sparkly Zara jacket for an early morning coffee run. I kept my lips subtle in Estee Lauder's Nude Velvet - it was 8am after all.

The scene behind me (poor little ducks in frozen water).

Slip'n Slide

2012-01-23T05:00:00.020-05:00

Snow days in New York City seem awfully glamorous yet when I was actually sloshing around I quickly realized...

1) what a hazardous slip'n slide the sidewalks actually are 2) that a white coat is completely impractical 3) ducking into cafes, boutiques and wine bars every other block is the only way to defrost 4) a night in, complete with take-out sushi and Sex and the City re-runs is the ultimate way to round out a chilly snow filled day.

And so that's exactly how I spent my Saturday. It was lovely.

Zara Jacket and Scarf. Vince Leather Jacket. Target Turtle Neck.

gifted Paige Jeans. J.Crew Boots. Alexander Wang Bag.

Friday Finds

2012-01-20T05:00:00.000-05:00

Clinique Bottom Lash Mascara. Benefit They're Real! Mascara.

When it comes to mascara, I'm not particular. In fact, I typically go without, but if you're looking to try something new, these are two that I definitely recommend. They're Real! by Benefit promises lengthening and curling and while I'm not too sure about that, the natural yet voluminous look it gives my lashes is well worth the price. I also like that this mascara can be layered multiple times depending on how dramatic you'd like to go and never seems to clump. The Clinique bottom lash mascara isn't something I would have thought I needed but that tiny brush does wonders for my lower lashes and is easy to manage without smudging black into the corners of my eyes.

Do you have a mascara you swear by?

Winterized Leather

2012-01-19T05:00:00.028-05:00

Vince Sweater and Jacket. Alice + Olivia Fur Collar. gifted Paige Jeans.

gifted Kenneth Cole Watch. J.Crew Boots. Miu Miu Sunglasses.

It snowed off and on yesterday and yet that didn't stop me from wearing my trusty go-to leather jacket. I winterized it with a fur collar and multiple layers underneath. Surprisingly enough I was completely fine, all except for my fingers (I left my gloves in California, can you believe it?). But I've come to the conclusion that I can do this East Coast winter thing! It's all about the layers, a great pair of skinny jeans for tucking into my boots and I've gotta get those gloves back.

Bootie Crushin' {Isabel Marant}

2012-01-18T05:00:00.001-05:00

Top: Isabel Marant Dicker Ankle Boots. Bottom: Isabel Marant Jenny Ankle Boots.

I have had a serious crush on the above Isabel Marant ankle boots for quite some time now and maybe it's because I'm back in New York, or because I destroyed my Old Navy ankle boots last month but I can't get this craving out of my thoughts! Which style bootie suits your fancy (the Dicker or the Jenny)?