Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Current Obsessions: J. Crew

As much as I've been trying to expand my fashion horizons lately- prints!  leather!  animal prints!  it's no secret that I'll always adore J. Crew.  There are certain stores you walk into for inspiration, and aspiration.  And then there are the stores that serve as a kind of childhood best friend. 

The Financial Times recently ran a fantastic profile on Mickey Drexler, and his strategy of always giving shoppers a little bit of comfort, the classics they're used to - the Jackie cardigan, the Cafe Capri, the Plaza coat- and then adding fashion-forward accents- the statement necklace, the leopard clutch, the colorblocked sweater- to keep things fresh.

I think this is why the store itself holds so much appeal for me; it's very much an echo of what I try to do with my wardrobe.  While I'm always on the search for the perfect tailored blazers, skinny trousers, and LBDs, more and more I'm finding that it's the special pieces, the loves-at-first-sight items, slightly outside of my comfort zone that are worth taking a risk (or shelling out!) for.

A couple of recent favorite purchases on the risk side: the sold-out Cafe Capri in Yacht Blue, pulled by my favorite personal shopper, the Merino V-Neck in Vibrant Flame, and on the classic side: the Plaza coat in Black, with Thinsulate! (my mom would be so proud), the Hacking Jacket (yes in black), and the Classic Jenna Bracelet (so perfect for layering!).


J. Crew's current lookbook is for me a perfect mix of trendy and classic, gorgeous colors that defy seasonal dressing, investment pieces and indulgences.  And for the next few days, use the code STAYWARM for 25% off of all orders of $150 or more.

Friday, November 4, 2011

Get Involved: Tom Ford Beauty

Tom Ford sold $52K worth of makeup in one night.  Does this surprise anyone?
The man is just beyyyyond.

This Weekend: Redecoration Inspiration


I do not know if I have a more favorite work of art than Cy Twombly's ceiling at the Louvre.  In the mood for a little redecorating before holiday-visit-season begins, the color scheme here is going to top my list of inspirations.


Going to stock up on these gorgeously colored throws @ West Elm this weekend - um, at $23 each I won't mind if all of the overnight guests I'm expecting this month take one home as a souvenir. 


A few new additions to my collection of blue and white throw pillows, also a steal at West Elm & Pottery Barn.


This Weekend: Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispy Treats


my two favorite foods.  in one gorgeous little recipe.  via the kitchn

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Current Obsession: Little White Dress



Loving this dress at gracie b.

Seasonally apropos?  Perhaps not.  Beyond elegant enough that I will click purchase today, try it on the moment the package arrives, and wear it around the house while doing mundane chores and watching snowflakes fall outside my window?  I think so. 

This Weekend: The Monkey Bar NYC



I've been hearing great things about Graydon Carter's revamp of The Monkey Bar, and if what he did for the Waverly Inn is any indication, I'm expecting a perfect balance of cool, understated atmosphere, a great crowd, and the kind of place you could spend a whole night, and come back for brunch the next day.  The menu, here, looks pretty awesome as well.

Current Obsession: Tweed Jackets & Silk Blouses at Zara!

Strolled through Zara at lunchtime today and was even more tempted than usual!  Several Isabel Marant lookalike tweed blazers under $100, as well as silk tops in every color imaginable, most between $50-$60.  Aka, 1/4 the cost of my beloved Equipment versions.

Knitted Fantasy Blazer, $99.90, here at Zara

Blazer with Zips, $89.90, here at Zara

Top Semipico, $49.90, here at Zara

Shirt with Bow-Tie Necklace, $59.90, here at Zara

Most of these look/feel much better in person than in these photos.  Love love love.