Five Things That I Am Loving This Week…

Bird by Juicy Couture: Puff Sleeve Blouse
A gorgeous silk-chiffon blouse that just screams femininity. From the understated neutral hue to the pleats and pintucking, this blouse is perfect for fall. Whether tucked into a textured skirt or paired with your favorite dark-washed skinny leg jeans, the effect will be purely sophisticated.

My favorite part: The detachable scarf is genius. Depending on how the scarf is worn, you can choose to look totally put together or effortlessly chic.


Rebecca Taylor Ruffle Biker Jacket
Edgy and sweet, the perfect combination for fall. While the ruffles are clearly feminine, the bold structure of the jacket says otherwise. Cropped like a biker jacket with zippered sleeves, the only thing missing is distressed leather. Made from viscose and wool, it is sure to keep you warm as the temperatures drop in the upcoming months.

My favorite part: The ruffles! Prevalent in fall 2010 runway shows, ruffles are a must this season. To avoid appearing too girly, I love how the ruffles are placed asymmetrically on the jacket front for a bold statement.


Roberta by Olivia Palermo
Always a fan of statement necklaces, I am in love with the collection of bib necklaces that Olivia Palermo has designed for Roberta Freymann. Every girl should own something in their wardrobe that is as extravagant and heavily adorned as one of these necklaces. Taking style cues from the impeccably dressed Palermo, go from drab to fab by pairing them with a simple tee or jacket.

My favorite part: The embellished beads and sequins are what make these collar style necklaces so appealing. While the green Mitte necklace is super glamorous and attention getting, the Chelsea necklace is more bohemian with earth-toned beads.


BCBG Maxazria Pave Joint Ring
Statement rings are a go-to accessory for me. It does not matter what I am wearing, on most days, an oversized ring is the perfect finishing touch to any outfit. Since the ring itself is an instant statement, pair it with a neutral colored top such as the one I mentioned earlier by Juicy Couture. A little gold goes a long way when it comes to jewelry, less is definitely more.

My favorite part: Gold and shimmering diamonds are every girl’s best friend. I love how gaudy and super intricate this ring is. With its extra-long length, when worn it would take up the majority of your finger.


House of Harlow 1960 sunglasses designed by Nicole Richie
When it comes to buying sunglasses, I am extremely picky. They have to be tinted (the darker the better), rounded, and, of course, oversized. Having said that, this pair designed by Nicole Richie exceeds my expectations. With the “modern goddess” in mind, Richie is successful in designing a pair that is classy, ladylike, and timeless.

My favorite part: The gold metal plates and signature logo are exquisite. While the tinted lenses allow you stay under the radar, the touch of gold is sure to attract attention.

Eryn Brinié: Tiered Ruffles, Understated Stripes, and an Exotic Print

Since I recently blogged about one of my favorite New York City boutiques, Eryn Brinié, I thought it would only be appropriate that I show some of the items that I actually bought. As you already know from reading my previous post, I had a very difficult time deciding what to purchase. Normally when I walk into a high-end boutique, I am drawn to a lot of cute clothes on the racks but they are really expensive. This, however, was not the case at Eryn Brinié. Not only were the tops, skirts, and dresses uber feminine and classy, but they were also very affordable. Below are my five favorite Eryn Brinié pieces (ranked in no particular order) that have found a new home in my closet.


A sucker for cardigans, I simply had to have this black and white striped one. Made in a stretchy fabric, this cardigan is extremely form-fitting and surprisingly comfortable. When buying clothes, I definitely like to buy things that are practical. Whether I decide to button it up or leave it open with a camisole underneath, I know that I will wear it on numerous occasions. My favorite thing about this cardigan is the contrasting black trim set against the skinny stripes. While the design is minimalist, something about it just screams sophistication. I cannot wait to wear this cardigan with a timeless strand of pearls or attention-grabbing gold necklace.


I was instantly attracted to the feminine details found in this silk slip dress. The chiffon and lace trimming are a perfect complement to the silk fabric. Although the dress is one piece, it appears to be two with the allusion of another slip underneath. In addition to the laid back feel that this dress conveys, I also love its pink and gray color palette. While solid colored dresses are great, it is always nice to come across ones that contain unexpected exotic prints such as this one. (Here is another version of this dress that is equally stunning, if not more so. Had it been in my size, I so would have bought it!) Whether I wear this slip dress with a simple white cardigan or dress it up with a black structured blazer, I know that it will look divine.


Next to cardigans, I have an obsession with skirts. Whether short, long, printed, solid, or ruffled all skirts are good in my book. While Eryn Brinié has a fair selection of skirts to choose from, this one with tiered ruffles is what caught my eye. In a gorgeous shade of olive green, this high-waisted skirt is such a wardrobe staple. While not casual, it is not too dressy either. I can easily see myself wearing it with either a cardigan or off-white blouse. With a skirt such as this one, a killer pair of heels is a must.


There is nothing more girly and feminine than a ruffled top. This one in a tie-dyed coral pink is just too cute! While its lightweight fabric and bright color are perfect for a hot summer day, I can also see it transitioning into fall. When paired with a crisp white cardigan and a pair of dark washed denim jeans, I will be set for the cooler days. Since it is still summer, however, I am going to enjoy wearing it with a white skirt to one of my upcoming classes.


Saving the best for last are these super cute oxford flats with brogue detailing. As soon as I saw these, I knew they were meant to be. Having wanted oxfords for the past year, I can finally say that I own a pair. Exemplary of the Euro chic style, they just exude classiness and sophistication. In olive green, they are a great alternative to the traditional black. While I love high-heeled shoes, these will be so practical and comfy (hopefully) for walking across campus. Whether I wear these with a skirt or cuffed denim skinny jeans, I know they will make a statement.

Cool crop-tops make a comeback!

Now that it is summer, pieces that are comfortable, effortless, and stylish are completely necessary. There is nothing worse than being subjected to sweltering temperatures in the upper 90’s in clothing that is not breezy and lightweight. At the same time, however, hot weather is no excuse to appear blah and passé. As a true fashion girl knows, everyday is a fashion show. No exceptions.

When I received an e-mail from Refinery 29 LA, I instantly fell in love with the idea of a cropped tee. While I must admit that I do not (yet) own a cropped tee, I am very tempted to purchase one. With sequins, stripes, graphics, and feminine details such as ruffles, what is there not to love! Not only are cropped tees summer appropriate, but they are also very in right now. Showing up in numerous Spring 2010 runway collections and worn by many starlets, these tees are becoming one of the hottest trends. Although once associated with the rocker-grunge look, cropped tees are currently taking on a softer side, achieving looks that are sophisticated and girly.

Like a regular t-shirt, cropped tees are very versatile and can be worn in numerous ways. Regardless of style preference, this top can be effortlessly pulled off. When choosing the right cropped tee, it is all about the design, cut, and of course how it is worn. Whether tucked in a high-waisted skirt or simply paired with jeans or trousers, they are sure to be a hit. Another thing to think about when it comes to cropped tees is layering. For those not interested in bearing much skin, a simple tank top in a contrasting color could always be layered underneath.

Sleeveless or not, cropped tees equally make a worthy statement. The ever traditional stripes that this cropped tank top by Urban Outfitters contains are perfect for summer. While simplistic in design with drapey sides, this is the perfect top to accessorize with. A gold statement necklace or bold bangles would instantly dress up this effortless look. While the model in the image shows the top being tucked in a pair of highwaisted shorts, I could easily see it being worn with a highwaisted skirt for a more feminine look.


Both of these cropped tops by Top Shop are simply divine. I absolutely love how they remain tasteful and are the definition of classiness. This dusty green cropped top above is very romantic with frilly ruffles, crochet details, and pleats around the midsection.


This cropped top with frilly ruffles on the shoulders is another great option. While the pastel shade of lilac is very neutral, the ruffles are what make this top so special. With a single strand of pearls, it achieves a look reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn’s timeless style.


As with any top, I am always drawn to unique details such as the leather flower appliqués featured on this top from Top Shop. In another pale hue, this dusty pink cropped vest appears both lovely and sophisticated. The black flowers strewn across the front and side create great contrast with the soft shade of pink and keeps the top visually appealing.


Effortless and sporty, this top by Aiko is ideal for those looking for a more understated look. The top’s loose fit and slightly long cuffed sleeves make it perfect for running errands in. With dynamic skinny and wide stripes, it is a great alternative to the traditional striped tee. While the colors red and gray may not scream summer, they do complement dark washed jeans and beige shorts quite nicely. To make a statement, pair this cropped top with strappy black wedges.


Ultra glamorous and sure to get attention, this cropped sequin tee by Gryphon is a must. While it may not be day appropriate, its shiny silver sequins are just right for a night out. Whether dressed up with a black skirt or paired down with denim jeans and a blazer, this top is a wardrobe essential.


A classy cropped tee for a classy girl. While cropped tees are often printed with rocker inspired graphics or text, this one by Sauce is very restrained with a minimalist design. The simplicity of the white tee paired with the stark black trompe l’oeil print of glasses is timeless. A top like this shows fashion at its best and proves that a statement can be made without going over-the-top.


This cropped tee by Seneca Rising is exactly what I thought of when I opened my e-mail from Refinery 29. A cross between Bohemian grunge and rock-n-roll, this top is made for girls with an edgy style. The frayed, fringe-trim on the bottom would look amazing with a pair of torn denim shorts and cropped black boots. If looking to achieve Taylor Momsen rocker look, definitely try this tee out in black.


If not into the grunge look, opt for a preppy cropped plaid top such as this one from modcloth.com. With rolled up sleeves and a boxy cut, this button-up top is very sweet. For a shopping trip or lunch at a café, pair this with a white eyelet skirt, comfy sandals, and an oversized leather bag.


For a bold statement, try this Ava Grace cropped top by Sass and Bide. With an innovative design consisting of strong lines, it reminds of architectural elements found in buildings and tall sky scrapers. Unlike previous options, this top is definitely edgy and would look great paired with skinny leg jeans, black patent stilettos, and a layered chain necklace. The gold, silver, and black beading gives this top a distinguished look and is what makes it one of my favorites.

You Need This: The Striped Tee

For my first post, I have decided to share my newly found love for the striped tee. Opening up this e-mail from Intermix, a high-end boutique and online store, I was immediately filled with excitement. While I admit striped shirts have never been my favorite, I now see them as a wardrobe staple.

In fashion, attention to detail is essential. Whether it is a simple embellishment or a slight alteration in the silhouette, details are what truly make a piece of clothing distinct. When shopping for clothes, I am definitely drawn to pieces that are unique and reflective of my personal style. My favorite designers are the ones who transform monotonous trends into ones that are fresh and innovative.

After browsing online, I came across dozens of variations of the striped t-shirt. All of the shirts that I selected below are unique in some way.


What initially attracted me to this Sonia by Sonia Rykiel long-sleeved t-shirt (left) is the ruffled hem found along the bottom. I love how the addition of ruffles with dynamic lines completely transforms what would otherwise have been a simple shirt.

This striped ¾ sleeve tee by Michael Stars (right) is another great option. Michael Stars’ tees are truly amazing. Created from the softest fabrics and designed in a variety of silhouettes, these shirts are great investment pieces. My favorite thing about this tee is the pocket and cropped length. With skinny black stripes set against the white of the tee shirt, it appears both classic and effortless at the same time.

Not only is this shirt from Forever 21 (left) incredibly affordable, but it is also conventional. With ruffled sleeves, it would look great tucked into a skirt or paired with jeans.

Topshop's (right) short-sleeved tee is fun, girly, and chic all at the same time. I like how the huge, black silk bow on the shoulder conveys a level of sophistication that cannot be found with the traditional striped tee.

Since the store Anthropologie had a tremendous selection of distinct striped shirts, I decided to feature a few of my favorites.

I was instantly drawn to this striped tank by Little Yellow Button (left) for its artistic detail. With green fringed appliqués made from felt, this tank exudes a very polished look. I especially love how the fabric gathers at the waist, creating a drapery effect.

While this tee by one.september (center) is fairly plain, it is refreshing to see the elaborate scrunching detail on the front with small hints of gold embroidery.

Also by Little Yellow Button is this adorable tee reminiscent of the character Blair Waldorf from the television show Gossip Girl. Adorned with delicate ivory blooms, I find this shirt absolutely irresistible. Though obviously a very feminine shirt, the zigzag stripes also make it very structured. While the contrast between the frilliness of the flowers and the bold zigzag stripes is unexpected, it definitely works.

This shirt by Gryphon (left) is one of my favorites. With a cropped length and attached golden star necklace, it was incredibly easy for me to fall in love with this top. It also contains thin, imperfectly painted black stripes that set it apart from similar shirts. The gold necklace and shoulder buttons contrast the white tone of the shirt to achieve a high level of sophistication.

In terms of high-fashion, I adore the late Alexander McQueen’s version of the striped shirt (right). Slightly oversized with solid and printed patches, McQueen’s tee is like no other. The mixing of prints and sparse use of violet is what makes this tee so visually appealing. Though the patches are random, they complement the top’s silhouette and large stripes. With his avant-garde design, McQueen redefines what the striped tee should be.

Finally, Topshop shows how versatile stripes can be with their striped tank featuring a “rock couple graphic.” Though far too edgy for my wardrobe, I definitely could see this tank top under a leather jacket with a pair of skinny leg jeans.

With so many options, I am ready to embrace the stripe trend that I once readily ignored. As the designer Marc Jacobs proves in his Spring 2010 Runway show, one should not be afraid to pair mismatched prints together in one ensemble.