2016's Top Spring Trenches

I LOVE a trench coat. I love a classic trench, a colorful/patterned trench, a trench made from non-traditional fabrics...the sky's the limit! If I could have an entire closet dedicated to coats and jackets (which I did before I moved to New York City) over 50% of it was filled with trench coats...All of which went to live with a nice family on a farm when I ended up in Manhattan, but that's neither here nor there. Since my last remaining (favorite, comfortable, just right) trench literally began to disintegrate into mere fibers held together by prayers after wearing it for 3 straight seasons a year for maybe 10 years, I've decided to pull the trigger on a better trench that will last a lifetime. Price point is not a concern, as long as it's great quality, a flattering style, and something classic enough that I could see myself wearing it forever. Below are a few I've added to my list to try on. I will absolutely keep you posted on this journey and share pictures of the winner this Spring! Wish me luck!

1  Gap Short Trench | $98 USD
2  Kate Spade Classic Twill Trench Coat | $498 USD
3  Banana Republic Suede Trench | $698 USD
4  J. Crew Icon Trench Coat | $298 USD

What's New at Modcloth?

Happy Monday! Hope you all had a fantastic weekend, whatever you were up to, and that you're ready and raring to make this week a great one. Today I spent a bit of time browsing new arrivals and can I just say? I am such a longtime fan of Modcloth and have so many of their items on my current wish list. After the holidays, I get a little obsessed with spring clothing...Mostly because it helps me wish the winter away! Do any of you guys do that? Below are some of my fave new arrivals from Modcloth that I've been coveting. I hope you enjoy and you're surviving whatever crazy weather this winter is bringing you!

1  Miss Mix-It Dress  |  $129
2  Edgy Meets Elegant Jacket  |  $69
3  Made for Each Color Dress  |  $99
4  Your Bubbly Side Skirt  |  $60

#Blogmas Day 21: Holiday Wish List - Kate Spade

We're getting a little too close to Christmas in terms of ordering gifts (though, to be honest I just ordered my Mom's from Nordstrom today and they guarantee it will arrive by Christmas Eve...so keep your fingers crossed!) And shopping IRL is crazy right now, especially in New York City. It's absolute madness to even get down the street here, particularly on Fifth Avenue which happens to be where I work. But while the time for shopping may have passed for most, I'm sure there are still last-minute shoppers out there, so I still wanted to share some inexpensive and lovely suggestions from Kate Spade. And the best part is that all of these little trinkets and baubles are under $50 dollars! Enjoy!

1  Two of A Kind Just Between Us Gold Faceted Flask
2  Two of a Kind Gold Dot Shaker
3  Goreski Glasses Shaker
4  Icing 3-Piece Set
5  Leather Initial Keychain
6  Telephone Dial Compact Mirror
7  Bella Pantry Recipe Book

#Blogmas Day 17: Kate Spade "All in Good Taste"

I can't even explain how much I need this book. I just...there's a deep history of how much I love Kate Spade on this blog. I basically worship at the temple of the religion of Kate Spade. And not just because of her gorgeous clothing, or her statement handbags. The real reason is because I find her attitude completely celebratory of all things womanhood! While she's obviously an incredible tastemaker, I also firmly believe she is truly in touch with the modern woman who might not be perfect, but isn't trying to be! Her life is one big party with champagne and glitter and bows on everything, and frankly I want to jump inside her world and never leave. So when I saw that this book "All in Good Taste" was coming out, I knew I had to have it. In fact, skip the Holiday wish list and I think I'll just celebrate my own womanhood and pick it up on my way home from the office!

I want to get lost in the art of assembling a vibrant guest list, trying new recipes, raising a toast to myself frankly. It's been a long year, and a very tumultuous month. But I can firmly say that I'm even more proud of the woman I am today than I've ever been. Cheers!

#Blogmas Day 8: Holiday Wish List - Quay Australia

Not only do I need new glasses, I am also itching for a new pair (or 3) of new sunglasses! And I have been lusting after a bazillion pairs of Quay Australia sunnies since last spring. I think these create such an edgy, trendy eyewear look for an AMAZING value – Most pairs retail for $50 bucks! These are totally statement pieces that would work perfectly year-round and really give your everyday look a polished, chic finish. I'm drooling over the pairs below at the moment. If you could pick one, which would you choose?

1  Girly Talk in Tortoise Shell
2  Delilah in Black with Smoke Lens (currently sold out)
3  Steelcat in Gold with Gradual Gold Lens
4  Isabell in Black Tort/Silver
5  Envy Nude
6  Love Child in Tortoiseshell with Smoke Lens

#Blogmas Day 3: Holiday Wish List - Warby Parker

The time for new glasses is nearing, and if I'm being 100% honest, I just never quite fell IN-LOVE with my current pair from Warby Parker - Holcomb. Don't get me wrong, they are adorable, and they totally let me live out all of my 1950's fantasies. But the shape and size are just a bit too delicate for me and my personal style. It's the same reason I prefer statement necklaces over thin, gold, romantic jewelry. Like, more is more for me. It just is. So I've decided the holidays are a great time to have a little 5 pair try-on package sent my way! And this time, I'm sticking to what I know works for me: bold, conversation-starting eyewear. Below are the pairs that caught my eye today. Let me know which you guys like best!

1  Chelsea | Whistler Grey

2  Upton | Sea Smoke Tortoise

3  Coley | Crystal

4  Finch | Striped Molasses

5  Kimball | Marzipan Tortoise

Keds x Kate Spade New York

Labor Day has come and gone, but with the warm weather lasting well into October here in New York City, September is definitely still feeling like summertime! Which got me thinking about these adorable Keds x Kate Spade New York that I'd been eyeing these past few months. I am just mad for the patterns, and I'm actually loving the slightly more pointed-toe variety too. But I have to say, my favorite is the cork pair that is totally in line with the Jenna Sais Quois color palette, but it's unfortunately no longer available. Of course! Taylor Swift also has a great fall collection for Keds which I may blog about next week while I'm on a Keds kick! Say what you want about Taylor's music (I happen to love it but it's not for everyone), she has sensational style.

I hope you've all had a lovely summer and are ready for my favorite season. It's right around the corner...hopefully!

1  Keds x Kate Spade New York Cork Shoes (No longer available)
2  Keds x Kate Spade New York Champion
3  Keds x Kate Spade New York Pointer in Floral Pink On Sale!
4  Keds x Kate Spade New York Champion Seaport Dot On Sale!
5  Keds x Kate Spade New York Champion Laceless in Geo Navy Red
6  Keds x Kate Spade New York Champion Jersey in Green Stripe Jersey
7  Keds x Kate Spade New York Pointer Cheetah in Blue
8  Keds x Kate Spade New York Champion Mariner Stripe On Sale!

Spring Has Sprung at Anthro...

...And it's also sprung in New York City as well. Yesterday I walked from my office to the Whole Foods at Columbus Circle with only a light jacket, and it felt perfect. I even lingered to snap a few Instagrams. What is this feeling!? But back to the point of this post, I am just as smitten with these beautiful, frothy spring pieces from Anthropologie. Especially the long peach blossom number at the bottom, which is reminding me of something Betty Draper in seasons 1-3ish. How about you guys? Are you experiencing Spring's better-late-than-never arrival in your necks of the woods? I hope so!

Flora Vignette Dress

Silk Tableau Shift

Galen Dress

Embroidered Bleuet Midi Top

Peach Blossom Maxi Dress

Spring Looks from Anthro

While I've been in Manhattan caught in a polar vortex, I've been daydreaming about Spring and sunshine and, of course, clothes! While I'm normally an Autumn gal, these looks from Anthropologie may have me singing a different tune. Plus, I'm loving the styling of this photo shoot. Take a look below!

Sunchart Peplum Dress

Draped Chambray Popover

Patula Maxi Skirt

Faifo Jacket

Dash-Dash Shorts

Sartorial Soulmates

I know that, in terms of styling or accessorizing, ladies certainly have an unlimited number of tricks up our sleeves. But, is there anything better than a well-dressed man? In New York City, you can definitely catch a fair few in their natural habitats, but for the quicker and easier route, I turn to Pinterest and my Sartorial Soulmates pin board. Below are a few of my favorites. What do you guys think about a well-accessorized fella? Too much? Just right?

Image from Le Ruffian Bureau

Image from styleguy on Tumblr

Image from here

Image from Men's Interests on Tumblr

Sarah Lazarovic | The Ponchos of My Life

I'm sorry, but who doesn't love a good poncho? Especially when fall weather changes bring that dreaded combination of rain/wind! Whether it be wool, or made from a makeshift garbage bag, Sarah Lazarovic's illustrations on The Hairpin yesterday covered just about every poncho in not just her life, but in ours as well. Love. Check out all of the ponchos here.

All illustrations by Sarah Lazarovic via The Hairpin

Kate Spade Fall 2013

It's that time of year again! The time where the heat begins to recede, and the evenings get a little bit breezier, and then suddenly it transitions into the season to trump all other seasons: Autumn! Or Fall, whichever you prefer. Though, it goes without saying what I personally prefer are fabulous jackets, cute sweaters, and hats. Enter the Kate Spade Fall 2013 Lookbook! I want everything. Obviously. But especially everything in the yellow and black sections...What are some of your favorites?

Kate Spade Queries

My fashion philosophy revolves around a bit of wisdom passed down from my mother: If you really love it, get it in every color! This has served me well, especially in moments where I just can't quite decide between two amazing items. In fact, it is in those very moments where I'm confronted with a tidal wave of self-reflection and existentialism. Who am I? What does this say about me? Am I a Joan or a Betty? A Jessa or a Marnie? A Samantha or a Charlotte? (...An advertising drone or a blogger...hmmm?)

Anyway, my unwavering enthusiasm for Kate Spade is large in part due to the diverse color palettes, style offerings, and perfect balance of kitsch and classicism. Lucky for me, this means I don't have to make any rash decisions just yet!

So...tell me. Who are you today?

Celina Dress in Zinnia Pink and French Navy

Karolina Pump in Silver  |  Karolina Bow Pump in Pale Pink

Lincoln Square Little Kennedy in Fresh White/Natural and Belflower/True Navy

Naturals and Neutrals

I am usually quite a fan of color. This we know about me, yes? But I feel like as my style has evolved over the years, or perhaps becomes symptomatic of life in New York, I find myself gravitating quite a bit more to some lovely neutrals and chocolate browns, rustic woodgrain and chunky natural knits. I've assembled a little mood board of neutrality to explain just what I mean. Take a look!

Via They All Hate Us

L: Via Basics of Man   I   R: Via Sevier & White Interiors

John Derian's Apartment via From The Right Bank

L: Brianne on Pinterest   I   R: By Jared Fowler via HomeLife

Via Live from IKEA FAMILY on Pinterest

L: The Knot   I   R: Cha Cha Diaries

Barr-Co. Pure Vegetable products from Anthropologie

Chatelles

I saw these beautiful shoes over at Justina Blakeney's blog last week, and fell in love. First of all, they are so incredibly classic. And then there's the fact that I live in a walking city and flats are really the only option unless I want to cause myself some pretty significant pain by the end of the workday... But these shoes!! They are so fun and customizable (and colorful and tasseled and monogrammed) Also, did I happen to mention Justina and I have the same initials? So I knew I had to blog about them. Do any of you have a pair? I am busy pondering whether or not I can get them in the US...

Image via Justina Blakeny

J'Adore Jackets: 2012

The time for outerwear is back in a big way, so since I had so much fun scouring the shops for my top Jacket Picks of 2011, I wanted to do the same thing for this coming season. From faux fur collars to belted waistlines and 60s silhouettes, you can't beat a great jacket to amp up any outfit! I think my favorites are #1 and #2. How about you guys?

1  Morning Coffee Shop Coat from Modcloth
2  Stadium-cloth Boulevard Trench in Neptune Green from J. Crew
3  Meringue the Bell Jacket from Modcloth
4  Apt. 9® Boucle Wool Swing Coat from Kohl's
5  Plenty by Tracy Reese Undiscovered Tomes Coat from Modcloth
6  Women's Short Trench Coat from Uniqlo
7  Double Breasted Epaulet Caped Coat from ROMWE
8  Tall Tipped Peacoat in Black from J. Crew

JSQ Red Carpet Rundown: Highlights from the Emmys

When I say highlights, I mean, "Did anyone notice the overabundance of highlighter-yellow gowns on the red carpet??" I was a fan of some more than others... My favorite was definitely the sleeves and stunning silhouette on Julianne Moore, and the particular neon color on Julie Bowen was pretty as well. Hear why they chose their gowns here. But the problem is...with this many gowns on the red carpet, none of these ladies had a chance of being crowned 'Best Dressed.' Where's Rachel Zoe when you need her? She would never have let this happen...Or did she?

Christian Siriano: Spring 2013 RTW

I have spent most of the morning pouring over the beautiful lines, textures and embellishments of this gorgeous Spring 2013 Ready-to-Wear collection by the already-iconic Christian Siriano. Since his debut collection winning Project Runway Season 4, he has proved time and again that he knows how to dress a woman and make her incredibly beautiful. This pastel, ballerina-esque collection is just another gorgeous feather in his cap. What do you guys think? Do you love the collection as much as I do?

This trio of finale dresses are my absolute favorite part of the collection.

Kate Spade Heels

I have been dreaming of nothing but shoes lately. I haven't bought a pair in...it seems like months. Who has time to shop, anyway? I haven't bought a pair of truly impractical pumps in even longer than months, but that hasn't stopped me from ogling these options from Kate Spade. Polka dots, stripes, ribbons, and glitter. I'll take one of each, please, but especially 3, 5, 7 and 8! Which ones are your favorite?

1  Reena in African Violet/Red
2  Bloom in Violet
3  Loire in Black
4  Sawyer in Multi
5  Lisa in Ink Blue
6  Corinne in Teal, Gold Glitter
7  Karolina in Black
8  Charm in Navy

Madewell for Spring

It's been a while since I've talked about Madewell. In fact, it's been a while since I've shopped there! But that's because my favorite thing about the brand is their Summery dresses. When the heat kicks up, I want to wear leather sandals and flouncy dresses, and long pendant necklaces, and maybe even a straw hat. And that is always the perfect mood for Madewell! What are your Summer go-to pieces this year?

1  Chambray Eyelet Dress   I   2  Silk Shapesketch Twist-Back Tankdress

3 Stucco Stripe Songbird Dress   I   4 Stitched Dress