OOTD: Furry business.

I rarely wear this faux-fur vest from The Limited because it just sort of overtakes the outfit. However, I've seen it on other bloggers (so cute here on Krystal!) and decided to wear it despite its largeness. Honestly, I think it looks ok, now that I'm seeing it in photos. Maybe I've changed my mind on it, after all.

Also. The semester has begun in full force! Which means more of Justine trying her hardest-and-darndest to keep up with FF. But I'm committed, so no worries. Just be nice when I'm a sporadic-blogger again. I know, I can't stand it either. But my degree (and mounting debt) calls. :)

 Vest: The Limited faux fur vest

Top: Parker cinched waist top (here, in gray!)

Jeans: AE Super Skinnies

Shoes: Nine West

Necklace: Forever 21

Track Pants Trend

Despite my frustration with fall arriving in the fashion world right when I'm gearing up for sunshine and barbeques, I couldn't help but notice a new trend for fall this morning and yesterday morning-- the track pant. Both Shopbop and Net-A-Porter are suggesting to wear these previously-gym-bound-babies with heels and a pretty shirt (or even simple jersey knit). Here's my quick take-- the same rules that apply to the easy pant apply to the track pant. In fact, I have a feeling the track pant will be taking over for the easy pant come cooler weather.

Honestly? I find myself liking them (go figure). However, there is a fine line between going to the gym and going on a date, so let's review, shall we?

1. Keep it tailored. Juuuust like the easy pant, there needs to be some structure to this look. A blazer with strong shoulders, a cinched in jacket-- anything with obvious lines and some fitted aspects will do.

(Rag and Bone, Fall '10-- they got it down!)

2. Play off the opposites. To make it fun, pair the casual pants with a dressy top. Lace, velvet, brocade, even fur! (all very cold-weather appropriate) would be a great contrast to the relaxed nature of the pants.

(Photo from Mint Velvet)

3. Keep it simple. Although I've seen celebrity iterations of the look with lots-o-layers and fun baubles, for the mainstreamer, it's better to just keep it streamlined. Plus, it's never a great idea to overwhelm a new trend-- you run the risk of looking like a bag lady. Or just plain crazy. (Unless that's what your going for, then...)

(Photo from Fifi.com.au)

4. (Net-A-Porter says...) Wear heels! I agree with this in general, because flats or sandals might give off too much of the casual vibe. Then again, I bet some fun gladiators would work, too. It all depends on everything else worn with them.

(Net-A-Porter)

Other tips or tricks: wear them with a cute bag; choose pants with tapered legs; dare to go edgy; buy them in a neutral hue (grey, black or beige).

So, can you see yourself converting your gym wear to your evening wear? Is this more do-able than the easy pant?

Fetching Fashions Styles: the Romper

Again, let me know if there is anything else you'd like me to style, be it an individual piece or an idea or a trend. I'd be happy to oblige!

Mikaela asked me to style the romper, and she had several considerations: day vs. night; what sort of shoes; cardigan vs. blazer. As I quickly mentioned in the Q&A post, there is no right answer to this question. The great thing about this year's romper is that there are a million styles, from dressy to casual, and even within those styles there are a million ways to either do 'em up right or leave 'em as is. My personal belief about the romper is that it is such a easy-peasy outfit-- throw it on with some flat sandals and a necklace and you're GTG. But, if you want some ideas for how to do it up a little bit, here are a few ideas.

1. Cardigan versus Blazer?
As a very general (and not set-in-stone) guideline, I think the more casual the romper, the better it lends to a cardigan; the dressier, the better it is for a blazer. Always keep proportion in mind: that is key when deciding between something tailored and structured versus a more relaxed sweater. This Volcom romper (which almost has that skort/dress-short look) could go either way. Also, that style (shorts + thin straps/v-neck) is one of the more popular styles, so chances are you can take this idea to many other rompers you may already own. Here's how I did it:

Romper: Volcom

Cardigan: J. Crew Ruffles and Roses cardi

Jacket: Top Shop

Flats: Elie Tahari

Pumps: Aldo

Necklace: Charlotte Russe

The key is simplicity, I think. The blazer look is great with some pumps to accentuate the elegance and dress it up a bit, while the cardigan look is a nice daytime equivalent that is comfortable and relaxed. If you're not into the frills, no worries-- any regular cardigan in almost any color would do! Plus, in my opinion, a statement necklace goes with either and is super-versatile. I liked the pearls and bows to add the girly feel.

2. "Shoes... OMG. Shoes." ($10 goes to the one who knows what that's from. Ok not really, but I'd still think you're cool.)

The romper may be one of the best items for showcasing pretty shoes, because they can be such blank slates. This romper from Geren Ford is a perfect example (and may be one of my favorite rompers because of the more modest top contrasted with the short-shorts on the bottom!). To make it simpler for the purposes of this styling, I chose my most favorite romper shoe choices: the platform Shoetie or the embellished flat sandal. Click the photo for deets on each shoe, but they run the gamut from relatively inexpensive (Steve madden thongs for $100) to kinda pricey (Givenchy sandals for $500). Of course, that's what Polyvore had to offer-- there are plenty of shoes out there for any budget and any taste.

Oh-- and I think you can do flats for sure with a romper (see above), but because I prefer sandals, I gave sandals options here. For flats, I would suggest some neutral metallics (cute here!), especially if you're wearing a floral or printed romper, anything by Sam Edelman (I heart) or patent leather ones like above.

3. Day and Night (oww oww!)
This is where the tailored vs. loosey-goosey looks come in. To me, the more laid back and flowy, the more casual and good for day. The more structured and tailored (and blingy!), the better for night. I styled this very casual romper to show how even the most chillaxed romper can be taken from the pool to out to dinner with friends in the evening. It's by Ella Moss, the queen of comfortable casuals. I kept the look rather simple, but keep in mind: the day look could be accessorized with a slouchy bag, a scarf, more necklaces, etc... and the night look could be accessorized with bangles, drop earrings, bold metallics and even a low waisted belt (if it fit right and could cover the drawstring tie at the hip). I kept it simple so as not to overwhelm. (p.s., I love that necklace already styled in the product photo-- for day AND night!)

Jacket: F21 (no longer available, but you can find other sequin blazers out there!)

Cardi: Top Shop

Sandals: Florina by Playhouse

Platform sandals: Fergie (via Piperlime)

Hope that helps (somewhat)! Again, it was hard for me because I really, really think rompers can be done almost any way imagineable. Like I said, my only guidelines are keeping proportion in mind (balance low cut tops with longer bottoms; proportion a longer pant line with taller heels, making sure to accentuate the smallest part of you in bulkier items, etc) and keeping day time looks laid-back and flowy/night time looks tailored and structured. How do you do the romper??

Style Snag of the day

I saw these on GoJane and gaaaaaaasssp! Snag, snaggity snag snaggerific.

I have been such a sucka for platforms lately. Anyone else with me? I feel like I need to bring back some of my edge that I have relinquished a little this Fall. Last fall/winter, I was totally into the whole studded, "L.A." look, and these shooties will be a nice return. Tucked into jeans? Yes. With a floral frock? Yes. With patterned tights? Yeppers.

Score! :)

Sock-it-to-me

I credit Anjali at www.goldenmeans.wordpress.com for this find... or maybe I'm mad at her because husband will be mad at me. Well, whichever.... :)

Last year, I went sock-crazy. This was before people were sporting them in my area, and I recall the looks I got walking the streets of Dallas. Some were appalled, some were enticed, and some knew exactly where I got the idea (Shopbop's Fall lookbook 08). This year, socks are more in style, and my drawer full of them is looking a little smaller than I thought... hmmm...

Solution?

Sock Dreams!!

Socks+ruffles=dreamy. I love this look, and I would wear them with a fun pump like the one shown and a cute sweater dress with a scarf. These are mine. MINE.

I would wear these just they way they are pictures. Adorable! layered over black tights/leggings, some boots, and an oversized sweater.

These might be ridiculous. Or super cute with a simple high-necked dress (and, by necessity of the design, so short that I should be going to a costume party. sowhatwhocares.)

These will not be purchased. Because they are sold out. And I'm crying. Tears... How fun would these be with a patterned dress to catch the eye even more?!

1st eBay selling and Fall 09 trends

Whew! I have to say, my first experience selling on eBay was stressful. Staring at the price, refreshing every 2 minutes... come on, just one more dollah! ONE MORE DOLLAR!!!

Sheesh.

It was successful, though, and I plan to do it again. It beats my local consignment stores, for sure.

On another note, I need to impose a shopping-restriction until around the holidays (after Thanksgiving, I think). I've gone a little mad lately, and my closet is starting to shape up to the point of it being ridiculous to buy another item. Funny, because I don't think I bought the top trends. Let's review.

1. OTK boots: nope. As much as I wanted them, tried them on, and stalked styles online, I never bit the bullet. There is still time, yes, but the excitement has worn down a bit.

2. Fur. OK, yes. :) I plan to post an OOTD with it soon. It is the cutest faux fur vest from Limited, and it's the only one I found that looked slightly real.

3. Sequin leggings. No. Though I still think I'd rock em, they're so specific to going out-on-the town, and let's face it. I'm an old married woman now. :)

4. Faux leather/pleather. Besides purses and accessories, this is a no. I'm just not edgy enough. (LIFE-TIP: Know your limitations.)

5. Boyfriend/structured jacket. Nopedy-nope-nopers. Again, I want one. But I have so many jackets, and with the winter coming, I know I'd opt for a wool coat rather than a lightweight structured shoulder. Too bad, though. Maybe if this persists through Spring (which I'm sure it will), then I'll bite then.

Sigh. Despite my lack of a trendy wardrobe, which is quite surprising, I'm still happy with my pieces. There will never be a slow down of fashion trend, and I have my whole life to whoooor myself out. Right? right.

That being said, how did you fare with Fall's trends, lovies???

Coral and Turquoise-- like bread and butter.

As I was watching Dancing with the Stars last night, I was taken by the number of multi-strand, layered necklace beauties I saw. The host, a judge, even a few in the audience worked the fun trend. So, this morning I was inspired to wear my version. Here is my AOTD (accessory of the day)!

You always find the prettiest things when you aren't looking... I had gone in to Aldo Accessories one day, just browsing, and saw this in a black and white version. I remembered that this came in a multicolor (with yellows, blues, pinks, oranges...) and asked if they had that one in. No, the sales girl said. But, they did have this one on hold: a coral/turquoise mix. Lo and Behold... even prettier than the multicolor one! (I am a sucker for coral/turquoise. I don't know what it is, but those two colors are just perfect together. Like peanut butter and jelly. Or ham and cheese. Anyway.) In order to sell it, they decided to just forget about the girl who had put it on hold and sold it to me. So, to sum:

1) I'm kinda glad I was on that side of the bargain.

2) Girl who wanted this necklace, if you're out there, I'm sorry. It was the sales girl's fault.

3) Not sure I condone Aldo's "hold" policy. If you're giong to hold it, then hold it. Right?

I shouldn't be complaining, but I still feel bad. And this was months ago. Guilt runs deep. :)

My OOTD!

Ha! Would ya look at that. I actually did one today! :)

This is very similar to one of the first OOTDs I ever posted, but because I love it so much, here it is. AGAIN.

Top: BCBG

Jeans: Rich adn Skinny studded boyfriend jeans

Shoes: Steve Madden suede booties

Necklace: BP something or other

Belt: Express gold skinny belt

Bracelet: the fave AV Max pyramid studded sparkles cuff

So FYI, and anyone out there wondering how to do the boyfriend jean look in the Fall, this is my suggestion. It just looks so cute with the booties! and it would look very cute with some socks and high heeled oxfords, for those of you who like to be a bit more daring with your styling.

A little note: if anyone is experiencing some boredom with their same-old shopping sites (I know I am!), I've found that this season's Victoria's Secret is carrying some pretty cute stuff! I might do a post on this tomorrow, highlighting some of my faves. Especially the shoe department. They carry some great brands! Although this isn't considered some insider's find, I think it might prove an unexpected look at a site that can be rather hit or miss. Until then, lovies. Have a great Thursday (happy hour, here I cooommmmeeee!)

Fashion week Smashion week

I have a dirty, dirty secret, lovies.

I don't get runway fashion.

I know, I know!!! I'm a disgrace to all fashion-lovers out there! But I can't be alone. I mean, much of the new fashion is hardly translatable to "I live in the normal world" fashion. Asymmetry here, slashing there, bulges everywhere... what?!?! What do you suggest I do with this, Cushnie et Ochs???

Britney slip up, anyone??

OK. But disasters aside, there are many shows that are down to earth for people like me who can't prance around town with a veritable paparazzi-worthy photo-op (i.e. RTW collections). Here is what I love about Spring '10 fashion:

1. CHARTREUSE (and all big, bold colors). Gaahhhh, beautiful. The colors this coming season are magnificent and bright. Especially this yellow green that I noticed in many of the shows.

Lela Rose

2. Futurism (if that's a word). Pencey did it last year, and it seems like Leifsdottir may have thrown a little in, too. But this season's "futurism" is taking it to another level. Layers of material and space-like prints are beautiful and pull-off-able. Right?

Christian Siriano

3. Bandage. We all know this story, lovies. But it's continuing, and I'm happy. Though this may not be something new and unique, or even a token Spring '10 style, I'm loving the lines and wrapped material.

Band of Outsiders

4. Big bold florals (to pair with the big bold colors). Again, here is a way to take your current waredrobe into the Spring... with flowers! Nothing says Spring like fresh blooms, and almost everyone got the message. Gorge.

(p.s.: Get a load of Vivienne Tam's insane butterfly prints... Yes. I will def. be copying that one, so pretty!!!)

Vivienne Tam, DVF & DKNY

5. Messenger bags. OK. I don't know if this will really be a trend perse, but I noticed a lot on Vivienne Tam's runway (can you tell I'm in love with her?!)... so surely, it must be the new statement bag! Well... for me, at least.

Vivienne Tam

Of course there are about 1,000,000 other new and old statements that pranced onto Spring's runway, but I don't have the time (or energy) to find them all. I drooled over Vena Cava

Monique Lhuillier, Cynthia Steffe, Jason Wu, Costello Tagliapietra, Tuleh and so many others. Go check em out, lovies!