Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Holiday Party Style

Now that I had finally found my perfect sequin shorts, I had to pull a look together that was office holiday party appropriate. I wanted to keep the whole look tailored so I paired the shorts with a white shell, structured blazer, black tights and black textured flats. Had this been a non-work event, I would have swapped the flats for black heels.

Velvet Blazer - J.Crew
White Shell - Banana Republic
Jessica Simpson Antoinette Shorts - Macy's* (seen here)
Black Tights - Target
Seychelles Ballet Flats - TJ Maxx

*These shorts are sold out at Macy's, but still available here.

In Search of Holiday Sparkle

I had been looking for a new way to add some sparkle to my holiday outfits and thus my search for sequin shorts began. After searching for what seemed like ages, I found three contenders. They are (from left to right) Jessica Simpson's Antoinette Sequin Shorts, Old Navy's Metallic-Jacquard Shorts and BB Dakota's Alba Matte Sequin Shorts.

Now I realize that the Old Navy version aren't sequined, but they do have a nice gold brocade print that I think has serious potential. On to the reviews.

BB Dakota Alba Matte Sequin Shorts - Size XS
I knew it wasn't a good sign when the first thing said about my new shorts was, "those look like sequin gym shorts." But I have to agree. I knew as soon as I received these that they were going to be huge on me. They run very large in the waist and were definitely too long as well. It's too bad because I really loved this color. Verdict: Passed

Old Navy Metallic-Jacquard Shorts - Size 0
Again, before I even put these on, I knew they would be huge. Old Navy tends to run large in general, but after reading the online reviews of these shorts, I was hoping these would fit true to size. As you can see they didn't at all. They are large in the waist, hips and thighs. They also seem to balloon out at the bottom. Verdict: Passed

Jessica Simpson Antoinette Shorts - Size XS
Surprisingly, these shorts fit perfectly everywhere and I really love the gold color for the holiday season. They do seem a bit short, but I think adding some tights will solve that problem. Verdict: Kept and wore to my work holiday party. See the complete outfit here.

Thursday, December 15, 2011

More Pantone? Yes, Please.

As you may already know, I love all things Pantone, so when my friend sent me a picture of these toothbrushes, I knew I had to have them. Once they arrived I had to figure out what to do with them. They obviously couldn't be used as actual toothbrushes. Another friend, who just happens to be obsessed with home decor at the moment, suggested displaying them on the wall of my bathroom. Brilliant! Off to the craft store I went for a shadow box and some industrial strength double-sided tape. Mounting them evenly and straight proved to be a challenge, but I think they look great regardless. A perfect addition to my cheery bathroom.



In other Pantone news, the company has announced it's 2012 color of the year. Say hello to Tangerine Tango (PMS 17-1463). Read more about this vibrant and lively shade of orange here.

Monday, December 5, 2011

Sunday Best

This has to be by far the mildest fall we've had in DC in ages. I've been taking full advantage and resisting the natural urge to wear pants given the fact that it's December. I wanted to get a couple of wears out of this knit skirt before the weather got too cold and I love the look of the navy, orange and magenta together.

Donegal Tweed Ecole Jacket - J.Crew 
Striped Knit Skirt - H&M (seen here and here)
Conscious Collection Cotton Peplum Shirt - H&M (seen here and here)
Erin Dot Tights - Banana Republic
Mossimo Ruffle Flats - Target
Squiggle Scarf - Anthropologie
 


Thursday, December 1, 2011

All Pumpkin Day 2011

Besides being obsessed with fashion and design related things, I also have a serious affinity for celebrating made up holidays. Last fall a couple of friends and I decided to pay homage to the great pumpkin. All Pumpkin Day was born. Since then I have tried to spread the word around with the hope that this would be the one made up holiday that would catch on. There was a strong showing this year of both traditional and innovative ideas featuring the pumpkin. Hopefully the photos below will inspire your own All Pumpkin or all anything else celebrations!

 
Mixed Greens Salad with Dried Cranberries and Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin Soup

Mini Vegetable & Lentil Shepard's Pie with Potato Pumpkin Topping

My contribution - Pizza with Pumpkin Sauce, Mushrooms, Caramelized Onions, Goat Cheese, and a Balsamic Reduction

Pumpkin Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce

Pumpkin, Gingerbread, Brownie and Cheesecake Trifle

Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin Spice Martini

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Mary Katrantzou for Topshop! I die.

Ever since winning the British Fashion Council's NEWGEN (New Generation) award for emerging designers in 2009, Mary Katrantzou's popularity has skyrocketed. Her baroque style, distinctive prints and structed skirts show that she truly understands a woman's body and how to style it. Now her lovely designs will be coming to Topshop! So far there is only a tiny sneak peak of one of the dresses, but if the rest of the collection is anything like this piece we are in for a real treat.

Monday, November 21, 2011

Sunday Best

A large yellow necklace had been on my wishlist for some time so when I spotted this I knew I had to have it. The price tag was a bit hefty though so I waited it out and it's good thing I did. I was able to get it for over half off at a Kate Spade flash sale and with free shipping too! 

Hot pink and yellow is one of my favorite combinations and this necklace is a great way to jazz up a basic dress. Add some patterned tights and you've got a fun and colorful look that will brighten up any work day.

Cut to the Chase necklace - Kate Spade (sold out at katespade.com)
Amrita Singh Cocktail Ring - HauteLook
Gray Dress - Ann Taylor Loft
Pink Cardigan - Ann Taylor
Floral Tights - Banana Republic
Peep Toe Wedges - Target

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Clothes I'm Coveting

And a pair of shoes too. To be warm and cozy and stay stylish has always been a challenge for me. The cold just makes me so miserable that I really can't think about anything but keeping warm. In an effort to not look like a crazy bag lady that has gained 15 pounds due to all her layers, I have been searching for well structured pieces made of substantial materials. Cozy knits, funky coats and little suede booties all make my list.

Cheongsam Dress Coat - Tracy Reese for Anthropologie
This coat is very similar in style to another coat I have (seen here), but in a heavier winter weight.

Cashmere Cocoon Popover - J.Crew
I was in love with this reversible sweater last year as well, but with a hefty price tag of $1350 I had to pass. Really J.Crew, who do you think you are?

Tile Quilted Mini - Anthropologie
The thick textured material of this skirt makes it ideal for falling temperatures.


Mackage Single-Breasted Coat - Bloomingdale's

Love the knit cuffs and funnel collar.


Katama Chinos - Anthropologie
These probably aren't particularly warm, but I'm loving all things mustard for the season.

Petty Bootie - Sam Edelman

Monday, November 7, 2011

Sunday Best

For once DC is actually having a real fall and the weather has been beautiful. I am so happy not to have to go directly from summer dresses to three layers under all my pants. So in that spirit, I've been challenging myself to make my summer staples transition into fall. Pairing these lightweight shorts with ribbed tights and a tweed jacket provides some extra warmth and makes for a versatile autumn ensemble. 

Silence & Noise Jacket - Urban Outfitters (seen here)
Organic Cotton T-shirt - H&M
Lucca Couture Scallop Short - Urban Outfitters (seen here)
Necklace - Banana Republic (seen here and here)
Gray Peep Toe Wedges - Target

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Jonathan Hoefler Said What?

When I heard that Jonathan Hoefler was going to be speaking at the AIGA Pivot conference, I was beyond excited. Not only is he the creator of one of my favorite serif type families, Hoefler Text, he is pretty much a superstar in the world of typography. Because Hoefler was voted one of the forty most influential designers in America by I.D. Magazine, I knew I was in for a treat. So imagine my surprise when he uttered the words, "I don't think Papyrus is that bad." What! Could this be true, could my type idol really be saying these words. He followed up with, "it does what it's supposed to well, it's kitschy." At first I was outraged, but then I started thinking about it, maybe it's not the font so much that I loathe, maybe it's how people use it. Although it's supposed to signify kitsch, people most often use it to communicate fanciness. But then I think, if a font doesn't communicate what it intends to the masses, is it really a success? I'm still thinking on that one. In the end Hoefler's presentation was all that I hoped it would be, he even got me to open up my mind. Just a smidge though, I still pretty much hate Papyrus.

Monday, October 31, 2011

Sunday Best

Now that I have finally accepted that it's fall, I thought it was time to bring out the colors of the season. Not only do these colors scream fall to me, I really love the slight 60s vibe of the printed dress. I am not a hundred percent set on the shoes, but all of my heels just made the dress look way too short. Any suggestions?

Cropped Orange Jacket - H&M (seen here and here)
Printed Shift Dress - H&M (seen here)
Purple Herringbone Tights - The Gap
Amrita Singh Cocktail Ring - HauteLook
Nude Ballet Flats - Payless

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

It's Almost Here: Versace for H&M

After months of small sneak peaks, the full Versace for H&M collection is here. With it's bold colors, bright prints and daring cuts, the collection is everything I thought it would be. Although prices from $19.95 to $299 are a steal compared to the real thing, they are quite steep for H&M. I am eager to see if the quality lines up with the cost. 

The collection is set to launch in the US and Canada on November 19 and will for the first time feature home decor. My favorite women's and men's looks are below. Click here to view the entire collection.



Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Dead Ringer?

A couple of months ago my friend and I spotted the J.Crew Hacking jacket, but the price wasn't great and the fit was even worse, at least on me. It was just too big and boxy. I also wasn't sure how I felt about the gold buttons and am happy to report that the Old Navy version doesn't have them. Although the Old Navy jacket is made from fleece and probably not as good quality as the J.Crew wool version, I do prefer the one-button closure and shorter length.

Monday, October 24, 2011

Sunday Best

It's cold outside and I need to accept it. I know it's time to make the transition to fall clothing, but I'm not gonna let go of my summer dresses that easily! Navy and yellow has long been one of my favorite color combinations and I really like the mix of houndstooth and polka dots.

Jacket - Anthropologie
Dress - American Eagle Outfitters
Boots - Ann Taylor Loft

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Jason Wu is Coming to Target!

Jason Wu's pretty and proper designs will be coming to Target this winter! Wu is known for creating elegant and sophisticated designs and I expect that his collaboration with Target will be no different. The collection will be available from February 5 through March 6, 2012 and prices will range from $19.99 to $59.99.

Now I know I wasn't quiet about my feelings on Target's Missoni launch, but for Jason Wu, I am willing to give them another chance. Let's just hope they handle this round better than the last! Stay tuned for updates.

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Another Weekend, Another Wedding

The night before the Zac Posen for Target release, I pretty much got the worst sleep of my life. I was up every hour checking the website because I knew I just had to have this dress. When it finally showed up on the site at 5 am, I was able to order my size and I knew that it was going to be worth it. I waited and waited for the shipment confirmation. My heart broke when I received a delay in order email 2 weeks later followed by a cancellation email. I immediately started calling every target in the area and finally tracked down my size at the Alexandria Target. My good friend Liz was kind enough to pick up the dress for me. On a side note, my friends are sort of the best, they almost always take part in my crazy adventures. Liz brought the dress into work and it was just as gorgeous as I had imagined, but the second time I went to try it on, the zipper broke. Just when I had finally accepted that fact that the dress and I were not meant to be, I got a phone call from my mom saying she had found it in my size and on sale at a Target near her work!

I decided to wear the dress to a wedding this past weekend at Glen Echo Park in Maryland. Glen Echo has a very retro, vintage vibe and I thought the dress was a perfect fit.

Zac Posen for Target Brocade Dress - Target
Patent Navy Wedges - Payless

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

The Life of a Type Nerd

Is it wrong to be this excited over something as silly as wall decals? Yesterday we decided to spruce up our office area to give it more of a studio feel. We started with some great typography wall decals and I have to say they look amazing. Every time I walk by, I can't help but smile. I have had my eye on these decals for quite some time and they definitely lived up to expectations.



I pretty much love all things related to typography and just like all things Pantone, I want to advertise it for all to see. I already own some type sweatshirts, t-shirts and the kern track jacket below. And I must admit, I sort of love the look of confusion on people's faces when they see me wearing these items.

Below are some of my picks for the type nerd in your life. Click on photos for additional details.