Soft and Studded

The goods:
• dress from Anthropologie
• jacket from Urban Outfitters
• studded belt from ASOS
• ankle booties from Zara    

I love finding that balance between sweet and sassy, like taking this feminine floral print frock and adding some edge to it with this studded belt. I spotted this dress at Anthropologie and knew it would be a perfect versatile staple ... for a ladylike look at a summer wedding, to a cool casual look when paired with some sleek accessories.   

J'Adore

Hot off her Oscar win, "it" lady Jennifer Lawrence made her debut as the new face of Miss Dior. While the star usually has a sweet, girl next door look, Lawrence is almost unrecognizable with flawless makeup and sleek dark locks in this new glam campaign. I love the classic, almost old Hollywood feel to the images, proof that she really is a leading lady. 

Images courtesy of Marie Claire

Sophisticated Simplicity

The goods:
• tshirt, blazer, ankle booties from Zara
• jeans from Forever21
• vintage pearl necklaces    

It doesn't get more basic than a t-shirt and jeans. I picked this one up in the men's department of Zara, lured by the french writing, and hooked by the illustration of the speedy Porsche. I added some polish with a sleek black blazer and booties, and feminine touches with vintage pearls and a pink lip. When in doubt – or a rush – look no further than the basics, then add simple sophisticated touches.

And the Winner Is ...

The red carpet was full of lovely ladies strutting their sartorial stuff last night at the Oscars. There were very few misses, but a number of stylish starlets caught my eye. Below are the eight stunners that I honor with best dressed ...


Continuing her award show amazingness, Amanda Seyfried was a showstopper in this custom Alexander McQueen halter gown. The delicate beading and keyhole neckline, along with her perfect styling of messy updo and sultry makeup make her a winner in my book.



Halle Berry was magical in this metallic gown by Versace. The silver and black stripes and structured shoulders create an art deco design that delights the eye. 



The always lovely Charlize Theron wore a stunning Dior Couture gown. With the perfectly placed peplum, the split at the top and great styling with the sleek crop do, Charlize was definitely white hot.



With details like the belt, floral appliqués and layered hemline, Zoe Saldana's dress could have been overkill, but instead she killed it with this lavender Alexis Mabille gown. 



A longtime leading lady, Sally Field stunned in this classic Valentino red gown. The gathering at the midsection and delicate ruffles on the bottom half give this crew neck and long sleeve piece its dynamic details.



Jennifer Lawrence struck a balance between the fitted bodice and voluminous skirt in her gorgeous pale Dior Haute Couture gown. Perhaps the best accessory of the night, Jennifer donned a delicate long diamond necklace that dripped down her back.



Playing perfectly off her creamy complexion and gorgeous red hair, Jessica Chastain stunned in this nude beaded number from Armani Privé, complete with a bold red lip.



Like a character out of a fairytale, Amy Adams floated down the red carpet in delicate layers of pale blue/gray tulle in this strapless Oscar de la Renta ballgown. 

... also noteworthy were Naomi Watts million watt gown, and Samantha Barks gown during the performance by the cast of Les Mis.

Have a Sweet Weekend!

In an effort to eat healthier, I've been pining over recipes on Pinterest. I have a serious weakness for french fries, so I thought I'd try a healthy version with carrot fries — they're really good! (they taste sorta like sweet potato fries). I dip every fry into ketchup and Tabasco, so really these healthy alternatives taste just to me as good as their fried cousin.

Also ...

• This weekend, I hope to try out this recipe in the photo above for faux chocolate mousse (it's made from avocado!)

• I've mentioned before that I'm a big fan of NARS velvet lip pencils – also for awesome velvety matte lips I recently discovered (and quickly fell in love with) the new Ultimate Suede lipstick from Revlon. I want every shade, but started with Trendsetter - a bright berry shade, and Preview - a pretty neutral, like your natural color, but better. Maybe I'll don a bright lip and sip champagne while I watch the Oscars on Sunday!

• Continuing my day dream of warmer weather ... I'd love to sport this maxi dress as soon as the weather cooperates. I love the flattering cut of the halter, and the print is spot on for spring. It would even be great with a stack of gold bangles and sleek wedges for a summer wedding.

Have a great weekend!

Photo by James Ransom

Winter Blues

The goods:
• maxi dress from Forever21
• jacket from Zara
• ankle booties by Report

I'm not one to let my pretty pieces collect dust in my closet all winter, so I busted out this blue maxi dress, typically reserved for steamy summer days. Throw on some tights, pair it with ankle booties and a leather jacket and this dress easily transitions to cold winter wear.

Though truth be told - I'd much prefer this dress minus the layers, plus the 80 degree summer day!

Summer Dreamin'

When the windchill reads 5 below in Chicago, the only relief is to imagine you're someplace else, someplace hot. Photographer Gray Malin traveled the world, capturing the most beautiful sandy beaches, but from a new perspective. I just love how his aerial shots almost make these scenes look like model sets, when really there are lively bunches of people enjoying their day at the beach.  

Now if only we could speed this winter business up a little bit.

 

See his entire collection here.

The Not So Skinny

The goods:
• red blouse from Banana Republic
• jacket from Forever21
• jeans by American Eagle
• vintage Christian Louboutin wedges   

There was a time I cursed skinny jeans, wondering why on Earth would I wear such tight pants – all the way through the ankle – when my boot cut and bell styles clearly looked far better. Of course denim styles change, and while I still love my trouser and straight leg silhouettes, I snap up a good pair of skinnies whenever I find them. Lately I've been digging the boyfriend jean ... slightly slouchier, often cuffed, and very comfortable. They make me excited for spring, I'd love to pair them with a tall wedge sandal and a little flowy blouse. Proof once again, all of those clothes from years past that I'm holding onto will indeed come back in.

I've loving this pair, and these.

Pretty Pretty Polka Dots

There's something springy about polka dots - maybe it's that they look like tiny blossoms, or spring rain – whatever it is, don some dots this upcoming season! Below are some fun finds for adding some pops of polka to your look ... 

 

Pretty polka dotted pieces ...1. navy swing coat - $296.43
2. skinny calf hair belt - $24.95
3. fold over clutch - $58
4. metallic bow tie - $25
5. chambray shirt dress - $149.09
6. lavender socks (so you can sport springy sandals now!) - $12.50
7. denim vest - $27.80
8. navy capri pants -$98
9. iphone case - $40

Have a Fashionable Weekend!

If you've been keeping up with fashion week, then you've seen the sartorial splendor gracing the runways. I've been loving DVF and Rachel Zoe's beautifully tailored pieces for Fall - is it weird to be so sick of winter but already want fall fashions to arrive? In between dinner with friends and dinner with family, I'm looking forward to pouring over more shows.

Also this weekend ...

• The Vintage Bazaar is back in Lincoln Square today and tomorrow. Not only can you score fab vintage finds, but you can enjoy beer and cocktails, and Big Star will be serving delicious grub.

• Did you shop the Prabal Gurung/Target collab last weekend? I hopped online (early) Sunday morning and snagged this shirt dress and this sleeveless top, which I cannot wait to style for spring. Here's a rundown of what's left at area stores.

• Simply Stylist is a unique event, connecting consumers to beauty, style and fashion brands, and the influencers within those industries. Chicago's event isn't on the datebooks yet, but check out their site for updates and the Simply Style blog for inspiration. 

Have a great weekend!
 

Photos of Rachel Zoe collection from Style.com

Happy Heart Day

Happy Valentine's Day! I know it's a hyped up Hallmark holiday, but it's a great excuse to share some laughs and love (and sweets!) with those closest to you.  

Why not ...

Whip up this decadent – guilt-free! – dessert for yourself or to share with a valentine.

Sport something with a heart on it ... visible or not.

I'd love to find a wall in our home to do this!

Tell your loved ones how you feel with a fantastic - erm ... interactive? - valentine.


Enjoy your day! 

Photo from Pinterest (but would love to know the photographer!)

Dressing for V Day

Valentine's Day is a time to be with the ones you love ... be it family, friends, that special someone (or a book and your favorite bottle of wine!). Whatever you do, do it in style. Below are some pretty pieces to make the most out of this lovely holiday ... and add a touch of sweetness to the days that follow.

Clockwise from top:
• pink tweed moto jacket, $32.80 
• rose gold mini heart necklace, $13
• heart pajama set, $18.80
• red bow dress, $80
• lace buckle flats, $49.90
• sheer polka dot blouse, $100.20

Vintage Layers

The goods:
• vintage stripe shirt from France
• vintage YSL jacket from flea market
• skinny cords and rhinestone earrings from J.Crew
• silver flats from Repetto
• necklaces from Anthropologie   

There's an episode of Sex and the City where Miranda scoffs at the fact that Steve's only suit is all corduroy. Well sometimes head to toe cord can work – I've paired this vintage tan jacket with these deep navy pants from J.Crew. A bold striped shirt and pops of turquoise and silver make for a cool, casual, corduroy ensemble.

Spring Ahead with Loeffler Randall

Enough of this winter weather, I'm ready to bare some skin and flaunt some pretty florals and stylish sandals. I would love to kick off the season with any of the pretty pieces from Loeffler Randall's spring line below. The perfect blend of sleek structure and feminine details like bows and florals, Loeffler Randal's pieces send my sartorial heart full spring steam ahead. They're definitely on the pricey side, so until I can save up for a fave, I'll let these versatile, fashionable focal point serve as inspiration for my spring wardrobe.

Loeffler's Lovely Pieces ...
1. amelie swirl wedge - $375
2. mini rider bag - $395
3. leather and snake rider bag - $550
4. lulu bow sandal - $295
5. polka dot espadrille sneaker - $195
6. floral lock clutch - $295
7. snake pouchette - $225
8. dahlia platform sandal -$425
9. tamsin floral pump - $295
10. striped lock clutch - $350

See the entire line here.

Have a Lovely Weekend!

Happy weekend all! If you're in Chicago, I hope you have some yummy Restaurant Week reservations (my coworkers and I enjoyed tasty tacos at Mercadito last night, and this weekend Steve and I are looking forward to Le Colonial and TWO).

Also this weekend ...

• start planning your red hot look for Valentine's Day - see how we styled this fanastic red jacket 4 different ways

• Sunday marks the launch of the Prabal Gurung x Target collab. What are you drooling over? I'm loving this multicolored shirt dress - it's the perfect mix of edge and fem.

• Let's face it, most dudes need all the help they can get in the gift department - so why not make it easy for him this Valentine's Day and share this link to Dana Rebecca's lovely jewelry.

Have a great weekend!

Photo courtesy of TWO restaurant

Free Flowing

The goods:
• blouse from Forever21
• pants from Urban Outfitters
• pumps from Aldo
• necklaces from Stitch, Urban Outfitters  

I've noticed a pattern lately ... no matter what shop I go into, I keep gravitating toward flowy, relaxed blouses and tops. Inspired by menswear and the classic structured shirt, but redone in feminine silky fabrics with longer, a-line silhouettes, these easy pieces now make up most of my closet (the only difference is which shade of neutral, and the occasional embellishment). Tunic blouses have become a go-to for me - they're comfortable but still polished ... but I always balance out the volume with slim pants or leggings.