Perfectly Patent

This season, I'm pretty excited about the patent leather explosion that has happened all over the fashion circuit. I've always liked the sheen and the shine inherent in patent leather, but the color variety is everywhere! I can't get over the ways patent is showing up- in shoes and bags, yes- but in belts, in the trim of clothing or even hair accessories. No matter where you find it, it's a season favorite and you should embrace the color spectrum while it's hot!

Let's review how great patent is...

In shoes: I especially would love these with a simple white A-line skirt and a floral top that can pick up the lime green...

In bags: This is the perfect size wristlet- big enough for something like the iPhone, and not so big that you should have brought along a purse anyway. The large flap is not only adorable, but secures your belongings...and it's on extra sale (additional 25% off right now!)

In belts: I initially thought this wasn't cute, until I saw it in person. The subtle woven patent reminds me of those woven brown leather belts everyone wore in the 90s, but better! And the pop of red would look very cute with white denim jeans or even simple dark denim jeans.

And some fun non traditional patent leather...

Trim on a jacket: Love the mix of a trench (see previous post) and the accent of black patent. It pops perfectly and brings life to a traditional color and style. LOVE it.

In the Trenches

After the wicked (yes, I said wicked) rain storms from last week in New England, the term "in the trenches" came to mean more than the obvious! I saw more trench coats out in full force than ever before. And not just for style reasons...practicality won over tenfold!

Yet, this spring, trenches are EVERYWHERE. Holding true to the color of choice, khaki, they are exploding at stores across price ranges. From the iconic Burberry trench (seriously, if I could afford this, it would be mine), to the more reasonable ones at Gap, Ann Taylor LOFT and Banana Republic. I've secretly coveted this adorable one at Anthropologie sporting tiered ruffles!I did finally cave and snagged a well priced one from LOFT that looks precious with a colored long sleeve shirt popping out from the 3/4 length sleeves. (My mom's idea) Months ago, when my mom, sister and I ventured out for Black Friday, I scored an adorable black trench at Kohl's made by Simply Vera (Vera Wang), which I have started to wear. It's the perfect weight, and reminds me AGAIN why this classic style coat spans decades.

I'm ready for the next rain storm (especially now that I finally got my GustBuster umbrella- see my entry from January 21, 2010) so bring it on! Or, maybe just a gentle, spring rain shower instead of a nor'easter?

Lady Liberty

I know, you could see this blog coming from a mile away, right?

I would be amiss if I didn't write about Target's newly launched designer Liberty of London. What a festive and playful line of clothing, shoes, home accessories, and furniture! It definitely has a 1970s vibe, slightly "hippy" like, but an incredibly appealing use of color and design. Here's their iconic pattern called "Sixty":
When I ventured into Target the day of it's launch (March 14th), I couldn't BELIEVE how sparse the shelves already were. It was evident people were anticipating the arrival, as merchandise is already sold out on line and definitely limited in the stores. People, this is BIG! I happened on this large tapered bin that is pleasantly holding all of my throw blankets!

It's worth mentioning there are five different patterns (not just the one above) in the various merchandise. Rich with pink, blue, purple or teal tones, my guess is you will find one to adore. I'm liberated just thinking of it all :)

Naturally Fabulous

I've been a slacker blogger (my apologies) so I better get to my latest fashion obsession: the patent leather neutral/natural shoe! I have sworn against natural shoes for years...my skin is just far too pale with subtle pink undertones. It seemed ridiculous to own a shoe that didn't "pop" against my skin, until recently...

I've seen so many magazines highlighting the natural patent leather shoe to elongate a woman's leg. Shown with bold print dresses or even basic black skirts, the patent natural shoe is absolutely STUNNING. In my recent trip to Dallas, my mom and I hunted down an adorable pair (see Franco Sarto below) that is perfect for my profession and style. Here's a few of my favorites:

Nine West "Dive in" Pump: This shoe looks amazing against my skin tone. I wasn't crazy for the style, but the color was a near perfect match for my slightly pink undertone.
Enzo "Starlite" Pump: I really liked the combination of platform and peep toe in this shoe. I know it's high, but remember there's a 1" platform to work with!
Steve Madden "Ulltra" Pump: A classic style, perfect for the office. Nice heel height and reasonably priced.
Franco Sarto "Flounce" Peep Toe Pump: My recent purchase :) I was thrilled that a) it was on sale b) the peep toe/bow is right up my alley and c) the color actually looked great against my skin. SOLD!
Stuart Weitzman "Platswoon" Pump: And if money were no option, who wouldn't buy a pair of Stuart Weitzmans...I saw these in person at Nordstrom. The color is to die for. And I'll refrain from linking to a Jimmy Choo shoe that was the PERFECT shade for my skin, classic style and heel height, but nearly $500. Gulp.

Ok, I can't resist at least SHOWING you the shoe...tell me this isn't naturally FABULOUS?!