Style Inspiration: Falling in Love With Lace

Fall... Where are you???!!! As you can see, the folks here in Cali are still experiencing quite a heat wave this week. There's been no sign of a cool down (at least in our area). Most people would be ecstatic. Me?? I've had enough. My jackets and cardis are dying for some action. But I'll have my wish very soon... Twin Cities, I'm heading your way next week!

The Look: Imagine layering this outfit with an anorak or a lush leather jacket. Hmmm... I was almost afraid to wear the sheer lace top by itself. Back in my 20s, I wouldn't have given it a second thought. Now in my late 30s, it's become a matter of concern. Surprisingly, no one seemed bothered by it. Just pairing it with twill shorts was perfect for a day like this. Not too casual-still very chic and pretty. And I didn't overdo the accessories since my studded wedges had a lot going on. Just a statement watch and gold nugget bracelet to complete the look. Love it.

What I Wore:

When: Sept 27th

Where: Around Town

What:

Lace Top: Zara

Twill Drawstring Shorts: Blank NYC

(once twill pants tailored into shorts)

Chrono Watch: Michael Kors

Studded Wedge Sandals: Lovely People

Black/Gold Nugget Bracelet: Shashi

Fabulous for Less Under $250: Daytime Glam in Faux Fur

Whether it's faux or the real thing, fur is definitely a major trend this season. Maybe not top on everyone's list, but certainly fun to try. For daytime, I love the idea of glamming up a blouse and jeans for an afternoon with the girls or just around town. It's one of my favorite looks for fall and we're doing it for under $250!

The Look: In this fabulous for less, it's retro-inspired with flared jeans in a great dark wash. The faux fur vest adds such amazing texture and interest to the look. Leave it open to bring out the gorgeous color of the blouse. I love a sheer or silky top for this; it has such great movement and so easy to wear. The shoes... In looove with these leopard wedges by N.Y.L.A!! The print adds just that touch of sexy and wow; a little peep-toe and done in calf hair-insane!!! Another fabulous option are lace-up wedges in black suede; so rich and chic. A chunky gold bracelet and playful pendant necklace is all you'll need to get daytime perfect.

Note: Love this look for petites too. The jeans are cut so perfectly and not too wide or flared to overwhelm your frame.

"DAYTIME GLAM"


BB Dakota Janika Faux Fur Vest in Black $65
Forever 21 Semi-Sheer Oversize Button-Up
in Teal $17.80
Free People Linked Bead Bracelet $28
ASOS Extra Long Mixed Medal Viola
Pendant Necklace $10.98
Forever 21 Longline Basic Cami $2.80
Diesel Flare Jeans $45 (sale)
N.Y.L.A Marce Wedge Bootie in Leopard $79.95
(Total $249.53)

Style Inspiration: Made the Grade

School conferences... Can't believe we're already here. I was a little nervous this time. Although he seems to be enjoying the new school year and doing well, we've had a big jump in homework. I think we're finally getting into a good routine. He assures, "Oh, it will be good Mom. Really." Why I worry so much, I don't know. So far so good. His grades were beyond our expectations. Yay!!!!! So proud.

My outfit choice: For some reason, wearing a dress always makes me feel more "mommy." I wanted a dressed up look, but didn't want to be too "boardroom." This particular style just has that very classic ladylike "Jackio O" feel about it. The shape is so flattering and I love the print. Early morning, I layered with a cardigan. But by noontime, temps had reached nearly 90 degrees-it had to go. A slouchy hobo instead of structured bag felt more casual and less formal. Fun caged wedges and gold accessories to finish the look.

What I wore:

When: Sept 21th

Where: Neighborhood

What:

Dress: Zara

Leather Hobo: Michael Kors

Tusk Ring: ASOS

Leather Wedge Sandal: Lovely People

Gold Bangle: something old but love

2011 Primetime Emmy Awards Red Carpet: Best Dressed Stars

The 63rd Primetime Emmy Awards was held live at Nokia Theatre LA on Sunday September 18th. And the best dressed stars that wowed the red carpet...

Gwyneth Paltrow

With big risks comes major reward or disappointing flop. What Gywneth Paltrow brought to the Emmys red carpet, I call "calculated" genius. This Emilio Pucci was unexpected and daring; loved the sheer black lace. We've seen enough boobage on the red carpet, this midriff baring gown gave us something new and fashion-forward. In love!!! My favorite of the night. Gorgeous jewels by Neil Lane.

Nina Dobrev

Sizzling in red! A huge trend on last night's carpet. Vampiries Diaries Nina Dobrev gave us majorrr wow with this curve-hugging Donna Karan. Talk about insane body!! Loved the textured bottom and just the glamour of her side-swept hair and makeup. Perfect jewels by Neil Lane, Brian Atwood heels, and Judith Lieber clutch.

Heidi Klum

Heidi Klum was stunning in Custom Christian Siriano. I loved everything about it; the subtle shimmer, giant pom-pomish ruffles, and hair and makeup was young and fresh. She literally glowed on the red carpet. Love!




Claire Danes

Now, this is the way to do Emmys! Claire Danes looked amazzzing in a strapless Oscar de la Renta. In shimmering blues and black.. Doesn't the palette just put you in the fall mood? The colors were perfect with her blonde locks and sun-kissed skin. Totally glamorous.

Cat Deeley

Love it when the girl wears the dress. Cat Deeley of SYTYCD made Emmys dressing look easy in Monique Lhuillier. The sweetheart neckline; specks of metallic gold and bronze; light tulle bottom; it was all very sexy and glamorous. Loved the tousled hair. Diamonds by Bulgari.

photos/Getty Images & Wireimage

Style Inspiration: Fashion's Night Out Los Angeles

Fashion's Night Out, now in its third year was celebrated across the globe last night. From Australia to the United Kingdom; New York to Los Angeles, fashion lovers hit the town for an evening of parties and shopping.

Being it was a Thursday night (school night), we almost didn't make it out. Rush to do homework... No late night sitter... Not to mention, I had to pull hubby away from the first football game of the season. Yes, I owe him majorrrr.

We opted for the Grove in LA (can't beat easy parking). The scene was definitely more relaxed and family-friendly than many party spots. It was great seeing other parents with their kids-enjoying the evening. I could have stayed for hours. DJ played in the park and champagne flowed throughout the shopping center. It was happy shopping!

Here's what I wore: Daytime temps have been so hot. It felt great to finally be able to throw on a jacket. I love the ease of this unstructured Monrow. And the navy/black combo is such a subtle play on the colorblock trend. So chic for a night out. I wanted to do more than a basic tee for the look. Gold foil graphics on this top definitely made it more evening. For accessories... I went for mega statement. This gold knotted necklace felt very Cleopatra-esque and added a glamorous touch. Fierce cutout wedges... Yes! And had to bring back one of my favorite bags. I've had this Botkier for a few seasons now and still love it!! It's so chic and the hardware is just gorgeous.

When: Sept 8th

Where: The Grove LA

What:
Knit Jacket: Monrow
Gold Foiled Tee: Zara
Gold Necklace: TJ Maxx
Skinnies: Blank Denim
Cutout Wedge Sandals: BCBGeneration
Leather Satchel: Botkier
Two-Tone Watch: Michael Kors

Get Ready for Fall: Best Fall Coats from Zara

Being in the mindset of Fall is a bit challenging when temps are still in the 90s. But for the rest of the country, it's cool weather planning time. So jealous because I love layering season-especially with all the gorgeous coats.

Just in! Uber chic and fabulously hued are some faves from Zara. And great news... America, we can now shop online. Yes, Yes, Yessss!!!

Double-Breasted Coat in Mustard




Double-Breasted Coat in Navy




Double-Breasted Coat in Teal

Style Inspiration: Labor Day Weekend at the Fair

I have to admit it's been forever since we've visited the fair. The last time was at the Minnesota State Fair-our son was just 3 years old. He's now 9. I know... Needless to say, we were all pretty excited for a day of rides, games, and cotton candy.

Toes filled with dirt and dress full of hay... At the end of the day, I was a mess. I didn't care. The weather was perfect and we had a great time-our son played nearly every game (yep, we got sucked in). Although, we did leave with a handful of carnival wins.

The Look: You may remember, this is the same maxi dress I wore during our trip to Maui. It's a favorite. I just love the bright color, but knew it would be too chilly to wear alone. Adding a cropped sweater worked great as a coverup. And putting these two pieces together instantly created this colorblock effect-looove!! I went for a flirty retro vibe with leopard wayfarers and a vintage crossbody bag. Jewelry was simple, but still felt very substantial with this "fireworks" necklace and floral bangle. And of course, had to go comfy with flat gladiator sandals.

When: Sept 3rd

Where: The Malibu Fair

What:

Cropped Sweater: H&M

Maxi Dress: Gypsy 05

Fireworks Necklace: Madewell

Leopard Wayfarers: H&M

Leather Crossbody Bag: Vintage

Studded Leather Gladiator Sandals: DV by Dolce Vita

Gold Floral Bangle: Purchased in Maui

Gotta Have It: House of Harlow 1960 Handbag Collection

Chills... That's one word to describe Nicole Richie's latest handbag line, House of Harlow 1960. As a designer, she's found a way to translate her signature boho style into an amazing collection of vintage meets modern gotta have its.

Her clutches are luxe in detail; from bold, striking hardware, glamorous crystal accents to classic leopard calf-hair. I want it all!!

Val Clutch




Olivia Bag





Orlina Clutch