Eeny Meeny Miny Moe...

It is no secret that I'm a bit of a sneaker head these days...and with so many killer options can you blame a girl for trading in her heels?!

*Be and D has made quite the splash with their heel painted canvas shoes. Comedic and comfortable, I dig!

*One of the models at work strolled in wearing these red blazing kicks and I fell for the old school style.

*Found these knock off Sandro sneakers on eBay and realized I like them better than the real deal...probably because of the modified wedge heel!

*I'm sorry to bring us back here, but yes I am talking about another pair of Isabel Marant sneakers. This time in bleached denim...everything I've always wanted!!!

What I Want Now:: Forecasted Spring...

The forecasted weather for Thursday says it is going to be a high of 68 degrees with partial clouds. This, for any New Yorker before mid May, is reason enough to celebrate. With the information at hand, I couldn't hep but think of what I wish I would be wearing to greet the first premature hint of Spring.

I don't wear a lot of skirts, but this one from Acne I am all about...I'm a fan of anything that doesn't make me look precious. I'd keep it toned down with the coveted Celine tee, and add a POC with this H&M yellow jacket which has been sold out everywhere. My shoe game as of late has been restricted to all things with a hidden wedge, so my new pair of Willow sneakers is an obvious and sensible choice. No look is complete without an extensive arm party and the new 'it' bag hanging off that arm (ie Celine trapeze bag). A quick swipe of YSL's perfect shade of orange and I'm ready to sing with the birds and face the day with bare legs.

Elliott vs Marant...

As I begin the count down to spring/summer you'll have to bare with me as I sort through racks, images, and tear sheets of inspiration. Don't get crazy, my look doesn't change that much, but as always, needs a little pick me up to kick things off. The first addition on the list is a pair of camel leopard jeans. I have been comparing the Current Elliott stiletto leopard jeans against the Isabel Marant Etoile wabi jeans and this is what I've found...

{all images:: They All Hate Us}

Kinda of major and exactly what I want to be wearing with oversized sheer button downs and/or neon poc (pops of color...come on people)! Just when I thought I made my final decision, I spotted a similar pair at the affordable $22 price point, wait for it... at TARGET!

Can't wait for these little beauties to arrive.

Decisions...Decisions...

If you've been following my blog for a while, I know how sick you are of hearing about my deep rooted affection for all sneakers a la Isabel Marant... one of the best purchases I have made that literally has changed my life and personal style. Some of you might want to cover your ears because I'm about to go on another rant.

I thought I was satisfied with my purchase back in August, I bit the bullet and treated myself, but that is not the case! The purchase has me foaming at the mouth like a ravenous dog for more colorful wedge high tops (I can see it now, a closet full of wedge sneakers without a red soled Louboutin in sight...ahhh to dream)! So this is the crossroads I've come to. When I complete the adoption papers--which baby am I bringing home?!

Totally torn between two lovers...HELP!

Lets Talk Fall:: My Look...

Let's Talk Fall:: Your Look...

One Shoe Out the Coo Coo's Nest...

You know what I have to say on these bad boys already {blogged about them here, here, here, oh wait, here too!}! That said, you can only image my excitement when I heard there was a store in the city that still had them in stock. Friday afternoon I couldn't get uptown fast enough but once I arrived luck was on my side. My size was in stock in the bordeaux/black and black/black combos. With one on each foot I stood in the mirror gazing longingly and unsure which would be the best fit...

Ahhhh I did it!!!! I pulled the trigger, came home with the bordeaux pair, and couldn't be happier. Prepare yourself for many a wardrobe diary including these little gems!

Suit of Armor...

Don't get me wrong, despite the heatwave the past couple of weeks, I'm in no rush for summer to be over. I'm thoroughly enjoying the warm summer nights, beach trips, and sheer attire. However, I do love a good fall season with light layers and a conglomerate of jackets. Every season I attempt to edit my look to a well polished uniform but without fail I veer into other territories inspired by new and old. I know that this won't be the only look I'll channel this fall, but it is an easy no brainer that can translate throughout all aspects of my life.

{clockwise from l-r:: Helmut Lang asymmetrical leather jacket, J Brand straight leg jeans, Gap denim jacket with shearling lining, T by Alexander Wang muscle t-shirt, Isabel Marant wedge sneakers}

*Leather is like a second skin to me, it instantly elevates a look and can dress down even the most formal of attire--always a fall staple for me.

*I'm envisioning a season of rich pigmented skinny/straight leg jeans--think maroons, reds, olives and of course essential black and grey.

*I recently saw a guy wearing this jacket and fell in love (couldn't hurt that he was extremely good looking). A touch of 90's unglam!

*I've learned to embrace a good tee every now and again and this Alexander Wang muscle shirt is no exception--perfect for coming in from the cold and having to disrobe due to overheating inside.

*My ever so coveted Marant sneakers--won't even elaborate, you know my feelings on these puppies already!

A Few Of My Favorite Things...

June Ambrose has a style that I can't get enough of!!! When I saw this picture I literally screamed--she put a few of my favorite pieces together in one outfit.

{J.Crew denim jumpsuit and Isabel Marant wedge sneakers}

Absolutely dying!!!! The perfect ensemble for a busy styling/work day. Effortless, comfortable, chic, and put together. Genius--just plain genius!

Ever Thine::Ever Mine...

An excerpt from a convo I had last week with my friend Becky:: "Every time we walk by the store, Vic is always like, "Oh that's the designer that Mo likes, with the sneakers"....and I beam like a proud mom that he knows who Isabel Marant is!

{image from @juneambrose}

Just when I think I've gotten over my love sickness with the Isabel Marant kicks, they have to be thrown back in my face on twitter and literally in my dreams. Ladies and Gents, this purchase just might happen! Brace yourself!...

Sneak Attack...

Take a close look at these shoes...

{garance dore}

Does anything stand out to you? Besides being an updated more stylish version of my Adidas Sambas I had in grade school, Isabel Marant's sneakers have a hidden element. Inside the shoe is an incognito 3 inch heel. I mean, come on!!!!!!!! So what you're saying is I get to add height to my frame while looking calm, cool, and collected in my kicks!?... These shoes are like the push up bra for your legs! I'm dying for a pair, if anyone knows where I can purchase them, please let me know ASAP!!!

What I Want Now...

I'm officially itching for more sunny spring weather. The buckets of rain the last couple of days have just been enough. Crossing my fingers for warm weather this weekend and trying to narrow down my wardrobe for the spring and summer. It's hard for me to explain the look and feel I have in mind. Somewhere along the lines of boho+industrial+feminine. Like I said, really hard to put into words so this is where the visual aids come in!

{style.com}

I loved the look of Isabel Marant's s/s collection. It was infused with bold hues, easy flowing silhouettes, and nomadic/bohemian accents (ie feathers and fringe). It has a laid back vibe that is still relevant to city living. And the boots, who doesn't love a Marant boot!?

{style.com}

I was greatly surprised at how much I loved the D&G collection. It was a strong departure from what they are known for, but still held onto the brand's provocation and sex appeal. Delicate lace and eyelets worn with distressed denim and leather. Since I saw the collection I have been mentally planning to pair my dad's old denim button up with a J.Crew eyelet hem dress, beat up cognac belt, and reworked cowboy boots. I can't wait for the warmer weather!!!!!! I adore the lace micro mini shirt dress with, once again, fringe boots.

I know this is just the beginning of my must have list, but this year I really want to keep a focused and edited look for an entire season. Did I just present a challenge to myself?!!? You lovelies might be holding me accountable!... TBD

Favorite Fall Fads

As spring is slowly and delicately enveloping the city, I thought I better post my favorite fall trends before I discard them to enjoy the sun, outdoor seating at brunch, and beach filled days. Please bare with me as this could be a lengthy post...

{richard chai love, chloe, margiela}

I'm loving the idea of wide leg pants. Don't get me a wrong, I love my skinny and slim fit jeans, they easily tuck into boots and look equally as fanciful paired with knock out heels. They have been my go to bottoms on many a day. I just find that there is something so endearing and dapper about being tactfully clad in a set of flowing, eloquently tailored, wide leg pants. I'm resurrecting two pair of Lela Rose wide leg pants from my closet this fall and pairing with my newest obsession...clogs.

{proenza schouler, chanel}

I've quickly become obsessed with these onomatopoeic shoes. It started with the Chanel show last spring and then resurfaced when I saw Roxy's pair of eggplant clogs from Rachel Comey. Instant height in a shoe that is sturdy. I rarely slip into a pair of pin thin heels because I shift my weight like a clock pendulum and teeter toter as I walk. I save those show stopping heels for special occasions. Since I walk everywhere and all day, I want something that isn't just comfortable but telling of my style and personality. This is it!!!!! Perfect mate for any pant silhouette and adorable with skirts and dresses. Planning on clogging around in these all spring and summer...and straight into fall, especially with leopard prints.

{balmain, mulberry}

I say this in a very audacious tone, there isn't anything ground breaking about an animal print. They make there rounds every couple of years and then fade back into hibernation for a while. The difference this time around is that the prints are acting as a neutral. Why haven't we done this before?!?! I loved the styling at Mulberry with the looks being head to toe mixed leopard print. To pull this off you have to mix and match the size of the print and keep in mind similar color stories. So smart!!!! And if you give a girl an animal print, there is a good chance she'll ask you for a new fur to go with it!

{michael kors, j mendel}

There is no denying that fur, faux or real, was the biggest trend this season. I couldn't be happier about it! Designers pulled out all the stops to make sure we would be completely covered in furry goodness next time the brutal chill blows through the city. Furs were created in the likes of coats, vests, jackets, muffs, scarves, elaborate head pieces, gloves, even key chains. I was abundantly impressed with the variety that was presented. I'm eager as a beaver (or for a beaver) to acquire some new fluff for the chillier months that are inevitably going to come!

A few other trends I'm looking forward to that received honorable mention::

50's inspired pants... in all materials and colors

{isabel marant}

Over the knee boots are staying around, and in svelte suede.

{e. tahari}

Both of these are a little formal, but I think mermaid silhouettes are going to be revisited, but in a new life as day wear...mark my words!!

{m kors, derek lam}

(all images style.com}

Isabel Marant Moves to New York

I'm excited to get word that French designer, Isabel Marant, will be opening a long awaited store in New York. The store will be located at 55 Greene Street (at the corner of Broome). Not only will her store be next door to her husband's--handbag designer Jerome Dreyfuss, but will also carry her lower price lined, Etoile and jewelery. I'm over the moon excited for the indie designer to open her doors in the heart of authentic New York shopping hub.



{all images from style.com}

Fashion Psychoanalysis: Designers~Session 1

As stated previously, I'm working on a project with a fashion website that will currently remain nameless. I'm super excited about the collaboration, but it got me thinking that I need to get back to my fashion roots. The last couple of days I have been looking through old/new fashion shows, established and independent designers, trying to remember why I love and respect the ones I do. Much like taste buds, my appetite for fashion and designers changes frequently. However I do have a handful of designers that has remained consistent throughout the seasons.

Phillip Lim could do no wrong! The women's wear prodigy has inspired and excited the fashion industry with a heavy hand in street elegance. Like many contemporary designers, Lim is about designing and creating garments/looks that are understandable. A huge inspiration to my personal style is Lim's knack for combining dressy elements with casual counterparts (exhibit "A" copper lame pants with a grey sweatshirt). The collections are always injected with an air of romance that is ambitious while remaining prudent.

{both images from style.com}

If Phillip Lim was Barbie, then Proenza Schouler would be her cute, hip, younger sister, Skipper! The Parson alum duo captured my heart seasons ago, and constantly appears on my "What I Want Now" list. They have branded their collection on "real clothes." There are no trick or gimmicks to their designs or aesthetic. They design around versatility and never lack in pizazz or charm. They are edgy without being obnoxious, and sweet without the tooth ache. The collection is perfectly balanced and exquisitely executed. Apparently, two heads are better than one in this design house's case!

{both images from style.com}

Last year I was introduced to Isabel Marant. I stumbled upon images of her Spring 2009 collection and fell in love with the patch work pieces and slouched boots with chains haphazardly wrapped around the ankle...which actually inspired my own DIY boots. Season after season she continued to send awe inspiring garments down the runway. It isn't just her apparel that I long for, Marant has put her best foot forward into footwear. Days after she presented her fall collection in Europe, editors at large were seen walking the courtyard to the next show in her famous footwear.

{elle.com & style.com}

DSquared was one of my first fashion loves! The first time I saw the Caten's collection was during cycle 2 of America's next top model. The brothers design with a sense of humor...gossip magazines, venti Starbucks cups, and cigarettes down the runway is in tune with Santino's "lighten up it's just fashion!" The collection is continually innovative and imaginative, but still retains an element that is polished. The collection always combines an aesthetic that is fun and effortless but understands that women like to get dolled up on occasion too with a dose of sex appeal.

{all images from style.com}

I could look at different collections and shows everyday and find something new to be inspired and moved by. Narrowing down to just a few was extremely difficult, but I had to choose the ones that have a hand in my love for the industry, design, and craft. One last designer that can't go unnamed and needs no explanation is Balmain....enough said and I'm sure you understand why!