Hot for Fall: Ladylike Bags

Dahlings, as I mentioned in my last post, I’m so looking forward to picking out a couple of choice pieces to spruce up my fall look this year. And over the next couple of days I’m going to feature the items I think are worthy enough to make their way into your closet. But remember to always do you; wear what looks good on you, fits your lifestyle and most importantly, fits your budget. Here’s one of several looks I’m loving this fall: The Lady Like Handbag.Until recently, the kind of handbag your mother might refer to as a "pocketbook"--and the word itself--was definitely a no go for the fashion set. But with fall's fresh approach to elegant, ladylike dressing as result of the Mad Men Effect, you won’t want to turn away from these handbags.


It’s time to give the slouchy hobos and oversize totes a rest this season. This vintage-inspired ladylike style-- topped off with a handle or two-- all look right with of-the-moment fashion, but also go well with just about everything in your closet. It's worth investing a little more into these types of handbags.  Because of their classic shape, they are bound to never go out of style. 

Here’s five to love.

1. Rachel Satchel

2. MICHAEL Michael Kors Handbag, Hamilton Chain Tote, Large

3. Furla-onyx croc embossed leather 'Yolande' medium shopper

4. Sorial medium tote

5.Halogen® 'Work' Leather Shopper

Coveting: Fall Must Have #4, The Sweater Dress

Dahlings, this time of year is so hard for me because there are so many delightful goodies to be had. But I must be strategic about my purchases since last time I checked I was still working for a non-profit. Geesh. So here I am coveting so many fab pieces to create the perfect Fall/Winter wardrobe. Lately I've been really desiring a sweater dress. I have a grey turtleneck one that I got from Macy's last year but it's bit form fitting and let's just say, it's a little too much to wear to the office since I got a little junk in my trunk, if you catch my drift. But I digress. I want a more relaxed fit sweater dress that I can wear on the weekends with a pair of flat boots or dress up with opaque tights and either a pair of booties or pumps. Honestly, the sweater dress is a must-have cold weather staple, and if you haven’t noticed, they are popping up all over the place at varying price points. Not only are they comfortable but they come in many different fabrics and in a variety of styles. It can be worn so many different ways; with a funky scarf and ballet flats for an easy weekend look, as a tunic - the shorter lengths look amazing with skinny jeans or over leggings for dinner or with a belt to change the silhouette completely to accent your waist. I noticed most of the sweater dresses in the stores tend to come in muted neutral colors, which may not complement everyone's skin color. I think you can't go wrong with a creamy color. I wouldn't suggest gray for everyone,which is a really big color this season. But don't be shy, go for a bright color if you want and pair it with gray or brown opaque tights or leggings making sure to match the color of your shoes to the leg wear to tone it down. I'm dying for a purple one myself. I should also caution that you  need a clean silhouette underneath your sweater dress. Wear a nice smoothing camisole or shapewear underneath to  flatten any potential bulges. Where to buy? Every where Dalhings! The stores are over flowing with sweater dresses! You can't escape it. Here are few online spots for inspiration or purchases, if you're so inclined: Tulle, Old Navy, Nordy's, try Anne Taylor Loft 's version for a more dressier look.

The Final Word: The sweater dress is about as close as you can get to wearing your PJ's to work. But no one will whisper behind your back about it. Need I say more?

Fall Fashion Must-have # 3: The Classic Winter Coat

It's November Dahlings, can you believe it! Aside from it being Turkey month and the official start of the holiday season, did you know November is a great time to buy a winter coat? Bet ya didn't know that. Well the absolute best time  is off season during the Summer and Spring months. But in Fall, not winter, the stores are still offering great deals. With my upcoming trip to Amsterdam in three weeks, now is the perfect time for me to start thinking of a shopping excursion to find a new winter coat that is both high on style yet warm enough to help me brave the dreary weather.

And so the Fall Fashion must have list continues with the very essential winter coat. The right coat has to make a strong first and last impression.  Besides being practical, the right coat can instantly boost your style quotient pulling your look together in snap. If you're thinking about buying a coat in the near future keep these tips in mind.

The Cut

 Essentially we want to stay away from the frumpy boxy look. The most classic style ever is the universal single breasted A-line shape, flaring out slightly from under the arms to the hem. It can either be single or double breasted and works best for girls with fuller bottoms.

The belted coat is another great look ( sort of resembles a trench coat but in a heavier wool). This style emphasizes your waist and works well for girls with fuller busts and those with  curvy hour glass figures.

Another version of the belted coat is the robe other wise known as the wrap coat, which works well for fuller curvier girls. The open collar on this coat will draw attention to your neckline. A single button and tie will accent your curves pefectly.The double breasted pea coat is another classic but better suited for girls who aren't too busty or have longer boyish bodies.

My favorite is the military style ( very in this season) for it's charm, impact and more structured feel. The trick with this coat is to make sure that there aren't too many buttons and other military details to ensure it's longevity and keep it from looking too trendy.

When it comes to length, knee length is always in style and works well with just about everything in your closet. And be sure to select durable fabrics like cashmere- and alpaca-wool blends, or newer high quality synthetic blend fabrics.

The Fit

What's most important when buying a coat is the fit. Don't forget to do the reach and lift test. Reach for something or pick your bag and throw it over your shoulder to test for ease and tightness of the shoulders and back. Make sure the shoulder line meets the edge of your shoulders. If the shoulder doesn't reach the edge then go for a bigger size, if the shoulder goes pass the edge, you need a smaller size. And don't forget the sleeves; the length should clear the top of your hand.

Side note: Sometimes you may come across the perfect coat but just need to customize it a little bit. I once tried on a camel wool coat at J.Crew that fit me perfectly in the shoulders but was bit too roomy for my frame. I purchased it  because it was a steal and took it to my tailor. She nipped in the waist and took up the sleeves and voila! Perfect. That purchase was over 5 years ago and and I still wear the coat every winter. I wouldn't recommend this to everybody but it's always an option for those of us lucky enough to have a great tailor nearby.

If you are petite avoid buying a long or bulky winter coat since it can easily overwhelm your body. Do hit up the petite section for a coat that is at most 3/4 length and that fits you very well to avoid overhelming your frame. Aside from finding the right style and fit, ultimately a coat should keep you warm. Go figure! Buy the coat a size bigger to account for colder days when you will have a cardigan or sweater on underneath.

Color
Stick to neutral colors like black, cream, or camel. Grey is a big color this season but doesn't necessarily flatter every body. Once you have your classic winter coat then you can venture into the bold colors and patterns.

Where to buy

A great coat is easy to find at a the price that you can afford. But do buy the best you can afford- you get what you pay for and the better the quality the longer it will last. You can afford to scrimp with more fashionable styles that will go off-trend in a minute. Some of my favorite places to shop for coats include Banana Republic, J.Crew, Macy's, Gap, Zara Nordstrom's, and Nordstrom's Rack, and  Loehmans for deep discounts.

Final word: The trick to buying a coat that will last year for years is to look for a classic shape with tailoring features like a nipped waist, vertical seams or panels that create a slimming effect. I'm off to search for the perfect coat, dahlings! Stay tuned!

Fall Fashion Must Have #2: Opaque Tights

Hello dahlings. The weather outside is frightful but don't let it ban you from your cute dresses and skirts. Apparently opaque tights are a must have the Fall/Winter season according to the style setters. To me tights are a wardrobe staple. I always pull  out my black tights when the weather gets a little chilly.

Fall Style Must Have #1: The Blazer

Fall is upon us ladies. And that means endless options of fabulousness. I have a growing list of must have items. I recently started my Fall shopping by purchasing a gray blazer, a little bit of an 80s' throwback but very in the moment for Fall. I love the notched faux-leather collar  and the side zipper pockets. But you'll never guess where I got it. I'm always looking for a good bargain especially since the downturn. I've noticed of late the JCpenney ads everywhere, so I thought, let's check out what JCP has to offer. And surprise, surprise. I found some very desirable items at tremendous discounts.
I especially love the "I Heart Ronson" line for it's cute edgy, yet very affordable pieces. The designer, Charlotte Ronson is Sam Ronson's sister, Lindsay Lo's former flame. Check out my find above. Can't beat the price ( $72 marked down to $29!) and I've already gotten major, major compliments.  The Blazer is big this Fall and can be found anywhere at all prices points. If you're getting a blazer for the first time, I would suggest a more classic version. I love blazers and have several, so this option is perfect for those days I want to add a sophisticated edge to my look. Final Word:  Get your Blazer on!