Splurge of the Week: Versace

We love a great long-sleeved dress, and this one by Versace is our splurge this week.   The ribbing, sheer open-knit, and pointelle detailing are exquisite, and the vibrant royal blue hue makes it a definite show-stopper.  It captures the essence of the history of Versace with its figure enhancing style, but is countered with the long sleeve.  Wear it with a simple yet bold bracelet and/or earrings and a strong shoe for a night out or dress it down with tights and flat boots for day.  No matter how you style it, you are sure to be a hit!   

VERSACE Knitted Stretch Dress, $1250

Season's Best: Geometric Drop Earrings

Accessorizing with unique pieces of jewelry is one of the best ways to make a look your own.  One major trend this season in jewelry is geometric shapes.  From necklaces to rings, geometric shapes are taking form everywhere.  Our favorite take on this trend, however, is the powerful effect such simple shapes have when stacked together in a drop earring.  The end result is something so chic and elegant but with a sharp edge.  Here are our picks for Season's Best: Geometric Drop Earrings!     

JOHN HARDY Dot Silang 18-karat Gold Drop Earrings, $695

OSCAR DE LA RENTA 24-karat Gold-Plated Geometric Clip Earrings, $185

ASOS Abstract 3D Arrow Drop Earrings, $26.86

Red Lips: 3 Ways

A red lip is always in style, but it's important to find the right shade that works for you.  There are many ways to do a red lip, and here are three of our favorites.  We love a great classic red lipstick, especially this one by Chanel.  It's an easy way to add a pop of color to a simple chic look.  Lip stains are another great way to get a bold red lip.  Laura Mercier makes a gorgeous lip stain in a deeper bordeaux red.  The lip stain is a little more subtle and has more of a natural look overall.  If you want to go for more of a Hollywood glamour look, then try LipFusion's plumping lipgloss in a berry red shade.  The combination of the plumping affect and high shine gloss in a bold color will certainly leave a lasting impression.   

CHANEL Hydrabase Lipstick - No. 166 Fuego, $39

LAURA MERCIER Lip Stain - Mulberry, $29

LIP FUSION Lip Plump Color Shine in Berry, $38

Karl + Net-a-Porter

Karl Lagerfeld's collection on Net-a-Porter is now available.  In addition to clothing, there are accessories, shoes, and bags.  We love the edgy feel of the collection, especially the predominance of black and white with touches of silver and burgundy.  See our favorite looks below, and check out the entire collection here!

Jela Metallic-flecked Twill Jacket, $470

Ossie Two=tome Leather Biker Vest, $675

Jacinda Karl-print Jersey T-Shirt, $100

Safa Metallic Leather Skirt, $445

Black Textured-leather Shoulder Bag, $405

Designer vs. Deal: Striped Pencil Skirts

Stripes have been a staple in my closet for the past few years, and I constantly find myself adding more and more pieces to my ever-expanding collection.  However, I don't have a striped skirt...yet, which means I just may have to get one!  I love both of these skirts below by The Row and Tibi!  I especially love Tibi's use of thin stripes and dark background, which will have an overall slimming effect.  However the luxurious cashmere of The Row's Remsen skirt is certainly appealing!     

THE ROW Remsen Striped Cashmere Skirt, $950

TIBI Striped Knitted Cotton Pencil Skirt, $270

Cheap & Chic: Two-Tone Tote Under $50

Spring collections are hitting stores soon, and colorblocking is still a major trend.  We found this great option from the Gap for our lastest edition of Cheap & Chic!  This tote is the perfect size and a fabulous addition to your everyday wardrobe.  It's simple chic design is perfectly balanced with the bright orange accent.  We can't believe it's under $50!

Gap Colorblock Tote, $44.95

10 Crosby Derek Lam Resort 2012

Derek Lam's diffusion line called 10 Crosby, which launched with his Resort 2012 collection is in stores now!  Each look is infused with a downtown vibe and has an element of effortlessness, yet the overall look is sophisticated and modern.  Prices for the diffusion line range from $165-795.  Below are some of our favorite looks from the Resort 2012 Collection.  To view 10 Crosby's Spring 2012 collection, click here!  We can't wait to get our hands on a few of those pieces, but in the meantime you can shop the Resort 2012 collection below.

Collarless Print Shirtdress, $395

Shawl Collar Jacket, $495

Double Collar Shirt, $255

Cuffed Shorts, $195

Long Sleeve Crew Sweater, $270

Pleated Trousers with Suspenders, $325

Budding New Scent

Issey Miyake 's new fragrance "L'eau D'Issey Florale" is both feminine and modern.  It embodies the pure scent of the freshness of the rose.  It includes notes of Rose intertwined with mandarin, lily, and orange blossom with deeper notes of white wood and finally musky giving it an exotic finish.  This scent is the perfect addition for every day or that special occasion.

Issey Miyake L'eau D'Issey Florale: Eau de Toilette .84 oz.- 3 oz., $47-$89

Classic With a Twist: Alexis Bittar Crisscross Necklace

We find that we tend to wear the same jewelry every day.  We love pieces that are classic and timeless, but not generic.  This necklace falls into that category.  It is traditional enough for every day, but it has a unique twist so that it won't get boring.  Plus, at $195, this 18 karat gold-plated design is a great buy.

Alexis Bittar Crisscross Necklace, $195

Color Trend: Winter White

Throw the rule book out the window because white is no longer reserved for summer months.  This season there are some amazing winter white pieces that are both rich and luxurious!  From the ultimate leather biker jacket to icy crystal drop earrings, white has never been so chic!  For a bold impression, dress head-to-toe in a monochromatic ensemble...or add just a touch of this color to your look with sleek white accessories!     

1. JOSEPH Lambskin Biker Jacket, $1,423

2. LULU FROST Navette Silver-plated Swarovski Crystal Earrings, $165

3. MICHAEL KORS Two-tone Silicone Watch in Rose Gold/White, $225

4. YVES SAINT LAURENT Tribute 105 Sandal, $1,095

5. VALENTINO Rockstud Studded Leather Tote, $2,595

Splurge of the Week: Rick Owens Biker Jacket

RICK OWENS Blister Washed-Leather Biker Jacket, $2,465

Cheap & Chic: ASOS Blue Pant

Bright pants have been on trend for a few months now (see our post on bright trousers here), and we're still in love with these vibrant hues.  In order to get more wear out of this trend, stick to a more basic color like blue.  We love these belted pants by ASOS!  The color is gorgeous, and you won't be sick of them by next season.  Plus, they are under $20, so you can't really go wrong! 

ASOS Belted Peg Pant, $62.67 On sale for only $16.11

Spotlight On: Jason Wu for Target!

Looks for Jason Wu for Target, $19.99 - $59.99

Accessories for Jason Wu for Target, $19.99 - $49.99

We love a great designer collaboration!  The latest collab that we can't stop talking about is Jason Wu for Target.   Images have finally been released, and we can barely contain ourselves!  The collection, which includes womenswear, bags, and scarves, is one of the best we've seen.  His ladylike and feminine aesthetic is perfectly paired with a sense of practicality.  Mark your calendars...Jason Wu hits stores February 5th!  To view a special video featuring Jason Wu for Target, click here!

Amanda's "Editorial Shot of the Month"

Vogue, January 2012

Editorial: "Vice Versa"

Photographed by Steven Klein

Fashion Editor: Tonne Goodman

Model: Shalom Harlow

Jason Wu petal-print silk-chiffon dress ($1,795) 

and belt; Stetson Hat

Taylor's "Editorial Shot of the Month"

Vogue, January 2012

Editorial: "A Man For All Seasons"

Photographed by: Annie Leibovitz

Fashion Editor: Grace Coddington

Highlight from Collections for Louis Vuitton

Beauty Trend: Lilac Makeup

DIOR Vernis in Forget-Me-Not, $23

STILA Eyeshadow in Wisteria, $18

LAURA MERCIER Lip Glacé in Nude Lilac, $22

NARS Blush in Mata Hari, $27

Winter Hair Helper

Winter brings dry air which can have a negative affect on your flowing locks.  Luckily, Bumble and Bumble has created Concen-Straight.  This non-damaging treatment not only straightens your hair, but it adds shine, reduces frizz, and manages flyaways.  Bonus: A single use lasts up to 30 shampoos!

Bumble and Bumble Concen-straight Smoothing Treatment, $45

Fallon Obsession: Nixon Black Watches

Black watches are the perfect accessory to nearly everything in our winter wardrobe.  We are currently loving these Nixon black watches so much that they've become our latest Fallon Obsession! They add just the right amount of edge to any outfit and transition seamlessly from day to night. Pair black accessories with bright colors to neutralize the look or add a black watch to a head-to-toe monochromatic black ensemble for an effortlessly chic timeless look.    

     

Clockwise from top left:

The Tessa, $350

The Monopoly, $225

The Kensington, $175

The Capulet, $160

The Small Ticket, $250

The Spur, $300

The Ceramic Player, $1500

Great Find: Sam Edelman Felicia Flats

I recently purchased these Sam Edelman Felicia flats and could not be happier!  They are unbelievably comfortable and go with nearly everything in my closet.  I love the neutral color and the subtle texture.  At under $90, these are a great find and have already become a staple in my wardrobe.  Looking for a ballet flat in a more vibrant hue?  These also come in bright pink.  Shop them here!

Sam Edelman Felicia Ballet Flat, $89.95

New Year, New Bag!

Buying a new handbag is a great way to begin the new year with a fresh start!  So, we looked high and low to find some of the most versatile handbags out there!  In order to get the most wear out of your new bag, stick to neutral colors like black, brown, grey, and ivory.  Here are some of our favorite "everyday" bags that will keep you stylish all year long!    

ALEXANDER WANG Diego Bucket Bag, $825

ZARA Suede Messenger Bag, $49.90

KATE SPADE Portola Valley Blaine, $525

MICHAEL Michael Kors Jet Set Chain Shoulder Tote, $248

Investment Piece: A Really Great Belt

There are certain items that are essential when building a great wardrobe.  One of the most over-looked accessories that really polishes an outfit is the belt. Whether worn on the waist or the hip, it adds a special something extra.  It is definitely worth investing in a quality belt that will last forever! Here are some great options...

Waist Belts:

Chanel Patent Calfskin Belt with Chanel Signature Buckle, price not listed

Yves Saint Laurent Y-Logo Buckle Belt, $295

Prada Saffiano Leather Belt, $300

Gucci Skinny Leather Belt, $230

Gucci Signature Leather Belt, $345

Miu Miu Leather Belt, $295