Thrifty Thursday: Helmut Lang Turtleneck Sweater for a Steal

Lovers, to the left you will find le haute Turtleneck Sweater from Helmut Lang; on the right you will the classy Cowlneck Pullover Sweater from MaxStudio.

Though the Lang lovely features a collar that is slightly more slouchy than the MaxStudio marvel, and is constructed out of a wool/nylon/mohair blend as opposed to the soft wool/nylon/acrylic mix of the MaxStudio; for a mere $58.00, in comparison to the $345.00 needed to take the heather gray Helmut home, it is the ideal way to add a luscious touch of winter to your wardrobe – on a cozy budget!

Now the question remains…will you be thrifty, or suckered into putting on your spendthrift cap?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Ssense and MaxStudio for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the Tote-ally Tubular Giveaway for your chance to win a tote bag in the design of YOUR choice from Funtote.

Don't forget to enter the Frugal and Fabulous Giveaway for your chance to win a copy of Natalie P. McNeal’s The Frugalista Files.

Sunday Steals: J. Crew Merino Wool-Blend Cardigan on the Cheap

Kitty cats, to the left allow your eyes to take in the loveliness that is J. Crew's Merino Wool-Blend Cardigan; to the right take a gander at Forever 21’s Shawl Sweater Cardigan.

Though the fabulous Forever 21 piece lacks the exposed front zipper slantpockets of their haute couture cousin; for a mere $29.90, in comparison to the $135.00 price tag of the ambrosial J. Crew, it provides the same level of chic, cozy comfort at a price that is tailored for the frugalista’s budget!

What’s your stand…will you splurge, or save?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Net-A-Porter and Forever 21 for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the Think Pink Orient Watch Giveaway for your chance to win a BNQ1P001M watch from Orient Watch USA.

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Tightwad Tuesday: Trina Turk Marl Cardigan on the Cheap

Lovers, on the left we have Trina Turk’s mesmerizing Marl Cardigan in Ecru; to the right you will find Remain’s Naomi Waffle Knit Cardigan in Oatmeal Heather.

While the Remain piece is a slightly darker shade than the tantalizing Turk version; for just $39.90, as opposed to the $198.00 required to take Marl home, it is just as much of a fall staple as its higher priced counterpart, and leaves enough cash left over to allow the frugal fashionista to take home all three fabulous fall shades (army green, charcoal heather, and oatmeal heather)!

Are you having a tightwad moment darlings, or are you plagued with a craving to splurge?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Piperlime and Nordstrom for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter The Eye of the Panther Giveaway for your chance to win a Cartier-inspired Panther Ring from Shock Boutique.

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Sunday Steals: Joie Celia Poncho Sweater for Less

Dolls, in the left corner we have Joie’s très chic Celia Poncho Sweater; in the right corner we have ModCloth’s luscious Long Flight Sweater.

Though ModCloth’s magnificent creation is quite a bit thinner, and constructed out of a mix of polyester and cotton, as opposed to the cashmere of the Joie treasure; for just $42.00, in comparison to the $274.00 price tag of its couture cousin, it is every bit as capable of helping one to create that effortlessly chic style we all strive for – at a price that is oh-so alluring for the frugalista!

Your turn loves…will you be thrifty or suckered into putting on your spendthrift cap?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Shopbop and ModCloth for the pictures.


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Thrifty Thursday: Autumn Cashmere Ribbed Draped Cardigan for Less

My loves, to your left you will find Autumn Cashmere’s utterly ambrosial Ribbed Draped Cardigan; to the right, let your pretty peepers take in the sight that is Mossimo Black’s ravishing Rib Open Cardigan Sweater.

Though the Mossimo Black marvel lacks the cashmere construction of the Autumn Cashmere piece, instead finding itself crafted out of 100% acrylic; for just $27.99, in comparison to the $264.00 asking price of the original, it is an oh-so cozy way of adding a new knit to your wardrobe – at a price that won’t make you forsake your beloved daily trips to Starbucks!

Will Autumn Cashmere tempt you into being a big spender, or will Mossimo Black inspire you to save?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Neiman Marcus and Target for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings from Asquared Jewelry.

Don't forget to enter the Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway for your chance to win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Shopbop.

Thrifty Thursday: Anthropologie Ripped Page Wrap for Less

My loves, to your left please take a gander at Anthropologie’s refined Ripped Page Wrap; to the right, feast your eyes on Wet Seal’s ravishing Raw Edge Fleece Wrap.

Though the Wet Seal marvel is constructed out of a mix of cotton and polyester, as opposed to the ribbed jersey which makes up the ambrosial Anthropologie accessory; for just $24.50, in comparison to the 78.00 needed to take the Ripped Page Wrap home, it is every bit as capable of keeping you glamorous and warm come fall, at a price that leaves over enough extra cash to splurge on a new pair of boots!

Your turn loves…will you be thrifty or suckered into putting on your spendthrift cap?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Anthropologie and Wet Seal for the pictures.


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Shawl Talk

I’ll be honest; I’ve never been a fan of it. Small talk, that is. To some it’s a way to shoot the breeze; for me, it’s nothing more than moments wasted on nonsensical, inane musings brought about to mask the uncomfortable silences that so often pinpoint and plague our daily lives. But I’m not one to talk, I suppose; after all, I am a serial texter myself – exchanging brief banter with a handful of people at any given time. Still, it’s not the same. Those petite typewritten trades do one thing instantaneously, and that is get down to the nitty gritty – which, at the moment, is shawls. Thus, I’m forgoing the small talk, at least for a bit, and replacing it with a cozy dose of shawl talk!

Sheri Bodell “Black Widow Shawl” There is quite possibly nothing better than a venomous accessory; a fabulous fragment of frippery with the power to, in the words of Ricky Martin, “look like a flower and sting like a bee” – at least in terms of style. Sheri Bodell’s Black Widow Shawl is it. If ever you wanted to channel the look of an alluring bohemian hippie, you would need this garb and little to nothing else. Cascading layers of fringe hang flirtily from the rounded hem that creates a sophisticated curtain-like effect in which you are the soon to be revealed main attraction; while beads and paillettes adorning the shoulders and upper back make you dazzle, twinkle, and sparkle like a cosmopolitan caped crusader. Lock your doors boys; the black widow is on the prowl!

Free People “Fringe Shawl” No matter how hard you may try, it is nearly impossible to ignore the lure of Southwestern influences in style of dress. There’s a very beatnik, Jack Kerouac, On the Road quality to the look courtesy of natural tones that instantly make you think of being one with the wilderness. Free People’s Fringe Shawl is quite indicative of this. Loose, chunky hand-knit in a multitude of deep, striped tones, then trimmed in chocolate brown fringe create a cozy pattern and appearance which retains the ability to dress your look du jour up or down depending on how you wear it. Don it with dark wash skinnies for elegance, or slouchy khaki cords for a free-spirited ambiance; either way it creates an aesthetic that looks and feels like home.

Neiman Marcus “Cashmere Shawl” Too many associate the fall and winter months with dark, dreary colors that serve to be quite posh and cultivated, yet leave much to be desired in terms of color palettes. Hence the reason a snuggly garment in a daring hue, much like Neiman Marcus’ Cashmere Shawl is so necessary for your wardrobe. While the gathered detailing and pure cashmere construction make for a blissful, blanketed silhouette; the true piece de resistance lies in the ravishing candy apple red hue, and the versatility factor. Drape it over your shoulders and allow it to swish around your legs like an oversized cardigan, criss cross it over your body to create luscious layers, or wind it about your throat to weave a makeshift tube scarf that adds volumes to appearance. The only thing I don’t recommend doing? Leaving home without it!

American Apparel “The Shawl” Very few shawls have the ability to transform from day to night. The Shawl from American Apparel does. As opposed to going too big and billowy for an evening out with the girls – or a cute boy! – or embracing a slim cut that provides scant coverage from the brisk winds blowing you every which way, The Shawl falls right between the two in a magical middle ground to help you class up your style no matter what you happen to find yourself accoutered in. Glamourize the Cotton Spandex Jersey Double U-Neck Long Sleeve Mini Dress in Dark Orchid with The Shawl in Black Interlock; romanticize a pale pink v-neck with The Shawl in Asphalt Interlock; or add a sprinkling of animal magnetism to your ensemble courtesy of The Shawl in Natural/Cappuccino. There’s no question that in any color or combination it’s a pretty little piece eagerly awaiting the chance to contribute a pinch of pizzazz to your accessory drawer!

Sutton Studio “Cashmere Ruffle Shawl” Given the fact that, in my world, cardigans are not just a cozy covering crafted to keep one warm, they’re more of a way of life; I often find myself seeking out bits and pieces that are, essentially, an entirely different style of dress, but which possess the same type of aesthetic and presentation synonymous with that of a cardigan. So is the way I came across Sutton Studio’s Cashmere Ruffle Shawl. Nothing to me says fall in a more phenomenal fashion than a cuddly knit embellished with tiers of ruffles that make it a cinch to create an urbane, uptown silhouette that will turn heads the moment you toss it on. Allow it to hang open for a nonchalant, haphazard yet haute appearance; or swing one end over your shoulder for a touch of elegance. No matter how it’s styled you’re sure to stun.

Ready for a bit of shawl talk, kittens?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Shopbop, Free People, Nordstrom, American Apparel, and Bloomingdales for the pictures.

Hoods Up!

When I first wrote about hood scarves here, I had yet to experience the type of weather which actually called for such heavy-duty accoutrement; now I have – and darlings, I truly see the error of my ways by not having splurged on one sooner. With blustery winds reaching an amazing 40 MPH just last week, perhaps I could have avoided two horrifyingly bad, windswept hair days if only armed with a chunky knit retaining the ability to make me look refined as opposed to rumpled despite the outrageous gusts blowing me every which way. But alas, I was unprepared, and had to suffer the humiliation of a yield-sign shaped ‘do – not a good look on anyone. I truly cannot allow any of you to succumb to the same sort of mane mishaps that nearly had me in tears; thus…hoods up!

Filippa K “Hood Scarf” Please bear with me as I make un petit confession, as I know it sounds downright bizarre, but I’ve always had an obsession with accessories which provide a very cocoon-like warmth to them – bits and pieces that wrap you up in coziness in the very same manner as a cute boy would. There’s something quite comforting about styles like this which I have never been able to resist; case in point Filippa K’s Hood Scarf. At first glance it looks like your typical tube scarf – bunchy about the neck and loaded with cushiness; but pull it up around your head like a hood, and it creates a tunnel-like silhouette that keeps you snuggly and looking sassy!

American Apparel “Unisex Hooded Scarf” I’ve tried countless times to be less matchy-matchy, but when it comes to accessories – particularly knit outerwear – I find myself constantly searching for pieces in colors that are subdued at times, and loud at others that will work with practically anything in my closet. This can get quite expensive; but with American Apparel’s Unisex Hooded Scarf, it doesn’t have to. At $22.00 apiece, the Unisex Hooded Scarf is one of the most affordable accessories of this kind on the market; not to mention it’s available in a wide array of colors with the ability to take your wardrobe to new heights. Between you and me…I may just have to buy it in every shade possible!

Rogan “Maharatta Hooded Scarf” Do you remember as a child when you would tie an old towel around your throat in the form of a cape and run around the house pretending you were Batman or Robin, or some other superhero? At moments I find myself still plagued with the desire to indulge in such innocent, childlike behavior; age, of course, prohibits one from doing so – which is why I absolutely adore Rogan’s Maharatta Hooded Scarf. The knit can be tied up around your neck like a bulky tube scarf, or allow the ends to drape and flutter haphazardly about your form like a hooded cape. The black and charcoal hues blend together to create a sophisticated, smoky look, so don’t feel intimidated to don the mesmerizing Maharatta wherever you please – including Black Tie affairs; you’re sure to create a mysterious stir!

Merona “Jersey Hoodie Muffler” My beloved Tia from Style, via Tia exposed me to Target’s Merona Jersey Hoodie Muffler just last week, and I’ve been unable to get the clever, cold weather creation off of my mind ever since. Hood? Check! Scarf? Check! But no, the Jersey Hoodie Muffler, while having the ambrosial appeal of an affordable price tag sports something fully unique that will most certainly come in handy for all of us fashionistas who hold dear to the mantra “shop ‘til you drop.” What is it, you ask? Pockets! Don’t get me started about my passion for pockets – I have written odes to them in the past, but I won’t bore you with them here. All one truly needs to know is that I can’t resist a good pocket, and the Jersey Hoodie Muffler possesses two – one flanking each end of the scarf. Each felt pocket is shaped like a pint-sized envelope and boasts a snazzy snap to keep your teeny tiny belongings safe. I have a feeling my spare change will soon find itself residing in these chic compartments.

Lindsey Thornburg “Black Druid Hood” There’s something slightly sinister and domineering about Lindsey Thornburg’s Black Druid Hood; but it is these things that make it so appealing and charming. The oversized hood creates a very enigmatic, almost cryptic contour; while the long, angled scarf ends add character by providing a bit of extra dimension to the piece. These are not the things that separate the Black Druid Hood from other similar styles, however; non, that honor is bestowed upon the glittering gold chain detail which rests comfortably on the upper back – a Thornburg signature that will draw envious stares when worn.

Ready to put your hood up?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Ssense, American Apparel, Target, and Oak for the pictures.

Double-Duty Designs

Darlings I don’t care how many proclamations I hear about the economy turning around. When you’re living on a shoestring budget, it’s impossible to be carefree about shelling out loads of cash for a singular item that will mottle your wardrobe twice a month – if you’re lucky. I want a garment that can work overtime; that can perform multiple tasks despite the fact that it was obtained for a solitary amount. Hence the reason I am contemplating ransacking my very own closet, casting aside those pesky items that possess all of zero versatility, and replacing them with designs that don’t complain about performing double-duties!

Free People “Riding Hood Convertible Tee” I have absolutely no qualms about admitting my admiration for Free People and their countless convertible creations; case in point the Riding Hood Convertible Tee. Admit it, I’m sure, like me, you’ve experienced those times where you’re shivering in your tank and realize that you’ve left the house sans sweater. Magically, these moments are plentiful in Southern California where days are sweltering and evenings are chilly and brisk. Thus, the Riding Hood Convertible Tee is sure to be a blessing in disguise. A snap detail in the center makes it possible for you to wear the top in four different ways – as a racer back tank with hood, as a dolman, as a batwing tee, or as a more fitted piece for those candlelit dinners with your cute boy. It’s as if a fairy godmother is by your side 24/7 waving her wand about and ensuring that you’re properly dressed and look your best no matter the situation!

7 For All Mankind “Convertible Skinny Jeans” I am the queen of choosing the worst possible moments to try on clothes. When I want to slip on slouchy boots I’m wearing ballerinas without socks. When I think about tossing on an off the shoulder top or halter, I’m wearing the wrong type of undergarments. It’s always a Catch-22; but it truly doesn’t have to be. 7 For All Mankind’s Convertible Skinny Jeans are the ideal legwear for your shopping excursions – or your night’s of dancing out on the town. They may look like your typical pair of dark wash skinny jeans, but the 17-inch zippered gusset adorning the hem makes them anything but. Unzip to convert these denim delights to a bootcut, or stick with the skinny silhouette by zipping them snugly around your ankle. Now you can see how those Louboutin’s look with skinnies or bootcuts before taking them home!

Brixton “Sky Hooded Wrap Scarf” Once upon a time I thought it possible to keep an ordinary scarf swathed about your head hood-like simply by wrapping it into place. An encounter with a cherry red Convertible and high winds upon the freeway resulting in two hours of combing out knots lacing my hair quickly proved me wrong. If you truly want a scarf that doubles as a hat of sorts, it is best to splurge on something that actually states it is capable of such a task, much like the Sky Hooded Wrap Scarf. I will admit it was the lure of the red wine-imbued burgundy shade that led me into a love affair with Brixton’s Sky Hooded Wrap Scarf; but the realization that it works as two separate accessories merely by putting a few buttons into place was truly the icing on the cake. For those days when all you need is a scarf to keep you cozy, swaddle it about your throat; but when the weather turns downright blistery, bind yourself from the cold by attaching the matching hood to ensure that you stay warm without forsaking your adorable factor.

Elizabeth and James “Trench Coat Dress” How one can so much as contemplate attempting to make it through the fall and winter seasons sans trench coat is beyond me; yet even I see the predicament that such a purchase puts one in. Trenches are quite the investment; and while capable of creating a sublime silhouette, it’s difficult to imagine spending such an exorbitant amount of money on an item that will be locked away after a couple of seasons. Therefore Elizabeth and James’ Trench Coat Dress is an absolute must. Fall and winter can be spent carousing inside the warmth of the coat; when spring and summer comes around, wear it as a sleeveless belted dress; and for those more casual evenings, don it as a cropped jacket with skinny jeans and sky-high heels. It’s a can’t-live-without three-in-one for the girl on the go seeking a little luxury in her life!

Ecote “Convertible Harem Pant” I find spending money on new trends to be extremely frightening. On one hand you face the possibility of heavenly results; on the other you come head to head with a potentially disastrous outcome that could end with a depressing purchase dangling within your closet. Thus, when the opportunity to try two trends in one presents itself, quite simply, I leap at it. Illustrative example…Ecote’s Convertible Harem Pant. The tapered leg and high-waist make them an easy breezy form of legwear that is breathable and beatific; or pull them all the way up tube-top style to create a seductive jumper with a cropped silhouette. Two completely different trends and ensembles in one…I’d call that money well spent.




Ready to lay claim on a few double-duty designs of your own, darlings?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Free People, Shopbop, Karma Loop, Net-A-Porter, and Urban Outfitters for the pictures.

Valley of the Scarves

Given my less than statuesque height, you would think that I would seek out pieces crafted only with lengthening my frame in mind as opposed to overwhelming it; and I do. It is only when I dip into the accessory pool that I truly look for items that will make a statement, and provide some semblance of volume and ferocity to my typically neutral canvas – a knit that goes on for miles when hanging limply over my shoulders, or swells with sophistication when coiled tightly about my throat. Something that fills me with the desire to cast my tube scarves aside – if only temporarily – and traverse…the Valley of the Scarves.

Alexis “Billy Extra Long Solid Knit Scarf” Darlings it wasn’t too long ago that I was introduced to the decadent designs of Alexis, and I have been smitten ever since. The dainty draping, the Southwestern prints, the champagne hues – it’s enough to make a girl want to overhaul her entire wardrobe and stock it only with the finest from Alexis. But I digress, I won’t be doing such a thing – or rather, my bank account won’t allow me to – but it will allow me to make goo-goo eyes at the dark as night, floor-sweeping Billy Extra Long Solid Knit Scarf in Black. Who needs a shimmering bauble dangling from their neck if they can sling a midnight colored knit such as this around their shoulders? As with all of Alexis’ neck accoutrements, Billy is angled at both ends for a wing-like silhouette that will keep you soaring until the wee hours of the morning!

BDG “Cable Knit Scarf” Nothing says cozy like cable knit and a warm mug of hot chocolate; BDG’s Cable Knit Scarf covers half the battle. At over five-feet long, the plush, vibrant, thick-knit has the ability to keep you warm no matter what the weather by ensuring you look effortless, ravishing, and chic every time you toss it on; while the fringed ends contribute a flirty, flapper-inspired flair to your entire look. Just remember dolls, now that you have the cable knit, it’s up to you to find a cute boy to buy you some hot chocolate – don’t forget the mini marshmallows!

Marc by Marc Jacobs “Valley Sweater Scarf” There’s something truly quite charming about being swallowed by an accessory. An Olsen-like je ne sais quoi that is part glamorous part mysterious and all-around enchanting. And what better piece of fashion to be swallowed by than Marc by Marc Jacobs’ Valley Scarf? My beloved Marc always knows how to make a girl’s heart pitter patter, and he has not failed me with the veritable inky shades marled within the body of the versatile Valley. Turquoises tango with ocean blue hues that seemingly twinkle and sparkle in the sunlight courtesy of metallic thread embellishments interwoven here and there; while the subtle color changes produce a hypnotic ambiance with the power to lull even the most fashion-resistant person into a trance-like state. How can one really resist stylish magic as powerful as that?

Alloy “Paige Knit Scarf” I have spent years trying to crochet scarves all to disastrous results; perhaps that’s why I adore Alloy’s Paige Knit Scarf so much. The stitch is sophisticated enough to make you look polished, yet simplistic enough to make it look as if you made it using your own two hands – as opposed to your AmEx, mind you. While the acrylic knit – ideal for keeping you warm yet comfortable enough to toss on when you simply want to add an accessory to a plain white tee – and the full, six-inch fringe are enticing features; it’s the range of colors that Paige is available in which truly thrill me. Flirty fuchsias, radiant reds, tantalizing taupes – each shade works to spruce up even the blandest of ensembles and keep you looking your best come cooler days!

Nordstrom “Braided Knit Scarf” Blame Alexander Wang and his bevy of long-legged beauties parading down the catwalk for my current obsession with all things braided. While Wang’s braids were slung haphazardly over the shoulders of models in the form of hairstyles, however, I plan on donning mine about my throat in the form of Nordstrom’s Braided Knit Scarf. The five-foot long tightly woven knit slightly resembles the type of blanket we seek out to take the chill off during snowstorms that blow into town just as quickly as they blow out; therefore it is destined to be the perfect way to outfit yourself on blustery days. And just think of how posh you’ll look donning the calming camel color (my personal favorite of the quartet) over an entirely ebony ensemble. Darlings, the mere notion of such style gives me goosebumps!

Care to join me on my valley voyage, kittens?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Zeny’s Boutique, Urban Outfitters, Shopbop, Alloy, and Nordstrom for the pictures.


Check out Cafe Fashionista's Guest Post over at Be In Style to find out the Top 5 Must-Have Boots for Winter 2009!


Don't forget to enter The Inconvenienced Fashionista Giveaway for your chance to win a trendy, eco-friendly, reusable tote bag from The Inconvenient Bag.

Cold Shoulder

Darlings I have just come to an extremely important realization…I have nothing to wear. Please forget what you’ve read about my amassment of clothes, and footwear. The truth of the matter is that each and every one of those pieces caters to one season and one season only. The sweaters are only good for when the weather turns chilly; while the t-shirts are of absolutely no use unless it’s burning up. Unfortunately, I am currently straddling a middle ground. Lest I’m interested in embracing sweaty chic, a sweater is completely out of the question; and there’s absolutely nothing seductive about shivering like a newborn fawn, so a tee stands no chance of so much as being considered. I suppose what I truly need is a covering that will keep me warm without making me feel as if I’m suffocating – something stylish and flirty with the ability to adapt to its surroundings in the same fashion as a chameleon. Oui, the accoutrement that I am desperate for at the moment is a shoulder warmer; but not any shoulder warmer will do.

Free People’s Vintage Crochet Shoulder Warmer, aside from having the texture and appearance of a well-loved knit crafted by the hands of a caring grandmother, is an accessory that no girl should have to be without – whether she lives in the sweltering Sahara of Southern California, or the chilly Connecticut climate.

The one-size fits all (don’t you just love when sizing isn’t an issue?) hand-crocheted cozy is a where-with-anything essential that one should never leave home without. The drawstring closure about the neck possesses a very elementary air of sophistication which also serves to add simple adaptability to the piece in the sense that it can be worn poncho-like or cinched into either an eternity or tube scarf – whichever style suits the weather at hand – while the striking availability of colors (watermelon, snow, or ash) make it a cinch for any experienced shopper to find the hue that works for you.

Which color shoulder warmer are you coveting, kittens?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Free People for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter The Inconvenienced Fashionista Giveaway for your chance to win a trendy, eco-friendly, reusable tote bag from The Inconvenient Bag.

Hoodwinked

The other girls on the playground longed to be princesses – fair maidens with hair cascading down their back and woven into a golden plait in which a handsome prince could climb in order to save the day; ball-attending beauties with ruched satin gloves pulled up to their petite elbows; crown-wearing damsels with a taste for glass slippers or hunger for poisoned apples, both of which required the assistance of an adorable royal to save them from their fate. A part of me longed for the same type of fairytale; yet the other craved a more terrifying ending – one with big bad wolves flashing razor-sharp incisors, long walks through frightening forests, and, more than anything else, a teensy hood cloaking my chestnut colored hair. In the end, the latter won out.

Don’t get me wrong darlings, the life of a princess sounds downright divine, and I could never resist the sparkling diamond-encrusted crowns; however, Little Red Riding Hood managed to speak to me on so many levels as a child. And now, as a college student, I find myself brought back to the whimsy of the wondrous story courtesy of Rag & Bone’s Twisted Merino Hood Loop.

The Twisted Merino Hood Loop is practically two accessories in one. The ivory waffle-knit covering with ribbed trim can be worn in one of two ways: as a face-framing hood that virtually drapes in the most romantic of ways in soft, flowy waves; or, on warmer days, as a bulky infinity scarf which can be secured with a fossil-imprinted brass button to keep it from flapping or being tussled by cool breezes.

Based on the sheer fact that I have countless infinity scarves lurking in my closet and haphazardly peeking out of multiple bureau drawers, I can’t help but desire to wear it solely as a hood; worn in such a fashion its impossible not to make a fierce statement. Just watch out for the Big Bad Wolf, kittens!

Are you ready to be hoodwinked?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Saks Fifth Avenue for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the Velvet Rope Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Members Only Stretch Velvet Leggings from Chickdowntown.

Totally Tubular

Accessories are my BFF. They are so much easier to locate at a moment’s notice than a living, breathing gal pal when an urge to shop strikes; plus, they never try to steal the cute boy who happens to catch your eye while waiting in line for your Grande Light White Chocolate Mocha Frappuccino at Starbucks – although they may attempt to swipe the spotlight with their shimmer and shine, or dazzle him with their grandiose glamour. Admit it, there’s no finer friend than a cocktail ring who can swathe you in radiance; no more valuable companion than a statement necklace with the ability to make you sparkle; no classier cohort than a flamboyant charm bracelet tinkling in glee with your every move. But don’t worry kitty cats, your supplementary sidekick need not be of the twinkling variety. Hence the reason why my fall accessory du jour is not the cord bracelet or the pendant necklace; nor a floral-shaped bauble or a Swarovski-encrusted bit dangling from my ear. Rather, it is…le tube scarf.

Twinkle “Just In Case Scarf” Darlings, just in case you thought it possible to survive without a tube scarf, Twinkle is here to prove you completely wrong via their Just In Case Scarf, a piece that your accessory drawer is completely naked without. No longer do you have to struggle with tying your scarf in an acceptable fashion, or worry about it slipping from your shoulders when skedaddling for the subway, the Just In Case Scarf stays in place from the moment you put it on until you deem it appropriate to take it off, while making you look and feel like a seductive little ski bunny. Hippity hop, kittens!

DKNY “Lambswool/Cashmere Infinity Scarf” Haven’t you always wanted to be her? Oh, good grief, I can’t believe you’ve no idea who I’m talking about…the lady in red, of course! I’ve always craved such a caption to accompany my entrance into a room, but I’ve never felt flippant enough to flounce into a crowded space covered from head to toe in crimson – it simply seems too outwardly cheeky a thing for me to do; yet the Lambswool/Cashmere Infinity Scarf in the flirtatious Flame pigment is giving me courage – if only subtly. Wrap it around your throat for a pop of color that will make heads turn and bring an alluring blush to your cheeks. Who knows lovelies, someone may even refer to you as the lady in red.

Nordstrom “Airy Shadow Stripe Cashmere Wrap” There’s something to be said for an accessory that has the power to hug and keep you warm from top to bottom in the same fashion that a cute boy can; hence the reason why I’m so smitten with Nordstrom’s Airy Shadow Stripe Cashmere Wrap. The crafting is just as soft, cozy, and familiar as a much-loved blanket; while the length gives you the ability to tie it tube-like around your neck or allow it to hang haphazardly over your shoulders for a more casual effect. But alas, not all decisions are as simple as styling, cupcakes; sometimes the real issue in question is deciding upon a singular color that will keep your closet chipper from season to season. I’m convinced that Ivy League would so perfectly complement my complexion and eyes; Turkish Blue would look marvelous with denim; and we can’t forget how intriguing Ivory would look frosting any and all of your wardrobe staples. I understand that it’s most likely out of the question, but can’t I just have them all?

Bop Basics “Thick Knit Eternity Scarf” Love at first sight doesn’t strike often kittens, but when it does, you must act quickly; thus the reason why I scooped up the Thick Knit Eternity Scarf within moments of laying eyes upon it. There’s something about cable knit anything that makes me downright punch-drunk – especially in a hue so reminiscent of steaming cocoa – so I couldn’t help but allow myself un petit splurge. But it was worth it. Can you imagine how divine such a piece will look slung around a jewel-toned sweater come winter or topping a cropped blazer for a little get-together with the girls? I have a feeling that I’ll be adoring this little knit for all of eternity!

Echo “Double Infinity Scarf” Forget what you’ve heard (if you’ve heard anything, that is), texture and volume are not terms applicable only to hair. No, when it comes to clothing – in this case, accessories – they are a double whammy of words that describe the same type of decadence synonymous with the fluffy whipped topping that veils sugary cupcakes. Case in point, Echo’s Double Infinity Scarf. As if the majestic Regal Purple color weren’t enough to make you giddy, the way in which the irresistibly soft material swoops and loops around your neck like a glamorous merry-go-round most certainly will.

Ready to get tubular, mes chéris?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Shopbop, Bloomingdale’s, and Nordstrom for the pictures.

Cozy Knits and Log Cabins

I'm kind of in love with Seventeen Magazine's February 2009 "Cabin Fever" fashion spread. Toss in some snow, a furry kitty cat or two, a fireplace, and some hot chocolate topped with mini marshmallows and whipped cream, and it's my own personal winter dream come true.









Fashionably yours!