Chic of the Week

Who: Our new First Lady, Michelle Obama.

What: A one-shouldered Jason Wu gown and jewelry by Loree Rodkin.

When: Tuesday, January 20, 2009.

Where: At the Neighborhood Ball: An Inaugural Celebration in Washington DC.

Why: This frothy white gown by young designer Jason Wu looks so fresh and modern on Mrs. Obama. So looks simultaneously ethereal and strong, regal and soft. I think it was the perfect choice for her (and a definite step up from the Isabel Toledo number from earlier that day - I love Isabel's designs, but this ensemble just didn't do it for me!).





Photo courtesy of Luxist.

Current Obsessions

Looking down at my feet the other day while at work, I realized that I have developed an unhealthy dependency on a pair of shoes. More often than not, you will find me wearing my $40 Sigerson Morrison for Target studded skimmers. I get more compliments on these little flats than some footwear that cost more than 10 times the price I paid for these Target numbers. They are just the perfect throw on show for when I get to work, after I finish pulling off various ski socks and argyles and Hunter boots, my winter below-the-knee standard.

Though I purchased these shoes in the fall - they have since sold out - the torch I've been carrying for them since is still going strong. They got me thinking, though, about what other items in my wardrobe are on heavy rotation this winter.

Here is my list of what I can't live without right now and how to get the look.

The aforementioned object of my obsession and a couple of look-a-likes: one with an all over studded look for that something extra and an all black pair that have that same pointed shape as the Target version.

Sigerson Morrison for Target black studded flat, no longer available.

From top: Dani Black Mira Flats, now $157 (available at Dani Black); American Eagle Anstin Point Flat, $22.99 (available at Payless).

This past Christmas, I was kindly given this Mulberry Bayswater - a bag I have been coveting for years. This sumptuous, classic leather carryall is a bit out of my price range, so it was very joyously received when I pulled away the ribbons and shiny paper to reveal it. It makes a pair of jeans look so much more polished and far chicer and has also served as a sophisticated and functional work bag. I think this Hayden-Harnett for Target version looks like the Bayswater's edgier cousin and that this MICHAEL Michael Kors version shares the same softness and richness of the splurge style.

Clockwise from top left: Mulberry Bayswater Bag, approx. $819 (available at Mulberry); Hayden-Harnett for Target Hobo Bag, $39.99 (available at Target); MICHAEL Michael Kors Astor Large Slouch Bag, $298 (available at Nordstrom).

I'm a big convert to buying at auction and have found some fantastic items for my apartment, jewelry, clothing and accessories this way. There are always unique finds and prices way below retail. This past December, I picked up this Hermes Collier de Chien belt, which like the Bayswater, has been on my list for a long, long time. It's such a cool statement piece and far easier to wear than you might think. I love it over a white oxford and a high-waisted skirt. These like-minded looks from Linea Pelle achieve that same luxe edginess (studs and straps juxtaposed with supple leather and gleaming hardware) in a multitude of warm, rustic shades. And though I got an amazing deal on the Hermes version, these options are even more budget friendly - why not buy all three?

Hermes Collier de Chien belt, purchased through Leslie Hindman Auctioneers Vintage Couture and Accessories auction in December.

From top: Women's Double Buckle Waist Belt with Pyramid Studs, now $122.50; Women's Pyramid Studded Waist Belt, now $87.50; Women's Waist Belt with Leather Covered Pyramid Studs, now $150 (all available at Linea Pelle).

More wardrobe staples to come!

Chic of the Week

Who: January Jones, actress.

What: A light blue satin Versace from the label's Spring 2009 Collection.

When: Sunday, January 11, 2009.

Where: At the 66th Annual Golden Globe Awards in Beverly Hills.

Why: I think it's fitting that we honor January during the month that bears her same name. Especially when she shows up on the red carpet rocking this Versace gown. She looks exquisite in these sharp pleats juxtaposed with the soft, pale shade of blue. The Mad Men actress looks equal parts siren and angel, thanks also to her Veronica Lake hair and pitch perfect makeup. Well played, Miss Jones.







Photo courtesy of Fabsugar.

Featured Frock

Floral-print dress, $150 (available at Banana Republic).

I am really drawn to this patterned dress from Banana Republic. Its muted somber shades seem perfect for the grim winter weather outside. I love the idea of piling up the layers on top of it while the weather is still cold.

The neutral shades of the dress just cry out for color - I think a brightly colored long cardigan belted up at the waist would be just right. Throw on a dark pair of tights in a black or charcoal gray and then add a pair of mushroom colored gladiator heels that coordinate just-so with the dress. And voila! You've got yourself a fresh look that looks ahead to spring but is just right for winter.

Clockwise from top left: Ribbed Sleeves Sweater Cardigan, $15.80 (available at Forever 21); Metallic-Foil Skinny Belt, $38 (available at J. Crew); Jermain Gladiator Platform, $27.99 (available at Payless); Sueded Opaque CT Tight, $12.50 (available at Hue).

How would you customize this floral frock?

Chic of the Week

Who: Penelope Cruz, actress.

What: A one-shouldered Marchesa dress with nude Christian Louboutin platforms.

When: Monday, January 5, 2009.

Where: At the New York Film Critics Circle Awards in, well, New York.

Why: Ms. Cruz always looks fantastic and works the bombshell look perfectly. She never looks over the top or out of control, but instead looks elegant and sophisticated. She channels Sophia Loren is such a modern way.









Photo courtesy of GossipGirls.com.

Chic of Last Week

Who: Chloe Sevigny, actress and designer.

What: Head to toe Louis Vuitton from the Spring 2009 Collection.

When: Wednesday, December 31, 2008.

Where: At the Hotel Gansevoort's New Year's Eve bash in South Beach.

Why: Only Chloe can make head to toe runway look fresh and cool and thrown together. I love the casual wavy hair and how easy and relaxed she makes this ensemble look. On anyone else it would look overwrought and overthought. And the color combination is completely incredible. A very chic way to ring in the New Year, indeed!

The same look for the Louis Vuitton Spring 2009 Runway.

Photos courtesy of Fashion Week Daily and Style.com.

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