Glow Stick

Neon colors popped up all over the spring runways from slouchy blazers at Alexander Wang to flouncy dresses at Dior and bold silks at ADAM. Betsey Johnson mixed bright florals with even brighter solids while Christopher Kane sliced vivid organza into crisp 3D petal dresses.

Betsey Johnson and Christian Dior neon runway looks.

Bright pink silk at the ADAM show.

Looks from the S/S 2009 Christopher Kane and Alexander Wang collections.

Translating these looks from runway into reality, I was thinking about how best I like my neon. I love bright prints and neons done slightly 80s - electric blue heels, plastic baubles and campfire-inspired bracelets, short shorts and punky belts. I also love shocking hues rendered in modern, sporty silhouettes, like an updated lightweight parka and pants that tow the line between couchbound sweats and runway harems. Or you can go electric ladyland in colorful, feminine dresses and bouncy tiered skirts with a classic flat or structured bag updated in vibrantly colored rubber or shrunken in size and shaken up in shade.

Clockwise from left: Dayton Anorak, $79.50 (available at dELiA's); Turkish Ikat Scarf, $38 (available at Echo); Mary Meyer Sahara Pants, $101 (available at Revolve Clothing); Jelly Reva Flat, $95 (available at Tory Burch); Kate Spade Terrytown - Betty Handheld Mini Satchel, $295 (available at Nordstrom).

Turquoise and Yellow Three Row Pyramid Belt, $24 (available at Hot Topic).

From left: Braided Satin Cord Bracelet w/ Single Charm, $24 (available at Ettika); Mcthune Pump, $110 (available at Aldo); Rich & Skinny Perky Shorts, each $115 (available at Kitson); Unisex Flex Terry Headband, $6 (available at American Apparel).

Clockwise from top left: Necklace, $29.90 (visit H&M for stores); BR Monogram Backless Dress, $225 (available at Banana Republic); Bright Wool Cheetah Square Scarf, $58 (available at Echo); Rory Beca Layered Skirt, $299 (available at Shopbop).

Forget rose-colored glasses, I'm looking at the world through fluorescent shades.

Retail Therapy

A new study has been released claiming that women lose control over their spending habits and shop more and spend more while experiencing PMS - when not popping Pamprin, howling at the moon or reading Cathy comics, of course.

Conducted by Hertfordshire University in England, the study surveyed nearly 450 woman from ages 18 to 50 to test the theory that women use shopping as self-medication in the ten days leading up to their periods.

Read more here and here.


Crying Girl (detail), 1963 by Roy Lichtenstein. Photo courtesy of DenverArts.org.

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

From left: YSL Cage Bootie, $1,290 (available at Bergdorf Goodman); Bernardo Shoes Magic Gladiator Sandal, $140 (available at Diani); Cage Sandal, $1,490 (available at YSL).

When these YSL caged heels first appeared, I just wasn't sure. Kind of weird. Too photographed. Just sort of turned me off. But sometimes you love the things most that at first repelled you.

Sure enough, I now have an unhealthy obsession with all things caged, all things spring YSL. I want the necklace, the belt, the cuff and obviously the shoes. The shoes, the shoes, the shoes. They are so architectural and serious and sexy and powerful. And also so expensive. $800, you ask? Cold. $900? Warmer. $1,000? Warmer. $1,100? Even warmer. More than $1,200? Ding, ding, ding. $1,290 for the bootie or for two hundred bucks more you can opt for the sandal.

Thankfully, I stumbled across these lookalikes by Bernarndo Shoes. Yes, they lack the magnificent caged heel. But they make up for it in mirror-image metallic leather strappiness, almost identical to the YSL bootie at left. Magic Gladiator, indeed. And snagging these lovely sandals for only $140? Why, you'll feel like the cat that ate the canary.

Birdcage image courtesy of TheInteriorGallery.com.

Chic of the Week

Who: Actress Thandie Newton.

What: A sexy cutout LBD by Preen.

When: Tuesday, March 24, 2009.

Where: At the Moet et Chandon A Tribute to Cinema Party in London.

Why: It's no secret that Thandie is a favorite of FB&F. She is the reigning queen of our Chic of the Week pages and it should be quite obvious why. Styled a different way and on a less sophisticated lady, this dress could look a little scandalous. On Thandie, with subdued makeup, pulled back hair, a black clutch and shoes the look is so modern and elegant. Definitely deserving of a toast.









Photo courtesy of InStyle.

My Serpentine

A serpentine look from Prada's Spring 2009 runway.

From dresses to the smallest of accessories, snakeskin slithered its way all over the S/S 2009 runways. Miuccia Prada's collection seemed almost like an ode to the hissing reptile, with skirts blouses, bags and shoes printed in python or sewed in snake. And it all somehow looked less Vegas and more elegant Italian dama.

Just like all major designer trends, this too has made its way from four and five digit price tags to numbers that the rest of us can swallow a little better.

Some labels have interpreted the look into vibrant shoes or subtle belts with unique detailing, others just by using a the print to accent a flat or a clutch. Others still taking a colorful python print to make an otherwise sweet and simple dress into something wild.

Here are some of my favorite riffs on this trend from bangles to peeptoes, some convincing facsimiles and some taken right off the serpent's back.

Clockwise from top left: Franchi Women's Snake Minaudiere, $245 (available at Bloomingdale's); Boutique 9 Voula Platform Stiletto Sandals, $160 (available at Lord & Taylor); Emily Noelle Twisted Snakeskin Belt, $150 (available at Intermix); Snake Wrap Belt, now $43.50 (available at Calvin Klein).

Clockwise from left: Ted Rossi Python Bangles, $95-125 (available at Vivre); Python Print Stretch Georgette Dress, $345 (available at DKNY); Poelite Flat, $149.95 (available at Steve Madden).

Clockwise from left: Jane Snakeskin ballet flats, $395 (available at J. Crew); Abas Emma Snake Valet Clutch, $198 (available at Piperlime); BCBGirls Ariel 2 Peeptoe, now $88.16 (available at Zappos).

That Something Extra

Clockwise from top left: Nanette Lepore Discover Me Top, now $167.90 (available at Saks); Brulee Pump, $190 (available at oh DEER!); Stitched Clutch, $375 (available at Tory Burch); Sequin Rose Head Wrap, $140 (available at Stacey Lapidus); Frills Clutch, $139 (available at Bebe).

To go from ordinary to extraordinary, it's really all in the details. It's the little things in life that make something memorable - a certain smell or special hint of flavor. When it comes to clothing and accessories, thoughtful touches are what makes the garment or the shoe or bag amazing.

A black clutch becomes covetable when covered in ruffles, just as a plain black pump can go from drab to divine with the addition of painted metallic details. A silk tank is easily taken to a whole new level through colorful beaded embellishments, while a simple brown clutch benefits from vibrant woven detailing.

Moving northwards, you can choose to accessorize your hair as a finishing touch to your look - that something extra. Take it a step further by selecting a floral beaded (and very DVF-esque) head wrap in place of a traditional headband.

For a more DIY approach, cluster brooches on your collar or use them to personalize an inexpensive clutch. Add interest to a simple shift by braiding ribbon around your waist to wear as a belt (said ribbon can also become a headband in a pinch). On that same note, you can further adorn your hair by adding craft store flowers to a basic headband. This is accomplished by weaving the stems around the band or using a hot glue gun. For the more artistically inclined, grab a few paint pens or fabric crayons and put your artistic touch onto a plain canvas tote or even a pair of Keds.

Whether you prefer ready-made to handmade, there are many ways to lend your look that je ne sais quoi.

Crafting materials courtesy of Knitting-Warehouse (tote), Blick (paint pens), Crafta (flowers) and M&J Trimming (ribbon).

"Looks like a pump, feels like a sneaker..."

Clockwise from top left: BCBGirls Elton Booties, now $52.90 (available at Nordstrom); Sneaker Pump, $180 (available at DKNY); Sergio Rossi x Puma Clyde Heel, $575 (visit Sergio Rossi for more information); Ash Spot Sneaker Bootie, $129.95 (available at Nordstrom).

Back in Middle School, one of the chicest girls in my class showed up in math class one day wearing the most amazing shoes. They were black DKNY heeled sneakers. Canvas with a rubber sole. They were just so...revolutionary. So innovative. So cool. So obviously I had to run immediately to Bloomingdale's and pick up my own pair - in a soft shade of linen, rather than black.

I don't remember if I ever rummaged up the courage to wear them more than once or twice, but to me they were so stylish and grown-up. Everything I wanted to convey to the world around me.

Flash forward to right about now and the sneaker heel is back. I must say that sixth-grade me is more than a little excited. With DKNY again leading the high heeled sneaker procession, it's like deja vu. Goes to show once again how cyclical fashion truly is.

My 1990s pair were much more like this Ash style, sort of a heeled Chuck Taylor, all laces, rubber and muted canvas than these futuristic, colorful 2009 DKNY's. Even more out there, but somehow still wearable, is this BCBGirls version, combining sneaker styling, patent leather and a wedge heel. Finally, there is this luxe model by Sergio Rossi for Puma. Reworking the iconic child of the 1970s, the Puma Clyde sneaker, Rossi has made the gym shoe into a sky-high satin pump - and to great effect.

Now I wonder how the powers that be are going to bring back Umbro shorts? Chloe Sevigny x Umbro? Exclusive to Opening Ceremony, of course. Or was that Colette?

Flower Child

Clockwise from top left: Flower Babylon Tights, approx $14.60 (available at LoveColour LoveTights); Erin Wasson x RVCA Sideshow Dress, $155 (available at Barney's); Nike Liberty Blazer, $100 (available at Opening Ceremony); Exploded Floral Printed Skirt, $58 (available at Urban Outfitters).

Spring flowers, cliche I know. But this season's florals are a little different, a little bolder. These revamped models give you the choice of two options: go big or go ho-...very little.

For those who like their patterns large and in charge, try these moody tights that feature large blooming flowers cascading down the leg or slip on a miniskirt covered in bursting, dreamlike blue flowers from Urban Outfitters. Take the scale down a notch and you will find this 90s-inspired allover flower dress from model/muse Erin Wasson's collection for RVCA. Take the look to its wee-est limits with a traditional Liberty print, resurrected and upped in chic factor on this limited edition Nike.

Whether you prefer in your face or like things a little more microscopic, this bud's for you.

Another Tory Burch Private Sale

Visit the Tory Burch site now to find tunics, shift dresses, swimsuits, shoes, and more for 65% off!

Hippie Luxe

Spring 2009 runway looks from Oscar de la Renta and Emanuel Ungaro.

This isn't your mother's tie-dye. Well maybe it is your mother's if she's one of Mr. de la Renta's loyal ladies, but you know what I mean. The tie-dyed looks shown on the S/S 09 runways were pure femininity and flirtation, not Woodstock-redux.

Just because you can't afford these runway looks, doesn't mean you can't still achieve this elegant earth mother look. Try showing off your womanly curves in this American Apparel tie dye skirt, but I'd recommend toning down the snug skirt's sex appeal with a looser top and demure flats. These flirty black and white peeptoes would look fabulous with a full skirt, while this Calvin Klein caryall is a fun yet polished option for work. I think it would look great paired with simple basics like a wide leg khaki. These prim but perky ballets are another great option for the workday, but would also transition to the weekend as a pretty but comfortable footwear option. I'd wear these flats with basics as well to really let their color and design pop.

Clockwise from top left: Tie Dye Interlock Pencil Skirt, $36 (available at American Apparel); Stella Tie-Dye Tote Bag, $298 (available at Calvin Klein); BCBGirls Ariel, $88.95 (available at Zappos); Reed Evins Tie Dye Ballet Flats, $282 (available at Shopbop).

Runway photos courtesy of Style.com.

Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah

'The Zipper' dress by Sebastian Errazuriz (photo courtesy of Sebastian Errazuriz).

On the heels of one of Spring/Summer 09's most popular trends, the zipper accent, comes designer Sebastian Errazuriz's headline-grabbing limited edition dress. Errazuriz's dress, made from over 100 zipper fastenings can be worn in just as many ways. Want to show a little midriff? Simply unzip the fasteners around your stomach. Or you can choose whether to show a little or a lot of leg - go from PG to R in seconds just by unzipping. The designer claims that his heavy metal number is not only chic but a necessity in this economic climate - why spend the money on multiple dresses when, for the price of just one, you can achieve so many different looks? Read more about the wonder dress here.

For those of us looking to leave the do it yourself to someone else, but still recreate the unzipped style from the Versace and 3.1 Phillip Lim runways, there are many ways both big and small to get the look.

Spring runway looks from 3.1 Phillip Lim and Versace.

Let's start with accessories. A way to sport this look but keep things a little more reserved is through tiny accents like this Disaya bracelet and these handmade pieces by Kate Cusack. For a punch of color, try this bright yellow zip-trim ruffled clutch. Your feet can get in the game too with these L.A.M.B. peeptoes, rendered in a shiny gunmetal shade. These shoes add just the right touch of tough.

Clockwise from top left: Disaya Zip Zip Bangle, $226 (available at Forward); Zipper Ruffle Clutch, $72 (available at Chinese Laundry); Kate Cusack Zipper Bracelet, $300 (available through Etsy); L.A.M.B. Selene Heel, now $279.99 (available at Heels.com); Kate Cusack Zipper Pin, $85 (available through Etsy).

For a bolder statement, take the leap from accessories to apparel. Slip on a pair of celeb-approved LNA zip trim leggings - Jessica Alba and Hilary Duff are fans - or try an architectural bustier that give off a very Versace vibe. Combine some of the best trends of the 80s, the zipper and the mini, all at once with this grey Topshop skirt. Finally, I couldn't leave out these cute gold Marc by Marc zipper pull earrings. Very luxe meets loud. Which, when you think of it, is a pretty fitting way to describe the look as a whole.

Clockwise from top left: LNA Zip Leggings, $99 (available at Blue Heaven Boutique); Zip Edge Bustier, approx. $80 (available at Lipsy); Zip Around Mini Skirt, $70 (available at Topshop); Marc by Marc Jacobs Zipper Charm Stud Earrings, $68 (available at Neiman Marcus).

Hole Punch

Stella McCartney Mesh Sandal, $995 (available at Stella McCartney).

It all started with this Mary Kate Olsen-approved mesh sandal by Stella McCartney. Next thing you know, a trickle-down effect is in heated play. Boots, heels, sandals and flats are popping up all over the place covered in a million little holes or sporting mesh than a bodybuilder.

Bodybuilding aside, would the Olsens ever lead us astray when it comes to footwear? Okay, so though these McCartney-designed stilettos are swoon-worthy, $1,000 is a little bit more than my shoe budget allows. Okay, okay, in the spirit of full disclosure I'll put it all out there - my bank account hasn't had anything to do with four digits in weeks. So here are a few options of all shapes and sizes to help emulate our very favorite mini mogul on a very mini budget.

*Okay, so these Loeffler Randalls are admittedly quite a splurge, but they would make a very, very nice birthday present.

Clockwise from top left: Sam Edelman Keaton Bootie, now $124.99 (available at Urban Outfitters); Loeffler Randall Poppy Perforated Wooden Platform Sandals, $595 (available at Shopbop); Kraze Cut Out Flat Shoe, $90 (available at Topshop); Jay Heeled Sandal, $79 (available at Nine West).

Les Fauves

Bangle-adorned wrists from the Louis Vuitton S/S 2009 presentation.

Clockwise from top left: Kate Spade Keswick Caning Bangle, $195; Chiara Cheetah Bangle, $5.80 (available at Forever 21); Juicy Couture Studded Hinge Bracelets, each $98 (available at Nordstrom); Sculpted Hammered Metal Cuff, $19.50 (available at Express); Leopard Lucite Bangle, $5.80 (available at Forever 21); Cranberry Thai Bangle, $8 (available at TanoJewelry).

Louis Vuitton's jungle-inspired looks from the label's Spring Collection have been much buzzed about and photographed since their runway debut. Animal print bangles, vibrant colors, leopard prints appearing on bags large and small, feather-adorned shoes and obi sashes, untamed headdress-like hair, large tribal necklaces...totally insane. Totally brilliant.

The best way to bring this collection into your own closet and own life is by focusing on the wrist. Adopt the line's fantastic oversized bangles, interpreted of course in a more recession-friendly way.

Leopard print is de rigeur to achieving this look and Forever 21 offers great imitations for under $10 (I just picked these very bangles up this week). I've also selected a simple yet vibrant wood style, a large gold bracelet with hammered detailing, great patterned enamel bangles in yellow, blue and white and a huge cane-print model that looks straight out of another hemisphere. Whether these exact picks make it onto your wrists or you opt for others you find in your own collection or out on the prowl, just think of these fantastic four: animal, color, gold and pattern - they are a must.

So stack 'em up, ladies and unleash the beast! Crazy gorgeous patent leather bag not included.

Runway photos courtesy of Style.com.

Elizabeth and James Footwear: Sneak Peek

Two looks from the upcoming shoe collection.

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's uber-popular clothing line, Elizabeth and James, which recently forayed into jewelry, is embarking on a new, sure to be in demand footwear collection. The line, produced in conjunction with Steve Madden, is expected to hit stores this month. Prices will range from over $100 to $500, keeping mostly in line with their apparel price points.

More information to follow!

Also in the works for this tireless pair: menswear.

Photo courtesy of Zimbio.

Pants a Pretty Picture

Levi's 631 Premium Skinny Jean, $68 (available at Urban Outfitters); Diane von Furstenberg Allen Silk Charmeuse Harem Pants, $198 (available at Intermix); Boy Fit Jean, $49.50 (available at American Eagle).

A few of the biggest trends in pants right now are not for the faint of heart. If you're thinking high waists, well, we've moved way beyond that. These wild ones are are coming in like a lion and showing no sign of going out like a lamb.

There is a very visible 80s influence in current denim trends. It is impossible to ignore the effect that Balmain's S/S 2009 showing has had on fashion in general (singlehandedly bringing back the shoulder, for one, but that's a whole other post) and denim specifically. The collection sent down many a pair of legs wrapped in stonewashed and ripped jeans down the runway, which have since walked their way into many stores. I like these Levi's, which have an almost tie-dyed affect and these American Eagle ripped boyfriend jeans. I'd pair both with a sky-high bootie or polish them up with a satin or jewel-adorned heel, like Decarnin selected for his show. The key is to dress up the casual, edgier style and create an unexpected juxtaposition of textures, colors and levels of formality.

Two looks from Balmain's Spring/Summer 2009 presentation.

Another undeniably huge under-the-waist trend is the harem pant. These loose, louche leg coverings have trickled their way down from the runways to mass retailers like h&m and the Express. I personally love this tamer DVF style, offered in luxe, drapey silk. They maintain the popular shape, but are a bit more wearable. Pair with loose layers (but be sure to define your waist with a wide belt, so it doesn't get lost in the yards of fabric), as seen on the Phi runway or opt for a shrunken jacket and smaller tank or tee to create more of an opposites attract kind of look. Either way, you are ready for the coming months from the ankle up.

A Phi S/S 2009 runway look.

Runway photos courtesy of Style.com.

Oh, You're Such a Stud

Clockwise from top left: Twelve by Twelve Crop Studded Jacket, $39 (available at Forever 21); Lena Wald Spike Earring, $220 (available at Blondette);Fallon Medium Machine Age Bangle, $165 (available at Barney's); Jeffrey Campbell Studded Heel, $148 (available at Urban Outfitters); Macee Sandal, $89 (available at
Nine West).

One of my favorite styles right now (or timeless look, depending upon your punk rock leanings) is a real stud. Whether on clothing or accessories, studded accents always look - dare I say it? - fierce. And not to worry, this tough girl trend has legs - studs have been heavily featured for a few seasons now and don't seem to be disappearing, so take comfort knowing your purchase need not be a disposable one.

How to wear these less than delicate looks? If you are a little more girl than grrr, opt for these small, white gold stud earrings by Lena Wald or the very lightly embellished ivory Nine West sandals. Both of these introduce the look in a more subtle and feminine way. Another baby step taking you into edgier territory is a stud-adorned bangle, like this one by Fallon. For the more daring, go all out in these all-over embellished heels or try Forever 21's cropped and studded short-sleeved jacket. These make a bold statement while looking stylish, not harsh.

Why not take a walk on the wild side? Forget your inner child, let loose your inner sinner!

Chic of the Week

Who: Ginnifer Goodwin, actress.

What: A strapless Yves Saint Laurent gown.

When: Sunday, March 15, 2009.

Where: At the YSL-hosted Metropolitan Opera Party in New York.

Why: I am very into the way that this gown is styled. I think her hair is perfect and goes so well with the delicate drop earrings and feminine frills of the dress - all balanced out by the massive cuff the actress is sporting on her left wrist.









Photo courtesy of Marie Claire UK.

Nice Work GMA

Yesterday I was already 10 minutes late to work, but couldn't pull myself off the couch because I was entranced with a segment on Good Morning America. Outside of Robin's painful BBF reference, I found everything in their "Picture Perfect Spring Looks for Spring" segment to be fashion-forward and perfect for spring.

New York & Company City Trench -$45, Baggu Purple Bag - $8, Dennis Basso Animal Umbrella - $21, Baker's Brown Rain Riding Boots - $36

Uniqlo Green Cropped Windbreaker - $30, Crocs Silver Malindi Flats - $30, Lesportsac Kacey Silver Bag - $42, Moma Color Spectrum Umbrella - $40

I don't normally think too much about umbrellas, but maybe now I'll think twice before grabbing the black umbrella I bought at Walgreens before walking out the door. What about you? Do you think about your rain gear as fashion?

[Belated] Chic of the Week

Who: Model and style icon, Kate Moss (pictured with Kaiser Karl).

What: Shiny, slink silver Fendi.

When: Wednesday, March 11, 2009.

Where: At the Fendi Party in Paris.

Why: This 1930s-inspired look looks, well, inspired. Kate makes a fur and gown look look so comfortable, casual and natural yet still elegant. I also adore the simple, pulled back hair that looks like it was just done as she was running out the door, rather than sitting with a stylist for hours.










Photo courtesy of InStyle UK.

FB&F Brings it Home

We don't normally blog about home decor (mostly because we don't know squat about it), but anyone with style in their closet will at some point want that style to carry throughout the rest of their home. Feeling dissatisfied with the way your apartment looks is something most of us feel occasionally, but that feeling is often forgotten or pushed aside as soon as you walk out the door.

However, as the NY Times pointed out today, now that more people are losing jobs, cutting back on nights out, and canceling vacations we are all spending more time at home and getting more dissatisfied with our "boring" apartments every minute.

So how do you fix up your place when you are tight on cash? The NY Times challenged five designers to makeover five NY apartments for less than $300. So could they do it? And if so how? (Hint: Ikea!) Click here to find out.

Love, Gauguin

Some of spring's biggest trends seem to be ripped right from the canvases Paul Gauguin so colorfully created during his years spent in Tahiti. The bright shades, stripes, one-shouldered looks and loose, dropped-crotch pants (in a pale pink paired with crisp, deep navy) so predominant in his renderings of the island's women were reflected in S/S 09 collections as diverse as Chloe and Kors.

A selection of works from Paul Gauguin's years in Tahiti

Looks from Michael Kors and Marc Jacobs, Spring/Summer 2009

Bold stripes in blue and yellow, nearly identical to those represented by Gauguin, showed up on Marc's runway, while Zac Posen showed a one-shouldered gown in his collection in a soft gray reminiscent of one worn by one of Gauguin's island beauties (albeit a bit less...ahem...revealing).

Two runways looks from the Spring/Summer 2009 collections of Chloe and Zac Posen

A look from Lanvin Spring/Summer 2009

Lush, sexy island brights were present in Alber Elbaz's designs for Lanvin's Spring Collection in that same leafy green preferred by Gauguin and the Chloe S/S 09 presentation featured soft, pretty island-ready dhotis in a soft peachy-pink, also favored by the expat artist.

Another look from Chloe, S/S 2009

GET THE LOOK:

Stripes

Clockwise from top left: Juicy Couture Shrunken Stripe Blazer, $248 (available at Bloomingdale's); Diagonal Stripe Sleeveless Dress, $169 (available at Liz Claiborne); Seaport Boatneck, $22.50 (available at L.L. Bean); Drape Pocket Pencil Skirt, $55 (available at Topshop);
Ribbon Belt, $39.50 (available at J. Press).

Make a big statement with this long, diagonal-stripe dress from Isaac Mizrahi's new collection for Liz Clairborne or keep the impact smaller with a striped belt. For those with special daring, give a horizontal and a vertical stripe a whirl - the key here is different colors and different stripe widths.

One Shoulder and Island Brights

Aqua Couture Strappy Mini Balloon Dress, $130.43; Rainbeaux Knotted Waist Detail Dress, $97.41; Prophecy One Shoulder Gathered Waist Gold Embellished Dress, $105.66 (all looks available at ASOS).

Try out spring's one-shoulder trend in a daring, glaring bright or opt for a tamer, paler shade for more of a ripple than a splash. To focus on color rather than shape, I love this juicy blood-orange hue in a simple, drapey form.

Floaty Pink Harems and Navy

Double Waisted Cropped Silk Pant, $129 (available at Bebe); Banglez Sandal, $89.95 (available at Steve Madden); Hawks by Geren Ford Grommet Tank, $88 (available at Urban Outfitters).

I love this season's dhoti or harem style pant. This pink is such a feminine way to wear the look and I love it paired with classic navy. This long, loose silk tank and studded strappy sandals help to complete this pretty, casual island look. Totally vacation-ready. Now if only I still got Spring Break....

Gauguin images courtesy of AllPosters.com, Fine Art Prints on Demand, Kora in Hell and Gaugin Posters. Runways photos courtesy of Style.com.

Falling into the Gap

Clockwise from left: 3-Strap Platform Sandals, $98; Multi-Colored Gladiators, $39.50; Ruffle Sandals, now $19.99; Multi-Colored Gladiators, $39.50 (all available at Gap).

The past few seasons, Gap has really been stepping it up (pardon the pun) when it comes to all things below the ankle - and their Patrick Robinson-designed clothes aren't so bad either. I love these retro platforms that are just calling out for short-shorts and fringe and these multi-toned gladiators that feel very A.P.C. or Isabel Marant.

Bravo, Gap. Or should I say a huge merci to Pierre Hardy?

New Landscapes

If you haven't yet watched Halston's A/W 2009 video presentation, I'd recommend an immediate viewing. I'm wild about it. In lieu of a traditional runway show, the recently-resurrected design house instead shot a short film starring Dree Hemingway (daughter of Mariel, great-granddaughter of Ernest) tearing through the streets of Manhattan. The former ballerina is shown loping across the sidewalk in floaty lemon yellow chiffon, interspersed with the occasional scene of a model sprawled across a stoop or the backseat of a car.

Whether or not this new format was chosen in earnest for the sake of innovation, or if it was selected as a way to chicly save a few dollars...well, I will never know. But it is absolutely lovely and is most certainly the wave of the future.

Visit the Halston website to view.

Dree Hemingway.

Photo courtesy of Park Avenue Peerage.

Chic of the Week

Who: Actress Freida Pinto.

What: Dolce & Gabbana dress and belt.

When: Monday, March 2, 2009.

Where: At the Extreme Beauty in Vogue party, hosted by Dolce & Gabbana in Milan.

Why: The gorgeous Slumdog Millionaire star looks otherwordly in this milky white satin frock paired with an embellished belt, black satin platforms and Pantene commercial shiny hair. This look is all shine and glamour and totally divine.

The same look from the Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2009 runway.

Photos courtesy of InStyle UK and Style.com.