YOU'VE GOT LEGS...

SHOW THE WORLD YOU KNOW HOW TO USE THEM.

Bare legs are so Summer 2010. Bundle those gams with some thick, opaque tights in white or gray to go with everything and if you're really brave (some of you are), try deep fuschia, bright blues and greens or navy with a slouchy sock and boot or some suede pumps. Either way, and without sounding to cheeky, you'll knock their socks off.

Knee socks are just as hot this season and I'll be wearing them in heather grays and deep blues, but if you're 35 or older and lack an extraordinarily ecclectic and hip wardrobe, I'd pass on this look. 

Alexander Wang Fall 2010 Show

Of course, the lace, polk-a-dot, swirls and curls legging trend continues, but change it up with a tight instead and keep those toes warm in the process. You can see tweeds and silks in black and gray are a perfect marriage.

Tights always remind me of my Catholic school days. While there were certainly moments of inappropriate candor between myself and Sister Rita (okay, maybe just myself), I always loved the cozy feeling of my uniformed, winter tight. And hey, who can argue with the mystery a tight so elegantly provides? This trend is a perfect transition piece from Fall to Winter, allowing you to continue to wear more ethereal fabrics well into the colder months, layering on top with a faux fur or shrug, perhaps a scarf or glove? The possibilities are endless.

- sister

MAD AS A HATTER FOR TOM BINNS

HOW COULD YOU NOT BE WITH PIECES THIS EXQUISITE?

Tom Binns' Black Safety Pin Necklace

Tom Binns is a phenomenal jewelry designer who mixes hard and soft gems and textures with such semblance, the irony of the pairing almost disappears. Costume, maybe, but divine and revolutionary and certainly leading in one of the biggest jewelry trends to date, Binns' pieces are smartly intermixed with pearls and metal, black opalescent rhinestones, with safety pins (!) and vintage chains, skulls and diamonds. Actually, his work is utterly sensible and dynamic. 

Tom Binns' Rhinestone Pearl Necklace

Tom Binns' Silver Foil Drop Earrings, $300

Tom Binns' Skull and Diamond/Rhinestone Ring

My very first Tom Binns' piece was a gift from my husband. Dazzling silver foil drop earrings, metallic and sleek. I couldn't believe he had picked them out himself. He said the saleswoman who helped him assured him that I would simply love this designer. I always find it humorous that random sales people at random department stores can so unabashedly claim to know my taste. Nonetheless, she was right (this time). Tom Binns had just started collaborating with Cristina Viera-Newton. It was 2004, the same year Binns and Newton joined forces under the auspices of Tom Binns' Designs, LLC. One pair of earrings, that's all it took. Several necklaces and rings and cuffs and brooches later, well, you get it. Apparently, I was not alone. Binns is a force to be reckoned with in the world of bauble beauty and everybody wants a piece.

Binns' talent is so far-reaching and his couture so extravagantly perfect that just this year, Disney called upon Binns (along with designer extraordinaire, Stella McCartney) to create an "Alice in Wonderland"-themed collection. A bit trite one might think for such a wizard of gemology. I know, I thought the same, but I stand corrected. I would wear these pieces regardless of the fact that they might conjure up unsettling images of the Cheshire Cat or "falling down the rabbit hole." This stuff is off the hook unreal. 

Tom Binns' Alice in Wonderland Collection

Tom Binns should be a part of your accessory vernacular and with pieces priced to suit every pocketbook, it's almost shameful not to own one of his unique creations. Check him out http://www.tombinnsdesign.com/.

SHAKE WHAT YOUR MAMA GAVE YA...

AT ANY AGE.

As a personal stylist, I get asked the following question a lot, "How do I dress my age?" One must handle this answer with a delicate and steady hand. Never, ever imply that someone is old or even older than a given look they might be eyeing or in many cases, buying. Never, ever imply that they have poor judgement (even if they're 45 and sporting a pleather mini with crocodile pumps). Delicate conversations, folks, very delicate. My response usually starts out complimentary because the truth of the matter is, most men and women do look good for their age, they just don't know exactly how to work it.... appropriately. Please do not assume fetal position on your kitchen floor quite yet. The good news is, there is ALWAYS a variation of every given trend that will fit into your closet, with style. Today, my example is the MUST HAVE for Fall 2010... the leather pant.

Helmut Lang Leather Legging, $690 at Barney's

Breathe. Some might look at this as an overstep of my styling boundaries for the female approaching her 50's, but I disagree. I believe a leather pant or, in many cases, the leather legging, is sexy on any age and get ready, any body type. The key to this look is what you pair with it. If you are 25 to 35ish you might opt for a sheer, asymmetrical knit top with a bustier underneath and a killer heel. Avoid moto boots or anything of that genre for fear of looking too Grease Lighting. You so know what I mean. You want a tunic or a long(er) sweater that still covers the majority of the behind. Unless, you're a toothpick and can afford an open target on your booty. If you're heavier on top, you want something loose, not fitted and usually in a soft, solid color. Cinch it with a studded belt or let it hang, one shoulder exposed.

25 to 35ish look: Rebecca Minkoff's Nadia Asymmetrical Sweater,  $295 at Shopbop

I promise this is totally appropriate and definitely hot.

40 and above look: Donna Karan Cashmere Polo,  $995 at Nordstrom 

Helmut Lang Jersey Leather Legging (Pre-order), $690 at Sak's Fifth Avenue

If you are 35 to 45, however, try the legging in a paneled cotton and jersey for extra stretch and depth or a lambskin pant with a bit more breathing room in the hip department versus the legging (also pictured by Helmut Lang) with a cashmere tunic in cream or eggplant or heather gray. If you're allergic to cashmere (can you even imagine?), try jersey knit or mohair. Something that falls beneath the bottom, but shows a little decolletage. Pop the collar on this Donna Karan oversized sweater from Nordstrom's and pile on the necklaces, leaving your ears bare. Totally appropriate and dare I say it, HOT.

Jodhpur's Lambskin Pant,  $1,990 at Barney's 

At the end of the day, you have to feel comfortable in what you're wearing and if leather in general makes you want to cringe (there's always the faux/vegan version- I own a pair by Alice and Olivia and they look real), don't do it. BUT, if you've been pining away, stocking mags full of "options" that you just don't think you can pull off, trust me, you can. You know where to find us.

- sister

SHOPPING FOR THE PINT-SIZED CONSUMER:

FALL AND WINTER TRENDS FOR YOUR MINI. 

I am the mother of three. Three aged 4 and under. I love being a mom. I also love shopping for my children. I AM a stylist, after all. In my daily walk of life, I make sure to uncover every treasure for the vertically-challenged, little people in my life. We all have one child who's individual style does not coincide with our own. Make dressing them their idea and take them shopping with you. I know, sounds awful, but really if you write down what you need and have your shopping list mapped out ahead of time, it's not so bad. Consider it a bonding moment between parent and child. If you must, have a drink beforehand. I have found that when I let my kids participate, they usually surprise me with some pretty, dare I say it, fashionable choices. 

Now, here goes my (and my children's) favorite looks for the coming months: 

• The Leg Warmer. Not exactly a new look, but one that has been updated with spectacularly colorful new prints. Very cute on the little girls and boys this season. Who says a boy can't wear tights? Pair it with a funky skirt and a ballet flat on girls and some heavier, usually tweed shorts on a boy and a loafer or tennis shoe. Huggalugs is my favorite legging designer for kids and can be found in numerous stores here in Sactown, including Goore's.

Huggalugs

• The Popped Collar. Yes, you read correctly. I don't care what gender, please for the love of GOD, pop that collar like it's hot. It is the cutest look for the under-4 crowd. BUT, if you absolutely cannot deal with your child turning heads like a member of the Breakfast Club, at least add a little prep in their step. I'm not saying you have to be consistent with the look, but this Fall, across the age spectrum, preppy is IN.  Crisp, collared shirts from Lacoste and Ralph Lauren, motorcycle jackets paired with ties (on little girls) or denim jackets, bouncy peasant hats with feathers, camel coats with gold buttons... back to school preparatory kiddie couture is HOT.   

Gracie Mae Kids by Brooke Govenar

•  A Little Bling. I don't know about you, but my two daughters would love it if I allowed them to dress like Jon Benet on a daily basis. Pink and princess fabulous, those two would have me buy stock in any and all Disney Princess paraphenalia, if they had their way. That's why I, like any mother should, try desperately to introduce them to the finer pieces of the bijoux world. Enter 14 karat gold identification bracelets that can be personalized and bring meaning to my little girls' obsessions with embellishments. Subtle, but shiny and pretty and feminine. A lovely gift. 

14 Karat Gold Identification Bracelet at Love Ivy

•  Plaids and Tweed. Boys and Girls will be sporting a glammed up lumberjack vibe this Fall through the Winter. Durable and cutting edge. Girls are in jumpers and plush sweaters and heavy coats for layering. Check out local designer, Brooke Govenar's Gracie Mae Kids for a custom-made jumper in plaid or tweed for your little girl. Boys are in big, burly hats made to cut down trees in plaids so vibrant you'll spot him across the playground with ease. Big, crinkled flannels and tweed shorts for your little man make this season SO MUCH FUN. This luxe meets practical look is hot for all ages. Why wouldn't you deck your little one out in the coolest trend? If you haven't, check out JCrew's kids' line (Crew Cuts) and get on the bus, they've got many an option in this look. 

JCrew Girls' Tweed Jacket, $225

JCrew's Cotton Shore Plaid Tie for Boys, $59.50

JCrew's Boys' Plaid Wool Trapper Hat, ON SALE $29.99

Etsy Plaid Dress by minimooh

• Lastly, Vintage Hats. Probably my favorite look for the Kiddie Committee this Fall/Winter. I mean, seriously. Who can resist a bub in a hat, let alone one that makes he or she look like she just came back from the golf course? Berets, newsboys, skull caps, fedoras, you name it, the stores are carrying it. Try the local boutiques here in town first, like one of our neighborhood stops, Koukla Kids. If not, check out Zappos.com for some killer steals in both boys' and girls' hats and this little Boston boutique that sells online (who better than an East Coast hat shop to outfit your tot's noggin?) Little Lids.

Quicksilver hat, $28 (Zappos)

Parents, listen up, there are MANY trends out there that adults should not be caught dead in, but ironically, look darling on your children. For example, rhinestone jeans and sequin berets. Please, for the love of God, do not sport this look if you are over the age of 10.  Bedazzling your tots is simply not as ostentatious as it is on yourself. Let your child pick one key part of their "look" everyday and they might just surprise you, especially if it falls into any of the above categories. This will help those desperate mothers out there, myself included, avoid Jon Benet, Jersey Shore lookalikes. Happy shopping!

- sister

A FASHION THAT DOES NOT REACH THE STREETS, IS NOT A FASHION - COCO CHANEL

THE EMERGENCE OF THE ONLINE ATELIER PLAYGROUND HAS MADE FASHION ACCESSIBLE TO ANYONE WILLING TO DO THE RESEARCH.

And for the record, if you haven't done it. I have. Shopaholics (ahem, you say it like it's a bad thing) are not discriminatory. We shop anywhere, everywhere... even cyber space. And so, in no particular order (okay, you know me better than that), I roll out my proverbial red carpet of online boutique menageries: 

WGACA Vintage Chanel bracelet at shopbop.com

SHOPBOP (http://www.shopbop.com/) : a magical, magical place. Don't argue with me. I'm addicted. And, let me tell you, they've got an option for every woman. Sorry, boys, this is a ladies' only club, but you can shop VERY easily for your female counterpart on this site. Every price range, every designer (including VINTAGE CHANEL! Hello?! See above) and everyday they offer new "looks" for the style-challenged that you could, though we don't recommend unless you are prepared to spend a couple grand, buy from head to toe. The good news is, if you do and then suffer from buyer's remorse, they offer free return shipping, return labels and all. 

REVOLVE CLOTHING for Men

REVOLVE CLOTHING for Women

REVOLVE CLOTHING (http://www.revolveclothing.com/) : a user-friendly website of various proportions, well categorized and full of both women's and men's clothing. Definitely worth a click or two at least once a week. Also provides a daily "trend" and a plethora of ready-to-wear looks for the fashion-challenged. 

PINK MASCARA 

PINK MASCARA (http://www.pinkmascara.com/) : a Costa Mesa, California company, slightly smaller inventory, but definitely competitive in providing a wide variety of options. I shop here often, especially when I'm looking for something that might be a bit harder to find. Less traffic, means less chance that it will be out of stock. Uh oh, I may have just ruined a good thing.

ALLSAINTS SPITAFIELDS (http://www.us.allsaints.com/) : sigh, I'm giving away so much right now. Another fabulous and usually discounted website. Most everything you will find at ALLSAINTS is designer and marked down to prices that could lead even the biggest skeptic into temptation's comfy bed. Serves both genders and has a luxury basics department to beat the band. Check it.

GILT Zac Posen Floral Dress

GILT  (http://www.gilt.com/sale/women?ifs=bb_1282777664) : one of my many "gilty" pleasures. One must be a member, but easy to do and certainly worth it, this online store offers amazing deals on high-end, spectacular designer items made for women, men, children, and the home; not to mention, discounted hotel reservations at some of the swankiest in the hospitality industry. GILT's functions are endless and therefore too daunting to list here. Join and you'll see. You're welcome.

NET-A-PORTER (http://www.net-a-porter.com/) : a women's online boutique that carries everything, high and low, from Splendid to Yves Saint Laurent. Oh, and everything comes so elegantly wrapped, you'll almost not want to open the package. This site is versatile and delicious. Take a bite.

Just a taste. 'Cause that's how I do. Next time you're in a bind and can't find a thing to wear, remember to check these online wonders and, friend, take it to the street.

- sister

THE FORCE IS DEFINITELY WITH HAN CHOLO...

Thug Chain Ring

Spike Ring

Turn Table Ring

Beater Ring

THE TONGUE-IN-CHEEK DESIGN COMPANY IS TURNING OUT SOME BEAUTIFUL AND FUN FINGER FROSTING.

Aside from being obsessed with their name, Han Cholo, I have been freaking out all morning while looking through their latest line of "cholo chic" (their words not mine) sterling silver and gold rings. Some of the stuff is a little too costumey for me - i.e. Skull rings and spinner wheel necklaces, but for every over the top catastrophe there is a high-style and clever piece of bling that I desperately have to have (note: my birthday is September 12th). If I could afford it I would honestly buy half the collection. My personal fave is the beater ring in silver. I mean, seriously. Buy them HERE.


- brother

BRINGING IT BACK TO THE A.L.C.

A.L.C. Twisty T Dress

MY LATEST RECESSIONISTA OBSESSION IS A.L.C. BY STYLIST, ANDREA LIEBERMAN.

If you're a Barney's girl (there's no question I am), you are probably already familiar with this line. It's a Barney's staple. However, you can usually find pieces at Nordstrom here in town. The king of ruched, pintucked, sheathed or stretched in jersey with stripes, or navy, charcoal or gray, you simply cannot go wrong purchasing one of A.L.C.'s reasonably priced dresses-- though they cover the textile spectrum. I have a pair of gray, A.L.C. harem shorts that could easily be my favorite go-to this Fall with moto boots, but back to their dresses... They are comfortable, yet chic allowing you to edge it out or bring it back, whatever you prefer. Layering is key for Fall anyway and these pieces... well, it's hard not to start with one of their “basic” (in quotations because they're anything but) stretched jersey dresses. The one pictured above is white, but you can find it in any solid color and striped if that suits your fancy. If basic makes you want to cry because you're dramatic like that, spice things up with the ruched lace dress in neutral flying off the racks right now. Pair it with a soft leather bolero jacket and some boots. C'mon, do it. You can thank me later. 

- sister

A.L.C. Rouched Lace Dress in Neutral

WHEN YOU'RE COOL THE SUN IS ALWAYS SHINING...

AND THESE SUN SPECS WILL MAKE ANYONE LOOK COOL.

Two of my favorite style blogs High Snobiety and Super combined forces this week in honor of High Snobiety's 5th anniversary with an uber limited edition (only 80 produced) pair of sunglasses. RUSH to their online store to pick up your pair for 250 euros. The sale goes up at 5pm CET. The black leather and gold details make this classic look just that much cooler than those silly raybans everyone (including myself) are wearing. Go on, you're worth it and no one in Sactown will have a pair!

- brother

FIVE LOOKS WE SIMPLY CANNOT TOLERATE...

A SISTER BROTHER PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT:

In the last week, we have seen all of the following items on people we know and care about. Consider this our passive aggressive version of an intervention. Dudes, listen up - for the sake of your dignity - Please identify and discard any items in your closet (or in one case - your face) that even remotely resembles the following: 

1) Graphic T-Shirts:

(president of the ITF - I'm a Tool Foundation)

2) The Line Beard

(You are not Jon B. You never will be.)

3) Mandles (AKA Man Sandles)

(just stop it - spare your children the embarrassment)

4) MUSCLE SHIRTS

(Shirts should never resemble a pair of tights for your man boobs)

5. Bedazzled Jeans

(they make you look like a tween from New Jersey.)

Please, friends, help us stop the insanity. Share this post with your loved ones and convince them to move toward the light. There is hope beyond Ed Hardy. 

- brother

YOU MAY WANT TO GIVE THIS HOBO A BUCK, OR TEN...

Mulberry's Daria Shoulder Bag, $1,595

Alexander Wang Studded, Darcy Slouchy Hobo Bag, $850

Madewell's Fringe Bag, $198

ESPECIALLY SINCE IT'S SURE TO RETURN THE FAVOR.

The drawstring hobo is perfect for Fall. It screams boho chic and encourages passersby to do a double take. Think a more sophisticated, styled-out version of Woodstock. A stroke of bohemian genius that is practical and can be worn with just about anything. Fringed out, buckled or not, they're all glorious. My personal favorite hobo of the season is Mulberry's Daria shoulder bag, but for a more reasonable (not going to burn a hole in your pocket so fast your thigh catches on fire) price try Alexander Wang's metal bottom deliciousness  or Madewell's super reasonable fringe fantasticness (is that a word? Oh, I don't care) in THE color for Fall, red. 


- sister

I JUST MET A GIRL NAMED BLUE JEAN, BLUE JEAN.

Above, from left: Isabel Marant fall 2010 runway, photo via Isabel Marant; Isabel Marant fall 2010 campaign photo; BDBG Cigarette Jeans, $54, available at http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/index.jsp; MiH Paris Jeans, $228, available at http://www.asos.com/; J. Crew Ankle Stretch Toothpick Jeans, $125, available at http://www.jcrew.com/index.jsp. 

Above, from left: Proenza Schouler x J. Brand Graffiti Jeans, $550, available later this month at Proenza Schouler http://www.proenzaschouler.com/shop/; Proenza Schouler fall 2010 runway look, via Proenza Schouler; Tory Burch Super Skinny Printed Jeans, $225 each, available at http://www.toryburch.com/toryburch/; Diesel Black Gold Patchwork Jeans, $650, available at http://diesel.com/


"OH BLUE JEAN- IS HEAVEN ANY SWEETER THAN BLUE JEAN"... IF DAVID BOWIE CAN CROON ABOUT IT, SO CAN WE.

Jeans. The vêtements of most women's choice. We put them on and we hope to feel sexy and comfortable, at the same time. As we all know, however, we will do things to push that comfort envelope. Shall I bring us back to the days of the 1982 Guess starched and pegged zipper jean? Forgive the ramble. That's what makes us women, right? Well, now you can enjoy the same looks that the waifs of the modeling world slip on with arrogance, perhaps unintended. 

Fall 2010 denim is a new, stretchier animal. Denim mixed with spandex, cotton, jersey, paneled and spectacular. One that allows those of us who may have had a kid or two (or three) or maybe just inherited some childbearing hips and some, what I affectionately refer to, as "junk in the trunk," to shake what our mamas' gave us. The beauty of these modern, whippy versions is they come with spunk. Graffiti washes in various colors that make Grandma cringe as we walk in the door for Thanksgiving, but the rest of us smile at the irony that only a teen of the 80's could appreciate. My personal choice still lies with the tie dye, rock and roll version- a bit stale, albeit. If you feel that graffiti takes you to a new, elevated level of (di)stress, opt for a solid color in khaki or army green or black. Regardless, do the denim of this season and do it knowing that I would not steer you astray. This is a good look. For EVERYONE. Now, go on with your bad self. 

- sister