STYLE LOVES

February fashion talk is generally devoted to Valentine’s Day lovelies. Which I’m feeling is just so last year… and the year before… and the year before that… and so on all the way back to the beginning of time. Instead, I’m going for three up-and-coming trends that I am loving right now. Any one of them would make for a perfect valentine.

Asos

I am completely smitten with fluorescents. They’re a fantastic jolt of electric color that wakes up neutrals and singes with style. Just like electricity, too much will kill you, or your outfit, metaphorically speaking. Skinny belts or a few bangles are just the right voltage.

Badgley Mischka

Charm bracelets are just so undeniably charming! All the time! You can jingle jangle like Auntie Mame or opt for something more subdued, but you’ll be “charmed, I’m sure” the instant it’s on your wrist. Charm bracelets are meant to be admired, so wear it with a slim sleeve or turn back your cuff.

Lauren by Ralph Lauren

Be prepared to have your feathers ruffled. From formal tux inspired tops to abstract sculptural concoctions, everything’s coming up ruffles! I’m lusting after deep set, flamenco flounces that thrill and entice with every step.

MADE FOR WALKING

Getting dark early and bracing cold don’t exactly help you with your resolution to exercise more. In fact, mostly what the season does right now is make it hard to get out of bed on time in the morning. Which means you’re running late and running to catch the bus in toe pinching, heel rubbing shoes. And that’s not getting you off to a good start. Whether you’re racing to the office or just trying to walk a bit more during the day, there’s no reason why you can’t wear comfortable, stylish shoes.

Kenneth Cole

In the past, I’ve loved the idea of flats (so feminine and spritely!), but hated the reality (the arch nemesis of arch support!). The new versions are loaded with arch support and cushiness that mean I can play Catherine Deneuve/Audrey Hepburn any day of the week!

Cole Haan

So many dress shoe companies have partnered with sneaker companies that uncomfortable heels are a thing of the past. We might need to expand the definition of “cross training” to include a day at the office.

Earthies

Raining, pouring, sleeting, snowing… You’ll still be high stepping in a sleek, comfort driven ankle boot. Plus, the back zip entry makes airport security a walk in the park. Wear them with pants or tights and skirt.

Need help finding your perfect pair? Contact to put your best foot forward!

CLEVER CLOSETS

Happy 2012! I hope your holidays were happy and the new year is off to a terrific start. If taming your closet is one of you resolutions, you’re not alone. It’s one of the top 5, every year. Here are three oh so clever ways to keep your chic.

Toma Accesory Hanger

These ingenuous accessory hangers make it easy to organize hats, scarves and gloves all in one place.

Martha Stewart

I flat out love the idea of using picture rails for shoe storage. Now all I need is an empty wall…

Donata Paruccini

Leather balls stylishly juggle being art and storage. Instead of dropping your coat on the chair/couch*/floor when you get in, hang it here.

*I believe throwing your coat on the “davenport” is acceptable in a dramatic sort of way.

If you’re not sure what to keep and what to release, contact me for help!

FANCY FEET

Ready or not, here they come! Holiday festivities. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, they’re here to stay. So you might as well practice your smile and put your best foot forward in a glorious pair of evening shoes.

Paul & Betty

I love everything about evening boots. They’re dressy, sexy and unexpected. If you opt for satin, spare me a couple of heart attacks and use some sort of protecting spray. I like Vectra 16.

BP

Not to harp on the miracles of taupe, but it is a brilliant neutral. Pair it with everything you own for effortless chic-ness.

Sam Edelman

My friend Erinn would affectionately classify these as “mullet shoes.” You know- business in the front, party in the back. And perfect for spicing up your office party outfit.

TIP TAUPE

There’s this dark taupe-y greige color that’s somewhere between brown and grey, but super stylish everywhere I see it. Because it pulls cool undertones from the grey family and warm undertones from the brown family, it pairs perfectly with pretty much everything and is awesome with black, brown or navy leather accessories. And it has enough depth to make it exponentially easier to wear (read: flattering to more complexions) than some other neutrals like camel or beige.

Lafayette 148 New York

Tailored, slightly “off” tones are the apex of sophistication. Black is the predictable choice for a desk-to-dinner dress, but a shiitake dress highlights the design elements and the quiet confidence of the wearer.

Express

Like foggy mornings at the beach, driftwood colored sweaters are soothing and cozy. It’s almost like wrapping yourself in a steaming cup of cocoa.

Josie Natori

When draped in a supple fabric like velvet, this muted tone takes on an ultra luxurious, sable-like quality. You can dress it up with beaded top or tone it down with a sweater and boots.