Ah, To Be Young Again

I have loved J. Crew for a ridiculously long time. I adore their quirky preppy aesthetic, the fresh faced models, and the beautiful styling and photography of their catalogs. It makes sense that I would be equally enamored of their Crewcuts collection, petite sized J. Crew togs for the privileged kids.

You may scoff, but take a good look, and I guarantee you will be as amazed as I am at the chicness of these clothes. More often than not, I end up liking the Crewcuts selections better than the clothes for the adults! I may be experiencing regression, but if I get to wear these mini fashions, then that's fine by me.Here's an example of that fashionably slick photography. How adorable do these kids look? And I even hate kids! Even though I'll be focusing on the girl's clothes in this post - cuz I'm a girl - I must say that the boy's clothes are equally as fetching. Little madras and seersucker blazers, plaid shirts, and bright sweaters, oh my!

Behold, the Grace dress. Appropriate name for such a sweet 60s shift. I love the jeweled neckline on this.

This is the shirtdress of my dreams. Dear J. Crew, can you please please make this in adult sizes? The ruffled collar, bell sleeves, and empire waist are so lovely. I really enjoyed how they styled it in the early spring catalog, with a gondolier's hat, yellow wellies, and a tulle skirt peeking out - CUTE!

This makes me think of Valentino for all of its ruffled goodness. I hate bright colors like this, but somehow I find it perfect for the style of the dress. The back is a real show stopper, with a big box pleat and little crystal buttons.

Another thing to love about Crewcuts, and J. Crew in general, is how they really think about the designs, adding in little details that make a boring piece special. I am taken by the ruffled sleeves, subtle sparkle, and pockets. Again, this would be perfect for your adult customers, J. Crew!

Another perfect little 60s silhouette, this time in a metallic brocade fabric. I still cannot picture any kid I know wearing anything like this though. Especially when you consider the price of most of these garments. Nearly $300 jackets for little snotty? No thanks.

Metallic ruffled tulle skirt. Enough said.

Long Red Curly Hair

It seems every time I check out Foto Decadent I find so many gorgeous editorials! This one, "Soldier Will You Marry Me" is especially cool. From UK Vogue, shot by the amazing Tim Walker, and modeled by Karen Elson, whom I find to be a lovely model and person, even though she is married to the man of my dreams. Susie Bubble already posted about this, but I wanted to share with my devoted readers too! So, here are my three favorites. As always, head to Foto Decadent for more shots.

This, in my opinion, is the best one of the bunch. That luscious pink gown is beyond any description I could conjure, so I'll just let its frothiness speak for itself. Love the mirror too. And that face!

Love it. Slightly creepy, and at the same time, highly adorable. The dress and the white tights are inspired.

The pose, the toy soldier, the train...perfect. It reminds me of The Nutcracker, which is appropriate, considering Elson's ballerina-esque frock and flats.

Go check out the whole thing. It is really smashing for UK Vogue, who usually veers to the tacky side of things. Tim Walker is one of my favorite fashion photogs - he brings such a sense of whimsy to everything he does. Enjoy!

*Title comes from "Take Take Take" by The White Stripes

The Sound of Fashion: Vampire Weekend

Welcome to another installment of TSOF, where I make up a couple of outfits based on the style of a particular album. My choice this time is Vampire Weekend, an indie band formed in a Columbia dorm room. They have been getting a lot of hype lately, and usually that makes me a little leery.

But I have given their debut a good listen and all I have to say is "wow." These guys rock. Their songs are inspired by relationships, the Ivy life, and summer weekends on the Cape. Basically, it is prep to the core. But they have brought together disparate musical styles, like African musical traditions and 80s bands like Talking Heads (whom I adore, by the way) to create something utterly unique, and damn catchy.

For my VW inspired outfits, I have chosen some preppy standbys like Sperry Top-Siders and rope belted navy capris, as well as a khaki skirt and striped blazer. But just like VW, I've thrown in some ethnic inspiration with the printed Built By Wendy camisole and bright African headscarf. There is definitely a hint of the 80s as well, as evident in the blazer's angular lines and bold print and the red patent bag. I think it's a good mix of Blair and Serena (for all of you GG fans out there) that sums up the style of Vampire Weekend: old school meets new school.

It's Been a Long Cold Lonely Winter...

...and I am ready for the sunshine of spring. With the warmer weather comes the promise of colorful spring blooms and, of course, new fashions. Here are a few of my favorite spring inspirations.

Wardrobe Remixer Boboniaa is one incredibly stylish girl. I am always in awe of her fantastic eye for color and her ability to layer the most disparate items and make them look perfect together. This look is a great example of that use of color, which is one of the things I'd like to do for spring. I like a somewhat neutral palette, but I love bright blues and reds, so finding more ways to incorporate pops of color into my everyday outfits would be so refreshing.

I love this layered look, using a monochromatic palette. She's keeping the colors in the same scheme, but making it interesting by mixing patterns. I have a French nautical thing going on, but sometimes I feel like it's a little "done" for spring. Throwing in another pattern, or changing up the proportions, like Boboniaa does, will add life to a somewhat stale look.

Finally, a chic, almost Audrey inspired outfit in neutral tones. This would be a nice transition outfit, and I love how she does something a little unexpected, with the silver shoe and pop art-esque clutch.

From Style.com, a look from Charles Nolan's fall 2008 ready to wear show. Yes, I am getting spring inspiration from a fall runway show! But I really like the concept of having year-round clothing, layering more spring or summer appropriate pieces with heavier items. Now, this look is not perfect - I detest the ugly floral, it looks like bad 80s chintz - but the idea is what I enjoy. I'll get a patterned full skirt and pair it with a bright cardigan and scarf. This would be another ideal transition outfit.

This look, however, is perfect! It's Charles Nolan again, this time spring 2008. I love the 1920s style wide leg trousers, they have such an easy, sophisticated feel. I have quite a few trousers for fall and winter, but not that many for spring. I'd like to do more than skirts and dresses when the weather warms up, and this is lovely.

Finally, The Cherry Blossom Girl does Versailles! I adore everything this mademoiselle wears, but this look is especially pretty. I am dying to find a similar floaty dress that I can wear with espadrilles and chunky cognac leather sandals, and then come fall, with dark tights a la Erin Fetherston.

Why the Hell Should I Stay Awake?

I have been enchanted by Vogue Girl Korea, the lovely fashion magazine that always delights me with its innovative photography, gorgeous styling, and whimsical attitude. While browsing Foto Decadent, I found this cute editorial called "Sudden Sleep," photographed by Hong Jang Hyun. I find the concept so interesting, and so out of the ordinary, that I just had to share! Go to Foto Decadent for more shots from this editorial, in larger sizes that are decidedly more impactful than mine!Makes me think of long road trips! I've always though that if someone opened the door while I was still asleep from the drive, this is what would ensue. The vintage car is a nice touch.

This one has a somewhat voyeuristic quality about it. It's as if the girl lost the key to her apartment and had to sleep on the floor. I love the point of view as well - it gives a sense of vertigo!

Mmm...springtime naps in nature.

This is definitely one of my favorites. It is very mysterious, but also somehow serene. The cool colors and soft edges are so calming to me.

I enjoyed the entire editorial, and I love the concept of catching someone in an intimate, vulnerable moment. It is so beautiful.

*Title from the song "Fade Together" by Franz Ferdinand

Don't Mind Her, She's French

I've always admired the way many French women dress. They have such a distinct, sophisticated style and a carefree attitude about fashion that is so chic. Of course, there are many other stylish women around the world, but today I am going to focus on the French. My own personal style is a mix of preppy, classic New England and edgy Parisian, with a hint of vintage flair. Lately I've been studying the blogs of such stylish French femmes like The Cherry Blossom Girl and Punky B, hoping to emulate their timeless, yet modern looks.

One thing I have noticed about French style is that there are two distinct categories: Parisian and Provencal. This by no means exhausts the endless creative talents of French fashion lovers. There is so much more to it than what I cover here, because every individual has their own style. I am just choosing to highlight two types that I believe embody the essence of what foreigners like me see as French style.

The Parisian look is slick and clean, with touches of nautical inspiration. The starkness of black and white can be tempered by a soft, cloud-like scarf thrown just so around the neck, or by the ruggedness of equestrian accessories. The simplicity of a Parisian outfit seems like it took no time at all to put together, but careful attention has been paid to the shapes, silhouettes, colors, and materials. Casual basics mix with more "designed" pieces to emphasize that idea of balance. Once and a while a bright color interrupts the subdued palette.

Provence is a region in southern France known for it's lively, colorful prints, beautiful countryside, lavender fields, and overall easygoing atmosphere. It is an enchanting place, where life slows to a smooth rhythm, measured by the sun, the wind, and the sea. The fashion of Provence tends to be more laid back than Parisian style, with more consideration to vintage looks. Little floral prints, bright ethnic scarves, and more color in general help to exemplify the Provencal style. Silhouettes are looser, such as smock dresses, billowy tops, and a-line skirts.

This is just one girl's opinion about French style. Really, books could be written about the subject and we would still be wondering about it, because each person, regardless of nationality, has their own ideas about the way they dress. That's what makes style so fascinating: it is utterly elusive.

Two Stylish Sisters

As you all well know, the 1920s is one of my favorite time periods. I love the dramatic changes that happened during the decade, especially the changes in fashion. The colors, lines, fabrics, and silhouettes were becoming looser and longer. Designers were more creative and innovative with their work. It truly was a unique time for design.

One of my favorite television series is The House of Eliott, a BBC series that aired in the 1990s - so long ago now! The series follows two sisters, Beatrice (Bea) and Evangeline (Evie) Eliott as they live their dream: to build a successful fashion house in 1920s London. It is such a shame that I cannot find many pictures of the show, but the costumes are so lavish and exciting. They really transport me to the roaring 20s! I find many of the ensembles to be quite modern as well. In one of the first episodes Evie wears a blouson top with very skinny pants, and she looks like one of the many pretty young things captured by The Sartorialist! In the later episodes, both Bea and Evie become more daring with their style, but I personally enjoy Evie's style the best. She always takes risks and is never afraid to be different. I especially enjoy her long necklaces and artfully tied headscarves! The hats are gorgeous as well - I am longing for a perfect cloche to wear jauntily atop my head.

Both sisters have an appreciation for art, and they try to transmit that passion through their own clothes as well as through their designs. The House of Eliott gains a reputation as being one of the most innovative new fashion houses. For their second collection, Evie suggests having ballet dancers model the clothes instead of traditional mannequins. It created a bit of a controversy, but in the end it proved that the Eliott sisters know how to make an impact!

Even though their business sense sometimes leaves something to be desired, they always push themselves to be unique. This is a timeless lesson to be learned! Never compromise when it comes to your style.

Unrelated side note: Juno is one boss movie, dudes! Go see it now!

Be Beaux Arts: Dancers of Degas

BBA is a series in which I use a piece of artwork as fashion inspiration. This time I have chosen Edgar Degas' 1878 Dancers, a beautiful, lyrical work that showcases one of his inspirations: ballet. I am feeling drawn to soft shades of pink and grey, as you can probably tell! The hazy quality of the Degas pastel is so evocative of smooth silk, rustling tulle, and the lithe bodies of the dancers. It's such a calming world.

Pink and grey are classic ballet colors. They are simple and quiet, but when combined with interesting shapes and a dancer's attitude, these two unassuming colors become electrifying! Of course you must get the shades right: light pink and dove grey or slate grey with a touch of blue are ideal. Wrap sweaters, like the ruffled grey one from Anthropologie, immediately nod to ballet. Lush layers of fabric like the ruffled pink sweater from Anthropologie and the white empire dress from Max Studio are like tulle skirts, but much more wearable for everyday. And you don't need to wear ballet flats to get the ballet look. Pink and grey on any round toed shoe will suffice. Both shown are from UO.

I Wanna Be Marie

Sorry! I seem to be saying that quite a lot lately. I have been a bad blogger because, well, I have a life. So, get over it people! I'm giving you a little treat in the form of some shots from this Carl Bengtsson editorial. Yes, it is from my new favorite site, Foto Decadent. I adore the lush, Marie Antoinette inspired look, with the slightly hazy colors and soft, floating fabrics.

Don't you just wish you could do this all day? "Excuse me darling, I can't go out right now because I have to luxuriate on my chaise lounge."

Heavens me! I am a vision in this frothy frock! Methinks I look like one of the blancmanges from Monty Python - in the best possible way (and without a tennis racket, naturally).

Le sigh.

Tres jolie, n'est-ce pas? Click for more.

The Sound of Fashion: Little Amber Bottles

Time for another one of my favorite features, The Sound of Fashion, where I interpret the sound of a particular band's album using clothes. This time I have chosen Blanche's new album, Little Amber Bottles. Blanche is a group of five guys and dolls who do what can best be described as goth-country-Americana-rock. Trust me, it's fabulous. They, like me, have an affinity for all things old-fashioned, particularly of Dustbowl-era America. Their sound is classic and modern all at once, but you can definitely hear the strains of 1920s country, 1800s lyrical sensibilities, and 1950s rock.

A pretty lace blouse with floral embroidery is sweet and feminine, but paired with menswear inspired knickers, the look becomes more mysterious. A bracelet of jewel-toned glass cameos and straight from Cold Mountain lace up boots complete the outfit. Don't forget a pair of black lace gloves and and a mint julep. Yee haw!

Delightfully Decadent

Foto Decadent has been in the back of my mind for a while. I have heard so many great things about it, but I never really gave more than a minute's glance. Thanks to Jennine of The Coveted, however, I am now absolutely smitten! It is the perfect place to find truly artistic and innovative fashion photography, something I am constantly on the lookout for.

I ventured there today and found a gorgeous editorial by Denise Grunstein. I love the Alice in Wonderland look, and the atmospheric lighting. The whole thing has a mysterious, slightly macabre undertone, with whimsical costumes and rich, saturated colors. A feast for the eyes! Go here for more.

Wrap Up Warm on This Winter Night

A reader asked me what she should wear in the coldest, heaviest, most bitter winter weather and still look stylish. This is an issue that affects anyone who has to deal with bad winters, so I thought I would do a whole post for it. Now, this is easily something that I could devote an entire blog to, being from New England, but I have whittled it down to a few key suggestions.Let's start with the top half. I like the concept of light layers, because when it's really cold, one measly sweater isn't enough for braving the elements, and it's way too hot for the indoor heat. Start with a simple long sleeve thermal tee or even a whisper thin sweater. Then add a cardigan on top. These grey options, from Casch Copenhagen and Banana Republic are perfect, because they have design interest but are also very warm. Or, put on a cozy turtleneck, like the ivory one seen above, also by Banana Republic. You could also layer a short sleeved sweater over your tee, and then top it with a wool blazer, for a very Balenciaga look.

I think keeping things fairly neutral is the best way to mix and match. That way, you can begin with only a few key pieces, and re-wear them without wearing the exact same outfit. Two to three tees, four pullover sweaters, one cardigan, and perhaps one blazer should be enough for a solid foundation. A simple checked scarf (Banana again) and a colorful hat (both by Anthropologie) keep you warm and they add color to an otherwise neutral palette.

Now for the bottom. Wool trousers are great for warmth, but not so great if it's going to be wet, so go for a nice super skinny denim trouser instead. They'll keep you warm and they will dry better if snow or sleet happens to get on them. Wear nice thick socks and pull on some nice weatherproof boots over the jeans. If you want something a little more dressed up, and it's going to be a dry day, go ahead and wear a skirt. This red one is cut a little long, and it's wool, so it will be warm, especially if you wear it with thick tights. Again, knee high boots are best. Pick ones with flat, rubber soles so you don't slip all over the place. Long coats will keep you warmest. One that is somewhat fitted on top and flares out a little on the bottom is best for fit and comfort. If you pick one that is too fitted all the way down you won't be able to move, but one that is too baggy won't keep you very warm.

Be Beaux Arts: Medieval Maiden

For this installment of BBA, I have chosen Dante Gabriel Rossetti's Jane Morris (The Blue Silk Dress), 1868. Rossetti was one of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood of the 19th century, a group of artists who borrowed from the styles of the Old Masters, often choosing to paint Medieval subjects. Interestingly, the dresses they chose for their models - deep, saturated colors in silks and velvets - became somewhat of a fashion trend in the 1860s, known as the Artistic or Aesthetic Dress Movement. They were usually loose fitting, with puffed sleeves, and quite plain otherwise. The focus was on the simplicity of form, and the sensual pleasure offered by swaths of luxurious fabric. One was expected to have the same reaction when viewing these stunning works of art, which often featured vivid color, striking contrasts (the play of light and dark, for example), and texture.

So if you want to be the heroine of a Pre-Raphaelite painting, like Jane Morris, you'll need one lovely dress. This Calypso one is perfect, as it just happens to be blue silk, and of course the style of the dress is very simple. Large, ornate earrings hint at a time gone by. Roses frequently made appearances in Pre-Raphaelite paintings, with their many sensual connotations. Lay this gorgeous pink one on your lap, tuck it behind your ear, or insert it into a leather bound journal to keep track of your many dreams.

What I Would Wear: 7th on Sale

Welcome to another installment of WIWW. If you don't know what that is, click on the label and scroll to the first WIWW post. It's pretty simple, and very fun! For my fantasy fashion event I have chosen the 7th on Sale black tie gala, held in NYC on November 15. 7th on Sale is a huge auction, where you can bid on thousands of designer goods, and all proceeds benefit AIDS patients.Since it's black tie, and such a high profile event, I want to make heads turn. So I am going to be wearing this Elie Saab couture creation. I love the neckline - it's mod, futuristic, and more than a little badass, in my humble opinion. The flowing skirt is what really makes an impression though. The graduation of colors, from black to mist grey to lavender, is just stunning. With my sharp flapper haircut and heavily lined eyes, I'll look dark and beautiful. I didn't pick out accessories or shoes, because really, with a gown like this, I could go barefoot and no one would care.

Casual Fridays?

The plight of any fashion conscious working girl is the eternal question of what to wear to a boring office job. You want to look fabulous, but you also have a strict dress code. I don't have a typical office job, so thankfully that isn't a concern for me. But what would I do in that situation? Succumb to the uniform of over-worked and over-tired office drone? Oh hell no! I'll take my fashion cues from 50s era silver screen mavens, 60s secretaries, and the indie darlings of today. Sexy, form-fitting, and professional? Yes ma'am!

The Sound of Fashion: Ballad of the Broken Seas

Music is an extremely important part of my life. So is fashion. What happens when you mix the two? The Sound of Fashion, a new Modiste series! I'll pick a singer or band and a particular album of theirs, and then interpret the sound using fashion. This time I have chosen Isobel Campbell's collaboration with Mark Lanegan, Ballad of the Broken Seas.

Isobel is a Belle & Sebastian alum, which happens to be one of my favorite bands. On this venture, she and Lanegan have created a gorgeous mix of styles - ranging from bluesy folk to country to pure pop rock. The result is a timeless and haunting album that transports the listener to weathered beach houses and overgrown rural landscapes dotted with rusty pick up trucks. Head to Amazon for a sampling, and then buy a copy! It's the perfect thing to listen to when you need a little alone time. Great for road trips as well!

A lovely navy blue ruffly shirtdress (that bears more than a passing resemblance to Isobel's!) is the perfect piece to represent the album's unique sound. It is at once classic and fresh, citified sophistication and country girl swagger. Fringed boots reminiscent of 70s rock goddesses and a sexy, slim denim skirt hint at a certain sultriness. A simple wool cap and plaid shirt are laid back and effortless.

What I Would Wear: Teen Vogue Fashion U

Welcome to a new series that I call What I Would Wear. For each WIWW post, I will choose a fashionable event that I cannot attend, and show you exactly what I would wear if I were lucky enough to attend. Got it? Good. WIWW is a fantasy in and of itself, so there is no budget. That makes things a lot more fun! For my first WIWW, I have chosen Teen Vogue's Fashion University, a three day event in NYC that starts with a concert, then there is a day of seminars and lectures, and finally a graduation day in Bloomingdale's. Here's what I would wear:This first outfit is for the day of seminars and lectures. Since it's Fashion U, I decided to go with a Parisienne school girl look. It's a bit quirky, and a little coquettish, which is the perfect mix in my world! I am going for a mix of high and low for all of my outfits, since it seems like a TV thing to do. A Built By Wendy jumper is the centerpiece of the outfit, and the stripy tights and fabulous pumps add color and whimsy. A bow tie blouse and jaunty beret complete the look with a French flair. Top it all with a 60s style swing coat and I'm ready to go!

The outfit on the left is for the very first day, which I assume involves meeting people, and then the concert afterwards. I went for a chic, Carine Roitfeld inspired look, with a bright blue silk top and a swingy grey skirt. Fierce oxford pumps and an asymmetrical blazer - both in black - have real attitude. I'll take the blazer off for the concert! For jewels, I'm thinking a big stack of pearls. The outfit on the right is for the last day, and perhaps may be a little dressy but who cares. This is my fantasy! I went with a classic and simple frock from J. Crew, accessorized with amazing Moschino pumps. I will certainly be chilly in this, so I'll wear the Westwood blazer over it to make it a little more casual and funky. I'd love a 1920s style silver headpiece to wear in place of any earrings or necklaces.

Pulchritudinous

Spotted this girl on Prada and Meatballs and I am in love with her look! The fantastic skirt, slouchy menswear-inspired shirt, and carefree attitude. Tres chic!