Wednesday Wishlist: Leather Weather

Fall always makes me dream of leather, though I've never actually had much in my wardrobe. I love a classic moto jacket, but I've never tried anything more adventurous. I definitely admire ladies who can rock a leather top or skinny leather pants, but I can't see working either into my wardrobe right now.

I do like the idea of a little leather -- just enough to hint at a bit of toughness without the commitment of fully encasing my limbs in thick, suffocating animal hide (because that doesn't seem like a particularly good idea in swampy Florida). Pieces that feature a subtle leather (or faux leather) accent seem like a great compromise, and they are everywhere right now. Let's take a look...

clockwise from l to r:

Calvin Klein Trench with Faux Leather Sleeves ($300) -- a classic trench with a bit of edge.

Rebecca Taylor Faux Leather Trimmed Cotton Jacket ($178) -- a cozy little black and white striped sweater with cool detailing. 

Blue Vanilla Cream Leather-Look Trim Knitted Cardigan ($53) -- just so dreamy, I'd wear this cocoon-y belted wrap sweater with full-leg black trousers or skinny jeans.

Banana Republic Factory Mixed Media Ponte Dress ($66) -- I love an easy-but-pulled-together work dress, and this shift dress is perfect.

Rag and Bone Lira Leather-Trimmed Sweatshirt ($148) -- you don't have to sacrifice style for comfort -- the delivery guy will notice if you make an effort and throw this on when he shows up with your hangover omelet.

Bagatelle Tweed and Leather Jacket ($160) -- a great little topper for those cool days when you don't quite need a heavy coat.

Forever 21 Striped Makeup Pouch ($6) -- the black on black stripe makes this inexpensive bag look quite luxe.

Forever 21 Metallic Tweed Platform Slipons ($30) -- just enough leather to toughen up a sweet shoe.

Zara Top with Faux Leather Pockets ($50) -- I'd size up and wear this with leggings for an easy Saturday look.

Three Ways: Sexy Strappy Heels

I fell in love with these shoes the moment I saw them. Ultimately I passed on them (I'm working on not just blindly satisfying every whim and desire -- it's not the most fun thing ever), but I did spend some time contemplating them and dreaming up lots of great ways to wear them:

Late Dinner Out

This was really my first instinct. I just love the idea of that sexy peep-toe platform peeking out from under a pair of super long, super slim flared jeans. These MiH Marrakesh flares are my absolute favorite denim silhouette ever. Legs. For. Days. I'd keep everything else simple -- a pretty white blouse, a classic bag, a cool necklace, and this funky tortoise ring.

Dancing All Night

I am always drawn to things with a sexy 70's Halston vibe. This wide-leg jump suit is perfect -- not too costume-y, super flattering. You don't really need too much else: great earrings and a little clutch with a touch of gold. Add a quick swipe of sheer red lipstick and you're ready to go.

(Very) Casual Friday

I don't think I would wear these shoes to work, but could you? Yes, I think so. You just want to shift the vibe from sexy to kind of mod, and a graphic shirt dress like this one from Boden is fantastic. Add some layers -- opaque tights and a good blazer. Finally, some office-friendly jewelry. I love this delicate necklace and a pretty rose gold watch. A sheer pink gloss like NARS Turkish Delight keeps it all very soft and sweet.