Wednesday Wishlist: Cozy Tunics

Thanksgiving is just a few weeks away, holiday lights are going up, red cups are brimming with peppermint lattes and cocoa.  It's the perfect time for cozy knits -- specifically, a great knit tunic. Sweater dresses can be tricky. If they're too thick, or too clingy, or too bunchy you're going to feel lumpy and bumpy and spend all day fidgeting. But a looser tunic style is kind of perfect -- all of the coziness, much better fit. And great news: there are a slew of them in stores right now. Too bad it has been 90 degrees in Orlando for days.

But! Cooler temperatures must be on their way (please tell me that's true), so here are the snuggly knit dresses that I'll be wearing as soon as we're back to those chilly 70 degree temps.

Anthropologie Sparrow Cowled Sweater Dress ($158) -- there's something quite angelic about this one. I would wear it with black tights and flat black boots for a great chilly weekend look.

Shoshanna Lee Ombre Cable-Knit Sweater Dress ($395) -- it's hard to find a sweater dress with much color, so the little pop of mermaid-y blue and green is nice and quite flattering around the face.

Zara Long Sweater ($50) -- "What's wrong with being/what's wrong with being/what's wrong with being confident?" This model is feeling this sweater. It's styled to perfection with these leather leggings, and I can only assume that wearing it will make me look as effortlessly fabulous.

SET Turtleneck Sweater Dress ($425) -- a great shape in a very wearable color. It's an investment piece, but it's so classic you'll wear it for a decade or more.

Steven Alan Delevan Sweater Dress ($285) -- the short sleeves on this dress are interesting. It's counterintuitive for a cold-weather dress, but most of the offices I've worked in have been absolute saunas (NYC steam heat is no joke) so a little ventilation can be nice.

Gap Cable Knit Sweater Dress ($70) -- this looks like a nice little dress for the price. Reviews are mixed, but mostly because it seems like the original product photo included a zipper detail that isn't actually part of the dress.

Colorblock Tunic Dress ($138) -- an easy and chic work look. The colorblocking isn't too dramatic but still creates a nice shape.

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.

Wednesday Wishlist: Muppet Chic

Here's a list of things that Floridians don't need:

1. Snow shovels
2. Volumizing hair products
3. Fur coats

Guess which one I'm obsessed with right now? To be clear, it's a faux fur I'm digging -- I don't need any critter to be harmed for the sake of my looking fabulous. I spotted a couple of good ones at Forever 21 this weekend, and now I'm dreaming up all sorts of reasons I need one.

Since they're relatively inexpensive, I think a cute faux fur is a pretty smart buy. There are times when fashion should just be fun, and draping yourself in a bit of ridiculousness seems like it could be a whole lot of fun. Let's take a look at the furriest options in stores right now...

clockwise from l to r:

Kristen Blake Spotted Faux Fur Jacket ($138) -- or, how to be very chic while being very lazy. So great.

Modcloth Gallery Glamour Coat ($90) -- sometimes it's fun to make people wonder, "is she wearing her bathrobe in public?" But also kind of fun to throw on over your a simple dress or an easy weekend look.

Zara Long Furry Waistcoast ($70) -- a cool way to get a little fur action without committing to a full jacket.

Forever 21 Collarless Fur Jacket ($53) -- one of the coats that sparked my obsession, a perfect topper for your holiday party looks and an easy way to add a little drama to your Saturday night.

MANGO Leopard Faux Fur Coat ($150) -- for some ladies, a big fur coat just doesn't make enough of a statement. You know who you are. This leopard print should do the trick in turning every single head in the room.

River Island Light Pink Premium Fur Coat ($170) -- this one actually does look a bit like a skinned Muppet, in the most rock and roll way possible.

Anthropologie Blushed Faux-Fur Coat ($178) -- probably the most wearable option. This little cropped jacket could almost work as a blazer, giving you a great way to add color and texture to lots of different looks.

Wishlist Wednesday: Winter Florals

Food and fashion are two of my favorite things, and here's a working theory of mine: fall is the brunch of seasons.

Spring is dawn, new beginnings; obviously, breakfast. Summer is light, bright, and carefree: lunch. Winter is meatier, more substantive, so definitely dinner. But fall is that happy time in between -- substantial but not heavy, tasty and satisfying. And my very favorite thing about brunch is that anything goes. It's breakfast, lunch, and everything in between. You want an omelet? Yes, definitely. Lobster? OK! French toast? Sure. How about some prime rib? Yum. Don't forget the champagne…it's cool, it's brunch.

Fall fashion is the same way. You have your tweeds, turtlenecks, plaid shirts and puffy vests -- classic fall pieces. But there's quite a lot of leeway. If you're not ready to put away that floaty dress you love, throw a chunky cardigan over it. Summer sandals work when you wear them with opaque tights. And if you love a pretty print, why not florals? Specifically, winter florals.

Winter florals bring color and energy into your wardrobe. The print adds sweetness; cool tones against a darker background set just the right mood:

clockwise l to r:

Loft Autumn Blossom Flutter Dress ($90) -- quite popular among bloggers this season, the bold print and rich color palette suggest a cool 70's vibe without being overly trendy or costume-y.

Zara Printed Leather Court Shoe ($119) -- an easy pick-me-up for so many different fall looks. A simple sweater and pants become a great outfit with the right shoes.

Thakoon for DesigNation Floral High-Low Hem Blouse ($37.50) -- this top is one of the more interesting pieces in Kohl's recent designer collaboration. The fabric is elegant but the cut is casual -- a very cool look.

Yumi Kim Museum Row Maxi ($258) -- what a dress, right? Who knew you could be so sexy while being so covered up.

Vintage Floral Short Coat ($53) -- I don't know, this oddball, Grandma's couch cushion print kind of appeals to me. It's not for everyone, but it's interesting.

Bettye by Bettye Mueller Pedigree Flats ($65) -- great shoes at a great price. So much more versatile than you'd expect.

Modcloth Elegant Instruction Dress ($170) -- when you want to make your SO's eyes pop out of their head cartoon-style.

LK Bennett Marli Silk Print Top ($145) -- I like the drapey cut and the lovely watercolor effect print.

Wishlist Wednesday: Pretty in Plaid

It's fall, y'all. Let's get cozy this week and love on some plaid:

clockwise from l to r:

1. Adam Lippes x Target Crepe Blouse in Painterly Blue Plaid ($30) -- I'm pretty excited to check out the upcoming Adam Lippes collab at Target (hits stores on September 27). I expect this will not be the shit show that was Lily Pulitzer, and the plaid-themed pieces look cozy and modern. This blouse is a cool take on the traditional plaid pattern and would be perfect with ankle pants or skinny jeans for an easy, pulled together look.

2. Isabel Marant Etoile Red Plaid Wool Rusty Tote ($280) -- love this classic bag shape in a timeless print.

3. Aeropostale Plaid Woven Shirt ($30) -- I'm pretty particular about the fit of a plaid shirt. I like a slim cut shirt that skims the body but still gives you room to move. This one looks like it fits the bill, and I love the touches of blue in the pattern.

4. Keds x Kate Spade New York Triple Decker ($85) -- a great little casual sneaker, and the hot pink color is fun and unexpected.

5. Madewell Tartan Mix Scarf ($44) -- I'm planning on adding a blanket scarf in a cool black watch plaid pattern to my wardrobe. So great against basic black, navy, and camel.

6. Tory Burch Stretch Poplin Skirt ($250) -- endless outfit opportunities with this neutral plaid skirt.

7. Adam Lippes x Target Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats ($30) -- if these are moderately comfortable they are going to become my favorite go-to fall shoe.

Wishlist Wednesday: The Perfect Silhouette

The wrap dress gets a lot of love. It's simple, it's versatile, it has a nice feminine shape, and everyone loves the woman most associated with the wrap dress, Diane von Furstenberg (can I get a "YASSS Queen"?). But here's what I think: the wrap dress is overrated.

Go on, clutch those pearls.

If you're looking for a flattering, feminine dress silhouette, I'd like to make a case for the shirt dress. A classic shirt dress is super flattering. It can be demure or sexy, subtle or incredibly bold. The belted version, my personal favorite, instantly creates that sleek, feminine silhouette, but without the fit issues that a wrap dress is prone to. How many of us spend time trying to figure out how to prevent the gaping and shifting that inevitably happens with our favorite wrap dresses? Maybe you wear a camisole, maybe you add a hook or snap, maybe you just safety pin that bad boy and call it a day. If you're standing still, a wrap dress looks great. But if you need to move and bend and generally behave like a normal human being, a wrap dress can be a real bitch.

The shirt dress is a fall staple, and one of the few fall fashions that can be enjoyed in just about any climate (like, for example, sweltering Florida!). Here are some of the versions that I'm loving this season:

1. Mango Cotton Shirt Dress ($43) -- a very streamlined version available in several traditional colors, and also this pretty pale pink. This isn't the color that comes to mind when you think fall, but how great and fresh would it look with all of those autumnal shades like plum, oxblood, forest green, and navy?

2. Boden Silk Shirt Dress ($198) -- I am in LOVE with the mod feel of this print. I want to layer it up with tights, a blazer, and chunky heels for cool days, but it works just as well with bare legs and sandals if you just need to wear it right away (no judgement!).

3. Alexa Chung for AG Jeans Denim Mini Shirt Dress ($325) -- this is how the downtown girl does a shirt dress: very slim, pretty short, all denim. One of my favorites, for sure. 

4. Samantha Sung Audrey Forest Stretch Cotton Dress ($585) -- I love this print, because it is almost identical to the wallpaper I had in my childhood bedroom. If that's not enough to sell you, think about how flattering a bright, pretty print is around your face. 

5. A.P.C Shirt Dress ($325) -- the very chic, very French way to do a shirtdress. Fit is so important in this style, and you know the tailoring on this one will be impeccable. 

6. River Island Gray Check Shirt Dress ($70) -- I'll be honest, I'm not a huge fan of Buffalo check, but this gray and white version is kind of intriguing. Add a long, chunky cable knit cardigan and ankle boots for a super cozy fall look. (*linking to Polyvore because River Island's site seems to be down)

7. River Island Beige Color Block Shirt Dress ($100) -- the color blocking is cool, and the black ribbon belt gives you a very teeny waist.

8. Dorothy Perkins Black D-Ring Shirt Dress ($59) -- my favorite of the bunch. A perfectly fitted black dress is heaven, and you can't beat the price.


A few fit tips...

*I think the belted version is most flattering (particularly if you are curvy), but the boxier/drapier cuts look great if you want help creating a shape
*Watch the length -- people should not wonder if you just, in fact, belted some old button-down shirt
*A fabric with a little weight is best -- a light fabric can get too floaty and reveal the lumps and bumps, but a fabric with some heft will make sure the dress lays perfectly

Wednesday Wishlist: Going, Going, Gone

Right now your favorite stores are desperately trying to move old merch out to make room for all of the fall goodies. This is a great time to snap up super deals on some cute summer-y pieces. Maybe you still have a vacation coming up (me), maybe you still have a few weeks/months of warm weather (me), maybe you just want to have a few new things to pull out next year (sure, why not?) -- sizes are limited but most items ring in at $50 or less, so get them before they're gone.

clockwise from l to r:
J. Crew Factory Racerback Stripe Maxi ($18) -- a classic that would be perfect for layering well into the fall.

H&M Round Earrings ($5) -- simple, versatile, sparkly.

J. Crew Factory Striped Photo Collector Tee ($10) -- I love the slim cut and cool graphic -- perfect with white jeans for a casual chic summer look.

Rock, Flower, Paper Lobster Jute Tote ($20) -- the quintessential summer tote

Anthropologie Pilcro Linen Trousers ($50) -- super flattering, and quite a range of pretty watercolor shades to choose from (I'd pick up white for sure).

Boden Espadrille ($62) -- happy shoes for your warm weather adventures.

J. Crew Factory Drapey Shorts ($9) -- easy pull on shorts with a sporty vibe.

Zara Printed Camisole ($20) -- love the cheery print and drapey fit.

Wednesday Wishlist: So Bright

On loving that thing you hate...

If you were to stop me on the street to ask my opinion about neon colors (because, why wouldn't you?), my answer would always be the same: Ugh. No way. The worst. And I've been amazingly consistent about this feeling. I hated them as a child in the late 80s/early 90s, when they were literally everywhere; I hated them as an adult as they popped up in the 00s in wacky Harujuku looks. It's just one of those trends that I could immediately say "pass". But still...

Sometimes there is just something appealing about that thing you hate. Is it just me? I don't know, I've been looking for ways to freshen up some of the summer clothes that I've been wearing for months, and a little pop of neon is feeling really interesting right now. I'm talking a splash. Just a hint of eye-searing brightness. Accessories are perfect -- punchy shoes, a bright bag, or bit of bold jewelry can be just the thing to perk up your warm weather clothes as we make the long, sweaty march towards Labor Day.

I really love all of these pieces, and I'm seriously considering adding a few to my wardrobe. But what's crazy is that if you asked me how I feel about neon today I'd still say, "Ugh, hate it." Except when I love it.

from l to r:

Maisy Handbag ($133) -- I love this traditional satchel shape in an unexpected color. I think it's perfect for work in all but the most conservative of offices.

Neon Knot Bib Necklace ($22) -- inherently cool simply because it comes from Furbish, the little jewel-box of a design/decor shop run by the fabulous Jamie Meares. The mix of bright pink, blue, and yellow is almost too much, but somehow it works here.

Loren Hope Triangle Cuff in Neon Pink ($78) -- perfect if you just want to dip a toe in the neon pool. And possibly share your alle Illuminati.

Rebecca Minkoff Ginny Mesh Espadrilles ($49) -- these are on super sale and you should snatch them up. Throw them on with your bathing suit to hit the beach; just as good with white jeans and a simple top for late-night dinner and drinks.

Nada Sawaya Python Zip Top Pouch ($390) --  the perfect summer clutch. Me likey so, so much.

BaubleBar Festival Tassel Drops ($32) -- these come in a rainbow of bright colors, but the sunny yellow are my favorite.

Hello Holiday George Sandals ($15) -- easy chic sandals in the perfect Creamsicle shade of orange. 

Amrita Singh POP! Necklace ($10) -- I have this in pink and I adore it. Simple and sexy, perfect with a little tank, or perhaps peeking out of a collared shirt.

DROPS Neon Orange Square Unisex Watch ($130) -- I love a good boyfriend watch, and this bright rubber version is just fun. I'm pale all year long, but this would look amazing on with your summer tan.

Wednesday Wishlist: Swim on Sale

As the final weeks of summer slip away, this is a great time to stock up on some summer clothing essentials at super reduced prices (gotta make room for the wool!). Since I still have a warm weather vacation coming up (and I live in a year-round summer climate), I'm going to grab a few of these cute suits for a steal.

clockwise from l to r:

Old Navy Halter Swimsuit ($12) -- pretty damn sexy for Old Navy, and you can't beat the price.

J. Crew Metallic Gold French Bikini ($75) -- does your dude have a Star Wars thing? Surprise him with this (which also happens to be a perfect for a day by the pool)

Boden Knot Front Taniki ($43) -- you may find some odd separates left over in the sale section. A striped top like this would work well with just about all of solid and print bottoms you already have.

ModCloth Anchor Values Swimsuit ($27) -- a perfect mix-and-match option for the striped tankini top, and lots of other fun tops in your closet.

Kate Spade Georgica Beach Striped Bandeau ($121) -- simple and stylish.

Beth Richards Taylor One Piece ($182) -- I prefer one-piece suits, and I love how sleek and sporty this one is. Perfect for when I want to run around the beach reenacting Mariah Carey's "Honey" video.

J. Crew Ikat Print Bikini ($75)-- a great classic print that you won't soon tire of.

J. Crew Hibiscus Ruched Bandeau One Piece ($100) -- punchy print, flattering style.

Kate Spade Georgica Beach Jewels Bandeau Maillot ($121) -- a little skin, a little sparkle.

Wishlist Wednesday: Just the Tip

Black and white is my favorite color combination -- it can be bold or neutral, casual or dressy, but somehow always right. When I can't figure out to wear, I always go back to a black and white palette. This week I'm particularly drawn to solid pieces that are tipped with a hint of contrasting color. So very chic, oui?



clockwise from l to r:

J. Crew Factory Tipped Linen Blazer ($55) -- Gorgeous, timeless, perfect. This has been on my wish list for a long time and it is such a good price. Sigh.

Zara Cap Toe Ballerina Slippers ($26) -- every wardrobe needs a great pair of flats -- you'll wear these with everything.

Zara Top with Contrast Piping ($50) -- great under a suit, perfect with a pair of jeans.

H&M Fine Knit Sweater ($25) -- pretty and demure. Endless layering options.

J. Crew Collection Cashmere Tipped Polo ($228) -- I love this so much, but I have to take a moment to say this is a great example of what is wrong with J. Crew right now. Who is the audience for this lovely and extraordinarily overpriced sweater?

TKEES French Tips ($55) -- this brand is new to me, but I love this pair of simple, elegant slides.

H&M Pattern Knit Cardigan ($25) -- the subtle pattern in the knit makes this seem like a much pricier piece.

Forever 21 Contrast Trim Blouse ($17) -- a great blank canvas for your favorite necklaces.

Wednesday Wishlist: Pop of Python

I've never been a fan of animal prints. I own no leopard, no cheetah. There are no zebra stripes hiding in my closet. I don't even have one of those cute fox sweaters that everyone was crazy about a few seasons ago. So I was surprised to find that over the past few months, I've developed a fondness...for snakes.

And I'm in good company. Gwyneth Paltrow said that "python, without a doubt, is spring's standout print." Well, someone at Goop said it. Maybe because they were trying to sell a pricey python-printed dress (that I also love, of course). Anyway, my passion for a subtle but striking snake print continues to burn brightly all summer. Here are some of the pieces that have caught my eye lately:

clockwise from l to r:

DvF Abigail Jersey Wrap Dress ($300) -- OK, this might be more than a pop. A funky snake print in a bold cobalt blue color is striking without being obnoxious. A fun addition to your closet, especially if you already have a good basic black wrap dress.

DfV Suede and Python Mary Jane Heels ($300) -- It seems Diane likes a bit of python as well. Quite possibly the sexiest Mary Janes ever. Super fun peeking out from beneath a basic suit. And when I need to work out my Biba fantasies, I'd pair them with a sleek black jumpsuit and tons of smudgy eyeliner.

Topshop Faux Snake Mini Cross Body Bag ($49) -- good things come in small packages. This tiny bag will hold everyone's attention (and not much else!).

Yigal Azrouel Cuff ($298) -- even if python is a passing trend, this cuff is a classic that you'll always be glad to have in your jewelry box.

Carven Snake Print Paneled Dress ($345) -- every closet needs a perfect little waist-whittling snake print mini dress.

GUESS Python Print Classic Watch ($130) -- a playful twist on a very traditional style.

Old Navy Cross Strap Slides ($21) -- I bought these a few weeks ago and love them. An easy, chic replacement for your basic flip-flop.

Rebecca Minkoff Leo Clutch ($95) -- this would be such a wardrobe workhorse. I would also be fine with a good knockoff -- Zara, hook me up! (ETA: Target to the rescue!)

Topshop Snake Effect Makeup Bag ($6) -- cute little pouch you will use a million ways.

Wednesday Wishlist: Flat But Fierce

Have you been following the news out of the Cannes Film Festival this week? If not, here's a quick update: Naomi Watts and Lupita Nyong'o are stunning. Cate Blanchett, beyond perfection. Carol and Inside Out look amazing (for verrry different reasons). And then a weird thing happened.

A few days ago, we heard about some fantastic things that Salma Hayek and others said about women and sexism in Hollywood. Yay! And then this bit of what-the-fuckery: women are being turned away from the red carpet and film screenings for wearing flat shoes.

There are a million reasons why a woman would choose to wear flats: Maybe comfort is important. Maybe you already tower over your teeny male co-star and you're worried he'll throw a tantrum. Maybe they just look damn good.

Heels are great, but today I've got my eyes on some totally fierce and fabulous flats -- they're not all red carpet-worthy, but there are a few pretty pair that I might just bust out the next time I'm invited to attend the most glamorous film festival in the world (next year, I'm sure)...

BRIGHT

1. Duo Karin Court Shoe ($155) -- These sweet round-toe shoes have a 1-inch heel, so perhaps not technically going to get you kicked off the carpet at Cannes, but for me these are basically flats. I love the bow detail. These are a nice option if you've been eyeing classic Ferragamos but haven't saved up enough pennies just yet.

2. Tina Mandarin Orange Dip Dyed Ballet Flats ($199) -- orange is really one of my least favorite shades to wear, but I could have fun with a bright pop of it in these vibrant ballet flats.

3. a.n.a. Sicily Ballet Flats ($40) -- pink always makes me happy.

4. Zoe Flats ($179) -- yellow seems high-maintenance, but it is a surprisingly versatile color -- it mixes well with almost every color and is infinitely more fun than basic black or brown.

LOOK AT ME

1. Chiara Ferragni Lips Espadrille ($319) -- these silly glittery slip-ons would be the perfect thing to add a little fun to your Saturday-running-errands look.

2. ModCloth Chance Greeting Flats ($40) -- why not have a pair of shoes that puts you in an instant good mood?

3. ModCloth Stroke of Genius Flats ($35) -- I don't think I could pull these off, but I'd be happy to catch someone else rocking these.

4. Gap Snakeskin Flat ($25) -- these are so simple but sharp, I'm planning a million outfits in my head that would perfectly show them off.

PERFECTLY POINTY

1. Sole Society Molly Flats ($65) -- black and white stripes just the best.

2. Zara Glitter Pointed Ballet Flats ($20) -- these are a bit over the top, so I'd keep the rest of my look unfussy...maybe boyfriend jeans and a relaxed button down or a simple black shift. They come in a gold/silver combo and an icy blue ombre that Elsa would just love.

3. Loeffler Randall Quinnie Flat Pump ($300) -- just a very ladylike classic.

4. French Connection Doris Pointy Toe Flat ($110) --  want, want, want. Sofia Coppola would rock these on the red carpet and be the coolest girl in the room.

D'ORSAY

1. Halogen Kayla Pointy Toe Flat ($80) - I'm not really a huge fan of the d'orsay style, but the mix of camel and black leather in this shoe is super chic.

2. Ferragamo Prietta Jelly Flat ($255) -- probably the prettiest jelly shoes ever.

3. ModCloth Pretty Promenade Flat ($30) -- a basic little black shoe with a feminine twist.

4. Madewell Snake Spot D'Orsay Flat ($108) -- very drawn to these, even though they're not at all my typical style.

Wednesday Wishlist: Twinkle Toes

I'm a girl who likes a little sparkle, especially on my toes. Right now all I can see are pretty, glittery shoes for days. I'm going to need more room in my closet.

clockwise from top center:

Michael Kors Kayden Jelly Sandals ($69) -- I love a good jelly sandal (perfect in pink for fun summer hijinx), but this gold version is quite glamorous.

Steve Madden Aintso Sandals ($70) - simple leather band sandals are everywhere this summer. This mixed metallic pair is super versatile and interesting.

H&M Metallic Sneakers ($40) -- perfectly comfy and chic, a wonderful combination.

Belle by Siegerson Morrison Wanda Wedge ($225) -- I'm too old to mess around with cute shoes that are painful to walk in. These look so comfortable and would be sexy and sharp peeking out from under wide-leg trousers.

Fillia Cabot Clog Slides ($390) -- I've always loved the classic Dr. Scholl's exercise sandals, and these seem like a slightly more refined take on those cute-but-clunky favorites. 

Alice and Olivia Giovanna Star Booties ($270, on sale) -- these are equal parts "look at me" and "don't fuck with me". In other words, perfect.

Won Hundred Flatform Sandals ($365) -- I want to walk miles and mile and miles in these.

Wedge-Heeled Leather Sandals ($60) -- all business on the top, all party on the bottom.

Kate Spade Leonia Sandals ($198) -- espadrilles are so classic for summer, but the metallic gold leather and rattan-like cutouts add a funky twist.

Steve Madden Rundown Joggers ($109) -- these are part of the Iggy Azalea collection, which helps explain why they are absolutely ridiculous. I have no explanation as to why I absolutely love them.

Wednesday Wishlist: A Scoop of Sherbet

Last week I found the cutest summer sneakers ever, and they made me realize how much I'm craving bright, fresh summery shades right now...in particular, icy cool shades of pink and orange (preferably together -- it's my favorite color combo!). Here are a few perfect pieces that are just as refreshing and tasty as a scoop of sherbet...

clockwise from l to r:

Joe Fresh Varsity Pullover Sweater ($35) -- I don't have a Joe Fresh store near me, but I stumbled across this bold, preppy sweater on a rare walk through my local JC Penney (tip: I like to check out the mini Sephora boutiques that are located inside most JCP stores -- I find that when I redeem my VIB points there, they don't always get deducted from my account. Shhh, don't tell anyone!). Apparently JCP carries the Joe Fresh line, and the pink/orange color combo immediately caught my eye. This one is about half the price of a similar sweater that J. Crew Factory carried this spring...the only reason I didn't pull the trigger is that we are FAR from sweater season in Florida. But I'm thinking about it...

Tracy Reese Beaded Striped Shell ($398) -- I'm not sure I'm brave enough to pair this pretty top with the matching skirt (that's a whole lotta look right there), but I love the idea of it with wide leg jeans or bright colored skinny ankle pants.

Giorgio Armani Bright Ribbon Sheer Lipstick ($34) -- Giorgio Armani makes some of the best makeup on the market. The color of this lipstick is so bold, but you just know that it will be sheer and incredibly wearable.

Bar III Hematite Tone Orange and Pink Drop Earrings ($30) I don't know about you, but I'm getting kind of tired of statement necklaces -- these statement earrings would be an interesting way to perk up a simple summer look.

J. Crew 4" Chino Shorts ($45) -- J. Crew does crisp but relaxed shorts better than just about anyone, and they have lots of delicious sherbet-y sweet shades.

Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm, Mischievous ($9) -- I have never worn orange lipstick, but this sheer lip pencil seems like a safe way to give it a try.

Jasper and Jeera Azille Slides ($98) -- I love these simple, sparkly flat sandals. They'd be perfect to throw in your suitcase for your fancy European vacation, or just to dress up your summer basics for a late night ice cream run.

Boden Dip Dye Cashmere Sweater ($104) -- I always get compliments when I wear pink (especially near my face), and these soft pink shades would be flattering on a lot of different skin tones. It also just looks incredibly soft and cozy.

H&M Platform Sandals ($30) -- these are from H&M's Coachella collection, but don't hold that against them. Cute, comfy, practical -- kind of the perfect summer shoe, great for throwing on with your favorite little black or white dress.

Wishlist Wednesday: Un-Mellow Yellow

I've always loved pops of yellow when I'm decorating a room (I've salvaged many a thrift store/Craigslist find by slapping on a few coats of shocking yellow paint), but I don't have a ton of yellow in my wardrobe.

Then I saw this coat and thought, "Damn, mama needs some electric yellow duds: stat!"

Sadly, this color is sold out online (maybe a few are floating around in stores?), but I've been inspired to find some more fun options for adding some very un-mellow yellow to my life.

clockwise from l to r:

Lilly Pulitzer x Target Romper ($35) -- this happy little romper hit shelves this weekend (if you're interested, act fast -- I expect a pretty big turnout for this collection). On its own it could come across a bit juvenile, so be sure to add a pair of chic sandals and one or two pieces of good jewelry to make it a bit more sophisticated.

Uniqlo Linen Striped Sweater ($30) -- life motto: never enough stripes. I love a classic striped shirt, so this top is an easy way to incorporate a bold color without going too far outside my comfort zone.

Brooks Brothers Quilted Barn Jacket ($52) -- yellow is so classic for spring, but you may also find some deals on bright winter pieces from last season. This jacket is fun and preppy and would be great for those annoying spring days that are cold enough to require real outwear but you just can't bear to dig out your winter coat (note: this is a boys' coat, but check out the size chart: a L or XL should fit smaller ladies).

Zara Elastic Waist Trousers ($60) -- I'm loving this easy, relaxed silhouette (Old Navy and J. Crew have really similar pull on cropped pants) -- the bright color is kind of a fun styling challenge.

Gap Printed Boatneck Dress ($46) -- a pretty little dress that seems easy to throw on when you need to look great on the hottest summer nights.

Ray-Ban Liteforce Aviator Sunglasses ($180) -- if you want to dip just a toe in this trend, a pair of sunglasses is about as noncommittal as you can get. The only other yellow sunglasses I ever had were oversized gag glasses from a bar mitzvah DJ, so this traditional aviator shape seems considerably more practical.

Target Sam & Libby Toni Slide ($27) -- everyone seems to be doing a version of this simple sandal. This neon yellow pair would be amazing with relaxed summer whites.

H&M Bangle ($15) -- does this remind anyone of your high school prom corsage? (Mine was awesome, six lovely blush-colored roses). This version is a bit cooler, and you don't have to endure any awkward slow dances.

Gap Fit and Flare Sundress ($42) -- bright yellow is the perfect color for this sporty dress. Tennis anyone?

Wednesday Wishlist: The Bright Stripes

It is no secret I love a good stripe -- I have approximately one million classic striped shirts in all variations of black, white, and navy, and I frequently have to stop by myself from buying more (but this one has slightly thinner stripes! And this one has tiny buttons on the shoulder!).

Right now I'm digging a different stripe-y vibe -- bold, vibrant, and almost obnoxiously bright, these candy colored stripes are a perfect way to go screaming into summer.

(clockwise from l to r):

J. Crew Pleated Shell with Metallic Stripe ($158) -- I love this light and airy blouse with unexpected foil accents. If you're lucky enough to work in an office where you can get away with a bit of flash, this could be a fun little wardrobe workhorse.

Dash and Albert Rainbow Striped Tote ($65) -- I'm a sucker for a rainbow stripe, and I love a great roomy tote. I'm reminded of Marie Kondo's magic rule about possessions, and this one is a joy sparker for sure!

Diane von Furstenberg Rose Dress ($468) -- DvF does great dresses, and this one is no exception. Sure, it isn't your classic-wrap-dress-investment-piece-that-you'll-wear-forever, but it would be a fun buy if the right sale came along.

Mara Hoffman Romper ($168) -- I loved this gauzy rainbow print fabric in the shirtdress/beach coverup, and it works perfectly in a sweet little romper. If you're a child of the 80s, this should be a great hit of sartorial nostalgia.

Tory Burch Silk Shorts ($250) -- these crazy shorts are actually made of silk -- the knit yarn effect is just a print. Perfect with a crisp white button down and an easy pair of slides.

Boden Holiday Sandals ($68) -- I love these so much I want to order them RIGHT. NOW. Website says out of stock, but I'm hoping that just means they haven't officially come in stock as they seem like a Summer '15 item to me. They are like happy fireworks on your feet -- I have a black romper that I live in all summer and these would be absolutely darling.

Dorothy Perkins Yellow Stripe Floppy Hat ($21) -- I have never been a girl who wears a fabulous floppy hat to the beach, but I aspire to be her. This one looks perfect for keeping the sun off of my face, so maybe I need to give it a shot.