Well Red ♦️♦️♦️

 I’m sure I’ve used this title before since I’ve rhapsodized about red a whole bunch. There are just so many puns I can come up with. This red outfit was my favorite during this most recent run of NYFW. I was crazy about the bright monochrome, large scale of each piece, and sleeveless giant coat. That coat is Margiela and actually has detachable sleeves; so cool right? None of these pieces were purchased together. They are all very different designers, yet they were spot on color wise. That alone thrilled me. I refuse to be uncomfortable or freezing while walking the streets during Fashion Week (or ever). So this look was amazing yet practical. The shoes and bag helped me accessorize with personality. All that red called for some subtle spunk elsewhere. My Elizabeth Sutton bag was the perfect homage to my fave city, and the lips on the shoes were too cute. Red is one of those bold colors that is versatile despite its strength. It works all year at any occasion, from the beach to the ballroom. If you haven’t tried bold monochrome yet I suggest you give it a shot. One color done in tone on tone is also great. I continue to find that coloring outside the lines gives me the perfect picture. I wore this red ensemble to the Burnett show which was nothing short of fabulous. The show was offsite at The Prince George Ballroom. The ballroom was decorated in red since it was Valentine’s Day and I matched perfectly.

The Tailor Mottel Kamzoil

Those of you who aren’t well versed in Fiddler on the Roof will think I’m crazy. No, Mottel Kamzoil is not an up and coming designer from Project Runway (though he might be if the show was based in Poland).

I was really feeling this menswear inspired ensemble while prepping for Fashion Week. I cried last time I got on a horse since I consider that a scary height, but I must have been in an equestrian mood. Hey, sometimes I’m feeling the Lower East Side and sometimes I’m feeling Town and Country ( I’d last three minutes tops in that type of environment but I’d look cute). I love a solid three piece suit on any gender. Ideally this kind of look would be super tailored from head to toe, really owning the Savile Row thing. None of the pieces here were bought from either the same store or year, which is proof that you don’t need to ride your polo pony over to RALPH Lauren and shell out thousands to achieve this look. My pants here did have a tapered ankle which jazzed up more expected slacks. Both work well. I loved the classic turtleneck as the base under the fitted tweed vest. I’ve had that vest for easily 15 years. Classic black blazer and a chic bun drive it all home. I love how this is clearly “a look” yet it’s still fresh, modern, and effortless. Menswear on a chick will never get old for me.

So now, Matchmaker Matchmaker, make me a match... that I can share threads with.

This Hat Though

 A few weeks ago after meeting with my teacher, Esquire, he asked me what I was doing after our session. My answer; “to buy a hat”. He was like um... ok... I had seen a wide brim gray hat with a turquoise feather that took up a significant amount of mental real estate. That’s how I know a certain item is meant for me; when I cannot stop thinking about it and all the fun we’d have together. Not remembering the name or location of the hat shop, however, can make finding said hat a challenge. But I’ve never been accused of having a lack of determination. I did remember which side of the street the shop was on, but “over there” didn’t get me far in my google search. I decided that City Hats looked similar to the window display I had in mind. The gray and turquoise wasn’t there but the vibe was the same. The clerk explained they changed the display often and that the feathers were added to pretty much any hat. Prices ranged approximately from $100 to $750. They have a fabulous Borsalino selection FYI. While “my” hat wasn’t found, the concept of the neutral wide brim with the bright feather pop was really what I was obsessed with. I love this one even more, for its tan and cream speckled base. I selected the purple and red feathers based on color and size. I tried out a bunch of feathers to settle on these. Damn, that was a fun activity!

To highlight the hat, I paired it with this denim palette. Classic cool head to toe. The hat has a 70’s rock vibe, as does the caramel colored coat with faux fur detailing. I love accessories that make me feel like an extra in the film “Almost Famous”. The bell bottom cut allows for that mood.

It’s really wonderful how one featured accessory can pop the F out of an entire look. Even if you’re not a hat chick and ready to expand your wheelhouse, choose your fave category of extras and push the envelope a little. This is all about having fun and learning what we feel comfortable getting away with.

Canadian Tuxedo

Ah, the denim on denim description. For the record, the Canadians I happen to know wear black tie to the grocery store in Montreal. I doubt that’s the norm, eh?

I love head to toe denim in different washes and moods. Denim is staggeringly versatile, and so chic when worn top to bottom. It’s a blank canvas for the rest of your look or a standout on its own. These bell bottoms which I’ve had for years and the tailored button down, paired with the beanie and pea coat, remind me of style icon Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. I once saw her entering a subway in a black shift dress, huge sunglasses, and sleek ponytail. She looked amazing and effortless. The leopard heels work great here since leopard is another neutral. I rarely wear heels, but they are a good way to dress up denim which by nature is a casual material. This Louis Vuitton scarf never fails; it always drapes beautifully in one shot. I bet you have something resembling each of these pieces in your closet. Denim is a great example of working what you got🏻🧣🥼. Layer away or leave it alone. Endless options.

Quilting 🐝

This incredible, quilted satin kimono jacket is from Urban Outfitters. Proof that even high fashion can be found almost anywhere with a discerning . Taste and style are free, as I always say. It feels like a total coup to find a fabulous piece that looks high fashion when it is actually super affordable. I love the mauve color, sleeve length, and large scale quilting here, especially paired with the much smaller quilting on this Norma Kamali ball gown skirt. Norma is a fashion unicorn in that she’s a majorly iconic designer who has been on the forefront of fashion for decades, but who prices unbelievably consumer friendly. Her stuff magically also never wrinkles.

I’m so into the voluminous silhouette of this whole look. I have always loved large scale, unless it’s one of those nutso runway designs that makes no sense ever. I think I’m going to make this one of my outfits for NYFW. I already owned each piece and was able to put together this statement look in what I think was three minutes. Hair back a must here, tailored. The priciest item are the Stella McCartney sunglasses. Their color works beautifully off the color of the jacket. Chunky military boots complete the look. I’ll always go for a heavier shoe over an obvious heel anytime. Obvious and I don’t mix that well; sorry not sorry.

Golden Girl💞🖤💞🖤

 I’m not going to lead with “Are you a Dorothy, Blanche, Rose, or Sophia?” since questions like that are asinine. But, if you’re wondering, I’m a Dorothy. There, now you can sleep at night.
 

There are a few 80’s TV shows that define my childhood. The Golden Girls is top 3. From the second that plane takes off into the sunset and someone is thanked for “being a friend”, I’m instantly transported back to Saturday nights in the navy and tan Formica entrenched den of my youth. Given that no one owned their own portable entertainment device back then, the family tv was the center of all activity. I actually miss those days when siblings sat and watched together. The separate shows in separate rooms thing is so depressing. If they’re going to watch hours of tv then at least let them bond over it.

My kids got me this rad sweatshirt for Mother’s Day several years ago. I love when they really know me like that, when they get the random details that make up my life, preferences, and interests. My oldest certainly understands my sense of humor. I believe she was the driving force behind this gift. It was super fun to take this shticky, fun present into a legitimately cute outfit. I liked the ironic contrast of the leather pants and cap to the large scale, neon sweatshirt adorned with the faces of my favorite 80’s ladies. You can’t be in a bad mood in this look. If you would be then I’d roll up a magazine, whack you over the head with it, and keep the cheesecake all to myself.
Thank you for being my friends 🖤🖤.

Wonder Lady

This sleeveless Wonder Woman top was a cute find at Century. I’ve worn it with red silk palazzo pants to Fashion Week or with denim cutoffs. It’s one of those lil pieces that just brings me joy. I love sleeveless sweatshirts in general (hey, Jersey!). I could go the obvious cheesy route here by talking about female empowerment, how we are all wonder women , yada yada. But I won’t. It’s just a top that I just really liked that was well priced and versatile. By all means, extract whatever meaning you want to. That’s the wonderful part to fashion.

One Piece Wonder🖤

 Love my new black onesie so much! It’s a leotard like top with a harem style bottom. That’s literally my dream combo. This piece is great for that at home lounge look when you want to look yummy but put together (instead of the usual ripped sweats and ancient t shirt). I have worn this to entertain, to spend the day hanging with good friends and coffee, and have gone out with it with a cool boot and chunky, off the shoulder sweater. It’s delicious comfort all in one. I personally never wear athleisure (dumbest word still) unless I’m actually working out. It annoys me to wear that stuff if it’s not for the purpose it was intended for. It reminds me that I should be exercising instead of doing whatever, which just eats at me. I also can’t stand wearing anything skintight. I do yoga in pajama bottoms from Target that I roll up. I don’t like my legs to feel like sausages in casings. However, the right loungewear is something I can most certainly get with. This piece is great on its own or as a base to layer with. That’s my favorite; when a non assuming item can be creatively turned into an outfit. This lady is always finding ways to challenge herself. Versatility doesn’t mean complicated.

Coat of Arms

I cannot say enough about the value of a solid coat. Most of my favorites have been keeping me warm for over 15 years. This black and white zig zag, double breasted, mid length works with everything. Formal, street, day, night, even black tie over a chic black dress or pantsuit. A well made, well selected, versatile coat can yum your bod for many years. It’s truly a great investment. The shape and feel of this particular style is a great, classic model to use if you’re in the market for multi purpose outerwear. Here are some versions of a longer double breasted style that you may dig. Extra points for finding that perfect loopy scarf and popping the collar with pride 🏻🧣.

$230 from Revolve

$89 from Macy’s

That Jacket Though

The way a coat fits is everything. The right cut, fit, and mood of a jacket can seriously elevate an outfit. I’ve collected tons of coats over the years so when choosing one I usually pick one that enhances what’s underneath. I feel a little off if not. I prefer it if things flow together, and if I have a big selection then why not. These statement jeans from DKNY are so cool. Cropped, cuffed, wide legged with fun butt writing (just made that a thing). If I’m even a drop bloated I can’t wear these, same goes for the cuddly crop sweater. This is one of those outfits for when I’m not retaining water (does that actually ever happen??). I love this variation on denim and a sweater. The bandana and super chunky boots lend playfulness and gravity.

Everything about this jacket complements the other pieces involved. Classic black leather moto vibe with that delicious cream Sherpa lining. A large coat wouldn’t work with the pants; it could easily read as sloppy. The pants are the statement so the top items need to show mad respect. Support and do it well while knowing your place. Hmmm... can fashion be a lesson in our own behavior?

Over It🕶

Love overalls, always have. I have several pairs that I love playing around with. These tailored black ones over my fave Isabelle Marant lace shirt look great day or night. These overalls can really be dressed up with the right shoe, top, jacket, and accessories. Here in daytime I wore them with comfy sneakers (or Doc Martens), a beanie, and this always reliable coat. The one strap off is a playful detail inspired by the 90’s. This look is just kinda fun and chill. I’ll look for any reason to wear a beanie in general. I love that this is truly comfortable but mixes up typical daytime which can start to feel too predictable and repetitive. The grommet and ribbon detailing on the hat is fun and distinguishable too. Overalls also look so cool over a turtleneck, crop top, or a bralette for nighttime. So many options, as long as you instinctively feel it looks right. And always aviators for the win.

Fireplace Ready

I think I wrote this last winter, but those pics of Mariah Carey teetering around snowy Aspen in high heeled snow boots (who even makes those??) and cleavage always made me laugh. I get wanting to look like a snow bunny but that didn’t feel like it. While I love sweaters of all shapes, colors, and sizes, I loathe being hot inside. It will ruin my mood in two seconds. I’m going to be a disaster during menopause. I recall my ex husband watching in horror as I rolled my 11 month pregnant body in the snow before having my fourth child. He was my only winter baby and those itchy maternity sweaters made me want to kill myself. It’s like wearing a wool parachute. Sweaters are so beautiful though, and definitely are perfect for yummy winter gatherings. This one has been serving me well for about a dozen years. It’s Theory and the warm color palette is seasonally on point. It’s not my current taste but I’m glad I have it. It’s important to hold onto certain items as out tastes change. It’s actually pretty cool to utilize them totally differently than you had initially done. The dark skinny jean, sweater, boot combo isn’t normally for me. It’s a solid look to photograph because many women do like to dress that way. It is also easy to put together and there’s something to be said for that. I always have a t shirt or tank underneath in case I get overheated. These Minnetonka boots I’ve also had forever. I’m not the biggest fan of fringe but I love them here. I also love these boots with a cute miniskirt or long boho dress. Dressing seasonally is certainly yummy; warmth is never wasted.

Happy Holidays 🖤

Holiday dressing is so much fun this time of year. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years can all have different feels. This Jewish gal doesn’t celebrate Christmas, but I have always loved the feels and fashion of this festive time of year. New York is just beautiful during the holiday season. Regardless of religion and tradition, Christmas lights, songs, and merriment can be universally enjoyed. I may not be the one throwing the Christmas party, but I might attend one as a guest and would def enjoy dressing for it. There are so many ways to go for holiday dressing. This year I was feeling these sexy, pinned up leggings, heels, and a fitted, embellished Moroccan jacket. I love the edgy, rock and roll pin detail mixed with the exotic richness of the velvet coat. Heels and hair up are more of a rarity for me, but both details elevated the leggings and jacket from casual to party elegance. This same outfit can be worn to work with low heeled boots or flats, even with cool black sneakers. Def take it day to night if you’re short on time and need a quick presto chang-o. Swapping out shoes and a few well placed bobby pins can shift your ensemble in mere minutes.
I cannot enjoy a party if I’m not physically comfortable. A removable jacket in case I get hot is a must. Since you’ll be taking lots of pics at said party, you may want to snap some shots while getting dressed, to see if you like how your outfit photographs. I’ve actually never done this, but it just occurred to me as I’m writing and it makes sense. The holidays are a time for joy; whatever enhances that for you is important. If practicing poses and having beautiful pictures to post matters to you then do it! Create memories, laugh, eat, dance, hug, kiss, sing, give, and share. Yes, we are supposed to do those things all year. But the holidays force us to allot that time. They remind us how important it is to stop routine and inject something special into our lives🕎🏼🕺🏽.

Fall-ing 🍁🍂🍁🍂

Seasonal changes can be an internally conflicting time. Our bodies are adjusting to new surroundings; there’s no way that what’s inside our bodies isn’t going through something too. The transition from summer to Fall is tough. As beautiful as the leaves are, as crisp as the air can be, the early darkness that begins to set in causes much sadness. The freedom of the summer is over in terms of bodily exposure, schedules, and extended sunlight. It’s a well known difficult adjustment. We are creatures of nature meant to be outdoors. The new indoor time for both adults and kids can be a major bummer. The drop in temperatures and fresh air, 6 pm feeling like 11 pm, it all feels like lockdown.

This is why it’s so crucial to embrace the sweetest of Fall fashion. As we transition internally and externally, it’s important to treat ourselves with loving care, however that means to us. For me, it can be a quiet cup of tea after yoga in the morning, simmering a hearty soup on the stove, carving out time to enjoy a book on the couch, or wearing seasonally appropriate clothing that’s warm and soothing. When we clothe our bodies in yummy fabrics and soothing color palettes, it helps to warm and relax us. Self care is both an inside and outside job. All parts of us must be handled with loving care, especially during times of change. I love this classic Fall look; richly hued skinny jeans tucked into worn boots, a warmly toned turtleneck sweater that’s not too heavy, a caramel colored fitted leather jacket, and gray wool hat. I love this sweater from Love Shack Fancy because it covers without being clunky or heavy. It warms me without burying me, especially because of the shorter sleeve length. A turtleneck doesn’t have to strangle. This one is yummy yet light. I can breathe in it, which allows for added layering, another essential cold weather styling trick. This old leather jacket looks great over pretty much anything, from a T-shirt to a button down to a boho chic dress. I’m such a hat girl, and I’ve been loving this J Crew one for several years. Worn Frye cowboy-esque boots are a staple.

This year I have learned to really pay attention to both my inner and outer worlds. The reality of the internal and external landscapes, how I’m feeling inside based on what’s actually happening outside, how I can be gentle and caring for myself when I’m feeling adrift or lonely. How change can inspire me to love myself. It’s a good mental and emotional exercise; how can what you put on your body lovingly affect what’s inside? Wear what softens you. Every choice contributes to acts of self love.

Denim Mini Moment

A classic denim mini skirt is one of the cutest, most versatile pieces ever invented. It looks adorable on both a 2 year old and a 32 year old. There are so many ways to wear it, and it freshens up the denim bottom concept. Jeans are great but anything worn too often feels stale. A denim mini can be swapped for its pantsed brother almost anytime. On a recent crisp Fall day, I pulled my 15 year old vintage Calvin Klein mini over ribbed tights (the yummy kind, not the annoying kind I loathe), an oversized chunky turtleneck, a roomy boyfriend navy coat, and mini boots. I wore that outfit again two days later, partly because I hadn’t hung it up but mostly because it was super comfy, easy Autumn chic. That skirt was purchased 15 years ago, but it was a vintage skirt from the 80’s. A classic always holds up, and the more faded it gets the better. The color palette of navy, army green, burgundy, and soft brown was a rich yet warm combination that’s perfect for this season. Fall is a wonderful time to welcome and celebrate all things rich and warm, from your sweater to your pumpkin spice whatever. This is a very easy look to recreate. I bet you have all these pieces at home already. The oversized coat works great over the large scale sweater, which in turn looks right over the mini skirt and mini boots. It’s all about balance of scale. Head to toe oversized or too small most likely won’t translate. It’s the mix of the sizes of the pieces that creates the right outcome, as well as the color cousins. Different colors but all in the same family of richness and warmth. This just might be your fave look this season. It’s a nice change from jeans/boots blah.

In Bloom

I can’t tell you how amazing I feel in this pretty floral frock. I’d have never put this on a couple years ago. It’s the first time in my life that I’m embracing so much softness, certainly in my wardrobe. I know I’ve written that before, but it really does amaze me that my clothes directly reflect an inner blooming. I still don’t like many floral prints, but the colors here are feminine without being saccharine. The cream mixed with the blush palette, wine, and purple lends both a lightness and richness. The cut is so flattering; short length, tapered waist, cute sleeves, just the right amount of ruffle, and sexy button detailing. It’s an achievement when one piece says a lot. This dress speaks to loving being a girl, which also means knowing our strengths. It’s appealing without being too revealing. It’s a relaxed approach to feeling sexy and womanly. When you are comfortable and secure in your body, your hotness need not always be shouted from the rooftops. I recently wore this with tights and mini cowboy boots, topped with a chunky sweater. Soft florals are versatile in colder seasons with the right adjustments. What’s in bloom may change, but nature is always doin’ something.

Devil in a Blue Dress

Ridiculous title considering how sweet and delicious this outfit is. This is one of my prettiest purchases from the end of the summer. I never thought I’d feel so great in this style and cut, and I’m so happy that I’ve come to feel so at home in this hippie, fairy, barefoot vibe. The Love Shack Fancy mood is always so on point; sexy, feminine, romantic, and truly effortless. Their ads are the kind regular chicks like me salivate over, wondering if I’ll ever actually look like that in real life. I have to say that the clothing does look that way in actuality. The frothy, pastel, confections have me feeling as delicious as a macaron from Laduree.

The high waist cut and ruffle straps that tend to slip down off the shoulders is a one piece wonder. It’s an instant look by itself. The hand knit, chunky cardigan with the vintage rose buttons is such a refreshing change from the denim/motorcycle jacket vibe that I’ve always relied on. This look goes best with bare feet, an added bonus for this gal. This outfit for me through the Jewish holidays for the festive meals. I felt like a princess until I ate too much challah.

Mini Skirt Black Shirt

I had zero clever title ideas but at least there’s a rhyme here? This white denim Marc Jacobs mini skirt is 16 years old at least. It always looks so fresh and of the moment, no matter what moment I’m wearing it in. There have been times it didn’t fit me but I’m glad I kept it. That’s a good lesson in not letting the shots of low self esteem that we all have dictate our impulses. If it makes me feel bad it must be banished!!!

The grommet detailing here is what makes the skirt so cool. I liked pairing it with a black button down; the menswear feel gave some balance to the sexy playfulness of the skirt. The shirt worked because the studs on it keep the thread of hardware consistent. Consistency in fashion is not a given. It’s needed on a case by case basis. But usually there is some underlying something tying in all the pieces. I’m also a fan of balancing out how much skin is revealed. It look silly, especially at 41, to parade around in skimpy pieces top to bottom. This is my personal opinion for myself, and wasn’t written to impose my beliefs on anyone else. I also dig the flare shape of the skirt; it’s fun, forgiving, and flattering. Those three F’s are a great fashion guideline✔️✔️✔️.

Tribal Fashion

Nope, not busting out the leopard and zebra prints here. Tribal is the name of a fashion company I recently collaborated with for Fall. They were lovely to work with. They generously sent me three pieces, all of which I really enjoy as separates or together, as shown here. These jeans are super comfortable. They have stretch in them so they mercifully came on effortlessly. How much does it suck to fight with your jeans??? The cute red racing stripe up the sides are a great detail. The slightly cropped distressed ankle is the perfect length and tapering. I hadn’t worn a ribbed shirt since the 90’s, and the cream top they sent me was soooo yummy. Fitted but not tight, and very soft. Def a new staple. The piece de resistance here is this oversized, super cozy sweater. It’s literally like wearing the most delicious blanket. It would look so cute over a mini dress with tights and boots, or over a tank top or turtleneck with leather pants and motorcycle boots. Sweaters like this are essential for Fall. There’s nothing yummier than perfect sweater weather and some form of pumpkin spice bullshit.

Shifting

Marc Jacobs has been one of my favorite designers for decades. He always gets it right. This vintage inspired shift is 13 years old. I haven’t worn it in years. It reminds me of Jackie O. hosting a casual bbq on the Kennedy compound. Let’s just say my casual bbq’s look... different. I have to be in a certain mood for this look, which is ok. My body had to feel a certain way for me to embrace this style and cut. There’s no way it fits the same as it did 13 years ago. That’s not a bad thing since I prefer my physique now, but of course all things change. Shapes shift. But this lil frock sho is cute. I love the button detail at the top. They’re not working buttons so they are just an embellishment. Retro sunnies are required here to keep the mood consistent. What I’m really digging here is the hair. The deep side part with a clip is a style I also haven’t worn in years. When it works it works! Def check out your wardrobes and hunt for pieces you haven’t hugged in awhile. Perhaps it’s time to reacquaint yourselves. Most likely they’ve been waiting for a little love .