Cheap and Chic: Bold Belts

Yesterday we gushed over Alaïa's incredibly artful and elaborate corset-inspired belts.  We've found some belts with a similar aesthetic that won't be as harsh on your bank account.  While these belts by Zara are not quite as intricate, the overall look will have a similar effect.  Plus they're all under $20, so you can't go wrong!

Zara Die-Cast Elasticated Belt, $19.90

Zara Sash Belt, $19.90

Zara Elasticated Sash Belt, $19.90

Fallon Obsession: Alaïa Belts

Azzedine Alaïa is one of the most exclusive luxury labels.  His designs are extremely ornate and intricate, using only the highest quality materials.  We especially love his corset-inspired belts, which are bold and instantly make a powerful statement.  Here are some of our favorite belts from his collection.  Shop more Alaïa here!       

Loop Interlaced Belt, $1,700

Cutout Leather Waist Belt, $1,840

Studded Lace Belt, $1,955

Laser-cut Suede Waist Belt, $2,715

               Styling Tip: Pair a bold thick belt with a long skirt or dress to accentuate the waist 

               and elongate the figure.  

Spotlight On: Sachin + Babi

Last week, we had the privilege of previewing Sachin + Babi's Spring 2012 Collection.  We loved the collection as soon as we saw the images from their presentation in NY, and the collection was even better in person.  Each piece is hand made, and the beautiful detail really sets this line apart!       

Sachin + Babi was created by a company called Ankasa, which has been in the textile and embroidery industry for over 15 years.  Their expertise is evident in each piece of the collection.  We especially loved the unique mix of textures and range of vibrant colors.  There is so much variety in the line, but everything mixes and matches so well, and the fit is impeccable!  Plus, the accessories are the perfect compliment!  After only a few years in ready-to-wear, Sachin + Babi has already evolved into such a well-developed label, and we can't wait to see this up-and-coming line continue to grow!  See some of our favorite looks from the Spring 2012 Collection below!

  

Sachin + Babi Spring 2012 Collection

Splurge of the Week: Valentino Studded iPad Case

Looking for another reason to buy an iPad?  This leather Valentino case makes me want an iPad more than ever!  I love the sleek design and stud detail.  At $425, it's almost the same price as the iPad, but totally worth the splurge!   

Valentino iPad Case, $425

Stephanie Johnson Cosmetics Bags

Looking for that perfect cosmetics bag that's both stylish and functional?  Stephanie Johnson's extensive line of cosmetics cases, jewelry rolls, and travel bags are fashion-forward and amazingly affordable!  We are obsessed with the Lima Collection, a faux-python print that is available in several different colors.  To see the full line of Stephanie Johnson's cosmetics bags, click here!     

Mini Pouch, $30; Medium Flat Pouch, $30; Large Flat Pouch, $35 in Lima Natural

Mini Pouch, $30; Medium Flat Pouch, $30; Large Flat Pouch, $35 in Lima Lime

Mini Pouch, $30; Medium Flat Pouch, $30; Large Flat Pouch, $35 in Lima Pink

ML Traveler in Lima Purple, $82

Arm Candy: Gold Cuffs

Bold gold jewelry is a great way to accessorize an outfit.  We especially love the look of a unique gold cuff.  From intricate lace detail to southwestern-inspired flare, here are some of our favorite gold cuffs of the season.   

Clockwise from top left: 

Aurelie Bidermann Lace Cuff, Gold, $1,370.00

Aurelie Bidermann, Snake Cuff, $650.00

Devon Leigh, Chalcedony Drusy Cuff, $965.00 Pamela Love, Southwestern Cuff, $575.00

Sheer Perfection

There's an immediate allure when adding a touch of sheer to your ensemble.  It instantly adds a hint of "je ne sais quoi" to any look.  Whether you want to keep it subtle with a sheer sleeve accent or sport a totally sheer blouse, the end result is sophisticated and sexy.  Here are some of our favorite sheer pieces that will take your look to the next level.        

Equipment Signature Blouse, $238

Theyskens' Theory Duck Dress, $495

T by Alexander Wang Sheer Bottom Skirt, $230

Yves Saint Laurent Silk-Chiffon Scarf, $615

3.1 Phillip Lim Fine Stretch-Jersey Top, $325

Equipment Python Signature Blouse, $228

Cheap & Chic: Sparkle Necklace

A statement necklace is a great way to polish an outfit.  This crystal necklace will do just that and make you look like a million dollars.  And at under $100,  it is a fabulous find!  Wear it with jeans and a T for an effortless air of style or with a dress for a sophisticated yet chic look.

 

Cara Accessories Crystal Spike Frontal Necklace, $98

P.S.  With the holidays not far off, it is the perfect glitzy holiday accessory!

Fall Trend: Printed Maxi Skirts

The maxi skirt is a major reoccurring trend this fall.  This season, they have been popping up in beautiful prints and patterns making them the perfect option for a special occasion or an effortlessly chic day outfit.  Here are seven great options!

Just Cavalli, $620

 Raquel Allegra, $560

 Missoni, $2415

 Duro Olowu, $1730

 Etro, $1880

 A.L.C., $695

Missoni, $1080

Turkish Delight: Atelier Minyon

We recently discovered Atelier Minyon and immediately fell in love this Turkish jewelry label.  Designer Alp Sagnak creates unique collections that draw upon traditional Turkish design but are infused with a more modern twist.  Known for using mixed metals and precious stones like diamonds, black diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds, Atelier Minyon creates one-of-a-kind designs that are hand crafted.  Some of our favorite pieces include the diamond covered bullets and the raw diamond stackable rings.  We especially love this Spiderweb ring and couldn't think of a better accessory for October.   

Spiderweb Ring: Silver with .53CTS Diamonds. $2400

18K Rose Gold with .32CTS Black Diamonds, $2420; 18K White Gold Skull with 1.55CTS Diamonds, $16,500; White Gold Bullet with 1.84CTS Diamonds and 9.08CTS Black Diamonds - $26,000

Silver Puzzle Rings with .10CTS Black Diamonds, $250-400; 

18K White, Rose, and Yellow Gold Turkish Puzzle Ring, $3,400

24K Raw Diamond Stackables. Prices and CTS weight vary depending on ring. Approx $1200-3500

Visit Atelier Minyon's website for additional information or visit their flagship store in New York located at 155 Spring St., New York, NY 10012.

Magnetic Nails

Just when you thought you'd seen everything when it comes to nail polish, Nails Inc. proves there's still more to come.  Nails Inc. recently launched a new line of Magnetic Polish consisting of 3 fabulous colors!  The specially developed formula has metallic particles that create unique patterns when coming into contact with magnetic forces.  The bottle has a magnet on top that you hold over freshly painted nails to create your own wave-like design.  Watch the Sephora's instructional video here!  Nails Inc. Magnetic Polish costs $16 each and is available online and at Sephora.com. 

Magnetic Polish in Big Ben, Trafalgar Square and House of Parliament

Spot On: Leopard Accents

Animal prints are a great way to add something extra to an otherwise ordinary outfit.  While leopard print is being used for everything from dresses to denim, we love a more subtle accent of leopard. We've found some great classic leopard pieces that will last season after season.

Michael Michael Kors Leather & Calf Hair Saddle Bag, $330

J.Crew Wide Calf Hair Belt, $79.50

Alexander McQueen Leopard and Skull-Print Scarf, $475

Loeffler Randall Quinnie Flats, $295

Tory Burch City Haircalf Zip Wallet, $250

Meet Joe Fresh

We first discovered Joe Fresh from our super stylish Canadian friend Eliza and immediately fell in love with this brand.  Founded by Joe Mimran, the brand started with cosmetics in 2009, and now includes full collections for women, men, kids, toddlers, and babies.  Each season, Joe Fresh offers pieces that are affordable, stylish, and versatile.  The brand has only been  available in Canada until today with its first store opening in America in New York City with Long Island and New Jersey to follow this month!  See our favorite looks for fall below, and check out the whole collection here!

  

Images via joefresh.com

Season's Best: Coats

Investing in a new coat for fall is the easiest way to revive your wardrobe this season.  A great coat can pull together almost any look.  Try throwing on a cape for a completely effortless vibe or add a bright pop of color to stand out.  Want something a little more classic?  You can't go wrong with a slim blazer or a strong military coat in camel.  

Clockwise from top left:

H&M Wool Coat with Cape, $199

J.CREW Wool-blend Trench Coat, $350

HELMUT LANG Slim Lapel Blazer, $645

THE ROW Hamilton Wool-crepe Coat, $1,890

AUBIN & WILLS Oversized Tweed Coat, $665

THEYSKENS' THEORY Wool-blend Coat, $1,395

Designer vs. Deal: Polka Dots

Polka dots have been spotted everywhere this fall!  One of my favorite polka dot pieces of the season is this Stella McCartney little black dress (left).  We've found this more affordable dress by MANGO (right) with a similar aesthetic.    

Stella McCartney Polka Dot Lucia Dress, $2,155

MANGO Polka Dot Dress, Under $100, In Stores Only