Another fantastic fall blazer

As I'm clearly a sucker for any kind of beautiful blazer, this LaRok jacket is just next in a line of many blazers I hope to acquire this fall. This one has obvious Gossip Girl connotations (side note: the show's second season starts on September 1!), such as a metal shield brooch pinned to the lapel and stylish contrasting white trim. But the scrunched up sleeves, cropped cut, and front pockets give it a decidedly modern feel, reminding me of Serena van der Woodsen's hastily-thrown-together-yet-still-preppy looks for school. Everyone knows Blair is my fashion fave on the show, but I know I could definitely take a tip or two from Serena. After all, the show's costume designer modeled her looks after Kate Moss' style! Come fall, I'd love to wear this blazer with jeans, an untucked white shirt, and messy hair, just to give off that careless, yet oh-so-fashionable vibe we all want to achieve!

Elizabeth and James's blazer-and-vest combo

I must have an incredible aptitude for discovering amazing blazers, because yet another beautiful creation, this time by Elizabeth and James, has caught my eye. Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen have really come up with a great idea! This innovative blazer comes with a notch collar vest stitched inside and six button cuffs. Although the jacket is very menswear-inspired, the fit is carefully tailored for a woman's body, such as the flattering cutaway hem that descends into a longer back and narrow sleeves. A blend of cotton and linen, the blazer is perfect for cool summer nights and works as a layering piece for the fall. I absolutely love its sleek, trendy look--perfect for buttoning up over mini dresses or jeans for an instantly fashionable outfit!

Designer Spotlight: Sally Tseng

I've just taken notice of Sally Tseng, a Taiwan-born designer who is known for her use of sharp tailoring throughout her innovative, feminine designs. The Marion dress and Dixon blazer, pictured left, are part of Tseng's fall 2008 collection. The masculine-meets-feminine vibe comes across with this satin tuxedo blazer (love the shiny, rounded lapels!) layered over a belted cowl neck dress. And you can really see the impeccable cut of the Olivia blouse, in my favorite fire engine red color, tucked into Tripper jeans, also from the fall 2008 collection. While you can buy select pieces online, you can also try one of the dozens of boutiques that carry Tseng's line.

Alice + Olivia's tuxedo blazer

I may have outerwear on the mind, but with so many talented designers introducing their fall collections to stores, it's impossible to avoid the latest influx of gorgeous blazers, like this Alice + Olivia wool tuxedo blazer. The cream with black trim is a wonderfully sharp color contrast, and I love the unique hook-and-eye closures down the front. The stiff stand up collar seems very regal to me, making this blazer an appropriate choice for a formal event. I love the way the model is styled with Alice + Olivia's ombre tee (the gorgeous purple/fuschia colors blend well with white) and satin skinny pants, but I'm also toying with the idea of this blazer with the right LBD and strappy shoes.

Victoria's Secret preppy blazer

I never thought I'd want to buy outerwear from the Victoria's Secret Pink collection, but their new prep blazer is so Gossip Girl and prep school-inspired, I can't help but fall in love. In soft, comfy, almost PJ-like cotton, the two-button blazer comes in gray or navy with sharp contrasting trim. The decorative crest on the front pocket and double stripes on one arm make it so collegiate, and you can easily take the blazer from the bedroom (flannel PJ pants, T-shirt) to the great outdoors (dark jeans, scarf). You can't beat the price at $58...and you will absolutely love how cozy this feels!