Day to night

(J.Crew shirt, J.Crew necklace, Elizabeth & James pants, Guess boots)

Right before I went on a trip to NYC last summer, I picked up this lamé gold top made of sheer, naturally wrinkled fabric from J.Crew. I thought it was casual and cool enough to withstand New York's humid afternoons, yet dressy enough to transition to night for hitting up the Meatpacking District or so forth. I still remember the salesperson who rang me up telling me he wished his girlfriend would wear the shirt! The necklace is another one of my favorites--the type that totally transforms an outfit instantly. Five years ago I rarely shopped at J.Crew, but lately, their selection is full of cool pieces like this sherbet orange ruffled cami and boyfriend jeans that I really want to try!

Fluid modern cuffs

I recently blogged about how I'm looking for the right pair of bracelets or cuffs to wear as my signature accessory. While on the hunt for the perfect pair, I came across these modern looking Elizabeth and James bold silver cuffs. I'm such a fan of the line's clothing, so it's easy to translate that love onto the jewelry that Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen are selling under the line. I mean, take a look at this beauty! The cuff is big and bold, possessing a kind of fluid, organic quality about it, with the cut outs and curved shape. My only gripe is its price, which is a whopping $525 for mere sterling silver! We're not even talking 18k gold here. Apparently, the cuff is sold out on Revolve's website too... and here I thought we were in a recession! For now, I'll just have to admire from afar and scrounge eBay for this lovely creation.

Out & About: Feathery fun

Who: Jessica Szohr

What: Attending the Lucky Guide to Mastering Any Style launch

Where: Los Angeles, California

Wearing: An Elizabeth & James tunic with feather detail and tight black leggings

When: October 2, 2008


I just recently blogged about Gossip Girl's Jessica Szohr and how much I love her cheeky, slightly irreverent style, and she's already popped back up on my fashion radar yet again! I somehow missed her rocking this outfit at an event in early October, but I'm glad to see that she's a fan of Elizabeth & James as much as I am!

(Photo Credit: Getty Images)

Another creation from Elizabeth and James

I tried on this jacket in Neiman Marcus a few months ago, when it was still full price and I had no hope of buying it whatsoever. But now that it's on sale by about 50%, my interest is sparked yet again! Of course only the Olsen twins could conjure up this urban chic sateen jacket with six buttons, an extended front hem, and a lovely wrinkled texture. The back is cinched in with three buckled tabs and the shoulders are defined with slight ruching detail. Tip: order true to size or even a size up as this jacket--I know from first-hand experience--fits snugly.

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!

LC's Elizabeth and James LBD

Everyone's favorite reality star, Lauren Conrad of The Hills, showed up to the Intermix exclusive VH1 Rock Honors VIP party a few days ago in a great going-out dress by Elizabeth and James. The tank dress is enhanced by intricate ribbon and cutout detail, while the raw, frayed neckline and hem add an edgy twist. This LBD's silhouette may appear simple, but I love the vintage-inspired sheer netting and ribbons, which give off such a playful, feminine vibe. While Lauren accessorized with black heels, a Chanel clutch (similar to this Chanel-inspired purse), and a long chain necklace, I'm envisioning the dress with a pair of totally crazy shoes, like these fuschia Christian Louboutin wedges. I'd even add a blazer like this metalized Pencey one with a built-in vest to emphasize that funky, rock-and-roll feel!

(Photo credit to Getty Images)

Elizabeth and James Grecian tank

Depending on how it falls on your body, I'm thinking this Elizabeth and James Grecian tank could look either very silly or super trendy. A slubbed jersey tank top is draped with white chiffon, baring shoulders in a sexy, careless way. Leave it to Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen to dream up this ingenious design. Pair the top with tight jeans to balance out the loose fit and generous chiffon draping around the front. If you can pull it off, this carefree and comfortable look is perfect for that summer cruise or vacation you're planning to take.

On Sale: The Elizabeth and James Chanteuse Dress

Nothing ever feels as good as when something you've wanted for so long finally goes on sale. I've been eyeing this Elizabeth & James Chanteuse Dress, exclusively at Neiman Marcus, for a while now. The website explains that the intricate frills and ruffles of the dress were inspired by French cabaret singers. I've seen the dress in stores and the bright cerulean blue color is gorgeous, while the frayed-edge tiers down the front are a cool detail.

My only problem with this silk party frock is that it's not for every woman. The heavy shredded ruffles and short bubble hem isn't a flattering look for all body types, possibly making you appear wider or stouter. The dress obviously works well on its own, paired with pretty heels and a clutch, but I also see it with a fitted black blazer (imagine the bold black and blue combo!) and long leggings. Try the Pencey Scuba Snap Favorite Leggings--the snaps add an innovative touch to any tunic or dress!

The Elizabeth & James dress is on sale from $575 to $403.