Nanette Lepore's dark romance blouse

This ivory-colored Nanette Lepore blouse is an absolute jewel for fall. Let's start with the sweet bow tie at the neckline and the button placket trimmed in a luxurious strip of black lace. Then there's the sheer, pleated blouson sleeves, lovely lace cuffs, and cream-and-black contrast, which give the shirt such an air of dark romance. I'm thinking about wearing this underneath my new L'Wren Scott matador coat. Paired with suede black ankle boots and the right earrings (perhaps these Lauren Wolf earrings in a casting of stingray skin?), think of what a fashion statement that outfit would make!

What to wear when meeting potential in-laws

Recently, a friend of mine asked for advice on what she should wear to make a good first impression on her boyfriend's parents. Apparently, his mom is a real dragon lady--protective of her son and difficult to please. Like any proper fashionista, my friend's first thoughts were, What in the world am I going to wear to impress this woman? While brainstorming what she should wear, we nixed the idea of jeans (too casual and common), a dress (too obvious and trying too hard), and anything overly trendy. After some research, I found this Paul & Joe bonsoir blouse with all the elements necessary to impress--a demure mock turtleneck neckline, the swiss polka dot print, the blousy three quarter sleeves. But while these things hint of a sweet, docile young woman, the sheer silk fabric and canary yellow color are super posh. The keyhole and ribbon tie at the nape of the neck are the finishing touches that say--or so we hope--I may be a good girl, but I can also be sexy and snappy...so don't mess with me. To keep the look youthful and fresh, my friend decided on a pair of white pants and these LD Tuttle cage sandals, just a subtle reminder to show who's boss!

The sexy librarian blouse

The sexy librarian image is always a classic look to aim for in the workplace, putting a sultry spin on the boring separates you wear to the office. This Nili Lotan blouse is just the ticket to jump start your ladylike style. With the pointed collar and gathered sleeves, the shirt is obviously workplace-worthy; however, the slim fit and smooth ivory silk material are sophisticated, feminine touches. The pretty neck tie can be draped, tied or knotted depending on your preference, but I like it best left loose and hanging, suggesting an indiscreet rendeveous somewhere in the stacks...

Now all you need are glasses and the perfect high waisted, body hugging pencil skirt.

The humdrum gray blouse with a twist

Usually I gravitate towards bright colors and vivid patterns in my clothing, scarcely ever choosing shades of brown or gray (black being one of the few dark colors allowed in my closet). But this Barbara Bui blouse, with its satin cap sleeves, fanciful loop detail and textured silk fabric, is just the kind of neutral shade I need to complement all the bright clothes I own! The elegance of the blouse is balanced by slightly edgy cut-out loops and a loose, casual silhouette. To bring out the whimsical side of the top, I'd definitely match this with fun, but not overbearing, accessories, like this butterfly headband or bow headband.