Soldiering on

(vintage Chanel bag, American Apparel mini skirt, See by Chloe plaid top, TNA tee, Alex & Chloe sword necklace, F21 earrings, Kenneth Cole boots, Zara jacket)

(Photos by Catharine Acurso)

I bought this green army jacket from Zara years ago, so I'm thrilled that military-inspired jackets are one of this season's must-have items. This jacket has always served as a versatile layering piece for me; I've thrown it on over floral frocks, skinny jeans and tees, even little cocktail numbers when I want to dress things down. But for a cool day in Los Angeles, there's no outfit more effortlessly comfortable than this jacket layered over soft cotton basics with a hint of red plaid.

Ruffled blue

Some of the retail store bargains that have come out of this recession have been great for my wallet, though I wish it didn't have to come at the cost of everyone facing financial difficulties. I recently picked up this skintight Kova&T skirt from Kitson at a greatly reduced price, as well as this ruffled See by Chloe top on the sale racks at Saks Fifth. I love the bright azure blue color--it just perks up the whole outfit and brightens my day!

Check out my Chictopia here!