FALLING FOR JACKETS

While the warm weather is still lingering, it's never too early to start thinking about cool autumn days. As a true New Yorker, my wardrobe is filled with plenty of black, but I love adding a pop of color or embellishment to my jackets. I’ve been browsing for some great pieces for the upcoming season.

I've been a fan of Alice + Olivia, designed by Stacey Bendet, for over a decade, especially their pants and jackets. Recently, I stumbled upon their new peony petals bright ruby pattern - it's absolutely stunning! I'm particularly drawn to the Silas Single Breasted Blazer ($595), imagining how fabulous it would look paired with an all-black ensemble. This is the link: https://tinyurl.com/35tjxc7w 

Honestly, I could easily get carried away with this peony print and add other pieces such as the button-down blouse ($375), trousers ($395), or even one of their gorgeous dresses ($465 - $695). It's interesting that while the pattern is similar among the garments, the composition varies. For instance, the jacket is made of recycled polyester and polyester, the blouse is 100% silk and depending on the the dress, made of viscose or polyester.

Wearing clothes with “bling” is something I like to do from time to time, but I’ve yet to include wearing words and messages on my clothes. (Though at times I wear my emotions on my sleeves!) A new offering from Zadig & Voltaire is the Very Diamanté Blazer ($598) a black blazer with rhinestone embellishments. The words could be a fun conversation starter when meeting new people and I love the inverted notched lapels. This would look great with leather pants! The link is here: https://tinyurl.com/48dtfmj2

In several previous posts, I've mentioned how much I like Rag & Bone. They have a unique style that blends classic elements with a modern edge. The brand markets items from head to toe. I can confirm the Brea leather boots are comfortable and have held up for a few years!

The Emile Studded Blazer ($728) from the new fall line, available at Neiman Marcus, is another great example of the modern edge style. It's a relaxed, double-breasted black blazer with metal studded trim, making it a versatile piece that can be worn in several seasons. The link is here: https://tinyurl.com/5n7dh4c7

Dorothee Schumacher was a name I was unfamiliar with until I stumbled upon this jacket while browsing online. I later learned that Dorothee Schumacher is a global brand based in Mannheim, Germany, with collections sold in over 40 countries.

What caught my eye was their Graphic Elegance Houndstooth Plaid Jacket.($1,300).

This double-breasted jacket is not your typical houndstooth! It has an oversized fit and an asymmetric notched lapel. The link is here: https://tinyurl.com/b2nwa7md

In addition to clothes, the brand sells shoes, bags, accessories and home goods. Dorothee Schumacher should test operating a store in New York. Though the website lists a number of retailers in the area selling its clothes, I could see it fitting in the NYC retail scene.

This post included four jackets. However, it is only August, so I know as we move into autumn the list of jackets to consider will only be increasing! What types of jackets are you considering to purchase, or are you shopping in your closet?

STAND OUT IN STYLE WITH LEOPARD SHOES

In several of my posts, I’ve discussed my love for shoes, especially those that are both stylish and comfortable. I’ve been a fan of leopard accessories, especially shoes, and I’m glad to see leopard making another comeback this summer. It looks to be a theme in the months ahead. Leopard shoes can really perk up a monotone outfit, especially an all-black outfit. Below are several leopard styles to consider for your shoe line-up.

An elegant slingback that is available in two different heights

Designer Marion Parke is a podiatric surgeon and launched her luxury footwear company in 2016.

The company’s website describes how her podiatry background meshes with her shoe design: “Every style incorporates her unique insole, which is sculpted to follow the natural contour and curvature of the bottom of the foot. With an arch support, added material to support the rearfoot and ankle, as well as medical grade material for cushioning that molds to the foot over time, Marion transforms the insole of a traditional luxury dress shoe into an orthotic.” That sounds caring and comfortable!

The Marion Parke shoe shown, called the Classic Slingback is elegant. It has a pointed toe and an adjustable buckle. It is made of calf hair and nappa leather. Featuring a flattering 2.8-inch stiletto heel, this versatile shoe could become a go-to. Dress them up for a special occasion or elevate your casual outfits for a touch of effortless polish. The price is $550. The link is here: https://tinyurl.com/585nm7uw

The website shows this leopard style with a 2 inch heel that is thicker than the above mentioned pair. The price is slightly higher, $575.

A versatile pump

Aquazzura, known for luxurious footwear and the bow tie at the back collar of its pumps that are available in a range of heights and fabrications has a perfect leopard print pump. This pointed toe shoe has a 2 inch kitten heel. It looks to be the right choice for a long day, allowing for nice walking distances and then feeling fabulous while doing something special at the end of the day! The price is $850. The link is here: https://tinyurl.com/mrrftvt4

A block heel

A block heel with a square toe could be one of the most comfortable types of shoes. Typically, they eliminate toes being squeezed, and the sturdy heel is ideal for walking. Prada’s loafer pump, in calf hair with a 1 ¼ inch heel, is a great combination of support and fun fashion. The price is $1,320. The link is here: https://tinyurl.com/3exkrray

A marvelous mule

Mules are a stellar choice for summer shoes as they are stylish and comfortable in the heat. This Saint Laurent shoe, called the Barbara Mules with a low-cut vamp is made of leopard grosgrain (viscose) With a pointed toe, it has a perfect 2.2 inch kitten heel. The price is $845. The link is here: https://tinyurl.com/nhwjad3d

Do you like incorporating leopard in your wardrobe? If so, when you spot a pair of leopard shoes you like or plan to purchase, please share with me!

Step Up Your Summer Style with Burgundy Shoes

Summer shades traditionally lean towards lighter colors, including pastels, whites, and a range of vibrant hues. Classic summer palettes also include blues and the ever-versatile black.

However, fashion trends are constantly evolving, In recent months there has been a shift towards incorporating typically "fall" colors like greys and deeper reds into spring and summer collections. This trend adds a touch of sophistication and unexpectedness to warm-weather wardrobes. Given the cyclical nature of fashion, it is possible these shades were hot in previous summers, but I do not recall.

In September 2023 when Gucci’s new creative director Sabato De Sarno introduced the Spring / Summer 2024 collection, a new color collection was also introduced. The collection is called Gucci Rosso Ancora Selection.

According to the Gucci website, Gucci Rosso “… is a signature hue inspired by the elevator interior of the Savoy Hotel where Guccio Gucci worked as a porter.” It resembles a burgundy. I’ve seen it referred to as a deep black cherry and it is beautiful! The Gucci Rosso Ancora Selection includes shoes, handbags and accessories. One of my picks of this selection is the Signoria, a 1 3/4 inch kitten heel slingback with a lovely gold chain detail on the back. It is a great everyday shoe and looks like a shoe for wearing all day. The price is $1,150. The link

is here: https://tinyurl.com/huak3skc

Mules are an excellent option for summer wear. Their backless design makes them comfortable in hot weather, allowing feet to breathe, and they are convenient to slip on and off. These patent leather mules named Aurora, part of the Malone Souliers collaboration with Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini, are a stunning summer shoe with a pointed toe. They come in a bordeaux shade, have a 2.7 inch heel, and feature an instep strap for a secure fit. The price is $775. The link is here: https://tinyurl.com/yfhjs82e

If pumps are preferred during the summer and looking for a more affordable option, Reformation’s Skylar pump is a fantastic choice.

The fabrication is a crinkle patent leather and the shade is called rum raisin. Although slightly darker than the other options shown here, it still provides a rejuvenating addition to a summer shoe collection. This pointy toe shoe has about a 3.7 inch heel. Loving the heel! The price is $298. The link is here:

https://tinyurl.com/5n95yd6k

Are you including bordeaux in your summer wardrobe, or are you thinking about it?