There's Something About Orange

While just about any technicolor shade is right on trend this summer, there's something about orange that I'm loving right now. Perhaps it's because orange seems just right for the increasingly warm weather. Or maybe it's just the punch of bold, bright, cheerfulness that my wardrobe needs right now. Or maybe it's got something to do with how well it pairs with other colors I love like navy blue, turquoise and white. Regardless, orange is a "must have" for me this summer.

The key to pulling off head-to-toe orange? Keep the silhouette simple and streamlined; the color is the standout here, so keep the details unfussy and accessories (try just some simple gold jewelry) to a minimum. Also, stay monochromatic if you want to keep the look feeling sophisticated and edgy as too many bold colors easily read as too young. Nude shoes are a great (and leg-lengthening) choice.

Despite my love of statement-making color, I'll confess I don't always have the hutzpah to wear head-to-toe brights myself. I all too often tend to retreat behind black, navy or gray. If you're anything like me (and I expect many of you are), then the easiest way to play with the bolds and brights found on the Spring 2011 runways is to incorporate these shades into your existing wardrobe in smaller doses, via shoes, jewelry, and handbags.

Source List:

St John Double Face Crepe Jacket and Pencil Skirt (Nordstrom; $795 and $395)

Diane Von Furstenberg Bateau Neck Dress (Nordstrom; $285)

Verbena Dress (Tory Burch; $350)

Kate Spade New York "Daycation" pouch (Nordstrom; $50)
Lanvin Grosgrain espadrilles (Net-a-porter; $595)
Elephant Belt (Kate Spade; $95)

Cara Accessories Bead & Metal Bangles (Nordstrom; $48)

Dylan Large Shoulder Bag (Linea Pelle; $415)

Tory Burch Synthetic Straw Shoulder Bag (Nordstrom; $350)

Horton Sandal (Tory Burch; $295)

Shabby-Chic Linen Ballet Flat (Banana Republic; $79)

Juicy Couture Endless Summer Stackable Rings (Nordstrom; $88/set of 3)

Spring/Summer Essentials

Although Houston enjoys moderate winters, there's just something about Spring that puts a little bounce in my step. Perhaps it's the promise of summer (though my summer vacations have long since passed) or the newly budding flowers, but a gorgeous spring day never fails to put me in a good mood. And, of course, I love spring and summer fashions: the bright colors, the perky prints, fabulous sandals and wedges...it's just so refreshing after months of grays on black.

This Spring, I'm looking to update my wardrobe with some fresh new staples that are easy wearing...and easy washing (both Baby G. and I seem to go through several wardrobe changes a day now)! The type of clothes that will transition from mommy-hood to my pretty casual office. Navy and white (especially white jeans!) are my go-to's for warmer weather, but I'll be updating the classic nautical pairing with bright accessories like those gorgeous Tory Burch Sandals (orange and hot pink are both amazing with navy) and fun prints like Kate Spade's Daycation shopper. An on-trend maxi dress in a bold print is an easy weekend staple that will keep me cool and casual without feeling schleppy. Finally, I'm longing to swap out my everyday watch for something fun, light and a little bit different, like Michael Kors' resin and rose gold watch.

Clockwise (from top left): Coral Dress (Tory Burch), Jersey Blazer (Boden), Daycation Bon Shopper (Kate Spade), Denim Pleated Trouser Short (Gap), Gold Coast Lacey wallet (Kate Spade), Stripe Sunburst Tank (J.Crew), Horton Sandals (Tory Burch), Michael Kors Show Stopper Resin Watch (Nordstrom), Sexy Boot Surplus Jeans in White (Gap), and Dorrie Skirt (J.Crew).

What pieces are you craving this Spring? Any new trends you're dying to try out?

Make Me Chic

WOW!!!WOW!!!! WOW!!!! is all I can say when I saw the shoes on this site. Excited is not the word to explain the thrill, and joy when I visited Make Me Chic website. Most all the shoes listed on the site are UNDER $30. A total bargain for those of us on a serious budget. Spring is almost here and for those of you waiting to expose you pretty little toes, and fresh pedicures, do yourselves (and your wallets) a favor by dressing your feet in these jewels of shoes. *Note: All photos from makemechic.com

{6} accessories I'm craving this Fall

{L.A.M.B., fall 2010 runway}

This fall I'm so inspired by the grown-up take on rock and roll that so many of the designers (like Gwen Stefani, pictured above) displayed on the Fall 2010 runways. It's all leather, plaid, studs and black, but with a more tailored approach that suits someone about to enter her third decade instead of her second. Sentimentally though, the trend appeals to my inner-rock child -- the adolescent who a decade ago frequented rock concerts (highlights include Smashing Pumpkins' last tour and Radiohead's OK Computer tour) -- and, of course, my perennial retreat to black whenever the temperatures drop. This season though, I'm focusing on picking up just a few key accessories to refresh and update my existing wardrobe, rather than picking up a whole lot of clothing that (frankly) I just don't need.

So without further ado, here's what I'm longing to add to my wardrobe this fall:

I was not an early adopter of the bootie trend. In fact, it's taken me months to jump on that bandwagon, and I do so now only hesitantly, with the caveat that only a fraction of the booties available on the market are flattering and/or appropriate for anything other than pants-only pairings. That said though, I love these. The cut outs, the charcoal gray patent (and I've never been able to resist patent leather shoes), the way they dip below the ankle for maximum leg-lengthening capabilities....but best of all? They're super duper comfy.

Swallows are often associated with rock-n-roll and I love how Marc Jacobs incorporated them into the hardware of this adorable cross-body bag. In college, I had a nylon cross-body bag from Kate Spade and I wore it to death -- I even had a friend memorialize me with it in a cartoon for the school paper. Since then, I've been favoring shoulder bags and satchels, but I can't deny the appeal of a hands-free bag like this for weekends antiquing, sight-seeing or even just trolling the mall.

Any girl trying to pull of a sophisticated rock-n-roll look has to have a pair of studs like these.

Love the ombré effect of this cozy sweater. Boyfriend cardigans, drapey sweaters and ponchos are all big for fall and I love their casual, comfy look for cool fall weekends. These pieces also, of course, make wonderful travel companions.

I'm quite fond of the look of multiple, messy chains all tied up into one, easy to wear piece (I'm not so great at layering on my own, I'll be honest). I particularly like this piece for its mix of metals as well as its feminine touches. It's tough, but delicate. And I love that contrast.

So while these aren't exactly "rock 'n roll," I can't help but want these graphic pieces to inject a little color and whimsy into my new, tough chic look:

Perhaps it's my height or my low blood pressure, but I've always had very cold feet. In the fall and winter, that typically means that I pad around the house (and sleep) in socks -- and the cuter those socks are, the better. Knee socks are also a great choice for boots as they avoid chafing. But if unlike me you're brave enough to don them with heels and a mini-skirt, then I say the more power to you.

I love an oversized, gauzy scarf. It's perfect for layering on cooler days and for pulling out of your purse at work or at the movies when you find yourself the victim of an overzealous a/c unit. I love the pink and gray color combo of this scarf as well as the geometric print, which has a slightly '80s vibe that's very in this season.

So what about you, what are you craving to this fall?

SHOES! SHOES! & MORE SHOES

Ok I don't know a woman alive that doesn't love shoes. Women and shoes just go together like, milk and cookies, sugar and cream. Well I have found a website that is sure to  tickle every ones foot fancy. The site is HEELS.COM. They even have cute heels that are 2 inches high, which for a girl like me who is already tall and doesn't want to look any taller, this was a total god send.  They have so many name brands to choose from, brands like Jessica Simpson, Baby Phat, BCBG, Betsey Johnson, and so much more.Click Here to go to the site http://www.heels.com/ or look on the right for the link to the website under Great Shopping Sites. Here are a few pics from there website.

Beige, but not Boring.

As we continue to slog our way through an unusually cold February, I can't help but look to the new Spring 2010 collections for some warm weather inspiration (and escapism). One huge runway trend last fall that's sure to make a splash this spring is fleshtone shoes -- and I promise, they're not nearly as unappealing as they may initially sounds In fact, shoes in nude, beige or champagne have a wonderfully flattering, leg-lengthening effect and are a fresh (and just as versatile) alternative to white shoes for spring and summer. Take a cue from classic American designers like Donna Karen and Calvin Klein and keep the overall palette subdued by pairing these with soft and romantic neutrals for an altogether ladylike look.

On the other hand, pairing these shoes with Spring's bold brights works just as well by keeping the focus on the bold outfit and grounding all that color. Beige shoes are also more day-appropriate than a metallic shoe, making them the perfect choice for the office. Despite this office-appropriateness, there's also something undeniably sexy about beige footwear -- after all, they are nude. Bottom line: any way you wear 'em, you're sure to be right on trend.

In my own quest for the perfect pick-me-up from the late-winter "blahs", I've pulled together some of my favorite beige shoes below. I'm currently torn between the Michael Kors sandals with the lucite heel and the buttery-soft suede Chloe flats in tan and blush. Be sure to let me know which your favorite is in the comments below.

Source list (from top left): 1. "Henry" by Moschino Cheap & Chic from Piperlime ($300). These would be great with a girly summer dress or casual, loose-fitting khakis and the hot pink lining is such a fun jolt of color. 2. "Randee" by Badgley Mischka from Piperlime ($215). The perfect wedding shoe and the soft gold tone is ultra-flattering. 3. "Cammie" by Kate Spade from Piperlime ($295). The ideal spring and summer office shoe in shiny patent leather. 4. Zipper Ruffle Heel from BCBG ($250). The blush hue, zipper-detailing and frills are a feminine, ultra-sexy take on the trend. 5. See by Chloe from Zappos ($249). The type of shoe you'd live in all summer long. 6. "Belize" by Kelsi Dagger from Piperlime ($135). A budget-friendly alternative to Prada's resort 2010 sandals (see Prada runway shot above). 7. "Alecia" suede platform peeptoes from J.Crew ($265). I'm not normally a fan of booties, but the cut of these are incredibly flattering. 8. Giuseppe Zanotti from Zappos ($825). I love how the large rose is butched up a bit with gold-tone studs and a wooden heel. 9. "Private" Cuff Patent Leather Sandal by Jimmy Choo from Nordstrom ($950). This bandage-style is impossible sexy. 10. "Penelope" by Maloles from Barneys ($415). As an avowed fan of lower heels, I'm so excited to see midheels and mini-wedges coming back in style. 11. Platform Floral Slingback by Prada from Neiman Marcus ($650). A sturdy, sensible heel made more fun with a cartoon-like flower. 12. "Wrap Up Heel" by Tory Burch ($325). I can't resist a gladiator sandal. 13. "Clayton" by Kors Michael Kors from Nordstrom ($225). The lucite heel and beige leather get you two big spring trends in one shoe.

Twinkle Toes

Kate Spade

Right now I can't get enough of all the sparkly flats that are popping up just in time for the holidays. Bedecked in sequins, rhinestones or even ornate broaches, these shoes are all on trend and perfect for holiday parties -- especially if you're playing hostess or know in advance there won't be much opportunity to sit down and rest your heels. Try them in shades of gray, plum or in metallics to update last season's outfit. Dress them up with a cute party dress or down with jeans and a casual top. Whatever you decide to pair them with, you're guaranteed to be the life of the party with your cute (and comfortable) twinkle toes.

Source list: 1. Belle by Sigerson Morrison Charm Ballet Flats ($225). 2. Vera Wang Lavendar Label Lisa Ballet Flats ($295). 3. Miu Miu Studded Bow Ballet Flats ($450). 4. Pour la Victoire "Janise" flat ($199). 5. Dolce & Gabbana Sequin Stripe ballerina flat ($495). 6. Banana Republic Presley Bejewled Flat ($120) 7. Kate Spade "Harper" sequin flat ($275).

Source list: 1. Chinese Laundry Good Times flats ($70). 2. Steve Madden "Kazler" flat ($59.90). 3. Jessica Simpson Belta flats ($75). 4. Jeffrey Campbell "Jewel 2" flat ($109.95). 5. Kate Spade Nicolena flat ($298). 6. Lanvin Embellished Ballet Flat ($640). 7. Juicy Couture Alleah Velvet Ballet Flats ($225).

And don't miss the Kate Spade online sample sale, going on now until Friday at midnight. It's a great opportunity to pick up some great gifts (or just a treat for yourself) at a fraction of the price.

Get Behind Me Nordstrom!

Chie Mihara "Serena" Pump ($415, now $247.90)

For Lent, I gave up shopping in all its varied and fantastic forms. So for the next few weeks, it's no shopping for clothes, accessories, home decor and -- perhaps most importantly -- absolutely no shopping for shoes. As if to test my willpower, Nordstrom has just rolled out a great shoe sale, with many of their shoes 40% off or more. Oh Nordstrom, you think you're so clever, trying to lure me in with your sales and your stylish shoes. But, while I'm sorely tempted, I'm going to stay strong. After all, I can't give up now, I'm only a week and a half in.

In light of my refusal to give into my shoe cravings, I'll have to settle for getting my fix virtually. The sale has quite a few gorgeous jewel-toned shoes that would transition beautifully from winter to spring. Besides, you don't really need another pair of black pumps now, do you? I say, if you're going to shop right now, be sure and get items that you love, that are special and that aren't like anything you already own. If I've learned anything from the current economic crisis, it's that you can get just as good a shopping buzz by buying less, but buying only what you absolutely adore.

Pour La Victoire "Florette" Flat ($195.95, now $116.90)

A sophisticated black-and-white striped bow paired with a gorgeous russet suede? You had me at "bonjour". This flat also comes in a gorgeous teal with purple bow. Tres chic.

MICHAEL Michael Kors "Annabel" Pump ($138.95, now $82.90)

At 6' I have absolutely no business wearing pumps this tall, but I can't get over the gorgeous grape suede, made more casual with the contrasting white stitching and chunky heel.

Jeffrey Campbell "Vee" Rain Boot ($54.95, now $31.90)

Bright yellow rain boots are just the thing to get you through the rainy spring ahead. The shorter bootie style is also a great nod to recent shoe trends and practical for its easy on/easy off design.

Madison Harding Patent Mary Jane ($159.95, now $94.90)

I couldn't resist including this shoe; it just makes me smile. I especially love the idea of a shoe like this as a bridal shoe. What a gorgeous and fun "something blue"!

Nanette Lepore "Flash Me" Flat ($395, now $156.90)

It's a good thing this flat is sold out in a size 10, because I'm not sure I'd be able to resist. Gray suede and stud detailing are two of my absolute favorite things.

There are tons of more great options on sale right now so be sure to click on over here and check it out! If do you partake, let me know what you scored so I can live vicariously through you!

Yes, yes. I've admitted it before, and I'll admit it again: I'm a shoe junkie....

Huaraches para Primavera

While I love all things Greco-Roman, I'm not entirely sure I can get behind the gladiator trend that's been popping up all over the place for Spring. Besides, the majority of these so-called gladiator sandals strike me as more dominatrix than Roman anyway (see Exhibit A). Instead, I think I'll head south of the border for inspiration and try some huaraches.

Huaraches (traditional Mexican sandals easily recognizable by their woven leather tops) are a big trend for spring, too -- and a much easier one to pull off. Whether you prefer a more or less literal interpretation of the trend, I've rounded up a half dozen of my favorite huarache-inspired sandals. I'm particularly attracted to each of these right now because they're so much less bare than the thong sandals or flip flops that have been dominating warm-weather shoes for years now. As a result, I think they're a sandal that could work at the office (where you should NEVER be showing up in flip flops), thereby making it easier for me to justify purchasing a pair.

1. Anya Sandal, Tory Burch ($250; also available in silver or brown). Ack!! I am so, so tempted by these....argh. Moreover, Mrs. B. appears to be leading the huarache-charge this spring; she also has a huarache-style wedge (available in black) and huarache-style high heel (in tan). In short: whatever your heel preference, Tory has you covered.

2. Paristu Sandal, Corso Como ($154.95; also available in black or tan). My favorite of the wedge options. I love that the wedge isn't ridiculously tall (I tend to feel like I'm clopping around on stilts when they're too high) and that the platform is wrapped in suede, which is a nicely luxe detail.

3. Ferran, Sam Edleman ($135; also available in navy). When I first saw these, I thought their name was "Farrah" (as in Fawcett) rather than "Ferran" -- which would work well, I think, since these shoes have a definite 70s/early 80s quality. Plus, their reasonable heel height (2.75"!) means you could walk around in them all day. Definitely a great option that works well in the office and on weekends.

4. Belle by Sigerson Morrison ($265). Obviously, these are a more subtle homage to their Mexican forefathers, but I love the yellow suede and the nice woven detail around the toes -- they'd be a great pick-me-up for basic jeans and tees. Yes, they're a bit pricey, but I think (if you pretreat the suede) you could have these for years and lately I find myself preferring to buy less, but buy (a) what I love and (b) what can last.

5. Huarache Air Sling, Cole Haan ($301.95, also available in black, silver and off white). Again, this one is a much less literal take on the trend, but I had to include a pair of Cole Haans since his "air" series are (IMHO) the most comfortable heels on the market today. Besides, who can resist the orange! Like Tory Burch, Cole Haan also offers huarache styles in super-cute wedges ($201.95) and practical (and, to be honest, slightly dowdy) flats ($171.95), as well as in an array of colors (go for the fuchsia!).

6. Damsel Sandal, DV by Dolce Vita ($69.95, also available in black and silver). These were my favorite well under $100 option and I think Dolce Vita shoes are a great bargain and very well made. These are also the most casual option, and I think they'd be really cute with shorts or a sundress.