Fashion Blog

Scallop edges were big in this collection, an interesting design element that Hannah MacGibbon (the design brains behind Chloe) kept as a main thread in almost every look.  Beautiful pastel shades of apricot, yellow, chartreuse, blue, beige and green were a refreshing treat for the eyes, and an unmistakable nod to summer.  High waisted shorts, jumpsuits, billowy blouses and coats all adorned with scalloped edges dominated the runway.  Every look had me pumped for summer!  I loved every single one, but below are my favorites.

The thing I really like about Chloe is that the designs are truly feminine, yet not overdone into a super-girly mish mash of things.  These designs are clean, simple, yet incredibly chic.  It goes to show that working with a little bit of color can go a long way.  It’s going to be hard to resist buying and wearing a one-piece jumpsuit this summer.  The trend hit hard last summer and will return again this year.  I love them!  Onesies are so easy to wear and accessorize with.  I have learned that going one size up is definitely not a bad idea, though.  This will allow it to fit baggier and not so tight around the crotch and rear…unless of course that’s the look you’re going for.

This Silence and Noise Ruffle Front Onesie totally reminds me of the looks from Chloe.  A way more scaled down, inexpensive version of course, but the thought is there.

Silence and Noise Ruffle Front Onesie: $68

And although this Kimchi Blue Strapless Tie Front Onesie is floral, the shade of pastel aqua is fitting.

Kimchi Blue Strapless Tie Front Onesie: $58

Take note of the fact that neither wedges nor heels were really seen on this runway, instead models wore beautiful sandals that laced around the ankle.  These OTBT ‘Libia’ Sandals ($77.95) have tasseled ankle ties and come in this fun shade of canary yellow.

I thought that this Nanette Lepore ‘Oracle’ Jacket would look great over either one of these onesies.  The linen blend is nice and lightweight for summertime, and the elongated shape of the jacket gives a more casual feel.  Although the price tag is steep at $425 , getting the idea for which shape of jacket to choose is good.  This would also look totally great over a tank and shorts.

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more OTBT sandals.
Discounts on Nanette Lepore clothing and Chloe clothing.

In two weekends, I’m going to Montreal! It’s going to be fantastic and wonderful, and I’m going to have to learn how to bear with the snow. Two inches fell today in Providence, the streets and sidewalks were slick with ice, and I was already grumbling about how I wish spring would just come…consider me a masochist, but I’m heading up north to Montreal for a much-needed vacation. As I look out my window and watch the snowplows rumble down the street, all I can think of is what jacket would keep me warm in Canada in February, but not feel like a polar bear?

And here are the answers I came up with:

M. Nico Insulated Women’s Coat: On sale for $499

Nanette Lepore Emperor’s New Jacket: $525

Burberry High Collar Coat: $550

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more women’s coats and jackets.
Buy Nanette Lepore jackets.

I have to admit, I didn’t even know Nanette Lepore was designing Keds and today, to add delight to discovery, I found out they’re on sale. A nice alternative to the ubiquitous flip flop, these slip ons are cute and look day-of-walking worthy. And leave it to Lepore to add a subtle sequin. Yeah, I know, who else could make a sequin subtle? I would pair these reformed sneakers with a skirt or a dress in Spring for a casual, but not too casual look. Love them.

Nanette Lepore for Keds “Nanette Mini” Slip On, $39.99 (old price= $85)

Gallery Couture is the brainchild of brothers David and Afshin Haghani, who have been bringing “good taste” to Long Island’s Gold Coast since the opening of their first shop in 1991. Now, with two stores under their belts–the Haghanis made their second retail endeavor in 2001– each season their offerings include must-have pieces by designers like Nanette Lepore, Robert Rodriguez, Elie Tahari, Rebecca Taylor and lots more.

While David Haghani is the business mind of Gallery Couture, Afshin Haghani is the buyer and the man behind the look of the boutique. Well traveled, Afshin keeps his fashion savvy well tuned with trips to Europe and Asia, where he checks out upcoming collections, cutting-edge designs and emerging trends. The super chic results of such research are seen in the fine contemporary fashions and designer clothing that grace the racks of the exclusive shop.

But you don’t have to make a trip to Long Island to shop Gallery Couture because they’re online now too. Thank goodness for technology, huh? First time customers get 10 % off on their first purchase when they type in 0808 at checkout. Oh, and I’ll pass on a tip from the Gallery Couture staff and regulars: “if you love it, buy it” because their inventory moves quickly.

Here are some of the Gallery Coutures’ favorites for the season:

M Missoni Long Cardigan, $795 Robert Rodriguez Jersey Chiffon Top, $295 Diane von Furstenberg Lluvia Dress, $295

To feast your eyes on the rest of Gallery Couture’s exciting collection, click here.

If you can handle a pleated pant, by all means snatch these babies up.  These Nanette Lepore Pinstripe Wide Leg Pants are perfect for work and after work, if you ask me.  I like the modern high-rise and the wide waistband, which is always flattering. It’s a great silhouette, and I like the way they’re paired these pants with a flowy, feminine top.  Nice!

Nanette Lepore Pinstripe Wide Leg Pants, $169.90 (was $285)

The Nordstrom Anniversary sale is to fashion lovers what the Super Bowl is to football freaks, minus the beer.  Oh, but it can be dangerous since the deals are so good and none of it’s junk.  So good.  Be responsible, but treat yourself to some designer duds because prices like this only come around once a year.

For instance, you can get this amazing Nanette Lepore Sequin Shift Dress for $239 (it goes back up to $370 after the sale)