Spotted

In LOVE with this DOTTED Look!!!

Spotted: a parade of pretty polka dots. I have been loving polka dots lately. It’s definitely one of my favorite fresh print this season (actually, all season). The polka dot is a classic pattern that is easy to mix and match, it’s also a simple way to perk up your wardrobe. My dotty love affair began when I, who was a child of two, had a fashion-forward, navy and pink polka-dotted swimsuit. Since then, I have been smitten with the dots.

Polka dots, which is a playful pattern, gives off an energetic, fresh-face vibe that's appropriate no matter how many candles you're blowing out this year. It is seen on iconic runways of DVF and Marc Jacobs. Spots are surprisingly hot. Mix them with a sheer material or a skin-baring silhouette and you'll end up with the most alluring, sexy-sweet effect. They play well with others. You can even pair them with stripes and florals. I especially love the neutral dotted print in classic combinations such as black and ivory, navy and black, or navy and white. Go bold for a dramatic, eye catching look or opt for subtle dotted details if you wish to stand out in a very chic, subtle manner. 

I especially love the dotted print in neutrals and classic combinations such as black and ivory, navy and black, or navy and white. I love seeing polka dots paired with fall colors and materials such as cashmere, tweed, leather and denim. Go bold for a dramatic, eye catching look or opt for subtle dotted details if you wish to stand out in a very chic, subtle manner. It’s the easiest of all prints to mix, which is why it’s a staple in my closet. Get dotty ladies! Work a pair of dotted flats or get sophisticated with a spotted silk blouse!

xoxo,

Kat

Natalie Cape-Toe Flat

I'm loving Fall 2012's "It" shoes. Loeffler Randall hit the nail on the head with these quirky polka dot beauties!!! These pretty Natalie cap-toe flats runs $295 and below the Tamsin pumps are now $245.

Tamsin Pump

 Lastly, my current craze is dots on jeans! Do you love the polka dot skinny jeans trend or do you LOVE the polka dot skinny jeans trend? I mean, really. It’s the best thing to happen to your legs since lycra.

Emma Stone stuns on the RED carpet in this Dress!

Effortless Chic in Dots

Dare to Flare

While my recent closet cravings include ladylike blouses, plenty of ruffles along with pleated pieces and conversational prints, one Spring trend stands out amongst the rest: Peplums! If you are unfamiliar with this term, a peplum is a short, flared strip of fabric that is attached at the waist of a jacket, dress, blouse or skirt. Peplums: waist-whittling effect.

Peplums are anything but new, even though designers such as Celine, Giambattista Valli, Jason Wu and Christian Dior paraded them down their Spring 2012 runways. The cut was popularized in the 1800s and resurfaced in the 1940s as well as the ‘80s. That said, they are back and with a vegeance! On the S/S '12 runways it became the silhouette story of the season, and the trend is still going strong.

I personally love how the trend translates on tops. Dare to flare? It’s a fun and feminine twist on your standard blouse. There’s just something so chic about their architectural yet sleek shape. I think it’s so refreshing to finally see the return of the waist after so many seasons of loose-fitting, baggy silhouettes! Peplum tops nip the natural waist and are great for masking not-so-flat stomachs. Instant tummy tuck. Not only is it super flattering, it’s a versatile style that you can easily outfit from day to night.

For skirts and dresses, I actually prefer a smaller peplum. If you have naturally wide-set hips like me, sometimes the extra fabric can make you look broader than you actually are. However, if you have a boyish figure both top and bottom peplums will work for you since they instantly create an hourglass illusion. Nevertheless, regardless of your shape, I think this is a trend most women can pull of. Just be conscious of your shape and wear what works for you-you’re either a top or a bottom peplum girl. 

 

This added ruffle adds a perfect ladylike flair to your ensemble. Slimming your waistline and accentuating your beautiful, womanly curves at the same time—what’s not to love? When choosing your perfect peplum, keep in mind there are two versions: fitted and flared. If you want to show off an hourglass figure, choose a fitted peplum. Flared, will add curves to your hips and is the perfect choice for boy-shaped bodies. 

xoxo,

Kat

Grand Prix: Equestrian-Inspired Fashion

Classic. Chic. Traditional: All words to describe equestrian style. Each Fall season we see the presence of equestrian style, especially in footwear. We expect equestrian designs from brands like Gucci and Ralph Lauren, but we are also seeing a trend from new designers becoming more inspired by the equestrian industry, riders, and most importantly the Horse. When it comes to decades of designing equestrian inspired fashions, including waist defining jackets with suede elbow patches and figure flattering pants with horsey hardware, Ralph Lauren has no equal. After seasons of chains, zippers and extraneous embellishments, handbags are having a minimalist moment. Look for refreshingly simple saddle bags that can hold all of your electronic devices that you carry from the office. History repeats, and the classic equestrian look is one that will never go out of style. 

Step lively. From tailored jackets to dressed-up jodhpurs, fall's equestrian-inspired looks will have you riding high. You don't have to own a horse or know how to ride one to get away with wearing equestrian inspired fashion. Everything from ruffled blouses, tailored coats, laced boots and riding hats are available to add a new dimension to your wardrobe. 

For my equestrian-inspired look, I'm wearing a Ralph Lauren ruffle button-up; studded, black pants from Madison Bleu; Enzo Angelini's brown suede boots and a green statement necklace for the some sparkle. 

Below are some examples of what to look for and where to find it; before you know it; you'll be trotting around town in a whole new outfit.

1. Draper Equestrian Hat at Modcloth

2. Hermes Silk Scarf

3. Quilted barn jacket at Harrods

4. Snaffle bit bracelet at Caracol Silver

5. Gold Stirrups Brooch at Harold Cox and Sons Jewellers

6. Bustle Riding Jacket at Saks Fifth Avenue

7. Roberto Cavalli Ruffle lapel blouse

8. Black Horse shoe buckle belt

9. Cole Haan saddle french purse

10. Equestrian continental wallet by Ralph Lauren

11. Brown suede stirrup belt

12. Stuart Weitzman freedom equestrian boot

13. Suede patch stretch jodhpur

14. Proenza Schouler tall riding boots

xoxo,

Kat

Being FAB

I love finding new sites that sell quirky, modern, and quality items. I've been an avid fab follower for these past few months! Fab, is an online site that is full of modern and quirky designs that has everything for everyone on your list. Looking for Christmas gifts-they have everything from cool jewelry, housewares, clothes, furniture, etc.

So be fab and check out there site! These are just some of the things that I am in love with on their site! Hurry before the sale is over!

Otto Designs understands that sometimes the demands of everyday life require you to rethink your furniture. The company specializes in ottomans, cubes, and beanbags that are cute, comfy, and totally resistant to the elements—providing a compact and colorful surface whenever (and wherever) you need it. 

Nail art is no fad. It’s a trend that’s gaining traction, and if Julep’s got anything to do with it, this medium will take over the world. See, Julep believes that nail color is where beauty and fashion bisect. These polish sets (with extras) feature vivid colors that encourage you to primp, play, and express yourself.

Impact: Chic, Every-Season Circle Scarves

Fun. Useful. Chic. These are the design philosophies behind Kansas City-based, craft-crazed company Impact. Its handmade, ideal-for-all-seasons circle scarvesmake a huge impact on your holiday gift list, while the company’s donations to charity make your purchases purposeful. Practically perfect, if you ask me!

Yedi Houseware puts a fresh and fanciful spin on timeless items—like a teacup that serves your chamomile in the shape of a heart. Just in time for cocoa season, these mugs, saucers, and more boast classic charm and modern convenience, allowing you to serve, sip, and savor the moments that really matter.

Pan Am’s collection of totes, passport covers, and carry-ons are the chic offspring of a successful airline that peaked at the start of mass air travel. Given to only first class passengers, Pan Am bags became a status symbol carried by the rich, elite, and (often) famous. Here, the company shows off its favorites.

Canning-jar-as-mug fanatics Joshua Resnikoff and Aaron Panone created Cuppow to make it easy to transform glass containers into awesome to-go cups. Their clever lid comes in several versions: the newest model fits standard jars and includes a straw hole, so it’s an innovative alternative to over-designed travel mugs.

Illustrator and lover of literature Evan Robertson is a modern-day Renaissance man. Each of the giclée prints that make up Obvious State, combines a favorite quote and one of Robertson’s stunning original illustrations. These poignant prints would make great gifts for tortured artists, English majors, and bookworms.

Tiffany Burnette, the designer behind Brooklyn-based Designhype, created a collection of sleek and modern NYC subway cuffs as an attractive accessory that helps you find your way. The line became so popular that it’s expanded to include other cities. You’re welcome, Parisians, Londoners, Milanese, and Chicagoans.

Desk accessories crafted in handsome natural hides? Check. Portraits of charming pugs? Check. Modern, linear sofas covered in velvet? Check. Side tables, chairs, and stools? Check, check, and check. This selection of wood, leather, and metal furniture—and plush throw pillows, too—makes redecorating a real delight.

Chalkboard China’s sophisticated, slate-finished tableware is an outspoken answer to the fine china usually gracing the holiday spread. Win over your hostess at the next soirée with one of these vases, glasses, or candles—each one ready to be adorned with clever tidings. Chalk it up to good conversation.

Kangol has had a long and distinguished run in the accessory business. But this hasn’t stopped the English-born-and-bred company from turning out modern and forward-thinking designs each season. Its signature caps and Parisian-inspired berets keep fashion folk young, old, and ageless clamoring for its timeless styles.

You may be surprised that cheeky Liquid Courage consists of a husband and wife, but its first designs were inspired by nuptials. Two years later (and right on time for holiday gifting), the company’s vinyl-clad flasks feature diverse and distinctive designs—all encouraging that certain someone to sip with a smile.

Gela Global believes that the kitchen is a hub of creativity. The company specializes in cutlery and cooking accessories of the highest quality, in bright colors and bold shapes designed to help you think outside the (bread) box. Each of these knife setsis a toolkit of culinary confidence for the holidays ahead.

xoxo,

Kat

Gift Guide

With Christmas around the corner, it's time to get those gifts under the tree. I love to find presents for my family and friends that are unique and reflect their personality. Today's gift guide is from fab, an online site that is full of modern, and quirky designs that make the perfect gift. It's a one stop shop for everyone on your list! Happy Thursday!

xoxo,

Kat