SWEATER DRESSING

Christmas tree shopping in NYC. Nothing like it in the world. I mean that. Sharpen your negotiation skills before you go. It’s like buying a car…don’t ever pay the first price they quote. And maybe not even the second.

I didn’t really go tree shopping in a sweater dress and stilettos, but hey, perhaps if I had shown up like I meant business, I would have gotten a better price. These photos were actually taken at the tree stand in front of the Museum of Natural History on Columbus Avenue, and the staff couldn’t have been friendlier. Had it not been a few blocks too far from our apartment, we would have purchased from them this year.

The truth is that the holidays are full of opportunities to dress up. While there are occasions for lots of shimmer and shine, not every gathering requires us to be that gussied up. A sweater dress is a perfect blend of dressy, cozy, and somewhat casual/not trying too hard. I’ve recently rediscovered Banana Republic. I loved shopping there when I was in college, and then I went through a phase where it was hit or miss. But lately I’ve found that I can find some pretty great wardrobe staples, and with their frequent and fabulous sales, you almost can’t go wrong. This pale gray sweater dress is from Banana, and I purchased it during their Black Friday sale. It comes in multiple colors, but while I was trying it on at home, I threw it down next to this scarf, and it was almost as if the fashion gods were screaming at me. I love the ruffle cuff that adds just enough to keep the dress from being boring. The fabric falls so nicely and isn’t clingy—clingy does not work for me in a knit dress! And best of all, it’s presently on sale!

The scarf was also featured in my Holiday Gift Guide for Her and is still available. Later this week, I’m going to do a round up on my favorite scarves because they are a terrific way to accessorize AND many can be found at a reasonable price point, making them the perfect gift this holiday season.

I’ve curated a few other sweater dresses that are perfect for this holiday season and beyond. Personally, I can’t wear the minis, but if you can pull it off, I love the look with a pair of boots—over-the-knee, just under the knee, or even booties. For the sleeveless options, throw on a great blazer, a poncho, or even a duster. And sweater dresses are always great to try with a belt if the style permits. Simply click on the images below to SHOP THE LOOK for all of the dresses and the rest of my ensemble featured here.

SHOP THE LOOK

FEATURED ACCESSORIES

IT’S GONNA BE A GRAYT DAY

Charcoal isn’t just for summer barbecues anymore. While black is always a universally flattering color, sometimes we want a somewhat softer look. Charcoal gray (or even a lighter gray) is often a great solution. I swapped sweaters after my Coated Jeans post to the simple oversized gray sweater featured here. And I will happily wear it with distressed blue denim, white jeans (yes, I do white jeans in winter!), camel trousers, and the list goes on. Gray is as versatile as black.

In addition to this sweater, I’m showing you a few “grayt” pieces that I believe you’ll wear all winter long. Most of these items are accessibly priced, making them great gifts if you’re still on the hunt. Simply CLICK ON THE IMAGES below to SHOP THE LOOK.

SHOP THE LOOK

Featured Sweater

Basic V Neck Sweater

Pom Pom Hat

Blanket Scarf

Tweed Blazer

Faux Fur Jacket

Skinny Jeans

Long Cardigan

Lace Trim Cami

Hoodie

Sequin Sweater

Cable Turtleneck

COATED JEANS

A coat. It’s good for more than just warmth. It’s a fabulous way to make ordinary jeans a little snazzier (is that a word?!) You guys know I love my leather leggings, but sometimes I want a similar look in a more casual style. Enter the coated jean. I got tired of wearing blue jeans every day, so I’ve started branching out into colors and coated jeans again to make things a little more interesting. You can wear them with boots or dress them up with pumps. They’re extremely versatile, and you know that’s my thing.

I found this pair at…wait for it…Zara! Shocking, right? They sold out in many sizes during the Black Friday sale, but if you click through to the site and don’t see your size available, you can add your name to the waitlist. More are coming! They’ll email you when they’re in. Their system actually works, and I get highly coveted items all the time just after all I think all hope has been lost. They do run a little snug. I went up a size and recommend you do the same. If you simply can’t wait if your size is out of stock, I’ve included a few additional options from other brands. Nordstrom has a ton, and with their great return policy, just order a few and try.

This cropped sweater is wonderful. It’s tweed and has subtle sequins throughout. I have a very long torso, so it won’t be as cropped on most people. I went out on a limb and tried cognac boots and a belt to change things up, and I like the look versus all black. I also think it makes the entire ensemble more casual. Simply click on the product images or names to SHOP THE LOOK in the section below.

This jacket can be shopped here.

SHOP THE LOOK

Featured Coated Jeans

Raw Hem Coated Jean

Mid-Rise Super Skinny Coated

Bond Skinny Coated

Featured Tweed Sequin Sweater

Featured Suede Bootie in Chestnut Brown and Here

in Taupe Suede

Dolce Vita Suede

Splendid Cognac Bootie

Featured Cognac Leather Belt

Gold Bangle

This winter, apply two coats. And I’m not talking paint! xoxo!

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE FOR HIM

We all have special men in our lives. Whether it’s our husband, father, son, boyfriend, best friend, uncle, cousin…I know I’m missing someone…we love to love them. They bring so much joy to our worlds. And gift or no gift, they will love us simply for who we are. But knowing that, we always want to buy them something that they’ll enjoy because we live for their smiles. That said, I think it is so difficult to buy for men. One reason is that I feel like so many great gifts for men are expensive. There are a few of those on here. But I’ve also managed to find gifts that won’t break the bank, and I think they’ll be just as thrilled with those if you aren’t able to splurge for the pricey gadgets. CLICK ON THE PHOTOS OR NAMES BELOW TO SHOP.

Bose SoundTouch 300 Sound Bar

Every man loves a good sound system, so I always try to include one in my gift guides. Bose almost never fails. And this one is also really sleek and cool looking. Sort of like a sports car, and if you can’t afford one of those, this is the next best thing, right?

GoPro Hero7 Black

For the active man who wants to capture all the thrills and excitement of his life. And that of his family. So ladies, this could be a good thing for you, too.

Pat LaFrieda Urbani Truffle Burgers

This was also in my Holiday Gift Guide for Her. But let’s face it, men really enjoy grilling. Somehow it’s not like cooking to those who don’t normally cook. But these burgers take it up a notch. If you’ve never had Pat LaFrieda burgers, they’re great on their own. But O. M. G. with truffles added!

The NEAT Whiskey Glass

The unique shape of this glass allows your whiskey or bourbon drinker to forego the strong alcohol fumes of their favorite spirit and enjoy only the natural aroma they love so much.

Pedro Ximenez Sherry

This was also in my Holiday Gift Guide for Her. I love dessert wine and cordials. But every time I order it at a restaurant, they always bring it to my husband. So does that mean dessert wines are usually more for men? Regardless, this really isn’t a wine, but if a guy in your life loves Port wine, he will love this. Surprise him. Show him something new!

Floatation Therapy

Floatation Therapy is a powerful tool for relaxation, pain relief, sleep deprivation and relief after intense workouts. It also calms the mind. My friends in Northern Virginia own Ninotch, a spa with open float rooms. Give a hardworking man in your life some time to float, relax, and come back to you refreshed. And for those of you outside of the Washington, DC area, be sure to look for a spa with floatation therapy in open rooms near you. You can learn more about the therapy by clicking through here.

Kiehl’s Mighty Moisture Set

Dry skin plagues us all during Winter months, especially men. But a lot of men don’t take the time to really care for their skin. Kiehl’s Creme de Corps has always been the most hydrating formula in my mind. So I love that it’s teamed up with others in the Kiehl’s line for the coming Winter.

Portable Backgammon Set

So many men love to play backgammon. And my older son is no exception. He loves to play with his father. What a perfect gift for both and a way to keep them off of the iPad when traveling.

Light Up and Reflective Cap

No, this is not a Minions cap. It’s a smart and safe cap for those men who like to run and do other things at night. With reflectors and a removable light, it ensures he’ll be noticed.

Buck Mason Pima Tee

Every man is always in search of a great t-shirt or two. This comes in 12 colors and has received reviews as the best all around t-shirt. I think it’s worth a try.

Guardman 11-in-1 Pocket Bottle Opener and More

This 11-in-1 tool that serves as a bottle opener, can opener, screwdriver, ruler, and so much more will be the perfect gift if your guy is a Mr. Fix It!

Nomad Slim Charging Wallet

Nomad Bi-Fold Charging Wallet

These wallets will keep your busy guy all charged up without adding tons of extra bulk and weight. The iPhone charger is built right in. And they’re actually very stylish to boot.

Navy Shearling Slippers for Men

Because who needs another pair of tan or brown slippers? And I like the soles on these because it wouldn’t be the end of the world if he walked outside in them.

Quarter Zip Sweater with Leather Trim

This sweater can be worn casually with jeans with a t-shirt or collared shirt underneath, and also worn with trousers. Or layered under a blazer. Versatility is always a good thing.

Colorblock Scarf

Every man needs a good scarf to finish off a beautiful coat. And I love this one because it can complement black, gray, and camel, popular choices for men, so a safer bet for a gift.

Man’s Search for Meaning

Amazon’s Review: Psychiatrist Viktor Frankl's memoir has riveted generations of readers with its descriptions of life in Nazi death camps and its lessons for spiritual survival. Between 1942 and 1945 Frankl labored in four different camps, including Auschwitz, while his parents, brother, and pregnant wife perished. Based on his own experience and the experiences of others he treated later in his practice, Frankl argues that we cannot avoid suffering but we can choose how to cope with it, find meaning in it, and move forward with renewed purpose. He theorizes that our primary drive in life is the discovery and pursuit of what we personally find meaningful.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING to all! And remember that time with your family and friends is more important than the hundreds of Black Friday sales that have already begun the race to your wallet. Take Thursday off. Shop now or Friday. xoxo!

MAY I OFFER ANYONE A COCKTAIL (DRESS)?

It’s almost Thanksgiving. Which means it’s almost Christmas. With the holiday season upon us, it’s time for lots of festivities and time to break out the cocktail attire. I love a reason to dress up. And I love a fabulous cocktail dress, skirt, or jumpsuit that makes me feel like a million bucks, especially if it doesn’t cost that much. The good news is that the options for cocktail attire are endless and there are so many beautiful choices available right now. While I was searching for this post, I had to stop myself. And if you’re ever uncertain, a beautiful satin flared skirt, paired with a crisp white button down, with a statement necklace or earrings, will do it.

I found this beautiful dress I’m wearing and purchased it even though I had no place to go at the time. But when you see a classic that is well-priced, you find an event and show up to dazzle. This dress fits so beautifully and doesn’t look like its $69 price tag. The blue-green and black lace is beautiful over a black lining. Pair it with a sexy pair of black patent pumps, a simple black clutch, and classic stone earrings. Now, where’s the party? Simply click on the images below to SHOP THE LOOK for this fabulous find and a few other favorites.

SHOP THE LOOK

Featured Dress

Navy Lace Midi

Polka Dot Chiffon

Black Strapless

Sequins Sheath

Strapless Multi Lurex

Blush Halter Sheath

Blush Pleated

Red Lace

Red Lace Mini

Sequins Jumpsuit

Deep V Spaghetti Sheath

Grey Tulle & Lace

Silver Knot Front

FAUX FUR FRENZY

It’s getting cold outside. And when it’s cold, we tend to bundle up, which sometimes leaves us feeling a little less fun and sexy for a night out. But do not despair because for every problem there is a solution. And faux fur (or even real fur if you’re not against it) is the answer. The right coat takes you from day to night seamlessly, and that is certainly possible with this trend, which has had some staying power for the last few years. But if you don’t believe it’s here to stay, there’s more good news. There are many accessible options that look more expensive than their price tag.

This little number I’m wearing is about four years old, and it’s from H&M. I can’t tell you how many compliments I receive each time I wear it. And lucky for you, H&M keeps doing their thing, and there are a few wonderful and affordable options this season.

When I was a kid, I thought fur was for old women. Perhaps that’s because my grandmother had a full length mink coat. But today, it’s fun and sexy and cool. Today’s shorter options can be worn over a cocktail dress, with jeans, with trousers (as I’m wearing), with leather pants, with a skirt…did I miss anything? So while it may seem that this wardrobe item is only for a few special occasions, you’ll soon wonder how you ever lived without it and be reaching for it every time you start to walk out the door.

As you’ll see, there are SO many wonderful options. Those that are faux are marked, and those that are genuine fur (or feathers) are also marked. Neutral is always a safe bet, but you’d be surprised how often you can wear one with color. Simply click on the images to SHOP THE LOOK. And I’ve also provided links to the rest of my outfit worn on this perfect fall day in Central Park.

SHOP THE LOOK

White Quilted Faux

Faux Fur Shag

3/4 Sleeve Faux

Champagne Faux

Cream Quilted Faux

Short Gold Faux

Zip Caramel Faux

Lamb Tan

Rose Bolero

Tawny Rabbit

Mauve Quilted Faux

Blush Faux

Pale Pink Faux

Pink Cropped Faux

Lavender Faux

Mongolian Lamb Grey

Feather Bolero

Rabbit Grey

Grey Quilted Faux

Faux Grey

Ash Rabbit

Faux Caramel

Caramel Faux

Chevron Rabbit

Cropped Rabbit Boysenberry

Fox Rabbit Wine

Faux Oxblood

Faux Olive Green

Navy Fur

Teal Faux

Black Faux

Leopard Print Faux

NOT SO BASIC BLACK SWEATER

There are some days when I want to show up a little better than a jeans and t-shirt look, but I don’t always have it in me to make a huge effort. Whenever that happens, a black sweater with a little something-soemthing is always a good idea. I love black because it can be casual or dressy, depending on what you pair it with. Black also goes with almost any jewelry and accessories. And most people agree that it’s slimming.

This sweater I’m wearing was actually purchased last year, but due to popular demand, it’s back in stock this season. And it’s at an affordable price point. It’s from a company called VICI, and they have a ton of well-priced stylish clothing options. If you subscribe to receive VICI’s emails, they’lll send you a daily code for 20% off and occasionally they run free shipping. They debut new collections every week or so, and they usually go live at 12 midnight PST. If you’re lucky enough to live in the San Francisco area, they have two stores you can visit across the bay.

In addition to the sweater I’m wearing, I’ve also posted a few others that I thought jazzed it up just enough to be anything but boring and basic black. Simply CLICK ON THE IMAGES below to SHOP THE LOOK.

SHOP THE LOOK

Featured Sweater

Off Shoulder Blouson

Neck Wrap Sweatshirt

Cut Out

Off Shoulder

Black Poncho/Cardigan

Tie Wrist

Blouson Sleeve V-Neck

PUMP IT UP

a great pair of pumps jazzing up black & white

I’m going to begin this post by saying, “Sorry, I’m not sorry.” If there is one thing I believe in splurging on, it’s a good pair of shoes that you can wear for years. And unfortunately, those that are made well and can stand the test of time in durability and style don’t usually come cheaply. There is the occasional exception, and I have a few. But if you look in my closet, I have nice shoes. And I’ve had them for years. Seriously. Many a decade or more. You can’t get much more classic or more sexy than a well-made pump.

Shoes are an investment. I have one rule for coats and shoes that will remain in style beyond this season’s trends: Buy the best you can afford. Why? Because they are one of the first things everyone sees. They are versatile and can be worn with many things. And they can elevate a look that is built from lower priced (and sometimes even a lower quality) pieces. They can last for years. If you care for them—get them reheeled and resoled—you’ll have them for a decade or longer, as well.

Every woman needs a classic black pump. A nude. And one that is a little snazzier to dress up an otherwise boring outfit—a brighter color like pink or electric blue, animal print, an embellished style, or one with a sexy touch like a sheer component or sexy slingback or strap.

Pumps need to fit well and shouldn’t be terribly uncomfortable. Notice I didn’t say they should be “comfortable.” Believe it or not, when I used to work in Beauty, I wore stilettos every day. I’d wear them from home on my walk to the subway, from the subway to the bus stop, and from the bus stop to my office. And when I stopped working and started wearing flats more, my feet actually hurt in flats. My point is that your feet get used to whatever they’re in the most. So if you don’t wear heels a lot, they aren’t going to feel like sneakers, and you may not want to sprint in them. So just make sure you can walk a decent distance and can stand in them for a while.

A few of my favorite brands that I can personally vouch for are Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo, Aquazzura, Manolo Blahnik, and Gianvitto Rossi. They make the classics, they’re made to last, are as sexy as they come, yet can add the right amount of pizzazz to make them a show-stopper without being too trendy. I’ll end on a hopeful note…there is a newer brand on the scene called Schutz. I purchased my first pair over the summer, and I love them. Many of their styles are high on style but more reasonable on price. I’ve featured a pair here that is similar to the very popular “plexi pump” by Gianvitto Rossi.

If you can only splurge on one pair, make it black or nude/camel. And I’d go with patent leather. I promise you will find that you can wear them with everything. Dresses, jeans, trousers. Trust me. Simply click on the images below to shop.

Black Patent

Nude Round Toe Patent

Blush Patent Slingback

Neutral Suede

Tan Suede

Nude Patent Plexi

Animal Print

Pom Pom

Navy Suede

Pink Suede

Two Tone Slingback

Cabaret Pink Suede Slingback

Manolo Hangisi Black Satin

Blush Plexi

THE PUFFY SLEEVE

Does anyone remember the Seinfeld episode when Jerry “committed” to wearing the puffy shirt on TV because he just nodded at everything the low-talker said? If not, I’ve inserted a video refresher below for your entertainment. Oh, how I miss looking forward to this show when every episode was new and anticipating the hilarious ridiculousness of it all!

But the puffy sleeves I’m loving are not at all like those from our favorite 90’s sitcom. The puffy sleeves that I adore were from Valentino’s Spring 2019 Ready-to-Wear Collection. A few of my favorites are featured here.

Unfortunately, most of us can’t afford Valentino. But fortunately for you, I have an eye for affordable fashion. This beauty of a dress I’m wearing was actually purchased before Valentino’s collection debuted. It’s from Target. YES! Time to do a happy dance! It is so fabulous, and with a $34.99 price tag, it just got a lot more fabulous, didn’t it?

I first wore this dress in early September to a friend’s 40th birthday party. It’s 100% cotton and fits beautifully! As I told you last week, we do, indeed, ride the subway all gussied up. Proof is here. My husband thought it was a fun contrast to be all dressed up and waiting on the subway platform, so he snapped a photo. I’ll also add that at least five people stopped to tell me what a gorgeous dress it was. And no one believed me when I told them where I purchased it. (I was really proud of that part!) I’ve also featured a photo with my husband alongside me at the party. I regret not posting the dress sooner, as it’s now sold out online, BUT if you enter your zip code into the page on target.com, it will provide stores in your areas that still have it in stock. And there are several around NYC. Trust me, it’s worth the trip. And let’s face it, we all look for excuses to go to Target. And none of us ever leave with only the things on our list.

You can find this dress and its store locator below by clicking on the image under the “Shop the Look” heading, along with the jewelry and accessories similar to those I wore that night. My bag is old, but there are so many to be found online, and I’ve linked a few. My pumps are Prada and one of my favorites in my collection, but they are 12 years old! You could also wear nude or black, but I happen to like the purple with it, so I’ve listed a pump alternative. Interestingly enough, this outfit was inspired by pillows used in a beautiful room designed by my favorite interior designer, Paloma Contreras.

For your entertainment…

SHOP THE LOOK

LET ME BE YOUR TEDDY BEAR (COAT)

I’m a New Yorker. Not a native New Yorker. I actually grew up in a very rural area about 25 miles south of Washington, DC. We didn’t even have a real shopping mall in our county until I was 15 years old. And although I thought I was stylish and fashionable, even long before adolescence, I doubt anyone in the NYC fashion scene would have agreed, especially if they’d seen my hairstyle. I could post photos, but I won’t. I’d lose all credibility.

As a New Yorker, I do lots of things that only New Yorkers do, and I think in a way that only New Yorkers think (about certain things), for better or for worse. One of the things I do is take the subway. No, it’s not as glamorous as a car service, but most of the time it’s faster. And it’s always less expensive. My kids actually LOVE the subway. Did you know there’s a ghost station between 86th Street and 96th Street on the 1 train? And have you ever witnessed the entertainment at major stations like Times Square and Grand Central? That said, the subway is dirty. It’s gritty. So we thought it would be fun to take photos that show the grittiness of the NYC subway system in contrast to “fancy” leather leggings and Louboutin pumps. And yes, I do actually ride the subway in outfits like this one.

A great pair of leather leggings and black patent leather pumps are classic and very New York. But they’re also great to pair with trendy items. The Teddy Bear Coat was popular last winter, and I really thought it was in and out. But alas, it is sticking around this Fall and Winter. While you can certainly spend a lot on one of these coats, I wouldn’t recommend it. I love the one I’m wearing in these truly New York scenes. (Never mind that I might have been arrested for interfering in official police business in one of them!) But I’m also giving you leads on a few more because, let’s face it, not all bodies were created equally, AND we all have a style of our own. Click on the photos below to Shop the Look here and other Teddy Bear Coats that are available (and most are affordable).

SHOP THE LOOK

Featured Coat

Sherpa Coat

Knee Faux Fur

Belted Wrap Coat

Rust Long

Double Breasted

Off-White Car Coat

Taupe Metallic Button

Pea Coat

Cropped Faux Fur

Cropped Zip

Bomber

wearing only the gold