Words of Wisdom

While flipping through Elements of Style Blog this evening, I came across this manifesto and felt so empowered by the words I needed to share it with all of you. Read it, embrace it, live it!

Ginger+Liz Fall 2010 Collection Launch Party

I had the pleasure of attending the launch party for Ginger+Liz's Fall 2010 color collection, held in the Backroom Hand and Foot Spa at the Carol's Daughter flagship store in Harlem.

Guests in the Backroom Hand and Foot Spa, including Sarah of StyleIT (seated lower left.)

Ginger+Liz's Fall collection consists of Tuck Me In, Ivy league, Blowin' Money Fast and Not On The First Date. Carol's Daughter staff was on hand to provide mini-manicures and the chance to text the colors. The popular shade was definitely Blowin' Money Fast, my new favorite color.

Ginger+Liz nail lacquer on display

My nails post-manicure in Blowin Money Fast

Cocktails were provided by Ciroc Vodka and Bites to Savor provided passed hors d'oeuvres (the red velvet cake lollipops were delicious.) The staff at Carol's Daughter was so sweet and helpful. I'm dying to go back and try the Rose Petal Mani Pedi Ritual (a steal at $48.)

Me, Misha of TheFabChick.com, Danielle of TheStyleandBeautyDoctor.com and Annika of TheFrisky.com

More than an opportunity to be pampered, the party offered a great networking opportunity for the bloggers and beauty editors/writers in attendance. I got to hang with my girl Misha from TheFabChick.com and had the pleasure of meeting Christina Brown of LoveBrownSugar, Danielle of The Style and Beauty Doctor and Annika from TheFrisky.com.

The event gift bag with Ginger+Liz "Ivy League" & nail kit and Carol's Daughter Cuticle Oil

Many thanks to Ginger+Liz for the invitation. I'll be rocking their nail colors for the rest of the season!

2010 Fashion's Night Out Adventures

Last night's Fashion's Night Out festivities have the fashion world, and New York City as whole, all abuzz with stories of wild parties, celeb sightings and street fashion only New Yorkers could pull off.

NYC Media's Kela Walker was at the FNO: The Show runway kickoff on Tuesday and was able to capture the grandeur that this year's event was serving up:



My best friend and I met up in the Meatpacking District to begin our adventure. First stop was the Tracy Reese boutique where they were hosting a dance-off. Champagne and coconut water flowed as guests were invited to dance in the windows. Sally Hansen reps were on hand to provide manicures to those willing to wait 30 minutes for their turn.

The front window of the Tracy Reese boutique

Sally Hansen manicures at Tracy Reese

Guests dancing in the windows at Tracy Reese (the woman on the left is pregnant!)

New York Fashion Week's New Home at Lincoln Center

As the curtains closed on Bryant Park as long time home to New York Fashion Week back in February, fashion fans the world over were curious to see what the new Lincoln Center location would have to offer. As day two of NYFW comes to a close the reviews are in and fashionistas are thrilled with the new space.

The entrance to the tents, created to mirror the facade of the Metropolitan Opera House.

I keep using the term grande to describe Lincoln Center and I mean it both in size and impression. Lincoln Center is one of the most beautiful spaces in the city, created to showcase art in all its splendor. From a functional standpoint there's a third more space to the tents this year with more lobby space and courtyard lounges as waiting areas.

Mercedes Benz SS 2011 Fashion Week Livestream Calendar

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week kicked off yesterday at its new home in Lincoln Center, where 98 designers will showcase their Spring/Summer 2011 collections. While fashion week will forever be associated with Bryant Park I've grown immediately fond of its new grande space, thanks in part to the magical setting it offered for Vogue's Fashion Night Out show. Was I seated in the audience with other fashionistas? No ... I watched with thousands of others as it streamed live on CBS.com/FNO Tuesday night.

As the elitist walls built around the fashion industry crumble, more and more designers are opening the doors and allowing fashion fans everywhere the opportunity to take part in the runway experience. You miss out on the excitement of physically being in the tents, but you're actually getting a much better view of the show. I'll be viewing most of the SS 2011 shows in this manner and it's easy for you to join in the fun from your own laptop, desktop, iPad, iPhone, etc.

Fashion's Night Out Must List

If you're anything like me, you've planned and replanned your outfit for Fashion's Night Out but woke up this morning thinking "FNO is TOMORROW and I have no idea where I'm going!!" Fear not, after my morning epiphany I made sure to head over to the website and create my own personal itinerary. Last year I didn't venture outside of the Meatpacking District, but I will tempt fate this year starting in Soho and ending at Bergdorfs!

Here's my guidebook to all things fun and fabulous for FNO:




Bergdorf Goodman
754 Fifth Ave at 58th Street New York NY 10019

Appearances By: Jason Wu, Mary J. Blige, Nicole Richie, Simon Spurr, Thom Browne, Tom Ford, Victoria Beckham.
6-11pm: 5F Photo Studio.
6pm: Face-Off Makeup Artist Competition with judges BryanBoy, Catherine Malandrino, Hamish Bowles & Trish McEvoy.
7pm: BG Best In Show: Designer Dogs Take The Catwalk! MC Robert Verdi. Judges Kelly Rutherford, Monique Lhuillier & Tinsley Mortimer.
8pm: Play With The Pros With athletes Georgina Bloomberg, Joey Cheek, Sarah Hughes & Tim Morehouse.
9-10pm: Karaoke! Special host Patrick McMullan.


Diane von Furstenberg
874 Washington Street New York NY 10014

Diane von Furstenberg takes Fashion’s Night Out to the digital universe with The DVF and HP Experience Lounge, a multimedia event that will transform the DVF boutique and gallery into an interactive fashion playground. Hosted by Refinery29.com, the evening will feature cutting-edge fashion installations, complete with a ‘Fall Favorites’ photo booth featuring DVF items curated by Refinery29.com editors on display for shoppers to utilize when browsing their most-desired DVF looks. Photos can be printed, posted to Facebook or streamed live into the lounge on social feed monitors, allowing guests to engage with the fashion community and interact with DVF. Computer terminals and touch screens will feature up-to-the-minute news about FNO from around the city, and the world!

Style Moments | Dianna Agron in Carolina Herrera

There has been tons of buzz around best (and worst) dressed at the 62nd Annual Emmy Awards, which took place this past Sunday. You can view coverage of all the gowns over at Red Carpet Fashion Awards, I just wanted to focus on one ...

When Dianna Agron appeared on screen, being interviewed by Giuliana Rancic on E!, I thought her hair and makeup were beautifully done. As they panned back to reveal the pink tiered lace Carolina Herrera Resort 2011 confection she was wearing my heart skipped a beat ... she was STUNNING. It was as if that dress was made for her. It complimented her in every way - color, fit, style - and she was appropriately accessorized with understated jewelry.

No, this wasn't a major fashion statement, but who the heck cares ... she looked like every girl's dream.

Photo courtesy of InStyle.com /Jason Merritt/Getty

DKNY Fall 2010 Must Haves

I'm a huge fan of Donna Karan and the design work that she does. In my opinion there is no one that can flatter a woman's body better than her. I swear one day I will own an Infinity Dress from the collection, but I always turn to DKNY for chic, elegant pieces for work and special occasions.

The brand's color story for Fall is concentrated in the rich colors of autumn - gold, aubergine, midnight blue - and accented with neutral camel, grey and (of course) black. The collection has many items to covet, all following the lady meets menswear trend. There are plenty of mini-skirts in wool and plaid, some of them pleated which I think it adorable. Look for a blazer in a brown butter tan with leather sleeves and several comfy sweatersthat can be layered on top of one another. If you get one item from DKNY this fall it HAS to be the brand's signature cozy wrap sweater, reinvented yet again in a colorblock pattern with sequins and beading.

Lust of the Week | Jeffrey Campbell Bandit Suede Wedge Boot

I admit I'm partial to anything in a wedge. You get the height you want without the wobbly tendencies of a stiletto heel (which is key for a klutz like me.) I'm also a new fan of Jeffrey Campbell shoes, having only discovered them for myself this past Spring. The statement making trendy designs are right up my alley and the way they incorporate the wedge trend is among the best.

At the moment I'm lusting after the Bandit Suede Wedge Bootie. It's a great height, with a 1" platform and a 3.75" heel that should make it pretty easy to walk in. I also love the colorblock design of the suede in chocolate, black and grey.

Bandit retails at $155 (basically a steal) and is available now at ShopBop.

The Look | Leopard Print

Yes child, Leopard Print is back again. This time I'm eager to jump in on the trend due to the innovative ways designers are using the print this season (as evidenced by this picture of Rihanna in a two-tone Leopard Dolce and Gabbana dress.) So far most of the Fall collections I've seen have some form of Leopard print clothing or accessory so it shouldn't be difficult to find something right for you.

In selecting a full on dress, I'm partial to the print done in an unexpected color - purple, red, royal blue. It slightly softens the effect of the print, like it does with the gorgeous velvet Marc Jacobs dress in a deep pink Leopard Print over at Net-a-Porter. I'm also intrigued by having the print slightly distorted, which adds an edge. If I had to pick one designer go-to for a leopard print dress it would be Diane Von Furstenberg ... LOVING every dress she has available from the multicolored Tacita Silk Minidress to the Safi Shirtdress.

Ann Taylor is a great source for animal print clothing in you want to include the look in your work wardrobe. There are several blouse and skirt options available at the boutique, especially if you'd like to incorporate these prints into your work wardrobe. I'm also fawning over an adorable leopard sequin tee (all the spots are made out of sequins.)

If you're going for full on drama, nothing says glam like a Leopard print trench coat. There are several options at varying price points available at Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's. If you're willing to part with a paycheck or two, then Lanvin has a divine Leopard Sequined Evening Coat just for you available at Kirna Zabete.

When it comes to shoes I don't think anyone has captured the sexy leopard shoe in the way that Christian Louboutin has for Fall. The lace-up peep toe bootie, available at Bergdorf Goodman, is EVERYTHING. You could rock that shoe with a trash bag and look fierce. Louboutin also has wedges, slingbacks, boots and his classic covered platform pump available in the trendy print (and don't you love how the signature red bottom seems made to accent the print.) Of course we can't forget the Alexander Wang Alla wedge bootie, which I can't find for sale anywhere, that has been seen on the feet of fashionable celebrities everywere (I just pre-ordered a similar style from Nina Shoes at 20% off thanks to fellow blogger Fit for Fashion.)

This is only the tip of the iceberg. With bags, scarves, belts, hats and even jewelry options available there is no way you can't find at least one leopard print item to wear for Fall. Here are some of my favorites:

More Ann Taylor...

Links We Love | Fashion News and Style Inspiration

Happy Friday!

Here's my curated list of fashion news and inspiration to take note of for this past week:

Fashion News

The Washington Post (Robin Givhan): Essence's Hiring of White Fashion Director Should Be Symbol of Inclusiveness

The Cut: Where to Be on Fashion's Night Out

The Cut: Three Ways to Check In to Fashion Week With Lincoln Center's Fancy New Computer System
Fashionista: Crystal Renn on Her New Chanel Campaign, That Whole Retouching Scandal and Acting

Fall Fashion
StyleStance: Be Inspired By Uniform Project
TheFabChick: Fall 2010 Handbag Trends on Polished Image and Style
Eat Sleep Denim: Trending - When & How to Buy Trendy Denim


Style Inspiration (I LOVE these Stylistas!)
Cupcakes and Cashmere: Studies in Sequins
Fashion Bananas: Warm Chocolate


Hope you enjoy reading them as much as I did!

JCrew Fall 2010 Must Haves

When the August 2010 J.Crew catalog arrived I immediately sat down and flipped through the entire book, earmarking pages as I went. The collection is true to what has come to be known as the J.Crew aesthetic - well made classic pieces done in a modern way with a smattering of surprises, usually in sequins. The brand is a staple of my work wardrobe because it allows me to be professional without sacrificing my sense of style (and there's nothing like a J.Crew cardigan.)

My love of the brand is not just about the clothing, the styling is impeccable. In my opinion, Jenna Lyons can do no wrong. Who would've thought you could pair a camp shirt with a men's tie and a sequin skirt?! I like the fact that she pushes you to think differently about how to pair items and what it means to be "dressed."

DVF Fall 2010 Lookbook

As always, Diane Von Furstenberg has produced a glamourous collection full of texture, class and whimsy. Typically known for bold, strong prints, there aren't too many showcased in the Fall lookbook. Instead the focus is on rich metallics, beading and tweed in items that can easily take you from the office to a cocktail party.

Indulge and enjoy the DVF Fall 2010 Lookbook then run over to DVF.com as I'm sure these items will sell out quickly.

Lust of the Week | Tory Burch Dayton Messenger Bag

Tory Burch has made quite the name for herself in the design world, but her eponymous collection typically stays off my radar. Lately I've been taking notice and I'm genuinely impressed with the Fall 2010 collection. It has a younger feel while maintaining the classic american sportswear angle. You can checkout the Fall 2010 lookbook here.

With the launch of the Tory Burch fall collection comes new options in accessories and I am all about the Dayton Messenger bag. I love the rugged leather and the dark cocoa color. It would be a great go-to for work or play and it's perfectly in line with the trends of the season.

The Dayton messenger bag retails for $525 and is available online at ToryBurch.com.

GAP Fall 2010 Lookbook

In the last decade, GAP has dealt with brand issues from inconsistent design direction to financial woes. The brand became known more for memorable TV advertising and less so for clothing people actually wanted to flaunt. Things started to turn around aesthetically for the brand when they selected Patrick Robinson as design director in 2007, began focusing on design instead of advertising and launched their 1969 premium denim line last year. The launch of their 2010 collection, including a premium pant line akin to the denim relaunch, looks to be another step up on the ladder to reclaim the stronghold they had in the 90's.

Taking a page out of J. Crew's book, GAP has started to up their game in the styling department. It's clear that seeing an item styled in the right way has a greater influence on a consumer's willingness to purchase.

The Look | The Military Jacket

The Fall season brings a continuation of the utilitarian trend that dominated the summer (yes you can continue to wear your skinny cargos into the fall) and the military style jacket is a key item to add to your wardrobe.

The jacket is typically shown in the form of an anorak (as evidenced below), but you can also find blazers, capes and leather options as well. Pick up a piece in the signature army green and look for jackets with military accents in navy or black.

While DKNY Jeans showcases their Fall collection with layer upon layer of military chic, both GAP and J.Crew have done a wonderful job of showcasing the versatility of the army jacket. Don't be afraid to pair it with a sleek pair of pants or, for the truly fashion forward, a sequined dress.

Halle Berry Graces the Cover of Vogue's September Issue

When it comes to fashion in print September is the most important month of the year. True fashionistas know that of all the fashion titles that will hit newsstands this month, Vogue is "the bible." So it was only fitting that StyleSaveur launch September magazine coverage with Vogue's September 2010 Cover.

As reported back in June, Halle Berry is the model chosen for this infamous cover. She is the first black woman to grace the cover of September Vogue since Naomi Campbell in 1989 (21 years too long in my opinion.)

As alway Halle looks flawless! at 43 she is the epitome of beauty and the photography by Mario Testino showcases this to perfection. And the decision by Vogue editors to use her to bring to life the Velvet trend for A/W 10 was genius. I can't wait to see Ms. Berry swathed in yards of velvet in all the shades of autumn.

The Look | Pairing White and Gray for Summer

As the temperature rises, along with the humidity, I always find myself dissecting my wardrobe in the hopes of locating the pieces that will keep me fashionably-cool. Taking stock of my looks over the past month I've noticed a pattern, a lot of my outfits were based on two neutral tones - white and gray. A classic pairing, the combination of these two colors is an appropriate and refreshing go-to for summer.

My "uniform" has been dark indigo skinny jeans, a white top and a light gray cardigan. This is a great base look that anyone can adopt, and there are endless options in stores right now (most of them on sale.) Flip the look by pairing white jeans with a grey top or vice versa. You can also belt a gray boyfriend cardigan over a summery white dress for a chic day-to-night option.

Sleeveless Tops by Alice + Olivia
Platforms by Via Spiga

The pairing of gray and white can be a little bland, so accessorize this look with a bag, shoes and/or jewlery in bright pops of color. I'm partial to a shade of blue, but coral, apple green, fuschia or purple are great alternatives.

Style Moments | Kelly Rowland

 

I've always been a Kelly Rowland fan and I must say the girl has lots of style. While promoting her soon to be released new album in London, Miss Rowland arrived at GMTV in casual chic done right. Love the tan/cream combination, the super relaxed fit of her cargos and the red platform architectural pumps are fierce!

Kelly also graces the cover of the July issue of Cosmopolitan South Africa:

Here's to hoping we see a lot more of Kelly in the style pages.

Photos courtesy of The YBF

Lust of the Week | Christian Louboutin Studded Lace-Up Oxford

Doing my usual procrastination ritual of immersing myself in Tweetdeck, I was hit with the gorgeous shoe truck. The ever-illuminating @Bergdorfs was captured while styling an intern and on her feet were what can only be described as mah-jor! Where have these Louboutin studded oxfords been all my life?!?

The shoe is $995 and can be purchased via the Bergdorf's website, but there are limited sizes (mine is unfortunately sold out in black.) This is definitely an investment for those of us without disposable income, but you can find alternatives from brands like Dolce Vita.


Photos courtesy of AdequatelyFresh.com and @GlamazonDiares

Halle Berry Rumoured to be Vogue September Issue Cover Model

According to a Fashionista report, mom, actress and Revlon Spokeswoman Halle Berry will grace the cover of the renowned September issue of American Vogue magazine (disputing previous rumors that Gwyneth Paltrow would be that month's cover model.)

Although some in the fashion world still consider Halle a "safe" choice for the magazine, I think it's a step (a small one) in the right direction of breaking out of using the same old list of hollywood starlets. It's also a great step for women of color, as Halle will be the first black woman to grace the cover of the September issue since Naomi Campbell in 1989 (21 years!!) However I must say I agree with Fashionista's sentiment that perhaps they should have used Iman, given her recent receipt of the CFDA Icon award. Anna are you listening?

Nevertheless ... I will have an extra skip in my step as I head to the mailbox to pick up my September issue this year.

Photo courtesy of The Fashion Vixen

Lust of the Week | Proenza Schouler PS1 Satchel

While everyone is fawning over Alexander Wang's handbag creations (all great pieces in their own right) I have taken to another rendition of downtown cool ... the Proenza Schouler PS1 satchel. Be still my heart. The bag first caught my eye while I was scanning looks over on The Sartorialist. We then had a chance encounter when I ventured into Barney's and my crush was cemented when DailyCandy suggested the extra large version as carry-on luggage (ingenious!)

The PS1 bag comes in three sizes - medium, large and extra large - all available in the soft leather, suede, python, or croc (of course unless you would have to be willing to spend the equivalent of a condo downpayment for the latter) in an array of colors. I'm CRAVING this bag. Seriously, I haven't been this obsessed over something in a month of Sundays. It's just the perfect, slouchy, go anywhere, carry anything bag - as evidenced by Leighton Meester and Lauren Santo Domingo.

The bag is available online at ProenzaSchouler.com (best selection) or at Barney's New York (in-store and online.) Time to start my PS1 fund, unless someone who happens to be reading this is feeling generous *wink, wink*. I kid, I kid. Happy shopping!

Images courtesy of Star Style Inc. and  Street Peeper.

Style Moments | June Ambrose

Another installment that showcases the fabulous looking ... well, fabulous! Today's look, posted via Twitpic, is once again courtesy of the infallible June Ambrose, stylist and all around style maven. Her "fashion dossier": Jill Sander shoes, Zara Blazer & Pants, Paul & Joe top, Club Monaco Coat and Marni Necklace ... her ever-present Hermes bag in tow.

Loving the shorter sleeve overcoat with the standard blazer, something most would never try but looks like a classic pairing here. The statement shoe and necklace are focal points for this tone-on-tone ensemble - professional with an edge. LOVE it.

Official 2010 Fashion's Night Out T-Shirt and a BIG Vogue Announcement

Fashion's Night Out 2010 is less than 6 months away and I for one cannot wait to join in the fashion debauchery that will occur on the streets of NYC this year. One of the highlights of last year's event was the official FNO T-shirt, on-sale at a number of boutiques off- and on-line and selling out is a matter of days (I distinctly remember grabbing the last t-shirt in my size around 9:30pm at the Theory store in MePa.) I'm happy to say they're keeping the tradition going ...


Vogue offered a sneak peek at the 2010 FNO T-Shirt (modeled by Liya Kebede and Raquel Zimmerman) on their website and announced that there would be several styles available this year, including a tank and hoodie version (be still my heart ... I'm a sucker for a cute hoodie.) The shirts will go on sale mid-August and 40% of the proceeds will go to The New York City AIDS Fund. Keep your eyes one the prize people ... we'll make sure to update you as soon as the shirts go on sale so that you get your hands on one for yourself.


And now on to our main story ...


A MAJOR announcement came down today from Madame Wintour herself  - Vogue, in collaboration with SPEC Entertainment, will launch FNO 2010 with a large-scale fashion show that will *gasp* be open to the general public! The show will take place on September 7th at Lincoln Center, NYFW's new home, and will focus on the key trends for Fall '10 as depicted in Vogue's September Issue. I'm sure the hope is that seeing the Fall clothing on the runway will spark the shopping bug in us all and get us to buy, buy, buy more, more. more the actual day of FNO (September 10th.)
I wonder if this is part of a new movement by the powerhouse that is Vogue. The May issue did include a piece by Plum Sykes on how disjointed in-store seasonality is becoming (with swimsuits on sale in the middle of snowstorms and sundresses impossible to find in mid-August.) Perhaps this is the start of a campaign to bring in-store seasonality more in line with actual shopping needs. One can only hope ...

“We felt it is important for people to see what wonderful fashion will be in stores at that moment,” said Vogue editor in chief, Anna Wintour. “This show will focus on the key trends we’ve identified for Fall so that shoppers will have plenty of inspiration to join the fun during Fashion’s Night Out.”

Tickets for this event will go on-sale through the Lincoln Center Box Office at some point this summer, with a portion of those proceeds also going to The New York City AIDS Fund.

Lust of the Week | Alexander McQueen Brass-Knuckle Clutch

I'm back! Did you miss me? I certainly missed sharing my passion for fashion with you. Let's start the week off with everyone's favorite "Lust of the Week"!

Following his untimely passing, everyone has lamented over the genius that was Alexander McQueen. I admit that while I found his designs awe-inspiring, I never lusted to add one of his pieces to my closet ... until today. This eel-skin brass-knuckle clutch is beyond amazing! Talk about a statement - bright pink with jeweled skulls topping the brass knuckle closure. To quote Rachel Zoe, I DIE! Seriously ... if I don't get one for myself I just may die of fashion envy.

The clutch is currently available online at NeimanMarcus.com and retails for $1,690. It will be a collector's item so I suggest you pick it up immediately.

Happy shopping!

StyleSaveur is a "Love Her Style" Blog Award Winner!!

So excited to bring you this news ... StyleSaveur has won an award! One of our favorite bloggers, The Obsessionista, bestowed the "Love Her Style" award upon us. I'm humbled by the award and can only hope to live up to its premise - "Fashion expression should speak; volume, LIFE, and character...which is exactly what these ladies showcase daily!" 

A very sincere THANK YOU to The Obsessionista, an award winner herself. I'm in very stylish company, so be sure to check out the other winners:

... a reflection by Tuesdai

ADDIKTED2FASHION

RippedNylon

Coley's Closet Cravings

Adventures of Black Orchid


Thank you to all of my readers for your continued support! *applause*

How To Plan Your Spring Wardrobe

It's officially Spring! I know, I know ... it doesn't feel like it in New York City right now (48 degrees?!?), but it is. That means it's time to start packing away our shearlings, sweater dresses, and Uggs to make room for lightweight leather jackets, floral shift dresses and sandals. But don't run to Bloomingdale's just yet! In life if we fail to plan,we plan to fail and that goes for fashion too. Having a clear plan of action will save you money and leave you with a well edited closet, which makes it easier to get dressed. 

To prep you for Spring shopping, I've compiled the below process for planning out your wardrobe. The steps come courtesy of one of my favorite style guides - Style 101: What Every Stylish Woman Should Know from the editors of InStyle magazine.

Step 1: Create an Inspiration Board

[Image courtesy of profreshstyle.com]

Since you're all fashionistas, I'm sure you've poured over the latest issues of InStyle, Vogue, Harper's Bazaar and other fashion magazines to learn about the Spring trends, see new items available from your favorite designers or see what your favorite celebrities are wearing. Take it one step further and tear out the looks that you want to imitate or buy - both from fashion spreads and advertising. You can also print out looks from your favorite bloggers (I've been inspired by The Glamourai, Swank Heights and Fashion Bananas.)

Tape/pin/paste the looks to a bulletin board or, if you don't have one, purchase a thick piece of foam/core board from an art store and post it on your closet door. As you populate the board, take notice of what trends you're gravitating to and what items emerge as YOUR must-haves (not what everyone else is telling you to buy.)

Step 2: Edit Your Current Wardrobe

[Image courtesy of instyle.com]

Now you know the look you're aiming for this Spring, but don't go shopping just yet! You should first take the time to go through your current wardrobe, inspecting and trying on clothes from last Spring and last season to see what's still in style, what fits and what flatters you most. This goes for shoes, bags and accessories as well. 

Go through everything and separate your closet/dresser drawers into four piles - Keep, Repair/Alter, Donate, Trash. The Keep pile should consist of items that fit, flatter and remain stylish. Pieces that still work, but need new buttons or could be taken in a few inches should go into the Repair/Alter pile. Items that are still in good condition, but don't fit or are no longer your style should go in the Donate pile and be given to a local Salvation Army or consignment shop. Anything that is beyond repair should be in the Trash pile. 

This could take up a good portion of your day and emotions might run high since you may have to part with items that hold sentimental value so make this part fun! Pour a glass of wine, play some music that makes you feel great, do whatever keeps you in a positive state of mind.

Be organized when putting your Keep and Repair/Alter items (once they've been repaired/altered) back in your closet - organize clothing by category and then by color from light to dark, neatly place bags on shelves (stuff them with tissue paper and use the dust bags that came with them), shoes stacked in clear boxes. For organized closet inspiration, check out Making It Lovely blog or visit InStyle.com's gallery of celebrity (shoe) closets.

Step 3: Do Some Styling

[Image courtesy of Cupcakes and Cashmere]

Once you've edited your closet, it's time to become your own stylist. Start creating outfits based on your inspiration board. What outfits can you already create? Lay them out and photograph them to create your own Spring Look Book. Purchase a photo album to house the pictures of your looks and store it prominently in your closet for reference whenever you think you have nothing to wear.

Note the items missing from your wardrobe. Is there a Boyfriend Blazer in most of your inspiration looks, but you don't own one? Do you need certain accessories to complete some of your looks? You'll need this information for the next, and final, step.

Step 4: Make a Wish List

You've found your fashion inspiration, edited your closet, and determined what was missing from your wardrobe. There's only one step left before you head to the mall ... creating your Spring Wish List.

Separate a sheet of paper into two columns - Need and Want. In the Need column, write down those items that you won't be able to do without this Spring. Ideally it should be populated with wardrobe staples that will get a lot of wear or pieces needed to complete several of your inspired looks. If it's not absolutely necessary, like a 3rd pair of wooden platform wedge sandals, then it goes into the Want column.

Make sure to keep your Wish List with you when you do your Spring shopping, which prevents impulse purchases. I completely understand how you can be distracted by a statement necklace that you just have to have, but purchase your key items (e.g. your Need list) first before moving on to the fun stuff.

Once you've completed all of these steps, you're ready to go shopping with your Wish List in hand. I tend to add an extra step by researching prices online at some of my favorite stores to make sure I stick to my budget. Why pay full price for a wedge sandal at Saks 5th Avenue if I can get a similar style at Ann Taylor for 30% less? 

You're now armed and ready lovelies. Happy Spring Shopping!