Gilt Groupe Sales

Gilt is especially good this week--Milly and Notte by Marchesa on Thursday! If you need an invitation, click here to join Gilt Groupe.

Monday, August 31: Alexander McQueen, Chloe and Nina Ricci Sunglasses, ila&i Jewelry

Tuesday, September 1: See by Chloe, Rebecca Taylor and Ali Ro, H2 at Hammerman, Rachel Roy, Calvin Klein Collection Shoes, Erno Laszlo Skincare

Wednesday, September 2: Kate Spade, Designer Denim, Greenbeads and Adina Reyter

Thursday, September 3: Milly, Notte by Marchesa, Gurhan Jewelry

Friday, September 4: Jewelry from Mary Louise Designs, Citrine by the Stones and more, Labor Day Accessories sale, Paige Black Label, Y-3 Adidas

What Would Blair Wear? Last Hamptons Weekend

Lured away to the Hamptons for one last summer weekend, Blair would set off her very slight tan with pastels. Always careful to avoid the dreaded orange face, B would shade her precious visage with a straw hat and violet sunglasses. Her ruffled cover-up coordinates with an ooh-la-la ruffled bikini--Queen B would definitely want to make sure Chuck's eyes are always on her.

Totes Elements Clear Bubble Umbrella

I ordered this bubble umbrella from Target and it is perfect for Chicago's blustery winds. It's basically April weather here, and I've been staying dry until this--it's so much easier to navigate the sidewalks when I can actually see where I'm going, and I love that it makes me feel a bit like Mary Poppins.

Kate Spade Fall Looks

I mean... really, Kate Spade, I am gobsmacked over your fall looks. One of everything, please.

J.Crew Paris Photoshoot

The sweet look from the 2007 J.Crew photoshoot in Paris always makes me wish I'd bought this plaid taffeta skirt. Oh, well--I do have a J.Crew mustard color sweater jacket, and this picture prompted me to try it with a navy striped tee and skinny brown corduroy pants. Bonjour!

Donna Karan Resort 2008

My recent Anna Sui skirt purchase was inspired by this style from Donna Karan Resort 2008. I love the rich texture of this skirt and the dreamy volume balanced with a thick, black silk waistband. The black boatneck top and black headband complete the put-together look, while the white thong sandals lend a casual summer feel.

Tom Ford Stephanie Tortoise Sunglasses

These Tom Ford Stephanie sunglasses look crazy big in this picture, but giant sunglasses are must for me, as I have a large head. Seriously, I do, but I'm okay with my pumpkin-like noggin'. I am in love with my other Tom Ford glasses and snapped up this tortoise pair for a song from Editor's Closet online. These are especially effective for my favorite sunglasses-as-headband look.

Long Layered Necklaces

Here's what I love about long, layered necklaces--you can be shlubbing around in a t-shirt and jeans, and then you throw on one of these babies and a pair of heels and you're suddenly in a casually chic outfit with rock vibe. These are all from Nordstrom and are under $100.

Cara Accessories long layered necklace, $88 (my personal favorite!)

Cara Accessories layered chain necklace in silver, $68 (great with white)
Cara Accessories layered chain necklace in hematite, $68 (awesome with a tight black tee)

Nordstrom long link necklace, $88 (office appropriate but still fun!)

Banana Republic Short Sleeve V-Neck Tee

I love a bargain, and I ordered this white v-neck Banana Republic tee, on sale for $11.99. I like hope wide and deep the v-neck is, and it's pretty alluring on--if I were more daring, I'd wear it out with some racy lingerie. I'll stick to pairing it with cardigans for a more conservative look, and maybe if I'm feeling daring, I'll wear it with an unbuttoned v-neck cardigan... sexy time!

Anna Sui Crochet Skirt

I bought this Anna Sui skirt because it's super pretty and was $40. (Bargain!) The lace is a delicately filigreed, and when I wear it I feel as if I'm an English Rose wandering the countryside to gather flowers for a bouquet. It's so unabashedly girly that I surrendered to the sweetness and wore it with a white voile shell and a pale pink cardigan.

Tiffany Luggage Tag

For a Labor Day weekend getaway, this Tiffany blue patent leather luggage tag is a sweet indulgence to perk up an old overnight bag. The silver buckle holds the privacy flap closed so no one can seek a peek at personal information, and it's a Tiffany-style bargain at $60.

Dolce Vita Wiley Boots

I have calves. Real calves, with muscle. This is apparently unheard of for 99% of boot designers, so I was delighted to find these Dolce Vita Wiley boots, which have the biggest calves ever. Seriously, they are awesome... slouchy and loose and comfy even when I shove my jean-clad leg into them, with no pulling or pushing required. The flap on the front is a little funky for me, but I know not to push my luck and will definitely be keeping these. The boots run a big bit size-wise, but I'm going to keep the slightly big ones so I can pair them with snuggly socks for the Chicago winters.

Club Monaco Looks

I saved these four looks from Club Monaco three years ago (I think) and they still work for fall. The second look with the cuffed sleeve blazer is my favorite, as it's a relaxed, classic style that works for day or evening. The textured tights on the skirted outfits are also pretty fab. I've been wearing tons of color lately, and it's inspiring to see black and white translated in a fresh, fashionable way.

Nicely Done: Halle Berry

Halle Berry is 43 years old, and she still looks hotter than most women half her age. Seriously, I don't know how she does it, but she is working those liquid leggings. The striped tunic is the perfect length, maintaining the sexiness of the outfit while still looking casually cool.

Acquire It: Burberry Studded Ankle Strap Pump

Burberry Studded Ankle Strap Pump, $384.90 (originally $650) at Nordstrom

Admire It: BE & D Richmond Studded Pump

BE & D Richmond studded pump, $548 at shopbop.com

Graham & Spencer Violet Silk Cami

I received an email from Shop Chantal with this great styling of the Graham & Spencer violet silk cami for day and night. This day/night contrast is a staple of fashion magazines, but here the cami seems perfectly appropriate for both. I also like that the stylists used the same strappy shoes for both outfits, and the looks share a relaxed, modern vibe. While this particular cami is lovely—especially the color and the delicately beaded straps—these ideas can be duplicated with any longer-length tank.

Gilt Groupe Sales

I wish I wasn't on a shop-lite, as I am searching for a particularly lovely D&G dress. If you need an invitation, click here to join Gilt Groupe.

Monday, August 24: Marc Jacobs Collection, Rhonda Faber Green Jewelry, Lorelei Handbags, Designer Accessories Sale

Tuesday, August 25: James Perse, Elie Tahari Shoes & Handbags, D&G Jewelry & Watches

Wednesday, August 26: Stella McCartney Shoes & Handbags, Lulu Frost and Eddera Jewelry

Thursday, August 27: Malin + Goetz, Acne Jeans, Filippa K, Just Cavalli, Gustto

Friday, August 28: 29 Cosmetics, Calvin Klein Collection, D&G Dolce & Gabbana, Lizzie Scheck Jewelry

Sunday, August 30: Derek Lam, Thakoon, Temperley and more

What Would Blair Wear? Moving Into NYU

Blair might wear jeans for move-in day at NYU, but she'd never stoop to wear sneakers with them. The horror! B would pair her denim with Lanvin heels and her signature look of a headband, a bow accent, and plenty of preppy navy. She'd stand court supervising while Dorota sets up what is sure to be the most fab room in college history.

Ruben Toledo Book Covers

Fashion illustrator Ruben Toledo (husband to fashion designer Isabel Toledo) recently lent his creative talents to new Penguin editions of Wuthering Heights, Pride and Prejudice, and The Scarlet Letter. Hester Prynne has kind of a Rachel Zoe look going on with her long wavy hair and Cathy has a wide-eyed gothic appearance. They're available tomorrow on Amazon.

Marc By Marc Jacobs Cardigan

I saw this in Teen Vogue (don't judge me!) and loved everything about this MbMJ sweater--the stripes, the covered buttons, the ruffled peplum--and knew it had to go on my wish list. It's now available for pre-order at Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom, and holds a place on my fall wish list. I'd pair it with the standard gray sometimes, but I also think it would look great with tweed.

Marc By Marc Jacobs Turnlock Teri

Oh, Teri. This classic Marc by Marc Jacobs tote is almost magical, because it's disguised as a slightly slouchy shoulder bag...

...but it's actually giant. I have shoved a yoga outfit, high heels, two library books, and a fistful of granola bars in here without any difficulty. It's been on summer hiatus, but the freezing cold Chicago summer means it's time for the return of ol' Teri.

Jennifer Garner in Valentine's Day

I've liked Jennifer Garner since I found out she named her big yellow Lab Martha Stewart. She looks darling in a red polka dot sweater, navy skirt, gray hobo, and nude wedges on the set of the new romantic comedy Valentine’s Day.

Catherine Malandrino Strapless Corsage Dress

I managed to score this Catherine Malandrino strapless corsage dress for about 80% off retail, and just got it back from the Dress Doctor, my magic tailor. The multicolored floral pattern is called meadow print, and I love that the flowers are abstract with dark, rich tones, lending the dress a sophisticated modern style. The dress has great subtle detailing with tonal corsages at the top left, origami folds across the bodice, and a tonal skinny belt at the high waist. I'll pair it with black slingbacks or pale gold ankle-strap platform sandals.

Alexander Wang Classic Mini Pocket Tank

I love a bargain, and my t-shirts are usually the testimony to some sort of sale--30% off at the Gap, $3 day at Old Navy--but occasionally I am tempted away from my belief that tees should be in the single-digit price range. Oh, Alexander Wang, why do you do this to me? Your mini pocket tank is perfection... so sexy, so easy, so "yes, I just threw this on and yes, I do look this good" that I am perpetually hovered over the "add to bag" icon. This would be insanely hot tucked into a black pencil skirt with a black bra peeking through and banded high-heel sandals.

Hermès Scarves

I'd love to own a classic hand-rolled silk Hermès scarf one day--the colors are incredibly vivid with interesting artistic patterns. This Dancing Pearls scarf is especially appealing.

Since $375 for a 36" x 36" piece of fabric isn't in the foreseeable future, I've taken solace in Hermès' production of the adorable booklet "Playtime With Your Scarf" with some great ideas on how to piece your scarf. Fortunately for me, the techniques will work for my decidedly more bargain buys.

Brooks Brothers Wrinkle-Resistant Blue Stripe Pajamas

While I'm fond of the standard slinky pajamas, there are times when a girl needs snuggly nightwear. These Brooks Brothers striped pajamas are, technically speaking for men, but the classic styling works for women. While donning both pieces together is a comfortable alternative, wearing the pants with a little camisole or the shirt alone (à la Annette Bening in The American President) can be slyly sexy.

Milly Jungle Leaf Dress

Blair Waldorf wore this green Milly dress in the season two premiere of Gossip Girl, and I squealed when I recognized my dress onscreen. The dress has a button detail at the neckline, a front kick-pleat, and a fabric belt. I wore mine with yellow bow espadrille wedges and pearls--perfect for brunch, though mine was decidedly less fancy than B's meal in the Hamptons.

Ensemble Dresses

Anthropologie sent out an email about ensemble dresses featuring this Bustling Avenues Dress (on a mannequin here) and it caught my eye--it has an orange silk bodice and a textured black and ivory cotton skirt with a bold button closure. I love this trend of dresses that look like separates--it's the easiest way to get dressed in the summer and is usually more cost-effective than buying two pieces.

J.Crew Penelope Mary Janes

I finally had a chance to wear my J.Crew Penelope heels, which I bought on super sale last year. I was surprised to find them for such a great deal, but they are so cheery and I love the little splash of olive green on the heel--I think they'd be a little too matchy if the heel was yellow. I usually wear between a 7.5 and 8, and I bought these in an 8 and the fit is great.

Nicely Done: Dita Von Teese

Dita is definitely committed to her pin-up girl look, and I love this incarnation. The soft hair, the shades, the white summer sundress with watercolored roses, and white structured bag all add up to an impeccable outfit. I especially love that she's wearing this at a gas station... so fab, Dita.

CC Skye Patent Screw Bracelet

This CC Skye patent screw bracelet kind of reminds me of the iconic Cartier Love bracelets, but the red patent leather gives it a punk flair. The white version is also quite covetable, and I think these bracelets would look great with soft silk dresses.

Acquire It: Xhilaration Knit Top Dress

Xhilaration Knit Top Dress, $29.99 at Target

Admire It: Cynthia Rowley Tulle Dress

Cynthia Rowley tulle dress, $375 at Shopbop

Rene Caovilla Plisse Chiffon Platforms

One of my favorite bloggers, the lovely Goldenmeans, recently featured these Rene Caovilla Plisse chiffon platforms and they are so beautiful that I couldn't resist sharing them here.

The details are what make these shoes so gorgeous, from the nude chiffon pleating to the perfect velvet bow to the sheer ruffled edging to the sparkly silver soles. These would be totally hot as bedroom wear, but at $1,040 they are destined to only be mine in my dreams.

Yves Saint Laurent Patent Leather Hobo

Darn it! While I love the internet and access to more beautiful clothing and accessories than I could ever amass, sometimes I see items that are so tempting and so out of budget. I have been trying to save up my bag allowance for a Chanel classic flap, and it hasn't been too difficult--I am not much of a purse person. However, I am lusting after this YSL classic hobo in glossy vernis soft patent leather with contrast silvertone hardware accents. It's fashionable and timeless, appropriate for the office and fun for weekend shopping, big enough at 14"x14" to hold anything you'd need yet with a softness that doesn't overwhelm. It's $1,195 at Saks and has all the little details you'd expect from YSL--metal feet, interior zipped pocket, magnetic snap closures, a hefty strap--and naturally, I'm swooning.

What Would Blair Wear? Day With Cyrus

It's a not stretch to imagine Blair as a corporate lawyer. To spend a day with Cyrus at his law firm, she'd don a suit in classic gray with the tailoring that only Vivienne Westwood can provide. She's tone down the suit with a strand of classic pearls and pearl stud earrings, but I think she'd relish the high heels of these Louboutins--height does imply power.

Gilt Groupe Sales

Gilt... so tempting. If you need an invitation, click here to join.

Monday, August 17: Vera Wang Lavender Label, Tissot Watches, Kenneth Jay Lane Jewelry

Tuesday, August 18: Matt & Nat, Abaete, Ted Rossi Jewelry

Wednesday, August 19: Rebecca Taylor, Mike & Chris Shoes, Boy by Band Of Outsiders, Damiani Jewelry

Thursday, August 20: Fratelli Rossetti, Donna Karan Collection, Rich & Skinny, Mario Badescu

Friday, August 21: Valentino Roma, Valentino Pret-a-Porter, Exhibitionist Jewelry by Michael Spirito, Pre-Fall Boots

Saturday, August 22: Diana Broussard Jewelry & Shoes

Sunday, August 23: Miguelina Mischen

Strand Tote Bag

I have a random Strand tote bag that I found at a garage sale when I was nine, and it's held up for years. The iconic bookstore now has a spiffy new organic version, and though there are many awesome Chicago bookstores, the sheer volume of Strand is something to behold.

Kate Spade Bisous Bow Trench

I stopped in the Kate Spade store yesterday and spotted this gorgeous Bisous bow trench. It's a classic double-breasted trench with a cool lipstick print lining that reminds me of Charlotte's famous Prada skirt. The collar flips up to reveal red underneath, and I love the bow on the back.

Kate Winslet Soars

I happen to have this same photo of myself, just hanging out in New York in an $8,000 Ralph Lauren dress. Um, not. It's gorgeous though, isn't it?

Vince Fingerprint Plaid Pencil Skirt

I bought this on super sale awhile back, but it was a bit too big so I had it tailored. (Getting things tailored is my new favorite thing--it makes me feel like I'm a fancy lady.) It's a stretch silk with a pattern that looks like paintbrush strokes. I plan on wearing it with my emerald green Walter pleated blouse and a black blazer with the sleeves rolled up.

Jamie Joseph Ruby Earrings

I saw these Jamie Joseph ruby earrings in InStyle more than a year ago, and I still think they're gorgeous. The deep purple-red Indian rubies are an unusual shade, and the oval shape is flattering to a rounder face.

See by Chloé

I've accumulated several See by Chloé pieces in the last year, and the new fall collection has some great items for nights out. This is an area of clothing that's always difficult for me--I'm not an especially sexy dresser and have to regularly resist the impulse to wear a cashmere cardigan for bar nights. This animal-print jacquard dress nicely evokes the 80s without falling into a trend trap, and I'm a sucker for anything purple. I'd wear it with layered necklaces and black suede platforms.

Nothing is as alluring as a corset, and this strapless twill bustier top has a ruffle detail and ruching at top, oversized self-tie bow detail at side, and a front asymmetric button-fastening pocket. The longer length means more coverage when paired with jeans, and it would be great with tight pants, strappy heels, and a swingy ponytail.

This chiffon sequined skirt is ridiculously awesome. I especially like that it's not skintight, and it can easily be paired with black basics--the skirt is special enough that accessories are unnecessary.