Pajamas Are Not Okay In Public

pjs by girlseeksstyle! featuring stretch sleepwear

Eberjey Prima PJ set, $110
Kelham Hot Water Bottle, $36

When I started Girl Seeks Style, I swore that I would only focus on the good. Because there are always two sides to any story, I intended to be positive and ignore any misguided fashion trend. For every beautifully tailored trouser, there is a pair of metallic harem pants. Every Louboutin has an opposing set of Crocs. I don't like being the voice of negativity, but this time I can't sit idly by and allow the following to go unmentioned.

Last night I saw a commercial that left me at a loss. Someone, somewhere decided that regular pants just weren't comfortable enough. What would happen if socially acceptable bottoms were combined with something cozier, softer...something you could sleep in? Enter PajamaJeans.

Denim patterned pajamas. Good people of the world, please do not think that it's okay to leave the house in these. It doesn't matter how much they actually look like jeans; they are not. Pajamas are not meant for public eyes. Maybe I'm too critical. What do you think?

Go Open-Toe

I recently participated in a discussion on WellCommunityChicago.com about appropriate formal footwear for winter. Take a look: 

Open-toe can definitely be done in winter, and even more so for a formal event. As with many fashion dilemmas, it's all about picking the appropriate style for the situation. Instead of a wide open-toe or strappy shoe, aim for more of a closed peep toe that will be substantial enough for colder months. Take a look at these Christian Louboutin Peplum 100 suede sandals for inspiration.

Material is also important. Try a classic wintery option such as suede, velvet, or even a festive metallic. Make sure to plan well if you're going to be walking outside since snow and salt can easily ruin certain fabrics and put a damper on your stylish outfit. Also, don't rule out legwear completely. The right combination of stockings and peep toes can work really well and will definitely be a warmer option than bare legs. Take a cue from the Chanel runway from the Spring 2009 Paris Fashion Week and make your own match.

Put a Ring On It

Every winter I struggle with catching my jewelry on the layers of scarves, gloves, and earmuffs I pile on. An earring snags a couple threads of my beloved Echo throw; embellished rings leave knit gloves looking like victims of closet moths. French jeweler Marie-Hélène de Taillac has relieved my fashion frustration with her new line of faux-bejeweled cashmere gloves for E+J. Her designs are currently featured in The New York Times Style section, in a slideshow entitled, "Exotic Rocks: Jewelry Finds Inspiration From Around the World." Have a look for yourself--presto, problem solved! I love a good 2-in-1 solution.

By the way, check out Marie-Hélène de Taillac's site for her other outstanding designs. Her collections can also be found on several sites including Net-a-Porter  and Shopstyle.

Marie Helene De Taillac by girlseeksstyle! featuring amethyst rings

Cabochon amethyst ring, 2,710 GBP
Marie Helene de Taillac Yellow Gold Pendant with green enamel frog..., 150 GBP
Marie H?l?ne de Taillac 22K Gold Ring with Quartz Stones, 1,960 GBP
Marie H?l?ne de Taillac Smokey Quartz Earrings with Spinel Stones, 1,610 GBP
22k gold tourmaline bracelet, 6,060 GBP
Princess Rubelite ring, 6,960 GBP
Marie-Hélène de Taillac Mini Love amulet pendant necklace, $870
MARIE-H, 330 EUR

Italian Beach

Doesn't this just make you want to jet off to the Amalfi Coast? A girl can dream...

Holiday Wish List

What are you giving your favorite fashionista for the holidays? Here are some of the top picks this winter at Girl Seeks Style.

Holiday Wish List by girlseeksstyle! featuring a patent bag

LIESA CARDIGAN
J.Crew Naomi feather and sequin silk skirt, $485
Oscar de la Renta Embroidered suede ballerina flats, $560
Y-Mail Coin Purse in Black Patent, $175
Faye Earrings, $100
House of Harlow 1960 14KT Gold Tribal Cuff in Turquoise, $220
City Scape Venice Scarf, $298
Bobbi Brown Crystal Eye Palette, $45
Amazon.com: OPI Burlesque Holiday 2010 Nail Lacquers: Beauty, $5.10
Amazon.com: OPI Burlesque Holiday 2010 Nail Lacquers, Glow Up..., $5.10
Amazon.com: 7.5' Pre-Lit Pretty In Pink Artificial Christmas Tree -..., $300
H&M Shop Online
The Little Black Book of Style, by Nina Garcia of Elle Magazine and...
Perfect Christmas Gifts - Best Christmas Presents - Nina Garcia -...
Vogue España | Find the Latest News on Vogue España at Vogue Archives
OPI Burlesque Nail Lacquers, Sparkle-licious
text 3 Marie Claire 01.2011 (UK)
article

Under Wraps

Anthropologie Scarves by girlseeksstyle! featuring blue tops

Blue Acne Space Print Tank, 95 GBP
Proud Plumes Scarf, $54
Stories Untold Scarf, $158
Fill-In-The-Blanks Scarf, $78

If I'm going to freeze the moment I walk outside, I want to at least look good doing so. Scarves are so necessary this time of year, and Anthropologie's stylish wraps make braving the cold a little less painful. I prefer long, substantial scarves like the ones above. The great color contrasts and patterns will make these pieces pop in any outfit for sure.

Layering

Dressing for extreme temperatures can be frustrating. Sub-zero winds outside send me into a heavy-sweater frenzy, but 10 minutes next to an indoor heater leave me in a tank or t-shirt. The key to staying comfortable in all kinds of weather is layering--add or subtract pieces as you go! I love to pair a cashmere cardi and a blazer for a soft-meets-structured look, like the pieces in the Polyvore set below. Try this combo with skinny pants to balance out the top layers. Boots are my footwear of choice for this, especially in chilly weather. They ground the outfit well, adding a little more substance, but flats or heels definitely work. What is your favorite way to layer up this winter?

Layering by girlseeksstyle! featuring skinny pants

Tucker Printed silk-blend blouse, $278
Rag & Bone / Knit / Winter Cardigan, $195
Agatha cotton blazer, $90
Vince Skinny jersey pants, $172
Frye boots

Breakfast At Tiffanys

Cold weather has sent me searching for a little extra style motivation. While exploring current trends is interesting and fun, the iconic style of Audrey Hepburn's Holly Golightly always perks me up. Something about the pairing of Holly's crazed eccentricity with classic, refined style calls out to me--a perfect attraction of opposites?

Breakfast at Tiffanys by girlseeksstyle! featuring long sleeve tops

Proenza Schouler / Knit Rib Turtleneck, $490
Intarsia wool-blend mini skirt, 102 GBP
Lanvin Like-Leopard Ballet Flats Blue/Black, $525
Women's jewelry - bracelets - Crystal lattice bracelet - J.Crew, $98
F2788 Sunglasses, $2.99
What Would Audrey Do? Book, $13
Porcelain bow-detail box, Tiffany & Co

Proa Museum, Buenos Aires

South American Scenery

Evita

I visited Museo Evita the other day during one of my afternoon walks around Buenos Aires. The museum houses a collection of historical items and personal belongings of the former First Lady of Argentina, Eva Perón, also known as Evita. I loved getting a glimpse at her personal style--the polished outfits, carefully planned out from the shoes to the matching hats. I found myself thinking that I would wear most of her closet today. Evita dressed with a mix of classic elegance and movie-star spunk--you can't go wrong with that combination. 

one of Evita's many great outfits

Evita dolls

lovely courtyard restaurant at Museo Evita

A Carnivore's Dream...Argentina

Riding In Style, Buenos Aires

Che Bella

I seem to find something new each time I walk through Whole Foods. Usually it's a some kind of granola bar or organic yogurt I've never seen before, but last night something unexpected popped out at me--Missoni-designed San Pellegrino bottles sitting pretty in those classic, identifiable zig-zags.

I know this kind of collaboration is nothing new, but it still surprises me every time I see something like this--does everyone remember the Karl Lagerfeld edition Coca Cola bottles? Paul & Joe for Perrier? This kind of partnership is so interesting to me--fashion permeating the branding of a basic product. What do you think? Is this exciting in a way or off-putting?

Caminito, Buenos Aires

Coming Soon...

Good morning readers! The past few weeks have been pretty busy, but Girl Seeks Style will return with regular posting from sunny South America in a few days. In the meantime, I will leave you with these  images from the Chanel Spring/Summer 2010 ad campaign in Buenos Aires--I'm already inspired. Hasta luego!

Chanel Argentina by girlseeksstyle! on Polyvore.com

chics filles: CHANEL SPRING-SUMMER 2010 AD CAMPAIGN
Chanel Spring/Summer 2010 Ad Campaign | nitrolicious.com
Chanel Spring/Summer 2010 Ad Campaign | LUXUO Luxury Blog

Daring or Demure: the Bralette

Victoria's secret is finally out of the bag--the bralette is back! I'm definitely one for modesty, but it's hard to hide these pretty pieces under layers of clothing. They're meant to be seen--even if only a little bit. Try one under a sheer top, or use it as a modern camisole to cover up a plunging neckline. These bralettes by Philip Lim and Alexander Wang look great peeking out of almost anything, and they make an ill-fitting or more risque item more wearable. I love the versatility--you can change your entire look with just one little piece. Would you be willing to try this trend?

The Bralette by girlseeksstyle! featuring print tops

T by Alexander Wang / Ponte Criss Cross Bra, $125
3.1 Phillip Lim / Printed Diamond Bralette, $85
3.1 Phillip Lim Combo Bralette, $85

Be Like Betty

It's getting colder by the day, so I think it is about time to take my hats, gloves, and scarves out of storage (yikes). This fall, I'm taking a cue from Mad Men's Betty Draper, sporting some wrist-length leather gloves. Whether you go with sleek and simple, rocker inspired hardware, or even elbow length sophistication, leather gloves will keep you warm and chic while that cold wind outside blows down your door.

If you prefer to steer clear of leather, there are tons of suede, cotton, satin--you name it--options out there. Look for a quality lining to ensure warmth and good construction. I picked up a great cashmere-lined camel pair at J. Crew, embellished with a mini gold zipper.

Which style do you prefer?

Be Like Betty by girlseeksstyle! featuring leather gloves

Product Report: Super Gloss

While I usually don't wear a ton of makeup, lip gloss is my one cosmetic weakness. I've always been drawn to it--all shades, all types--which explains my overflowing makeup drawer. After years of trying every gloss, balm, stick, and goo under the sun, I always come back to Bobbi Brown. Her gloss always looks great and can give a variety of looks depending on which type you choose. My favorite, the Brightening Lip Gloss, gives a nice, subtle shimmer without piling on too much color. These are my go-to colors when I want a nude, or pale lip. The Rich Color Gloss has coverage like a lipstick but goes on smoothly like a gloss, for when you want a more substantial look. Warning: these glosses can be a bit sticky, so be careful not to apply too much. What is your favorite lip look?

Bobbi Brown by girlseeksstyle! on Polyvore.com

Lions and Tigers and Louis

What do a giraffe, a flapper and a geisha have in common? Louis Vuitton, my friends. The Spring 2011 Fashion Week show was spectacular, with strong fall colors--deep teal and purple, vibrant yellow and orange, and autumn maroon--as well as light-catching, shimmering materials. What I really appreciate about this collection is how entertaining and eclectic it is. The pieces range in inspiration, from sleek and festive flapper dresses to structured kimono tailoring and safari images and patterns. As each model sauntered down the runway, I could place her in a specific setting--a story for each look.

I haven't found a show so exhilarating in a while, and I have to admit that I'm pretty relieved. I've been growing a bit tired of the return to 1950s silhouettes, but this was fresh and lively. Not a dull moment found at Louis V this year, that's for sure. Take a look at the runway images in the New York Times Fashion & Style section.


Image courtesy of Google Images

Architectural Bling

Can't get away to travel the world? Bring landmark destinations to your jewelry box instead! French jeweler, Philippe Tournaire creates miniature versions of global architecture set as rings and bracelets, allowing you to carry a Roman villa, the city of London, or perhaps a Chinese pagoda with you wherever you go.

Philippe Tournaire by girlseeksstyle! featuring a diamante ring

I find these creations fascinating--architecture, fashion and a shout-out to classical metallurgy all wrapped up into one chic package. I'm immediately reminded of Renaissance craftsmanship--Ghiberti's "Gates of Paradise," anyone?

A photo from my time in Florence, Italy

Would you wear these rings? Which ones?

Ikat

I'm a big fan of pretty much anything ikat, so when I saw this Ethos collection from ABC Home in Manhattan, I started decorating my future apartment in my head. I love these lively, bright rugs--what a fun way to energize an interior space. As advertised by ABC Home, this particular collection is woven from recycled sari silk. I love seeing ikat used in an unexpected way--a stand-out piece of furniture, a rug, a flowy blouse.

photos courtesy of ABC Home website

See by Chloe

Reflecting on all the great Fashion Week shows around the world, I try to pinpoint exactly what I love about my favorite collections. How do certain designers draw me in consistently? Looking at some pieces from See by Chloe reminds me how much I adore the label's simple elegance and effortless, casual style. Each look is feminine in an understated way--nothing fussy.

See by Chloe by girlseeksstyle! featuring a twill dress

See by Chloé Printed silk-twill dress, $495
See by Chloé Wool-blend intarsia poncho, $795
See by Chloé / Scallop Tie Waist Short, $148
SEE BY CHLO? 15092 BROWN LEATHER E229, 359 GBP
See by Chloe - 9S7147-N78 (Clouds Tiger) - Bags and Luggage, $364
Black Cherry Cross Body Bag, See by Chloe, 190 GBP
See by Chloe S/S 10 (See by Chloe)

What draws you to a collection? 

Change Your Spots

Leopard by girlseeksstyle! featuring gold tone watches

Jimmy Choo Wheel leopard-print calf hair flats, $495
Charlotte olympia shoes LEOPARD, 518 GBP
Tory Burch Haircalf Mini Bag - Leopard Hair Calf, $295
AK Anne Klein Women's 109072BKLE Round Gold-Tone Leopard Print Leather..., $65
Miu Miu Leopard-trimmed leather gloves, $540
leopard Coat \ New In Store 15/09/2010 | in French Connection New In...

I'm sure you've noticed by now that leopard is in this season--there's just no escaping it now. The bold animal print is making an appearance on everything it seems--from bags and shoes to sweaters, coats, and even hair accessories. Just a touch of jungle cat can be youthful and fun. I especially like to see it used with more traditional or classic pieces, like Jimmy Choo flats, or with a ladylike, feminine look. 

If these spots aren't your thing, you can still be inspired by the trend and go the subtle route. Leopard doesn't have to be loud or in-your-face to be great. Try just a hint of the pattern with a watch band or a belt for a minimal yet effective pop. 

Share your favorite spotty look! I can't wait to use my Tory Burch leopard mini bag. 

Rainy Day Women No.12 & 35

There's nothing like a little Burberry and Bobby D to brighten up a rainy Friday morning.

Rainy Day Women No. 12 & 35 by girlseeksstyle! featuring a trench coat

Tory Burch Divine cashmere sweater, $350
Burberry Cotton-twill trench coat, $1,395
Stretch twill Minnie pant in Black - J.Crew, $80
Love Ballerina in Black or Beige Patent, $485
Bob Dylan - The Times They Are A Changin LP, $22

Loving Leifsdottir

Waking up early is rough--I have never been a morning person. Waking up to darkness outside makes it even worse, and now that autumn is officially here (as of today!), I better brace myself for some sunless mornings. It is overcast here in Chicago today...gray, gray, gray...and when the outdoors won't cooperate, I turn to bright, energizing outfits and fun patterns to wake me up. My favorite Leifsdottir pieces are my gloomy go-tos. Polka dots, florals, and playful textures in feminine silhouettes are what make these Finnish designs stand out, and I always feel great wearing anything Leifsdottir. Have you seen the new lookbook?

Leifsdottir by girlseeksstyle! featuring a pencil skirt

Buleria Skirt, $198
Organza Petal Skirt, $228
Coming & Going Skirt, $198
Swan Song Skirt, $168

Hair: the good & the bad

About a year ago, I made a rather spontaneous decision to chop off my hair--I was bored with it and thought a drastic change was in order. The thrill lasted about an hour, and I have been growing it out since then. I am envious of girls who look great with any haircut! Have you seen Emma Watson's new cropped 'do? I was thrilled to see her bold new look--she pulls it off so well. Are you brave enough to try this style?

Emma Watson, actress
photo courtesy of The Huffington Post

My hairstyle-induced excitement was quickly subdued as I flipped through the latest issue of Elle and laid my eyes upon human hair jewelry. I'm all for innovative fashion, but this is a little too alternative for me. Where did this trend (dare I call it that?) come from? I suppose it shouldn't be such an odd concept to  embrace since we wear animal fur, but I don't see myself excitedly dressing in human hair anytime soon.  Am I alone on this one? 

Human Hair Earrings by Bitching &Junkfood
photo courtesy of Bitchingandjunkfood.com

Human Hair and Vegan Leather Strap Necklace by Kathy Coleman
photo courtesy of etsy.com

Sunday Brunch

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, no doubt about it. Scrambled eggs, cereal, french toast--you name it, I love it. There is one dish in particular that I just can't resist: flapjacks. WARNING pancake lovers--these are not the fluffy, airy, traditional pancakes you're thinking of. The flapjack is the thin, chewy, crepe-like cousin of the pancake, and in my opinion, a thousand times more delicious. For those of you familiar with Chicago, Walker Brothers is home to the most amazing flapjacks I have ever encountered, and i always order them any time I eat there...*sigh*

Sometimes a stack of flapjacks is in order and I can't hop over to Walker Brothers for a fix. After many, many attempts to recreate the exact mouth-watering deliciousness of my favorite breakfast eatery, I have finally come pretty darn close: Lund's Swedish Pancake Mix. I follow the recipe on the box, but pour the batter a bit thicker than directed, and voila! Flapjacks! Now, excuse me--its breakfast time!

photo courtesy of Google Images

Item of the Day

I love when style equates to comfort, which is why these Fortasse jersey sneakers from Adidas by Stella McCartney are today's Item of the Day.

Item of the Day 9.18.2010 by girlseeksstyle! featuring flat sneakers

Adidas by Stella McCartney Fortasse jersey sneakers, $130
Adidas by Stella McCartney Fortasse jersey sneakers, $130

Capes

After all my blabbering about fall wardrobes, you can probably tell that I'm quite excited for the leaves to turn. It isn't the cold weather that I love, but the great fashion that comes out around this time. One of my favorite fall pieces is the cape--so simple, so versatile, so sleek. I know capes frighten a lot of people, but there is no reason for that! You don't have to be a model to pull one off--they're flattering and can easily up the style factor of a basic outfit. It's like any other piece--find the cut and length that works for you. Complete the look with some chic leather gloves and you're all set.

Capes by girlseeksstyle! featuring a check coat

nna Blue Cape, 450 GBP
3.1 Phillip Lim Mohair and wool-blend check cape, $1,100
Stella McCartney Wool-blend cape, $1,445
Wool-blend cape with leather trim, 3.1 Phillip Lim

Lovely Shoutout

I am currently drooling over Proenza Schouler's show at New York Fashion Week. What a lovely collection. Thanks to Vogue.es for showing these (& more) great runway shots--take a look for yourself!

Bite-Sized Art: Tiny Showcase

"Art is the elimination of the unnecessary"-Pablo Picasso

As an art lover, I am constantly trying to find unique pieces--if not to buy, then at least to liven up my computer desktop. Tiny Showcase is one of my favorite online art sources. The site is a collective of limited edition prints in miniature size, updated every Tuesday. The prints are super affordable, ranging between $5-$20, making this a great way to collect some original art. A portion of each piece sold is donated to a certain charity (each artist picks a charity to highlight), which makes this deal even sweeter.

"For every field, there's a mole" by Caroline Hwang
January 6, 2009

"A Blazoning of Arms" by Jez Burrows
March 23, 2010

"What Cheer? Brigade" by William Schaff And The What Cheer? Brigade
May 21, 2010