Fa la la la la la la la Lucite

I know, I know, I know - winter has only begun!  But I am super excited about a little trend that's popping up in shoes - lucite.  Mostly because it reminds me of a certain poolside photoshoot with a certain Marilyn Monroe.  There's also this little beauty that doesn't pack the punch of the Lanvins - they are on my spring/summer wishlist.

Happy dressing, people.

Little Black Everythings

One of the first things I ask people when they propose a wardrobe overhaul is "do you have all your little black everythings?"  Okay, I don't actually ask that question because it's totally annoying.  The main idea being that you can live in your basic blacks.  Confession: I wear black head to toe ALMOST EVERY DAY.  And day in, day out it's the same boring stuff that I get compliments on.  Over.  And over.  And over again.

"Okay, Ivy.  Prioritize my little black everythings."
Note - this is for the ladies.  I'll do one for the gents someday.

1. Black pumps.  Mid-heel.  Especially in  shoes - you get what you pay for.  Consider saving $300-$500 if buying new.
2. Slim black pant.  Personally I prefer something cut right above the ankle.  Many people think this is "trendy" but if you look through fashion history, they're wrong.  For someone with a stockier build I would suggest a straight leg.  I personally avoid synthetic fabrics beyond 20%.
3.  Black cardigan.  Merino wool is invincible, if you're allergic a silk/cotton blend is a good substitute.
4. Black pencil skirt.  I've heard raves about Dolce and Gabbana's, once I live in the same house as my husband (really) this will be the thing I start saving for.
5. Black crew neck sweater.  See specs at cardigan.

This actually sums up my work wardrobe.  I'm confident anyone can revamp their entire look, closet, LIFE by having well-fitted (like by a tailor) high quality (like save your money) pieces.

RANT - I know that everyone has a budget they want to stick to when shopping.  In my opinion the basics are the thing you should splurge on - and that includes TAILORING - because you'll wear that black _____ a million times.  It's worth the dough.  You can thank me in 10 years when you've finally blown the back seam in your Dolce skirt.

Happy dressing, people.

How the Hell do You Wear Camo?!

I just wanted to take a moment this morning to delve into a trend I've been skeptical about all fall (note how it's almost winter).  Finally, I've decided I'm in.  In part because of the adorable picture above (courtesy of Scott Schuman), and also credited to a gentleman at work who cheekily mixes a slim camo pant in with his work wardrobe - topped with a v-neck sweater and tie, finished with suede oxfords.

Okay but, "how the hell do I wear camo?!"  With big prints, crazy proportions, and generally any new uncharted territory in fashion I play it safe.  We take our trends in baby steps.  First - try it back to the classic black pieces you have in your wardrobe - black t, black cardigan, black pump, black bag... Yeah, yeah it sounds completely boring.  But you simply can't fuck it up starting this way.  Then slip in a pop of color.  Once you' re feeling confident you've mastered civilian camo, I endorse you to mix in ANOTHER PRINT.  I particularly like the idea of a tiny pink floral, red plaid, or a pretty white windowpane.  The trick is - don't look like this guy.

Happy dressing, people.