Hot Child in the City

 Unlike most New Yorkers, I actually enjoy Manhattan in the summer. It's quieter, there's less traffic, and the warm city evenings feel romantic and sexy.  I don't mind a Sunday afternoon at the beach, but I prefer to see the sunset over the city skyline.  A loose white dress like this one from MLM is perfect for cocktails al fresco on a humid, sticky night.  I love how off-the-shoulder designs leave room for lots of glamorous jewelry. I have rekindled my 90s obsession with chokers and I love the way this gold one looks with giant earrings.  Wishing everyone a hot and sexy summer whether it's here, at the beach, or on a yacht in Capri. Xoxo 

Dress: MLM, Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell, Earrings: NastyGal, Choker: NastyGal (similar), Initial Necklaces: (212) 956-2800 for inquiries), Rings: Erickson Beamon (ExcessoriesExpert@gmail.com to order), Clutch: Vintage (similar)

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Hooray Crochet

We've charmed in chiffon, we've lounged in linen, and we've lured in lace, but this summer, it's time to say "Yes WAY!" to crochet.  Hailing from the counterculture of the late 60's and holding strong into the 70's, this granny-chic fabric is a groovy breath of fresh air in a sea of uptight, "clean line" styles.  I acknowledge that a full-crochet rainbow dress may be too aggressive for some, but there are plenty of more subtle options (such as a white dress with crochet trim or a crochet vest to be worn over a button down blouse or shirtdress) that you can choose.  You can avoid looking like a member of the That 70's Show cast by  pairing these kitschy knitted pieces with modern accessories (like a moto-inspired cross-body bag)...or embrace the excessively retro movement and commit to a Jackie Burkhart moment with a boho bag and platforms.  Your choice. Crochet pieces can be found at all price points from Miu Miu to H&M, or search Etsy for the authentic vintage  selection!

Dress: Rat & Boa (Sold out, but here is a similar idea and  here is a similar version from Etsy), Clutch: Love Birds LA from The Daily Shoppe (for sale TODAY ONLY!!), Sandals: Gucci (Mother's Day gift from the best husband!), Earrings: Erickson Beamon, Rings: Arme De L'AMour and Saint Laurent

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Sleepy in Seattle

I spent the past few days in Seattle with my husband. He had a conference there for work, so after my mom graciously offered to babysit, I jumped at the chance to tag along! I can't even remember the last time I spent so much time alone and it was amazing. I'm sure my fellow mamas can relate. Normally an uber ride to and from work (where I'm likely working from my phone) is the only "me" time I get. There's always something that needs to be worked on or some cutie tugging at my leg. I LOVE the hustle and bustle of my life, but I'll relish any moment of peace I get! 

Because the hubs was busy with his conference, I enjoyed visiting the breathtaking Chihuly Gardens, exploring Pike Place Market (including a visit to the world's first Starbucks), a bit of shopping (found the best jeans at Abercrombie--who knew!?), catching up with a couple of old friends, and lastly and most importantly, eating take-out Chinese in my hotel robe while watching Fifty Shades of Grey on PayPerView. #BLESSED. Now we're headed to LA for a couple meetings, a little more relaxation, and to visit family and friends. Keep up with me on Instagram for the play-by-play! 

These photos were taken at Kerry Park. It was amazing to see a panoramic view of beautiful Seattle. This outfit feels so 1970 Ali MacGraw. As you probably know by now, I live for a retro chic moment. This fabulous boho dress is a brand new addition to my closet. I love an easy-breezy dress to toss on and dress up or down with accessories. This frock is BCBG via Bandits Of Colour, a great private selection of discounted designer pieces based out of Brooklyn. Contact BanditsOfColour@gmail.com for shopping inquiries.

Dress: BCBG via Bandits of Colour, Hat: Forever 21, Gladiator Sandals: Penny Loves Kenny, Necklace: Erickson Beamon (e-mail me ExcessoriesExpert@gmail.com to purchase), Clutch: The Daily Shoppe (available soon!)

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Arden Wohl Does Vegan Footwear: Moral, Chic, and Yom Kippur-Friendly

Taking a cue from Cinderella who was ahead of her time with her cruelty-free, vegan glass slippers, I danced into a delightful pair of sparkling peep toe booties with a Cinderella-style lucite heel for the Arden Wohl x Cri de Coeur Fall 2014 Preview Party. Derek Blasberg hosted an informal supper with delicious vegan fare and margaritas at Hecho en Dumbo to celebrate the collection.

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Clockwise from top left: my vegan-friendly ensemble for the night (faux fur, of course!); Christopher Bollen, Derek Blasberg and Nicky Hilton; me with my dear friend, Lauren Hart Bochner;  yummy vegan appetizers

There were beautiful performances from Eleanor Friedberger and both Ariel Pink and Jorge Elbecht, but the fabulous vegan shoes stole the show! Atop each table sat glass domes filled with adorable printed pompom flats, chic jewel-tone booties, and vintage-inspired t-strap heels. The patterns, colors, and styles are all fresh and fun and add a stylish pizazz to a fall/winter wardrobe! If you can't wait to invest in some cruelty-free fabulousness from Arden Wohl, her spring/summer collection (including my sparkle booties) is available online now!

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Additionally, I have to give a HUGE "thank you" to Arden for making a fashionable, Yom Kippur-friendly shoe!! It's time to bid farewell to those crocs and chucks. This year, I'll finally be atoning in chic heels!! Amen to that!

A photo-op with the woman of the hour, Arden Wohl

Valentine's Day Gift Guide for the Anti-Valentine's Day Man

Hey all of you men out there, all 2 of you that read my blog (Hi, Dad!)....listen up: Valentine's Day is around the corner.  We know you think it's stupid and overrated, but we want to feel a little extra special on February 14th and if you do your job right and make us happy, you'll be happy too.  You know what they say, "Happy wife, happy life." Because, "Happy husband, happy life" doesn't rhyme, and let's get real, it makes no sense.  Here is my UNBELIEVABLY reasonably priced Valentine's Day gift guide so you won't break the bank on this "meaningless, man-made, Hallmark holiday." Ladies, you may want to just send your man an anonymous note with the item(s) you choose.  Men don't do subtlety.  

1. Juliette Has a Gun 'Purse Bullet' in Miss Charming ($75): A fragrance is always a romantic gift, and this one smells so irresistible, it promises to cause men fall to their knees. I'm a big fan of the badass purse bullet because it's not only portable, but it looks mysterious and cool.  It also comes with extra fragrance so you can recharge. 

2. Erickson Beamon Rocks Gemstone Collar Necklace (on sale for $134): This is the perfect gift for the lady who is looking to liven up her wardrobe with some excessively fabulous jewels.  You'd be surprised to know that this necklace is actually versatile and can work with almost any outfit.  It's also on sale and we know you like a good deal.

3. ASOS Leather Touch Screen Bow Gloves ($33.33): This is a very safe bet.  It says, "I wanted to get you something nice and also practical" without forcing you to spend more than you would on a week's worth of Starbucks lattes.  This is a great gift for the anti-anti-anti-Valentine's Day man to give.  Everyone needs gloves, and these days, everyone needs touch screen gloves...let's face it, we're all addicted to our iPhones. The bow detail is subtle, but very cute and sets this pair apart from all the others.

4. Zara Lip Print Scarf ($29.90): Does your lady get very into the theme of the holiday? Seize the opportunity and give a more literal Valentine's Day gift! This adorable scarf is covered in kisses and soon you will be too! 

5. Sixtrees Jeweled Picture Frame ($18.99): It touches every woman's heart when a man takes the time to do something sweet and sentimental for her.  Print out a photo of the two of you (one  you know she already likes...no "fat angles" please) and put it in a beautiful frame and you will be a golden god. 

6. Cheeky Teacup ($16): The perfect gift for the woman who always talks about how "stressed out" she is: the new mom, the 60-hour-work-week woman, the busy bride-to-be, etc.. Is it so wrong to hide booze in your morning tea? Takes the edge off... 

Note: This post was inspired by my husband, the ultimate Anti-Valentine's Day Man, who strategically proposed to me on February 15th so he would never have to celebrate Valentine's Day. He only gives me "engagement anniversary, non-Valentine's Day" cards and gifts and flowers the day after everyone else's love fest.  He gets a good deal on the post-Valentine's Day clearance.  How romantic.