Happiness is a Pair of Silk Shorts

I love nothing more than shopping for vacation-wear.  It's my own little time to play out my traveling fantasies and there's something, oh, let's call is "zen-like" about envisioning what exactly it is I'm going to wear out on the beach.  Or exploring a quaint little downtown.  Or perhaps noshing on lobster and sipping fruity frozen drinks.  You get my point.  This past weekend I was able to visit one of my very favorite boutiques Standard Style in Kansas City.  Their selection is absolutely jaw-dropping and the one thing I kept picking up were silk shorts!  My favorite by far were the floral printed Karina Grimaldi beauties you see below.  I love them for so many reasons - although they feel as comfy as my favorite pajama bottoms, they are structured enough where they don't look like it.   I also loved the print - those big, pink flowers, didn't feel too "tropical" - like so many florals can - and were just down right pretty.   I did not purchase these babies (I have enforced very strict rules for buying resort-wear, the first being that I don't allow myself to purchase anything until 30 days before my trip - unless the item is on sale.  Or it's showing there's only one left at Shopbop.)   But I will be for sure tracking down a pair in approximately ten days ;)
THE CULPRIT

Other silky shorts I'd wear in a heart-beat...

Starting at Top Left-
Anna Sui - Floral Print Silk Crepe and Lace ShortsMulberry - Eyelet Silk ShortsStella McCartney - Deckchair Striped Cotton and Silk ShortsElizabeth and James - Colby Silk Trimmed Brush Twill ShortsMarni - Contrast Silk Print ShortsJil Sander - Ello Striped Silk Shorts

A Tan Like Veruschka's

I'm dying to get somewhere warm and wear sundresses and bikinis.  And when it comes to vintage beachware inspiration, there really is no one better to look to than 70's supermodel Veruschka.  With an omni-present tan, sun streaked hair, and always-vibrant clothing choices, there are so many looks that make me want to revamp my wardrobe so it's a bit more retro. 

From L to RAvec Moderation, Print Scarf Ankle Wrap SandleAnna Sui, Printed Silk Chiffon KaftanL'Agence, Crepe JumpsuitKenneth Jay Lane, Beaded Resin NecklaceStella McCartney, Hawaiian Print ScarfL.Space, Stardust Riviera One Piece Swimsuit



Paint by Numbers

I'm officially craving spring and summer attire.  Bright colors are always a go-to, and last year, I sadly didn't really partake in the color blocking trend that graced many of the Spring/Summer 2011 runways.   So when my little sissy Brooke suggested I write a blog on bold color combinations I was anxious to see what I missed out on.  And in all honesty, the more I searched, the more I fell in love with the color blocking trend.  Pairing unexpected hues together (think pink+red, kellygreen+fuschia, coral+tiffanyblue, anyneon+anyneon) can work amazingly well - it's just all about balance.  I also found that when done correctly, the trend can give off a great 60's feel.   This isn't a trend that everyone is about to go try, so for those who are hesitant, I broke colorblocking up into levels.

LEVEL 1 - Just a Splash

One of my favorite ways to brighten up an outfit is by carrying a bright purse or wearing bright shoes.  If the colors contrast enough, it's most certainly color-blocking, regardless of the small scale.  I love how in the robin's egg blue in the clutch below contrasts with the bright coral.   As you become more brave, add more color.  A good starting point is wearing a neutral dress and adding accessories that pop - just make sure accessories all different shades, and all bright.  

LEVEL 2 - Built In Pieces

Sometimes, it's easiest to leave the styling up to the experts.   Many people shy away from color, especially non-traditional combinations.  If you're hesitant to try this look, buy shoes, a bag or a shirt where the color blocking is already done for you.  This is a perfect way to get your toes wet without fully committing. The Topshop wedges below and the Chloe envelope clutch are both amazing examples.

LEVEL 3 - Keep Hues the SameThe main goal of color blocking is to notice, above all else, the color combinations.   People have been mixing bright, but related hues forever, and although it's not as shocking as some of the color blocking we see today, it's still a beautiful look.  Make sure shades are similar, and you'll be just fine.  The dusty coral and tiffany blue blouse are not at all unexpected together, but they're still visually pleasing. 

LEVEL 4 - Fully Commit to BrightsIf you need no convincing on this trend, here you go.  Pair colors that traditionally clash, but the key is to make sure they have the same intensity.  I'm loving the bright pink and bright red - they work together because they're equally vibrant.   In art class, they teach you that colors directly across the color wheel from each other compliment each other best.  Well, this is about doing just the opposite.  

 
LEVEL 5 - 60's Style & Extra ObviousWhen dresses or shirts are divided geometrically by color, you've gone as far as there is to go.  This is a trend that was big back int he 60's, and the uber obvious retro-look is so refreshing.  Below are looks from (l to r) Herve Leger, Stella McCartney, Diane Von Furstenberg, and BCBG.  The creative color combos and literal "blocking" are what we're seeing a lot of this year. 

Most Wanted

I'm wanting to break out the sweaters and do a lilttle shopping.  This past week has been gorgeous, with temps near 90, but in all honesty, could I please just have some cooler weather so I can go shopping for fall clothes?  Below is what I'm coveting most.

See by Chloe / Rag & Bone / Etoile Isabel Marant

Michael Michael Kors / J Crew / Jil Sander

Belle Sigerson Morrison / Topshop / Old Navy

American Apparel Vintage / Addidas by Stella McCartney / Burberry

Rimmel in Chocolatine / Diane von Furstenberg "Diane" / Chanel in Quartz

The World in a Grain of Sand

Of all things, sand, has been my inspiration as of late.  From the its soft earthy hues, to the varying textures, I love everything about it, and interestingly enough it translates beautifully into fashion.   Since it comes in such a variety of shades (from powdery white to burnt sugar brown) it can work on any complexion and is the perfect simple alternative when white and black become too blah.

Chanel Nail Colour in Parteculier $24
Topshop Sage Cornelli Embroidered Blouse £45
Michael Michael Kors Suede Shorts $250
Valentino Lace & Satin Platform Pumps $795
Stella McCartney Woven Faux Leather Clutch $995
Jean Yu Eden Silk Chiffon Bra $320

...Oui, Oui, Fashion Week in Paris...

Are you guys sick of Fashion Week yet?   Me neither.  In fact, I've been rather devoutly pouring over all things Paris Fashion Week and the show that has left me most mesmerized would have to be Stella McCartney's.   It's sleek lines, and minimalist looks stood out in a see of complicated elegance.  But that's not to say McCartney's line was lacking in oppulence.  It embraced the glamour that has come to define F/W 2011, but in a clean, experimental sort of way.  I loved the voluminous sleeves, the simple colors, and boxy blazers.  And the sweet little polka-dots, how could I not mention those?! It puts me in mind of a Picasso painting - a little theatrical and exaggerated, but a look distinctly it's own.