The 5 W's - Alexis Bittar Cuff

Love this hand painted peacock cuff as much as I do? Click on the photo to get one for yourself!

A few weeks ago, I had the extreme pleasure of meeting jewellery designer Alexis Bittar. He's the au currant designer who is beloved by Cameron Diaz and who features some of the most amazing women in his ad campaigns - Lauren Hutton and Joan Collins anyone? The newest muse has yet to be revealed, but I suspect it'll be someone just as legendary... Catherine Deneuve perhaps?

Listening to Alexis talk about his journey from 13-year-old kid selling vintage jewellery in St. Marks Place in New York City to becoming one of just a handful jewllery of designers to win the CFDA Accessory Designer of the Year award was so incredibly inspiring. The fact that he is one of the kindest and most down to earth people I've ever met was the cherry on top.

After such an exhilarating meeting, I felt I simply had to have a momento, something to remind me of the depth of inspiration that he someone managed to impart that day. I immediately chose this marvy peacock bangle and every time I wear it, I'm reminded that if you're lucky enough to find your calling and you never, never lose sight of it, your dreams really can come true.

So, this post is a bit of a thank you to Alexis. Thank you for being such a committed and truly brilliant designer and, even more than that, thank you for leading by example and being such a lovely, lovely person.

Love, P

P.S. I'm not an autograph kind of person, but meeting Alexis had such a profound effect on me, I couldn't help myself. Of course, he was kind enough to oblige.

Lust or Must? Sperry Top-Spider Pelican Boot

Sperry Top-Sider Pelican Boot, $69

My trusty Target rain boots are on the verge of collapse and I need a new pair, stat! Although I bought my old boots for a fraction of the cost of the ones above, and they lasted for almost 5 years, I feel like I am in need of an upgrade. These Sperry's have a fleece lining (yummy) and a super cute, yet classic, print.

What do you think? Should I stick with what I know (Target and a twenty dollar bill), or take the plunge (and make a splash!) in these pretty Pelicans?

Love, A

poll by twiigs.com

The Uniform: Brilliant or Just Plain Boring?

For those of you who don't have busy schedules, aren't on a budget, are always on time, and never feel the need to multitask, this post may not be for you. (Feel free to skip to the bottom and vote in the poll). For everyone else, please read on.

Since having two children, dressing myself has gone from being one of the best parts of my day to one of my least favorite. (Far above changing diapers but well below having my morning coffee). I have roughly twenty minutes to get ready each morning, including hair and makeup, so needless to say I am always in a rush. How is a girl supposed to look fab on that kind of time crunch? There is no time to ponder the perfect outfit, no time for creativity, and certainly no time to play dress-up. Inevitably I end up running out of time, coming up with an outfit that is either super uncomfortable, or just plain unflattering. (I am too embarrassed to tell you what I am wearing right now but I will give you a hint: it rhymes with poga yants - absolutely horrifying!)

Kate Moss in "uniform"

In an effort to solve this dilemma I looked to some of the most fashionable women in history and dissected their 'drobes. I realized that they each had their own formula, a uniform if you will. Audrey Hepburn always wore a black top or dress with ballet flats, Jackie O consistently sported oversized sunglasses, pearls, and a crew neck, and Kate Moss (see photos above) often dons skinny jeans, chunky boots, and some type of faux fur coat. Creating an everyday uniform could be the answer to my problems. In my case, this uniform would be a variation of pieces that are washable (oversized cotton tops), fashionable (cute ankle or knee boots), and active-able (stretchy skinny pants for kneeling, bending, chasing, etc.). I think I would be (consistently) better dressed, and it would bring serenity to my morning routine!

So what do you think? Am I being a lazy fashionista, or am I on to something?

poll by twiigs.com

Love, A

A's Picks...for Understated Color Blocking

Crewnecks & Scoopnecks by Vince
Platforms by 7 For All Mankind

I love that bright pinks and oranges are all the rage right now, but when it comes to color blocking sometimes less can be so much more. I have always loved brown and black together, it is very understated yet so chic. The sweater is a bit of a splurge (it is Vince, $275) but the bags are all under $15o and the belt is only $8! (Click on each piece to go directly to their respective retailers.) These pieces prove that you can follow this trend (color blocking) without looking like you stepped out of an 80's music video. Finish the look with a candy-colored lip and a pair of skinny black jeans and you are all set!

Love, A

Lust or Must? Joe's Jeans Chelsea Slim Fit in Red Orange

Joe's Jeans Chelsea Ultra Slim Fit in Red Orange, $158

Loving the color. Loving the cut. Hating the price.

Thoughts?

Love, A

poll by twiigs.com