Loeffler Randall Handbags

A few years ago, I bought the most fabulous camel clutch by Loeffler Randall that I carry all the time.  It even has a beautiful gold lining that is like a surprise every time I open it.  But then I never saw any more bags from Loeffler Randall.  Until now. 
I am so thrilled that they have brought back handbags, in the form of a fantastic Fall collection.  Each one is beautiful, and so detailed, and really my only issue is deciding which to get, and wishing there were more!  Here are my favorite picks from the line. 

The red rider bag above is my top pick to get as of now.  But the more I look, the more I change my mind!  They are all so fabulous - well done, LR team!! 

*images courtesy of loeffler randall

In Search of: The Chambray Shirt

Most people that know my personal style know that I am not a button-down girl.  It's just not me and when I do wear one, I almost feel like I am wearing a costume!  However, I think I might break that rule in getting a chambray shirt.  I keep seeing them and liking the idea of wearing them in non-traditional ways - tucked into or tied with a cute skirt, over a dress with a belt... so many ways to mix it up.  Here are a few that I like. 

 Madewell's boy shirt

 A traditional Western - also from Madewell

 Lighter chambray, by J.Crew

 Gap's Western shirt, in a darker wash

Current/Elliott

*images courtesy of madewell, j.crew, gap, and shopbop.com

Friday's Favorite Look 7.13

Who What Wear featured this look on Clemence Poesy as their "look of the day" this week, highlighting the studded clutch she is carrying.  But I couldn't look away from this fabulous red dress!  As a girl that loved having an LRD in my closet, I loved seeing this modern and feminine Valentino dress on her. 

*image courtesy of who what wear

The New Kenzo

I was delighted to hear last Fall that the dynamic duo behind Opening Ceremony (a must-shop in NYC), Carol Lim and Umberto Leon, were taking over as creative directors for the French line Kenzo.  It's always exciting to see new blood and fresh designs on the runway.  I loved catching these fantastic images of their Spring/Summer line on Net-a-Porter, along with an interview with the designers. 

The first and fourth looks are my fave - I love the dresses layered under third pieces to take them into Fall.  I can't wait to see what comes next from Kenzo with these two in charge! 

*images courtesy of net-a-porter

Backless

Lately I have been drawn to some great tops and dresses that have open backs or back details.  It's a fantastic way to have an extra something special on an item that seems pretty standard from the front.  Of course, sometimes it does present challenges with wearing the right bra... but that's the price we pay for style I guess!  Here are some recent faves...

 The seashell print on this Steven Alan dress won me over before I even saw the sassy open back.  Perfect for casual summer events.  

 I also bought this top at Steven Alan, although it's not their own line.  I love the keyhole in the back, and this cute print is perfect back to white denim.  

 I have this Madewell dress in a different print, but this orange one is great too.  The criss-cross back sits perfectly where your bra strap does... so easy to wear! 

 I have worn this Alice + Olivia dress to a bridal shower and a wedding - so beautiful and easy to wear casual or dressed up.  

 Here is a close-up of the back - sheer fabric, with a tie at the neck and then open to the waist.  

 I found this Funktional cobalt top at the fabulous boutique Acre/SF and loved the buttons all the way down the back.  

Also by Funktional, this fun printed dress from Mira Mira (another go-to shop here in SF) has a great mid-back cutout... a fun surprise when you take off your cardi!

Sparkle and Celebrate

I am probably repeating myself, but I love sparklers on the 4th of July!  There's nothing more fun than (safely) waving them around and watching the bright light swirl in the air.  I would much rather have sparklers than set off fireworks myself any day.   And I love keeping them around for parties anytime of the year.  Happy 4th of July, everyone!!

*image via pinterest

Let's Get Patriotic

I always think it's fun to be festive for the 4th and rock your red, white, and blue.  It's easy to pull from your existing wardrobe and try some new combinations to get into the holiday spirit.  Here are some ideas that are similar to what I plan to wear this week! 

 I love this sequin tank from J.Crew - every time I wear it, I feel festive so I think it's a great pick for a more subtle holiday outfit, back to white denim.  

 I have a similar red striped maxi dress to this Gap one, from Old Navy that I plan to wear on the 4th - casual and comfortable for hitting up some BBQ's! 

Go overboard by pairing this navy and white Madewell top with red jeans.  It's the one time of year that I don't mind wearing my red jeans in this most traditional way!  

What are you planning to wear for the 4th?  Get ready to break out your red, white, and blue!