C3 Collection Cashmere Bow Intarsia Crewneck Sweater

One word:  Cashmere.  Yummmm.  I'm adoring this loose grey sweater because it is effortlessly chic!  The fashion world calls this the "boyfriend fit" because the fabric isn't clinging to every inch of you...yet I call this the "normal fit".  The simple bow detail on front isn't too childish and you can pair this sweater with jeans, slacks, skirts.  And simply put your hair up in a bun and you're ready! 

Picture credit:  http://cdn.is.bluefly.com/mgen/Bluefly/prodImage.ms?productCode=314023401&width=340&height=408

-The Fashion Butterfly

7 For All Mankind Jeans-Skinny Sateen in Sapphire

'Tis the Season for Christmas trees, Christmas lights, and Holiday parties...not looking forward to donning a dress and showing off your pasty white, Oregonian legs?  Have I got the solution for you!  I adore these 7 For All Mankind Jeans-Skinny Sateen in Sapphire, not only because they are PANTS and not the typical how-short-can-you-go-and-still-call-it-"fashion"-dress, but because they are BLUE!  Not only blue, but sapphire.  

 Picture credit: http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/7-for-all-mankind-jeans-skinny-sateen-in-sapphire?ID=574277&PartnerID=LINKSHARE&cm_mmc=LINKSHARE-_-SITM-_-n-_-n&LinkshareID=BolFSqx4S4U-CRQLu4FiBW98Ky2cB5mSlQ

At first glance they seem to resemble the classic skinny jean but upon closer inspection you will notice that they are a cotton/spandex blend, which is very forgiving while gorging out on holiday treats.  I almost don't want to call them "pants" but trousers because they are that sophisticated.  Pair with an airy blouse or sparkly top and heels, or dress it down by wearing a cute cotton shirt or sweater with kitten heels or flats...I am getting SO excited just writing about these jeans!

-The Fashion Butterfly

Anthropologie Dipped Nougat Coat

I have received the Anthropologie clothing magazine ever since I was not even interested in fashion (ack, hard to believe there was ever such a time), leading me to believe it was my mother who secretly fueled my love of fashion and design.  Through the years I have found a few overpriced items within Anthropologie’s pages but nothing I would ever actually purchase…that is until this three-quarter sleeved, cape-like Dipped Nougat Coat graced the pages with all it’s splendor.  

Picture Credit:  http://images.anthropologie.com/is/image/Anthropologie/21179031_024_b

The khaki color is uber-flattering while the thick belt cinches (pun intended and relished) the deal.  Two huge front pockets are chic yet practical allowing one to hide cold hands, or even a small book!  The dark brown trim running along the entire coat emits a clean, put-together look; and the matching over-sized buttons complement the trim exquisitely.  It appears that this coat literally soaked up the rich chocolatey-brown block of color and gives this coat a real edge.  Recently on sale for $299.95 through Anthropologie.com 

-The Fashion Butterfly

Kate Spade New York "Tribecca" Pants

I am among the first to admit my obsession with Lucille Ball and the 1950’s...yes the cars are cool, the diners retro, and the manners polite but the fashion was extremely polished and put-together.  You would never find the likes of ripped fish-net stocking Kesha, or dress-so-short-you-can-prove-you’re-a girl Snookie.  Living in the 1950’s America you would find in tact stockings, below-the-knee dresses, and trousers that actually are trousers and not super-low-rise-butt-hanging-out-jeans.  The style was conservative and classy yet very exciting and fun.  Take Lucille Ball in one of my favorites, “The Long Long Trailer” in the scene where her beloved trailer gets stuck in the mud in the middle of the woods at night and Lucy is wearing an ever-popular plaid/flannel shirt tucked into a pair of dark-rinse, belted cropped denim, with classic black flats; I adore this outfit and have ever since I first saw this movie in middle school.  In tribute to this timeless look, I give to you Kate Spade New York’s “Tribecca” pants.   

Picture Credit:  http://g-lvl3.nordstromimage.com/imagegallery/store/product/Large/17/_6526277.jpg

Super edgy and oozing with classic 50’s style, these black pants sport gold zip pockets and a side-zip closure!  The perfect fit is within reach with a polyester/wool/spandex material which will provide structure yet also forgiving.  The only thing I would alter about this pair of sensational pants is the back pockets…from the back they look quite boring as one would expect their cousin’s cousin’s graduation to be.  I would be delighted with gold zipped pockets on the rear like the front, and belt loops…so I suppose that is two things I would change about these pants.  But overall, they are timeless and classic, pairing conservativeness with fashion…IT IS POSSIBLE!!

-The Fashion Butterfly

French Connection Pleated Blouse

Forgive me for sticking to the classics lately, continuing with this eye-pleasing French Connection Pleated Blouse.  The contours are clean and tailored; the turtleneck/sleeveless combination very attractive.  I am obsessed with the crisp white, structured lines and pleating and the built-in neck scarf is totally chic.  I have been a French Connection admirer for years, and to this day they prove to be delivering the best quality and style.  Don this blouse and you will immediately have the beginning fixing for a fantastic outfit—for day or night.

Picture Credit: http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/french-connection-pleated-blouse?ID=566632&PartnerID=LINKSHARE&cm_mmc=LINKSHARE-_-SITM-_-n-_-n&LinkshareID=BolFSqx4S4U-wcBNV28PpLhGKZiJmHt8Qw

-The Fashion Butterfly

Lillybee Claire in Peach

As a forever fan of flats, I am super excited that so many companies are now creating fashionable flats, something very new to designer shoe labels.  An excellent example of stylish flats are the Lillybee Claire in Peach.  They reek of classic style and sophistication.  The chocolate brown combined with peach is so yummy to look at, and the bow is too much...LOVE IT! 

Leather outer, comfortable rubber insole and "rubber-infused leather sole" create an uber-luxe experience for your feet.  At $168 retail, you know you are wearing designer but many online outlet/discount companies offer these classic beauties for under a hundred.  Pair with shorts, skinny jeans, dresses, anything!  Such a versatile piece.

Picture credit:  http://www.simplysoles.com/product/1654

 -The Fashion Butterfly

Marc by Marc Jacobs House of Marc Natasha Satchel

I need a new handbag to replace my Coach Carly, wanting an equally crafted and stylish piece.  Look no further than Marc by Marc Jacobs House of Marc Natasha satchel (in Deep Plum for me).  

The deep plum color is gorgeous and almost looks like a burnt brown (I always seem to gravitate towards brown hues) while the supple leather and elegant, classic Marc Jacobs hardware complete the bag.  There are handles for arm-carrying, and a 22-inch adjustable shoulder strap for an entirely different look.

This is a fabulous handbag which I am lusting over, and PiperLime has it on sale for $277.99...a welcome discount from the $398 retail price.

P.S.  I fell in love with this handbag, then found out it is a Rachel Zoe pick as well...Excuse me!!

Picture credit: http://www.pursepage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/marc-by-marc-jacobs-house-of-marc-natasha-bag.jpg

-The Fashion Butterfly

Charles David Brown Distressed "Rider" Studded Boots

I adore fall fashion from the big, comfy sweaters to jackets, and even the strange and ostentatious hats.  But being the true fashionista that you are, boots are a prime staple of your fall—or any season—wardrobe, right?

Why not stray from the more simple style and try this:  an asymmetric-cut top with a studded harness strap around the ankle. Imagine strolling through downtown in these swanky Charles David leather boots. 

Picture Credit: http://resources.shopstyle.com/sim/49/76/497629e30b8a7f6f48fb6adc2b895fd0/charles-david-bluefly-boots-brown-distressed-leather-rider-studded-boots.jpg

This pair is a variation on the classic “Riding Boot”, with some updated flair and definitely deserves it’s due…Pair with dark skinny denim (try Joe’s Jeans “The Cigarette” straight leg in “Desiree” wash, joesjeans.com), with a chunky sweater or even the Burberry (or similar style) from the last post.  You’re sure to be the envy of boot-wearers everywhere.

-The Fashion Butterfly

Burberry Prorsum Cotton Trench Coat

Given the season upon us, every fashionista needs a cute, fun, flattering yet functional jacket to add to her wardrobe.  Picking the right fit/color of outerwear is a tedious yet important decision...it must hug the right places, while also be forgiving in others. 


The classic trench style is always a guaranteed hit, also a fashion staple that every woman should own...as long as it isn't too long or short; and if the hardware on the coat is overwhelming or bulky you will look heavier and much like a walking hardware store. 


Try, instead, a classic trench coat style such as Burberry's Prorsum cotton trench with an eight-button double breasted placket closure, complete with the brand's trademark "Burberry check" inside.  The buttons aren't flashy or shiny, so the amount of buttons is ok (yet if they were flashy, I'd stick with 4 or less).  Also the self-tie belt can be adjusted to fit the syle you're going for on any particular day, and this perfect length hits mid-thigh and is appropriate for shorter or taller wearer's.

Picture credit: http://cdn1.is.bluefly.com/mgen/Bluefly/prodImage.ms?productCode=315776201&width=340&height=408



Michael Kors Melton Grommet Jacket

     As soon as I laid my eyes on this Michael Kors Melton Grommet Jacket, I couldn't take them off.  With its sleek lines and classic style, this is definitely an investment jacket to be worn for years to come.  Imagine autumn with crunchy leaves and crisp air, and you step out in this gorgeous Italian-made jacket, paired with skinny jeans (try Joe's Jeans) or tailored slacks and "bottomed off" with leather boots (try Steve Madden).  You will sure to be the epitimy of class, not to mention grabbing a total bargain:  This Michael Kors Melton Grommet Jacket is on sale at Neiman Marcus for $768, more than 50% off retail.
     In this economy, you must be choosy about your investments...here is one that is worth every penny.(http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod125930030&eItemId=prod125930030&from_id=true&ecid=NMALRBolFSqx4S4U&CS_003=5630585)

Picture Credit: http://bim.shopstyle.com/pim/dc/2e/dc2e603b31e60b7c7812d60214e9a6bc_best.jpg

-The Fashion Butterfly

Christian Louboutin Show-Stoppers

Imagine picking out the perfect outfit:  beautiful designer denim, gorgeous blouse, fantastic jewelry...and then you slip these beauties on:

http://www.shoeblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Pampas-Boot.jpg



     Any fashionista's DREAM, right?!  These heart-stoppers are Christian Louboutin Pampas laser-cut Pumps from the Spring Summer 2011 collection.  AMAAAAAZING.   Not only are these pumps completely fashion-forward, they are quite the lookers...I can't get over the intricate detailing, and the ankle-breaking 6" heel, which I would applaude any woman who could successfully walk in. 

     Pair them with skinny jeans, or an equally awe-inspiring frock for an unforgettable outfit.

Sold out across the internet, the $1,395 price tag doesn’t seem to repel the adamant shoe-lover but if your eyes got huge just now reading that 4-digit price, allow me to direct your attention to “bargain” sites.  Bluefly.com is currently selling this designer label for $1,116, and sometimes lower…yet they are sold out as well.  Why not indulge yourself, GET ON THAT WAITLIST!!

-The Fashion Butterfly

Christian Dior Haute Couture Fall 2011-2012 Runway

Have you ever watched a Haute Couture runway show and thought, "who would wear that?"  Christian Dior has strayed from this runway-norm in the Haute Couture Fall 2011-2012 Runway which teemed with wearable, funky styles that are colorful, exotic, and ball-room worthy.  From patterned skirts to structured tops, to dresses you can't tear your eyes away from, Christian Dior delivers. Granted not every piece is appropriate for the street, yet the number that are is remarkable.

A couple favorites of mine, which I drool over:

Photo Credit:  http://www.thegreatwedding.com/runway-christian-dior-haute-couture-fall-20112012/christian-dior-haute-couture-fall-2011-2012-photos-20/

 Photo Credit:  http://www.thegreatwedding.com/runway-christian-dior-haute-couture-fall-20112012/christian-dior-haute-couture-fall-2011-2012-photos-22/

-The Fashion Butterfly