On My Radar: Late Summer/Early Fall 2011

 Maybe I'm getting a bit ahead of myself, but autumn is my favorite season other than winter, and I can never wait to shop for new fall clothes.  Whether seen on the streets and envied, already in my closet but I just can't have too many, or a new obsession, these are the top items I can't wait to flaunt for the rest of the summer and into fall.

1. THE BODYCON SKIRT

Urban Outfitters

So versatile and flattering - I can't get enough of the curve-hugging silhouette.  As cute with a cozy, chunky sweater as with a slinky tank top or slouchy t-shirt, it's one of my favorite summer-to-fall transition pieces.

2. THE CHUNKY SWEATER

bluefly.com

Fall is my favorite season, and cozy oversize knits bring to mind crunching through fallen leaves and the smoky smell that's always in the air.  I have an oversize cable-knit crewneck that I love, but the weight of this one leaves freedom for layering.  Also, the cut wakes up any outfit - skirts, jeans, or leggings.

3. BOHO ACCESSORIES

pinkmascara.com

The perfect accessories for creating a carefree, effortless vibe.  Since it's not my style to go head-to-toe Woodstock, I'll pair feathered earrings, necklaces, and headbands with edgier pieces like skinny jeans, bodycon skirts (another favorite), or pumps.  I think it would create a really cool "West Side bohemian with money" look.

4. ROMANTIC VINTAGE DETAILS

For the reckless dreamer who believes in fairytale endings.  I love accessories like cameo pendants because they can be used to bring a touch of vintage charm to a casual outfit or to complete a vibe of ethereal romance.  Other details I love are ruffles, lace, and soft colors like pink and cream.  I actually have an antique cameo pendant that belonged to my grandmother, and I think it might be real ivory.  I've been meaning to get it re-set in gold and get a long chain for it.

5. THE RIDING BOOT

A little softer than tough-girl motorcycle boots, this classic style still lends conviction to any outfit.  They blend as seamlessly with ultra-feminine skirts and dresses as with chunky knits, crisp blazers, and cardigans.  I love using boots to transition my slouchy t-shirts and miniskirts from summer to fall.  I'm especially partial to this style since I used to ride horses, and I love the timeless sophistication of the English riding dress.

6. THE ARTFUL PUMP

Urban Outfitters

A creatively-shaped heel turns the classic shoe into a work of art.  I'm lusting after a velvet pair in a rich jewel tone, but I have yet to find the perfect ones.  But I'll never say no to suede.  A straight chunky heel would be cute, too.  I already have a pair with similarly-shaped heels in patent leather with peep toes, but the last time I checked, there was no such thing as too many pairs of high heels.

7. THE BOLD T-SHIRT

Urban Outfitters

Whether topped with a "Don't mess with me" saying like this one, a favorite rocker, or a gritty urban graphic, girlie girls need not apply.  Used to toughen any outfit and send the message that the wearer is unapologetically streetwise.  I love the slouchy cut of this particular tee, and the "ALCOHOL CAFFEINE NICOTINE" saying would be perfect for rough days, but since I don't really smoke or drink, I'm not sure if wearing it would be lame false advertising on my part.  Personally, I would love a shirt with Bob Dylan on it, since he's one of my major artistic influences.  I also love t-shirts and tank tops with softer, artful watercolor prints and the like, but I consider them a separate category.