Pretty Polished

April 07th 2011

Bottoms Up - A Smattering of Skirts

Last night I couldn’t fall asleep so as I was thumbing through Lucky Magazine, I saw this green tulip scalloped hem skirt and fell in love. I love the kelly green but this also comes in cream and robin’s egg blue (perfect for Easter). Lauren Moffatt’s entire spring collection is absolutely darling and I love the garden theme.

Available at Lauren Moffatt

I figured I’d highlight a few skirts I’ve seen since I’m a fan of anything that doesn’t involve pants.

1. JCrew Revele Skirt -$148

I saw this in the JCrew catalog this week; the pleating detail isn’t too cheerleader-esque and the neutral shade with the detailing will go well with black silk and heels (maybe a cobalt pump for a pop of color?) for a night out.

Available at JCrew

2. Trina Turk Shaye Skirt - $248

This pleated longer skirt is right on point with the ladylike trend that’s out there. I love how Nordstroms paired this neutral shade with the amazing brightly colored print and cardigan shown here:

Available at Nordstrom or Trina Turk (in black as well)

3. Tibi Rain drop skirt - $245

You can wear this with a navy top or any of the colors in this print. It’s the same print as the raindrop shift we posted on our sales post yesterday (a little bit different coloring but you get the gist) but we love it. Tibi styled it with heavy gray leggings proving that this skirt can be worn throughout all four seasons.

Available at Cusp or Tibi

4. Topshop Yellow Belted Paperbag waist skirt - $70

Paperbag waists are one of my favorites. They are really flattering and look so great just paired with a simple t shirt. Switch out the cheap-ey looking belt for one of our own and you’re good to go.

Available at Topshop (other colors as well!)

5. Marc by Marc Jacobs Indigo Knit Skirt - $128

This one is inspired by this awesome Carven skirt (available at Barneys for $395 which I just can’t justify). I am not a big fan of denim skirts after the age of 22 but this is a more sophisticated denim for those of us starting to worry about fine lines.

Available at Bloomingdales

6. Aqua lace mini skirt - $78

A basic black lace skirt is not a bad thing to have in your collection especially for less than $80.

Available at Bloomingdales

-WH

April 08th 2011

Cross Body Bags

We’ve had a special request (we love requests) to feature the best of the “cross body” bags.

1. Rebecca Minkoff Gold Stud Rocker - $330

Both of us own this great Rebecca Minkoff for going out. One of our style inspirations, Lauren Conrad, does as well. The studs are not only good looking, but they are durable and protect the bag when it gets knocked around.

Available at Revolve Clothing

2. Olivia Harris Snake Embossed Crossbody Bag - $475

Available at Cusp

3. Rebecca Minkoff M.A.C. Clutch - $295

WH got this bag in a dark gray at a sample sale (the same one where she got LW’s RM Morning After bag) and she has worn it to death. It’s not “fancy” but it’s the perfect bag for going out, double fisting, or just wandering about during the day.

Visit Rebecca Minkoff for this great gray color (the pale peach that they have is pretty but their lighter leather bags tend to get ruined by denim and other dark inks).

Available at Bloomingdales in tons of colors or Cusp

4. Mulberry Oversized Alexa - $1,250

If you’re looking for a new day bag and you want to splurge, this Mulberry Alexa bag (named after and inspired by Alexa Chung) looks like it will last you forever. This bag comes in a ton of colors on the Mulberry website but the oak color ages so well…

Available at Net-a-Porter or Mulberry

5. Foley + Corinna Disco City Bag
$195

Revolve Clothing

The top of this bag folds over and the stap detaches so there are a few different ways you can wear it. LW has this in a tan stingray leather and wears it both day and night. It’s a great travel bag because it folds up well in a suitcase and matches most oufits. Foley + Corinna makes this in a myriad of colors (red, gold, silver, black, tan,blue - you name it) and also makes it in a large day size ($395 - $495).

6. Another Rebecca Minkoff (should we call her the queen of the cross body experience?). This is called the “Obsession Bag” it’s $295 and available at Shopbop. Yes we’re obsessed.

* A final note: If you’re lucky enough to live near a Henri Bendel (hello, NYC’ers, Michiganders, & Floridians) - there is a great bag resource at your disposal. Their bags are so cute, unique, well made, and super affordable.

- WH & LW

April 11th 2011

Pretty Polished Perfumes

My best friend TR asked if LW and I could post our favorite perfumes and I struggled with this one as I wouldn’t consider myself a connoisseur (I’m quite sensitive to smells and hate a lot of perfumes out there) but there are a few that I find appealing. I am also very bad at describing what scents smell like unless it blatantly is called vanilla so forgive me. As a side note, I am very against wearing perfume to work as I think it’s distracting (and can give your coworkers headaches if they aren’t into it) but then again, I work with mostly men in a pretty conservative job so I try not to draw attention to the fact that I wear a bra and they don’t when I don’t have to.

1. Chanel Coco Mademoiselle - $65

This would be my number one scent for the past five years. I constantly get asked what I’m wearing and it always makes me feel confident. I’m sort of obsessed and the bottle seems to last forever.

Available at department stores and Sephora

2. Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb - $75

The musky scent is quickly replacing Coco Mademoiselle as my go-to favorite. I feel sexy in this. End of story.

Sephora has an exclusive rollerball version of the scent (perfect for travel, keeping at your boyfriend’s house or for trial) and Nordstrom sells an exclusive tutu packaging version that is perfect for the counter of any girly girl.

3. Dior Miss Dior Cherie - $60

This is a much sweeter scent than the two muskier ones above but it is lovely. I always like this one on other people but sometimes get overwhelmed with more than one spritz on myself. I love the bow packaging and it’s a good option for going out to dinner with your girlfriends.

Available at department stores and Sephora

4. Ralph by Ralph Lauren - $30

This used to be what I wore everyday in college and the other day someone had it on and it reminded me of how appealing the scent was and how it’s such a great option during the day. Just a light and airy classic option that I like to have.

Available at department stores and Sephora

5. CLEAN - Shower Fresh - $38

This scent is exactly as it is titled: perfectly clean and crisp. I like it a lot on days that I don’t want to smell super strong but want to add a little something to the day. Sephora sells mini versions of the CLEAN line for $10 including the shower fresh scent as well as other light scents that are candidates for the upcoming sunny season ahead.

The entire CLEAN line is something i would try, especially the dry shampoo and hand cream. I’m tempted to buy the deodorant since I hate smelling like a baby’s bottom. I’ll keep you posted!

Available at Sephora

-WH

April 14th 2011

20% off Calypso

Calypso has 20% off of everything in stores and online with code APRIL11B. Two of our favorites are below - the Eyelet Pom Pom Dress in navy and the Chiffon Knot Dress (previously shown in pink in WH’s favorite dresses for March) shown with the Tanka belt. They have great beachwear as you gear up for summer. Enjoy!

April 15th 2011

Bag Discussion Follow Up

We just stumbled upon this great buy on Bluefly by Rebecca Minkoff. It’s large enough to be a work bag and the crossbody feature makes it easy to carry around during your long days both for work or Saturday shopping (hands free!). This bag comes in olive green, black and almond (be careful with her lighter colors as denim tends to bleed onto them but can be prevented if you get the bag treated first).

Rebecca Minkoff Mini Ricki - $285 (was $475)

Available at Bluefly

April 18th 2011

Summertime Day Dresses

Spring cannot come soon enough but come the summer I start sweating like a pig. I own a lot of basic cotton dresses for day and I’ve seen some cute ones that I thought I’d share. All of these can be paired with a springtime leather jacket or a fun blazer!

1. American Vintage Wilmington Dress - $78

I love the color, the stripes and the rope belt (see below for details). A simple and cute choice that will take you to the park for the day. This also comes in pink stripes.

Available at Shopbop

2. Velvet Jersey Tie Waist Dress - $108

A basic navy cotton dress that is just so easy but cute at the same time. You can put a belt over the tie if you so desire but pair with some basic flat sandals and a bright print scarf and you’re good to go. Also comes in gray or coral.

Available at Velvet or Shopbop

3. J Crew Castaway Dress - $89.50

This dress looks super light weight (which could result in being see through so you might opt for the gray color) but as someone with a hot pink face the second the temperature gets to 75, I’ll be purchasing this.

Available at JCrew

4. Michael Stars Jersey Stripe Sleeveless Surplus Dress - $124

I am going to take this one into the tailor to get the pockets removed because I think they might make my hips look bigger than they already are but besides that, I liked the navy and white stripes. This dress seems effortless but isn’t plain jane.

Available at Michael Stars

5. Michael Stars Blouson Tie Waist Raglan Dress - $88

Another effortless lightweight dress, this is sure to keep you cool on a Sunday when you’re running around town. The tie waist is a must in my book or else this would be too frumpy. Also comes in olive green and navy.

Available at Michael Stars

6. Lush Blouson Dress - $38

This dress comes in gray, pomegranate, navy or violet. The tiered bottom offers a much needed detail. If you’re worried about length or fit (since this is from the Juniors department) order a size up!

Available at Nordstrom (Brass Plum)

7. Land of Springs Dress - $118

The red stripes (or olive if that’s your preference) are a preppy touch along with the knotted shoulders. The cowl neckline is always flattering and a brown leather belt would pair well with this number.

Available at Anthropologie

-WH

April 21st 2011

Open Knit Sweaters for Spring

We are on the hunt for comfy daywear and the open knit trend is one we think falls in that category. Each of these sweaters can be paired with a pair of black or white skinnies, shorts, or even a thin cotton romper when you need to stay warm.

1. Theory Nimue B Top - $325

This sweater comes in white (Saks) grey (Bloomies/Shopbop) or black (Shopbop).

Available at Shopbop or Bloomingdales or Saks

2. Something Else By Nataile Wood Mesh Sweater - $103

Available at Revolve Clothing

3. Funktional Parallel Sweater - $98

We love this in the olive color with denim!

Available at Shopbop

4. Elizabeth and James Dottie Pullover - $275

We love the thick knit of this sweater and it looks so comfy.

Available at Shopbop, Bloomingdales, Saks or Nordstroms

5. Trouve Crop Knit Sweater -$68

The cropped look is everywhere this spring and we are into the gray knit.

Available at Nordstroms

6. Vince Boatneck Cropped Sweater
$225
Saks

7. Vince Metallic Sweater
$325
Saks

This sweater is great because you can style it year-round. It looks just as great at the holidays with blank pants as it does with white jeans or shorts in the spring.

April 29th 2011

For when you’re wading through some puddles…

Ever since LW posted the Vince cropped pants for her travelling woes, I’ve been eyeing a pair that would be flattering to my legs which is tough because this is where I carry my weight. I refuse to post any of the flare cropped pants, because I don’t understand them; I’m also pretty sure the white cropped pants look is reserved for those who have twiggy long legs. If you’d like us to scour some for you, let us know, but for now I’m being selfish.

Denim –

AG Ex Boyfriend Cropped Jean - $225

These come in a ton of different washes but the light is pretty cute (Shopbop) and the dark would help make legs look a bit thinner. AG has a ton of cropped jeans options that aren’t cuffed as well…check them out!

Shopbop or at AG or Saks (non-ripped, PP’s favorite)

Current/Elliot Boyfriend Cropped Jeans – $229

These are exactly what I think of when I think of “boyfriend” jeans. The wedges pictured will give your legs some height to help lengthen them in this slouchier look but throw them on with flip flops to run out somewhere if you feel like it.

Available at Shopbop

7 For All Mankind Cropped Skinny Jeans - $178

A slimmer look but still with the cute cropped roll at the bottom to make these a casual option.

Available at Shopbop

Non-denim:

A couple of choices for your colored denim trend from J Brand…the orchid pink J Brand Lowrise Twill Capri in Sweetheart Red (only available at Intermix) for $180 or the bright blue Mid-Rise Skinny Twill Pants in Royal for $176 which are barely cropped but still get classified here are great options for the color blocking trend we love so much. I am also obsessed with the twill fabric that JBrand makes because it is UBER soft.

Pink available at Intermix and blue available at Bloomingdales

AG Ex Boyfriend khaki cropped - $99 (On Sale at Blue Heaven Boutique)

These pants are really not me but they look just so comfortable and such a great option for Saturdays doing nothing. Or studying since that’s all we here at PP do on the weekends these days.

Available at Blue Heaven Boutique or 6PM

Paige Premium Denim Kenya Twill Crop Pants - $158 ($126 on sale at Bloomies)

I’m a huge fan of twill pants and the navy on these adds another +1 to their total score. A plan v neck white t shirt with these would be perfect.

Available at Bloomingdales or Shopbop (also in black)

DVF Georginne cropped pants - $285/$265

A dressier option (and something I’ve had my eye on for a while) are these DVF silk cropped pants. I love them and they actually look nice on me which I was shocked by. I am picturing them with nude pumps and a button down for work.

Available at DVF (indigo or cornflower blue) Saks (tan, black, white, indigo) or Bloomingdales (on sale for $185)

Vince Boyfriend Chino Pants – $195

I think my inner prep came out when I saw these because I’m envisioning them with a navy sweater for summer nights at the beach.

Available at Saks or Bloomingdales (in a fatigue green) or Shopbop (stone or dark blue)

-WH

May 09th 2011

Springtime Blazers

I’m a big fan of a solid colored blazer paired with skinny jeans for my Saturday afternoons when I venture out to a store or brunch with a girlfriend and need a light jacket to keep me warm. I like to pair it with a laid back t shirt, a printed scarf and maybe a small necklace and I’m good to go. You can throw any of these blazers on with a tank/strappy dress if you need to cover up for work too or take them as a lightweight jacket for night. They seriously are all-purpose. Here are some fun blazers I’ve come across to complete the look.

Topshop ¾ Sleeve Shrunken Blazer - $110

The color is so bright and fun and the single button will help create curves for those who tend to be more square in the waist-line. Wear it open for a more unstructured look with some long gold necklaces. It also comes in a cornflower blue or a mint green. This dark pink open linen jacket is also a great item from Topshop.

Available at Topshop

Aqua ¾ Sleeve Linen Sleeve - $88

Aqua has stolen Theory’s printed lining to add some pop when you cuff the bottom of your sleeves. The taupe linen looks great next to a dark denim.

Available at Bloomingdales or in a solid black fabric as well

Smythe One Button Blazer - $595

It’s pricey but the navy and gold button combo is a classic preppy look. I absolutely love the pairing of this structured jacket with a khacki short and oxfords. I’ll pair my JCrew schoolboy blazer with this looks since I don’t have $600 but this jacket is just awesome.

Available at Saks or Shopbop or Bloomingdales (in white)

Rory Beca Sofia Lace Blazer - $143

I love the lace of this blazer to dress up the look. You can roll the sleeves up to make it more casual or wear them down to pair with a black dress for work.

Available at Shopbop

Zara Double Breasted Blazer - $99

This comes in hot pink or a kelly green and is too cute open with a pair of skinny jeans and flats. It also comes in a single button and pockets version. Again, a plain white t shirt is all you need.

Available at Zara stores

Elizabeth and James Shawl Collar James Blazer - $264 (was $395)

Paired with a cute mini dress, this navy shawl collar adds some casual flair to a longer blazer. The ruched sleeves are a cute touch.

Available at Neiman Marcus

May 23rd 2011

WH’s Favorite Dresses - May

It’s been a while since we did a favorite dress post and I think there’s a reason for that. LW and I have been struggling for things we love and for the most part, what I’ve found are basics that can be worn to a lot of different places (casually with flats or sandals or dressed up with a pair of pumps!).

Vince Tie Front Dress - $245

I just purchased this on sale and I’m obsessed. It’s a perfect LBD to take you ANYWHERE. You can blouse it up for a shorter length for going out or I can pull it straighter for work. It also was not wrinkled at all after being in a box for over a week.

Available at Barneys or Cusp

Diane Von Furstenberg Splice Mini Dress - $325

This dress is a recommendation from PP reader, JL. She wore this for her bday and loved it. Super comfy and flattering fit with the cute splice detailing at the collar. Thanks, JL!

Available at Barneys in navy or Saks in bright green

Reiss Grace Dress - $340

This comes in a great neutral as well but I love the draping. The ruched center will give you a waist and this will drape so elegantly. There is a reason Duchess Middleton loves this brand…

Available at Reiss (20% off all items at Reiss with the code PSW20)

Patterson J Kincaid Imperial Dress - $158

I love how easy this dress is. I really want to pair a dark brown snakeskin belt with it and just throw on a pair of sandals and maybe a light jean jacket for a day date.

Available at Bloomingdales in blue and also at Shopbop in coral

Trina Turk Mambo Dress - $248

The drapey cowl neck is flattering to all and the dolman short sleeves are great for when you want to cover those arms. Love the watercolor pattern combined with the bright blue.

Available at Bloomingdales or Trina Turk

Jack and Ginger “Betty” Voile Blouson Dress - $128

A very similar cut to the Trina Turk, I like how the purple and green go together. Flattering to a golden glow of summer (or a fake one). I’d love to see this paired with a tan blazer.

Available at Nordstrom

Jay Godfrey Strapless Long Ruffle Dress -$385

The gorgeous cobalt combined with the ruffle make this strapless maxi one that you will fee extra special in.

Available at Intermix

Rebecca Taylor One Shoulder Dress

I love the pin dot fabric and the detailing of the one shoulder. The chiffon flows so nicely (I tried it on in gray). Pair with neutral accessories (a skinny belt and platform pumps?) and you’re ready to go.

Available at Piperlime for $280 in blue or Bloomingdales for $350 in gray

Pretty Polished

Posts tagged "day"

Bottoms Up - A Smattering of Skirts

Cross Body Bags

Pretty Polished Perfumes

20% off Calypso

Bag Discussion Follow Up

Summertime Day Dresses

Open Knit Sweaters for Spring

For when you’re wading through some puddles…

Springtime Blazers

WH’s Favorite Dresses - May

Latest Updates

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