Sunnies for Summer

Summer Sandals

NYC Street Style

Summer is coming to a close, but my friends and I had to get one more daytime concert in before saying goodbye. The MOMA has a small museum next to where I live in Queens (yes, I live in Queens on the water and love it). Every Saturday during the summer they throw a "Warm-Up Party" that goes on all day. Every hour is a different DJ and there is a big dance party where recess used to be. It is a fashion feast for the eyes, no jean shorts and t-shirts here.... Unless they are bedazzled with leather and gold jewelry:)

All of my friends had the same idea, comfortable yet super stylish. The crowd is very mixed, so as long as you have your own sense of style, you will look amazing. I went for a ghetto fabulous look with tons and tons of gold jewelry and a basic American Apparel tube dress. I seem to be into ghetto fab these days. The yellow RL messenger bag was my pop of color.

My bestie Danielle was also all about the accessories. Rebecca Minkoff bag, J Crew necklace and Sperry docksiders. Her pop of color was in her jeans and blue nail polish.

Boots are definitely in for summer and Grace was no stranger. Somehow she managed to make a flowy top and pearly with with grungy jeans shorts and Steve Madden brown boots. I love a good combo when it works....

Meet My New Stylish Intern

It has come time to bring on a young fashionista who is determined to build Sass N Style into the empire it deserves to be. Meet Jaclyn Taylor Fleurant, otherwise known as @jac_taylor (for those of you that want to follow her directly on Instagram). Here are her "style stats": 19 years old, sophomore at Drexel University, majoring in fashion design and merchandising. I think she fits the bill to show you even more fabulous looks then I have time to keep up with. Communicate with her directly at Jaclyn@sassnstyle.com. Get ready for her to blow it up.....

I bought this dress at the Patricia Field store on the Bowery in NYC. I am obsessed with the "mullet" style dress (short in the front, long in back), but I had trouble finding one that I absolutely LOVED. When I found this, I knew it was "the one" (and it was only $70). Just a little double stick tape in the front to make sure it doesn't swing open and it was perfect. I styled Jaclyn up with a ton of bracelets including Alex and Ani and a few vintage mixed with an Urban Outfitter's watch. The ending note was Jaclyn's shades from 5 below (apparently everything is under 5 bucks) and her Sam Edleman boots. LOVE.

Summer Straw Hats

Someone save Kim! Her hat is going to swallow her! Seriously, this is a little ridiculous. How does one maneuver doors in this hat? What you don't know about this picture is that Kim Cattrall has a personal handler just for her hat and it was placed directly on her once she sat down. It will promptly be removed once she decides to move again...... I am just kidding for those that don't get my sarcastic humor.

So what is realistic when it comes to summer straw hats? What is too big? I personally have one simple rule, if you can't see anybody around you, the hat is probably too big. Of course this may be a plus for certain people trying to avoid others.... It should be just wide enough to cover your face so the sun can't get to it. Sorry ladies, you are just going to have to slather sun screen on your shoulders because if the hat is that wide, you probably will need a hat handler as well.


Now here is another problem. Wide brim straw hats should, I repeat, should only be worn to warm weather events surrounding a body of water. You are very within your means at a pool party, BBQ on the lake or cruising around in a sailboat, but the red carpet sponsored by Zales? Really? Really?!? Bethany Frankel, I am one of your bigger fans (I love loud mouths like myself), but this hat is only part of your offense. I cannot go without mentioning that this entire outfit is nuts. Add in the lollipop to boot and I just can't take it. The ruffle, the sash, the hat, the feather, the lollipop, I am going to burst! Take that hat, rip off the feather and throw on a bikini, done. Oh yea, and get off the red carpet and head directly to the beach......

So here we have a good option for most gals.... It is breathable (so your head won't be drenched in sweat), it is a good circumference and it has some style. Look at how awesome this model looks in her wide brim summer straw hat! This piece instantly adds class and style to any water-bound ensemble. Don't you see yourself on the high seas near the French Riviera? Boat and hot captain not included.

I truly believe it is a necessity these days to own some type of wide brim hat to block yourself from harmful UV rays. Yes, I am a doctor as well as a stylist. Truthfully, when you can own something that does double duty, style and protection, why not? I love something that is two for the price of one.

Bloomingdales: Auqa Floppy Sun Hat with Metallic Edge- $58

HOT Summer Work Looks: Own the Right Pieces

Just because the temperature is up doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style! Let's face it, according to me, unless you are traveling through the insect infested backwoods of the country, you should never sacrifice style. Come down on me summer heat, I will fight back and do it in fashion.

The key to fighting this insane heat that is about to descend upon us is to layer on, layer off. Going to the office is much different then being IN the office. Why do they always put the thermometer at a lovely 50 degrees when it is pushing 100 outside??? Apparently the person paying the bill is not setting the temperature.....

Just as this look from J Crew is showing you, the most important thing in summertime is to look like you weren't trying too hard. It should be easy and breezy, just as your summer attitude is! Nothing too structured, nothing too overwhelming, the layers should almost always be able to go from daytime to nighttime. This lovely variable gives your summer wardrobe a lot more flexibility then any other season. Materials are light and breathable, meaning that any sort of lining might be stifling. Only suits should really present the possibility of having 2 layers to contend with.

The sheath dress is a fabulous option to play with during the next couple of months. You can easily layer items on during the warmer months and utilize it later in the year by layering under! I love versatility. A neutral color, such as this tan, allows you to truly play with it as a foundation piece and change it up completely depending on what you put with it. Change the belt, necklace, shoes, layering piece and bam, it is an entirely different outfit. The style works on most body types from straight to curvy, it really just depends on how you style it. Make it works ladies!

If you work at a location that requires you to wear a suit, don't fret. I can style you fabulous no matter what! Again, the most important factor is to keep it looking like you didn't try too hard. I know, I know, "How do I do that with a suit???" Easy. It is all about how you "wear" the suit and style it. Rolling up the sleeves is key. This automatically gives it a more laid back feeling. It becomes a bit more accessible rather then stiff and uninviting. Adding a blouse that is colorful and printed will help to brighten the overall look. Keeping the material loose and the shirt un-tucked may seem inappropriate, but remember ladies, you are wearing it under a suit! You are already so put together that wearing the undergarment in a more casual way will NOT throw off the entire ensemble. No one in the office will be staring you down for your inappropriate attire!

The final touch on any FAB ensemble is the jewelry! It is easy to buy, easy to style and a fairly inexpensive way to pump up any look, any season. For summer I always promote colorful stones. It pushes whatever outfit you have created into the playful, summer outfit you aspire to create! From necklaces to bracelets to earrings, adding a fun summer bauble is the final touch that your amazing outfit needs! Remember ladies, don't overdo it. A fantastic look really only needs one pop piece. Choose one great item and make it shine! Then, your whole outfit will be like a ray of sunshine.............

J Crew Leopard Skirt/Top/Cardigan
J Crew Sheath Dress: $158
Banana Republic Jacket:$150
Banana Republic Pants: $79
Ann Taylor Loft Necklace: $39.50

Summer Shorts CAN Work For You!

You have no idea how many people are horrified by the idea of wearing shorts in the summertime. I am here to tell you that (for most people) there is a style that can be flattering! You WILL feel stylish and sexy when you leave the house.... I wouldn't let you leave if you didn't!

Almost every designer showed some version of a summer short during fashion week. Trust me folks, this is a trend that isn't going anywhere. Let's face it, the heat will not allow it. Function and fashion go hand in hand and when something fits the concept so perfectly, you better open your mind, because it is here to stay.

Now, let's talk styles and options:

The short short: First thing that comes to mind for most ladies, ug. I get it, unless you have perfectly toned thighs, this style is petrifying. That is why it is an option and you don't HAVE to own them. Truthfully, I hate throwing out rules, but if you are over 35, this might be past your prime. I am 31 and I love them, but it appears to be countdown time to the end.....















Pop quiz: Which one of these shorts is too short even for the most in shape person? Um, if you don't know the answer I am scared. The orange shorts from J Crew are a perfect option for anyone that is looking for a fun and flirty bottom half. The silk material allows it to go from casual to dressy just by adding the right jewelry, bag and high heel shoes.

Now although this model clearly has the upper hand based on the fact that her legs are a mile long, don't let that deter you from choosing the same style of shorts! This mid-thigh option is a perfect choice for most women. Because of the slight pleating, there is room for movement and comfort, yet it is not adding on the pounds. Pleating can often be a gal's worst enemy, but this easy draping is masking flaws rather then adding them. In addition, the tie string draws the eye to the the middle and gives the shorts a bit more of a stylized look. Legs of all shapes and sizes can be happy in these shorts by Aqua at Bloomingdales!

Now if you are seriously still not convinced that shorts are your thing, let's try out one more style you might be comfortable with. The Bermuda short is great for a little more coverage, but still rocking the shorts look. They should be straight and be form fitting. A flat front is going to be the best option for a long short, otherwise you are going to be swimming in fabric and it will not look good! If you are extremely wide through the thighs then this is not you pair, but even if you have curves you don't extremely love, you have to make sure these skim the body. Otherwise, your sexy curves will turn to, well, fat. You get the idea!

So there it is folks. Three basic styles that should fit most women. Options are key and finding a pair that suits your body and lifestyle is the most important way to feeling and looking great!

J. Crew Dejeuner Silk Shorts: $88
Aqua Slouchy Paper Bag Pleated Shorts: $58
Lauren by Ralph Lauren Bermuda Shorts: $49.50

Bohemian Chic Fab Photo Shoot

It is so on. Oh yea, that's right, I am back in the photo shoot game. It is too much fun and my creative muscle is finally being flexed to it's max again! My muscles like to be flexed:) My last photo shoot has already been picked up for publishing which only eggs me on to do more and more and more.... It certainly helps that I have found an AMAZING team of people to work with. We seriously get it done. We did 10 looks yesterday and I still managed to return all of the clothing before the end of the day! For those of you that are not in "photo shoot world", this is completely unheard of. We work so well together that we not only produce incredible shots (of course this is our mutual opinion:), but we grind it out without missing a beat.

See for yourself.... Our model Shannon was nothing short of fantastic. Not only did she look good, but she was incredibly easy to work with and very happy. This is not always the case:) We went with a bohemian chic look choosing anything that the wind could pick up. This means lots of flowy materials, long hair extensions and unbelievable rocky jewels by Brittany Rawlings. Her stuff was out of this world and really was the icing on the cake of every look.



Next up, earthy chic mama from the 60's.... Shannon would have been the most stylish hippie around. The long white dress underneath is actually a prom dress if you can believe it. See how amazing styling can be!!!!



Obviously you know these are working pictures since there is a random hand in the shot! This was such a fun look because it was actually a one-piece bathing suit and long skirt put together! Everything was covered in colorful stones which really brought out the earthy quality of the shoot. What do you think?






















I think this may have been a favorite for the group. It is SO not my style and that is why I was so proud of myself for how it turned out! I loved how laid back it easy and how many thing are going on in one look. It really shouldn't make sense, but somehow it all came together and that is what made it so perfect. This is bohemian chic at its best!!!
































Um, swing in your loft? Yes, please. How cool is this??? Meagan Cignoli, the photographer, literally has a swing in her studio/loft. This makes for phenomenal photo shoot opportunities! Not to mention a whole lot of fun for the team when we are not working:) I was hanging out on that swing for most of the day because I love reverting back to a ten year old.






























And to wrap it up, here is my favorite shot of the day!:) Shannon, post hair extensions, love it. Aminah, my fabulous assistant and myself. Of course I am the ass who decides to actually hang off of the swing. What else would I do? Just stand there???? Nope, not me. Hope you enjoyed the shoot!!!!

One Outfit, Two Ways: Casual to Dressy.

I realize you may be doing a double take right now, but yes, those are different outfits. Apparently I need to work on my supermodel poses because I have only mastered one. What is with the bent knee? I will keep practicing....

This past Saturday night I was torn on how dressy I wanted to go. It was a "nice dinner" type of night, so I wanted to look good, but not like I was trying TOO hard. Sometimes changing up your ensemble to make it appropriate for that day's activities is as simple as changing one or two things. You don't necessarily need an entirely new outfit.

Take my chic yet comfortable dinner date look. Option number one included my straight leg dark blue earnest sewn jeans, paired with a black tank top as the foundation pieces. Option number two was just my simple black American Apparel tube dress. Both are comfy and basic, yet give different levels of sass. By keeping the top layer and accessories the same, the foundation items are really the changing force.

I always promote that your brain does not need to overwork in order to create a fabulous outfit. We all have "go-to" looks that work every time, well what if you changed them up by switching out even just one item? You may have a completely different outfit without trying that hard!

There are two ways to easily create new outfits with just a quick switch. The least complicated is to keep your foundation the same and change out your accessories. Choose a necklace instead of your favorite earrings, change your bag (maybe go bigger or smaller), put some funk in your shoes. ... These are easy and simple tips to create ANOTHER favorite look. The other route I would take for changing it up would be to follow your leader (me:), and switch out the foundation items while keeping the same general feeling. It is your top layer and accessories that really give any look its flavor. For example, this outfit was a bit earthy with a twist of funk and sophitication, the foundation items I chose only made it a dressier or more casual version.

So stop pounding your head on the wall and understand that it does not have to be that difficult! Use your head and your ability for logic, change can be simple and still have a killer affect...

"I Have Nothing to Wear!" Mix Up What You Got.

Yesterday evening I was having one of those days..... You know them, the days when you stare into your closet and although there are tons of possible ensemble choices, your brain just simply won't quit saying, "I have nothing to wear!" Yes, even stylists have those moments and yesterday was one of them.

But as I am sure you all know, you and I surely do have something to wear! Although my brain hurt, I knew I could put together something fabulous from what was hanging right in front of me. The basis for any outfit choices should be made directly in relation to how you feel. I felt like I wanted to be sassy and comfortable, a little sexy and a little earthy.

I have always promoted with personal clients and at my Sass N Style workshops that you should try and begin an outfit with something besides an article of clothing. Pick a pair of fabulous shoes, a great piece of jewelry or even a fantastic bag. You don't always need to start with the clothing!!! This allows you to think a bit differently when you are putting together a look and it should kick you out of that rut!

This whole look started with my necklace. I haven't worn it all summer and it is one of my favorite, funky pieces that I bought on the streets of NYC from an amazing jewelry designer. This set the tone for the earthy element. I didn't want to compete with the necklace, so I threw on a basic white tank top. The skirt was a quirky choice, because it clearly has a "cha-cha" element, but it was white and I was going to make it work! I continued to pull in the earthy element through my vintage, brown lizard bag ($12 at the flea market!), silver and red stone ring and my woven, leather Michael by Michael Kors shoes. I made silver and bronze mixed together acceptable because they were all underneath the "earthy" vibe. To top it all off, I layered the look with a structured jean jacket. I made it a bit more trendy and funky sophisticated. Not to mention that it showed off my shape allowing it to be sexy!



Overall, this ensemble was a success! I achieved the look of sassy, comfortable, sexy and earthy all by pairing together things I already owned! Now it is your turn, think outside of the box and mix up items that you never thought would go together. By carrying through a color or style in the top, middle and bottom using accessories, you are sure to make it work!!!

P.S. That awesome looking dog is Yukon. He is obviously stylin'.

Running Errands in Style

Last night I did a Sass n Style party with a lovely (and entertaining) group of women. One of the women (who has attended twice!) told me about a tweet that Clinton Kelly did about how to look good even at the grocery store. Not to be outdone, I wanted to show off my version of "Errand Chic".

I have often spoken to clients about how comfort and style SHOULD go hand in hand. People have this idea that unless you have on super high heels you are not looking excessively fashionable. Sex and the City is a TV show people and NO ONE walks miles in 5 inch Manolo's. Oy, my feet hurt just thinking about it.

The fact that you do not have on your pumps does not mean that the rest of your look should go out the window. It is time for what I refer to as "my pajama look". It feels like pajamas, but it certainly does not look like them! For those days when getting dressed seems like a task, or you just don't have to go anywhere that fabulous, you can still look fabulous. In fact, you should always look fabulous! Always.

Pull out those leggings, they are seriously your savior for days like this. If leggings aren't your thing, jeans are a great second option. One of these two items will work for almost all body types so have your pick. The ideal combination for achieving this stylish "pajama look" is to add a longer, looser top. Remember, you want to be as comfortable as possible so wearing something that is looser through the middle will only promote this. As to not look pregnant, choose a style that has some sort of cinch at the waist, like a belt, or wear a longer necklace to break up the looseness of the shirt. Throwing on a trusty pair of ballet flats will keep the look insanely comfortable and still channel your chic side. A hat and sunglasses are a choice for the day based on how hungover you are or if your hair is way past the point of no return.

So there you have it. There are no excuses and no reason why looking stylishly fab is not a rule for life..... No matter how crappy you feel or where you are going. Done and done.

Image by brokeinthecity.com

Grecian Goddess Meets Biker Fab? Hell Yea!!!

I am all about a good combination. Peanut butter and chocolate, sweet and sour, Thelma and Louise... Grecian goddess and biker fab? Um, yes please. I own it, so I make it work. People, I get bored with my clothes too. Everybody, including a stylist, has those days where they feel like they "have nothing to wear". That is when I have to really step up to the plate and think about new and inventive ways to style what I got. I certainly cannot go out and buy something new everyday I feel bored with my wardrobe. That is not a reality for me and most of the universe out there! Make it work.

None of these pieces are too outrageous separately, but together they make one hell of an interesting and fun combo. White jeans, check. Grey tank top, check. Jean vest, check. Ok, maybe the jean vest is a push for most people, but almost everybody should own white jeans and a grey tank top! The jean vest is a creation that came simply from hating it as a jean jacket. I chopped off the sleeves and instantly created a biker chic jean vest. It certainly can be a bit masculine if it is not paired with a bevy of accessories. It is also definitely not a piece you want to wear if you have broad shoulders or thicker arms! The thick width of the shoulder on the vest will only accentuate these things!


To "feminize" my look and bring in the Grecian goddess feel, I added multiple bracelets, including my coin necklace worn as a bracelet. I also threw on my braided gold headband. I love a wrap around headband because it allows you to NOT do your hair that day:) I topped it all off with my tan leather and gold hardware handbag that is my go to piece for a neutral item that doesn't ever compete with my look, it just adds that special something! It is like gravy on top of my look... Mmmmmmm, gravy:)

Sass N Style: Summer Layers

Sunday Stroll: Leisurely Chic

There is nothing I love more then a Sunday with no particular place to go. Of course there is no question that although there is no destination, I must look cute getting there. And so I create a leisurely look that says, "I am fabulous, but I didn't try TOO hard".














This past Sunday was not unlike most of my Sundays. I know I want to do something, the real question is what. As my brain is mush by the time this day of rest comes along, my "fashion show" styling capabilities are not in full form. This does not mean I stroll outside in my pajamas! Take note, there is never a time or place when roaming around in your "leisure wear" is acceptable. This does not mean you should ever sacrifice comfort for style. Ever.

It was hot and my ensemble was going to reflect that. I chose a red loose and easy top from Zara. This great store in all over NYC and is coming soon to Chicago's magnificent mile. It is a dressy, yet comfortable option. Jean shorts, as with jeans, are a no-brainer bottom half. As I mentioned, my brain is not functioning at full force on Sunday. I threw on my new, amazing Grecian sandals that I picked up at Off 5th the weekend before. Orginally $250, bought for $60. I am awesome. Grecian themed sandals will pump up almost any look and this lovely Sunday was certainly no exception. Dressy sandals are one of the easiest Summer options to make your entire look pop. My black and gold hardware Nine West bag was the most simple finale to my look. Not too much competition for the ensemble, but it is definitely a great stand alone piece... As all of your choices should be! One vintage white jade ring and I was done.

When you break apart this outfit the concept is easy: It doesn't take much to look fabulous on a day when you really just don't want to care that much about your fashion. Top, bottom, shoes, purse and a ring... All of the basics without all of the fuss. Find your fabulous individual pieces and pair them together for a no-frills dressing experience! Sunday is now stupendous!

Giddy Up! Cowgirl Style is In

I know this makes three days in a row that I have talked about me, but I have really liked my outfits lately and I want to share them with my fashion world! I have also been changing at least once a day so with two outfits per day and not enough people seeing them, I figured it was time to broadcast them. Hell, I figure you guys actually care what I have on:)

I am completely in love with my new cowgirl shirt and I want to wear it a million different ways, this look is just the beginning! I went crazy over the weekend at Off 5th, the Saks discount store, and not just because I bought three new things. I actually went a little mad because everything was between 20% and 50% off. My boyfriend had to back away from me because he was scared. I walked in the store and declared that "It was so done" and he should go entertain himself in the men's department.

As yesterday was my new cowgirl shirt's maiden voyage, I wanted to be simple yet funky. I am in Ohio this summer so I don't want to go crazy, yet I really do think these mid-west fashionistas can completely handle it. I wear whatever I want and still fit in. My style is not too NYC over the top. It is more realistic with an edgy yet classic side. At least that is how I envision it.

Shorts chic was the avenue I took for the first of many cowgirl looks. First things first, it was hot and since I was covered on top, I had to let my bottom half breath. That and I felt sexier showing some skin. I get one season a year to show off my legs and damn it, I am going to do it until I can't do it anymore. I went with a nude wedge to elongate my legs because every girl needs all the help she can get! I went with a wedge because they are more comfortable and realistic for a Thursday night. I went with nude because every girl needs a shoe the color of her legs for lots 'O length. As you pan up you will find a gray tank layered underneath. It really just adds to the comfortable chic feeling I was going for. I only buttoned two buttons in the middle to keep it feeling a bit messy and thrown together. Although I may not have been carrying the world with me, I chose my biggest bag to keep it feeling funky and casual. Topping it off with my new vintage coin necklace was a way to throw the entire look off by choosing an accessory that didn't necessarily fit. Cowgirl chic and grecian fabulous are not exactly under the same umbrella, but my choice only solidified the alternative, eclectic feel I was going for. Can I find a few more adjectives to describe this ensemble???:)

Hope you enjoyed my fashion show!

July 4th Lake Fabulous!

July 4th is truly my favorite holiday. The only real purpose of it is to gather with friends and family, drink (a lot), eat (a lot) and watch fireworks. Seriously, does it get better than that? To add even more fun, it is my best friend Tina's birthday.... And this year, it was her 30th. Good times. I am lucky enough to be invited (or just show up) every year to her family's lake house on the finger lakes. It is not only beautiful, but her family is like mine so I can be as ridiculous as I want to be. They love me:)

For some reason, mother nature did not want to cooperate this year and it was a low of 55 damn degrees at night. Probably even colder because we were on the lake. When has it ever been this cold on July 4th I ask you???? I am a fabulous packer and am obsessed with weather.com, but I was traveling from working in Chicago prior to this and could not expect such insane coldness! I was packing ten days in advance of this lake trip and was WAY off with my chosen summer items. Why would I think to pack a parka? I had to think quickly, and this is how it turned out.

The story of this outfit goes: My boyfriend was driving from Ohio so I requested he bring me my dark, straight leg jeans. The shoes were already with me and complimented the jeans nicely and didn't compete with the rest of the ensemble. The striped button down is from Tina's mothers closet with a birth date of 1975. Yes I said 1975, I do love vintage:) Shockingly, it did not button all the way up (I have a small bust) so I utilized by nude tank bra as a layering piece. The safari inspired blazer was a lucky pick-up. My last client in Chicago had decided she was not in love with this earlier purchase I had picked up for her and that I could have it. Really! So I should just buy you things that I love, convince you to keep them and then you will give them to me next time I see you? The gig is up! Just kidding, I felt badly but took it anyway... It was cold! I layered on a vintage coin necklace that I picked up in another finger lake town for $25 and my longer multi-charm necklace I had brought with me. Add aviator shades and I was lake chic! Happy fashionable July 4th!

Hi Brow Beach Fashion: Nantucket Style

Oh to be WASPY. You may not come from this pedigree of a background, but you certainly can look like it by choosing the right pastel pieces. It is so beachy and fresh, yet ostentatious in a twisted way. You just look like you got the Benjamin's. Hell, rock it if you can... Talbots apparently stays in business for a reason.

Orginally being from Connecticut it is completely amazing that I have never been to Nantucket or Martha's Vineyard. I make up for it by going to Newport, R.I. and Cape Cod. I must tell you though, the overwhelming differences are just that, overwhelming. People imagine a land of hoity toity individuals that travel around in their Mercedes going from lawn party to lawn party.. Ok, that is partly true for certain areas, but not the norm!

If Nantucket or Martha's Vinyard are your final destination, then hitting up the local Talbots, or at least looking like you did, is a fashion must. It is truly a great experience when you can actually be someone else for a weekend just by changing up your style. You are still you, just with a pastel ensemble on. Acheiving this look is really not all that hard, it is just about the simple basics of what makes up a fancy and beachy Nantucket look.

Please refer to this very happy (and rich looking) couple pictured above. The key is to be simple yet casually elegant. Simple jewelry (bigger stones, yet not to ostentatious if you got it) is a must.
Nothing overly funky or attention grabbing are key adjectives to live by. Cardigans and shawls for layering are the only go-to pieces you should have with you. In fact, I think that is all they sell there:) Top it all of with an oversized pair of fabulous sunglasses and you are ready to sip a very fancy drink at a very fancy lawn party.

As for men, they key is light and airy pants that for some unknown reason are slightly short. I swear. You want to show off your loafers with no socks. Tucking in your pastel button down with a ribbon style belt or rope belt is cinching your Nantucket chic. Aviator sunglasses and a very expensive watch with make you look like one of the good 'ol boys.

Now you are ready to roll with the other power couples in Nantucket. No one will ever know the true amount in your bank account as long as you look the part....

Photo courtesy of Nantucketbrand.com

The Best Flip Flop Ever

The Reef flip flop has been one of my long standing favorites. There are a few go-to pieces in my life that have lasted me through the years and have quite simply been the best purchases ever. These amazing little gems are definitely one of them.

A surfer brand at heart, these shoes have been hitting the beach for years. Luckily for the rest of the overly fashionable world, the brand is starting to venture into fun and sassy styles. I have a pension for anything and everything gold and when I came across these suckers in Florida, I was smitten. They look SOOOOOOO much more expensive than they are. They actually even look like wood once they are on your footsies! The greatest part is that are actually rubber.... Oooh, comfy.

The reason Reefs are a definite piece to own is much more like a list than a point or two. Let me explain with a little story.... Back in '01 when I was studying in Auckland, NZ I was hiking overnight (yes me) and I was in desperate need of a pair of flip flops. I got to the bottom of the mountain dirty and gross, the clouds parted and there it was, a tiny surf shack. There were barely any shoes left except for one shiny pair of blue reef flip flops in my size. They were clearly destined to be mine. Eight years later I still wear my fun purchase proudly. They have seen everything (I will not go into detail) and they keep on ticking. I cannot tell you how many times people have stepped on the back of them and they have yet to rip. How many of your flip flops have ripped apart? Exactly.

The second fabulous thing about them is that they DO NOT need to be broken into. They do not require bandaids or any type of first aid in order to allow you to wear them. They are comfy from the moment you put them on your feet. For less than $30 bucks and years of wearability, is there a better deal in town? I think not.

Reef Wispy Gold Juniors Sandals
$24.00

Rachel Bilson Does Shorts-Chic Right

Rachel Bilson might be one of my favorites little fashionistas in Hollywood. She just always seems to get it right and put your own spin on it at the same time. She is young, trendy, hip, stylish , sexy and fun, all without looking like she is trying too hard. And she is now writing a column for InStyle as well so clearly others agree!

This outfit is a perfect example of how she effortlessly pulls things together. It is really just basics that she put a twist on. Everyone within her age range should own these foundation pieces, jean shorts, a white tank top and a longer sweater. The combination of throwing them together with easy longer chains and an off-set color of brown shoes is the difficult part. Or is it? Her outfit seems so simple and yet there is the touch of interesting, calming colors and earthy materials that make it her own. Her choice of an over-sized purse make it completely accessible and a realistic ensemble for everyday fashion.

Rachel Bilson always seems to get it right and this is just another glowing example. So pull out your basics and see what simple and chic combinations you can come up with. You may not have paparazzi following you around to document your every look, but isn't that what Twitter is for anyway?

Photo courtesy of urbanupdater.com

A Rockin' T-Shirt

Summertime is seriously about ease. It is hot and humid and not everyday is meant to be a fashion show. This DOES NOT mean that you can't look cute everyday! I own about a million t-shirts to just "throw on" when I am not feeling all that fancy because I am busy sweating (so hot, literally).

Roxy is one of my favorite brands that is still not so mainstream.... This is if you don't live near a beach. It is the greatest surfer brand that I discovered years ago when I was backpacking through the sandy parts of the Australian coast. Love it and the brand. It is easy, chic, fun and most of all, surfer sexy. What the hell is surfer sexy you ask? A bit of sass, a bit of color and the perfect fit. Putting on one of their garments instantly makes you feel like you are actually capable of riding a wave. Even if you still can't, at least you will look good.

Picking up fun t-shirts along your travels, be it through your own town or the world, is a no brainer. There will never be a reason not to own fun and fitted gems. But, there is a big no-no to this rule: Do not get all of the free and or bad local "this is where I went on vacation" t-shirts. They will linger in your drawer as possible pajama shirts and even then they most likely will not get worn. They end up overflowing out of your dresser and finally you succumb to giving them away with tears in your eyes because of the overwhelming memories. Oy. Just buy cute fitted t-shirts and you will avoid this entire drama!!!!

Roxy Feathery Goodness Tee
$24.50