Get Graphic

I grew up on 70's Rock & Roll, from Led Zeppelin to The Rolling Stones, and I've always idolized the style of their lead singers. Robert Plant's leather pants, grungy t-shirts and messy hair; nothing is cooler to me. I think that's why I've always been partial to graphic tees. I used to scour thrift stores for them in college, but I'm loving these cleaned-up versions that work in a casual office under a blazer or on the weekend with a frilly skirt and leather jacket. They really add the perfect dose of personality to any outfit. 

Groupies not included! 

 

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Daily Deal feat. Monrow

I think everyone needs some elevated lounge pieces in their wardrobe. As much as we want to look polished 24/7, comfort usually wins out. So what better to throw on than a a pair of chic, expensive sweatpants? LA based Monrow has the relaxed, LA look down pat. Soft and yummy with a vintage wash, a pair of their sweatpants can easily run over $100.

When I saw these pieces on TJ Maxx (at almost 70% off!), I knew I had to share them with you. 

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Hats Off

Hats are having a serious moment. It all started last year with baseball hats, courtesy of the continuing athletic trend. This year, 70's inspired hats, from fedora to trilby to floppy, are popping up everywhere for fall/winter 2014. Look for felted wool, leather hat bands, and a little color- shades of green and burgundy are going to be big. 

Check out my high and low picks below. 

Hats left to right: Lisa Battaglia, Rag & BoneGladys Tamez

Hats left to right: H&M, SDHCZara

Keep it Simple

Jeans and a blouse is about as basic as it gets, but only if you stop there. By adding special pieces; a vintage inspired lightweight jacket, a heavily embroidered bag, and some jewelry, you've got yourself an outfit. This Current/Elliott shirt was a major score from Piperlime last year ($30 marked down from $225!). Like a denim shirt, it is a wardrobe workhorse. Over a girly dress it adds just the right amount of toughness. With my outfit below, the pattern and hardware add interest and texture. 

I have to say, as sad as I am to see summer go, I am beyond excited to switch out my clothes and my look. Stay tuned for more outfit posts this week! 

photo3

jewelry: vanessa mooneyphoto 1

wearing: joe's jeans (similar here and here), madewell top, sam edelman booties, current/elliott shirt (other great camo pieces here and here), banjara clutchphoto2lipstick: Nars "heatwave

 

Daily Deal

A basic, beautifully made black tote is something the adult in me is always on the hunt for. There's nothing worse than showing up for a last minute interview or meeting with a shabby beach tote (been there!). This guy is a major dream, but way out of my league. I was perusing items for another post when I came across this lovely from New York designer Milly. The grommets and external zip pocket give it just enough detail to keep it young while still looking completely timeless. 

Milly "Astor" tote- $89 (was $298)

End of Season Steals

There's nothing I love more than unpacking stored clothes from last season and exclaiming "OMG I forgot I bought that!!" And that is just why I love "end of season steals." You may only get to wear them once or twice, but come next year, you're so happy (and surprised) to see them again. 

This silk maxi dress from Chaser screams end of summer; an easy silhouette, a vintage-inspired ethnic print, and soft colors. I think you could even get away with it into October with a bootie, cardi, and wool hat. 

Chaser silk tapestry maxi dress- $39 (was $198)

For the next few weeks, it's a perfect match with simple, flat leather sandals and a chic pair of sunnies. 

links: leather flatssunnies

A transitional bootie, chunky cardigan, and wool hat take this dress well into fall. 

links: booties, cardigan, hat 

Beach Bound

Are you guys going away for Labor Day weekend? I'm not. But you can bet I'll head to one of our local beaches pretending I'm somewhere fabulous. Some people are perfectly content to wear cutoffs and a t-shirt over their bikinis, but I much prefer a glamorous kaftan or tunic (even if I look a little ridiculous on the subway). 

Below are cover-up picks from some top-notch swim designers from around the world. And from Amazon, you know you still have plenty of time to order and get them in time for the holiday. 

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Daily Deal

We can argue about whether printed bottoms are in or out today, but I think a classic pattern like cheetah in a skinny silhouette is always in. I love these dressed down with a graphic tee and leather jacket or dressed up with a silk blouse and heels. 

And for $22 you can afford to wear them as little or as much as you want. 

Thank you, Amazon

Sanctuary cheetah print jeans- $22.31 (was $109)

The Blazer Alternative

Let's face it, blazers can be really boring. More often than not, the only variation is color (black or grey?) or the number of buttons (single button or two?). Blazer alternatives, ranging from moto to bomber styles, let you add some personality to your otherwise lackluster work wardrobe. They also do double duty, pairing easily with denim or layered over a cute dress for the weekend. Look for special fabrics like lace, boucle, or colorful tweeds. Leather details and color or fabric blocking keep the look edgy. 

My picks are all that and more- and a few of them are up to 80% off. Again, all thanks to Amazon

Easy Rider

The motorcycle trend, whether it's in graphics, jackets, or pant details, is a trend that just won't die. At least 5 fall seasons have gone by and the moto pant continues to be a top style in bottoms. You can go all out with seaming and quilting details or keep it simple with a leather-like coating and exposed zippers. Either way, this trend allows you to inject a little badass into your every day wardrobe. 

Again, Amazon comes through with some major steals. 

links clockwise from top left: DL 1961, AG, Habitual, Big Star, Habitual jeanHabitual coated

Daily Deal

Over the last several years, J. Crew has consistently put out some really interesting, high quality jewelry. Heavy on the rhinestones and crystals, it can sometimes read a little too pretty for my taste. What really makes me swoon is when they incorporate a little edge- in the form of studs, spikes, or in this case, tassels. 

This is not the cheapest item I'll ever write about, but I think the right person could get a lot of mileage out of it.  It would add a bohemian touch to a chunky sweater and destructed jeans combo or be the perfect conversation starter layered over your basic white blouse at the office. Not convinced? Check out their other additional 50% off jewelry deals here

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Daily Deal

What can I say? I have a thing for men's watches. There is nothing cooler to me than a chunky watch with a colorful mani, some delicate rings, and layered bracelets. 

I love this one from action sports company, Neff, via 6pm. The stainless steel construction and black finish give it an slick look but you know it's designed to take a heavy beating. 

Neff "Daily" metal watch- $40.99 (was $100)

Daily Deal

Today I'm sharing my all-time favorite cut offs from this summer- the destroyed boyfriend short from American Eagle. Do NOT think you're too old to shop at juniors stores! Juniors brands often knock-off high end denim designers like J Brand, AG, and Rag & Bone- and do a great job at it.

The relaxed, boyfriend fit and longer length here make these versatile for many body types. I actually bought 2 sizes- one in my normal size and one size bigger for a slouchier look. I love that these can be thrown over your bikini on the beach or paired with a chambray shirt and heeled sandals for a casual date night. 

**AE is offering free shipping and 50% off clearance**

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Dark Romance

In honor of the rainy day here in Brooklyn, I'm doing a round-up of dark, romantic jewelry from Bluefly today. These pieces have a moody, voodoo quality that will add that perfect edge to your fall and winter wardrobe. 

And if you're really good, imagine what amazing holiday gifts these would be? 

links clockwise from top left: ring, bracelet, bangles, necklace, earrings, ear cuffsring

Daily Deal

SUNGLASSES. Usually a big investment, right? You wear them every day, they have to look good with everything, so you go with something basic. Enter, 6pm.com. Outlet sister brand to Zappos, 6pm sells a lot of your favorite apparel and accessory brands (Elizabeth & James, House of Harlow, Maagji, Free People) with a hefty discount. 

What I love about these sunglasses from RAEN Optics is that they're high-quality (acetate frames and Carl Zeiss lenses), a classic shape, but still manage to have an edge with the addition of clear frames. And at almost 75% off you can afford to get the classic tortoise pair, too! 

RAEN Optics Arkin crystal sunglasses- $32.99 (originally $125)

Sale Alert

From now until tomorrow night, H&M is offering an additional 30% off of their sale items. While the Swedish brand is known more for fast fashion than top quality, online and in select stores they sell their Trend line; high quality apparel and accessories inspired directly by the runways. And on sale with an extra 30% off, the prices are just as cheap as their other lines.

See my now & later picks below.

**also, don't forget to check out their premium quality products

Let's Talk Basics

We already talked about Amazon as a great resource for deeply discounted shoes. But (surprise!) they also offer great deals on some of your favorite apparel brands. So today I'm doing a round-up of some great basics you'll soon be on hunt for when it comes to your casual fall wardrobe; a great jean, a plaid or denim button-down, and a fashion sweatshirt. Soon enough these will become your new weekend workhorses!

**Amazon tip- if you add items to your cart and periodically check it, you'll get alerts when things fluctuate in price.