Accessories Anonymous: Fashion for my Nook

I recently entered the ranks of the e-reader elite. Yup, I bought a Nook. I did not go for the new Nook Color, but instead opted for the Nook 1st Edition for several reasons. First, I compared the Nook to the Kindle and various other e-readers. I also tested out reading a book on both the Kindle and the Nook once I knew I'd narrowed it down to one of those two devices. In the end, there were a few distinct features that helped me make my decision:

I knew I wanted an e-reader mostly for books and the occasional newspaper, but not magazines.
I knew I did NOT want anything with a backlit/LED-type screen, but rather the e-Ink black and white screen that is not lit in any way.
I knew I wanted 3G so that I could download new books anywhere anytime.

I compared pricing on the different devices and also on the books available for each device. The Nook 1st Edition was more expensive than the Kindle, but I preferred the touch screen on the Nook 1st Edition to the keypad of the Kindle. Truly, I preferred the size and touch screen of the Nook Touch, but unfortunately that device was only available with Wi-Fi, not 3G. In reading all sorts of reviews of all the different devices, the bottom line was this: the Nook 1st Edition has 3G and a more user-friendly navigation (in my opinion) than the Kindle and since the other Nook options don't include 3G, it made for a simple decision.

But far and away the most exciting part of outfitting my Nook was selecting the cover for it. Honestly, between Kate Spade and Jonathan Adler, etc., there are quite a few stylish options for a Nook case. In the end, I went with JavoEdge in a fabulous bright floral print:

Poppy Flip Case in Sunny Yellow, JavoEdge, $22.95

Honestly, I wouldn't mind a cute skirt or sundress in this print, either. Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got to make sure my Nook is fully charged before the worst of Hurricane Irene hits my town. 

Enjoy the rest of your Sunday and if you're on the east coast, stay safe! 

Project Runway Season 9 Episode 5

I feel bad for this model:

Anthony Ryan's Look

And I want to BE this model: 

Viktor's Look

Viktor has been NAILING it throughout this season, at least for me. He had a bit of a rough time when he had to work with Bert, but other than that, he's been making some pretty stellar clothes. Unlike Josh M. whose attitude seems bigger than his talent, Viktor's quiet demeanor alongside stellar sewing and design is a refreshing change for the show. And once again he's my pick for the "Would I Wear It?" prize. This is the third look of his that has earned that honor. (Episodes 1, 4 and 5) 

There were some really amazing quotes this week, but one that I found particularly offensive. Anthony Ryan's remark about "not being this pissed since I had cancer" was beyond ridiculous. I'm going to chalk it up to sleep deprivation and team-leader stress making him crack under the pressure. As someone who has not had cancer, I can only imagine how offensive that statement must feel to anyone actually living with a fatal condition like that. I can't think of an excuse that would make it okay for him to trivialize it that way. I suppose I may be over-reacting, but I just can't condone an attitude in which fashion is compared to an actual life-or-death situation. That's all. 

As for the judges decisions, the only thing I don't agree with is the maxi-dress win. But since Viktor's look also secured a win, I can live with it. What do you think of this look?

Anya/Becky/Josh M's Look

I suppose part of me has an issue with the maxi-dress winning because I hate maxi dresses. I hate the way they look. I hate the idea of a maxi with sneakers. I hate pretty much everything about them. But since it's Heidi's opinion that matters, there's not much I can do. 

What do YOU think of the designs this episode? Leave a comment and tell me your thoughts. 

Houndstooth of the Baskervilles

No, this post has nothing to do with Sherlock Holmes. I stink at word play.

Anyway, I've noticed over the last few seasons that oversized houndstooth is everywhere. And I think I love it! Check out these fabulously bold pieces:

Clutch in Large Houndstooth, Tamra's Bag (Etsy), $25

Halogen Ruched Side Drape Neck Top, Nordstrom, $48

Salvatore Ferragamo Houndstooth Printed Genuine Python Pump, Nordstrom, $950

Houndstooth Double Breasted Coat, eCrater, $169.90

Sequin Houndstooth Skirt, ASOS, $100.62

While I like the interesting color combinations of some oversize houndstooth prints out there, I have to say that given the boldness of the print itself, it's often best to stick with the classic black and white or grey and white version. Too much print plus a bold color can be very overwhelming. Try on different size versions of this print to see which one works best on your body's proportion. Or if you're unsure about wearing a top or dress in the print, try just an accessory like a scarf or a shoe or even a hat. The exaggerated print is what makes it trendy, though, so be sure to select a version of the houndstooth that is clearly oversize and not the classic version. 

Accessories Anonymous: To Infinity and Beyond!

It's kind of sad, but I've already noticed a distinct drop in temperature around here. Fall will be here before we know it, and after that, many snowy days. I spent the day at the beach yesterday, trying to catch a few more rays before it's too cold for a bathing suit. But when it does turn cold enough for sweaters and wool tights and scarves, there is a great accessory I will be using: the infinity scarf. This idea has been around for a while and was quite popular last year during the colder months. Fortunately, it is a trend that has been able to survive another season. Infinity scarves are simply scarves that are connected at both ends, forming a circle. They are great for layering with a warm coat or to add a touch of style to an outfit and keep the chill off. Here are some great ones you may want to snatch up before the temperature really drop down:

Lulu Floral Print Infinity Scarf, Nordstrom, $18

The light floral print will keep that touch of summer that we all want to cling to as fall approaches. Pair it as pictured with a striped top to be even more trendy or keep it simple with a solid-print dress instead. 

Spun by Subtle Luxury Abstract Arizona Infinity Scarf, Piperlime, $48

Because of the oversize, bold print of this scarf, keep the top of your outfit simple and sleek- a classic blazer or scoop-neck top will look great with a pencil skirt and this scarf. 

Tie- Dyed Infinity Scarf, Old Navy, $10.99

The infinity scarf doesn't need to be bundled close around your neck all the time- drape it long and it acts as a soft, necklace-esque accessory. You can even layer some actual necklaces on top of it for added style. 

Striped Infinity Scarf, Erica's One Man Band (Etsy), $28

I love the bold punch of color and pattern this scarf offers. And to purchase something handmade is even more special, if you ask me. Much like the way it's styled on the model, this piece will look best against a solid backdrop of a black tee or sweater. 

Infinity scarves aren't solely for cold times of year- there are plenty of feather-weight options in lovely summery prints that help take the chill off when your boss cranks to AC at the office. Don't just wrap yourself in a boring poncho or cardigan- use a cool scarf to stay warm AND look fabulous. 

Exciting News...

... Stella and Dot has HANDBAGS!!! I was really excited when I first heard the news of this new S&D venture and I have to say that they've done a great job. Since it's so new, I wasn't expecting a huge collection and I was right about that. This set includes about 5 different designs, most of which are available in at least two colors/textiles. My personal favorite is the La Coco Clutch:

La Coco Clutch, $148

Isn't it fabulous? I'm in love, especially when it's dressed up with a little more pizzazz: 

Plume Brooch, $34

The clutch is even designed for a brooch embellishment. There are grommets behind the center pleat that make adding or changing a brooch incredibly simple AND there's no damage to the purse from poking holes with the brooch pin! Awesome! 

Take a few moments to check out the handbag collection from S&D and then leave me a comment telling me what you think of it. I'd love to hear your thoughts! 

Project Runway Season 9 Episode 4

This particular episode was a lot of fun to watch. I love Nina's brutal honesty throughout the entire process. And somehow with her beautiful lilting accent, even the harshest comments sound lovely. I suppose there is no agreeing or disagreeing with the winner of this episode, since it really comes down to what Nina would like to wear. But they said it best when the judges pointed out how Kimberly's look was great because of her simple styling. It showed off the fact that the outfit could speak for itself:

Kimberly's Look

Another personal favorite of mine (which also happened to be a favorite of Nina's) was Victor's design. Unlike Bert's LBD, this one was interesting and very striking. Bert's dress, while pretty, was a snooze-fest if I ever saw one. But let's not focus on that. Instead, let's focus on the beautiful details and tailoring of Victor's little black look. As you know, he did make separates, but in the same fabric so it looked like a dress: 

Viktor's Look

The only other thing I feel compelled to mention is the "accidental" purchase of the same fabric by Anthony Ryan and Becky. While neither scored high or low enough to be in the top or bottom, I was still disappointed that the judges didn't at least acknowledge the strange phenomenon. 

I personally prefer Becky's look: 

over Anthony Ryan's look: 

Becky's use of the fabric was more interesting and chic. Anthony Ryan's look was dated and other than the interesting shape of the skirt, pretty dull. Becky even turned the fabric on the bias so that the gradual ombre effect was in line with the diagonal charcoal stripe, whereas the most interesting thing Anthony Ryan did with it was to reverse the pattern on the collar. Overall, I just wasn't that impressed with him, but Becky's was a favorite. 

And now, the designers in the bottom- Cecilia, Julie and Danielle:

Cecilia's Look

Julie's Look

Danielle's Look

Cecilia and Danielle suffered from looks that were boring at best. Danielle's saving grace was probably that the garments were at least well-made, whereas Cecilia's dress was a wreck in terms of construction and fit. But then again, so was Bryce's dress: 

Bryce's Look

In my humble opinion, Bryce should have been in the bottom as well. The judges were probably just sick of giving him the same feedback and decided to just let him through. As for Julie, I feel bad for her because her dress was definitely in line with her aesthetic and it was fairly well made. Unfortunately, Nina hated it (and so did Michael), so she was auf'd. If it had been me, Bryce would have gone home for a boring dress and a botched hem. I have been surprised by the judges this season in terms of what they consider an auf-able offense. Sometimes you get through if you're crazy (Bryce) while other times you get through with poor construction (Bryce) and still other times you get through if you've made the voluminous half of a stilt-walking-dancer outfit (Bryce). Hmm.... I'm noticing a pattern here... 

But enough about that- I'm sure you're wondering who wins for the "Would I Wear It?" prize. This week, I would LOVE to wear Viktor's dress, which wins over Becky's by just a hair. Which one would YOU wear? Leave a comment and tell me! 

Shoesday Tuesday- Wedge Sandals

A few months ago, I was on a quest to find the perfect shoes for this summer at work. I wanted to wear feminine sandals with a slight wedge. Most of what I found was either a little too gladiator-esque or too flat or just too-something to make me really want to buy them. Of course, now that fall is just around the corner, I've not only found the exact style I was so desperately seeking, but they are a fabulous price:

Hanalei Holiday Wedge, Modcloth, $32.99

What did I do to deserve such bad shoe karma? Why couldn't I have found these perfect shoes in May? Now that it's the end of August, there aren't going to be many more opportunities for sandals. Soon it will be boots and tights and close-toed everything. I suppose I'll find the perfect leather knee-high boots in April.