From new seasons to new jobs, we are in constant motion – evolving, changing, learning and experiencing as we go. Spring is the transitional season between winter and summer, bringing promises of longer days, new growth, warmer weather and that sun-kissed glow.

From accessories to sunnies to watches and now swim, a few of my favorite pieces from each category

As we move forward (fashion, that is) into an array of spring florals, pastels, stripes and shades of sherbet, don’t forget to stop and enjoy the rainfall, smell the flowers an reflect on all the good in your life. Here’s a few ways to inject a fresh perspective and strengthen your sense of self and happiness this Spring:

• Take the time to evaluate your wardrobe and donate the excess and ill-fitting
• Incorporate a punch of color or bright pattern into your everyday ensemble
• Wear open-toed shoes
• Read an inspiring book
• Try a new workout to blast that a** into shape in time for bikini season
• Call your Granada
• Don’t wear black – or at least try it for just a day
• Trade your winter-weight jacket for a lightweight metallic parka

How will you seamlessly transition into Spring?

Stay tuned and stay stylish.

I’ve come to love what I once thought of as the ultimate faux paus for petites – ankle straps. Turns out they are just the ticket for Spring, and this trend had legs… Or at least the ability to elongate legs. Whenever I find something I love, I become a collector. Case in point: it went from Air Jordan’s in middle school (I own 13 pairs), to The North Face jackets and backpacks in high school (too many to count and since have all gone to charity), then on to designer denim in college and todays impressive (and unfortunately much more expensive) designer shoe and handbag collection. Problem? Maybe. But the best problem ever, if you ask me

From top: Valentino Rockstuds, Manolo’s, Alexander Wang and Christian Louboutin’s

Back to ankle straps – this reoccurring fad in footwear is not only flattering, but functional. The attention to detail provides extra support and ease for the wearer. But, as a means to address the “what once was a potential fashion faux paus” there’s a few rules to follow when finding the perfect pair (or 4):

• The skinnier the strap = the skinnier your legs look. Trust me.
• The lighter the color of the strap = the longer your legs look. Nudes, metallics and flesh-tone hues will never fail.
• Bold, thick straps = edgy, tough and much more challenging to pull off. Proceed with caution.

Don’t have the desire to get on board with ankle straps? I have a fashion forecast for summer, and I predict these babies will make a BIG comeback: anklets!! Slip into your ankle strap-less pumps and throw on an anklet for a similar effect. Will you dare to wear?

Stay tuned and stay stylish.

I’ve never been into makeup – the cosmetics department has intimated me for as long as I can remember, besides I like to think of myself as a natural beauty – but there’s something to be said for possessing an arsenal of go-to products to perk you up after a night on the town, or a Monday.

Rebecca Minkoff monogrammed pouch with my go-to products for a 5 minute face (see details at left)

If, like me, you enjoy scoring a cheap thrill from Bartells but get heat from your coworkers – I advise you to find a balance. Don’t be afraid to venture into the land of black spandex, bright lights and false eyelashes if it’s in the budget. Just be clear about what you’re looking for and how much time and money you’re willing to spend. After experimenting, I’ve found some favorites that may fill a void in your current routine.

Heres how I achieve the 5 minute face:

• YSL touché éclat
• Anastasia brow wiz and growth serum
• Benefit they’re real mascara and eye bright
• Elf blush
• Benefit hoola bronzer
• MAC lipstick

The above will give you a natural look – I love this because it’s achievable, approachable and appealing. It’s not to say you can’t go all out with a smoky eye or bold red lip on a special occasion, but think girl-next-door with flawless skin and an infectious glow for the everyday.

Stay tuned and stay stylish.

I never thought of myself as a foodie until recently. Maybe it’s the natural progression of time, but just a few years ago you’d be hard-pressed to find more than a bag of baby carrots, egg whites and a bottle of vodka in my fridge. Today’s another story – I’m stocked up on a myriad of fresh fruits and veggies, lean proteins and the fixings for leather pant friendly (this is a fashion segment) gourmet meals. It’s been a transition for the best as I settle into my late 20′s and focus on health and wellness instead of partying (don’t get me wrong, I still party, just not as hard or as often).

From top: fresh oysters, dinner detailed at left, and breakfast with the addition of pumpkin pancakes

When I’m not obsessing over NYFW trends, the latest fitness craze or finding the perfect casual weekend attire, I’m obsessing over food. I used to live for take-out and depended on Whole Foods, the local Greek restaurant and teriyaki joint to supply me with a seemingly healthy dinner. Now I chef up a version of these, and more – without breaking the bank.

Some of my favorite simple bikini-ready friendly meals are outlined below:

• Breakfast: prosciutto and spinach omelet with sweet potato hash
• Snack: green smoothie (my latest favorite is the perfect blend of ginger, kale, banana, mango, flax & chia seeds)
• Lunch: Mediterranean tuna (made with EVOO, dill, capers, scallions, lemon juice and cracked pepper on a bed of arugula)
• Dinner: steamed mussels and clams with seared sea scallops in a homemade tomato sauce with fresh basil and parmesan
• Dessert: flourless black bean brownies sweetened with stevia and topped with smoked sea-salt

I hope this inspired you to find your inner foodie.  Now hit the grocery store, put on that frilly apron and cook up something that would make you momma proud!

Stay tuned and stay stylish.

For those days when you’re running late or feeling lazy during morning dressing, reach for a basic and build from there. From a seemingly casual updated sweatshirt to a classic white tee, this is the perfect canvas for standout jewelry, killer accessories or an embellished topper.

F21 Sweatshirt, J Crew necklace, J Brand jeans, Gucci shoes and Michael Kors watch

After a valentine’s day filled with too many sweets and too much bubbly, this morning was the perfect day to pair a sandblasted sweatshirt with a statement necklace, slouchy jeans and gold Gucci platforms. I know the notion of a sweatshirt and high heels sounds like an oxymoron, or may bring visions of an early morning streetwalker - but you’ve got it all wrong.  We’re not talking hoddies and lucite - think fitted crewnecks and booties. 

Here’s a few things to look for when updating your basics:

• Slim or slouchy silhouettes
• Unique treatments or detailed stitching
• Most importantly – a flattering fit

Once you nail the updated basics, pile on the scarves, jewels and unexpected extras. Just remember to remove one before you leave the house a la Coco Chanel.

Stay tuned and stay stylish.

I’ve come to enjoy the simpler things in life: reading a hot-off-the-press magazine, “designer” tea, white ceramic salad plates and perfectly tailored basics. Not terribly inspired, right? After recharging my batteries I came up with a few ways to inspire the everyday essentials – from my wardrobe (and yours) to the bookcase and beyond:

• Silver – the metallic of the season
• Pastel hues – especially mint green and blush
• Black and white
• Grace: A Memoir by Grace Coddington
• Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And other concerns) by Mindy Kaling
• Anything from teavana - I love the blueberry kona pop and monkey picked oolong 
• Lucite details – shoes, jewels
• Subtle floral prints
• Jewelry inspired and mini watches
• Vintage mirrors 

Add polish to your everyday ensembles with a third piece. It sounds simple enough, but you’d be surprised by the number of repeat offenders (like that pesky coworker who just doesn’t take your advice – you know who you are;)). Whatever the dress code, a third piece will undoubtedly elevate both your appearance and confidence.

From left: Rag & Bone denim shirt, Forever sweater and J Crew belt; Marc Jacobs vest and Joie lace top; Nordstrom top and Missoni scarf; C&C flannel and J Crew sequin sweatshirt

Here’s a list of no-fail third pieces to get you started:

• Cardigan
• Pullover sweater – crew, v-neck, quarter zip, etc.
• Blazer
• Vest
• Scarf
• Jewelry

Add one of the above your core basics (button-up shirt and slacks for the boys, blouse and trousers for the ladies at work and jeans and tee for the weekend).

*Please note: in a professional environment, the third piece isn’t an option, it’s a requirement. Your welcome, employers.

Stay tuned and stay stylish.

Yes – I’m going there, and your welcome. You know them when you see them, and they really are magic. Characteristically fitted with leather construction or trim, these head-turners accentuate the tush and give the wearer a guaranteed confidence boost. Not to mention they leave men weak in the knees and women green with envy. Check and check. So, if you don’t already have a pair stashed away for “special” occasions – ladies night on the town, first date, clubbing (do people still do that?) – I advise you to add them to you list of must-have’s and make finding them your weekend mission.

From left: H&M pants; Hudson denim and leather, Paige suede and knit and H&M faux leather and knit; grey lace trimmed tee, Dolce & Gabbana eel skin pumps and Michael Kors watch

Here’s what you need to know when hunting for your perfect pair of magic pants:

• Fit – should be snug and skim the body in all the right places. A narrow cut that hits at the ankle is universally flattering. Don’t forget to check your rear end in the 3-way mirror…
• Construction – look for leather or faux leather, depending on your budget. A combination of materials with panels of thick knit hide-your-flaws fabrication (H&M knit and pleather pants pictured) is a flattering option.
• Quantity or quality? If you opt for a “disposable” pair, ensure they aren’t see-through (the ultimate, and trashy no-no). If your ready to make the investment to ensure ample magic moments in your future, look for double stitched seams and overall attention to detail.
• Pairings – let the pants do their magic and keep all accompaniments simple. A glamed-up tee (grey lace trim pictured), lightweight sweater or basic blouse and classic accessories should do the trick.

Now that you’ve got it, flaunt it. And single ladies, don’t blame me if they end up on the floor of your exes bedroom on Sunday morning. Just remember to keep it classy…

Stay tuned and stay stylish.

The menswear-inspired craze is nothing new, in fact we’ve been “borrowing” from the boys for decades. But today I’m talking literally incorporating men’s pieces into your wardrobe – with a feminine touch.  Disclaimer: this is not for everyone, nor does it flatter every figure, so please proceed with caution and as always, use your best judgement.

Check out the men’s section (or big boys if your petite) for everyday essentials to add an unexpectedly inexpensive splash of masculinity to your look. Tailored shirts and lightweight jackets are a safe place to start. I was inspired by a buffalo plaid jacket (for $68) found in the kids section at Nordstrom -  I layered it over a sequin blouse one day, and topped off a lace mini dress the next to strike the perfect balance between feminine and masculine. My next aha moment happened in the men’s section at target when I was drawn to a classic button up in camo (for $22). I cinched the waist with a gold belt paired it with skinny jeans and viola, chic and cheap.

When you begin ”shopping” outside of your designated department, you open the door for cheap thrills, new ideas, and a chance to raid your man’s closet (unless he’s an XLT, in which case I’d leave the big boys clothes for the big boys).  Just be sure to incorporate one of these very feminine add-ons to avoid looking like a man, literally:

• lace
• leather
• sequins
• metallic
• bold lip

Stay tuned and stay stylish.

The New Year is upon us, and what better time to recap our favorite moments – fashion and otherwise – from 2012. Some more memorable than others, lets revisit the year that brought us LiLo on lifetime, neon to last a lifetime, Twilight cheating scandals that devastated many a tween’s lifetime and the coveted Anna Dela Russo for H&M collaboration that no one could get their hands on in this lifetime.

• Instagram - I got hooked because of the various filters to enhance my pics, then Facebook bought it, and now due to revised “privacy” settings all images are owned by Instagram and can be used for profit without owners consent. That’s a bummer… Nonetheless it’s been my go-to platform for sharing what I’m wearing, what I’m eating and everything in between. I even had a moment of insta-fame when Sak’s choose my shoes for a major #shoesday shout out.
• Neon – I was onto neon 2+ years ago, and I like to think I’m not only an “early adopter” but a trendsetter. Even I have to admit neon’s moment was over-the-top obnoxious at times, but a subtle accent or pop really brightened up otherwise dull spring neutrals.
• Colored pants – the new denim “basic”, these babies went from runway to real way once the offering expanded to baby boomer friendly Not Your Daughters Jeans. This signifies 2 things: first and foremost it’s almost – if not already – over and secondly the 80′s have come and gone. Isn’t it a bit early to bring back 90′s grunge?? Oh wait… You have how many flannel shirts in your closet?
• In celebrity gossip news – there was the TomKat divorce, Brangelina engagement, KStew cheating scandal, too many babies and pregnancies to name (JSimps - again already??), another 4 years of Micelle Obama arm-envy, an obsession with Zombies and a slew of stints in rehab, break-ups, hook-ups and otherwise mindless unimportant drama that was captured by paparazzi. Thank you for making us “normal” folks feel good about our lives
• And then there was 50 Shades of Gray – I won’t get into the details but this was a game-changer for women and men alike

What’s next? In 2013 look forward to (assuming the world didn’t end today – and if it did/does by the time you read this, thank you apocalypse for allowing me to post first): a more refined and stylish version of what was. History tends to repeat itself in fashion and beyond. Though we can legally smoke pot in 2 states and gay marriage has extended its arms to embrace more of the country, we’ll probably still enjoy the guilty pleasure of celeb gossip, covet a Chanel classic quilted handbag, wear skinny jeans and fantasize about Ryan Gosling while drinking a bottle of Pinot Noir. Only this year – let’s do all of the above, and a little bit more self-acceptance, show gratitude, volunteer and do any and everything we can to spread love, kindness and compassion.

The world is a beautiful place, no matter what you’re wearing. Happy New Year!

Stay tuned and stay stylish.