The Clutch

Clutches are the perfect way to create a more polished and sophisticated look. The options currently available are no longer limited to just evening bags. Included in this post of some of my favorites. From top left to right: Alexander Wang Isis Clutch - Barneys $1,050 | Balenciaga Giant Envelope - Cultstatus $,1395 | Feather Clutch - Monsoon $56 (£35) | Inge Christopher Theda Oversized Clutch - CoutureCandy $260 | Alexander McQueen Britannia Studded - Zappos $1,954 | Helena de Natalio Giselle Clutch - Endless $137.50 | Valentino Clutch - Colette.fr $3,060 (€2.200 EUR) | Safari Clutch Zebra Print Haircalf - Aspinal of London $490 | Derek Lam Evie Studded Clutch - Barneys $890 | Tylie Malibu Runaway Skinny Python Clutch - Endless $249.16.

Leather, Spikes and Studs

Leather, spikes and studs, worn individually or together, these elements lend an edgy look to any ensemble. Whether your style inspiration is biker babe, rocker or sleek sophistication, the mix of leather and/or metal embellishments are key elements to achieve these looks.

Ode to Chanel

Since 1909, Chanel has revolutionized fashion by establishing itself as a symbol of sophistication, luxury and elegance. Chanel is a fashion institution, widely recognized for its haute couture, leather goods, perfumes, cosmetics and accessories. Chanel's popularity and influence, which spans across all age groups, has led to worldwide demand for its iconic style . As shown in this photos, it's undeniable Chanel adds an element of timeless elegance to any look. Fun fact: Chanel's signature quilted fabric/leather was inspired by the jackets of jockeys. Image credit: Jak and Jil, Stockholm Streetstyle

I wanted to extend a big "THANK YOU" to Karolina of KcomeKarolina for the fabulous CSN giveaway where I was announced the lucky winner! I'm so excited and can't wait to redeem my promotion code. Thanks again Karolina! I'm a regular visitor of Karolina's blog for her style filled posts. Check her blog out here.

Amazing Grace

When I think of Vogue, I think of Grace Coddington. Anna Wintour has been public figure and influential force behind American Vogue, but after the release of the movie "The September Issue", more people came to know Grace Coddington as not only the Creative Director of American Vogue but the style visionary behind the phenomenal editorials. Her early career in fashion was initially as a successful model, later landed a stylist job at British Vogue and eventually joined American Vogue in 1988. Her high fashion, high drama layouts with a signature style aesthetic/approach that incorporates elements of fantasy, movement and storytelling are representative of what Vogue is all about. Simply put, she's a brilliant woman and creative genius. Fun tidbit: Although she can certainly afford a personal driver with her Vogue salary, she still takes the subway to work.

Fur and Fringe

Fur and fringe elements appear everywhere this season; from coats and vests to embelished details on dresses, bags and accessories. Not sure if these editorials exemplify my observations...but although genuine fur has remained a symbol of luxury, there's a noticable awareness and conscious effort from designers to incorporate faux fur into their collections, allowing for PETA friendly options to achieve these luxurious looks. The fringe details have also made a mark this F/W season and not just in leather/suede. Having come a long way from being prevalent staples among hippies and cowboys, decorative fringe elements have also translated into luxurious pieces this season.

Turn up the Volume

While tousled, air-dried waves has been the hairstyle choice for most especially this past summer, high volume hair has made a comeback during F/W 2010 runway shows and editorials. Similar to statement shoes or necklaces, these are undoubtedly statement hairstyles. These voluminous hairstyles certainly do the job of exuding sex appeal and glam. Although dramatic and eye-catching in print, it will be interesting how these bombshell Barbarella locks, brushed back poufs and bouffants will translate into everyday looks on the street...is there such thing as an understated pompadour?

Fall Knits

I witnessed the first glimpse of fall this past weekend with rustling of yellow and burnt orange leaves scattered on the ground and already felt the slight chills of the autumn breeze. With the temperatures dropping, my initial instinct is to throw on a chunky knit sweater. The sense of comfort, warmth and ease of knits make it one of my key fall essentials.

Black on Black

Black is truly one of the more versatile colors in the wardrobe palette. The wonderful thing about black is that depending on how you style (or understyle) a look, you can make a statement or opt for an understated look. When I think of black on black ensembles, the words bold, sleek, sophisticated, strong, edgy, sexy, elegant and glamourous come to mind. What words come to mind when you think of black?

Etsy Picks [ Jewelry ]

I typically scour the thrift and vintage stores for hidden jewelry treasures, but it can be a hit and miss. The great thing about Etsy is that it's a one-stop shop for the most amazing handmade and vintage jewelry. Top Set left to right: Pewter Bamboo Necklace, $70 | Raven Claw Ring, $55 | Deer Antler Necklace, $45 | Stick Branches Cuff, $48 | Art Deco Silver Ring, $32 | Silver Twig Ring, $28 | Staircase Necklace, $18.50 | Vintage Yellow Topaz Ring, $28 | Vintage Rhinestone Clip Earrings, $17 | Bottom Set left to right: Bronze Chainmaille Necklace, $32 | White Mother of Pearl Silver Ring, $45 | Tooth & Nail Leopard Print Bracelet, $42 | Raven Skull Necklace, $25 | Silver Woven Cuff with Studs, $20 | Zipper Necklace, $69 | Vertebrae Necklace, $32 | Feather Ring, $20

Headgear

Headgear...not in terms of helmets or orthodontics, but fashionable headpieces, headbands and headdresses! Many of us have seen the Playboy inspired bunny ears that appeared in the Louis Vuitton Fall 2009 Collection and ad campaign. Since then, I've observed an increasing variety of decorative elements to accessorize one's head. They range from casual scarf headwraps to whimsical minnie mouse inspired to downright theatrical. Streetstyle Photo Credits: StockholmStreetStyle, StreetHearts. Where to buy: Jennifer Behr (shown in 2nd set, top row), Jasmin Sparrow (feathered headdress)

I wanted to say THANK YOU to Sarah from Sarah's Fashion Diary for The Versatile Blogger Award. :) I'm thrilled to receive this award and greatly appreciate the recognition. Check out Sarah's blog if you aren't already a follower. She's incredibly passionate about fashion and her blog is always a treat to visit. :) There are literally toooo many wonderful blogs to narrow down to just a few, so I'd like to extend this Versatile Blogger Award to all the amazing bloggers out there that are inspired by the creative and artistic spirit of fashion. This inspiration is truly what keeps us blogging! :)

Walk-Ins

One of my favorite scenes from the 1st Sex and the City movie was when Mr. Big unveils the gorgeous custom walk-in closet (aka walk-in wardrobe). I recall there was a sudden hush of momentary silence from all the ladies in the audience, including myself, who were in complete awe. These amazing walk-ins undoubtedly rival Carrie Bradshaw's closet. Image Source: DecorPad

Shoe Gallery

Something about shoes kicks our excitement into overdrive. While I can be wishy washy when purchasing apparel, I'm quite decisive about buying shoes especially when something catches my eye. Can I get this in a size 7.5/8 please?! I'm notorious for falling head over heels in love with a pair of shoes, wearing it once and hoarding them like precious keepsakes. We adorn our feet with these pieces of artwork and as painful as it may be at times to walk in, we love our shoes. Fun fact: As you get older, your feet tend to get longer and wider; even up to 1 whole shoe size!  Image Sources: StockholmStreetstyle, WeHeartIt

Window Shopping

With fall right around the corner, thought I'd do some (online) window shopping... Top set: White Wool Cashmere Cape - Isabella Oliver, $389 | Floral Quilted Bag - ASOS, $37.07 | Balmain Leather Biker Jacket - Browns, $9,190 | Elizabeth and James Silk-Georgette Skirt - Net-a-Porter, $265 | Lace Shorts - TopShop, $60 | Tempest Platform Shoe - ASOS, $70.77 | Nicholas King Bangle - Matches, $110.16 | Burberry Amber Faceted Ring - theOutnet.com, $138.25 | Bottom Set: Alexander Wang Cropped Pullover - La Garconne, $375 | DKNY Quilted Leather Bag - Net-a-Porter, $345 | Tory Burch Green Canvas Leather Booties - Intermix, $395 | Optical Phenomenon Jacket - Modcloth, $74.99 | Opt for Art Striped Vest - Modcloth, $37.99 | Polka Dot Shirt - ModeKungen, $74.14.

ASOS Promotion: Free shipping both ways on all U.S. Orders through 8-31-2010.

Kate the Great

I've been admiring Kate Lanphear, Style Director of US Elle, for some time now and as do many others. I'm fascinated with her platinum short do, her David Bowie meets rocker/biker chick, tom boyish sense style and have such respect for her incredible career spanning from Vogue Australia, then to Harper's Bazaar and currently at US Elle. Her trademark look is typically minimal makeup, androgynous separates but totally rocks the bold, urban, feminine ensembles and adorned in amazing metallic accessories. After reading this NYMag interview, I like her even more. Photo Credits: StockholmStreetstyle, Zimbio, JakandJil, Citizen Couture

So Lovely in Lace

Although I currently don't own too many lace pieces in my wardrobe, these looks have truly given me some great inspiration for fall. The look of lace is undoubtedly feminine, elegant and sultry to say the least.

Up Close and Personal

I find myself always drawn to the streetstyle photographs that take on an up close perspective. These shots are often just as, if not more interesting than the overall look of the subject. Sometimes it's all about the details...

Photocredit: StockholmStreetStyle

Going Military [Style]

Seems the military inspired fashion from spring/summer will likely carry through into fall/winter. Key essentials of this look...colors: shades of green.grey.beige, fabrics/materials: leather.canvas.twill.wool, paired with: leather lace up ankle boots. My favorite look from above is the hooded jacket over the white skirt; must be the mix of military ruggedness with the femininity of an ever so pretty skirt.

Bohemian Rhapsody

Prints, floppy hats, suede/leather, faux fur trim and weathered denim are elements of the boho, hippie look. While the boho trend may come and go and have surfaced in different variations (bourgeois bohème, hobo grunge, boho rock), something about the casual folksy feel of this look resonates with my inner flower child...

Esty Picks Part Deux [ Vintage Finds ]

As a follow up to Etsy Picks Part 1, it didn't take me very long to come across these fabulous vintage finds. If any of you have any favorite Etsy sellers, please do share! Starting from top, left to right: Black Suede Winged Pumps (7), $75 | Victorian Pendant Necklace, $26 | Polka Dot Blouse (s/m), $22 | Wicker Handbag with Chain Strap, $125 | Tropical Print Romper (m/l), $36 | Camel Loafers (7.5), $30 | Grey Herringbone Pattern Pleated Skirt and Jacket (m), $35 | Floral Print Tunic Dress (s/m), $26 | Leather Wristlet Clutch, $42 | Blue Peep Toes (7.5), $26 | Black Lace Shift Dress (m), $42 | Wool Jacket (s/m), $148 | Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Bevy of Brooches

Your grandmother isn't the only one donning brooches these days. Jeweled and ornamental brooches have made their appearances on runways, celebrities and fashion editorials. I find them most distinctively charming when worn in unconventional ways; as hair accessories (on headbands for example), on jeans, clutches and handbags, belts, necklaces and even shoes. Below from top left to right: Bronze Crystal & Pearl - Avalaya, $24 | Diamante B/W Bow Tie - Avalaya, $18 | Flower Corsage - TopShop, $18 | Military Safety Pin - ASOS, $10.15 | Art Deco Pin - Newport News, $15 | Zipper Flower Brooch - TopShop, $12.50 | Kenneth Jay Lane Gold-plated Snake - Net-A-Porter, $110 | Teal Cat with Bow Tie - Avalaya, $23 | Diamante Corsage (Multicolor) - Avalaya, $27 | Lizard - FantasyJewelryBox, $28.95