Pre-Fall is all about the feminine details

It can be uninspiring to look at the debut of the pre-fall 2011 collections while it's freezing and snowy outside.  The thought of doing it all over again with new coats and sweaters and layers is pretty daunting.  But the current outpourings from various designers is making the thought bearable--exciting, even!!  There are some absolutely amazing pieces taking hold in New York right now and some definite trends are emerging.  We especially love the femininity of the looks--so many designers are going for gorgeous ruffles, feathers, bows, and shapely silhouettes.  And, of course, there's plenty of pink, cream, red, and other wonderfully fun colors.  What an excellent antithesis to minimalism (though, of course, we love that too!!)

Below are some current favorite looks from designers like Nina Ricci, Lanvin, Oscar de la Renta, and Valentino.  The billowy fabric is just gorgeous and we love getting swept up in the lovely details.

Carolina Herrera, Oscar de la Renta, Lanvin, Nina Ricci, Valentino 

Pre-fall will be a chance to show off some luscious ensembles and we cannot wait!  For now, though, it's time to keep donning snow boots and plenty of cashmere...

Sweater Love

Definitely obsessing over sweaters right now (but then again, who isn't!)  We love everything this season has to offer, from oversized chunky knits to structured cardigans to classics like Fair Isle pullovers.  On so many runways the sweaters were definitely front & center, pulling the entire outfit together.  Here are a few curent faves:

Tory Burch, Mulberry, Marc Jacobs, Lutz & Patmos, Luisa Beccaria

I just love how much of a STATEMENT they make!  They're not over-the-top, but they definitely don't fade into the background.  There seems to be so much focus on cut, color, embellishments, and material. Also loving how classic all of these looks are!  The models look so polished and put together in neutral colors, preppy pumps, and simple skirts.  Adorable!!!

To get the look at Gramercy, Kitty pulled a few new favorite sweaters off our racks from Jodi Arnold and Tibi.  On the left is a lucious grey cashmere pullover from Jodi Arnold with a removable cowl neck. The cut is loose in the body but fitted at the sleeves and waist for great balance.  Pair it with riding boots and a colorful silk scarf for classic elegance!  Also we LOVE this pink cardigan from Tibi, which is perfect for skirts and cozy dresses!

Here's another amazing pullover from Jodi Arnold, which again balances draping and fit.  Love that chain neckline detail--it kind of reminds me of a more subtle version of this amazing Michael Kors creation... 

What's your current sweater obsession?

Get the Look: Jil Sander

Even though it was a few weeks ago, we still CANNOT get over the Jil Sander Spring/Summer 2011 show in Milan.  Seriously, it ruined us.  Every look from that show belongs in a fashion museum (and, of course, in my closet...!)

Fashion editors everywhere fell in love with the show, for good reason.  The looks are classic couture, echoing vintage YSL and Lanvin silhouettes.  We love how the draping fabric elongates the figure without overpowering it, combining both curves and straight lines.  No doubt, we want the look NOW!  So what are the essential elements of the Jil Sander runway?  Well...

 The detail at the waist is signature haute couture, and is the most important element.  It creates instant structure, breaks up the straight lines of the ensemble, and adds drama.  Keep the rest of the outfit simple (but never bland!), add considered bursts of color in a skirt or a clutch, and top it off with neutral, elegant, sky-high heels!

This minimal glamour can work everywhere, from gala events to everyday wear.  We created our own Jil Sander-inspired look, perfect for everything from shopping around town to going to dinner to strolling through the city at night!  First, the most crucial element: the amazing leather belt by B-Low the Belt.  This accessory is a MUST-HAVE!  It adds tailored structure to every outfit--from a top and pants to a dress!  We paired it with a clean white top from Minnie Mortimer and, of course, some black skinny jeans!

Pull it all together with one of our amazing bright pouches by Stephanie Johnson and your favorite pair of nude or black heels!  This look is so versatile and so fashionable for this season.  You really can't go wrong with it!

You Need This Now: Chunky Sweater

Clockwise, from top left: Chloe, Elie Tahari, Stella McCartney, Cerruti, Akris, Chanel, Etro, Loewe, Undercover, Chanel

 If we learned anything from the Fall 2010 RTW runway shows, it's that staying warm doesn't have to sacrifice looking luxe.  Between the structured coats, fabulous fur, dramatic capes, and shearling jackets, we were convinced we wouldn't be freezing this winter!  Designers from Akris to Undercover featured thick, chunky, oversized knits, as pictured in the collage above.  We love the weightiness of these pieces, and their ability to be worn a myriad of different ways.  Pair it with bare legs (Stella McCartney) for asymmetry, or tights (Chanel) or slim pants (Akris) for a tailored look.  Or go all-out and wear voluminous pants (Undercover, Chanel) or skirts (Cerruti) for a fully February look!  However you wear the thick knit sweater, there's no disputing that you NEED it.

Jodi Arnold close-up

We pulled two of our fave chunky sweaters off the rack for styling.  Kitty paired the grey cocoon sweater by Jodi Arnold with a purple linen Love Quotes scarf and a leather Kage bag.  This sweater lives up to its name--you will hibernate in it!  We love the short sleeves and stand up collar--it maintains structure and fit.

Adam sweater, side view

She also layered a cream sweater by Adam with a lime Love Quotes scarf, a white Tibi blouse, and a tan leather belt.  The sweater is one of Adam's fall favorites, with thick cable knitting down the front and a great structured shoulder.

We know we CANNOT go through fall without a chunky sweater!  Especially with so many amazing designs from our favorite labels!!