Two fall trends I'm super psyched about...

It's so haaarrrrd... to say goodbyyyyyeeee...

I absolutely love summer. To me, everything from the blazing hot sun, tan skin, slower pace and easy, breezy outfits is just divine. And even though I find fall beautiful as well, I have trouble letting go of my favorite season. Which is why I try to lean on another love, fashion, to get me excited about the change. Though I may shed a tear as I think about tucking away my flip flops and sundresses, I confess to being a smidge excited to break out my wedge booties, burgundy "leather" jacket (thank you Forever 21) and some Oxblood nail polish. I also love seeing what trends the fashion industry is pumping out at the start of a new season, in an attempt, as always, to convince us that what we wore last year is no longer cool and we need to replace and replenish. For this, I am a sucker... savvy (I like to think) but a sucker. But this year there are 2 looks I'm especially psyched to see in stores and 100% going to be investing in.

* Bell Bottoms & Flair Jeans

For hippies and everyone else!

I have always loved this style pant. As someone with a booty and thick-ass thighs (actual name) skinny jeans have never made me look... errr... skinny, but my beloved flares and bells certainly do. This trend is popping up everywhere and it's one every body type can pull off. Your best fit is going to be snug through the waist and thighs and then flared between the knee and mid-shin to whatever size "bell" you feel comfortable with. And unless you are a long-legged goddess, pop on a comfortable wedge or heel (which is covered by the bell) to create the illusion of longer-then-reality stems. Not sure about the trend? Start off with an inexpensive pair from somewhere like American Eagle (this place is actually my go-to for all jeans and I've rocked a great pair of flairs from here for years). Another perk of inexpensive options? You can buy more than one, at different lengths, to suit your different shoe heights:)

* T-Strap heels

I don't know why, but I love the throw-back, vintage-y look of t-strap shoes. As a high heel, a t-strap creates the illusion of a long and elegant foot and overall, the look manages to seem trendy and fashionable while still classic and mature. I spotted these lovely guys in the Nine West window a few weeks back and resisted the urge to buy them seeing as the last thing on the planet I need are more heels, but I'm still thinking about them and my resolve is weakening... 

Not sure about the t-strap? I'm seeing a whole lot of Mary Janes out there as well. Whatever your preference, this fall I think it's going to be all about the strap-on (hehe) heel. 

Croc Confessions

Cute. Comfy. Croc. (3 words I would not expect together!)

The sun is shining, temperatures are high and it would seem, that maybe, just maybe, spring is here to stay and summer is actually on the horizon (huzzah!!) Over weekend, in an attempt to enjoy this amazing turn of events, I spent lots of time outdoors, walking around, and I was once again faced with a crisis many women are familiar with... the age-old fashion vs. function debacle. 

I have always been a fashion over function lady (duh), but as my knees and back grow older (WTF!?) and my patience for discomfort gets shorter (I'm only human!), my quest to find shoes that look adorable, but also support a full day on my feet has become a priority. So yesterday, as I was strolling Soho in sassy, strappy sandals which felt only marginally more supportive than if I'd been walking barefoot (arg!), a moment of desperation and curiosity led me into the Crocs store. That's right, I said Crocs. And I found THESE and they are, my friends, a game changer. Made of that magical lightweight croc material that is somehow both cushiony and supportive, I slipped on the Leigh Wedge and knew I'd found a solution to my fashion vs. function summer shoe situation. These bad boys are so comfortable and so cute, I might even purchase a second pair in a different color (I bought "storm mushroom" which is pale blue/demin looking over a tan wedge). 

Now this hearty endorsement of a Croc style does not mean I am behind going full Mario Batali (just, NO, not ever), but if you're looking for an adorable summer shoe that's both comfortable and cute, the Crocs Leigh Wedge is the shoe for you!  

The crop top or NOT top?

Last week, when I was opining on spring 2015 fashion, my always chic, friend-of-the-blog Ms. (parent)thetically speaking asked in the comments section for my thoughts on wearing the (tasteful, tiny-bit-revealing) crop top trend. Girl, how do you read my mind so well!?

About a month ago, when I was having a particularly fit and healthy-eating week, I found myself in Zara, trying on THIS adorable eyelet crop top. On that miraculous Saturday, with normal waist-height jeans and a top sized to mostly cover me unless I lifted my arms, I was feeling body confident and trim and I said "I can pull this off tastefully!" so bought it. Full disclosure - I have yet to actually wear this top out of the house. I had it on vacation (where the weather was warm and crop-top friendly) but each time I tried to compose an outfit I liked, I worried that I would look silly, age-inappropriate, or if I'm being really honest, fat. Did I make a bad purchase!?

Here are some must-considers for those ladies thinking about sporting the crop top trend:

1) Does the shirt look well made? I think for those of us in the 30+ age bracket, fabric and cut of the shirt are vitally important. In my opinion, anyone older than a college co-ed is past being able to pull off a flimsy, short cotton crop top (anywhere other than the beach) without looking like she's trying too hard. Buying something structured, barely-belly-baring and well made with a quality fabric will ensure the youthful trend looks mature on you.

2) Do you own pants or skirts that will compliment the shirt? Not just from a style standpoint, but from the even more important flattering-fit standpoint. Even the tiniest of women can end up with a little muffin top over fitted pants or a tight-waisted skirt. Before going crop top, make sure you have bottoms that fit you well without cutting you off.

3) Do you have the confidence? This last question is probably most important. I believe there is no age when showing a little bit of toned tummy is not sexy and chic, but you have to feel comfortable rockin the look to really pull it off. 

Merry Meri Verdict: No need to be stick-thin or 18 years old for this trend, it's all about the outfit you compose - where the shirt hits you, how your pants sit, etc. etc. You'll know the right setting (a summer picnic, al fresco dinner with friends...), you have the tools to pick the right top, now you just have to bring the babe!

Spring, spring, wherefore art thou!?

Hello!? Are you there?!

Here in NYC, springtime has been taking its sweet ass time making an appearance and though it is reasonable to hope that our puffer jacket days are behind us (knock wood) we're still hovering around chilly temps and the skies have been mostly grey. WHERE ARE YOU SPRING!?

Encouraged by the influx of tulips and daffodils at my local bodega, I thought I'd spend today talking about a few trends I'm noticing for spring. If we will the weather to get there it has got to happen eventually right!?

* Shirt Dresses

Generally speaking, there hasn't been much in the spring store windows that's jumped out or really excited me, but the steady stream of shirt dresses I'm seeing does make me happy. Shirt dresses are the perfect way to dress up or down with one piece, since you can pop on anything from ballet flats and converse, to wedges and sassy lipstick to make the look whatever you want. 

Merry Meri Verdict: Buy one, or three! These dresses are super versatile and pretty timeless.

* Fringe

Mom told me that fringe was "hot this season" and since when do moms not know best!? Whether on accessories like a purse, or on jackets or the bottom of a long shirt or skirt, this trend can easily turn cowboy if you're not careful, but done right, it definitely says chic.

Merry Meri Verdict: Scoop up one or two inexpensive pieces that you can wear to rock this trend and then guiltlessly set aside when the fringe moment is over (or you're not headed to a music festival:)

* Culottes

Also known as the look many of us will attempt, but few of us will succeed with, culottes are wide leg pants usually cut somewhere above the ankle and below the knee. The look is especially tricky to pull off for those of us not blessed with model-esque stems (or quads with any sort of thickness) but I'm going to try on pair after pair hoping to find ones that work for me (though this look, along with the still popular midi skirt, just may not pan out!)

Merry Meri Verdict: Proceed with caution!

* Floral Prints

I absolutely love bold colors and prints so it should come as no surprise that I love the continuing presence of vibrant floral prints on the runways and in stores. This trend is a lot about personal taste since you can wear anything from a floral pop on one item of clothing (stretchy jeans or a sheer tank) to a full-body floral look, just be careful that you don't end up looking like you had a run-in with the local florist (or worse, your grandmother's curtains!)

Merry Meri Verdict: The perfect way to freshen up your look after a chilly winter hibernation!

*One-Shoulder Shirts/Dresses

The latest in "if you wait long enough, all things come back into style", the early 00's 1-shoulder look appears to be making a comeback. I always found this neckline particularly flattering for women's shoulders and collarbones (a very often forgotten but oh-so-sexy body part) and the singe strap avoids the dreaded "armpit fat" and constant tugging of something totally strapless.

Merry Meri Verdict: I wouldn't go crazy buying up this trend since it's such a "look", but if you see one or two items that look pretty, scoop them up for this spring/summer!

I'm sorry Oscar...

Birdman joke or not, Oscar hosts should
keep their clothing on at all times.

What better way to get back into the blogging groove than to talk about Hollywood, movies and fashion!? For those of you who may have missed it, last night Hollywood got all dolled up for the Oscars and if you missed it, you actually didn't miss much. My two cents:

* I thought Neil Patrick Harris was pretty terrible. I generally love me some Doogie Howser, but his hosting style better suits the schtick of the Tonys than the Academy Awards. He had a few good zingers (an opening dig about the lack of black nominees seemed promising) but generally I thought he fell flat.

* The show overall was a serious snooze. Dr. H and I actually tuned out in favor of our DVR because as much as I appreciate the brilliant costuming, editing, producing, scoring that makes up so much of the movies we love, seeing those awards handed out isn't really what we're tuning in for.

* Lady Gaga are you serious!? Put away the crazy costumes and be this version of your talented self always. 

* Who was feeling the girl power last night!? Patricia Arquette made a passionate call for equal rights for women during her acceptance speech (Meryl and JLo loved it!)

* While we're discussing last night's feminist vibe, not sure how I felt about the #AskHerMore campaign, aimed at getting red carpet presenters to talk about more substantive things with actresses than just gowns and diets. While I agree that women are often asked incredibly sexist/objectifying questions, the red carpet is a lot about the fashion. I think for this campaign to have legs it needs to be applied to non-red carpet moments.

Ok, enough rambling... let's look at some fancy people in fancy clothes shall we!? There were not many looks that blew me away last night and several of my reliable favorites left me scratching my head or straight up shakin it...

Rosamund Pike in Givenchy

Remember when I questioned Rosamund's fashion decision at the Golden Globes because it was unflattering? Well, I'll shut up now. Holy WOW!

Margot Robbie in Saint Laurant

This is a pretty sexy look and I really like how Margot is rockin it. It manages to maintain some elegance while being very rock and roll. Her necklace is the perfect accessory and I also like the bold lip and lob (long-bob that is!)

Lupita Nyong'o in Calvin Klein

I can't decide what I feel about this. From far away the dress is stunning and the detailed pearls on top of pearls concept is amazing, but up close for me it didn't look quite as glam. I dunno... a dress made entirely of pearls is pretty fabulous!

Cate Blanchett in Martin Margiela Couture

I love this look. While I confess it's very basic and not exactly daring, the silhouette is working wonders on Cate and her statement necklace and hair are perfection. 

Reese Witherspoon in Tom Ford

Reese, I am Bored with a capital B. Though this simple dress and hair combo is beautiful on you, I feel like I've seen you wear this look on every red carpet these past few years. I dare you to be a bit more adventurous. 

Julianne Moore in Chanel

I count on Julianne for effortless style and grace, but unfortunately I think this dress is a miss. Though the fit is divine, the color is washing her out and the strangely placed rows of darker beading create a strange overall shape.

Naomi Watts in Armani Prive

I can't totally hate this dress, but the thing it reminds me of most is a cobblestone Soho street. Not ideal right? Naomi looks stunning, but I just can't support the bricky look.

Dressing & Impressing - tis (nearly) the season!

Fact... Until February. I'll be over it by February.

Ladies... we are officially at mid-November which means in 4 short weeks "Holiday Party Season" will be upon us (possibly sooner depending on when your December social calendar commitments begin!) I always love and simultaneously hate Holiday Party Season because:

1) dressing for these parties can be tricky, especially if it's an office or work-related function;

2) dressing for these parties can be pricy, since stores know just when to mark up their holiday-perfect pieces;

3) dressing for these parties can be glamorous, because there are so many chic black, gold, red and deep green options out there; and

4) dressing for these parties can be fun because holiday cheer looks great on everyone!

Here to help you get ahead of the shopping rush are a few gorgeous dresses I've spotted recently and how I'd wear them.

I absolutely adore this dress. I think it is chic, feminine, ever so slightly sexy, but without question elegant. Perfect for a holiday season wedding or a cocktail attire seasonal party, though a bit pricey, this dress is sure to turn heads. And just think, it will be perfect for Valentine's Day too:) Buy it HERE.

Is your office holiday party at the office or does it begin immediately after work making a "costume change" impossible (or maybe just inappropriate?) All three of the dresses above could transition beautifully from desk to dancing, have a little pop of holiday cheer (love that sassy gold belt!) and won't leave any co-workers questioning your taste for the office or the party! Buy it HERE, HERE and HERE.

If you're looking for a bolder, more unique holiday party look that is still unquestionably sophisticated, I love this jumpsuit. Pair it with high heels, statement earrings and maybe even a thin gold belt to take the look straight into holiday party rock star status. Buy it HERE.

Finally, if your holiday party is all about bringing the glam, this dress is the one for you. Just as fancy, but a whole lot more sassy than the lil red number I posted first, this dress does beading and sequins without screaming dance costume or flapper. I think it's stunning and could be paired with strappy, sexy shoes or black tights and heels depending on how high you want to turn it up. Buy it HERE.

Hump Day Distractions

Hump Day Photobomb.

Another week, another Wednesday my friends. Here's new batch of distractions from around the web to get you through to the other side. Enjoy!

* Because you definitely need more rainbow-colored sheep in your life.

* Ziplock bags always make me feel super wasteful and un-eco-friendly. Perhaps THESE are a solution!?

* Some more fall fashion tips (including one awesome fall trend I definitely overlooked on Monday, hooray for hats!!!)

* This recipe is tailgate food perfection (or any time really... when isn't a good time for a mini hotdog!?).

* This story of a terminally ill 29-year old woman who is electing to end her own life is sad, touching and thought provoking. I encourage you to take a few minutes to learn about Brittany.

* Part of her wonderful "Motherhood Around the World" series, CupofJo asks Moms from other countries to comment on motherhood in America. The feedback is fascinating!

* I do love flamingos... 

* This is like joy overdrive.

Fall Fashion

Absolutely autumn chic.

This weekend's weather left no room for doubt that autumn has in fact arrived. Crisp air and chilly temps had everyone reaching for their closed toe shoes, leather jackets and pumpkin spice lattes which means it's about time that I chimed in on the latest fall trends! Here for your reading pleasure is a bit of what I'm seeing out there and how I feel about it.

* Ankle Boots

A bootie for all ankles....

Booties, booties, booties... if you have not already caved in to this trend, it's time to get on board because the ankle height boot which arrived last fall doesn't appear to be going anywhere! Whether you're considering a wedge or a heel, I think the key to rocking this trend is actually the height and shape of the top ankle side of the shoe. If you are not as leggy-inclined like myself, consider silhouettes that slope down or are lower in the front (HERE, HERE, HERE) to elongate your legs instead of something that cuts your legs off more squarely (HERE, HERE, HERE). And for a few helpful tips on how to handle cuffing your jeans with ankle boots, click HERE.

Merry Meri Verdict - There's a bootie out there for you. Find it and embrace the trend!

* Leather Accents

Add some edge with leather

One undeniable trend this fall is leather/pleather accents on all matter of clothing. I've seen it everywhere from Banana to Loft, from leggings to work dresses. A little leather is clearly the "it" fabric for this fall. I love this trend as a way to add some edge to an otherwise professional or casual look, but it's important not to go overboard. Stick to accents that pop your outfit up a notch (like this shirt or this shirt, this dress, or these leggings!) or go all the way with one leather piece (this skirt, these pants) and keep the rest of the outfit more understated.

Merry Meri Verdict - Get your leather on ladies!!

* Wrap Coats

Wrap it up!

This fall trend may have limited utility (once the chillier temps hit, having an open neck/belt-only coat may not be warm enough) but how cozy do those coats look?! For wrap coats, finding the right style at the right price point is probably key, and adding volume in a warm fall shade looks gorgeously chic. Some options at various price points HERE, HERE, HERE and of course my (unaffordable) favorite of the bunch HERE.

Merry Meri Verdict - Shop saavy, consider a bolder color, get it girl.

Other looks I love that seem to be sticking around from last year - layers and leggings, chambray shirts, utility jackets and big plaid scarves.

An All-Things-Emmys Roundup

Well done buddy!

Did you watch the Emmys last night? Dr. H and I tuned in for the whole 3 hours and were fairly entertained the entire time which for an awards show is a pretty big feat! I thought Seth Meyers did a great job hosting and while I didn't agree with (several) of the winners, I thought the Emmy's were, overall, an excellent evening for my beloved boob tube (we watched EVERY show nominated in more than a few categories. #shamelesscouchpotatoes) Here is a roundup of my thoughts, the fashion and some highlights from last night's show.

* For me, THIS was the funniest bit of the night (and not just because I walked past Billy filming it last week!)

* I thought a LOT of stars brought their A-Game to the red carpet but some personal favorites were:

Lizzy Caplan looking somehow even hotter
than she does (naked!) on Masters of Sex. 

SYTYCD host- robbed of an Emmy, but not
red carpet glory. Cat Deeley for the win!

Sarah Hyland with an age-appropriate
but still classy crop-top look. NICE.

Hayden making pregnancy on the
red carpet look SO good (not easy!)

Honorable mentions to Amy Poehler, Michelle Dockery and January Jones (As for Sarah Paulson... at least you didn't get any mosquito bites!?) For more Emmy fashion favorites (from the experts) click HERE, HERE and HERE

* Look out for Netflix network/cable tv! Last night's bevy of nominees from the streaming service's hit shows like Orange is the New Black and House of Cards were a pretty clear indication of where tv taste is headed. I thought this commercial summed the whole thing up pretty nicely.

* Weird Al is not aging. Also, he's still pretty funny.

* I do not understand the obsession with Amazing Race and Big Bang Theory. Honestly. What am I missing!?!
* THIS is the guy who directed True Detective. He and Willie Nelson obviously share a hair stylist.
* I love Modern Family and have seen just about every episode, but come on. This past season especially, I have a hard time ranking them as better than the actors and shows they were up against.

* I think I need to start watching Sherlock.

Where's my invitation to The Ball!?

As a New York City gal and lover of all things high brow and high fashion, the Met Costume Gala has always been my absolute holy grail, "wish upon a star" NYC event. Infinitely more glamorous than opening night at the opera or ballet, I would, without hesitation, give anything for a chance to attend the Met Ball (who needs a first born anyway!?). 

For those not determined to sell their soul in exchange for a night on the town, the Costume Institute Gala, popularly known as the Met Gala or Met Ball, is an annual fundraising gala to benefit the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute. The event is widely regarded as one of the most exclusive social events in NYC and one of its biggest fundraising nights (a reported $9 million raised in 2013!). The affair has been held at the Met since 1971 and is considered to be the fashion industry's premier annual red carpet event.

And just when you thought it couldn't get any better... the party has a THEME!! (you all know how I luuurve a good theme party!) Unlike last year's "punk theme" (ick), this year ladies are requested to pay tribute to Charles James (a fashion designer known as America's first couturier, so ready your ball gowns girls!) and men are left to interpret "White Tie and Decorations" (Fred Astaire meets Office Space!?) I cannot tell you how many dresses I flip past in magazines or thumb wistfully in stores and think "if only I had somewhere to wear it..." and lordy that somewhere would be the Met Ball.

While I await an invitation to Monday's big soiree from Karl Lagerfeld or for Tom Brady to take me instead of Gisele, anyone willing to foot the $25,000 per ticket price (up a measly $10k from last year!) in the name of making Merry Meri dreams come true, do be in touch:)  

Spring (your closet) forward!

pastel, midi, sporty... spring 2014

Even though the weather is STILL not cooperating, all my favorite spots to shop are jam packed with spring fashion and I've started picking up a few new pieces to spruce up the 'ol wardrobe. As usual, I'm focused on procuring a mix of timeless and trendy additions, considering price point, wear-to-work-ability and overall utility before I make any purchases. Far from an expert, but always the avid fashion fan, here's a little of what I'm seeing out there and how I'm feelin about it.

* Pale and Pastel

Pale but oh so pretty

I am a black, white or bright colors girl at heart, so this season's pale pink, barely there light blue and 50 shades of peach are not the most inspiring to me. Nevertheless, once I get to trying on, I love the flirty femininity that styling with these colors can invoke and adding brightly colored accessories really makes your look pop (see that necklace above!) Definitely going to be even more flattering and fun once we all get a little bit of sunshine on our skin, look for feminine shapes and fabrics (e.g., silk, flowy dresses, scalloped hemlines) to capture the romance of this season's popular palette.

Merry Meri Vedict: Do!

* Midi length skirts

The midi.

Much like the crop top before it (which FYI is definitely still hanging around for another year!) this look is one I desperately want to embrace, but can't seem to pull off. Midi skirts (often pleated) fall just at the knee or down to mid-calf (hence "midi") and tend to be slightly fuller looking. Based on my "have tried on at least 20 already" experience, this 2014 trend is best worn by ladies with long legs and little to no hips or junk in the trunk. Though I'm not ready to give up yet, this is a tricky trend to pull off.

Merry Meri Verdict: Do it, but with a discerning eye. No trend is worth sporting an unflattering outfit.

* Crazy Ear Embellishments

Holy Earring!

I loooove me some accessories and I'm all about a funky piece, but this season's wild ear cuffs and long over the ear earrings are pretty next level. First spotted on the red carpet during awards season, the trend appears to have gone main stream with options available everywhere from Bloomies to Forever 21. 

Merry Meri Verdict: Don't (unless looking like a Lord of the Rings character is your thing)

* Sporty & Menswear inspired

Get. The. Look.

The yin to that midi skirt's yang, this year's prevalence of athletic looks and tuxedo inspired suits and pants are a gift from the curvy girl gods. These looks are also extremely comfortable, with looser cuts and more classic lines... even well styled sneakers are making an appearance this season (if Vogue says it, it must be true right!?) Pick up pants with that tuxedo stripe for work and an "elegant sweatshirt" for Saturday and you'll be all set. 

Merry Meri Verdict: Definite do!

High Fashion Paper.

Meet "Mayhem". Mayhem and her mama Angie (of the Instagram feed @2sisters_angie) are paper dress designer extraordinaires, whose fashion talents have recently exploded Mom's Instagram following and landed them features on top websites like Huffington Post. Initially just a mama sharing the creative outlet she'd come up with for her fashion-focused 4-year old, the duo's "creating dresses with paper" idea took an amazing turn for the fabulous:

And don't you dare assume that the creativity stops at original designs! The two are pros at capturing the latest in Hollywood fashion as well: 

I cannot even handle the fabulousity of this little lady or her Mom's incredible eye/off the charts creativity! To keep up with Angie and Mayhem on their paper fashion journey, click HERE to follow on Instagram or check out their blog HERE. Work it girls!!!