Trending: Varsity Blues

Sooner than we know it, the "Back to School" sales will be rolling out and we'll have our sights set on crisper air and school supplies.  Even if we're all grown up.  I still have to cruise by the school supplies at Target.... can't stop won't stop...

As I've been browsing through the internet trying to latch on to the next fashion trends, I've found something!  There's a definite sense of kickback to old-school varsity activewear -- but with an awesome vintage twist.  It's like digging up the old track suits from some hidden closet back in your old high school and finding a new and revived sense of purpose for it.  (Or is that just gross?)

 

Elizabeth and James Kent Skirt | SHOPBOP (clipped to polyvore.com)

Elizabeth and James Ruben Drawstring Pants (see more drawstring pants)

3.1 Phillip Lim Phoenix Bomber Jacket (see more blouson jackets)

HELMUT Helmut Lang Pull On Leather Shorts (see more drawstring shorts)

Notice a couple common threads?  Elastic waistbands, drawstrings, and that 3.1 Philip Lim jacket is such an awesome take on the feel of a 70's era letterman jacket (Grease, anyone?).

How to wear it?  Not with gym shoes!  Notice how the bottoms all have feminine shoes -- a strappy sandal is a sexy counterpart to a tomboyish piece.  Add a classic feminine piece to counteract the zaniness of this trend and you're right on.  Pretty cool!  

Thinking ahead: Motor head.

When fall merchandise starts to roll out in stores it never fails to take me by surprise. It's like seeing Christmas trees out in supermarkets in October. It never seems quite right. That doesn't stop me from taking a full pause to take it in and get a little preview of whatever I'll be obsessing over in the months to come, though. 

There's something about fall that always brings out a badass side of my style. Have I taken it as far as motorcycle boots? No. Not yet, at least. But these caught my eye! I love the idea of pairing them with something a little girly-- maybe even a flowy skirt with a chunky sweater thrown over. Or with a sundress during the transitional weather. Or, of course, with a crisp pair of skinny jeans. (Always a classic.) 

What do you think? Let's go moto?

Nine West 'Sabady' Bootie Womens Black Leather Size 8 M 8 M (see more black cowboy boots)

Vince Camuto 'Tipper' Boot Womens Black Size 7.5 M 7.5 M (see more western boots)

Valentino 'Rockstud' Biker Boot Womens Black Size 41 EU 41 EU (see more leather shoes)

Fall wardrobe essentials

Happy fall, readers!  I can't believe how fast summer has gone by, but when I look at the beautiful colors around me I don't mind it so much!  Not to mention, I'm able to turn over a whole part of my wardrobe that hasn't been seen since the beginning of time (or, um... April). 

I'm not really one to store all of my seasonal clothes (with the exception of big huge coats and super-obvious summer pieces).  I kind of have a core set of clothes that stays with me throughout the year.  I also make it my goal to make those pieces mixable.  Mike and I enjoyed a lovely date night earlier this week, and I wore some of my basic core pieces:  a grey jacket, a black tank, skinny jeans, booties, and a gray scarf.  I felt sleek and very ready for fall.

Just like core wardrobe pieces, I also find that I have core wristwear pieces!  I actually have a drawer in my bedroom just chock full of bangles and bracelets.  (I guess I'm not really one to merchandise my own stuff -- Ha!)  When I throw together an outfit, I reach in and start grabbing ones that call to me for the day.  

So, obviously, there are days when I'll feel like getting a little bit more creative with what I wear.  Then there are the days where I just need my basics to tide me over while still pulling the hard work.  What are your core pieces that stay in your wardrobe?

Rebecca Taylor spins fall trends just right

One of my absolute favorite designers EVER is Rebecca Taylor.  I love everything that she creates with a serious passion.  Everything invokes individuality and femininity, yet is backed by a smoldering, nearly massive sense of style and profoundness.  She masterfully mixes ideas in fashion, creating real pieces for the modern woman.  I bow my head to thee, Rebecca.

While I'm over here having a complete and total fit, check out some of the pieces from her fall collection.

Rebecca Taylor top (see more peplum tops)

Gown (clipped to polyvore.com)

Rebecca Taylor top (see more satin tops)

Legging (clipped to polyvore.com)

Rebecca Taylor dress (see more tee dresses)

Rebecca Taylor blouse (see more chiffon blouses)

Rebecca Taylor dress (see more shift dresses)

Rebecca Taylor jacket (see more rebecca taylors)

Rebecca Taylor t shirt (see more rebecca taylors)

Wide Leg Pants | Rebecca Taylor (clipped to polyvore.com)

I find each and every one of these pieces to be incredibly wearable, yet remarkably on trend.  That is one seriously fine line to be walking.  Any of these pieces could be paired with a trusty basic, say, jeans or a black tee.  I love how she touches on several trends happening currently: the snakeskin print on the pants and the tunic, the suggested lace on the white/grey blouse, the peplum silhouettes, the moto-inspired tough look, leather, and assorted hemlines.  It's a serious gold mine of fashion.  Who's with me?!?