One for me, one for you

I haven't purchased a pair of the classic TOMS for myself, but
these Neiman Marcus exclusive ballet flats have me thinking
I need to buy a pair for the sake of a child in need:

And for only $30, these are definitely on the list for the Bean:

Four more shopping days til Christmas and I'm still finishing up gifts (for others, of course).

Building a closet

Every season, people ask me what they need to buy. But sometimes, 'what to buy' is not as important as working with what you already own. Having the basics in your closet make it easy to layer the season's trend or add an accessory to change up the look. Here are a few of my essentials for any wardrobe:

Click to view or buy: 
Trench 388 || Blazer 73.50 || Striped tee 39.50 || Black dress 168 || Skinny jeans 98 || Flats 195

PS - Your votes would be much appreciated!

By Best Mom Fashion Blog

Valentino studded pump

Remember these gorgeous Valentino Studded Pumps (they also come in black with nude strap)?  Well guess what I found at Nordstrom on sale for $50?!?

No, they're not really like the Valentino's, but they're actually more practical for every day wear-to-work.  The heel is a manageable to run around all day and there's no over-dramatic ankle strap.

Which do you prefer?   

(Ok, if I didn't feel guilty for spending $900 on shoes, I'd buy the Valentino's.  Well, I'd buy them on sale.  Pre-baby, pre-stock-market-crash days.  The one in 2008.  Not the one going on now.  wonk wonk.)
 

Crazy for camel

One of the hottest colors of the season isn't a color at all.  Camel is everywhere: in sweaters, sequins, pants, dresses and accessories.  To keep the tonal look from looking too drab, mix textures and add some sparkle.  Wear a sequin tank with menswear-inspired hounds-tooth shorts.  Or, if you feel like it's a little too much of a good thing, mix something camel with a charcoal or red piece. 

1. Sequin tank, Express $29.90

2. Camel faux suede top, XXI $27.80

3. Oversized top, XXI $27.80

4. Leather bracelet w/ chain, Lori's Shoes $36

5. Leather stud wrap bracelet, Lori's Shoes $19

6. Cuffed houndstooth shorts, XXI $19.80

7. Stretch corduroy, Victoria's Secret $39.50

8. Faux suede leggings, Arden B $28 

9. Clog, delia's $79.50

10. Suede platform wedge, Jeffrey Campbell $125

easy end-of-summer style

Even though the retailers say it's fall, the weather seems to tell us something entirely different. So while I wait to wear my chunky knits and over-the-knee boots, here are a few pieces to wear for the rest of summer...

This J. Crew top is drapey, soft and comfortable and can be worn right now and through fall under a jacket or cardigan. Gray satin cargo pants are a little dressier than their cotton sister and also much lighter to wear in the scorching summer heat. Finish off the look with a chain cuff and cognac sandals and you're ready to take on the hot August day!

Click on any of the styles to purchase or view on the retailer's site.