The Perfect Fall Skirt

A lot of women complain about having to wear maternity clothes and do all they can do avoid them while pregnant. As someone who believes in dressing correctly for your current body type, I believe in maternity wear. But once in a while I see something I love so much I get upset I have to sit out the season. This Calvin Klein skirt is THE PIECE I really want, but can't have, this fall.

Why is it the perfect skirt for Fall 2013? It covers multiple trends including Graphic Black and White, Punk, Leather and Chic Minimalism. It is also vegan, affordable, and goes from day to evening. I hope you like it as much as I do.

Calvin Klein Faux-Leather Pleated A-Line Skirt, $109.50

TO WORK

Top with a graphic black and white blazer to tone down the "leather-ness" of the skirt for work. Add a flattering white shirt, then choose your accessories. Will you add a feminine touch with a bow bag and matching tonal pump? Or will you keep it chic with a black and white tote and a pop of fuchsia in the shoe? Whatever you do, have fun!

River Island Black and White Scratch Print Blazer, $70

H&M Fitted Shirt, $9.95




Topshop Masquerade Mid Pump, $60

ZAC Zac Posen Shirley Bow Croco Shopper, $150

Enzo Angiolini Graysn Pump, $109.95

ALDO Michurin Handbag, $60


OUT ON THE TOWN

Looking to rock your skirt for evening? Add a teddy coat (Big Trend Alert!), a pop of universally flattering color with an affordable tee, a chic box clutch, and a shoe that makes your legs go on for miles. 

Topshop Teddy Fur Pea Coat, $158

Kate Spade Saturday Slip Neck Tee, $30

Vince Camuto Mira Clutch, $158

Sam Edelman Desiree Pump, $129.95

Would You Buy Clothes From A Store Called Nasty Gal?

Should a grown woman be buying clothes from a site called Nasty Gal? When the fashion editor of a major magazine admitted to me that it is her favorite shopping destination, I knew it was time to pay attention.

In 2012, everyone was talking about the sexy fashion website, Nasty Gal. It's no wonder. The site was named the #1 fastest growing retail company on the 2012 Inc. 5000 list, with over $100 million in yearly sales after just six years in business!

So what is the appeal of the Nasty Gal site for grown women? This online retailer features clothes, shoes, and accessories from affordable brands as well as daring designers such as Jeffrey Campbell, not to mention lust-worthy vintage finds. While it is quite easy to find a fresh, spring dress, a pair of high heels, or a motorcycle jacket to fall in love with, beware of clothing with provocative cut-outs and extremely short lengths. The clothes also come in very small sizes for smaller girls and most of the merchandise is under $150. Last year they released their own clothing line produced locally in Los Angeles. And in case you were wondering, the name was inspired by the song "Nasty Gal" by Betty Davis.

Let the fashion show begin!

Nasty Gal is a great place to look for spring dresses of all styles and colors.

Blinded Love Dress, $68

Jagged Edges Dress, $48

Elle Peplum Dress, $58

Pumps, booties, and platforms galore! Heels for every occasion can be found on the website.

Studded Platform Bootie, $78

Hough Pump, $120

Motorcycle jackets and trench coats are great for the transitioning weather. Pair with a flowy dress in bright colors for a perfect spring outfit!

Whiteout Moto Jacket, $88

Camilla Tweed Jacket, $78

Hard Days Night Trench, $68

While most of Nasty Gal consists of affordable, modern fashions, don't forget to check the vintage section for one-of-a-kind designer finds.

Christian Dior monogram silk scarf, $138

Yohji Yamamoto Knit Trench, $428

Looking for sparkle and sequins? This website has it all, including this mint green sweater with sequined elbow patches.

Sequin Patch Knit, $65

Cruelty-Free Fashion Is Fabulous

This post is for Erin B. and Alissa B! It's almost 2013, and who isn't thinking about how to be kinder to the environment? Even the fashion industry has become more eco-conscious. One of the biggest ways that designers have instituted better practices is in making cruelty-free pieces. These pieces are great for everyone, not just practicing vegans! They're often more affordable as well. Faux fur isn't new, but it used to be like the inexpensive stepchild of fur--now, it looks so good that it's a trend on its own! So if you want clothes or accessories with the look of fur, leather, or snakeskin, but couldn't imagine actually buying real ones, cruelty-free fashion has become a chic, simple alternative. Here are some cruelty-free essentials:

ASOS works a lot with faux leather, and the results are winners. This small satchel is perfect for traveling light when walking around the city all day. Love the scalloping detail!

ASOS Scallop Detail Satchel Bag $49

This larger satchel is good for when you need a bit more bag... Cornelia Guest, once known as a socialite, has gotten a lot of press recently for her cruelty-free designs. Her bags are now carried at stores like Bloomingdales and Intermix.

Cornelia Guest Nicholas Weave Large $290

Olsen Haus makes cruelty-free, vegan shoes and accessories that would be right at home on the floor at Barneys. These heels fit the colorblocking trend we've been seeing all season. 

Olsen Haus Spirit $225

Make an entire outfit with faux fur and show the snow who's boss!

Kate Spade Carriage House Earmuffs $61

Pieces Faux Fur Bits Mittens $22

See by Chloe Faux Fur Leather Boots $351

Topshop Faux Fur Collar $50

Kate Spade is another designer who has shown her passion for cruelty-free fashion. As a sucker for real vintage coats, I love this faux vintage, faux fur-trimmed option!

Kate Spade Toni Coat $798

You can start your children shopping for cruelty-free fashion while they're still young! Ralph Lauren went fur-free in 2006, and he's been designing adorable pieces with faux fur ever since. 

Ralph Lauren Girl's Aran Faux Fur Cardigan $67

Sometimes, you just need to add a little edge to your wardrobe. Gunas makes edgy bags that are totally luxurious, and totally cruelty-free. 

Gunas Rockstar $299

Stella McCartney took a staunch stand at the beginning of her career to never use fur or leather. These faux leather and suede wedge booties are on-trend, eco-friendly... and on sale!

Stella McCartney Faux Leather and Faux Suede Wedge Boots $305

So cozy! This coat is kind of amazing. Its oversized shape and faux fur make it very this season, plus it looks super comfortable and the grey will match everything!

ASOS Faux Fur Collar Oversized Coat $194

Matt & Nat, the name of this vegan brand that is sold at places like Urban Outfitters, comes from "Mat(t)erial and Nature." This satchel is a knockout--hip and stylish, practical and affordable. 

Matt & Nat Red Vegan Taxi $148

HAPPY SHOPPING!