J. Crew does shoes, Italian style!

J Crew is a brand that I have always loved, not only do I have a not so secret girl crush on Jenna Lyons, but they continue to create a classic Americana style that can never get old. Currently on J Crew's site there is a featured named "J Crew goes to Italy" where you can see the artful creation of J Crew's latest collection of shoes. Watch the video that follows Jenna and her team through a small factory of cobblers who give you an intimate look into the creation of your beloved pumps. Here are some of the shoes featured, the beauty in the details of hand-made is something that should never go out of style.

Braidee Sandal, $138

Collins Platform Peeptoe, $255

Oh just show up already!

After the New Years two things happen in the fashion world, everything you were drooling over for the holidays goes on sale and everyone offers sneak peeks for Spring. There is both positive and negative effects of this trend, and lets start with the positive. (A new years resolution is to see things as good, rather than bad)

Positive: By knowing what will be big in Spring, you are prepared to look through super reduced merchandise and get some deals on Spring must-haves.

Negative: You are still stuck under a sweater and parka while sitting on your fashion gold mine.

Here are some images that have me already building the perfect Spring collection...

Baby It's Cold Outside

Since Old Man Winter has decided to slap us across the face here I thought I would feature some cold weather accessories that are becoming more like necessities. 

Ventura Printed Scarf - Free People

Patterned Shape Poncho - Need Supply

Wool Felt Hat - Need Supply

Boucle Gloves - Need Supply

Wool and the Gang Snood Dogg Scarf Kit* - Madewell

 Sheepskin Fingerless Gloves - ASOS PREMIUM

Angora Mix Headband - ASOS PREMIUM

Fantasy Ear Muffs - ASOS

Leather Sheepskin Lined Headband - Topshop

Lurex Threaded Fleck Slub Snood - Topshop

*I love the popularity of DIY projects lately, and super thrilled that Wool and the Gang seems to be popping up everywhere. Once I dig my knitting needles out of the closet I will have to take the rust off my knitting skills and attempt a pattern since there is no signs of a warm up in the near future!

Rings!

I am in love with beautiful rings, lately I have been on the hunt for the perfect ring. Being a hippie at heart I love rings that use brilliant stones, and make a statement without being too overbearing for everyday. Below is the selection that I have been salivating over for the past week!

This citrine and agate ring is from Barney's Co-Op. It's positively lovely.

These next two are my favorites and are part of a collaboration between Urban Outfitters and Dara Ettinger, a LA based jewelry designer. I think the gold stone is my favorite!

Finally from Free People a GORGEOUS ring with a dazzling green stone. This would be perfect with a breezy t-shirt, a pair of comfy boyfriend jeans and a pair of Keds at brunch. I can taste the bellinis now!

SWELTERING!

With the temperatures reaching the upper 90's it is hard to believe that summer clothes are about to be a thing of the past. About every major retailer is SERIOUSLY marking down their summer goods to make way for their pre-fall merchandise. Even though everything is new and cute, this is a great time to pick up some beautiful merchandise for a steal.

Remember, all this cool Fall apparel will most likely be marked down when you are actually able to leave your house and not wonder if you are a raisin yet.

Topshop just got a digital makeover!

As Refinery29 posted earlier today, the UK's super fantastic store Topshop changed the look of their website. Much simpler, clean and easy to navigate, it looks so grown up! Also they feature a sneak peek at their Autumn/Winter 2010 looks....take a peek. Remember students you do get a student discount ;)

topshop

Can't sleep? SHOP!

So I can't sleep, even though I have a long and early (BLAH) day ahead of me, so I troll the internet for cute items I may eventually scrap up enough cash to purchase.

First off I am loving Love 21 from Forever 21. Love 21 Contemporary is the brands solution to keeping their maturing clientele. Kudos! Here are some favorites....