Vogue's Ten Best Dressed Choice - 11/16

Last week, I didn't feel at all strongly about any of the looks coming from the best dressed nominees, so I declined to vote. However, this week - a complete reversal! The decision was actually difficult for me to make. Still, my vote goes to Ms. Biel for her polished but carefree Americana look. Her ombre tousled hair just below the shoulder-line adds a completely modern touch. Navy is my black; I enjoy seeing people wearing it as an alternative.


...I may also be partial because I own those Loubs. 

Photo: Trago/FilmMagic

Thinking about...

This sumptuous wool cardigan by Stella McCartney; Something to get me through the winter and cooler days throughout the spring. My camera is finally fixed, so come back later this evening for some Stella in my own closet ; )

What's In Mari's Shopping Basket - 11/12

Today's shopping bag is eclectic. Some blue tassel earrings by Oscar de la Renta, that add oomph to a neutral outfit or that extra dazzle to an over-the-top look. Two black sweaters: one for day (Bottega Veneta) and one for night (Malandrino) - love love love this sweater! I always stick my laptop in my bag as is, the titanium Mac seems to withstand a lot. But because of that, I always tend to purchase bags that must fit my laptop. In order to end this bad habit, I'm finally buying a laptop case, see Mulberry Bayswater patent-leather case below. While I was browsing through my favorite online shopping site, I gravitated toward this Alexander Wang Diego leather bucket bag in burgundy. This bag is totally not me, but there's something about it that seduced me. So I'm still deciding whether or not to get it. Knowing how fast these things (Wang) go... I give myself a 3-hour window before I lose it... 3 hours to decide - to bucket or not to bucket?

Veteran

On the Upper West Side with my mom for the day. Then finally getting my camera fixed! Love a girl who dresses like a "fashion Veteran"...

Ring Me

I love me some YSL, but I find the "Arty" rings fashion bloggers worldwide can't seem to stop salivating over to be, frankly, ugly. If you happen to be wearing the ring, my apologies. For an alternative, Dominic Jones's jewelry line has a lot of personality; something for every type of woman. I have just purchased the cage ring below (22-karat rose gold-plated). I like its simplicity. It is priced at $370 USD, which I think is quite fair. His beetles go for a bit more. I'm not into the whole animal movement, but a good majority of the fashion community seems to be in the midst of a bit of beetlemania , so I've included some shots of those rings as well. Lastly, there are also some bear trap stud earrings that create a heart effect.

Chloé On My Mind Part II

As I've stated before on my blog, I'm both a beloved fan and customer of Chloé. Two things I've already started saving up for: this three-quarter-sleeve top and leather bow-shaped handbag in black (Hannah MacGibbons offers it in white as well) . The top is a corporate girl's dream, because throughout the day you can wear it with a jacket/cardigan/blazer, and then after work for drinks or a dinner meeting, take off the outerwear and instantly turn on the sexy by revealing the open back. Mulling over these runway images again, makes me feel like a kid in a candy store. 

Photo: GoRunway.com

Photo: GoRunway.com

Adopting Off-Duty

Here, Julia Saner's off-duty look, in fact, mirrors my own uniform of late to a T: skin-tight black pants, a neutral coat with a long knit peeking out under the sleeve, and a big satchel. It's a very classic yet sporty look, that allows you to pop in anywhere at any time of day. To me, that's a fashion success.

Night Fever

These photos entice me into buying some more Halston Heritage. There is this ridiculous Halston long sleeve, gold pleated top with a sash around it that I saw in my hometown designer boutique the other day... and I need to have it. Another beautiful night in NYC is upon us and I'm getting dressed with these Studio 54esque images in mind. Some Harry Connick Jr action has been going down in our apartment: we've got Love Is Here To Stay on repeat, among other favorites. There are also a few Perfect Manhattan's collecting condensation on the coffee table...


Now that I've cleaned up after that, I'm also in the middle of cleaning up my blog a bit, and that's not just design exclusive; if you have any thoughts about what you would like to see more of, less of, or perhaps, what's missing, please send me a comment. And thanks to all of those who have been reading and who have stayed patiently with me these first few months. Cheers to you!


Tschüss!
Mari

All photos via Net-a-porter

What's In Mari's Shopping Basket

All of following help build a classic wardrobe (except the playful Markus Lupfer bodice sweater - that's just to give passersby an everyday fashion wink). When you find something basic and timeless (even semi-timeless), grab it! Because you never know if you'll find something like it again. When I buy a basic dress or bag, I know it will someday save me from a "I have nothing to wear" fashion moment, and that return is worth every penny.

Marc by Marc Jacbos PVC tote with an ostrich effect

Herve Leger full-skirted bandage dress

Jimmy Choo canvas and snake skin pumps

Notte by Marchesa silk-crepe dress

Markus Lupfer striped merino-wool sweater