New York Street Beat: Go, Sweet Racer, Go

I am always on the prowl for style-forward fashionistas, but when one does a back flip into fabulous I go ga-ga. Case in point, the racer back tanks seen here. A stylish take on a summertime staple, these pretties will have you looking good both coming and going. The first one’s look is so fresh – I love the juxtaposition of the crisp white tee, perfectly balanced with the off-white embroidery around the neck, a slight nod to retro yet thoroughly modern. The second look is on the one hand bohemian and on the other downtown, romantic and edgy – she’s keeping cool in all senses of the word. Steal their effortless style with these finds, sure to make folks do a double-take.

Free People Yuca Flower Crinkle Dress Nordstrom	All About Me Crochet Racerback Tunic Tillys	Crochet Racerback Bra Top Victoria’s Secret

New York Street Beat: True Colors

You know it’s officially summer when city residents shed their murky colored wardrobes in favor of more vibrant options. Estelle, seen here in SoHo, won us over with her electro-Kool-Aid inspired ensemble – the vintage jacket from Disney World (believe it or not) perfectly accents those bright bangles and Carmen Ho flats. Her brilliant mix of old (she’s had those adorable shorts since the age of 14) and new (tank from Victoria’s Secret Sport) injected a bit of tropical chic into the urban landscape.

Photo courtesy of wunderbloc.com

Optical Print Jacket J. Crew

Layering Tank Victoria’s Secret

Francesca Button Flat Delia’s

New York Street Beat: Trail Blazer

When Stefano Pilati sent sleekly tailored blazers down the runway for Yves Saint Laurent’s Spring 2008 collection, we could hear the sighs of relief coming from frill and floral overdosed fashionistas everywhere. Understated and with a tiny nod to prep school-chic, the collection was flattering, wearable, and guaranteed to be a classic.

We’ve noticed quite a few women adapting the trend but when we spotted freelance photographer Carin’s take, we were smitten. Notice the hip-grazing length, a refreshing change of pace from the popular cropped choices of seasons past.

Brilliant too are her combinations of “high” a tuxedo style jacket, with the “low” cut-off shorts, the pop of color with those adorable Etro-inspired sandals, and the delicate pendant necklaces for barely-there shimmer.

If the denim isn’t working for you, substitute cuffed khaki shorts and you’re ready for the catwalk.

Built by Wendy Long Sportjacket Refinery29

Richard Chai Classic Seamed Jacket Shop Jake

Twenty8Twelve Antonia Fitted Blazer Shopbop

Photo courtesy of Refinery29


So of course, after posting this I stumbled upon this great li'l blazer from eBay seller LeRobo. You may remember her from this post. Nope she's not paying me a commission...but I would settle for a store discount - are you listening girl, wink wink?



The opening bid is only $14.99 and there are no takers as of yet. Check out her auction here.

New York Street Beat: One Trend Two Ways

Style is not about blindly following trends, it’s about finding what works for you. We love the look of a chunky artisan necklace but admit it can be easily goofed if you’re not too careful. Fortunately, we found two prime examples of great personal style over trendy fashion.

We caught socialite designer Tory Burch (right) walking the red carpet in Midtown recently, and were struck by her bold enamel necklace and just-right Bergdorf Blonde highlights. Her eye-catching bauble played nicely off her classic LBD – pure Uptown elegance.

Somewhere below 14th Street, Kristen’s (Left) take on the trend mirrors her aesthetic perfectly. She describes her style as “often messy and undone,” and is inspired by European classics with a vintage twist. We love her feminine waves and soft, natural makeup (MAC). Her statement necklace lends an urban edge to an otherwise romantic look. The vibe is thoroughly fresh, modern, and Downtown.

Notice too that both women keep other details simple – natural makeup, a neutral color palette, and the lack of competing accessories keeps this look balanced.

Bubble Necklace J. Crew

Barton Bib Necklace Tory Burch

Nicole Miller Gold Bib Necklace Edressme.com