Fall Must List - Caroline Rogers, Looks Good To Me

"Hi, Caroline here from Looks Good To Me and I am so excited to be sharing one of my favorite things for Fall with you today here on Michelle's blog!
Being a total shoe-girl, I have been eyeing all of the great shoe trends coming up for Fall and my top pick is the lace up bootie.

I love that you can wear this trend however it best suits your style. From flat to chunky to sky high or flirty, it's totally up to you.
My pick are these girly kicks from Loeffler Randall, I love the peek-a-boo mesh detailing and the perfectly pointed toe.
Although they would be a big splurge, they would be sheer perfection paired with a LBD or a pair of pleated paper-bag trousers and a smart blazer.
And, you can't put a price on perfection, now can you?"
Caroline Rogers, Looks Good To Me

Off The Grid - Estelle, Under A Pink Moon

Images via sunset.com

For as long as I can remember, I've been an enthusiastic daydreamer. And since my first years working in a cubicle I've longed for a drastic escape. "Off the grid" has been my go-to fantasy for a while and more often than not, my mind wanders to the mountains. A place where I would never hang a white board or wear identification on a retractable cord.
I think I could happily live in a small and spare cottage, surrounded by nature, as long as there was a luxurious spot with a view to sit with my coffee in the mornings and sip wine in the evenings. And today I would happily settle for a long weekend in either one of these cabins. - Estelle, Under A Pink Moon

Fall Must List - Caroline Duke, Greedy Girl

my fall must-have: "you've got mail"

fall never fails to make me yearn for one single thing. it's not boots. or sweaters. or scarves or mittens. it's meg ryan and tom hanks in "you've got mail" -- my no. 1 cinematic guilty pleasure. why? aside from the obvious:

1. autumn in new york: school supplies, kids' books, street fairs, joe fox's grandpa. love it all.
2. nineties nostalgia: hearing that aol dial-up sound: whoosh whoosh beep beep whoosh. and the opening scene with the cranberries? it takes you way back, doesn't it? and, of course, you've got mail. whose ears didn't perk at the sound of that? (can you imagine that now though? i'd saw my ears off, given the number of e-mails i get.)
3. people i love: parker posey, greg kinnear, steve zahn and dave chappelle. see? you can't go wrong.
4. timeless looks: that kathleen kelly can really rock the black tights and chunky turtlenecks. and not to mention the cardigans...

so, there you have it. my fall favorite in a nutshell.
Caroline Duke - Greedy Girl

p.s. while looking for an image, i came across a ton of photos from various "you've got mail" walking tours in new york. is there anything i've ever wanted to do more?

Off The Grid & Fall Must List - Bianca, Bink & Boo

"I might have married a Texan, but I surely didn't marry a cowboy.  No sir, I landed myself a city slicker from the lone star state.  If we could go "off the grid"  I would like us to pick up right where Bud and Sissy left off (Urban Cowboy).  We would both be staples on the rodeo circuit, drink ice cold bud light {but I would have a secret stash of New Age}, and live it up at Gilly's.  It's a complete 360  from my life right now, but that's what makes it so fun. "
Image from Beiron Andersson Photography

Pining Away:

The Prada Large Cervo Satchel. I dream about this bag.

Bianca - Bink & Boo

Off The Grid - Elissa Braun, Ebb & Flow

OffThe Grid
In this age of laptops, cell phones and Internet, it can be especially difficult to unwind and unplug. It's hard to imagine a simpler time, where stories were passed by word of mouth through generations and food was all prepared by hand. Fortunately, there are still parts of the world that allow us to escape from the modern day stress. I got a glimpse into a simpler life a couple years ago when I had the opportunity to visit Assisi, Italy. The stop was brief, lasting only a day, but the memories and spirit of that town have stuck with me in a big way. The ultimate 'off the grid' fantasy, for me, would be moving to Assisi and living among the artisans. I would spend my mornings walking up the hillside to my shop and preparing olive oil. And my afternoons would be filled with great company, indescribable good and even better sunsets. Oh, what a life it would be.
Image Source: Elissa Braun

Fall Must Have

When I think about Fall, the first things that come to my mind always seem to be fashion related, beautiful boots, fitted coats, layered tee's and the occasional scarf. While I, like most everyone, love these pieces for Fall there is one accessory that I have found to go with any outfit. You can fancy this piece up with an Autumn dress and tights or dress it down with jeans and a hooded sweatshirt. Any idea what I'm talking about? I'm talking about the perfect throw. Did I throw you off with all that fashion talk? (Pun 100% intended) Something about a cozy blanket just screams Fall to me, so I have deemed it my 'must-have item.' Now I just need some hot cider and the new season of Modern Family and I'll be ready.

Image Sources (clockwise from top left): west elm, Ralph Lauren, Flickr, Pottery Barn

Elissa Braun - Ebb & Flow

Fall Must List - Haydee, Happenstance

Capes, Toms and Lattes

"I keep dreaming about this Lauren Moffatt cape for fall. Not only are capes fun to wear, but they give you a sense of being wrapped up in a cozy blanket. With fall usually comes cooler weather (even for So. Cal.) which means not as much flip flop wearing. I usually default to my Chucks when I need to wear shoes during the day but I think I need to add these Toms to the ol' shoe roster. Never fails, every October I get excited when Starbucks starts selling their Pumpkin Spice lattes. This is quickly followed by the famous red cups they start serving their drinks in come November. This truly kicks off fall for me." Haydee - Happenstance

Off The Grid - Katie Armour, The Neo-Traditionalist

Hi there everyone!  Katie here from The Neo-Traditionalist.  My "off the grid" fantasy has always been a cottage in the English countryside.  Blame it on Pride and Prejudice, but I've always dreamt of having a quaint little spot of land on the other side of the pond brimming with an unruly garden.  I'd be cut off from my computer and forced to lounge about reading good old-fashioned books, play board games and explore the great outdoors.  Dinner would be served al fresco on the back patio (bundle up!) and consist of lots of wine and laughter.  I'd have time for handwritten letters and perhaps even learn to cook a thing or two!  The inspiration comes from my dream home, Scott's Float, in East Sussex.

Someday I'm going to buy it and John (the husband), Alfred (the pug) and I are going to live happily ever after...  A girl can dream! - Katie, The Neo-Traditionalist

Off the Grid - Melissa , Reverie-Daydream

Hello all you lovelies, it’s Simply Mel from Reverie! I’m sure each of you fantasizes of “checking out” from the daily grind of reality. Don’t get me wrong, my life is pretty great and there isn’t much I would change, but I do have an ongoing “off the grid” daydream that I truly hope to one day make happen ~ to just live as a bohemian on a beautiful small piece of land where I can cultivate an organic garden all year round, grow herbs for all sorts of remedies and essential oils, read by candlelight, listen to Spanish guitar music being played by the nightly outdoor fire pit, and go barefoot every. single. day. of the year.

I’m going to keep chasing this dream….and I’ll let you know when I catch it!
Melissa - Reverie-Daydream

Off The Grid & Fall Must List - Miya, You + Me*

 I fantasize of being able to take my surfboard down the coast and surf the forgotten spots early in the morning.  I haven't surfed since I left California 8 years ago, but every time I go back, I can almost hear the ocean calling my name.  There is nothing like a quiet dawn surf to quiet the mind and humble the spirit.  
(this image was taken from this slideshow)

Fall Must Have: A pair of oxfords, hands-down. I plan on wearing them to make my summer dresses seem more fall-y, to make my jeans/t-shirt uniform feel more put-together, and to wear something besides running shoes, sandals, or ballet flats for once. Here's a round-up of some of the ones I'm coveting. Clockwise from top left: Camden leather brogues, J.Crew; Bass Brodie (at Amazon); Lewis Oxford at Free People; Henry cuir Fringe Oxfords, Barneys; Golden or Silver Oxford Flats by Golden Peonies (I almost bought a pair just like these in Paris, until my husband laughed at me. I'll never forgive myself for listening to his fashion taste);Champ Oxfords by Keds (at Piperlime)

Miya Hirabayashi- You + Me*
 

ps - don't forget to enter their excellent giveaway that ends Friday!!

Off The Grid & Fall Must List - Jessica, Destined to Design

All I've been dreaming about this summer is taking a weekend, packing a backpack, and exploring the mountains. Swimming in hidden lakes, watching waterfalls, climbing rocks and just experiencing the serenity of the wilderness. Oh, and a couple s'mores wouldn't hurt...[link]

These Rachel Comey boots have been on my wish list for quite awhile now, and not only would I wear them in Fall, I'd probably sport them year round. Love the contrast of the black leather and wood heel. So simple, yet so chic. [link]Jessica - Destined to Design

Fall Must List - Ashley, Hither & Thither

Fall Must Have: Escape
Have you seen the new Tommy Hilfiger ads? Where he re-imagines the brand as twisted preppy for a make-believe family of Hilfigers (the Tenenbaums meets Gossip Girl)? I'd happily add the corduroy and cable-knit combinations to my closet, but most of all I found myself drawn to the '80s-era cars, like this Wagoneer, piled to the brim with blankets and skis and coolers and baskets. I'd like to pile in with my love and that hound dog and drive up to our favorite fall getaway in the Catskills. Over-packing never looked so good - Ashley , Hither & Thither

Fall Must List - Kate Arends, Wit + Delight

"This fall I'm all about basics. Comfort is key, along with versatility. I'm really drawn to earthy colors, military-green being all-time favorite this season, followed by navy. Trends I'm looking to try: the tiniest bit of embellishment on basic pieces, leopard print jackets + shoes, structured pieces paired with monotone separates, messy up-dos and clean make up, anything camel, textured skirts, over the knee socks, and classic riding boots. - Kate at Wit + Delight "

images 1/2/3/4/5/6

1) APC Fall 2010, 2) IRO Cashmere Sweater, 3) YSL Earrings, 4) J Crew Eliis Incas Tote, 5) Loeffler Randall Mathilde Boot

  

Off The Grid...Sarah Hendler, ...sh...

 

"My off the grid escape is to Blackberry Farm in Walland, Tennessee.

It's my "off the grid in pure luxury" fantasy.  The farm is a Relais&Chateaux property which means it is a five star resort which also means it's not the most recession friendly farm around.  Why I dream of this place:  It's a working farm, they have the most incredible locally and seasonally sourced food, there is a spa, fireplaces, stargazing, you can hike in the Smoky Mountains and it's absolutely stunning.  I wrote a post on my blog about their cookbook at the beginning of the year.  I am still trying to figure out how to get myself (and the husband of course) on a trip out there to relax, learn and enjoy."

Sarah Hendler - ...sh...

While I'm Away...

photo - Slim Aarons via Charlotte Moss

Well, I won't be lounging in a hammock in Sardinia but unplugging for a week on a quiet lake sounds pretty darn amazing...In lieu of my usual scintillating posts (hah!) I've lined up some of my absolute favorite bloggers and asked them two questions:

1) What is your personal "off the grid" fantasy - where do you dream of tuning out and leading a simple life far away from modern technology??   I have two - one is moving to Hawaii and living in a little surf shack, eating pineapple & papaya for breakfast, bathing in secret waterfall pools and selling banana bread on the road to Hana or buying a little old movie theater (or drive in) in the Texas Hill Country and showing the classics alongside cold beers...

2) What is on your Fall Must List? Boots, an autumn feast, a walk in the leaves, fresh apple pie?

I'd love to hear your answers as well!

Stayed tuned for their thoughts, check out all their amazing blogs and have a happy, happy week - see you in September!!

Au Revoir, À Bientôt, À tout à l'heure!

Shameless Plug - Cabin Style

Next week we heading to a lake cabin with the fam and although the days promise to be warm enough to dip our toes in the water and soak up the sun dockside, I'm sure the nights will be crisp enough to remind us that Fall is right around the corner (or, since it is MN the possibility of snowfall in the next 30 days)...Luckily, Ace & Jig just landed at the shop so I'll be grabbing a couple of their super soft shirts and hoodies to keep me warm around their campfire...

For daytime I'll be living in my tee dress staple...perfect over cutoffs, swimsuits, etc it also makes an excellent nightshirt...and my Brigit Tank Dress is just nice enough to throw on for a jaunt into town

Beachside I can chill on my Nomadic Trading Co Sarong Towel - sarong on one side, terry on the flip, and toss on this aptly named Weekend Shirt when it's time to head in for lunch

Mornings on the porch call for wrapping up in a cozy Virginia Johnson Scarf - I love the new Raspberry Camels or if it's a bit sticky out I can throw my hair under a Lina Rennell Triangle Scarf

this Bosquez agate necklace will fit in perfectly with the surroundings...

and when I need to find an internet connection I can throw everything in my Fleabags tote and be on the road

Hope everyone has a lovely weekend! I've lined up some spectacular guest bloggers next week...be sure to check them out!

xoxo

Michelle

ps - You + Me* (one of my absolute faves!!) has an amazing giveaway - a free photo session with Brookelyn Photography!! - happening right now - check it out if you aren't already a daily reader

pps - does anyone else have a weird aversion to swimming in lakes?  I need to be able to see into what I'm swimming in - yuck!

ppps - still sale stuff left at the shop and you can take an extra 20% off when you enter LEO at checkout

Fierce & Fresh

two stripes, two different takes...both pretty perfect!

photos - Hanneli

ps - just squeezing this in at the midnight hour as I've been without internet all day!!??  LOVED taking a trip down memory lane with all your comments yesterday....y'all rock! xoxo

Mindset List

Have you heard of the mindset list? It's a list of the cultural touchstones that have shaped the lives of the students entering college in the Fall - It is totally fascinating and this year most of the college newbies were born in 1992...1992!! The thing on the list that caught my attention was this :

Nirvana is on the classic oldies station.

Seriously?  I graduated high school in 1993 so when these young whippersnappers were taking their first breath I was roaring through the school parking lot in my convertible blasting Nevermind, trying to appear terribly cool...when they were getting their diapers changed I was sneaking out my window in babydoll dresses, chokers & doc martens to hit a rave or Tripping Daisy show in Dallas...very Brenda Walsh meets Riot Grrrll

Boy, times have changed...although a look at current fashion means the 90's are back, no?  Long cardigans, lace up work boots, plaid shirts, minimalism...it's all coming around again...or maybe, much like Nirvana they've turned into classics...

what were you up to in 92? I'm feeling a showing of Singles and a Siamese Dream spin coming on...

photo via Sassy (remember Sassy?)

Jenny & Johnny...etc

Totally digging Jenny Lewis's new venture with boyfriend Johnathan Rice - Jenny & Johnny

Big Wave is the perfect end of summer tune...and the new album drops August 31st

Love her!

Speaking of adorable rocker chicks - how cute is this Lollapalooza girl?  I'm a fan of the loose around the leg shorts (bought these and have worn everyday!)  We're headed to ACL in October and knowing Austin weather it might still be warm enough to dress like this...

photo via style.com

House Crush Times Two

I'm a huge fan of Kim Krans and The Wild Unknown (no less than 3 prints grace my walls) so I was super excited to see the inside of her & her hubby's Catskills cabin on design*sponge...I love the rustic simplicity and crazy for the stained glass...it just looks like to perfect place to kick back and do a whole lot of nothing (kind of my favorite thing lately)

My other house crush of the day comes courtesy of JT (that's Joslyn Taylor - the super fabulous gal behind Simple Lovely, Raising Foodies, etc)...seriously, it's kind of unfair - she looks incredibly stylish while cooking, has this groovy house with little eclectic collections everywhere (how do you do this with 2 young girls?? she has vignettes and I have clutter! ) and really couldn't be nicer/cooler...le sigh!  more great pictures over at Style/Swoon