So, I’m not quite sure how I let this happen, but TheFashionMagpie turned three about a month ago (end of March) and the occasion passed by unremarked. That’s no way to treat one of the loves of my life! This little fashion blogeroo has taught me a lot about…a lot. And a lot that is not fashion-related, surprisingly. First, I’ve come to value the importance of “a room of one’s own,” in the abstract. Virginia Woolf was onto something — having a creative space to hone your voice and opinions is truly life-giving and self-affirming. Second, the power of self-conviction. This blog has taught me to trust myself and my instincts more than any other enterprise I’ve undertaken. Third, the absolute joy of aesthetically beautiful things. Yes, fashion can be frivolous, and folks can take it far too seriously, but at the end of the day — why wouldn’t you surround yourself with beauty?! It seems simple enough. And finally, the warmth and goodness of others. So many of you have written me the loveliest notes and kindest words — I’m humbled by it. Bisoux to you all!
In the honor of TFM’s big 3-year bloggiversary, I’m concocting my dream outfit. First: this stunning Giambattista Valli sheath (don’t even ask the price…) with an obligatory party hat and some sparkly danglers (Alexis Bittar, $275, Nordstrom) —
— and some flashy heels (Jimmy Choo, $950, Net-A-Porter) and this fun clutch — love how its geometry plays off of the lines of the dress above (Kotur, $650, Neiman Marcus):
I’d further accessorize with this sparkly camera strap (LOVE. — $120, Bloom Theory):
1. The Purchase of “Alix”
My loyal readers know how much I died over the hectagonal, toffee-colored gorgeousness of the Alexander Wang Emile tote ($975, Kirna Zabete). When I finally bought one, I affectionately named mine “Alix.” (A very French name — pronounced “Ah-lee-kssss.) This indulgence has brought me many a happy morning.
2. Suzanna Dai Statement Earrings
I snapped up these beautiful “Rio de Janeiro” earrings ($138, Suzanna Dai) earlier this season, and they’ve quickly become my favorite member of the Magpie Jewelry Family. They always draw a lot of attention, and they snazz up any old thing. I’ve worn them with everything from floor-length evening gowns to jeans and a tee. Love you.
3. Corals and Peaches and Tangerines — OH MY.
I’ve been beyond ecstatic over the predominance of reds, peaches, corals, and tangerines that have graced many-a-storefront in the form of lovely and wearable separates over the past year. Talk about a universally flattering color palette! WOO! Commemorate with the paint chip table runner ($55, Leif Shop — also available in placemat form) below:
4. Vibrant Work Out Gear
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: brightly colored gym gear is a huge exercise motivator. Thank you, Nike, for giving me a little extra boost with your punchy running shoes ($90, Zappos).
5. Colored Denim
Yeehaw, I have been all.over.this.trend. I’ve scored J. Brand jeans in tomato red, neon coral, cobalt, and now have my eye on a pastel pair.
6. Peplum.
A new love, but a love nonetheless. I’m so intrigued by this style that I’m inclined to go overboard…(Top, $49, H&M — similar here; skirt, Jason Wu, $2,165, Kirna Zabete):
7. The Easy Reader
I would be lying if I didn’t profess what a small joy my Timex Easy Reader ($70, PiperLime) is on a daily basis. I hadn’t worn a watch since I was maybe seven or eight years old — and then I found this cheapie Timex (Rachel Zoe and Olivia P. are also fans) and fell in love.
That is — until this upgrade replaces it.
8. Neon, Neon.
I mean, it wouldn’t be 2011-2012 if I didn’t pay homage to this mega-trend. I’ve invested in this trend quite a bit, favoring this citrine yellow hue or hot pink over all. Love this Kate Spade tote ($328, Kate Spade) — but I snagged the iconic Cambridge Satchel ($155) in the same hue, and am happy with where I am with it.
9. Diptyque
If the last year had a scent, it would be Diptyque’s Baies ($60 for candle). I went bananas over this brand the past year, buying room fragrance, candles, body oil, and much more.
10. Loubs.
I’m still head over red-soled heels for all things Louboutin, but especially for the incredible neons he rolled out this season. I don’t own a pair, but I daydream about them every second.
In closing, THANK YOU for a fabulous year. I’d like to give back by offering one lucky reader a SPECIAL MAGPIE SURPRISE! Just leave a note on this blog post telling me what your favorite post this year has been, and I will randomly select and announce a winner next Thursday, 5/17! You get two entries if you follow me on Pinterest. XOXOXOXO!