Pulled my "Top Picks", its Showtime!

Yay!  The Current Event at Neiman Marcus starts today, and so do my top picks at the Paramus NM!  I can't wait to post pics, but until then you will have to stop by the 2nd floor to check them out.  I tried to touch on most of the trends, but wanted my picks to be pieces that you are really going to wear and be able to mix and match.  There is fur, some '70's glamour, a bit of sparkle, bold color... let's just say that I wish all of my picks could have a home in my closet!

As I cruised around the contemporary department with my rolling rack, the I could not stop "ooohing" and "ahhhing" over everything.  The hardest part was editing down my picks to a complete look for one mannequin and then 5 must have pieces.  Well, I couldn't quite edit my must haves down to the 5 pieces, but I came close... In the end, it all comes down to your lifestyle, as it always does.  Whether you stay at home or are in the office everyday, there are definitely pieces to fit your needs.

This is a pic of the fab Pedro Garcia peep-toe shooties I picked to complete my look.  I am completely obsessed!  They are a perfect transitional shoe, plus you can add tights when the weather gets cooler.

Stay tuned for a full report...

And, coming very soon, my write up on my day with Rachel Zoe and Ken Downing!  I am making some finishing touches and will be posted on Bergen Health & Life's website very soon!  Plus, I have lots of pics to post as well!

                                      - Allison

Come see me this weekend... literally!

And, I am not joking!  For those of you in the NY/NJ/CT area, I am going to be at the Paramus Neiman Marcus from 10-1pm on Friday and Saturday to answer all of your questions on updating your look for fall.  This is in conjunction with Neiman's Current Event that will be taking place this Thursday (the 22nd) through Saturday (the 24th)!

During NM's current event, you will receive an exclusive Rachel Zoe clutch with your $350 regular-priced Contemporary Sportswear or Dress Collections purchase.  Spend $500 in these departments and you will receive the Rachel Zoe clutch PLUS $50 off your purchase!  In other words, it's time for some fall shopping 

What do I have to do with this?  I am going to be one of four "Guest Stylists" featured during the event!  I will have my own circular rug in the Contemporary Department (the 2nd floor of NM) where I will be presenting my top picks for Fall!

I am so excited to be part of this event!  Neiman's is stuffed to the gills with fabulous fall clothing.  On a quick walk-through the other day, I spied some great pieces and can't wait to pull my picks!

A few pieces that grabbed my eye the other day...

Fab Faux Fur

Sparkle!

Bold Color/Bow Blouses

Ladylike Day Dresses

Make sure to set aside some time in the next few days to head over to the Neiman Marcus at the Garden State Mall.  I will see you there!

                                           - Allison

A Spot-On Ensemble for September and Beyond...

Since the fall season officially begins this week, I thought I would give my two cents on any easy update for this transitional time.  Let's just call it simple chic.  The West meets the Uptown Lady.  In other words, a very Ralph Lauren look.  Have I peaked your interest yet?!

Let's start with the chambray shirt that was on everyone's must have list this past spring.  If you don't have one yet, it is time to make the purchase.  This is definitely an item that you can wear all year.  Just add it to your basics list and make sure that you buy one that fits fairly snug.  You don't want to look like you just stole your boyfriend's shirt right out of his closet.

I really love J. Crew's Keeper Chambray Shirt...

or Madewell's Ex-Boyfriend Chambray Shirt

Once you have the right shirt, pair it with one of this fall's must-have midi skirts or the always classic pencil skirt.  The result will be a fresh take on the ladylike trend as well as a work-ready ensemble.

I am totally in love with MARC by Marc Jacobs Jackie Skirt

Loving the back of the skirt as much as the front!

Or, maybe you would prefer this season's hot hue in a classic shape... and, red is a very versatile color.  You will wear it much more than you think, I promise.

Anthropologie's Firelight Skirt is perfect!

If you like the red, but the pencil skirt isn't your style, you must try J.Crew's Floating Rose Flair Skirt.  The A-line silhouette is flattering for all, the floral print is fresh, and the knee length is modern but more flattering than the midi length.

And for the more adventurous, there is always leather...  Zero + Maria Cornejo Spiral Skirt.

When it comes to the shoes, have fun.  Don't play it too safe or you may look a bit like a school marm.  Try booties, platforms even wedge ankle boots... animal and python prints would be fab as well.  For example there is...

Tory Burch's Dorese High Heel Bootie... it has a very classic and versatile shape.

Tory Burch does it again with the Jude Snake Print Pump... ladylike, modern and chic.

The shoe designer of the moment, Brian Atwood, has created some fab leopard print booties for his new line, B Brian Atwood.  A must-have are these Back Zip Booties!

I can't resist these Ellie Saab Charlize Wedge Booties... they are perfect for skirts, dresses or jeans.  Does anyone have a spare $400?!

The good news on the shoe front is that there are many less expensive options available.  The shoes that I posted here are more to inspire you.  Who doesn't love to drool over a great pair of shoes!

                 

                                               - Allison

*Photos courtesy of jcrew.com, madewell.com, neimanmarcus.com, anthropologie.com, shopbop.com and toryburch.com.