J. Crew January 2012...At Last, At Last!

I must admit that I am a little biased because my birthday is January.  The truth of  the matter is that January is slim pickens for just about everything.  The fashion magazines are as thin as envelopes and the retailers such as J. Crew are just getting ready to make the transitions to the next season in this case Spring.  I know that I am not ready for Spring at least from a wardrobe perspective, but I love to see anything new.  J. Crew's January 2012 catalog is posted online and I saw a pop of color, hurray!

So let's take a look.  I've listed a few items that catch my eye both new or last set of pieces.  I love the Biennial satchel in saddle. It is very classic, like a simple pump.  This is the kind of bag you can carry from season to season.  Paired with the Valentina pump, you have a beautiful look.

The Cece ballet flat is crafted in Italy.  I love all the "custom colors" (fresh mango is my color choice).  This ballet slipper seems to boast some extra comfort in the heal, a shock-absorbing sole and on the top of the toe.

I love the new Tillary handbag collection reminds me of classic Coach with the bucket and flap over bag.  I love the bucket in dark poppy which is a color that crosses over well.  I had a major poppy love so I am not sick of it yet!

Overall, the new items are lackluster.  The color combinations seem confused between Spring and Fall/Winter.  I do not like the floral print which comes in a skirt,  (printed a-line in Ashbury print), perfect shirt and Jules dress.  It is awful (in my opinion).  It is vintage or trying to be vintage.

I loved the Miansai Nantucket bracelets which have a retro-inspired look with fishhook cast and a "military grade woven cord".  My favorite was the red rope bracelet.  This is one that I would leave on all of the time or hook on to one of the Tillary handbags!

The last item that really caught my eye was the Double-breasted Ivy blazer with a borrowed from the boys look, but more tailored with features such as the gold-crested buttons that make this one special.

I am sure I will come across some other items, but these were the first I either adored or wouldn't touch!  I look forward to your reviews for January.  Do you have a fav or worst out of the new items?

Cheers.

Winter's Charm

Who can resist J. Crew's lollipop-colored cashmere, shoes and beautiful accessories.  It is a great Winter when you pair these beauties to any conservative outfit.  It brings out the cheer and shows a fun side to dressing.  I hope that some of these colors transition into the next season of clothing...Love!

Winter's Charm by crewcat featuring long sleeve shirts

Happy Holidays and A Sparkly New Year!

First of all, Happy Holidays to you all.  I have appreciated you following me and I am looking to a wonderful New Year and with a little sparkle.

There is nothing better than to add some cheer than with a little bling.  Having a special piece of sparkle be it a ring, a statement piece necklace or a fabulous bracelet is sure to make you smile and catch the attention of others.

One of my favorite jewelry designers is Ben Amun.  Isaac Manevitz is the luxury jewelry designer and founder (the name is after his eldest son).  He has quite an A-list following both fashion insiders and celebrities alike.

The piece above is the sapphire and crystal deco bracelet.  I actually purchased this piece through Moda Operandi (membership-only pre-order of runway collection pieces). I have worn this piece twice now and literally have had five or six people ask me about it or say how stunning it is.  It captures the light gorgeously.

I am also wishing for this pearl bracelet with crystal pin.  Manavitz is able to capture delicately designed crystals, gems with a little vintage appeal.  I look at these pieces and am transcended back in time, roaring 20's anyone?  Love.

I purchased his sapphire sunburst earrings to pair with the bracelet above and they are also stunning.  It can take a little black dress to a whole other level.

Whatever you love, wear it with passion and I hope whether you spend it quietly or dance the night away, have a wonderful and "sparkly" New Year.  Cheers.

Once Upon a Swarovski...

Once Upon a Swarovski... by crewcat featuring faux jewelry

The Very Merry Gift Guide...J. Crew!

It has been awhile since my last post...so sorry.  Like so many, have been wrapped up (no pun intended) with so many work projects.  Doesn't November and December seem to roll on Fast Forward!  It is hectic.  I know you all must feel the same.  I have to say though that so many of my favorite retailers have beautiful offerings for the holidays and their online sites are beautiful.  I love the catalogs too, but would much prefer saving a tree since I do so much shopping online.  J. Crew has come into December with a jingle and a fantastic color splash.  Their Very Merry Gift Guide aims to please and I only wish I looked great with this beautiful yellow! The photography is just exquisite.  The bright colors with snow white backgrounds throughout the calendar add an extra pop.  If you have been paying attention, they've had fab sales including up to 30% off + free ship $150 over.  This is great whether you have a small list or one that is growing!  When I logged in tonight, I also got a note for free ship and free monogramming regardless of total!  I love these touches.  The monogramming is something that I have been taking advantage of lately.  It is such a great personalization.  I love ordering men's shirts oversized and adding the monogram - great alternative to sleepwear too!

I am loving all the Lulu Frost for J. Crew deco bangles.  The tortoise is pretty much the only one that I do not have (note to self!).  These would be lovely gifts for your fav girl's.  And, who says personal gift giving is not allowed!

It is hard to get through J. Crew's site this holiday without self-gifting.  My favorite purchase so far has been the Edie tote in flame which I bought through 30% off.  It is absolutely gorgeous.  I though initially it would be too thin, but it is quite roomy and feels amazing!  Go ahead, splurge a little for yourself too!  Do you have any items that you are wishing for soon?

Cheers.