The Best Watch for Summer

Nothing refreshes your summer neutrals and khakis or highlights your summer tan like accessories in candy-colored hues.

That's why I just love this color wheel watch. It's fun and brightens my day, even when dark rain clouds are threatening. And, after all, isn't it much more fun to tell time in lavender and sunny yellow.

Wonder Women: Kate, Audra and myself

My friend Audra designed this fabulous watch. She said she set out to find the perfect watch to place art of a color wheel design in. "I had seen color wheel designs on umbrellas and I thought it would be further awesome to have the design on an everyday article - a watch," said said. "I love rainbows of colors more than chocolate and puppy dogs which to some could be hard to believe."

The watch comes in white, grey and black straps. You can purchase your own at here or contact me directly.

Razzle Dazzle At Ann Taylor

I stopped shopping Ann Taylor when I no longer looked for corporate suits in the mall. But the specialty store chain has undergone a massive makeover over the past year to become more stylish, beyond chic, sophisticated and more on trend. I recently attended a preview for their fall 2010 collection at the swank ACE hotel and was completely dazzled by the clothing chain's smartly tailored, well-made modern pieces that was infused with romantic sensibilities and old-world charm.

While scoping out the fashion crowd and celebrities like Rachel Blison and Mad Men's Christina Hendricks, my heart skipped a beat when I noticed all the beautiful accessories. The opulent pieces included eye-popping Swarovski crystal necklaces, grosgrain ribbon and rhinestone pendants, beaded cocktail rings, leopard print pumps, vintage-inspired booties.

I particularly loved the way the gorgeous pieces were displayed. The accessories were lovingly placed on books and glass cake trays, two of my favorite things.

All of the accessories will complement Ann Taylor's brilliant fall collection. The look celebrate the one-year style anniversary under the direction of head designer Lisa Axelson. Ann Taylor's fall looks includes sleek pencil skirts, classic jackets and feminine dresses in black, neutrals and leopard prints.

Even this sweet puppy got his paws on some jewels. Doesn't he look fabulous?

As a parting gift, Ann Taylor gave guests their own chunky sparkler. It will add a nice playful element to many looks, especially my LBD's and boyfriend tees.

I'm so happy to see Ann Taylor coming back to life. They have always catered to the hard working woman, but they have been hard at work softening their look and making it more appealing to everyone. What do you think of their new accessories. Any that caught your eye? Let me know in the comments.

Fabulous Fridays: A Flower Grows In Manhattan

Happy Friday everyone!!! We made it through the rain and the Spring sunshine is finally with us. All throughout New York City, colorful flowers are again dotting the city landscape and the streets are packed with people who must have been as happy as I was to feel the sun on your skin again. It's just what the doctor has ordered.

Central Park

My street

I'm so ready for Spring. One of the best ways to get in the mood is by wearing floral accessories. Just a simple accent can really lift your spirits. Sarah Jessica Parker's Carrie Bradshaw made one of her signature fashion statements on Sex and the City when she wore her wild flower pins and that trend is really picking up heat this season.

Some might find florals too frilly, too sickening sweet. But when it's not overdone, it can be really beautiful. For me, floral accessories are a super chic and super easy way to freshen your look.

Here are some examples of floral accessories I love:

Floral pins like this gorgeous one from J. Crew are sprouting up all over this Spring. Just add it to your coat, jacket shirt, belt or purse and you'll have your Carrie moment.

J. Crew

This might be my new Spring obsession. Floral hair pins. These dainty pins are available on Etsy.

Etsy

The colorful hues on this golden metal bracelet by Kenneth Jay Lane really make a statement against any simple, neutral Spring look.

Kenneth Jay Lane

I love the neutral shade of this platform sandal by Valentino but the rosettes make this chic design more playful.

Valentino

This festive bag by Valentinois a knockout. I would wear it all year round.

Valentino

I'm really looking forward to the 70 degree weekend. After this wet, wild and cold winter, my Spring fever is on!!!

Spring is a time of renewal, getting out of hibernation, awakening your energies and loving all there is to enjoy in life. Tell me, what are you looking forward to the most this Spring?

Fabulous Fridays: Eyes For Summer

After last weekend's monsoons, I've really been enjoying the Spring-like weather here in New York City. I really do need a pair of these.

The original Tom Ford "Jennifer" sunglasses

These Tom Ford "Jennifer" sunglasses are super chic and are just oversized enough to cover my dark circles. They'll run you $285 at Eye Goodies.

OR

They are also available for a mere $10 at OC Shades.

Imitation Tom Ford "Jennifer" sunglasses

I know I want them because they have my name on it. Who wouldn't want a fabulous pair of shades or a piece of jewelry named after them.

Truth be told, they are actually named after Jennifer Aniston.

Photo source: People magazine

Which do you like better? Do you think the Tom Ford sunglasses are worth the splurge or will have an extra $275 to spend this weekend feel better?

The Little Black Dress, Reinterpreted

With the economy in the toilet and the holiday party season in full swing, your little black dress is more important than ever. Oh, the many places I’ve gone with my little black dress. This dress is the perfect date for weddings and can help you look put together at work. But the little black dress also can be penciled in for fun lunches with friends and casual dinner dates with style and ease. It’s simply the most versatile piece you can own, and probably already do, and is worth the extra splurge for a good one.

I once did a week long test where I wore the same basic black dress all week and just mixed up the secondary players. I wore the black dress one day with knee-high boots, another day with colorful tights, one day with a contrasting cardigan, by adding loads of chunky goldtone necklaces and teamed with a motorcycle jacket. Of course, no one noticed.

With a few fun accessories and your imagination, you can instantly transform you LBD into a chic wonder without breaking the bank. Dress up your LBD with jewelry, a metallic shoe, a colorful clutch, interesting tights or a dramatic wrap.

To begin, you can channel the classic style of Audrey Hepburn with a single strand of pearl at the neck and a matching pair of studs in your ears. For added flourish, add heap loads of pearl necklaces at varying lengths. You can also add a colorful or neutral shoe. Of course, my favorite holiday accessory is a red lip. It’s always classic and happens to be in style again the year.

Why not add a little sparkle to the dress with rhinestone chandelier earrings or armloads of bracelets. Wear your hair pulled back into a playful ponytail to get maximum exposure. I love these chandelier earrings from Henri Bendel. They are party perfect and can really brighten up your look.

For a shiny look, wear your little black dress with metallic shoes or a chic clutch. Just remember, keep the metallics in the same family. So wear gold with gold and silver with silver. These metallic leather open-toe booties can add the perfect touch of glamour to your little black dress. Plus the signature red sole adds a pop of color.

Create a little leg interest when you're tired of your basic black dress. Just add textured and patterned hose in various colors. They bring great flair to the little black dress as well as mini skirts, winter shorts and pencil skirts. These crochet wool tights from Top Shop adds a sexy finish to the little black dress.

Partner your little black dress with a sequined belt. It’s totally unexpected and flatters your waistline. This adorable elastic belt from DKNY is a great one and I just love the flirty bow to polish it off.

Dress it up. The little black dress may be a staple for just about every occasion, but take it a step further with a great topper. I found this St. John Knit Marabou feather shawl on Ebay. It would make a great addition to my army of black dresses.

The ideas are endless, but you get the picture. Not only do accessories help to accentuate your figure, but accessories also allow you to express your creative side and let your personality shine through. Just think of the little black dress as your blank canvas and you can add colors and textures to create your master piece. There is a treasure to be found in consignment shops, Ebay, departments stores and even your Mom’s jewelry boxes.

Tonight I'm going to Michael's office holiday party. I'll post a picture later of how he and I accessorized. But let me know in the comments what you do to add a touch of pizazz to your classic LBD.