rain is fall-ing

Yup, I absolutely went there with the cheesy title. I feel like rainy days inspire me in the getting dressed department more than sunny days. I like to think it's some long lost Irish ancestor running through my blood, who feels more at home when it's cloudy. Since last Spring (remember how it took forever to warm up??) I've loved the idea of cozy skirts and fitted leather jackets when the weather is like this.

Jacket // Tee // Skirt // Tights // Rain Boots (20% with code IMAFRIEND!)

How awesome is that tee? I get weird about graphic tees, it's that I don't feel cool enough to wear them. But I love Batman and it is October, so I think it works, especially paired with the faux leather jacket.

Friends, don't forget to enter this week's giveaway by commenting on THIS post. Winner announced tomorrow!

xoxo,

fall under $100

Call me crazy, but I feel myself pulling ever so slightly away from button down shirts. Perhaps it's that I now work for myself, or it could be that I now think of this past summer as a sartorial revolution for me. Or I could cut the crap and say that I'm just sick of them. Whatever the reason, when I was sourcing pieces for this morning's post, I found myself silently vetoing plaid button downs. You see a lot of them here and I appreciate that maybe you may not share in my enthusiasm. But a drapey blouse. It's like giving a heroin addict methadone. Okay that's a terribly inappropriate analogy, but do you see what I mean? It's a nice go between. Ever flattering, not quite a button down, but a nice departure for me. Bonus! Every item in this moodboard is under $100. Have at it, friends!

top // denim // bag // boots

My dream is for this outfit to be paired with this incredibly cozy coat. What say you? Are you loving this as much as I am? You could easily swap out the jeans for a pair of trousers to make this corporate appropriate attire.

Friends! Do not forget to enter the giveaway! I'll be announcing the winner this Friday!!

xoxo,

large and in charge

What is it about fall that makes us want to renew and refresh? It's that back to school mentality that makes us get down to business and get to work. Of course, for me, it means wanting to change everything (my apartment...for one). I have been obsessed with large art lately. We have a sizable mirror over our couch, but I just want an ENORMOUS piece of art. Aren't these pictures mouthwatering? There's something simple and stately about one singular focal point on a wall. It's ballsy, yeah? It's like you're saying, "you don't NEED to look anywhere else." I think we're going to have to try it...

What are you thinking about mixing up this Fall? xoxo

images via Pinterest.

FIVER: items to pull out of storage now

Well, so much for the chill in the air, yeah? It's going to be in the 80s and 90s all week this week...I'm not thrilled, but, this is good opportunity to start thinking about the ways we can blend our summer and fall items in the most awesome way.  (Also good luck to everyone who started school today! I told the kids I babysit for that I finished ALL my school and it blew their mind.) On a closet makeover last week (photos to come soon, it was...epic), we focused solely on summer stuff, and we briefly touched on pieces to start layering into my client's existing summer wardrobe to take her to fall.

Listen, I know I'm talking a LOT about transitioning seasons. It's just so satisfying to me, so bear with me.

If you live in NYC and your closet is the size of a large froyo container, here are 5 items to pull out of fall storage that you will definitely use for the next couple weeks:

1. Handbag: I've been wearing my fall handbag for weeks. Dark green seems so clearly autumnal, and yet, here I am, defiantly wearing it around town with white shorts. I'm being facetious when I say defiant, but it's definitely more of a fall color. Who cares!? Bring out that black leather bag, trade in that cotton tote for a more structured piece. The time is now!

2.  Closed-Toe Shoes: Let's do it. Our toes will thank us. Mine are looking ready to go into hibernation, and I see no need to deny them. Remember, there are no rules. Go ahead, wear suede booties with shorts, patent leather or metallic loafers with white pants. In fact, if you do, send me a pic, because respect.

3. Lightweight Button Down: Start the layering. Unabashedly. All of your offices are freezing - I know this. Silky top, button down. Me likey.

4. Plaid: Plaid is a year round endeavor for me, but I know there are those of us who pair it only with fall like pb&j. Bring it out, wear it with a mini skirt, tie it around your waist.

5. Outerwear: Ditch. The. Denim. Give it a little break. No more jean jackets. I want to see blazers! Vests! Give me give me.

Wow, I sound like a drug addict. It's true, I need my fall fix. Please, friends, take some pictures this week and tag me @littleredswell because I want to see your beautiful outfits.

xoxo

emmy best dressed and my fall outfit

Good morning friends! I feel obligated to run through a few of my favorites from last night's Emmy Awards, if only to fully appreciate the ladies who shut it down.

There were a lot of good looks last night. I didn't see  a whole lot of dresses I wasn't a fan of, but in no particular order, these were my favorites:

Uzo Aduba in Christian Siriano

How amazing does she look? Everything is perfect from the hair to the makeup to her dress...and that color on her is divine. I adore and respect her work so much, and l love seeing her killing it here.

Julia Roberts in Elie Saab

I'm not a huge fan of Julia Roberts but I love this dress so much. I love the grey navy color, and her legs...please.  The skirt is the perfect length, and neckline is just low enough, and I adore the long sleeves. Bravo, Julia!

Kiernan Shipka in Antonio Berardi

This little lady is FOURTEEN, and she already has the red carpet formula down pat. Her looks are always rounded out and a little retro. She looks amazing here, that's it.

January Jones in Prabal Gurung

I never get tired of seeing January Jones on the red carpet. She is consistently one of my favorites and this look is no exception. This dress could have gone the princess-y route, but I love that she toned the look down with her  bold makeup and casual (I can't think of a better word) hair.

Today I'm officially back to work at my day job and like I said yesterday, I'm excited to be back into a routine (and normal eating habits!). As thankful as I am for this mild summer, I am more than ready to experience fall in all of its crispy splendor. I'm ready for JEANS and layers and layers and oxfords. Tell me, what is your go to outfit for fall?

xoxo

images via Just Jared.