As a kid, I got hooked on a random Strawberry Shortcake movie.  Thinking back it was a peculiar cartoon, with different shortcake friends bobbing their oversized heads and playing guitars.  This of course was after a fairy came and made their hair grow.  In the end, the antagonist (a purple fellow the shade of my top) was destroyed by the titillated follicles.  I was an odd little thing.

I finally found a belt that’s a keeper and have been experimenting with different methods of wear.  I usually stray away from voluminous silhouettes, but using the belt cinches the waist and allows the top to flow into the lines of the skirt.  Sometimes volume is a good thing.

credits: Rachel Comey top, Rachel Comey double buckle belt, Elizabeth & James skirt, Spanx tights, Rick Owens motorcycle jacket, Rachel Comey Penpal boots

Clothing that moves.  Skirts that flounce every step down the stairs.  Pockets.  These are a few of my favorite things.  Can you tell the skirt has all of the above?  Vivienne Westwood designs some beautiful pieces and has a great appreciation for asymmetrical shapes.  She goes as far as placing single pockets in her garments (true of this skirt and my wizard jacket).  Where do you stand on the asymmetrical divide?  Personally, I think Dame Westwood can get away with much more.

credits:
K by Karl Lagerfeld ascot turtleneck, Vivienne Westwood skirt, Spanx tights, Hugo Boss boots

I try to avoid following the flock of fads churned out every season,  but I like the tights under shorts look that’s reemerged.  Something about the layering transforms the denim shorts from young-casual into sophisticated-cool.  The top is a Phillip Lim men’s tee.  I love the drapey pocket and loose fit.  Can you tell I enjoy playing with different shapes?

credits:
3.1 Phillip Lim tee, 7 for all Mankind DIY cutoffs, Spanx tights, Hugo Boss boots

I got click happy when I found this Westwood dress on sale at la garconne.  I fell under the spell of its plum shade and dramatically draped back.  But this handsome frock is tough to wear.  The feather weight jersey material tends to cling making it a handle- with-care piece.  Spanx to the rescue.  Of course that can mean a number of options ranging from underwear to hoisery.   With my latest leggy obsession, it’s no surprise that I chose a pair of tights layered with Asos footless socks.  I used the same technique when I styled my Opening Ceremony Safari dress.

credits:
Vivienne Westwood dress, Vince turtleneck, Asos footless socks, Cole Haan pumps

Stocking Stuffed: I am not an accessories girl.  GASP!  I’m sure this mere declaration is sending shivers down your spine.  Afterall, statement jewelry is current and on-trend.  But with the new year, I’ve come to the conclusion that my style doesn’t have to follow the pack.  It changes with my experiences, not with the passing of the seasons.  So NYR #2 is to stay true to my fashion instincts.  And they say, ”You love legwear.  Buy some.  Now.”

These are great chevron print tights.  I like them paired with this gingham coat even though the ad is straight out of the 90′s.  Can’t you see them adding some edge to an otherwise drab outfit?  I can.  Available at luxelegwear.com.

As a classically trained dancer, I think that legwarmers should stay in the studio.  Just kidding.  Only an unimaginative pomp would spout such nonsense.  If you can pull off a cool look, knock yourself out.   But I draw the line at pointe shoes, especially if you are a stickly thin lady trying to take a stab at my precious Degas.  Available at asos.com.

Spanx is great.  I hope Santa dropped off a few to each and every thong flasher.  Yep, still see them.  Since I don’t participate in such shenanigans, I got some footless tights from the fat jolly man.  I love them so much I wear them around the house because I don’t want to take them off.  Pro: They look cool with shoes because they create a bandage look.  Con: Sometimes they slip off your tootsies and then become just regular leggings.  At least you can wear them both ways.  Available at spanx.com.

At last, the creme de la creme of legwear, Wolford.  I didn’t know what the big deal was until I got a pair.  The fabric is luxe soft and feels good on the skin.  I have the 50 denier in barolo (wine/burgundy) and am experimenting with new looks.  It’s a challenge, but I like trying new things.  Available at wolfordboutiquelondon.com.