Classic Shades

The Wayfarer was designed by Ray-Ban in 1952. Wayfarers enjoyed early popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, especially after they were worn by Audrey Hepburn in the 1961 movie Breakfast at Tiffany's. The Wayfarer is hotter than ever and can be seen around Hollywood today. The Wayfarer is classic for both women and men and now comes in every color imaginable.

Classic Wayfarer $140

Baby It's Cold Outside

This New Year's Eve, get cozy in his sweater and invite him over for drinks by the fireplace. But, if you are like me and don't have a wood burning fireplace in your tiny walk-up apartment, escape to a cozy bed and breakfast upstate. Avoid the lines at the clubs in Manhattan and have a New Year's Eve you will love to remember!

AE Men's Holiday Cardigan $79.95

VS Leggings $24.50

Soft Knit Boy Short $11.99

xo Nat

Gifts that Give Back

As a member of the Young Professionals Committee for Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of New York City, I was excited when I came across a unique opportunity to contribute to the organization.... SHOPPING!  When you purchase the fabulous items pictured below from now until January 31st, 30 percent of the purchase price benefits BBBS.  If you are still searching for a thoughtful gift for your mother, sister, or girlfriend - consider the merchandise below worthy.  They will love the gift, but love it even more when they hear it is benefiting an organization that's mission is to help children reach their potential through professionally supported, one-to-one relationships with mentors.  

Luna Boston

Treesje "Avalon" patent bag, $595

lunaboston.com

Beauty Habit

Diptyque L'Eau de Neroli Cologne, $150

beautyhabit.com

Standard Style

Paul & Joe Sister short-sleeved top, $183

standardstyle.com

xo Nat

Mistletoe?

Who needs mistletoe when you are wearing this siren dress from DVF?! Heads will turn and men will follow. Make sure you wear the proper undergarments for this sexy number. Check out the new Victoria's Secret store at Lexington and 58th street for the ultimate pantie shopping experience.

Diane von Furstenberg, $465, available at Bloomingdales.

xo Nat

Trimmings

While you should be thinking about trimming the Christmas tree... why not adorn yourself with this vintage inspired necklace by Rachel Leigh. The soft pink, green, and yellow baubles make me think of sugar and spice and everything nice! Rather than wearing the expected red to your holiday party, stand out in a vintage yellow shift dress and this necklace. Now the trick is finding the perfect dress! I will be on the lookout...stay tuned!

Rachel Leigh: $180, available at Wink.

xo Nat

Satin Strands

My stylist, Emily, from the Vidal Sassoon salon at Fifth Avenue not only reinvented my look with a sharp cut and bangs, she introduced me to this fabulous new hair product from Kerastase.  Ciment Thermique is a heat activated lotion applied to damp hair before heat styling.  It's tropical scent will free you from the gray of winter and will brighten the dullest of strands. My hair has never been so shiny!  I was amazed how smooth it makes my hair without weighing it down.  Pick up Ciment Thermique for $34 at your local salon or from the Kerastase website.  Please don't be fooled by overpriced specialty stores... while I love Clyde's on Madison, I was shocked to see a $55 price tag on this product! Pamper your hair and restore its natural beauty. 

xo Nat 

Your Highness

Rachel Ashwell's, Shabby Chic shop in Soho has everything to make a woman feel like a queen in her home. Rachel's delicate quilts, ornate antique mirrors, and unique vintage accessories are simply marvelous. Her appreciation for history and sensibility for comfort make her designs special. Follow the Shabby Chic philosophy and search for your own treasures at estate sales. A worn dresser can be update with crystal knobs and bring character to your space. A feminine vase filled with fresh pink roses will set a romantic mood. Rachel also has a less expensive line at Target for those watching their budget. Pictured below are a few of my favorite crown accessories from her Soho shop.

xo Nat

Graceful Gloves

Jackie O was a woman of style, grace and humility. Her influence on fashion and the arts will always be admired. From her large sunglasses and classic shift dresses, the trend I would most like to see become mainstream again is the presence of the glove. And no... not the eighties style glove, a dainty sophisticated glove that is worn with your favorite dress for a day of shopping at Saks. I recently went looking for gloves and could only find a dusty pink pair at a tiny vintage shop on the Upper East Side. Dainty gloves aside, I must say that I am anti-mittens this winter season! In my opinion, mittens as well as Ugg boots should be reserved for visiting a ski lodge, running to Starbucks in the morning to get a coffee, or ice skating in Central Park. Other than those circumstances - mittens and Ugg boots make your hands and feet look chubby! My suggestion for this winter is to invest in a nice pair of black long leather gloves. Pictured, Alfani - Cashmere Lined Long Leather Glove: $96 on sale at Macy's.

xo Nat

Funky + Classic: JEMMA WYNNE

Stephanie Wynne, age 26, and Jenny Klatt, 24, know what young women want... fine jewelry, but not the jewels from your grandmother's box. The two young jewelry designers met while working together at Judith Ripka, and have recently broken away to start their own line, Jemma Wynne.  Sitting down with Steph and Jenny to view their collection was a treat because it was no different than discussing fashion with my closest girlfriends.  The two women have a tight bond while maintaining their own unique styles and this allows them to create jewelry that is both funky and classic.

Rich vibrant colors inspire their work and they often experiment by twisting classic shapes to create pieces that are fresh and fun.  The ring pictured was love at first sight!  It's whimsical nature and feminine design of 18k gold, Kunzite and diamonds leaves me daydreaming.  Jemma Wynne is a versatile line with something for everyone, whether it's stackable bangles, pendants, deco earrings, cocktail rings, or necklaces for layering.  Steph and Jenny suggest mixing and matching their pieces to create your own look.  Their cocktail rings are flirty and go well with a t-shirt and jeans during the day to a dress at night.  

When I asked the designers who they would like to see their jewelry on they said, Sarah Jessica Parker, Cameron Diaz, and Rachel Bilson just to name a few.  What do these celebs have in common with Jemma Wynne?  They are youthful, innovative and exude confident style.  Watch out for this designing duo, they will be your newest craving, and you will be dying to get your fingers in their rings as soon as they hit the stores.  

Jemma Wynne's Must Haves

1.  Amazing hoop earrings

2.  A large gemstone ring

3.  Bangles or a large cuff

xo Nat

That's Amore!

The way to a man's heart is through baked ziti... and of course old fashioned flirting.  You might not always make or eat a hearty meal like baked ziti, but trust me your guy will love it!  Invite Mr. Perfect over for a homemade Italian dinner, pick up a bottle of Chianti, and turn on Dean Martin for some romance.  I would also suggest dressing up for the occasion, heels are needed even if you are at home.  Try this delicious baked ziti recipe from Williams-Sonoma... a guaranteed hit!

Baked Ziti with Ricotta Mozzarella, Sausage & Tomato Sauce

1 lb (500 g) sweet Italian pork sausages

Kosher salt for cooking the pasta

1 lb (500 g) dried ziti

2 batches Marinara Sauce

1/4 lb (125 g) Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, freshly grated to make 1 cup

2 cups (1 lb/500 g) whole-milk or part-skim ricotta cheese

3/4 lb (375 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, drained and shredded to make 3 cups

Makes 8-10 servings

1.  Cook the sausages

2.  Cook the ziti

3. Drain and sauce the ziti

4.  Layer the ingredients in a baking dish

5.  Bake and serve the dish

xo Nat

Matt & Nat

Over six years ago, I discovered Matt & Nat at one of my favorite boutiques in Royal Oak, Michigan called Paris. Paris carries an assortment of vintage jewelery as well as new bags from the Montreal based company Matt & Nat. Not only was I excited to find a great new company, but the name was right on. That Christmas my brother Matt and I (Nat) bought my mom a Matt & Nat bag - too much fun! Matt & Nat is a collection of design-centric, fashion-forward accessories that is also vegan. Their handbags are made with only the finest quality materials, and to tell you the truth it is hard to believe they are not genuine leather. Besides looking like leather, they resist the elements like sun, rain, and grime better than leather. Their prices are much friendlier than leather too! Matt & Nat can be found in NYC at Saks, Bloomingdales, and Searle.

Halloween Costumes from your Closet

Halloween is the one day of the year where you can dress as flamboyantly as you'd like without getting strange looks on the train. Follow my Do's and Don'ts for a successful night!

DO
1. Utilize pieces from your own closet to build a look that is flattering.
2. Shop at vintage stores for the accessories.
3. Spend the money on a wig to complete the transformation.
4. Research your character like an actress. It is more fun to completely get into character.
5. Wear hot shoes. If you don't have a pair that suits your costume - check out Payless for a carefree buy.

DON'T
1. Put on ears, horns, or wings and think you have a complete costume. Put some effort into your look by planning ahead of time.
2. Buy a generic packaged costume from your local superstore.
3. Forget about your make-up. A costume is not enough on Halloween.
4. Be shy! Be bold in your choices.
5. Delay... time to get shopping! Halloween is only 9 days away!

Places to Shop

American Apparel - A great place to find basics, leggings, shiny hot shorts, and much more to serve as a base for your costume.

Rickys NYC - Shop at Ricky's for your wig, nail polish, and make-up, but shy away from their expensive packaged costumes.

Payless - Pick up a pair of inexpensive heels for Trick or Treating.

Trash & Vaudeville - Visit this St. Marks shop for leather, fur, rocker and punk looks. They have a lot of fun items that will make your otufit a hit. Check out their shoes and boots on the lower level.

Girl Props - While visiting Trash and Vaudeville, stop at Girlprops for jewelry that is inexpensive and so much fun!

Can you guess what I will be for Halloween? I am going to be Sandy from Grease as pictured above. Time to find the perfect wig! I've already got Danny, so the rest is easy....

Happy Halloween!
xo Nat

My Boyfriend's Back

Katie Holmes brought back the boyfriend jean when she was photographed day after day in a pair of Tom's jeans that were oversized and pegged at her ankles. Since I don't think the oversized and pegged variety are the most flattering, I would suggest trying a boy jean that is slimmer through the thigh and butt. Also, rather than pegging your pants like you did in the 80's, roll the cuff three times for a more polished look. Pictured is the Boy Jean in Dark Stonewash from JCrew. Remember to keep your look easy-going when wearing the boy jean, it is important to not look like you are trying to hard. Boy jeans are supposed to be comfortable and broken-in, just like your BF's. <3

xo Nat

Watch Me

My brother bought me my first watch when I graduated from college; a Burberry with the classic plaid band.  Never before did I worry about wearing a watch.  I was always running to and from dance rehearsal and taking a watch on and off was too much of a hassle in college.  As soon as I started working in New York and running around this crazy town with four inch heels - I never forgot to wear my Burberry watch!  A great watch is a necessity for any working girl and of course it must have style.  I love this Michael Kors watch because it is the perfect shade of gold and its simplicity makes it versatile enough to wear everyday.  MICHAEL Michael Kors Women's Chronograph Bracelet Watch $225.

xo Nat

Luxe Headband

Blair Waldorf (Leighton Meester's character on Gossip Girl )would approve of this luxe peacock feather headband with satin bow detail by Jennifer Ouellette; $75 at Barneys New York. Wear it casual with jeans, flats, and a simple top or dress it up with an updo, stilettos, and a strapless dress. Either way, let the headband get all the attention by keeping accessories to a minimum. Blair demands attention... follow her lead!

xo Nat

Coco

Claudia Schiffer and her brunette bob for Chanel's 2008-2009 Fall/Winter Ad Campaign is stunning.  While I love my long dark locks, this campaign is enough to make me want to chop my hair (don't worry Jonathan and Dad I won't cut my hair tomorrow!)  I have a slight obsession with lace and sweetheart necklines... and I think these tights are the perfect contrast in texture.  I recently watched the Lifetime original movie Coco Chanel and she once said, "A woman can be over-dressed, never over-elegant."

Milky Skin

My skin is in pore heaven with the bliss clog-dissolving cleansing milk.  I have been using this product for almost a week and my face is visibly smoother and continues to improve each day.  This face cleanser is awesome because it is gentle on sensitive skin while deep cleaning pores and leaving skin squeaky clean.  On top of the skin benefits it smells fresh!

xo Nat 

Ladylike Leather

I recently bought this Aqua Women's Crop Motorcycle Jacket at Bloomingdales.  It caught my eye in the Lexington window display - but I was almost certain I would not be able to afford it.  Lucky me - I was pleasantly surprised that the jacket was only $278!  Searching for a small I was quickly let down... but my fashion radar spotted one on a statuesque mannequin near the Diane von Furstenburg collection!  Fingers were crossed... and oh yes it was a small!  Happy girl leaves the store.  New fall leather jacket in hand.  Imagination runs wild.  Must pair with my floral dress.   

xo Nat

Cinderella wore Oscar

Dear Fairy Godmother,
My wish is to wear this gorgeous black and white gown from Oscar de la Renta's Spring 2009 Ready-to-Wear Collection to the ball. I simply adore the crisp lace bodice, belted waist, and black tulle! Forget the glass slippers this time...ask Jac and Gus if they can find a black Jimmy Choo peep toe instead. The evil step sisters are bound to have a pair in their closet! Ok, I must get back to scrubbing the floors. Toodles!
Love,
Cinderella

( As a child I dreamed of being Cinderella, now I just dream of this dress! xo Nat)

Bun Head

Curtain call! Whitney Port, takes a bow with the classic ballerina bun - a hairstyle that she frequently wears on The Hills. Whitney's effortless style is clean, sophisticated, and flirty. Her loose version of the Swan Lake bun is romantic and easier to wear than the tight, headache causing type worn with a tutu. A bun head is a fast and easy style for the "it" girl on the run to the latest fashion event. Let your face shine and pull that hair into a bun girls!

xo Nat

Paint Plum

On my walk home from the 6 train last night I stopped in Ricky's and bought this adventurous plum polish; Bahama Mama by Essie $8. It is the perfect compliment to your fall wardrobe. Pair it with a beautiful floral scarf or with a statement ring in a jewel tone.

Tarnish Square Ikat Print Scarf $98; Rebecca Citrine Dome Ring $640

Badgley on a Budget

Badgley Mischka's feminine yet edgy look from the Fall 2008 Ready-To-Wear collection grabbed my attention. The tulip jacket, simple black turtleneck, and sharp accessories are all within your reach. Recreate this look to fit your lifestyle and budget. I have replaced the cropped suit jacket with a long trench for more versatility and suggest wearing the ensemble with your favorite black skirt or pair of skinny jeans.

Left to Right: Large Floppy Hat - Banana Republic $69; Tissue Turtleneck - JCrew $39.50; Shimmer Weave Trench - Nic + Zoe $196; Pyramid Stud Satchel - Mossimo $24.99; Cheyla Suede Boots - Steve Madden $189.95; Multi-chain necklace - Forever 21 $6.80

Red Hot!

Red lipstick is a beauty staple that will heat up any look. Some of today's hottest stars including Christina Aguilera, Gwen Stefani, and Scarlett Johansson rock red lips - and you can too! Follow these fool proof steps and find your inner vixen!

1. Red lips demand attention.

Be confident in yourself and show off your pearly whites.

2. Always prep your lips.

Start with clean dry lips and a sharpened lip liner to match your lipstick shade. Always apply red lipstick with a lip brush for the most precise application.

3. Keep the focus on the lips.

Skip heavy eye makeup when wearing red lips. I suggest a neutral eye shadow in taupe to keep the attention on the lips.

4. Make it last.
To keep your lipstick lasting all night long, follow these steps. 1. Apply lipstick. 2. Blot with tissue paper. 3. Lightly powder lips. 4. Apply a final coat of lipstick. VOILA!

This season, grab a new tube of red lipstick in cherry and berry hues. Check out these shades: Benefit silky finish lipstick in Frenched, MAC mattene lipstick in Rapturous, and Sephora plumping lip gloss in Red.

xo Nat

I Love My Bootie

My booties are hot! Are yours? Ankle boots from oxford to platform are a "must have" this fall. With so many varieties in style and color this season, you can find the perfect bootie to fit your personality. Show off your booties with skinny jeans, dresses, and skirts! I suggest wearing leggings or tights that don't match your booties. For instance, try pairing the perfect little black dress with deep purple tights and black patent booties. Bootielicious!

Left to Right: Isaac Mizrahi for Target $25.89; Miss Sixty $163; Nine West Boutique 9 $160; Steve Madden $109; Moschino $549.

Musical Romance

Curl up at home with a glass of Merlot, light a vanilla candle, paint your nails the newest shade of plum, and listen to musical romance Mario Spinetti. Mario popped up in my Facebook account a couple months ago and since then I have been frequenting his MySpace page to listen to his Debut EP. One of my favorites, When you Say My Name, is delicately passionate.

Here is an excerpt from When You Say My Name:

Slowly

Surrender

You don't have to be afraid of where

You are

When you say my name

And you know I'm there

When you say my name

And you fall into my arms

Falling when you say

My name

And you know …
And you know …
And you know

I'll be there

I'll be there …
I'll be there

You can fall into my arms

"Are those your lashes?"

As a young competitive figure skater, my mom swiped mascara on my lashes for the first time at age 6. She was then left wiping the black smudges out of my eyebrows while I sat dolled-up in my sequined costume ready to take the ice. In the 3rd grade my best friend tried to persuade me to trim my lengthy lashes with the scissors in Mr. Forsythe's Art class. Luckily, I trusted my instincts! When I started wearing clear mascara in middle school I was teased by the girls at my lunch table because they thought my long lashes looked like "spider legs." By the time I reached high school I fully embraced my "spider legs" and used them to my advantage. Flirting with your eyes should not be underestimated!

Over the years I have tried almost every mascara on the market and I always come back to my faithful companion - L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara. The brush is superior because it enables you to lift the lashes from the base of your lid, creating sky-high volume and length. The texture of the mascara does not smudge after a night of dancing, nor does it get crusty and leave debris on your face. The greatest thing about this mascara is that you will only need one coat!

Other tips:
Always remove mascara at the end of the day with a moisturizing eye makeup remover. I suggest Neutrogena Oil Free Makeup Remover because it is gentle and will not clog your pores.

Vaseline will moisturize and thicken brittle lashes. Take a Q-Tip with a small amount of Vaseline on the tip and wand it through your lashes before bedtime. Make sure to avoid using too much Vaseline to prevent getting it in your eyes. Always remove the Vaseline before applying mascara.

Happy Batting!
xo Nat