Je Ne Care Pas

It doesn't matter that summer starts in a few days, or that it's 35 degrees and dripping outside.  I want this sweater. So much, in fact, that I'm considering rearranging my schedule today so I can drive to the mall and snatch it up before it sells out.  I'll wear it all year long over a fitted tank and as a layering piece with white shorts and cognac sandals for cool summer evenings by the lake.  I can even imagine wearing it with neon accents, from the chunky lucite bracelet I picked up at H&M to a bright pink neon tank underneath. (PS - It also comes in ivory and a gorgeous bright orangey red that will be perfect for fall).  Now, this is what you call an occupational hazard. Arg.  I just hope it feels as nice as it looks...will keep you posted x

The Open Stitch Henley ($40) is available now at American Eagle Outfitters

UPDATE: Bought the sweater - It's super pretty and very, very lightweight so it makes the perfect summer sweater.  I expect it might stretch out if I'm not careful but at $40, it's definitely worth the risk.

Pretty in Pastels

Originally posted in The LOOK

When it comes to colour, our favourite hues are a deeply personal matter.  My daughter, for example, is OBSESSED with pink..in fact she'll wear nothing else..to the point where she asked me the other day if we could rename her Pinkie-Pie - she was so not kidding. Meanwhile, my friend takes one glance at an orange sweater and a look of complete confusion crosses her face,  "Ugh," she'll say, "I just don't get why anyone would choose to wear orange."

This spring, runways were rife with vivid pastels in sorbet shades like lemon yellow, mint green, and soft bubblegum pink.  Yum!  The new pastels are a pretty departure from all the bold, vivid brights we've seen for the past few seasons and are a much less intimidating way to experiment with colour.   Love 'em or hate 'em, here are some key ways to wear pastels right:

Liven up your neutrals:  Punchy pastels contrast beautifully against whites, denims and neutral beiges & tans.  Try adding a pastel tee or sweater to your white jeans for an instant spring pick-me-up.

Go Head-to-Toe:  Top-to-toe pastels are not for the faint of heart, but look amazing when worn right.  Choose sleek silhouettes to avoid looking like a cupcake

Try Small Doses:  Take advantage of accessories to test out the trend.  A group of stacked pastel bangles or a great pastel bag will help you look totally current.

Add Spice to the Sweetness:  Nude or tan extras are super safe choices but I love how Emma Roberts unexpectedly teamed black with her mint frock.  A black leather bomber or killer black shoes add some necessary edge to all the ladylike sweetness