the style observer is about putting it all together

the essence of Nantucket style

July 25th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ $$ $$$ Anya Hindmarch accessories clothing dresses handbags hats shoes sunglasses

The salt air hits her face as she walks to the upper deck of the ferry and she’s immediately transported. The island she’s visited every summer for the past eight years is fresh in her mind once again. Crisp cool air, bike rides to the beach, the romantic feel of the fog rolling in, and the unforgettable family moments marked by the island. It’s a casual-chic island. It’s all about cotton tunics, white jeans, linen, a cashmere cardigan, a straw bag, and a pair of great sandals. The whole point of the island is to take in the sea air, embrace the outdoors, and escape the hectic life of the city. So, convince yourself to get away fom it all. Go sit on the beach and listen to powerful east coast waves as they crash down on Madaket sand. After a week, you’ll be refreshed and welcome your return to the big city.

Ack items in this Nantucket observation:

  • Electra ‘Townie 21′ bike @ REI
  • Kelsey dress @ Calypso
  • Ray Ban aviator sunglasses @ Asos
  • sur la tete ‘Knotted Swinger’ hat @ Village Hat Shop
  • ‘Justine’ straw beach bag @ Anya Hindmarch
  • printed beach towel @ Hermes
  • Eliza B. macrame flip-flop @ Jilidor

  • the black dress

    March 6th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ Aspects Chanel Christian Louboutin D&G DVF Ghibli Giuseppe Zanotti Isabella Fiore McQ Moschino Rebecca Taylor Sergio Rossi accessories clothing dresses handbags looks shoes

    Everybody is always talking about “the little black dress”, and how to hunt down the perfect one. Well, we actually think you need more than just one. We think you should acquire three or four perfect black dresses, one to suit every occasion. First, the formal black dress. This dress should be sleek and simple. That way you can mix it with pearls, diamonds, or no jewelry for a minimalist look. It should be the kind of dress you have tucked away in your closet, that looks perfect every time you whip it out. Next, the cocktail party dress. This dress is tailored, and slightly demure. It dresses up or down beautifully, depending on the accessories. For instance, a Thursday night cocktail party would call for gold jewelry, black leather pumps, and a small shoulder bag. Whereas, for a Saturday night you could pull out the heavy duty jewels, patent leather pumps, and a clutch. Then, the black wrap dress. This dress works on so many levels. It’s great for work, for a dinner date, or for an after work party. You can pair it with boots for a more casual chic look, or with pumps to dress it up a bit. Finally, the wild card. This dress is more fun and flirty. Choose a dress that is more festive, with added beading or intricate details. It’s the dress you wear to your friend’s birthday party, and dance all night long. The black dress is really versatile, that’s why so many of us migrate to it. Don’t limit yourself to only one, give yourself options. Go forth and find your four perfect black dresses!

    Top Look:
    Moschino plunge front dress
    Chanel Classic bag with flap @ bagborroworsteal
    Christian Louboutin Declic leather pumps
    Right Look:
    Rebecca Taylor beaded chiffon dress
    Ghibli front row black patent leather clutch @ Forzieri
    D&G Dolce & Gabbana patent carla peep toe pump @ eLuxury
    Bottom Look:
    Diane von Furstenberg volante wrap dress @ Net-a-Porter
    Isabella Fiore ‘Wild Thing’ brooke satchel
    Sergio Rossi Slouchy knee boots
    Left Look:
    McQ Draped dress @ Net-a-Porter
    Aspects bow clutch with chain strap @ eBags
    Giuseppe Zanotti Taz Swarovski embellished sandals @ Net-a-Porter