Pass up these presents? How could you? How could anyone?

In addition to covering the boutique scene in Boston for Store Adore, I write for a number of other local Boston publications. So, for me, the pre-holiday season means pretty much one thing: Gift Guides. I give the editors a lot of credit this year (including our own Store Adore’s Meredith). They all made their assignments early, and were quite focused in what they wanted to present, so to speak. So I went out, I scoured, I scored. And, thankfully, I have successfully (and painlessly) finished my work.

But in the wake of these guides, there are left all sorts of treasures, which I hate to see go to waste. So here you go, some of my favorite finds that didn’t make the cut. And remember, these are items in actual Boston boutiques—you won’t find them online (but we dare you to try!).

1) These wooden bangles ($30) from modern housewares haven Urban Living Studio in the South End are an updated take on old-fashioned charm bracelets and of-the-moment disc pendant necklaces. A perfect token of friendship at a great price point.

2) Bugs ahoy! These nifty, weighty lucite blocks have bugs embedded in ‘em. I’m hardly an entomologist, or even an insect enthusiast, but I was tickled by these critters. I’m thinking my little boys might find them fun too. Bug blocks (starting at $14), available at Hudson, the South End home furnishings boutique that combines good taste with great finds.

3) Beacon Hill lingerie boutique French Dressing has a new proprietress named Melissa, and boy, does she do sexy. This lacy underwire bra ($195) and lace thong ($98) by brand new label Le Coi Mondain, which means “Shy Socialite” in French is sure to rev his interest, and yours. Sure, it’s a bit pricey (though a bargain compared to La Perla, just across the Common), but the lace and detailing are incredible.

4) When you venture into the cutting edge and thus wallet-draining Louis Boston, avoid the stairs, and instead get lost in the shop’s first floor wonderland of home decor and gifts. I adore this mid-century modern style silver candelabra ($1,375), complete with black tapers. (They also do a model in black.) Surely a splurge, but it makes a spectacular centerpiece

5) I haven’t seen these snuggly tights by Hansel from Basel ($33) anywhere else in Boston besides Miniluxe, the mod Newbury Street and Newton Center nail lounge with über-girly gifts. In addition to the neutral blacks and greys shown here, there’s are also cable knit pumpkin and sage styles, complete with pompoms. I think they’ll make a perfect stocking stuffer for your sister, and mine.

Though the weather outside isn’t exactly frightful just yet (it’s 70 degrees and sunny on Chicago streets today), we shouldn’t get too comfy. Snow and sleet are guaranteed to roll in soon, and thanks to the global warming phenomenon, we could easily be wearing shorts one day and seven layers the next. Couple the impending chill with the fact that it’s dark before the 5 o’clock bell rings, and it’s hibernation time. Soon we’ll be confined to our homes, sitting under a giant blanket and next to a pile of Netflix, lamenting the lack of sunlight and subsequent pale, ghostly sheen that our complexions now boast.

This winter, I’ve stumbled upon a new challenge. I was struck by the thought a few weeks ago, when the weather actually reflected autumnal qualities. During a stretch of extra chilly days, I found that I unconsciously ditched my cute pajamas (think vintage slips and camisole/undies sets—yes, I actually wear these) that I so adore during the warm weather months, and had turned instead to old t-shirts, ratty flannel pants and my boyfriend’s oversized sweats. Okay, oversized can be cute for the first few days, I suppose, but after a week I started to feel sloppy. In my quest for keeping warm, I had abandoned my love for cute sleepwear and reached for anything with extra fabric.

It’s a pattern I repeat each year, but post-epiphany, I decided that this winter, I’m going for a sleeker sleep look. While it’s hardly scientifically proven, I think taking a little pride in nighttime outfits must contribute to confidence or something, right? At least, your sleep companion will be mighty pleased.

I love this simple nightshirt from Stellina. It’s made of comfy cotton and has that relaxed, boyfriend’s shirt vibe, but the come-hither hemline shows off a little extra leg. It’s kind of the sleepwear equivalent of a little black dress— you want to look hot, but like you’re not trying too hard. It’s available at Isabella Fine Lingerie, $64.

Along those same lines, Stellina also offers an extended version of the cotton PJ shirt with this pajama set. It’s still got a bit of the masculine pajama feel, but it’s tailored to the female form. To me, this ensemble was just made to wake up slowly on a Sunday, drink coffee and do the crossword in bed. Also at Isabella, $98.

Alright, let’s take things to a saucier level. This Only Hearts Chemise boasts lace and a soft pink color—two key elements of any good ultra-feminine look. Plus, it reveals just the smallest glimpse of what’s underneath, to remain mysterious. Sure, you might need an extra blanket or two…or will you? (Wink, wink). Available at G Boutique, $78.

No post on anything even remotely lingerie-related would be complete without an item from Agent Provacateur. And since Chicago is getting our own outpost of this legendary lingerie shop in the next couple of months (stay tuned to Store Adore for more info!), I searched the site’s comprehensive websiteAgent Provacateur, for a must-have pajama piece. Here it is, the simple Cara slip ($280). This slinky little number offers French lace, a saucy slit, and an overall screen siren silhouette.

Now to me, this is the ultimate, ultimate piece. From Huit, this comfy Francoise dress is perfect for all around-the-house occasions. Kick off your heels and throw off that confining skirt and throw this on. Wake up early on a Saturday for coffee and the paper and throw this on. Pull it on for a cozy nights sleep, don it for a 30 Rock marathon, or wear it for a day of around the house tasks. The best part? It translates easily to the outside world. Just throw on some ballet flats and leggings. From Catriona Mackechnie, $135.

Last season’s floral maxi dresses have hardly wilted. Rather, they’re blooming — especially this über-colorful, diaphanous concoction from Diane von Furstenberg. (I’m loving the hippie chick headdress too, though I question the trousers beneath.) Check out the most gorgeous specimens from the runways, and then get a jump on the trend with hot deals here and now…

ON THE RUNWAYS

Top left: Peter Som Top right: Matthew Williamson

Bottom left: Tuleh Bottom right: Vivienne Tam

IN THE BOUTIQUES

1. I love the colors, silhouette and round geometric pattern of this T-Bags Jemma Long Dress in silk jersey, with a touch of Spandex for some give. The dress ties behind the neck, has pleating at waist and an elastic back. Available at Pink Mascara, $400.  Store Adore Exclusive Deal: Take $20 off $100 or more at this boutique!

2. Let loose in the Joie Roll the Dice Dress. The 100% cotton construction and lining, and oversize floral in muted hues make it an easy choice for relaxed afternoons. The halter style ties behind neck, and there back is elastic to insure a proper fit. Available at Angela’s Runway, $324. Store Adore Exclusive Deal: Get 20% off any purchase at this boutique.

3. The sparing but bold use of color in this airy mosaic pattern of this Day Birger et Mikkelsen Mosaic Maxi Dress is a fresh alternative to traditional florals or psychedelic patterns. The empire line is very flattering and the web detailing at the neck pretty. Style with flats, gold bangles and an oversize clutch. Available at Net-a-Porter, $305.

4. It’s okay if you’re not a flower girl. Go with stripes. I like this Voom Santa Fee Long Strapless Dress for its wearability and versatility. It’s 100% silk, and completely lined in 100% cotton, and the pockets add a nice touch. Pull it on over a bathing suit, or do it with a turtleneck come cold weather. Available at Blondette, originally $238, now $119. Store Adore Exclusive Deal: Get $25 off $100 or more at this boutique.

5. Show your innocent side in this Sweetees Floral Halter Dress from LA-based designer Melody Kulp. The keyhole front, halter tie, smocked back panel and scattering of blooms will spread cheer everywhere you stroll. Available at Revolve Clothing, $132.

Runway images courtesy of Style.com.

Shopping is an experience that involves all of your (very refined) senses. It’s not just about the goods; it’s the whole package, baby. (And sometimes, if the packaging itself is superb, it doesn’t even matter what’s inside.) Boston has a handful of boutiques that not only have amazing merchandise, but also amazing merchandising—the kind of spots you hit just so you can luxuriate in the atmosphere. Here are some of my faves:

1. Twilight

Designed by owner Alison Barnard, Twilight’s boudoir-like setting features dark wood floors, plum rugs, ruched taffetta curtains around the fitting areas, fun black and white print wallpaper and upholstery,jet black glass chandeliers and fun shooting star imagery painted high up on the walls (the design echoes the store’s logo, also seen on its cute shopping bags). The festive setting is perfect for the party dress-focused inventory.

2. First Date

Owned by two super-cute sisters who grew up in town, First Date embodies the spirit of the pulled together PYT with a preppy sensibility, but a trend-conscious attitude. The clear blue walls provide the perfect backdrop for all the fun outfits, which hang on racks and shelving that might resemble your very own closet (or the ones you’ve drooled over in Hold Everything catalogs). The sofa, with its trellis-print cushion and hot pink pillows, makes the perfect place to lounge while watching the date movies playing on the flat panel TV. Who says the ‘burbs are boring?

3. Lazuli Jewelry

If you’re looking for a solid selection of modern jewelry, but don’t feel like pawing through the afterthought pieces so often placed at the register, hit Lana Barakat’s Lazuli Jewelry showroom. Housed in an office building on Copley Square, you can stop in sans appointment for a pretty view of the city and a pop of color. The bold colors are enough to perk anyone out of a midday slump. Plus, we guarantee you can get your holiday shopping done early, both for your BFFs and your guy friends that can pull off a piece of silver.

4. French Lessons

Gilda Tunney stocks her heavenly mini-chain, French Lessons (in chi-chi suburbs like Wellesley and Hamilton) with delectable fashions from the likes of DVF, Milly, and Nanette Lepore. But in addition to these fashionista staples, what we love about the boutiques is the decor: baby pink shelves set against romantic black and white wallpaper, curlicue chandeliers, mirrored vanities, stretched canvases with prints of Audrey Hepburn, oversize and ornate mirrors and even a leopard-print chaise. It’s as though we’ve died and gone to Tiffany’s.

5. Plum Produce

I may not eat my vegetables, but I sure like to look at them at Plum Produce. Barbara Lynch’s tiny shop is the kind of spot that might just turn a meat-eater into a dedicated organic vegetarian. The offerings are the art of the earth. I find myself imagining that if I purchased these edible treasures, I could undoubtedly create a masterpiece in the kitchen. And, if I’m not in the cooking sort of mood, I go in to gather inspiration for my dream kitchen. Someday, sigh.

Meredith and her handsome new husband, Daniel, fled NYC over Labor Day Weekend to visit me and my family on Cape Cod. We hung out on the beach, ate grilled tuna and homemade ice cream, and, of course, hit the shops in Provincetown. Meredith’s fave? Marc by Marc Jacobs on Commercial Street. Look how happy she is!

After browsing the fun selection of jewelry — chunky rings of lucite and rhinestones, enameled daisy pendants and sparkly bangles — we settled on plastic, leopard cuff bracelets for just $10 each (Meredith’s treat!). Meredith wore hers the next day with her Frezii Maxi Dress. (Get one for yourself with an exclusive Store Adore 20% discount at South Moon Under, or try a similar style by Gypsy at Intuition, where you can also take advantage of a 20% off Store Adore deal.)

In addition to Provincetown, there are free-standing Marc by Marc Jacobs boutiques in NYC, Boston, San Francisco, Savannah, Chicago, and L.A. If you can’t swing by, there are plenty of pieces available online. Here are five of our favorite styles, and some are even on sale!

1. Reese and Gwyneth are doing the aviator thing - you should too! At $98, these Rimless Aviator Sunglasses from South Moon Under are a steal. If you spend $100 or more at this site, you can get 20% off, compliments of Store Adore!

2. A rainy day has never been so sunny in this Canvas Rain Coat, from Net-A-Porter, on sale for $316.80, reduced from $528.

3. We adore these Patent Platform Sandals, $247.50, reduced from $495, available at Pink Mascara. Wear ‘em bare right now and with tights a little later. Don’t forget to enter promo code “adore” at checkout if you buy anything at full price!

4. Wear this Brush Viva Organza Dress, $458, out at night as is, or do it at the office over a turtleneck. Available at Chick Downtown.

So it’s that weird time of year, right? I know I shouldn’t be scooping up every single strappy dress and pair of shorts that I see on sale (but it’s oh so hard!). Rather, I should be putting money towards my new fall wardrobe, so I can stock up on all of the looks that are circled in my copy of the 10 pound September Vogue. But while the displays at my favorite stores are fall-focused, the weather is still summery, and it’s always been hard for me to buy sweaters, boots and slacks when the sun is beating down outside.

So until that first crisp breeze flows in, knocking the first leaves off the trees and pulling me straight towards the sweaters, I’m stuck in a buyer’s limbo. What’s an obsessed shopper to do?

I’ve been stocking up on accessories. From bangles to baubles, from cuffs to clutches, I’ve been filling my jewelry box and purse shelf with pieces that range from timeless to trendy. I love that they’re giving my outfits a boost as the sun shines, but will still stay in the lineup as the cool weather closes in.

So in honor of my increased accessory collection, I’m giving you my top five best accessory stores in Chicago. Whether you need silk scarves, felt fedoras or glittering gems, these are can’t-miss, won’t-fail, I-need-something-fast-on-the-way-to-this-important-event kinds of stores.

1. Store B

This quiet, unassuming vintage store is my top spot for accessory shopping. Of course, I’ll comb through the clothing too, but I almost always leave with an accessory. A few faves: a 1940s black patent leather wallet, a 1950s sparkly costume brooch, a purple 1980s oversized clutch, and a timeless Burberry scarf. Everything here is cleaned and in near-mint condition, so you don’t have to do the whole clean-and-repair bit when you bring it home. With designers pulling inspiration from nearly every decade, Store B is the perfect stop for Fall/Winter ‘08 accessories.

2. Bess and Loie

Every time I head into this West Loop accessory haven, I discover a new designer, thanks to the utterly in-the-know owner, Allyson Holleb. Iscov produces innovative yet totally affordable purses, and I love how Dautore has taken relaxed bags to the next level. They’ve also got old favorites like Hayden-Harnett and Zina Eva. The store is quaintly decorated and comes stocked with a big bowl of candy, which helps keep up shopping stamina as you model bag after bag in front of the mirror.

Dautore Celeste Handbag, $498.

3. Stitch

If luxurious accessories with zero pretensions are your bag, then Stitch is your shop. Walking into the store is like walking into your chic-est friend’s home, except this time, you can take it all with you when you leave! There’s a wide variety in here — handbags to watches to furniture to art — but I stop in for the simple jewelry, cute wallets and to-die clutches. LA-based designer Adina has gorgeous, minimalist necklaces that look bright and airy in the summer, but add a little extra oomph to any winter outfit. Same with pieces from Roka. I’m also a fan of I love this red Montacatini wallet, which I prefer to carry as a purse. It’s just too cute to hide away.

Montecatini wallet, $94.

4. The Silver Room

Any good Wicker Park-ian makes weekly stops into The Silver Room. Not only for its regular after-hours events, or its commitment to local artisans, but because they store has a super-stellar selection of jewelry, sunglasses, hats, wallets, card holders — pretty much any accessory your heart desires. I’ve spent hours in here with friends, modeling earrings, fedoras and shades. Despite the name, there’s much more than just silver jewelry here. Gold, copper, gems and even feathers are equally represented. Here’s a pair of earrings from one of the store’s top lines, Haji Couture, whoichworks primarily with feathers. I’m not sure they’re up my style alley, but aren’t they beautiful?!

5. Art Effect

This Lincoln Park store is just bursting at the seams with so many cute things, I never leave empty-handed. While it’s perfect for scooping up a cute new top, grabbing a baby/wedding shower gift or picking up a new piece of art for your freshly painted kitchen, it’s also an accessory hotspot. That’s by design, as the owner opened Art Effect over twenty years ago as a shop for “wearable art.” The jewelry selection ranges from dainty to fun (think Saundra Messinger and Swallow), the handbag selection features both artistic tote bags and Orla Kiely shoulder bags, and there are even oodles of accessories for your humble abode. But lately I’ve been coming back for the hats. Here’s a gray felt Cloche hat that is on my to-buy list:

Gray Felt Cloche hat, $48

SPOTTED: Alexandra Ryan

OCCUPATION: Professional organizer and closet coach

TREND: Zipper jeans

Last week, I worked on a closet makeover story for the Boston Globe Sunday Magazine with Alexandra Ryan of Show Me Style. We spent several days together, lugging bins up stairs, discarding pilled sweaters circa 1985, and talking about how one goes about de-cluttering their closet and fine-tuning their wardrobe. She has some great tips, which I’d love to share in a separate post, but here I want to talk about Alexandra’s jeans. Super skinny with a zipper, they fanned out over her feet and gold metallic thongs ($9 at Target!), to provide the perfect peek-a-boo of her ankle. She took this potentially tacky 80s trend and made it totally modern, with its long length and glam but easy shoe. (The last time I wore zippered jeans, they were cropped at the ankle and paired with Reeboks and thick socks.) Alexandra, I love your look!

You don’t need me to find you denim with zippers. But I will show you five other edgy but elegant items that incorporate zipper detailing.

1. Betsey Johnson Tayla Zipper Pump in camel, $230, at Revolve. Brings a bit of edge to the office. 

2. Rory Beca Collared Top with Zipper in sparkle, $330, at Singer 22. It does demure while hinting at something more.

3. LnA Zipper Leggings in marigold, $99, at eLuxury. The season’s “it” piece, available in lots of brights.

4. KA New York Silk Zipper Jumper in lipstick red, on sale for $116.70 at Shopbop. Go naked underneath, or add leggings and long sleeves.

5. Leg Avenue Biker Back Knee Highs, $35.02 at ASOS. Pull ‘em on over colored opaque tights in a color and add booties.

Could there be more tailored vests happening this season? I’d like to skip the boring layering-over-a-striped-shirt situation I’ve seen all over and go straight for a completely unexpected mix–-like design doyenne Trina Turk’s Franz tweed vest ($278, layered over the Laurette silk blouse, $228), covered with gorgeous roses. Wonderfully French, and not just because the model’s wearing a quasi-beret. (Berets: also suddenly everywhere.) Turk has boutiques in NYC, LA and Palm Springs, or check her site for boutiques that carry her.

There’s a new It Girl n town, and she’s rocking amazing boots on the cover of Vanity Fair. Yep, Carla Bruni, France’s first lady–half pop star, half haute society –knows it: the riding boot and the biker boot have been flirting with each other the last couple of winter seasons. I couldn’t be happier than to see them collide. A great example is Frye’s chunky-yet-refined black leather Dorado riding boots, available in-store and online (in half sizes, no less) from LA trendwatchers Kitson ($458).

I’ve long feared purple–after a high-school love of the color, I’ve pretty much steered clear of it. But I think this season’s grey-steeped tones of aubergine might finally get me to reconsider the hue usually associated with Halloween and Barney–specifically, this Vena Cava Taj silk dress in graded tones. The low back is genius, and I do have an October wedding to go to. Available from Shopbop for $550.

I swoon for great, classic menswear pieces that have crossed over into lady wardrobes, so I’m all about these brilliant Frank Oxfords ($129) from Lower East Side, NYC’s eclectic Dolce Vita, in-store and online. Skip the black and go for burgundy–-the patina will be sublime. I’m seeing knee-high argyle socks with these puppies and maybe a tweed skirt. And to grit it all up, a leather jacket. Speaking of which…

I’m not sure what it is that I love so much about this Grai leather jacket ($875)from Williamsburg, Brooklyn’s Woodley & Bunny Clothier. Maybe it’s the fact that it’s tailored at the back but drapey and slouchy in the front, or there’s that terrific look-at-me button… It reminds me of the wonderfully casual way Italians have of throwing on leather and making it look like they’ve slept in it–in a good way.  Find it at online style collective Refinery29 Shops.

Fall fashion goes everywhere–from Mad Men’s early 60s to Victorian excess to that well-televised rich-schoolgirl style. For me, the most exciting thing about the fall is the resurgence of 90s styles. I’m not sure why, really–they’re more androgynous and less sexy and “pretty” than what we’re used to, but there’s something about a pegged jean, crop top and tough boots that feels new and fresh–maybe because we haven’t seen them recently (while styles of other recent decades have recycled themselves in rapid succession). Here are the five new trends (most with a 90s twist) that I’m most excited to see and wear this fall.

1. Looser Jeans

The reign of the skin-tight skinnies is coming to an end–I’ve been seeing a looser, easier cut everywhere from shop windows to paparazzi snaps. From worn, deconstructed denim to pegged “boyfriend” jeans, these styles are all about comfortable, effortless style. A tighter top or fitted blazer with interesting accessories dresses them up.

ABOVE: Joe’s Jeans Provocateur in Huston ($171) available at Revolve Clothing, an online all-star with one of the best denim selections on the web.

2. Combat Boots

Okay–lets call them modified combat boots; these hardcore styles have been all over fall runways. I like the edgy, richly detailed look of these L.D. Tuttle Bard boots ($765), from one of L.A.’s trendiest shops, Creatures of Comfort. Or, make like Daisy Lowe and go for the originals–Dr. Martins, paired with a short skirt and tights, or fitted jeans for an updated look.

3. Menswear

When I first started hearing that dresses would be “out” this fall, I thought it was ridiculous. After all, when you’re trying to look our best for a special day or night, it’s usually not a pair of trousers you reach for. Now, after seeing armies of NYC gals in the same uniform–slouchy, colorful dresses and flats, I’m ready for something tougher and more structured. The People’s Jacket fro Les Praires des Paris ($448), available at super-stylish e-shop La Garconne, is perfectly cut and would look sharp with crisp black slacks, or maybe even a dress.

4. Leather Pants, Dresses and Skirts

They’ve been gone so long, it’s about time they came back–and those shiny PVC-esque leggings that are everywhere now are paving the way. I’m talking about leather pants–not to mention skirts and dresses. For me, any leather garment (jackets excluded) should be absolutely skin tight, like this leather and knit cowl-neck dress ($760) from Helmut Lang, available at indie-cool Oak.

5. Plaids

I’m sure you’ve already heard a bit about this one, but I’d be remiss not to mention plaid. It’s been showing itself for the last few seasons in dribs and drabs, but this fall is truly the season for flannel’s comeback. Go for a neat, well-tailored look so that you don’t look like you stole a frat boy’s favorite top. This reverse seam shirt ($158) from button-down expert Steven Alan, fits the bill.

In downtown Manhattan, the ripe market of indie design keeps things rich and fresh no matter what the season’s taste—but it is pre-fall, and trends abound like soon-to-be-fallen leaves. Taking a look at NYC (and online at New York-beloved e-boutiques), I’m noticing a slant toward easy luxury: simple dressing with heavy impact, accomplished on easy silhouettes with the addition of gorgeous details and new everyday standards.

1. Shirt Dresses

Always a staple of any closet, shirtdresses are sohotrightnow. Flannel weekend styles and tuxedo work-appropriate designs appear in equal measure. In the Lower East Side, Lola y Maria offers the cheeky Walk of Shame shirtdress by Red Toe Nails ($236), an affordable alternative to this amazing grey henley, shown above (be still, my heart!) by Martin Margiela from La Garconne ($395). Taking us back to 1994 (right up my alley), Leelush has the Dace shirtdress ($184), in the same family as Brooklyn Industries‘ blue plaid shirtdress ($108).

2. Drummer-boy jackets

I first spotted the drummer-boy thing on the runway, and it’s diffusing all over the place in jackets for fall. Heading up the trend is, of course, Urban Outfitters, with a BDG jacket ($88) sets the stage. Anna Thomas’ Carnaby Jacket at Elizabeth Charles (shown above, $919) gets a bit pricier, but keeps to the simpler silhouette with the requisite piping and epaulet-style belt. Finally, Sargent Pepper’s daughter Stella McCartney presents what she calls the Dressmaker coat at Intermix (regularly $2,375, Store Adore price, $2,325)—a truly stunning investment with a double-breasted closure that’s straight off Paul’s album cover. For New Yorkers psyched about the military trend, visit Johnson, a shop wih a style that always runs that way, for wool blazers and coats come colder weather.

3. Little Blue Dresses

So obvious, it’s almost unnoticeable: the LBD has turned blue this year. As a blue-eyed girl, I’m thrilled—from the simple over-the-head standards to shiny cocktail dresses, I’m seeing my favorite color packing racks of silk, cotton and wool everywhere I turn my head. Shelly Steffee’s belted dress starts it off with a look perfect for work; moving a little farther into evening comes Crispin & Basilio’s belted dress from Otte ($436); and for evening functions, Plum’s Chloe & Reese strapless cocktail dress (regularly $378, Store Adore price $322) is a flirty drink of water. For weekend brunches into October, Plum’s Thayer navy minidress (shown above; regularly $258, Store Adore price $220) has me shivering with delight.

4. Ruffles Galore

It started in the spring and continues bigtime into fall: we’re all getting ruffled. Whether it’s a cascading ripple effect or a simple attachment to the bodice of a jumper, ruffles are the freshest embellishment: Azaleas‘ nu Collective blouse (shown above, $160) is a great alternative to the cami under blazers; while Coco and Delilah’s Shumaq ruffle dress ($216) is a must-have way past holiday time—especially in this unusual green hue. Lola y Maria offers a silk ruffle-neck dress by Prospect 44 ($290), not too over-the-top; and in perfect form, Joie hits a home run with this silk ruffle blouse at Otte ($195).

5. Tiny leather jackets

Last year I said I wanted a Joey Ramone jacket; I guess designers heard me, ’cause little leather numbers taunt me from every window! They ain’t cheap, and they’re completely drool-worthy; not a good combo for working girls, but there you have it. I love the 50’s take on this Lerario Beatriz piece at La Garconne ($984); my girl Catherine Malandrino did a bomber-style for fall, available online at trendcatcher Shopbop ($795); and Intermix abounds with to-die-for shrunken jackets, like this one from Mike & Chris (shown above; regularly $890, Store Adore price $840). Good luck passing these babies by—I need blinders like nobody’s business.