rugged, yet refined.

(Dolce & Gabbana, Style.com)

One of my favorite Fall 09 accessory trends is the tough love necklace: chunky chains mixed with delicate pearl, pretty rhinestones, and floral gems. As seen in Dolce & Gabbana and Marni Ready-to-Wear, I found some affordable versions to show a pretty side that’s rough around the edges.

Glass-Pearl/Chain Torsade, $45.90
White House Black Market

Mixed Media Necklace, $85
Ann Taylor

Multi-chain necklace, $89
Banana Republic

And now for the best deals from Forever 21 – an clutch source for cheap thrills.

Cluster Chain Bead Necklace, $12.80

Flower Pin Pearl Necklace, $10.80

 
Clustered Pearls and Hearts, $12.80

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searching for: a yellow cardigan

I don’t know about you, but some of my dresses are screaaaming for a cardigan. A little extra coverage never hurt anyone!

(American Eagle, originally $44)

I just have to throw it out there that I was obsessed with this dress when I saw it online earlier in the summer. It’s just the cutest little paisley print, and has the perfect dark blue and white coloring that screams summer. It even screamed, “Pair me with a red belt and you could wear me to your Fourth of July party!” It screamed a lot of things at me! I just had to have my hands on it.

When I received it, however, it didn’t fit exactly right. But, I still loved it for all that it was and saw the potential. Except now every time I try it on, it’s screaming something else: “Pair me with a cardigan! Yellow, perhaps?”

From a simple ShopStyle search, I was lost in a sea of yellow cardigans: short-sleeved, flutter-sleeved, prim, slouchy, mustard, neon, bright, pastel. As for price and appeal, I thought this one looked most appropriate (minus the belt!).

(Forever 21, $32)

What do you think of this combination? Any suggestions for my love affair with this dress, and a new addition to make me feel more comfortable in it?

TRENDWATCH: lovebirds

The perfect accessory, centerpiece, or design focal point at a wedding is a little flighty, feathery birdie. I’ve been seeing this trend pop-up in many of my wedding blogs and I think it’s truly adorable. You can use birds as a design inspiration for any or all parts of your special day!

these DIY pinecone lovebirds serve as the perfect cake-topper for this rustic outdoor wedding. (Once Wed)

A perfect peacock pinata makes this reception a knock-out! (The Bride’s Cafe)

set your love free with these beautiful floral arrangements flowing out of open birdcages. (The Bride’s Cafe)

Using your lovebirds in illustration or design on the invitations are a surefire way to ruffle your guests’ feathers outright. The second design is absolutely lovely and the Pigeon theme was used throughout the entire wedding! (The Bride’s Cafe, Green Wedding Shoes)