Pants Party

All summer long, I've been living in dresses. They're comfortable, easy and pretty, perfect for hot temps. But as fall approaches, I'm eagerly anticipating all the cool pants I've been seeing in magazines. There are so many trends to try: bold color, edgy prints, metallics and leather-like details. Here are a few pairs -- by Current/Elliott, Paige Denim, Mother, Superfine, 7 for All Mankind, Genetic Denim, Paige Denim and alice + olivia -- all found on shopbop.com.

Photos from here. 

Black & White

I love a good black and white look year-round, but there's something quite refreshing about the combination in the summer. And if it's carried out in stripes, chevron or another graphic print, all the better! Here are a few pieces, via Pinterest, I'm digging now.

Photos from here. 

Summer Dressing

The temps are sweltering, I'm eight months pregnant -- and I have no intention of wearing anything but sleeveless, knee-length dresses for the rest of the summer! These pretty frocks, all from Piperlime.com, in their refreshing hues and perky prints, are giving me major inspiration.

Photos from here. 

White Now

While I happily wear white all year long, there's something especially refreshing about it when temperatures rise. So I was excited to see a fantastic roundup of white clothes on Shopbop. Here are a few sleek dresses -- by Club Monaco, Susana Monaco and Tibi -- that I'd love to wear all summer long.

Photos from here. 

Fun in the Sun

I'm excited about the Trina Turk capsule collection that's just come out at Banana Republic. The poppy prints and sunny colors are perfect for summer. I'd love to wear a bright maxidress and stack of bangles while sipping cocktails poolside, even if I'm not in Palm Springs!

Photos from here. 

Perfectly Simple

If I had to choose one decade that's most informed my personal style, it has to be the '90s. Minimalism and simplicity have always felt right to me -- easy but also elegant. So I was excited to see Gap's nod to clean lines and streamlined shapes in its "Miss Minimalist" looks. Here are my favorite pieces. All I'd need to do is add a great pair of shoes and maybe a little necklace or bracelet, and I'd be ready for the day!

Photos from here.

Champagne Dreams

Is anyone else craving a little glamour today? Then let's lust after these incredible gowns in Marchesa's spring 2012 collection. Fluttery, frothy and feminine, these dresses are utterly gorgeous. If I had one, I think I could find a pretty fantastic event to wear it to!

Photos from here. 

Art-Inspired Style

On Saturday, my husband and I joined some friends and coworkers out at a trendy bar for an event. It was a fun time, and it made me realize how much I've been hibernating this winter. So I think a night out soon is called for, and what better inspiration to draw from than a twinkling night sky by Vincent Van Gogh? Vibrant blues and glimmering golds tempered by a bit of black seem great makings for a fantastic night on the town.

* Starry Night Over the Rhone

* Jumpsuit

* Heels

* Bracelet

* Earrings

* Coat 

Art-Inspired Style

This holiday season, I've been drawn to metallics -- gleaming silvers and rich golds. I've used them in my Christmas decorating, and they got me thinking about the artist Gustav Klimt. While The Kiss is certainly his most popular work, I'm inspired by his portrait Adele Bloch-Bauer I. The gold and geometric shapes seem the perfect starting point for a glittery New Year's Eve look. 

* Dress

* Shoes

* Bracelet

* Clutch

Art-Inspired Style

This summer I put together a few outfits inspired by Georgia O'Keeffe paintings in a guest post for the lovely Jenny in Ohio. But I think the amazing artist's work can also be the starting point for some fabulous holiday looks. I'd happily rock these outfits at an office party, a big bash with friends and a family get-together this season.

* Black Iris

* Top

* Sweater

* Ring

* Clutch 

* Heels

* Red Cannas

* Dress

*Earrings

* Bracelet

* Blazer

* Sandals

* Handbag

* Purple Petunia

* Dress

* Sweater

* Pumps

* Brooch

* Clutch

Color Cue: Emerald

Green isn't typically the first hue I gravitate toward when decorating or choosing an outfit. However, I'm liking the rich jewel tone lately, especially in these Pinterest finds.

Photos from here, here, here, here and here. 

Ballet Style

It was so much fun dressing up as Black Swan for Halloween this weekend. And I realized the ballet aesthetic doesn't just appeal to me as a costume. In one way or another, I've always admired the look of dancers: their strength and grace, as well as their style. I love ballet flats, swishy skirts, off-the-shoulder tops and wrap sweaters. I like pale pinks, soft whites and pretty grays, and anything that shows off the collarbone or back. So gorgeous!

Photos from here and here. 

Seeing Red

I live in a big college town. The university is responsible for a lot of energy and forward-thinking in the city -- and quite a few fun events. I'm going to the homecoming football game with a group of girlfriends tomorrow, and tonight my husband and I are going to a red tie gala. I couldn't find a red dress for the occasion, but I did nab a black sequined dress and a hot pair of red shoes. I'm going to keep my accessories understated so the shoes really pop. I can't wait for the weekend to begin!

* Dress

* Bracelet

* Shoes

* Clutch

* Necklace

On Trend

I'm not the trendiest girl. Over the years, I've learned what styles I prefer and which look best on me. However, I'm always eager to learn what the fashion trends are each fall and spring, and I typically pick a few to incorporate into my wardrobe. This fall, there are quite a few I'm loving! And I was surprised to find nearly all of them represented at Zara. But what I think I like most is that the pieces -- no matter how on-trend they are -- all still look like Zara. They prove you can be current but still yourself. Here are a few that pick up some of fall's best trends:

Dots

Minimal

Lace

Color blocking

Navajo prints

Neon

Photos from here. 

A Softer Side

Sarah Jessica Parker is often touted as a style icon for her fearless fashion choices. And I definitely appreciate the sense of adventure and personality she brings to dressing. But these photos of the actress through the years in Vogue show a slightly softer, yet still high-style, side to her. I love them!

Photos from here.