New at Barney’s, for $365, the Red Albert Mayles sunglasses from Barton Perreira.  At the same time, red sunglasses by Thierry Lasry in a magazine and way cute Super brand shades retro style shades in another.  Got me thinking, the Wayfarer is big-time back, albeit with lots more color and lots more funk.  Some samples below.  Links to buy from each pic. Some of these, well, just here cuz they make me smile.

When you know something is going to be BIG next season, then you can scope out the sales racks for great deals on what’s about to be in style.  Especially in a “Transitional Weather” market like Charlotte, where we can really stretch a season.  One HOT color coming this fall is camel / caramel ….an extension of the neutral trend we have now.   Camel Hair coats, suedes, leathers, jackets, pants, silk.  And the Ralph Lauren store has by FAR the best options in stock now, perfect for fall but even more perfect if they go on sale in a few months.  It’s worth checking out them just so you can look for the knock offs.  A camel suede slip dress,  several gorgeous and expensive camel leather jackets, a camel jersey one shoulder dress with leather accents.  Fingers crossed these go on sale.

Not many of us can wear leggings without a loooong top or tunic.  These taupe and grey lightweight denim leggings from BCBGMaxAzria look surprisingly crisp and chic and will add a fresh note to your spring cardi’s and short dresses.  Clunky, chunky sandals or flats for the full JackieO.  Not cheap, maybe someone will knock them off, Hurry.  $98 or $118.

Jimmy Choo has released a new design retailing at almost $2,500 - because the heels LIGHT UP when you dance.  (Or I guess when you stomp around so people will take note of your flashy, flashing, $2,500 soles).  Electrifyingly ridiculous, but I know there is a drag queen out there somewhere for whom these will be worth every penny.  You go girl.

Nautical stripes are so mega-big for spring and summer. Here are some options from Urban Outfitters that won’t break the bank (under $50 and a couple on sale for $19.99) and will add a little pizzaz to your spring tee and jeans. Try a striped t under a striped cardi, just make sure they contrast a lot. We’ll be covering more pricey designer options when they arrive at the stores in the next week or so. Click the pic to get to the cardigan or click here to go to UO site.

You clearly need something clear this summer.  Shoes, jewelry, even the accents on the new Prada bags have this crystal / lucite motif….the ultimate NEUTRAL really.  Talk about goes with everything.   The clear “crystal” ball necklace shown at left can be yours at Coplon’s or perhaps the one below from CFrancis designs I do like these Prada runway shoes for summer.  What will probably sell out before you can even get there?  The pre-order crystal trimmed bags, also by Prada. For photos, click more

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GAP introduces new UTILITY line, in lock-step with spring trend forecasts.

Patrick Robinson continues to add sense & sensibility to the Gap, this time with an affordable and stylish take on the spring trend for Utility wear.  Neutral colors, clean lines and workman-like detail are all hot trends for this spring (check this trend  and others out at style.com here).  Gap’s new collection, 20+ pieces you can check out here on their site gap.com, is priced between $40 and $80 and fits the bill.  Ok, the perfect leather jacket is $298, and there are some pieces that are simply utilitarian, but it’s worth a shop.  click more for pics. (more…)