District L

It’s mid-August. You know what that means, don’t you? Time to start thinking about my birthday presents!

I can empathize; It’s no easy task. As a footwear aficionado in the industry, it can be difficult to predict my desires from week to week – especially during this period of seasonal transition. And yes, I agree… There should be an easier way to do this.

Interestingly enough, people don’t register for birthday gifts – but if they did, I’d open my registry at Casadei, La Petite Cave, and United Nude. Just…hypothetically speaking.

My birthday is only two short weeks away from NY Fashion Week, welcoming the perfect opportunity for early-autumn attire additions. Keeping that in mind...

I can declare with the utmost conviction that the United Nude Spat boot would not only create the perfect foundation for my F’11 wardrobe, but also be a hit in Lincoln Center. In dark brown calf leather and tweed, the tall-shafted boot combines equestrian elegance with femme fatale.

Casadei, the more subtle assassin, maintains a sharp appearance with its Blade collection. Towering knife-like stilettos will satisfy my need for a sleek, sexy shoe, as well as provide the feeling of security during late-night treks back to my apartment.  Isn’t multitasking fun?

And if you’re looking to give the gift of experience, a few bottles of POP Pink Champagne might just do the trick…

Post by Amanda LaMela

Maybe it’s just the August impulse – the unwarranted “back-to-school” mentality that takes years to ditch. But it seems as if the recent objects of my fashion attraction are becoming more buttoned-up, buckled down and polished over.

Adding one subtle, yet unexpected element is the key to achieving an appearance of academia without looking like a 7^th grade substitute teacher. Score some easy extra-credit with asymmetrical cinching, faux-contrast collars, or mixed-media paneling.

This isn’t high school -- You are no longer graded on mere “participation.” So shut up, put your hand down, and take a look at our cheat sheet below:

Lanvin Contrast Collar Dress

Halston Heritage Jumpsuit

Reese Hudson Oversize Clutch

Goodone Backless Dress

Lanvin Stacked Heel

Vladimir Karaleev Sleeveless Dress

Proenza Schouler PS1 Shopping Bag

Casadei Metallic Stiletto

Images by Farfetch.com

Post by Amanda LaMela

No. 21

Crisp, yet relaxed tailoring in clean, monochromatic palettes: New York’s Resort collections are challenging the definition of elegance. Evolving from current bohemian street-styles, industry insiders predict a refreshing shift within the 70s trend – a gentle pull towards body-skimming looks. In an abstract journey from sand to city, our bags will be packed with wide-leg pants, elongating dresses, and contoured booties.

Barbara Bui

Casadei

No. 21

Nicholas Kirkwood

Willow

Post by Amanda LaMela

Images by Style.com, Farfetch.com