I’m behind on some things, so I won’t prattle on today. There's a chance I may not get to post tomorrow, but I'll try my best :-)!! I hope you enjoy your day and as always, happy shopping!


CARLOS by Carlos Santana-Sinister-$99.95
Alexander Wang-Metallic tank dress -$340.00
Hanii Y-High Neck Cropped leather jacket-$985.00
Marcia Moran-Smokey Quartz Wood Ring-$125.00
Lelya-Chagrin Snakeskin Clutch-$361.00** LAST DAY
to get 20% off. Enter ARMCANDY coupon code.

It's usually a good idea to pay close attention to the geometry of your outfits. I admire all the structural details of these garments and how they work together. I think in matters of shape, especially the exaggerated silhouettes of the season like the trapeze, it's important to look at balance. A great piece to give many outfits structure and balance is a cardigan or a sweater coat. No, not the ill-fitting one you keep slung over your office chair all year. Something that actually makes you feel great when you wear it! Which brings me to todays post. I love the new styles of cardigans I’ve been seeing.They're sexy and stylish but still very practical. Frump no more avid cardigan-wearers! No excuses. :) The long cardigan by Zac Posen shows you how truly decadent and beautiful knitwear can be. It’s a signature piece on it’s own, as is the lovely bow tied cardigan from Anthropologie. The gorgeous shade of green is perfect for those dreary days of trudging to work in frigid temperatures. The outfit I chose is simple yet chic, and very elegant. The bag is literally the cherry on top, and I love the racer-back blouse with its girly, yet sophisticated ruffles. It is definitely a potential new signature piece for my wardrobe. The True religion jeans had the exact slim fit I was looking for to complete this sleek look. This cardigan by DAY Birger et Mikkelsen is so adorable, I couldn’t resist making it a part of today’s post. It will add just the right amount of sweetness to a dark, glossy pair of waxed finished jeans or look equally smashing paired with a silk skirt and a charming pair of suede kitten heels. I just love it! I think you can wear all these cardigans dressed up or down, and have a blast with all the different combinations. I'd love to see pictures of outfits you guys have gotten from the site, or with pieces that inspired you to buy. Email them to me at: QueenofPreenfashions@gmail.com I also love the letters, so please keep them coming :)! Happy shopping!

True Religion-Billy slim jeans-$185.00
Dolce Vita-Carmen-4 Platforms-$135.95
Anthropologie-Green Bow Cardigan-$168.00
Zac Posen-Woodgrain long cardigan-$950.00
Botkier-Small Bianca Satchel (Cherry)-$495.00**
Madison Marcus-Ruffle Racer Back Tank-$242.00
Kenneth Jay Lane-Domed Resin Ring (Cream)-$100.00
DAY Birger et Mikkelsen-Sarah cropped cardigan-$238.00
------
**receive 20% off this bag until October 31st 2007 !
Use checkout code: ARMCANDY

Addressing two of my favorite trends: the mini dress and the long dress.
I'm a big fan of these fashion forward, sophisticated looks. One is smooth and modern, the other fluid and eclectic. As my mood changes, so do my fashion choices. For the longer dress. the belt is perfect because it brings out the subtle golden hues in the dress and contrasts well with the stunning shade of indigo blue. Wear it empire style—just under your bust, to cover up the smocked portion of the dress. I really like the cutout design and think it will look great over lots of different things. I love both of these dresses so much and made the shoes sexy, and fun choices. I kept the accessories minimal. I like the delicate chain and the pretty colored leather button of the stylish, long necklace. I say for the cream mini dress, keep the neck bare for a beautiful display of your décolletage.

Enjoy! : )


Forever 21-Paisley Dress-$29.80
Asos-Chop Out Corset Belt-$33.23
Brian Atwood Platform Sandal-$625.00
Yarborough Jewelry-Leather Button Necklace-$110.00
Foley + Corinna Handbags- Jet Setter Jr Tote-$492.00**


Leyla-Rose Clutch-$530 **
Grey Ant-Velour Mini Dress-$286.00
Anthropolgie-Goldstone cuff-$38.00
Banana Republic-Thin Gold Hoops-$32.00
Theory Shoes-Sascha open toe boot-$495.00


**use coupon code:ARMCANDY to receive 20% of ANY regular priced handbag at Shopbop.com. Offer is only good until October 31st, 2007!!

Hello lovelies,

I'm working right now, but I just wanted to send you a quick tip. Shopbop.com is having a wonderful sale! From now until 10/31/07 Get 20% Off All Non Sale Handbags at shopbop.com with code ARMCANDY! Happy Halloween :) Get yourself a present, you've been working hard all week and you deserve it!

Fashionably Yours,
Queen of Preen

This wasn't meant to be an actual outfit, just a few things I covet, that is, I want them with my every being! I can’t shop at this very moment, but I have to get these things out of my head, before it explodes. =)

• A stylish hat
• An over sized clutch
• A versatile waist belt
• An edgy signature piece
• A cropped leather jacket
• An amazing mini dress
• The perfect pair of jeans
• Modern looking leggings
• A figure enhancing trench
• A feminine top in a soft color
• A sexy patent leather ankle boot

ASOS-Asymmetric Trilby-$26.58
I’d wear this hat with everything from a McQ tee shirt, boots and skinny jeans to a tailored pair of pants and a silk blouse. As seen on the likes of Victoria Beckham and Sienna Miller.

Goldenbleu-Tiffany Clutch (Amethyst)-$487.00
This pretty patent clutch is in a deep enough shade of purple that I can wear it with almost everything.

Motif 56-Jamie Belt-$145.00
Prove you have a black belt in fashion literally, with this eye catching leather waist belt. The studs make it so unique. I love that you can wear it with everything, from graphic tees, to dresses, to coats. I’m all for quality items that will get lots of mileage in my closet.

Juicy Couture-“Dirty Glam” Bracelet-$128.00
This is punk and pretty in one perfect multi-strand bracelet.

S.W.O.R.D-Fur Collar Argenta Jacket-$863.00
I love a jacket that gives me options. The fur is removable. I’d wear it with over a party dresses and with ankle boots and extra long leggings. Instant style in a great fitting jacket? I'll take it.

Foley + Corinna-Sequin 3/4 Sleeve Dress-$506.00
Can you say icon? That’s what you’ll be known as in all your circles once you’re spotted in it. Sigh. The sheen of the sequins and perfect silhouette will have you aglow every time your wear it. Honestly, I can’t decide which color I like the most, but I think I’m leaning towards the black and silver one.

Rock & Republic-“KRT” jean-$242.00
These “KRT”’s are great, I have them on right now actually.
If you’ve ever had trouble finding jeans that are long enough for you try this brand on for size. Their inseams average at least a 33” for most of their jeans. Another reason I love them is because they always seem to have the perfect color blends, amount of stretch, and they make me look like I actually have a butt. Even if you’re not tall and or leggy, these jeans just have a great fit. I get mine hemmed depending on which inseam they are. Don’t be afraid to get your jeans hemmed professionally, it’s SO worth it!

Rachel Pally-Super long leggings-$94.00
So clean looking. Effortless fashion. Probably the only leggings I’d ever wear, honestly…It’s important to buy quality items of wardrobe staples or things you’ll wear a lot.

Burberry Prorsum-Trench Coat-$3,250.00
So maybe I’ll only ever see this coat of my dreams since it costs more than my first car but I still want it with all my heart. “Ain’t love grand?” I’m kidding.This is definitely a wise investment piece with timeless style that you can wear forever.

Venni Caprice-Ruffle Scoop Neck Top-$59.99
This gorgeous ruffle top is the exact reason why I love shopping Indie designers; quality, and ingenuity. Order this brilliant piece and pair it with everything from high waist trousers and pencil skirts, to your favorite pair of jeans.


Giuseppe Zanotti-Tortoise heel patent boot-$699.00
I don’t know that I actually have words to express the deep and mad love affair I have with practically everything the brilliant Giuseppe designs (get in line sister!) but these boots quite literally take my breath away. I am considering living in my car for a month right now just so I can purchase them. :-) Can you believe that beautiful heel? Divine.

Exciting news! Adasa.com is featuring the Rock and republic shirt I featured in one of my animal print outfits from last week on their front page today! That shirt is so hot, yet another thing I covet. =) Go get it before it's gone, it's a limited style! (Click the top in the screen shot above to go to the page)

Link to my outfit with the R&R top (will open in a new window)

Sometimes (read: rarely), I get letters from lovely people that read the blog and would like an outfit styled for a specific occasion, here's a recent one and my response:

"Dear Queen,

I got invited to my ex boyfriend’s wedding. He’s marrying my ex- friend after only four months of dating. Of course, I want to look hot and I’m not so bitchy that I would wear white, but can you please help me? I’m running out of time. I want to look great for this wedding and it’s only a few weeks away and I don’t even have a date. The only thing I’m looking forward to is the open bar. By the way, the wedding is at sunset and is in Hawaii and I hate purple.

Thanks in advance,

J.L. in Georgia"

Dearest J.L.,

Let us try and look on the bright side: You’re going to sunny Hawaii, and you’re not a bridesmaid! Seriously though, the situation sounds awful, and I commend you on even attending the awkward and hasty nuptials. Sashay right past that husband stealing Jezebel and straight to the bar in this show stopping number by Tricia Fix. I love the crossed strap back and the flowing fabric is such a unique and glamorous print. Pair it with these sexy stiletto heels (They’re not named “Stunner” for nothing!) You can wear the oversized metallic clutch with practically anything. You are going to look smokin’ hot coming and going! Top it all off with this beautiful domed ring, which I am almost positive will outshine the bride’s rock (unless your ex is Donald Trump.) You’ll be sure to look so scorching that your dance card will be filled all evening with bachelors that are actually eligible!

Cheers,

Queen of Preen

Here's the daily outfit, plus three two bonus outfits! I'll be away on Monday so I wanted to leave you with a little something extra this weekend. ;) P.S. Go Bucks !!!



Sigerson Morrison-Red Patent Flats with Stone Accents-$398.95
Forever 21-Studded Bangle and Antique Gold Bangle-$5.80 each
Rock and Republic-"Nirvana" Jeans with red stitching-$207.00
Rock and Republic-O’Rourke Animal Print Top-$209.00
Marc by Marc Jacobs-Softy Overnighter Bag-$548.00
Forever 21-Sateen Black Blazer-$32.80

Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent-Scarf Mini Dress-$224.00
Kenneth Jay Lane-Black Elephant Bracelet-$110.00
Lauren Merkin-Lola Patent Clutch-$225.00
Givenchy-Stiletto Sandals-$638.95


Rock and Republic- "KRT" Jeans (Penny Royal Colour)-$246.00
Marc by Marc Jacobs-Softy Overnighter Bag(Chocolate)-$548.00
Chip & Pepper-Ohio State O-H Tee-$42.00
Maria Bonita Extra-Patent Zipper Bag-$785.00
Forever 21-Dream Catcher Earrings-$4.80
Forever 21- Studded Bangle-$5.80

Everything in the collage is click-able, except the bangles, which can be purchased below!

Kenneth Jay Lane Animal Bangles Kenneth Jay Lane Animal Bangles are perfect in every way. Tiger, white tiger, or cheetah print bracelets accented with 18K gold plating. Hinged with magnetic closure. They look great alone or stacked.

Confession: This sassy trend never gets old to me.Please forgive the late entry, I got a bit carried away. Four outfits and several hours later, can you tell how much I LOVE this trend? :) I had to break this up into two entries to keep myself sane. I won’t bother you with a fashion rant today, hope you enjoy the clothes, and have a happy weekend!

Fashionably Yours,
Queen of Preen

Isabella Fiore-“Wild Thing”Brooke Satchel-$555.00*
*(FREE Isabella Fiore $125 Gift with Purchase of the Handbag)
Karen Zambos Vintage Couture-Jessica Dress-$227.20
MICHAEL Michael Kors-Astor Haircalf Tote-$701.95
Marc by Marc Jacobs- 674141 Mouse Flat-$358.95
Giuseppe Zanotti-Animal Calf Mary-Janes-$599.00
Kenneth Jay Lane-Animal Bangles-62.00 each
Roberto Cavalli- Babydoll top-$1,365.00
Kenneth Jay Lane-Zebra Ring-$66.00
Forever 21-Leopard cardigan-22.80
Forever 21-Cheetah Bangle-$5.80

I am DROOLING over this gorgeous dress, I tell you—it’s love. Can you believe this brilliant shade of blue? Wow! The figure hugging curves of the artful silk fabric will make you feel like a fabulous French starlet. I think, as the weather gets colder, this dress will look darling layered over a thin black turtleneck and paired with boots. With a price tag of $265.00, Cynthia Vincent proves that designer luxury is attainable for budget fashionistas. I know $265.00 isn’t exactly cheap, but in my opinion this dress is so worthy! This outfit is so beautiful in its details and colors, I can’t help but want to keep it all to myself ;).

For now, since it’s not too cold, I’d pair it with these lovely Donna Karan shoes with their stunning mesh detail and this sophisticated yet funky Zambos clutch. How cool is this purse, it is Lucite! It goes with the dress and shoes perfectly without being overly “matchy.” As for the ensemble’s simplicity, I don’t think it needs much more than these two accessories because the dress is quite the work of art on it’s own. I was almost hesitant to make this into an outfit (I’ve had the dress saved since September 15th!) because there are so many different ways to wear it. It can go from work to an evening out with a simple change of accessories. I hope you enjoy this look and as always, I wish you a happy and fruitful day of shopping!

12 Street by Cynthia Vincent-Sketch print dress-$265.00
Donna Karan-874983 Ankle strap shoe-$449.06
Zambos & Siegal-Oval Lucite Clutch-$165.00

Be careful wearing this look to work, you’ll be sure to make everyone green with envy of your impeccable style. This outfit proves that simplicity can absolutely be fashionable and beautiful. Ernesto, Ernesto, Ernesto! You have outdone yourself, my friend. These shoes are so fabulous; I’d be willing to forgo food for a week just to buy them.
Tuck the top inside this great A-line skirt by Top Shop. Cinch the beautiful silk shirt under this ultra cool obi belt for a modern silhouette. I really like the stitching details in the belt. Speaking of details, I love the delicate balloon sleeves of the blouse, so feminine and pretty and the color is so radiant, wow. Finish the look with a zebra cuff by Tasha and a handbag by Isabella Fiore that is truly a work of art. Can you believe the amazing details in these pieces? I covet this ensemble from head to stylish toe.

Ernesto Esposito Shoes-Peep Toe Platform Pump-$535.00
Isabella Fiore Celine “Precious Pleats” Satchel -$695.00**
Mint Jodi Arnold-Balloon Sleeve Blouse-$297.00
Top Shop-Pleated Mid Length Skirt- £32.00
Tasha-Zebra Print Wood Bangle-$48.00
Asos-Stitched Obi Wrap Belt - £12.00
Theory-Besette Top-$180.00



This look is simple but oh so stylish. Again, the details make this a stand out outfit— the vintage inspired ring, the graceful wide leg trousers with their elegant herringbone pattern and pretty gold buttons, the hints of maroon in the leopard and the puff sleeves of the Rebecca Taylor cardigan, the perfect amber tone of the skinny leather belt (I forgot to include it in the collage, see below), and the girly but sophisticated ruffles in the burgundy pumps… Did I mention the cardigan is cashmere AND silk? I don’t think it gets more luxurious than that. I’m so in love with this ensemble.

Rebecca Taylor-Silk and Cashmere Cardigan-$300.00
Loeffler Randall-Estella Ruffle Suede Pump-$375.00
Anthropologie-Tonal Wide Legs-$188.00
Motif 56-Skinny Bronze Belt-$68.00
Shop Suey-Marissa Satchel-$52.00
Judith Jack Oval Ring-$175.00

Motif 56 Skinny Belt in Bronze Wear this high on your waist over top the luxurious cardigan. You'll need this skinny belt by Motif 56 to go with your new high-waisted jeans this season!Metallic Amber genuine leather Motif 56 belt with gold rectangular buckle closure. 100% Genuine leather Small 33'' long, .5'' wide Medium 35'' long, .5'' wide

-------------------------------------------
** This bag is a pre-order item. It is definitely the “It” bag of the season with the delicate individually cut and sewn pleating. It is hand made from the finest and softest leather. Availability: Pre-order Approximate Delivery Date: 11/23/2007 SKU: 74001H-Blk

This post was originally going to be about fall’s sexy new silhouettes for leather jackets, but this dress sidetracked me. I like all these pieces equally (I never post anything I don’t), but as you read on you’ll see that I am quite fixated on a specific item in the ensemble, haha. I know the pattern might be a little retro for some, but I’ve been listening to a lot of Steely Dan lately. I digress…

This dress by Tibi seriously, makes me happy. Yes, it is actually possible to purchase ‘joy’ contrary to popular belief. Kidding; It’s easy to fantasize all the places I will wear it by just looking at it. The Mike and Chris jacket is just splendid—the best leather jacket I’ve seen this Fall. Speaking of gorgeous leather, the juicy purse is just a great bag to have. I love the rich brown color and the gold heart lock detail is so adorable. It was recently placed on sale which is always music to my ears!

I’ve actually had dreams about these brilliant Pedro Garcia boots. I think they are absolutely beautiful. They look great with this dress and I think they look equally great over jeans, with anything black, or with leggings tucked into them. I’m not usually a huge fan of gray, particularly in footwear, but these boots are just too chic to pass up!

Finally, the finishing touch is a great pair of classic gold hoops by Nordstrom--an accessory no fashionista should be without. It goes without saying that these pretty earrings will get lots of use in your wardrobe.

Happy Shopping!

Juicy Couture-Abbie Hobo- Was $350.00 On Sale! $245.00
Mike&Chris-Grant Leather Jacket-943.00
Pedro Garcia-Xaide Suede Boot-600.00
Nordstrom-Classic Gold Hoops-$32.00
Tibi-Scoop Neck Dress-$370.00

I really like this outfit! I know I say that with every outfit, but it's true. I never post anything I wouldn't wear, and if I could, I'd be wearing this outfit out tonight. The rich fabric of the Miu Miu top, the super soft leather of the amazing jacket, the artfully designed hidden platform pumps, the uncommon design of the scalloped ring, and the stylish juxtaposition of leathers and printed fabrics of the over sized L.A.M.B. bag all make this outfit very glamorous.

I'm sure no one cares, but it has to be said: I’m not usually an advocate of leggings (unless they’re tucked into boots) but I love these extra long leggings, plus they provide the perfect polish to the sleek look I was aiming for with this ensemble.

L.A.M.B Handbags-Signature Carlisle Large Clutch-425.00
Anthropologie-Brown Scalloped Cocktail Ring-98.00
Yaya Aflalo-Vapor leather jacket-675.00**
Ash-Pumps-Open Toe ‘Ryan’ Pump-150.00
Splendid-Modal Leggings-$57.00
Miu Miu-Silk Top -$920.00


Wear it well!
Bon weekend,

**The beautiful Yaya jacket is sold out everywhere, and I'm not surprised. As often as we're in coats during the 6 colder months, it's always exciting to find something so unique and fashionable to wear. I think coats make a statement, they're part of the ensemble too! I'm pretty sure Shopbop.com will replenish their stock due to the popularity of the item, so save this link if you're interested in this lovely jacket.

Whether it's violet, mauve or wine, purple is making its triumphant return to the fashion throne this fall.

Purple has long been on my fashion radar as an expressive color that is faceted enough to add excitement to any wardrobe. So many shades, so little time. The runway looks pictured above are as follows: Emilio Pucci, Malandrino, DKNY, Derek Lam, and Malandrino again. I picked quite a few purple items that I hope you will love. There were so many pieces I loved; it was tough to decide which items to make into outfits. I hope you'll find something special for your wardrobe here. To refresh everyone's memory on how this site works, all the clothing items are click-able. Everything featured here is available for purchase. Just click on the item(s) that pique your interest. Each item will open in a new window for your shopping convenience. If you have trouble finding any of the items you see on the site, please e-mail me, and I will try my best to help you find them. Please note that some of the items from past issues may no longer be available. However, I'm always happy to help you look for items or item alternatives!

Happy Shopping!

Fashionably Yours,

-Queen of Preen




Look 1: This is definitely a look that will get lots of envious stares. In the approaching colder months, this amazing coat will look darling with elbow length leather gloves. Adding gloves will pull the eye to the lovely ruching details on the sleeves. This coat is a statement maker and is sure to keep you looking stylish all season long, even if you just throw it on over sweats when you're running a few errands. I can't be the only person that does that, can I? If you add the bangle with the sweats no one would ever know. Isn't it pretty? I love that gunmetal color. I admire the architecture of all these pieces. Everything is tailored but the fit is fluid and pretty; from the graceful curve of the ballet flats, to the soft silk ruffles of the gorgeous top (which you can dress up or down!) to the pretty sleeves of the coat. I'm officially obsessed!

Catherine Malandrino-High Waist Wide Legs-$295.00
Sigerson Morrison-Jeweled Flats-$399.00
R.J. Graziano-Gunmetal Bangle-$125.00
Shop Suey-Silver Paula Satchel-$50.00
Geren Ford-Ruffle Silk top-$251.00
Tibi-Chrysler Shell Coat-$785.00



Look2: I adore this look as well because it's super stylish without a lot of effort. If you're a dog lover like I am, you'll like this cute tee shirt. I bounce outfit ideas off my dog all the time. He's directly responsible for much of the content you see today. Okay, I'm kidding. I love this outfit and absolutely want every piece of it in my closet now. The trendy fedora picks up the maroon lettering in the tee and the gold shoes offset the gray and maroon theme perfectly. For fun, I went with a super cute olive green Betsey Johnson clutch with great stitching and metal grommet details. The skinny jeans by Paige Denim are so great fitting and are going to get so much use in my wardrobe (Yes, I bought them! Sometimes, I'm a good salesperson to myself haha!) Finally, to add that piece of girly sparkle I must have with every outfit, I chose this beautiful antique inspired Hematite bangle from Nordstrom. If you're wearing this outfit in cooler climates, I'd layer a thin dark brown tee shirt or thermal under the dog tee and you're ready to face the chilly fall days in style.

Betsey Johnson-Vintage Betsey Clutch (Olive)-$161.06
Nanette Lepore-Precocious Pump (Antique Gold)-$332.00
Paige Denim “Blue Heights” Skinny Jeans-$179.00
F21 Heritage 1891-Fluffy Understands Tee-16.00
Bloomingdales- Felt Fedora (Eggplant)-$65.00
Sequin Hinged Crystal Bracelet-$145.00

Why not begin my first day back with a new installment of my site: ‘Splurge of the Week'. Essentially, splurge of the week is that item that I (and hopefully others too) lust after in our dreams…the item that is just out of reach of a realistic budget. I must confess I'm a shoe fanatic and have enough favorites to fill ‘Splurge of the Week' for about 3 years. Albeit, I will try and feature many different types of items, not just shoes. Anyway, back to the shoe!

Be still my heart

I have Jimmy Choo to thank

For designing this gorgeous shoe--

Which has single handedly brought me out of My fashion depression,

and unfortunately inspired This awful poem, but I digress…

It's difficult to go wrong with sexy, metallic, four-inch heels. The light-gold leather and black patent details are delicate and feminine, the thin and artful strips Frame your foot with sleek, glossy tendrils. This splurge would definitely get a lot of mileage in my closet, I'd dress up jeans with them, liven up a black cocktail dress with them...They're so beautiful; I might even sleep in them! Ok, I'm done rambling.

Happy splurging!

--Queen of Preen

Jimmy Choo-Bias Cut Sandals-$580.00

Hello lovelies!

I will be so glad to be back with you next week, October 8th. I absolutely cannot wait!! I've missed this so much!! You may notice that my style has changed a little bit. Useless piece of personal information: I tend to gravitate toward certain choices based on my mood, what’s going on in my life, etc. (as do most people I’d guess…) anyway, I hope the new selections will be to everyone’s liking! Please comment or email to let me know your opinions—good and bad! I also decided to make this more of a journal format so please don’t mind if I ramble from time to time…

I’ve decided to add two new sections:

-Splurge of the Week

- Preen Picks

Preen picks: I’ll shop around for the best interpretations of the hottest trends and turn one great piece into a complete ensemble for you.

On The Horizon:

Finally, look for new exciting links and contests where you can enter to win fabulous fashion items from me :), yes actual APPAREL!

In the meantime, visit our friends at www.FashionChateau.com to satisfy your shopping urges, until October 8th. They were nice enough to provide all QofP.com readers with an exclusive discount code which is good for 15% off any purchase you make at their lovely store, just enter checkout code 'Preen15' to take advantage of this wonderful offer.

Let the styling begin!!!

Chicly Yours,

Queen of Preen