Although we wouldn’t wear Ulla’s sweatpants with heels (gulp) they can be worn casually for lunch or cards with the girls or in the evening…still casually. Ulla mixes great materials with high styled designs. For one thing they’re made of crepe, rayon, and washed silk. They feature an elasticized drawstring waist (so easy to slip on), side cargo pockets and a rather long drop crotch. Ulla Johnson’s slouchy drop-rise “Army” pants in black, batik-inspired stripes or washed silk plum are the perfect “pants” for kicking around town. Unlike your average sweats these need to be dry cleaned. Click the links to indulge Ulla Johnson’s must-have sweats! We’d pair with very cool Golden Goose vintage style sneakers.

1. Keep a wish list, and get a little obsessive about it.

How many times have you impulsively bought some garment at a store only to later have a panic moment about it later? “Gross, why did I buy this??” You let the piece languish in your drawer until you finally get over the guilt enough to give it away to Goodwill. Protect yourself from the harms of impulse shopping by creating a fashion wish list on your computer or phone. Add to the list whenever you’re inspired. See something awesome on a website or at a party? Make a note of it to shop more purposefully later.

2. Go “beyond the mall.”

Separating a teen from the mall is like separating a baby from its bottle or an entrepreneur from her cellphone. Ain’t easy! But going beyond the mall is way worth it. You can find awesome deals, shop in advance, and break free from the “Man, I look the same as all the other girls” blues. For instance, while we’re talking maxi skirts… you might want to swing by rue21.com and check out their extensive collection of maxis, like the Tribal Tie-dyed Soft Brush maxi skirt or Peach Small Chevron Roll Waist maxi skirt, both of which have a kind of Burning Man vibe without the “Burning Man vibe,” if you know what I’m talking about. rue21.com offers basically an endless smorgasbord of maxis, including traditional solid roll waist skirts as well as southwest and Aztec/tribal-inspired fashion confections. If you can dream up a maxi skirt in your mind, rue21.com probably has it!

3. Invent looks!

Piece together a variety of looks to keep things fresh and interesting. Start by looking at how other people with a similar fashion sense switch things up. And purchase clothes that can mix and match in cool ways. For instance, getting back to our maxi skirt example, with the right skirt, you can create oodles of seasonal looks: beach-y, night-on-the-town, looking hot-at-school, etc. The results depend on what you pair the skirt with as well as where you’re hanging out. The moral is: buy flexible outfits, and you can make more with less!

Just wanted to share a few of my favorite goodies this season. In our humble shopping opinion they’re definitely worth the splurge $$$$$. FYI…we’ve only chosen pieces that can be worn for seasons or years to come. If you’re going to splurge, classically stylish is the only way to go. Loving Lanvin’s black mohair coat with draped lapel (there’s a shorter version: double-breasted black mohair melton coat) with Eugenia Kim’s warm red ribbed beanie to keep your head from freezzzzzzzzzzing and Maison Moreau’s (Goyard fame…you can’t miss the hanging pouch) Bregancon Zip Tote in red grained leather. Maison Moreau’s totebag comes in an array of gorgeous color leathers with white top stitching. BTW…who is under that striking red beanie??? 

When it comes to choosing a coat, hat and bag we’ve shared three très chic must-haves for the winter. (two of the three pieces are french) The red accessories add a stunning pop of color to Lanvin’s fashion-forward black mohair coat. Now…all you need to do is click the red links to indulge. While I was proofreading this post the price of Lanvin’s draped mohair coat dropped in price. Aren’t you lucky!

AFGG is making shopping so easy…you never have to leave your house. No crowded stores, attitudes or shopping bags. After you shop this post…go over to Betsy Loves to Shop and click on our favorite online retailers and do some more relaxed shopping.

One of my favorite coats has taken a drastic markdown…don’t even know if it will be available by the time this post is set to publish. How incredibly cool is this virgin wool blend oversize coat from Kenzo? The lines and simple detailing are totally cool. There’s no time to dray…if you love this coat. You’ll have to move quickly. (there aren’t many left)  The coat features notched lapels, a concealed front fastening and long sleeves. Kenzo has always been ahead of the curve with his fashion-forward modern approach to style…similiar to Rick Owens, Ann Demeulemeester (she’s more over-the-top) and Helmut Lang. I bought my first Kenzo piece in Paris ages and ages ago. One thing for sure…his look never goes out of style. In recent years the brand was re-launched and has maintained his easy-to-wear minimalistic aesthetic. “The Paris-based label is back at the forefront of fashion thanks to its new creative directors, Opening Ceremony’s Carol Lim and Humberto Leon”.

While I live in an area where my warm puffer is always on hand…I still prefer a wool jacket. Puffers and parkas are always bulky no matter what. (hard to drive in) I prefer a pea-coat style coat. More freedom to move. What I love about Kenzo’s coat is the length…it covers the butt, has the right amount of detailing on the back and completes an outfit. It’s a stunning look for those of you who are lucky enough to snatch up this coat. Kenzo’s coats go as fast as we put them up on our site!!! You can’t keep a good coat down to long! Click the purple links to indulge this ultra funky piece. Wrap a warm snood over your neck and you’ll be as warm if you were bundled up in a puffer. 

“Weather” we like it or not winter’s here! It’s windy, chilly, frigid temps, cold air blowing in our faces…do I need to continue? Thankfully, we’ve got you covered….with Eugenia Kim’s knit hats. No better way to brave the cold than with a chunky ribbed knit Eugenia Kim beanie with cat ears or pom poms. We’ve been scooping about Eugenia Kim beanies for the last few years. Last year we shared our striking purchase…Kim’s neon yellow chunky knit beanie and matching neck warmer. (it’s on our instagram) Made winter bright and bearable!

What better way to blow off the freezing cold than wearing a warm comfy (they don’t itch your forehead) knit wool beanie. We love Kim’s hats mainly because they do the trick and secondly, they bring us back to our childhood when we were bundled up to our eyeballs in snow gear and had cute little hats with ears and pom poms.

The beanies fit snuggly, are warm and whimsical. Makes a cold day more delightful!! (sort of) Click the links to indulge and face the cold. Our fave is the Rain Beanie in black with the purple and grey fox fur pom pom paired with any Moncler puffer.

Now that winter’s here, it’s time for Eugenia Kim’s black or light blue rabbit fur Owen Trapper Hat. The trapper hats provide the ultimate warmth especially for those who walk to work (a warming necessity) and it can be mighty cold out there. Trapper hats have always been a fashion-favorite on the ski slopes. Keeps the ears, forehead and head totally warm. Lately I’ve been featuring things that bring me back to my childhood. We all had trapper hats and hated when they were tied but they kept us warm. My point…these hats are timeless and can be worn for seasons to come. Nothing like a fur hat to cover your whole head!!!!

The stylish hat features patent leather tie closures, black twill lining and an interior grosgrain sweatband. Definitely a luxurious winter trend! Just think you’ll be the envy of all those walking next to you. Hats off to Eugenia Kim for combining style, warmth and comfort. A fabulous solution to frigid temps and declining wind chill factors. Of course, there are so many incredible EK hats to choose from. Click the lightblue links to indulge Eugenia Kim’s fur trapper hat and more! Be sure to take a look at Eugenia Kim’s black rabbit fur Kristi headband. Have fun shopping on AFGG!

Today’s a good day to “Shop The Post” for our fashion-favorite winter items. If you live in New England, you’ll definitely want these timeless pieces. (it’s probably beyond cold out there) We’re featuring luxurious warm Moncler Puffers, Isabel Marant Shearling Boots, Lanvin Gloves, Eugenia Kim Mittens & Hats plus Urban Outfitter Mittens! If you live in an area with frigid temps, powerful winds, wet snowflakes and freezing rain you may want to shop my fabulous winter picks. (sooner than later) It’s never too late to buy a winter puffer, gloves, a pom-pom hat and a pair of shearling lined boots. A Few Goody Gumdrops is hoping to keep you bundled up and comfy this season. We have a few more snow-filled months to-go so you might as well dive into winter in style. Together, these winter pieces will keep you looking trendy and warm! Perfect for après ski winter looks. Click the purple links and the pictures under Shop The Post to indulge!

SHOP THE POST

Rick Owens’ “shock and awe” men’s 2015 fall/winter show in Paris debuted more than edgy, over-the-top clothing. Owens’ pieces featured the “full monty” as male models sauntered down the runway (sans underwear) and in my opinion this took balls. Certainly not new to shocking his audience…although this show reached new depths and lows. No “Cloak and Daggers” here, simply Cloaks and Penises. Lets’ see what stores actually buy these raunchy goods called fashion. I for one think Rick Owens’ has pushed the envelope or genitals too far!  Filed under #droolworthy?????

(warning…these images may not be suitable for viewing, images can be viewed on instagram) 

What do these very trendy designers have in common? Many of their pieces are on sale with drastic reductions (up to seventy percent off) for a limited time from one of our favorite online retailers…MATCHESFASHION. We’ve been eyeing many of these trends all season and now they’re at semi-affordable prices $$$…worth the splurge. If you’re in an area where it’s snowing…no better activity than online shopping right here. We’re loving everything from Isabel Marant’s Cotton Ruffled Jacket, to Gianvito Rossi’s Open Toe Leather Mules, Eugenia Kim’s Pom Pom Fur Beanies, Marant’s Neta Fur-trimmed Suede Boots, Charlotte Olympia’s Oxblood Lace-Up Booties, Givenchy’s Oversized Chain and Medallion Bracelet, Woolrich John Rich & Bros Fur Trim Eskimo Parka, Maison Martin Margiela’s Crystal Embellished Ring, Alexander McQueen’s Army Green Parka (featured above) and Givenchy’s Odia Leather Sandals. I could keep going on and on, but you really should have a look and shop your favorite accessories, jewelry, clothing, handbags, and shoes. Click the purple links to indulge and enjoy shopping some of this season’s hottest pieces.

While many of my friends are wearing flip-flops and sandals, back in snowy Boston we’re in the throes of winter. Major snow storms are on the way! It’s time to ditch the unlined leather boots and start wearing warm winter boots designed exclusively for BarneysNY. Winter boots are a must-have if you live in New England. Barneys’ boots combine ultra warmth, comfort and style. Even “warm” boots can be “cool” and trendy. We’re totally loving all three styles…Barneys New York Shearling-Cuff Gita Boots, Barneys New York (shearling trimmed) Garnet Ankle Boots and Barneys New York Pom-Pom Haircalf Boots. Hard choice but we’ve given you three super cute options (shearling cuff, lace ups and pom-poms) for freezing cold temps and serious snow. Seeing we have no choice but to welcome the snow…we may as well do it fashionably. Click the purple links to indulge warmth and style…before it’s gets even colder. It’s time to “boot up” and keep your toes nice and warm…makes your bones feel warmer, too. Let it snow, let it snow, let it stop!!!!! 

Shop More Warm Boots:

As winter thaws to spring, women all over the country – in particular, the snow-logged northeast – are anxious to chuck the boots and mittens for more freewheeling, ambitious outfits. To that end, we’ve compiled a list of five chic gladiator-inspired sandals. Let’s take them one by one.

1. Isabel Marant’s Jeepy Leader Gladiator Sandals

 These 100% calfskin Italian-made leather thong sandals feature studded insole trim and four adjustable leather straps. They’re perfect for elongating the look of your calf and showing off perfectly painted toes; wait until the snow melts before taking the world by storm in these.

2. Casadei 100 Millimeter Suede Swarovski Gladiator Sandals

 These sandals at first give the impression that they’re hot-to-trot knee-high boots that somehow have been carved out by the world’s most fashion-forward carpenter ants. The contoured strappy-layers are straight up sexy, and these sandals are made from 100% goat skin which, in and of itself, is awesomely gladiatorial. They feature sparkling Swarovski crystals, which will allow you to totally dominate the fashion competition.

 3. Stuart Weitzman’s Gladiator Sandals

 These goat-skin Spanish-made sandals feature soft leather bands (and simple silvertone studding detail) that easily contour around the calf as well as an adjustable buckle strap. Get toned and tanned to show off the look with these knee-high sandals.

 4. Filareskia High Ancient Greek Sandals

 These are legitimately Greek leather sandals – as in, actually from the country of Greece. They feature rubber heals and a unique leaf lattice strapping integrated with an almost twine-like leather lace up material. You can easily imagine a true Greek gladiator princess wearing them.

5. Stuart Weitzman’s Back View Leather Gladiator Sandal, Nero

 This is a more glamorous, modern take on the gladiator sandal, featuring gunmetal stud accents, and an open toe with side cutouts along the side and the shaft of the sandal/boot. The front of the boot is intact; the back is mostly nothing, sexily revealing the calf.

These aesthetically dominant and fun-for-spring-and-summer sandals can invigorate your wardrobe and help you kick your fashion competitors to the curb. Check them out today, and keep up the good fashion fight!

The poncho features wide arms, a funnel neck, and an optional, zip-away hood. Finally a hood! So many raincoats and winter coats don’t come with hoods. (so dumb in my book) The poncho looks incredibly chic with skinny jeans and a fabulous bag. Although if it’s raining I doubt I’d be carrying a Valentino bag. Click the purple links or the coat to indulge Marant’s awesome Gamble poncho-style nylon raincoat and the latest collection of Valentino Bags. Dodging puddles never looked so good!

One of our favorite online retailers is having an incredible shopping event! Are you ready to start shopping? Shopbop is having their Friends & Family Shopping Spree. Once you have all your goodies in your shopping cart, and you’re ready to checkout, enter the code SPRING25, and you’ll receive 25% percent off. There are so many amazing spring items ready to buy during this exciting event. Click the turquoise links to start shopping! Be sure to check out Rebecca Minkoff’s  fabulous selection of handbags, Golden Goose sneakers, adidas Originals by Mary Katrantzou, Frame Denim, Eddie Borgo jewelry, Helmut Lang, Anya Hindmarch and so much more! There are countless items waiting to be purchased. Sale ends April 9, at 11:50pm PT. You’ve got three days do some real damage!

It’s time to start shopping and fill up your cart. Nothing better than “non-stop” luxury shopping in the most perfect atmosphere…your home or office. No pushy customers, fighting crowds, overbearing salespeople….you get the picture. Enjoy your online shopping experience right here!

Like any good sale, there are*Brand exclusions: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Acne Studios, Alexander Wang, Birkenstock, Canada Goose, Gareth Pugh, Giambattista Valli, Herve Leger, Hunter Boots, J. Mendel, Jason Wu, Jennifer Meyer Jewelry, Jonathan Simkhai, Katie May, KENZO, Maison Martin Margiela, MCM, MICHELE, Monique Lhuillier, Moschino, MZ Wallace, Narciso Rodriguez, Nina Ricci, Rag & Bone, Rodarte, Salvatore Ferragamo, Stella McCartney apparel, Stuart Weitzman, SUNO, Tory Burch, Versace, Victoria Victoria Beckham, and WGACA Vintage. Have fun! 

If I were you…I’d start shopping right now! Another bonus…complimentary shipping and returns. Doesn’t get any better than that. AFGG is always keeping you updated on the latest trends and super savings. Loving the micro modal racerback bra to wear under see-through sweaters or alone with leggings! Just ordered the lawn sleeveless white shirt. Yikes…my cart is overflowing! Love the KILN leather draped jacket, too. Extraordinary collection!

If you’re on the “coveted” wait list for the Chanel espadrilles, you maybe waiting for a while! It’s not so easy to snatch a pair of the $650 must-have cotton of-the-moment flats with the iconic CC logo. For those of us who are unable to get on this “now closed” list, we have an adorable back-up espadrille! Thankfully, it’s a lot cheaper by hundreds of dollars and just as cute!! We think you’ll love the Soludos espadrilles.

They come in a variety of colors, patterns and styles. They’re so cute and reasonable, you may want to buy a half a dozen pairs! We love the ones that tie at the ankles and the pairs with the playful designs. Perfect flats for the summer, wearing to the beach, boating or hanging around and they’re so comfy on your feet.

Who says you need to wear Chanel espadrilles to look cool? If you’re ready to shop Soludos, check out the selection below or shop Soludos on Shopbop!

Espadrilles look great paired with shorts, jeans, swimsuits and leggings! Pick and pair and get creative!

I’ve just saved you tons of money or did I? AFGG shops the latest trends for you and me!

Honestly, anything Valentino becomes a treasured piece. I’m obsessed with leopard, so these flats are right up my alley, and the handbags that coordinate are perfection. Valentino keeps churning out these fabulous accessories for daytime or evening. I can’t wait to get my hands or should I say feet in these flats. They’re BEYOND. (those of you who know me well know that’s my word!) Obsessed with the Glam Lock bag in burgundy, tan and black leather with a leopard-print pony skin flap!

Both shoulder bags with the chain straps are to-die-for, but my gut is telling me the one with the burgundy flap is more fallish. The bags are the perfect combination of style, color palette, details and Valentino. (notice the signature Rockstuds on the flap) Are you ready to indulge trendy, chic and GORG??? Click the light blue links to indulge. The Rockstud tri-color slingback kitten heels in light blue are also on my list! Not to mention the brown-camel wool blend coat.

The post I Can’t Help But Love This Season’s Valentino appeared first on A Few Goody Gumdrops.

The post Ushering In Fall with Moschino’s Cropped Teddy Bear Sweater appeared first on A Few Goody Gumdrops.