For starters, it's been cold and blustery in London. But I am loving it--and the intermittent rain. Running all over the city means practical, weather-proof footwear--something like this, with, major style to boot. I'd wear these guys (back in LA too) with...

1. Madewell striped shirt,
2. River Island leopard blazer,
3. J. Crew leather satchel,
4. Gap suede boots,
5. Goldsign jeans,

Call off the search! I found the ultimate day-to-night short. One that's not scandalously short. One that's black and flattering and boasts subtle beading and a feminine scalloped hem, to boot. Wear them all winter long with tights, or now while the weather permits with...

So in walks my very good friend the other day and she's wearing these blue velvet jeans that just made me want to reach out and touch her. I could not ask her where she got her jeans fast enough. She proudly replied: "J. Crew." What makes them so compelling is that they look like jeans but they're made of baby-soft velvet, so they have this stealth luxe vibe to them. They're also not overly thick--who wants those unwanted inches?--but they are comfortably stretchy and machine washable, plus hugely versatile. My friend worked them pretty much like this...

I am at my least stylish from 8 to 9AM, when I am suited up in workout gear, frazzled from the bed-to-breakfast table-to-out-the-door routine, bent on making the school run fast so I can squeeze in a sweat session. Unlike most Angelenos, I do not exercise in head-to-toe Lululemon: an old t-shirt and some black leggings is my uniform. I try to camouflage this rather unsightly outfit with a big wrap-like cardigan or my green army jacket. But now I am thinking this cozy poncho-like cardigan is the ticket. I love the toggles and the chic cape-like fit. Not only will it act as a genius cover up but it will also be perfect on chilly fall days, with my regular (i.e. more stylish) clothes, when I am running around doing a million things. On those days, I'd wear it with...

A little bag that's seriously high impact--just the way I like it. What's more, it will bestow some exotic-tribal-Missoni-ish fabulousness upon any tonal outfit. I'd wear it with...

There are certain items that most fashion editors will agree on are essential to your wardrobe, and boots are one of them. The range of styles this fall are pretty staggering, including stalwarts from seasons past, such as , , knee-high, ankle- and low-cut booties (a.k.a., shooties), along with new, fresh silhouettes: peep-toes, , lace-up, flat ankle boots, studded , and over the knee glamazons. Despite their differences, all are everyday winter wearable--and getting increasingly more play year round. Since boots last for several seasons, you can invest in a primo pair--or not. I tend to do a bit of both and have a few at my disposal. Tall boots are great with lighter dresses and skirts when it's cold. Fit is important, so get a pair that's snug around your leg--there shouldn't be more than a half inch gap between your leg and your boot. With ankle boots, it's a different story: many of the them are designed to give you breathing room, so it's a matter of what feels and looks good. I like to wear ankle boots with just about everything, including pencil skirts, cropped jeans and skinnies (or leggings), and shorts (with tights in the winter). I did a comprehensive search for all my fall favorites and categorized them below.

I love the idea of wearing a sweater as a jacket--and this is the time of year to do it (or at least we're getting close to it)! Madewell's nubby knit has all the trappings of outerwear--it's cozy, zips up and has front pockets--but it's light enough to be indoor friendly. Plus, the vibrant stripes give it all the coolness of a statement sweater. I'd wear it all the time with...

The faux fur sleeves on this motorcycle jacket make it a compelling (and cozy!) candidate for the cold season. I'd wear it with...

Years ago I had an older Spanish friend who would visit regularly and stay with me in my New York apartment. She was the epitome of European sophistication, always impeccably dressed. She'd come bearing generous gifts, one of which was a needlepoint clutch. It was the most elegant thing ever, mostly because it was so... her. I stuffed it with my daily essentials and wore it into the ground, and then the zipper broke, and that was that. This beaded floral clutch reminds me of my long lost needlepoint bag--but, I have to say, it might even be a little more glam and, with needlepoint an official trend right now, totally of the moment. I'd wear it with...

The one-two punch of the asymmetric hemline and graphic color-blocking makes this Derek Lam skirt a true standout. What's more, it's on sale (the original price was $1250). I'd team it with a casual t-shirt, just like uber stylish blogger would...