As a follow-up to last week’s post (here), I’ve compiled a few more of my must-haves for fall.  While some of them are a bit exorbitant (like a sweater that’s nearly $600), those are the kinds of pieces that inspire me to find more affordable options.   I’ll be in New York in just over two weeks for Fashion Week (I’ll be speaking here) and I would be content if just one night would require a crisp blazer and maybe a thin knit for an early morning walk.

1. Topshop Petite Leopard Fur Coat, $190
2. K Jacques St Tropaz Caravelle Leopard-print Sandals, $285
3. Coach New Hamptons Ocelot Crossbody, $325
4. Preen Line Coco Sweater, $569
5. Topshop Knitted Pointelle Crop Jumper, $70
6. Elizabeth and James Oversized Cotton Blazer, $395
7. Alice + Olivia Sequin Bustier Cotton Dress, $495
8. Topshop Suede Pleat Shorts, $135

Gifted Berman Headband, Coach Sunglasses, Planet Blue Arm Bangle, Souvenir Shop Bracelets, Gifted Wren Jumper, Steve Madden Sandals

I wouldn’t exactly call myself a spontaneous person.  There’s something about the long, lazy days of summer though, that beg for random day trips to places you’ve never been.  Since the temperatures were in the upper 90’s, we packed up the car and headed to Arrowhead Lake, where we were met with a cool breeze and clean air.  We ate right along the water, spent far too much time in the souvenir shop and stocked up on homemade fudge for the ride back to the city.

{With my boyfriend on top of Mount Tam}

I think it’s oddly more acceptable to complain about the trivial things that bother you than it is to take note of special little moments throughout the day.   It’s even perpetuated by a lack of naming conventions since there’s no antonym of “pet peeve” in the dictionary (and yes, I checked).   Until there’s a word that describes those simple things that make you smile, I’ve compiled a list of my top ten.

1. When my favorite song is playing on the radio as soon as I start the car.
2. When I find money in my pockets that I had forgotten about.
3. When I’m not feeling well and realize I have absolutely nowhere to be.
4. When my mom mispronounces technological devices.*
5. When drivers thank me for letting them pass or turn in front of me.
6. When I untangle a stubbornly knotted necklace.
7. When I catch my boyfriend smiling at me sweetly for no reason.
8. When I dress perfectly for temperamental weather.
9. When I climb under covers that have been freshly washed.
10. When the lights first dim at the beginning of a movie.

What are the little things that make you happy?

*She lost her iPod Shuffle a few days ago at the gym and (jokingly) considered describing it as a silver, miniature music box.

Zara Top, Moscot Glasses, Vintage Necklace, J.Crew Skirt, Gifted Coach Boots, Switch Wooden Ring

As I mentioned just days ago, I love that sequins are no longer reserved simply for holiday parties and elegant soirees.  When paired with rugged boots and casual basics, they’re a welcomed (and festive) change and I can’t get enough of the combination.   I picked up this vintage necklace at the flea market this past weekend and while I love its shape and the gentle clinking sound it makes when I move, my neck is seriously irritated.  I think it’s my body’s way of discouraging me from wearing jewelry that costs less than $8.

I prefer desserts that can also be served for breakfast and blueberries make these entirely acceptable to eat before noon.  The produce aisle has been spilling over with fresh blueberries, so it was only natural for me to return home with five baskets of them.   After browsing through dozens of complicated recipes, I decided on these bars, which are simple and taste like summer.  They’re juicy and crumbly and will make a terrible mess if you bring them to a picnic, so just be sure to pack extra napkins.

I realize that it’s still August and in most parts of the country it’s hot, humid and sticky and the last thing you can think about is fall clothes.   But I can’t help it.  Plus, if I waited until it actually cooled down, it would be November and many of the clothes I’m currently lusting after would be long gone.  Since there are so many different things on my radar, I figured I’d break them up into several parts so that it’s not too much to handle for those of you that are currently beach-side or pool bound.

1. Antik Batik Dream Embellished Blazer, $575
2. All Saints Alesky Shorts, $175
3. J.Crew Galaxy Purse, $395
4. Topshop Buckle Leather Strap Satchel, $170
5. Topshop Army Cape Jacket, $110
6. Steve Madden Trouser, $69.95
7. Beyond Vintage Lace Batwing Top, $320
8. Paul & Joe Festi Lace Mini Skirt, $590

Madewell Dress, Vintage Belt, Vintage and J.Crew Bracelets, Marc Jacobs Bag, Forever 21 Mary Janes

This summer I’ve been living in crisp shirt dresses.  They’re more refined than classic cotton, but just as comfortable and I love their slightly androgynous feel.   I balance them out with feminine accessories, like these platform sandals from Forever 21 that are nearly identical to the Miu Mius I lusted after this past spring.  I’ll be wearing them with bare legs for the next couple of months, but with ribbed tights in unexpected shades of mustard and eggplant in the fall.