One Chloe Bird

When peplum tops, skirts, dresses . . . everything started popping up on runways and shelves this past year I couldn't quite decide whether or not I was a fan.  I still find it to be a trend that leaves fashionistas rather divided and I go back and forth.  Today, I found a few peplum items that are subtle enough for the "beginner" to feel comfortable in.

3.1 Phillip Lim Long Sleeved Leather Peplum Top with Notch Detail in Cement 

Flowersketch Peplum Top from Madewell

ASOS Sheer Top with Peplum and 3/4 Sleeves

Jil Sander's Fall 2012 RTW Collection by Raf Simons is one that keeps catching my eye in magazines this month.  Every year there are a few pieces that get plenty of editorial space.  This year, many prints and patterns are getting due attention, but the two tone coat (above and below in different shades) in this collection trumps the aforementioned pattern play in my opinion.  The billowy sleeves and the generous volume of fabric in the body create a simple fashion cocoon.  I think that this coat is something that you could have in your closet forever, that you could wear whether 20 or 65.  There is something beautiful and timeless about a well cut coat.  Below, are several more pieces that stuck out for me in this collection.  I was especially drawn to the soft knits and pale colours that were chosen when, typically, designers come out with the deep plum, green, black, brown, and red shades in droves.  Do you like soft colours in the fall?

(You can catch my favourite piece - this Melton Double-Face BiColour Wool Coat - in the Fall 2012 Holt Renfrew Showroom magazine, on page 19.)

Every fall I create a little bit of a wish list.  It is something that I come up with while looking at September issues or surfing around on the internet.  The most important thing to know about this list is that it is almost entirely "wish list" in the truest form . . . things that I wish for but will not buy myself.  Occasionally, I do splurge (after saving) on a great handbag, pair of shoes, or piece of clothing.  This fall, one of the things that is on the top of my wish list is the Alexander Wang Rocco bag in Black.  I love that this bag is classic with an edge, and that the structure and shape of it are more practical than fussy.  Over a year ago I bought my first designer handbag and it was the Alexander Wang Emile bag.   I love it and have never regretted saving and then splurging on it.  It is quite large and structured, so I often wear my smaller Marc by Marc Jacobs crossbody bag when running errands or going out for the entire day.  This Rocco bag would be the perfect middle size bag between the two others.  So I put this on the wish list and then tell myself to keep dreaming!

With the September issues of various magazines, hitting the stands this week and next, you get the bonus of amazing ads that are almost as exciting as the editorial photo shoots.  Today, I saw the Fall 2012 Ferragamo ads featuring Kate Moss.  I think they are so beautiful, drawing your attention with rich tones and a little bit of mystery. I like the way Moss' hair is styled, pulled back showing off her enviable cheekbones. What do you think?

I didn't bite the bullet when I saw these booties yesterday, but I will be buying them for fall I am sure.  They are so perfect, just sitting at the ankle and with a low heel.  Sam Edelman Petty Booties, available here.