Best Fall Recipe: Banana Pumpkin Smoothie

My friend Anna once recommended eating canned pumpkin for a semi-sweet, low-calorie snack. I took it a step further with this amazingly yummy, nutritious and--best of all--filling smoothie. Some context: This summer I bought a hand blender and since then, I've been crazy for the smoothies.

• Ingredients: 1/3 to a 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin (The more pumpkin you use, the more intense the flavor. I use a 1/2 cup.)
• 1 frozen banana
• 1 cup soy milk
• Trader Joe's pumpkin pie spice (to taste)

Just blend together and enjoy!

I'm Back!

Well, sort of. It so happens that freelancing may be even more consuming than being on staff at a publication, so I probably won't be blogging here very much. HOWEVER, I will be offering analysis on fashion and retail news at The Fashion Beat. Be sure to follow me there! xoLauren

Weekend Wear for the Young and Modern

In high school, in college, even in the first couple years of work, women have a distinctly different wardrobe for weekdays and weekends. Weekday looks are cute and calm; the weekend is when you show off your newest, freshest duds, whether at a friend's house party or indie night at the local club. That new vintage dress, pastel silk blouse or zany-colored tights are most impressive when you're out and about, not stuck at a desk.

By our mid-20s, we're likely to be more confident in our position in the workplace, which means we start to show off our personality a bit more through dress. That also means wearing your favorite weekend looks on the weekdays. For instance, I wear dresses and skirts to work regularly, often paired with red, purple or pink tights, sky-high platforms and frilly blouses. Other days I'm more subdued in jeans, a button down and Keds, loafers or pumps. It's nice to get great use out of the clothes I've invested in.

But here's the thing: Now that I wear all my star pieces to the office, I'm kind of at a loss for what to wear on the weekends. By Saturday, I'm sick of wearing tights and frankly, even nice jeans. I'd like to spend those 48 hours in sweats. And while I do indeed where sweats often, I'm often looking for something a bit more. Because let's face it: The reason why we consider certain clothes special is because they make us feel special. Thus, I'd like to find some unique, comfortable weekend wear, meaning clothes that I wouldn't want to flaunt at work but enjoy wearing on my days off.

If I Was 14...

I would save my pennies for this funny little dress.

What I Want/What I'm Wearing This Spring

I won't be shopping much this spring. It has very little to do with the economy. I simply have the basics that I've lacked in the past: Proenza Schouler black pumps. Shift dresses from WhyRed and Steven Alan. Blazers from Helmut Lang and YSL. (Of course, these items were all purchased for a fraction of the original price.) However, there are always a few items on my wish list.

What I Want:

• red, navy and highlighter yellow deep v-necks from American Apparel
• some sort of Lego hair clip or belt
• some new white sneakers--maybe from Superga
• BOY suspender strap skirt
• boyfriend shirt in blue from Steven alan
• new navy Keds (mine are stinky)
• some classic flats
• cotton power dress from Preen's diffusion line
• And maybe this pioneer skirt from Acne. Maybe.

What I'll Definitely Be Wearing:

• my Rachel Comey oxfords with Uniqlo jeans
• Tashkent wedges with high-waisted Michael Kors shorts
• Marc by Marc Jacobs black organza cocktail dress
• black bass tassel loafers
• my grey YSL oversized blazer from the '90s
• my doc martens
• lots of fluorescent accents, like scrunchies!
• more grey than I should be able to get away with
• Pierre Hardy for Gap army green wedges!

What are you looking forward to pulling out of the closet this spring? Send me your thoughts!

Is London Where It's At?

I didn't post anything about New York Fashion Week this year because, frankly, it didn't prove very exciting. The most exciting part, in fact, was meeting my favorite personal style blogger, Susie Bubble. She was just as sweet and cool in person as she is on her wicked blog. Anyways, it's not that I didn't enjoy the shows. I thought that most were lovely. I'd wear lots from Narciso, Jeremy Laing, heck, even Michael Kors, but other than a choice few--Marc Jacobs, Sophie Theallet come to mind--there was nothing new, different or exciting about what I saw. I think a lot of it has to do with the recession: I'd say it's worse in New York than any other fashion capital, and designers are feeling the pressure.

What did look great, however, were the clothes at London's itsy bitsy, four-day fashion week. I adored Henry Holland's Pantone-inspired suits and Giles Deacon's insane yet ladylike take on dresses. But Christopher Kane was the true star. In the past, Kane's collections have been excellent--we must thank him for the reviving Herve Leger-like bandage dresses back in 2006--but not my style. That surely wasn't the case this time around. He mixed sheer organza with lots of grey and black plaid, playing on the importance of masculinity in women's clothing right now without forgetting that we want: to channel 1980s style without looking like Meg Ryan in When Harry Met Sally. (Okay, I kind of want to look like her, but I feel as though most girls don't. They want to look a bit more modern.) Anyways, here in New York, we like to think Alexander Wang has a hold on the cool, downtown girl's wardrobe. But Wang's looks are too literal in my opinion, especially as of late. Give me the quirky, off-trend style of London instead.

Kiss My Acne, Lanvin!

I'm experiencing a bit of writer's block so I decided to take it out on this blog. Sorry, guys!

Okay, so I spent some of my time this evening cruising the new, well-designed Lanvin Hearts Acne line, a collaboration between Lanvin's fabulous designer Alber Elbaz and Swedish denim label Acne. I adore every single piece in this small collection, and if I had copious amounts of cash, I would no doubt be spending it on this stuff. Right now, I'm all about the late '50s, early '60s pegged leg jeans and circle skirt looks that are done so well in this capsule.

However, I am not (that) crazy, nor will I be able to crack open that (non-existent) trust fund anytime soon. Therefore I cannot justify spending $570 on a pair of 5-pocket stunners, even if they do look terribly cute cuffed right above the ankle. (And look at those pussy bows! And the over-sized shirt dress! It's all so, well, me! Sigh.)

You might wonder why these pieces are so expensive. Well, there's only one reason, and it's not a reason most labels can get away with: Elbaz. Anything created by the Lanvin designer is so (presumably) highly-coveted, those behind the collaboration believe that fans will be willing to pay an added premium for this already ultra-premium denim. Whether they really are--especially in a recession--is another question.

As for me, I'm looking forward to Acne's Summer '09 sample sale.

I'll Admit It...I Sort Of Like GOOP

Around the age of 14, I went through a Gwyneth Paltrow phase. Essentially, I wanted to be her, or her then-best friend, Winona Ryder. I suppose they were sort of the refined, late-90s version of Paris and Nicole, this time with matching outfits and short, cropped hair. I loved their style: long flowing dresses matched with tomboy haircuts and blazers. Of course the boys on their arms--Ben and Matt before they were "Ben And Matt"--were also envied. For some time, I wore a fake diamond solitaire necklace, green cargo pants and grey, black and white t-shirts, which I believed all gave off an air of Gwyneth. I also watched several of her and Wynona's movies, most importantly, fashion-wise, Sliding Doors, Emma and Reality Bites (the latter still influences my style choices today).

But after Gwyneth moved to London, had some babies and got a stylist, I started to find her a bit offensive. She was no longer an icy cool girl, who happened to be famous, but a glossy A-lister with nothing better to do than show up in the Stars: They're Just Like Us! section of Us Weekly. Her two latest endeavors--a TV show with chef Mario Batali--and GOOP, a lifestyle Web site that offers readers tips on how to live like Gwynnie--are both pretty damn ridiculous. Spain: On The Road Again follows G with MB as well as some Spanish actress and New York Times food writer Mark Bittman. On GOOP, you can cull advice from Gwyneth's personal physicians, gain tips on how to put together your autumn wardrobe and even find out what museums the actress is planning on taking her kids to this season.

But I have to say, while I can't seem to let myself enjoy the television show, GOOP, on the other hand, is getting to me. Cause you know, when it comes down to it, Gwyneth still has that thing going on where she seamlessly blends the down to earth personality of an Upper West Side Jew with the unapproachable beauty of an Upper East Side Blond. The truth is, her doctors have interesting things to say, and I love her wardrobe picks! Fortunately, I don't want to be her anymore, but I want to be like her. Kind of.

(This image is of Gwyneth back in 1997, when I idolized her.)

Funny.

So, NY mag has this video of Ms. Wintour, the second most powerful fashion editor, running at the end of Derek Lam's show. I've never seen her do this, but maybe I haven't been to enough shows with her. Regardless, it's pretty hilarious. And right in front of her is one of my favorite fashion writers, Kate Betts of Time's Style and Design supplement. She seems to be walking, though.

Getting A Seat At A-List Shows

As a member of the business press, some designers deem me important, others certainly do not. Therefore I get invited to some excellent shows without requesting a seat. Others, on the other hand, I'd have to beg for if I wanted to go. (Hello, MJ!)

This year, I requested only one invite--Phillip Lim-- a show I've attended for four seasons now but have never officially been invited to. Every year, I'm stuck with a last-minute standing assignment. (For many, a "standing" assignment is the kiss of death, but I have been willing to suffer through those 15 minutes of rubbernecking to get a first-hand glimpse of Lim's new collection.)

The big guns came out for this one, including my idol Suzy Menkes, as well as the Voguettes and Nina Garcia and every single buyer on the earth, since his stuff does so well in retail. I am proud to announce I did get seated this year, and my spot wasn't too awful!

The clothes were pretty good (wouldn't the above dress suit me well?), but couldn't touch Narciso Rodriguez's collection, which really impressed. I think I might just email their pr girl about Fall 2009 seating right now...

Things I'm Loving

As I'm sure you are well aware, it's that time of year again: Fashion Week has come to New York! I'm lucky enough to be attending quite a few shows this time around, and working on some fun stories as well. But instead of harping on the fact that I was sitting one row away from Chace Crawford, Ashley Olsen and Jessica Szohr (Vanessa on GG) and Matthew Settle (Rufus), I want to discuss things I'm loving this fall, whether they have to do with fashion or not...

The Gap--I'm not sure Gap's new initiative will make them any money but I do know that I heart the clothes! I picked up the popover dress, $58, in black and white and am looking forward to another blouse that should be on sale soon.

Mad Men--Great show. Great cinematography. Amazing fashion. Amazing sets. And did I mention thought-out character development? This show has it all.

Jenni Kayne--The LA-based designer turned out a gorgeous Spring 09 collection that feature a sunny yellow silk blouse and pink, blue and yellow on white floral dress that were must-haves.

BOY--I have mentioned my love for BOY, Scott Sternberg's girly label, but this Spring I. Want. Everything. No, really. Everything. He captures my desired aesthetic so. freakin. well.

Exposed brick. Get over your disdain. It's pretty.

Eating lunch at Ikea. 

Brideshead Revisited (the book). I just love the English class system, don't you?

But enough about me. What are you excited about this fall?

Poncho? Please.

I'm stuck in the airport so I figure this would be a good time to lament on the "comeback" of the poncho. Every year, I feel as though the poncho is resurrected, with little response from consumers. Again, today, Style.com writes about the stylishness of the poncho.

Here's where I stand: Ponchos are ugly. It's not about the fact that they're shapeless, made from itchy/unflattering fabric and just overall cheesy. It's the fact that every year, someone tries to make them cool. Why is that? Who actually thinks these things are good-looking? Even if you're into the whole Southwestern look--you know, turquoise, fringe, what-have-you--the poncho just looks plain ol' silly.

Capes, on the other hand, I love. Maybe it's because they cut more of a clean line, or maybe it's because the girls who usually wear them are insanely stylish, and usually French. Regardless, if for some reason you're aching to buy a poncho this fall, remember that a short leather jacket will last forever. A flimsy draping of wool, however, will not.

Beauty Secret Alert: Penelope's Red

I've found it: the perfect red lipstick. No, really. It looks good on everyone.

Mac's Russian Red is too orange for many, while Chanel's Fire is pretty but a little too pink for some. The perfect red, in my opinion, is by none other than Revlon. My friend Marisa found it, and I must say she did us all a favor. Named after Revlon spokesmodel Penelope Cruz, the color looks good on fair skinned, dark-haired girls like me, pale red heads like Marisa, freckled gals like my friend Anna, and tanned, blond ladies like my Aunt Barb. Try it. You won't be sorry.

Is Expensive Food a Trick or Treat?

Soooo. As I'm sure all of you know, Saturday is my birthday. I am looking forward to a leisurely dinner with friends then a nice, celebratory party with even more friends.

The night before, the bf and I are going to dinner at Scarpetta in Manhattan. It's a new Italian spot helmed by a hip chef--the place received THREE STARS from Frank Bruni at the New York Times. I think that means it's good? One of the signature dishes is foie gras ravioli. Sounds a bit too rich for me, but we'll see tomorrow night!

The prices are moderate, meaning the meal will cost about $120 for the two of us--since we don't do wine--but really, is one meal worth it?

This is the question I ask myself again and again. Sure the food will (hopefully) be impressive, the atmosphere buzzy, but whether or not my lovely, generous bf should be spending that much for a romantic dinner is undecided. But I suppose I should feel lucky that I even have the choice.

Why Are Sales So Good?

Allow me to put my financial reporter hat on for one moment:

Sales this summer are so great because the economy isn't so great, and less people want to spend money on the middle market. People are either trading up or trading down, which means they're wearing Target or Zac Posen, and nothing in between.

Reporter hat off:

Get thee to Barneys, or Nordstrom or your favorite indie boutique NOW! I got this Mayle blouse at the Co-op for 80% off, and at Bird I scored a Mociun skirt for half the original price. If you love designers like Lyell, Mayle, Alexander Wang and Phillip Lim--all mid-market favorites--you'll be able to score in the stores. However, sizes are always limited, so be prepared to do a LOT of shopping.

What are some of your best buys this summer? Share in the comment section below.

I'm Back! With Some Musings on Music

I've been gone for awhile, but I decided it was time, yet again, to devote a little of myself to this lovely blog. I hope some of you are still around. (For those that are, please let everyone know I'll be posting regularly again.)

Let's discuss my latest crush/obsession: the musical duo She & Him. As you are all quite aware, I'm not the savviest listener. I like mid-'90s indie rock and alt-country, and that's about it. Oh, and I love Laura Nyro. You probably haven't heard of Ms. Nyro, but you know a ton of her songs. (They were made famous by the likes of Barbara Streisand and Carol King.)

Listening to Nyro's "Save the Country" with my mom as a little girl is one of my dearest memories. I always have her greatest hits on my iPod. And my iPod is tiny.

I would say that Zooey Deschanel and M.Ward, the duo behind She & Him, channel lots of Patsy Cline in their first album, Volume 1, but the "1960s girl group, elevated" element is all Nyro. Forget about Deschanel's film career right now: her voice is the most unique I've heard in quite a while. I must admit--this album makes newer Rilo Kiley tracks sound way over-produced. (Jeez, I sound like a music snob.)

This Rocks

I'm a size 10/12 and I have narrow hips, which means I can fit into most designer clothes. However, up until two years ago, I was a good size 16. It was always really depressing to find that the clothing I loved wasn't available.

Now, a new store in Manhattan has come up with a brilliant concept. True Boutique carries amazing designers -- including Dallin Chase and Cloak and Dagger -- but in sizes 00-16, so more girls can shop.

I really hope this idea takes off. Good luck to Katie, the owner!

Jump!suit

I've been trying to get my naturally thin friends to wear jumpsuits for the last three summers. I hate to say it, but I feel this trend screams, "the tinier you are, the better." (I'm usually all for every size wearing every trend -- like skinny jeans -- if you know how to style, you can make it work).

HOWEVER, I'm starting to really, really want a little chambray romper from Urban. I haven't tried it on yet for fear of feeling depressed, but I think I'm going to go for it this weekend. If it fits my long torso/high waist body, you'll be seeing me in a onesie come 4th of July.
Ooh, that's going to be a pain when I have to use the WC.

No More Celebrity Fashion Lines, Please!

If I hear about one more celebrity fashion line, I might simply vomit.

That is all.

A Girl Can Dream in French

If you catch the drift of the title of this blog, then you know how badly I love French culture. I don't when it happened, but sometime in my early twenties I realized every girl I wanted to be was French. (Except for Sofia Coppola, of course, but she also wants to be French). I love Charlotte Gainsbourg, but recently I've become fascinated with the style of Francois Hardy, who I seemed to have been mimicking without even knowing she existed. Now I must buy her albums for inspiration.