Designer on the Rise: Joanna Lau, Founder and CEO of Jemma

Between slaying it at work, grabbing drinks with her girlfriends and hitting the gym on a (semi) regular basis, the modern woman is busier than ever. While every girl boss has her own tricks to having it all, there's one thing any busy bee needs: A versatile purse. Switching bags every morning takes some valuable time out of your day, plus even the sharpest style maven may accidentally forget her apartment keys in the switch. With a versatile color palette and fashion-forward silhouettes that will take you from the office to happy hour, Jemma provides a chic alternative to the typical working bag. Here, founder and CEO Joanna Lau shares her style secrets and what's to come for the emerging brand.

Joanna Lau

The Trendologist: Tell me a little about yourself.  What did you do before launching Jemma?

Joanna Lau: I was a trader on Wall Street for four years after graduating from NYU Stern with a major in finance and statistics and a minor in music. I always had a keen interest in fashion. I worked part-time at Tommy Hilfiger's public relations department while at NYU and completed a summer course in fashion design at Parsons during high school. I founded Jemma in October 2015, and launched my first Work-Life Collection in January 2016.

TT: What inspired you to start your own line of handbags?

JL: While working in finance, my daily problem was not having a proper work bag that I could confidently carry that not only met my working and personal needs, but had the appropriate color, quality and professionalism. I found myself having to constantly accommodate to the constraints of my handbag. My girlfriends and colleagues had similar experiences, so I knew this was a void that needed to be filled. Jemma was created for the modern working woman who doesn’t want to sacrifice style, convenience or an entire paycheck for the right handbag.

The Emma Purse, $398, Jemma.

TT: How does Jemma differ from other purse brands on the market?

JL: Jemma fills a niche in the women’s handbag market for a well-designed, high quality handbag that serves the working woman’s daily needs. There are a lot of beautiful handbags available today, but I felt that fashion trumped function far too often. I had many bags that were pretty, but when I needed to carry my laptop or an important folder or file, it was awkward — which is both unattractive and unprofessional. I was frustrated that I couldn’t find a bag that addressed my needs for a functional accessory that was also gorgeous and appealed to all my senses like a luxury handbag.

TT: What was your approach to designing these bags?

JL: I did a lot of market research and interviews with working women to find out exactly what their pain points were with the options that existed for work bags.  Clearly an area for a laptop, file and/or folder is essential, and a sleeve for a tablet is important too. Our key attachment snaps into the bag so they’re easy to find, and easy to grab. Our interior a lighter color to avoid the proverbial “black hole” of a larger handbag. A pen holder, a lipstick holder and card slots were [also] non-negotiables. For both style and function, we have an optional cross-body strap and a full closure top for those who commute via mass transit.

TT: Your career history is very different from most designers. What advice would you give individuals who also want to get their start in the fashion industry?

JL: You don’t have to have a conventional design background to succeed in the fashion industry. For me, the Jemma brand is really an extension of who I am, what I love and my personal style. I think a strong brand has to come from within. That way, you know it best and you will know how to make it happen.

The Jojo Purse, $358, Jemma.

TT: I know playing favorites is nearly impossible, but which bag is your favorite: the Emma or the Jojo?

JL: Currently I have been switching between all bags and colorways depending on my outfit. If I had to choose just one, I’d pick the Navy “Emma” Work Bag when I need my laptop during the day and the Ballet “JoJo” Life Bag when I’m out on the weekends because its simply exudes ladylikeness!

TT: Where do you see the brand in five years?

JL: We are working on a few exciting things now. Stay tuned because we’ll be sticking around!

Can't get enough of Jemma? Be sure to follow the brand on Instagram and Twitter.

xx

Trending: Alekka, Your Virtual Dose of Wanderlust

The winter weather is all fun and games until you slip on some black ice and tumble face first into a massive pile of yellow-tinged snow. Gross. Understandably, the next thought that crosses your mind is, "When can I take a vacation?" While jet setting of to Mykonos or the Maldives would be ideal, there are so many things holding you back: fares, your shrinking number of PTO days and that less-than-perfect bikini bod.  But instead of spending the chilly season completely miserable, why not invest in a few stylish, travel-inspired pieces? Not only is retail therapy the answer to (almost) every life woe, picking up a few pieces is cheaper than a roundtrip hotel. Enter Alekka, the travel-inspired e-commerce site that boasts emerging brands, industry favorites and unique pieces crafted by worldly artisans. Regardless of their origins, the carefully curated batch is geared to satisfy your wanderlust.

Alekka by Nico Guilis

And, for your viewing pleasure, Alekka recently teamed up with photographer Nico Guilis of Find Your California for a lookbook that promotes new pieces available on the site and captures both titles' aesthetic: the cool, ethereal (yet slightly edgy) jetsetter everyone secretly wants to be. If you're not already sold on shopping Alekka, feast your eyes on these four Trendologist-approved picks.

Looking for an extra pretty set of earrings to cure your winter blues? These stamped brass and hand enamel ones, which are from Spain, will look stunning with a navy tea-length dress or jeans and a T-shirt. Barcelona Enamel Earrings, $80, alekka.com.

Handmade and painted in Crete, Greece, this printed tray is the perfect catch-all tray for your vanity table or desk. Plus, it'll give your home an offbeat, bazaar vibe. Medium Grecian Jewelry Bowl, $48, alekka.com.

Whether you pair it with a neutral ensemble or power-clash with other vibrant prints, this airy scarf -- which was made in India but found in Ibiza -- is bound to make a statement. Vintage Scarf, $125, alekka.com.

If prints aren't your style jam, the website offers sleek edgy options, too. For example, this 14K gold ring was made in New York and offers an urban, cool girl flair. Mirlo Thorn Ring, $495, alekka.com.

Like what you see? Enjoy 15 percent off any order with the code 15foryou.

xx

Designer(s) on the Rise: Vrai & Oro's Vanessa Stofenmacher and Chelsea Nicholson

"I hate jewelry," says no fashion-forward girl ever. Whether you're rocking an arm party on the daily or peering into your local jeweler's window every so often, there's something undeniably glamourous about some serious bling. And contrary to popular belief, diamonds aren't a girl's only best friend. We love sapphire, topaz, tanzanite-- amongst a slew of other precious and semi-precious stones-- and bare (yet sleek) metals. But what's a gal to do when tracking down an exquisite trinket at an affordable price feels like mission impossible? Enter Vrai & Oro: affordable, sustainable and undeniably chic. In this installment of Designer(s) on the Rise, co-founders Vanessa Stofenmacher and Chelsea Nicholson talk jewelry, business and what's in store for the budding jewelry brand.

The Trendologist: Congratulations on the wonderful line! What was your inspiration behind Vrai & Oro?

Vanessa Stofenmacher and Chelsea Nicholson: We have always been hugely inspired by companies that have shifted the way we see retail and e-commerce, such as Warby Parker and Everlane, even before Vrai &  Oro.  It is such an exciting time to be a part of the movement happening in e-commerce. We ourselves wanted well-branded, well-designed, high quality jewelry, but were discouraged by the price tags. So we set out to create an option for people to invest in luxury pieces that will last, while making the prices as attainable as possible by selling online only without the retail markups.

TT: What makes Vrai & Oro stand out is the ethical responsibility the brand takes on as well as the affordable price points. Can you elaborate on how these two aspects are possible?

VS & CN:  Being in Los Angeles, we are able to oversee where the pieces are manufactured, negotiate our costs, hold minimal inventory and have extremely fast turnaround times.  Our direct to consumer model reduces middlemen and eliminates the wholesale to retail markups, allowing us to focus on high-quality goods that are sustainable and last.

TT: Did you face any challenges by committing to a high-grade, yet affordable, line? How did you overcome these challenges?

VS & CN:  One of the biggest challenges we face is selling direct to consumers as we don’t have the support and outreach of retail brands that help market and sell products. This has been a challenge because it limits our network and audience,  but it has also been a blessing because it's forced us to be more creative in our marketing efforts and also given us insight into each of our customers in order to learn what is working for them and what’s not.

14K Gold Circle Necklace, $135

TT: Where did the name Vrai & Oro come from?

VS & CN: Vrai means truth in French, and Oro means gold in Spanish.  A few years ago , we moved to Paris together for a summer largely and are inspired by French design and culture [to this day].  Now that we live in L.A., we are surrounded by Spanish influence as well, so we wanted to incorporate that aspect.  The words themselves-- truth and gold-- embody the essence of our company: we are dedicated to transparency and using high quality materials that last.

TT: Playing favorites is nearly impossible, but what is one piece from your latest collection that Trendologist readers MUST have in their jewelry boxes?

VS & CN: Our solitaire diamond necklace is our most popular piece for a good reason. It’s such a classic staple that can be worn [daily] and it goes with everything. It layers beautifully with other designs.

14K White Gold Diamond Line Drop Earrings, $495

TT: What did you both do before founding Vrai & Oro?

VS & CN: Vanessa studied graphic design and communication arts at OTIS College of Art & Design. After graduating, she traveled to Paris with Chelsea and worked at the [emerging] design and marketing firm, CrazyBaby. After returning to the States, she founded a graphic design studio, Duk Design, where she designed websites and brand identities for startups and small businesses. Continuously furthering her education in technology and design, Vanessa (along with Chelsea) studied UX design at General Assembly. Upon completion, they planned and launched Vrai & Oro. 

Chelsea has always had a passion for business, fashion and creative marketing. After her first year of studying at the University of British Columbia, she moved to L.A. to launch a philanthropic clothing company, Elise Elizabeth.  After a year of running the company, she passed along the business in order to pursue travels and finish her degree. After spending time in various countries around the globe, she completed her degree in business and marketing at the University of Oregon. Chelsea then moved back to L.A. and continued her education in user experience design through General Assembly. As the course came to an end, Vrai & Oro began.

TT: As a design duo, what is it like to work so closely with another person in an industry that is fueled by creativity?

VS & CN: We’re both very creative in different ways, which works to our advantage. Chelsea is very creative in business and marketing while Vanessa is creative in branding and visual design. We both share ideas on every subject, but we have mutual respect for each other's talents so ultimately we trust each other to make the best decisions in our respective roles as creatives.

14K Rose Gold Double Stacked Diamond Line Ring, $295

TT: Where do you see the brand in five years?

VS & CN: We plan to continue growing quickly and, in the near future, hope to increase our in-person experiences [with] pop-up shops and showrooms.

TT: What is your advice for emerging designers?

VS & CN: Get involved in relevant networks and communities. We didn’t have any connections going into this business, but we wouldn’t be where we are today without the connections that we’ve made during our first year. Attending events, lectures and classes as well as reaching out and following up with key figures in our industry has been extremely helpful for us. We would recommend all emerging designers and startups to do the same.

Can't get enough of Vrai & Oro? Follow the brand on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. 

xx

Designer on the Rise: Carnise McIntosh

Forget canines, technology is man’s (and woman’s) best friend.  According to the Pew Research Center, 25 percent of teens are using technology constantly. And with a perpetually full inbox and a coveted Instagram to maintain, it feels as if, regardless of age, we are all forever online. It’s no surprise that technology has recently been infused into what we wear. From the Apple Watch, to Will.i.am’s techie-friendly collaboration with Gucci, to a slew of smart gems that are hitting the market, wired accessories are a must. But with all the smart bands out there, finding a versatile, stylish purse that possesses technology qualities is no easy feat. Thankfully, Carnise McIntosh has remedied this fashion woe with Leoht. With a rechargeable battery, two built-in USB ports, and an external use interface panel, this line of bags is perfect for the woman on the go. Style nerds, welcome to the 21^st century. The Trendologist was fortunate enough to chat with Carnise about her collection and the future of smart accessories.

The Trendologist: Congratulations on the fantastic line! What inspired you to create a bag that is both tech- savvy and stylish?

Carnise McIntosh: Thank you so much. The team is very excited.

Pure necessity! When I began to solve multiple daily problems I was encountering using technology, I came up with the idea for Leoht. As I began sketching the tote design, one of the first things that was very important to me was that it looked stylish. Coming from a sales background, you learn quickly that if it doesn’t look good, nobody will buy it – girl or guy, fashion or tool. Presentation is everything. Function is important, but style does matter.

TT: What are some of the techie features that are included in the tote?

CM: The tote has six features, four of which are techie. [There is] a built-in 6k mAh battery (that can charge your smartphone three to four times or tablet one to twotimes), controllable interior LEDs, two built-in USB ports, an external Power Panel (battery indicator and micro USB port for charging on the go), and wireless Qi recharging via it’s charging plate. The [bag] also includes a cool extra feature called the Alcove that hides important valuables or unmentionables.

TT: I would love to know more about the mechanics of this bag. How are all these impressive

amenities able to fit into one tote?

CM: That’s the core of our company. We are a hardware company first. We’ve [created] and designed an entire custom technology system that is built directly into our bags. The two influenced each other making it truly fashion technology. We didn't take two existing products and simply slap them together. Leoht bags are designed mechanically and aesthetically together from the ground up. As we release new collections, both the exterior and interior of Leoht’s will evolve.

TT: Why name the brand Leoht?

CM: Leoht is the Latin root word for “illumination” and “light”, which was the first technological integration that sparked the concept.

TT: What was the design process?

CM: It was a growing design process. It started with the technology first followed by the handbag design. As I tried to combine the two together, they weren’t working as separate components. So I went back to the drawing board, stared from absolute scratch and designed them together. Piece by piece, step by step. By doing so, it allowed me to understand the construction necessary for all parts to work seamlessly.

TT: Who is your target customer?

CM: For this collection, the modern women is our target customer. The 7:00AM to 11:00PM [woman], the go-getter, the student, the businesswoman, the mom, the planner. “Modern women” is a broad definition because women’s needs today are vast, but the one thing they all have in common is that their world, whatever it is, doesn’t stop. The Leoht tote is perfect for her.

  

TT: Where is the tote available for purchase?

CM: Currently the Leoht Tote is available for preorder on Leoht.co.

Leoht Totes, $250- $275

TT: I would love to hear more about your background! Tell me about your previous experience with both fashion and technology.

CM: My background is uniquely part arts and part science. I grew up as an artsy child. I’ve known nothing but the love of design my entire life, yet somehow I was always immensely fascinated by natural sciences. As an adult, I intersected the two without knowing it. My studies in graphic design was heavily influenced by science and math. I entered the world of consumer electronics while in college, which encouraged my fascination of tangible technology. Being a graphic designer and working for companies like Apple and AT&T gave me further insight into worlds where beauty, desire and well thought=out innovation had an outstanding effect on the human condition and the experience was life changing. As a professional “visual problem solver”, when the time came to create Leoht, I had an excellent road map to ensure a fantastic team, product and experience in building the company.

TT: What advice would you give to individuals who are also looking to connect the fashion and technology industries?

CM: Be honest to both elements. If it does all of one and little of the other, start over and keep developing until it comes together. If wearable technology and fashion technology are to ever evolve into the norm, then they must work together cohesively and unobtrusively. It is in the hands of inventors, creators of these new innovations to make them as seamless and and easy to incorporate into our daily lives [as possible].

TT: It’s no secret that fashion and technology have been merging more over the past few months. Why do you think techie accessories are just starting to hit their stride? Do you think this is a fad or do you believe more designers will create rechargeable, smartphone compatible (amongst other features) accessories and apparel?

CM: Two things have happened in a very short period of time. The popularity and accessibility of portable connected devices and with it, the second thing, a human connection to the benefits of these devices on a scale much bigger than most realize. Wearable, fashion technology is becoming “reinvigorated” because mainstream comfort levels with other portable devices and modern technologies has become the norm. Long-term benefits become clearly understood by having such enhancements in our lives, and so the curiosity becomes a demand of goods. Life imitates art, and vice versa. If we can think it, it will be.

Designers and inventors will create what the public demands. For now, they want to be entertained by the possible benefits of wearable, fashion technology. Very shortly, they may demand nothing less in nearly any accessory or apparel that they buy. Wearable technology is not a fad: it's simply in the infancy of its legacy.

TT: What do you think the fashion-technology crossover will look like in two years? Do you have any plans to expand Leoht?

CM: On the horizon of fashion technology, the very idea of what “technology” looks like is going to change. The “tech” of things is striving to be invisible but immensely beneficial. We are seeing most of it in health and sports related garments initially from leading brands, but young daring designers will begin to experiment with sensors and smart fabrics for color manipulation, temperature regulation and haptic interaction for ready-to-wear, outwear, footwear and more.

Leoht has an exciting and expansive future. We will continue to push the elements of beautiful, accessible and absolutely functional, wearable technology.

Dying to get your hands on a Leoht bag? Follow the brand on Instagram and check out the brand's Kickstarter.

xx

Summer 2014 Trend: Summer Slides

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past few months, you know that the once squirm-worthy Birkenstocks are this summer's must-have shoe. Megawatt brands such as Givenchy, Céline, and Giambattista Valli have been jumping on the podiatric bandwagon, and let's not forget how many celebrities and tastemakers have been spotted sporting this comfortable shoe. But what's a style savant to do if she (or he) can't stop thinking of this ugly chic trend as purely ugly? Become a trend slave and wear the kicks regardless? Instead, feast your eyes upon this season's other major footwear trend: the slide. Yes, they're also making a major comeback. Though pulling out those sporty pool slides you'd wear after swimming a few laps or during a shower in your college dorm offers a blast from the past, there are so many incredible market finds that are begging to be worn that you are bound to find the perfect shoe. While Miuccia Prada mixed unapologetically flashy gems with a sportier silhouette, Tibi's Amy Smilovic added funky embellishments to a minimalist silhouette. J.W. Anderson offered a refreshing twist on this classic silhouette with a square fold-over. Whether you love Chloé's spring or pre-fall take on this trend, one thing is for sure: Clare Waight Keller's magic touch includes a dash of metal hardware. And if you're not wanting to splurge on a new pair of the au courant sandal, it's okay to take a sartorial trip down memory lane by giving your trust pool slides from many moons ago a second life-- Rita Ora made ordinary extraordinary with striped socks. Birkenstocks, meet your match.

Prada SS 2014, Look 12

Tibi SS 2014, Look 1

J.W. Anderson SS 2014, Look 8

Chloé Pre-Fall, Look 23

Rita Ora

Whether you're hitting the beach or heading out to your favorite summer hot-spot for drinks, think of these kicks as essentials to every summer outfit. Since these shoes have such a simple silhouette, they are extremely versatile. I love the juxtaposition of this minimalist shoe with a dainty slip dress-- the combination screams effortlessly chic. Feeling a little sporty? Try a pair of tailored shorts with a lightweight sweater. For a borrowed from the boys look, try these shoes with a pair of cozy linen pants. Something tells me you're going to get a lot of mileage out of these kicks.

1. Marc Jacobs 2. Common Projects 3. Asos 4. Chloé 5. Tibi 6. Newbark

Will you invest in summer slides this season? Sound off below! 

xx

Collection to Love: Warby Parker X Leith Clark

With the new year comes an unwavering desire for change. Who doesn't wish they could instantly drop ten pounds, read every New York Times bestseller, or have Julia Child's cooking repertoire? Sartorially speaking, most style savants want to throw out their whole wardrobe and start fresh. While magically inheriting Jonathan Saunders and Christopher Kane pieces sounds like a dream come true, stocking up on some covetable accessories is a more practical (and realistic) way to spruce up your look for 2014. One of my absolute favorite accessories of the moment? Warby Parker X Leith Clark glasses.

Leith Clark with collaboration model, Zoe Kazan.

Whether you need reading glasses to devour today's WWD issue or want to look effortlessly glam with some shades, Warby Parker is indisputably one of the hottest brands to find ultra stylish, yet affordable, frames.

Luckily for Warby Parker fans everywhere, the brand  just debuted an adorable collaboration with fashion fixture Leith Clark. You know, a visionary at Harper's Bazaar UK and Vogue Italia as well as the genius behind Lula. With pink tinted lenses and shapes that are reminiscent of the 1960s, this collection obviously has Clark's feminine touch and seal of approval all over it. The collection consists of five new models: Willow, Wednesday, Greta, Aurora, and Marva. Though they all capture a funky ladylike aesthetic, every optical-obsessed fashionista is bound to fall in love with (at least) one of the five frames.

If you have a small face and petite features, the Willow model is your optical match made in heaven. Who doesn't want to channel their inner poodle girl with a pair of cat eye frames? Exactly. But what's a style savant to do if she boasts big eyes and a wide smile? Opt for the Wednesday shades, obviously. The thick, black cat-eye rims are so nerdy chic, they're too good to resist! Plus, the slightly larger shape is a great alternative. Unleash your inner flower power with a pair of Greta sunnies. The hippie-approved shape and rose-tinted lenses are very groovy. Ideal for any preppy hipster, the Aurora's partially rimless frames are versatile enough to wear all year around.  Personally, I'm a huge fan of the Marva glasses. The subtle brow arch and zesty print is perfect for any vintage-obsessed girl who isn't afraid of a little color.

Willow

Wednesday

Greta

Aurora

Marva

Not only will you look good in your Warby Parker X Leith Clark rims, you'll actually be doing some good, too. First of all, for every pair of glasses sold, a pair is distributed to someone in need. Additionally, a percentage from each sale will also go to Girl Up, the United Natons Foundation that strives to provide life-changing opportunities to girls around the world. So if you didn't have enough of an incentive to pick up some feminine frames, you definitely do now. Though these prices are a little more costly than your average Warby Parker glasses  ($145 for optical, $195 for sunglasses), it's a small price to pay for a major fashion statement.

So be honest, how much do you adore this collaboration? A lot, right? Tell me which frames you're loving! 

 xx

13 Dream Pieces of 2013

Style savants, 2014 is coming. It seems like just yesterday we were all shaking in our Saint Laurent boots, fearing the rumored Apocalypse. Over a year since December 21st, 2012, and I'm happy to report that the world is still turning. As many fashionistas (and fashionistos) know, trends come and go; however, there are some pieces that capture one's attention well into the new year. The next twelve months has so much to offer: Nicolas Ghesquière's debut at Louis Vuitton and Peter Pilotto X Target, for example. However, in the spirit of reflecting on our pasts, let's take a moment to honor some of this year's outstanding, game-changing pieces. Sure, they don't fit many fashion groupies' budgets, but can't a girl dream?

Proenza Schouler PS11 Open Toe Sandal ($975): As everyone knows, Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough have a knack for turning their "Anti It" pieces into the hottest picks on the market. Though these kicks may not be perfect for a cold winter evening, you have to admit they're pretty major. Chunky heel, Grecian straps, and subtle hardware? Sign me up!  They're those kind of shoes that would look just as amazing with a slouchy pant as they would with a midi skirt. Versatility makes some of the greatest pieces. (Photo)

Rag & Bone Roseburg Coat ($1.095): As the creative minds behind Carven, Rochas and Céline taught us, oversized statement coats were the must-have piece for this chilly season. Though the aforementioned brands unleashed masculine silhouettes in girly prints and soft pastels, there is something so beautiful about a camel coat. Though is gorgeous tan is different from your go-to neutrals (ie: black and grey), this hue is versatile enough to wear for many seasons.(Photo)

Stella McCartney Strapless Jumpsuit ($2,965): In case you've been living under a rock these past few months, you know that 2013 was arguably the year of the jumpsuit. Major brands-- 3.1 Phillip Lim, Rag & Bone, and Zero+ Maria Cornejo, for example-- unveiled tailored playsuits while Sarah Jessica Parker rocked one at the 2013 BAFTAs. Honestly, this Stella McCartney takes the sartorial cake. The execution is absolutely impeccable, not to mention the black and navy color combination is very au courant. (Photo)

Chloé Ruffled Silk-Blend Satin Gown ($5,595): Don't get me wrong: I love a classic, tailored ensemble just as much as the next trendsetter. However, I am a complete sucker for a "no expense spared" evening gown. I'm a girly girl at heart, and this Chloé number has me smitten. Designer Claire Waight Keller describes her cruise collection as "barefoot attitude," and this dress singlehandedly brings unapologetic glamour and effortlessly chic together. (Photo)

Rosie Assoulin Silk-Faille Drapped-Back Maxi Skirt ($2,995): It's 2013, for crying out loud! Your evening wear is no longer restricted to gowns. Separates galore are now available to spruce up your nighttime looks. This Rosie Assoulin skirt is absolutely perfection. Though it may appear high-brow to some, this piece is a potent ingredient to a jaw-dropping ensemble. Whether you sport this skirt with a blouse a la Carolina Herrera or add a boxy or cropped top, this piece is extremely versatile and works for a wide range of ages. Plus, that soft pink is to die for.(Photo)

Lanvin Stephanie Gold-Tone Necklace ($990): Though everyone adores a dainty necklace or set of chandelier earrings, there's something extremely fun and street style about  a kitschy piece of statement jewelry. This year, fashion house Lanvin unleashed its own collection of logomania gems, which includes varsity numbers and fun slogans. My personal favorite is this gold necklace. It's fun enough to sport with a tough motto jacket, yet smooth enough to pair with a tea-length cocktail dress.  (Photo)

Kenzo Quilted Satin Reptile Jacquard Skirt ($510): Between the spunky eye print and touchable textiles, Kenzo's Carol Lim has a way with patterns and fabrics. Unlike some of the brand's other pieces, I love this skirt because its dark color palette is quite versatile; however, the intriguing fabric gives it the option of becoming a true statement piece. The boxy silhouette may not  be ideal for a night on the town, but can we say
 office chic?  (Photo)

Peter Pilotto Kristen Printed Textured Cotton-Blend Dress ($2,055):  I'm not one for vibrant color palettes and high-octane patterns, but I know a good dress when I see it. And this piece is definitely "it."  Fashion demands us to dream. We're supposed to dream ourselves into an advertisement or photo spread, and we're suppose to imagine life with those fantastic pieces we spot on the runways. Peter Pilotto's Kristen dress makes me dream of going on a tropical vacation. I would tie my hair into a chignon, add some wooden bangles, and throw on some tan wedges (maybe even a red-orange lip). The dreamer in me says, "Très magnifique!" (Photo)

Helmut Lang Leather and Jacquard Jacket ($1,195): Give me any motto jacket, and I'll be happy; however, there's nothing better than a reworked motto jacket. The nonchalance of the silhouette is a bonafide classic while the leather and jacquard blocking revitalizes this ultra-cool jacket. J'adore. (Photo)

Tibi Printed Silk Gazar Skirt ($650):If I haven't made it clear enough, allow me to spell it out: I love Tibi. I love its fun take on sportswear Americana, so it's no surprise that I would go ga-ga for this skirt. The splatter paint print gives a whole new take on the ultra feminine silhouette. Though this piece screams summer, it would look cute with loads of layers. And honestly, when Eva Chen wears something, you love it!  (Photo)

Givenchy Black Bambi Print Neoprene Sweatshirt ($1,375): Couch potatoes, rejoice! Big brands such as Reed Krakoff, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Chanel, and Kenzo debuted chic sweats this fall, which gives you complete permission to wear  (stylish) sweats out on the town. Out of all the stylish picks, this Givenchy piece is my favorite. There's something so artistic, yet completely covetable, about this piece.  Gothic yet fun, it's the perfect piece for any fashionista who wants to be cozy and stylish. If you can magically drop  hundreds of dollars on this sweatshirt, please copy the runway look and pair it with a sheer skirt. (Photo)

Reed Krakoff Wool-Blend Wrap Skirt ($990): Though semi-pleated skirts were all the rage this year (never forget the Zara pleated skort epidemic), this Reed Krakoff skirt revitalizes the envelope shape. The white peek-a-boo panel adds a striking dash of color while the wrap form shows just the right amount of leg.  (Photo)

Prada Saffiano Lux Tote ($1,995):I'm always on a never-ending quest for the ultimate bag: something that has an optional strap, is large enough for Mary Poppins's essentials, and comes in yummy neutrals. Luckily, this bag fits the bill. If the size and shape aren't good enough, this putty hue is to die for.  (Photo)

What were some of your favorite pieces from 2013? Sound off below! 

xx

Trendologist-Approved Gift Guide: The Beauty Buff

Don't you just adore your beauty buff friend? She's the gal you go to when you're not sure which eye shadow shade you should wear for a night on the town with your girlfriends, and you better believe her expertise has made your evening skincare regime way more effective. Give your residential beauty junkie the thanks she deserves with one of these ultra chic presents.

Pedi Set Transformation Kit ($199): Every skincare guru already owns a Clarisonic brush (not to mention a bevy of brush heads and cleansers). But do they have the Pedi Set? Popular this year, think of this beautician-approved gizmo as a stay-at-home spa. And since this giftee is obsessed with all things beauty,  being pampered in the comfort of her own home is definitely up her alley. With a buffing head, smoothing disk, and several creams and oils, your favorite beauty junkie's feet will be stiletto ready in no time!  (Photo)

Kate Spade Silver Street Compact Mirror ($30):As every girl knows, makeup doesn't last forever.  From a faded lip to smudged eyeliner streak, it's imperative that a beauty buff keeps tabs on her face at all times. For a chic check-in, get your favorite cosmetics queen a stylish compact mirror. The silver exterior and classic shape are timeless while the fun saying gives this pick a funky touch.  (Photo)

DryBar Blowout in a Box ($199): Even if you have perfectly curled hair, you have to admit that there's something therapeutic about a salon-worthy blowout. While going to your favorite hair stylist on the daily is out of most girls' price ranges, this gift set will give your hair the TLC it deserves. So why wouldn't your favorite beauty junkie want this gift, too? Exactly. Not only has this dryer model been used by over 1,500 hair stylists, the array of hair products will give your loved one enviable locks.  (Photo)

Sephora Fragrance Sampler For Her ($65): Buying a new signature scent for a beauty expert is like a game of Russian Roulette: you never know how they'll react. Some perfumes are too fruity, too musky, or way too potent. Luckily, Sephora has concocted the perfect solution. With the Fragrance Sampler For Her, your loved one is able to test out a slew of different perfumes, including scents from Tocca, Marc Jacobs, Gucci, and Versace. Once your beauty queen has found the fragrance of her dreams, she can use the certificate from her set to redeem a full bottle of the perfume. If you're trying to find a perfect present for that special guy in your life, Sephora also has a male-approved version of this set. (Photo)

Diptyque Paris Genevrier Candle ($60): If this person is the resident beauty connoisseur in your life, chances are that she (or he) loves a good scent. Not only are Diptyque candles one of the hottest home accessories of the moment, they smell amazing. My favorite? The brand's Genevrier candle, obviously.  With woodsy notes, this pick will make your loved one feel as if she (or he) is walking in a winter wonderland.  (Photo)

Vestige Lipstick Holder ($28): This pick is perfect for the makeup hoarder who has so many products, but minimal space. Not only is this a great way to organize a handful of lipsticks, sticking this on top of a vanity counter will save a lot of drawer space. Not to mention the brass design is retro chic.  (Photo)

Butter London Backstage Basics Nail Art Tool Kit ($18): Critics say that nail art is on the outs; however, your makeup-obsessed friend is bound to disagree. You know that she's been trying to nail (no pun intended) those stellar designs she's seen on Pinterest, so why not give her a helping hand? If the variety of brushes-- one for cleaning up, striping, and dotting-- haven't sold you, the budget-friendly price makes this pick an ideal stocking stuffer.  (Photo)

3.1 Phillip Lim 31 Minute Cosmetic Bag ($259):Having the hottest beauty products on the market is a must, and having an equally au courant cosmetic case is just as important. With the calf hair details and enough space to fit any beauty junkie's favorite picks, this cosmetic case is basically a no brainer.  Not so jazzed about the leopard print? This cosmetic case is also available in solid leathers.  (Photo)

Which gifts will you buy for your token beauty buff? Sound off below! 

xx