Downtown, everything's waiting for you...

So maybe Petula Clark's song is a bit dated (although still good for a guilty pleasure sing-along), but Chick Downtown is most decidedly not. The online retailer is every fashion-forward girl's dream, with clothing and accessories from a glorious range of designers. There's the tried and true, with Helmut Lang, Jill Stuart, Balmain, and Marc by Marc Jacobs. Then there's the delightfully quirky, such as Loeffler Randall, See By Chloé, Rich & Skinny, and Sass & Bide. And of course, everything in between.

When I think downtown, I think lived-in, worn-to-death clothing, NYC club kids, and just an air of scruffy sophistication. And, I think of Elizabeth & James' Peach deconstructed tee.


This gorgeously draped top is oversized, just the way I like it. Tuck into skinny jeans or a high-waisted skirt, and you're set. And, Chick Downtown wants you to have it! And couldn't we all use a wardrobe update right around now? Email me at meredith.trusty@gmail.com, and let me know how and where you'd wear the top. Get creative, because the best entry wins! You've got until August 16th, which is more than enough time to write between lounging in the sun and sipping on pink lemonade.

Click here for more Elizabeth & James, and be sure to check out Chick Downtown's Twitter and facebook page.

And now some downtown inspiration for us all....

Jules Smith

Every season, designers begin brainstorming their upcoming collection with one phrase: "What inspires me?" Everyone's taste is different, and inspiration can vary from the very literal all the way to the abstract. Often, a photo, a memory, or an ideal can pave the way for an entire line of clothing or accessories. The thought that something small, such as the smell of a summer evening you remember as a child, can launch a collection of clothing is both fascinating and beautiful to me.

Accessories designer Gina Nigrelli, creator of Jules Smith is inspired by both the literal and the abstract. Her jewelry designs, both modern and vintage, stem from her love of bygone decades. Think Studio 54 of the 70s meets over-the-top excess of the 80s, and you get the idea. Jules Smith jewelry encompasses everything from bold cuffs to delicate chain-links.

Of her collection, Gina says, " ...[it] pays homage to the iconic trends in fashion. One strong accessory, such as a dominant necklace, cuff or bold pair of earrings, completes a look that is timeless and effortlessly chic.” A study abroad experience in Harare, Zimbabwe, started Gina's love affair with vintage jewelry pieces, and she began sketching as well as collecting.

Now based out of Brooklyn, NY, Gina's Jules Smith collections is a celebrity favorite, with her pieces adorning the wrists and necks of Cameron Diaz, Drew Barrymore, Angelina Jolie, Anne Hathaway, Mary-Kate Olsen, among others.



Jules Smith jellies




Shannen Doherty in a Jules Smith bangle

And, because summer time should be about free stuff (at least in my eyes) Jules Smith is offering up free jelly bracelets! Either add Jules Smith on facebook or follow her on her twitter page, and write about "what looks inspire you from decades past." Place your post either on her Twitter or Facebook fan page, and if your piece stands out, you'll have a beautifully adorned wrist, courtesy of Jules Smith!

Alex & Ani

The word of the moment seems to be sustainability. There seems to be two schools of though about the buzzword: Those that feel like nature and conservation is being shoved down their throats, and those that genuinely want to help protect our planet. I consider myself to fall into that second category, but I often find it's hard to truly live a completely "green" lifestyle. And all too often, I forget that there are several stylish, and affordable options to make my wardrobe and accessories more earth friendly.

Alex and Ani is just one example of an accessories company who commit to making earth-friendly pieces that don't scream granola. Not only do their jewelry designs have a beautiful fluidity and sense of movement, but all pieces are created by hand from recycled metals. Founder Carolyn Rafaelian is deeply committed to being a friend to our plant, and being as conscious and eco-savvy as possible. In addition, all Alex and Ani pieces are made in the United States, which helps cut down on the trail left behind from global shipping, and ensures unparalleled quality.

But the most interesting and unique aspect to Alex and Ani is that all jewelry is customizable, to fit each wearer perfectly. This is because of their expandable concept, which replaces traditional jewelry clasps with a sliding mechanism. Instant perfect fit. And if you have the perfect fit, then the jewelry's not wearing you. It's part of you, a truly organic accessory that not only adorns, but completes someone.

Featured in such publications as Teen Vogue, InStyle, People, Glamour, Vogue, and Elle, you know that the line is fashionable. Now all you need to is pick up one of these unique, timely pieces. Some favorites include:


Lifetime of Luck- Set of 3, $58



Saint Christopher Expandable Wire Bangle, $21



Ascending Dove Expandable Wire Ring, $86



Halo Fleur De Lis Necklace, $98

Studies of New York

Sorry I've been absent! Have been in New York since the end of May, interning with Vogue magazine! As you can imagine, life is quite hectic and crazy, and weeks seem to fly by, and I haven't been able to take as many photos of the city as I would like. But, I've been able to sneak a few in here and there.

I've always really enjoyed photography, and have always been envious of those who could capture moments in life as they happen; a "candid camera" photographer of sorts. I just don't think I'm that good of a photographer to merit owning a really nice camera. Even still, here's my attempt at capturing moments.