LE CATCH

I've been thinking about what to pack for New York Fashion Week in early February, and finding clothes that can both stand up to the cold and the cutting-edge crowd outside Lincoln Center is no small feat! Pieces that can also be worn more than once would be ideal, and that's where this sleek pleated leather skirt comes in. I see it going from work (i.e., not just the fashion blogger kind!) to cocktail parties, all for $150! And the excellent colors (navy, green, and khaki) from which to choose! Check them fully out here.

$350, netaporter

Imagine having to quickly get dressed for a party and then the exquisite relief of putting on this glittery, comfy sweatshirt. Yessss....

1. Thakoon Addition sequin polka dot sweatshirt, $350, netaporter.com
2. Fallon Jewelry drop earrings, $140, shopbop.com
3. Assad Mounser cuff, $270, charmandchain.com
4. Alexander McQueen clutch, $795, netaporter.com
5. Gianvito Rossi plexi/suede pumps, $625, forwardbyelysewalker.com
6. Sonia by Sonia Rykiel skirt, $305, netaporter.com

The New York Times recently heralded Jenna Lyons, J.Crew's executive creative director, as "the woman who dresses America." I regard her as a fashion bellwether, at the vanguard of style, the first to try and validate new silhouettes, color combinations, and combinations (like teaming a denim jacket with a long pink satin skirt at the Met Ball). Looking at pictures of Jenna is like looking into fashion's crystal ball and divining what's next. This image, taken a few weeks ago at a premiere in New York, reveals a new jean silhouette on the horizon. One that's cropped, boyish, distressed, straight leg--and refreshingly different from all the skinnies we've been wearing. One that might be the next bestseller. One that we may all be wearing very, very soon. Here are some possibilities from Acne, Current Elliot, and Madewell (as pictured on Jenna).

Photo: Vogue

$198, french connection

This just in from the pre-school birthday party circuit: a friend of mine--who happens to be six-feet-tall, blonde, and a former model--wearing these sweatpants-inspired pants. Don't let the concept or the venue throw you--these pants were not of the throw-in-the-towel, motherhood-has-defeated-me-and-I-only-wear-sweatpants variety. They were chic. Grey, lounge-y, with elasticated cuffs at the ankles, and luxe-looking, the pants looked amazing with heels and an oversize blue blazer. So, of course, I set about scouting a few options for myself, and I found this sleek pair by Whistles, as well as the silk drawstring trousers, above, from French Connection, which have a subtle sporty vibe, but are definitely party-worthy--even if I'm not six-feet-tall, blonde and/or a former model.

1. Raquel Allegra cotton jersey top, $265, netaporter.com
2. Topshop striped blazer, $90, topshop.com
3. Anya Hindmarch bag,* $398, theoutnet.com
4. Christian Louboutin python T-strap sandals, $895, bergdorfgoodman.com
5. French Connection silk trousers, $198, frenchconnection.com

*60% off!

Pure comfort is always hard to resist. Which may explain the growing preponderance of the statement sweatshirt. Striking graphics, luxurious fabrics and interesting embellishment take this cozy basic from everyday to party hour. Try them with dressier pieces, like a pencil skirt or tailored trousers. Current standouts on the racks include a lace-print Topshop, a neoprene and floral embellished Tibi, a glinty metallic Club Monaco, and a gorgeously beaded Matthew Williamson.

 Photos: Pinterest, Wayne Tippetts, Streetpeeper

$82, the outnet

Ever since I came across this picture of Vogue's Meredith Melling Burke wearing faded wide-leg jeans, I've been on the hunt for the perfect pair. Eureka! And they are on sale for $82!

1. Chloe broderie anglaise top, $1236, matchesfashion.com
2. Isabel Marant earrings, $155, netaporter.com
3. Tory Burch clutch, $295, toryburch.com
4. Rebecca Minkoff sandals, $292, shopbop.com
5. Mih chambray wide-leg jeans, $82, theoutnet.com

In case you hadn't heard, emerald is the new oxblood. In fact, Pantone has named it the color of 2013. I like pops of it here and there, like on a shoe or a clutch or a necklace, even a top, or a jacket or a pant. Herewith, some ways to get the perfect dose--a sexy Alexander Wang ankle strap heel or luscious cross-body satchel, an emerald bib necklace, a sleek pair of jacquard J.Crew pants, and an easy, everyday sweatshirt from Topshop-along with ways-to-wear-it inspiration.

Photos: Streetpeeper, Pinterest, Melanie Galea, Streetpeeper, Adam Katz Sinding, Pinterest

$39, mod cloth

You can go big with spring's (ubiquitous) black and white stripe trend with the likes of Balmain, Marc Jacobs and Lanvin--or buy in with this easy blouse and be done.

1. Mod Cloth striped blouse, $39, modcloth.com
2. Carven cotton trench, $825, matchesfashion.com
3. Comme des Garcons leather pouch, $145, forwardbyelysewalker.com
4. Elizabeth & James ankle cuff heels, $325, shopbop.com
5. Michael by Michael Kors tapered pants, $100, netaporter.com

One way to deal with dead-of-winter dullness: smart layering and pops of color. Take a cue from Glamour editor Maria Duenas Jacobs and tie on a vibrant print scarf. The added zing will perk up your whole outfit--and maybe even your mood too! I love this ethnic print scarf from Asos. Love, love, love. Not just from a forward-looking perspective (i.e., ethnic prints will be huge trend this spring) but from a utilitarian one, too (the scarf can be used as a beach blanket, wrap, etc). I am also mad about these guys from Theodora & Callum, Club Monaco, and Diane Von Furstenberg.

Photo: Harper's Bazaar Australia

$565, avenue 32

We're halfway into winter (California just recorded its coldest week in 22 years!), but I am still eyeing the coat racks. Why? Because now is when all those seriously luxe, out-of-reach coats start to go on sale and suddenly become a bit more affordable. Case in point: this Eudon Choi standout (50% off) has mod-like detailing, with its asymmetrical buttons and contrast wool shearling. Exactly what I'd like to brave the cold in--and look good while doing it. (P.S. I'd also chill in these discounted forever-chic options from Altuzarra and Burberry!).

1. Alexander Wang cotton-blend sweater, $575, netaporter.com
2. Asos hat, $12, asos.com
3. Eudon Choi coat, $565, avenue32.com
4. Madewell silk trousers*, $118, madewell.com
5. Topshop leather clutch, $72, topshop.com
6. Saint Laurent metallic pumps, $695, bergdorfgoodman.com

*40% off ($70.50) today 1/16 only