As things heat up here in NYC, I will be trending the great "back" looks in and around the city. Take style note of the fab purple shade, ruffle detail and the cinched waist of this strapless dress....I must admit the back of the dress caught my eye more than anything else.

Isn't she adorable? I caught this '80s Lovin' Harajuku-meets-NYC girl, just three blocks from Bryant Park. Just a week after a 90-degree heat stretch cooled to an overcast 60/70 degree range, she kept her look spring/summer fresh with a lil' fall -- opaque tights and a vintage lunch box bearing a Renaissance art-inspired print.

Brooklyn is truly the breeding ground for the world's finest artists, creatives and indie fashion designers. Yesterday, while perusing the African inspired wares at BAM's annual Dance Africa! festival; I caught up with Lisa, the designer behind a collection of one-of-a-kind handcrafted accessories, that she calls "wearable art."
Rocking her own ruffled denim scarf and silver jewelry set,she completes her look with vintage shades and an animal themed straw hat. Though she recently cut off her signature afro, her line still carries the moniker of Mad Big Fro .

Annie Basulto's funky, fashion forward accessories (take style note of the unusual mixing of the chain link earrings and the baubles on the shoulder bag) are what caught my eye across the room last night; upon closer inspection it turns out that this fashionista was actually the designer behind her pieces, which she calls Cubannie Links. When I asked her about the inspiration behind her collection she said, "It's all for the love of jewels!" I can get with that.

I love a man who can really put himself together, and The Sartorialist just profiled one such man -- band leader Michael Arenella. Sure, it's a retro look not everyone can pull off. But a cream suit jacket, blue slacks, and oxfords never looked so good.

How fly is this fashionista? Drenched in sunlight and wearing a Mona Lisa like smirk, she told me to create her Curbside story. Ha!

Okay... so she's Irish, an au pair to Andy Warhol's grandchildren (work with me) by day and an incredibly popular burlesque dancer by night...or she fell so in love with The Devil Wears Prada, that she chained herself to a park bench outside of Vogue's offices until Anna Wintour gave her a lowly intern position.

Whatever her deal is, I'm totally diggin' her felt, black raffia hat.

As much as I am over all things '80s, I couldn't help but snap these wonder twins. Dressed like they just stepped out of LL Cool's Around the Way Girl video, Coco & Breezy not only belong to a retro crew, but model, dance and design. Love it! Check out our Kanye-inspired shades, retro tees and funky leggings to get this day-glo look.

Related Links: If you're a lil' scared of neon, Nina Garcia's got some ideas how to light things up without blinding anyone.

So, the new way to spot a fake Gucci (or "Fucci") belt is if someone's wearing it like a Miss America sash. As I walked down Canal Street on my way to meet a friend for dinner this past Friday, I saw two dudes sporting their Fucci belts across their chests as they brokered deals with tourists for more of the fake stuff. Hakim paused to pose for me before returning to handle his business. If you want the real thing, get your Gucci here -- and send a letter to Diane Von Furstenberg.

Anna was standing over me on the Queensbound E train when I snapped her in her key lime pie-green sateen trench, print scarf, argyle knee-hi socks and rosette-buttoned ankle booties. I loved the way she mixed spring's acid color trend with fall's cloud-gray pieces. And I loved even more that she wore this to her job as a paralegal. Yay for workplace self-expression!

Whew. And you thought Fashion Week was exahusting. We've just returned from Magic in Las Vegas, where some 120,000 people from 80 countries either exhibited or came to check out some 5,000 brands of clothing and accessories. (The convention center where the event was held is 3.2 million sq. ft.) The most exciting space was again the "streetwear" floor, where the Rocawears, Sean Johns, Baby Phats and such of the world constructed massive, sometimes two-story mini stores to display their goods. Of course, peeping folks individual styles were another big draw, and here you see Nesha of L.A. Though she gets like, a million points on her hair alone, her purple passion as expressed through Gap jeans, Artful Crafty top along with Chanel bangles (you don't see her Nike high tops with purple slouch socks) made her a hit even among the crowds.

It's really no big surprise that Megin, 24, is a fashion design student hailing from Fishtown, where she's about to decorate her new loft with the same philosophy she has for fashion: "Grab what I find and put it together!" But Megin's secret is making sure she scoops up only what she's in love with, whether it be her dark mustard-colored scarf from a street vendor in London, her grandmom's old boots, her amazing Viktor & Rolf coat or her big pair of '70s glasses, tinted purple.

I honestly ran back two blocks to catch up with Joey because he was so fabulous. This FIT design student manages to rock Betsey Johnson stilettos, skinny jeans, a Birkin bag and a turban sealed with a beautiful pendant. When I asked him what was going to be his signature item, he shouted, "The turban, I'm going to make it the new baseball cap!" My instincts tell me he probably will.

At Kimora Lee Simmons' Fall '08 show, my row mate and show buddy pointed out Jan Arnold's sick Gaultier coat.

On the Brooklyn bound F Train, I couldn't stop staring at Angela's Issey Miyake bag and Lanvin coat -- "A very big gift," she told me. Wonder what she's getting for Christmas.

We spotted Kiki, 30, during a coffee run, getting some much-needed caffeine for a chilly, dreary Monday. She wrapped herself in this adorable grey and navy plaid coat by Calvin Klein -- the pockets are deep enough to hold her iPod, her keys, and the multitude of pens this grad student always carries. The bold pleating, oh-so-sweet empire waist and gently puffed sleeves amp function up to fashion. She tops that off with a black scarf from the local H&M for maximum toasty-ness, rounding out her outfit with simple leggings and bright hues: lace-less aqua slip-ons from Kate Spade and a worn-in teal Aldo bag. "I've had it for ages, but it still holds all the crap I need to hold and hasn't broken yet!"

I met Ietef H. while promoting the Affordable Textbook Campaign on the Auraria Campus. He was kind enough to write a hand-written letter to our legislator and while doing so, I noticed his funky outfit. I couldn't help but take a quick pic. Turns out, his outfit is indeed fascinating. The sports coat was bought at a thrift store in Denver, but it's from Barneys New York and made in Italy -- it was a steal for $20. So were his $45 Banana Republic jeans, also found at a thrift store. The beautiful hand-made shirt is from Kenya and bought at a local market for $30. The cool hat is Knox and was bought by his great-great-grandfather at the old Denver Dry Goods Store downtown. Add the camouflage Vans shoes, the political Malcolm X flair and this Metro State Music & African-American Studies student is ready to rock the house.

Related Links: Big prints, good deals.

Once you get through the tweed and cord blazers, the exasperated stares of overworked students intensely drinking espresso and socializing with other angst-ridden, straight-jean wearing friends, you'll find people like Erica, a free lovin', color-friendly iconoclast who could be a dead ringer for Vivienne Westwood and adores shopping in her free time. "I love to mix designers," says Erica, sporting an Evelin Brandt jacket from Berlin, a Sigal Dekel t-shirt from Israel, an Aurora skirt and red Dansko shoes -- a welcome breath of sunshine in the midst of all things Harvard.

Related Links: Find your own inner muse in a pair of red shoes.

I was walking down Peachtree in the heart of Midtown, Atlanta, when I spotted Gizzelle in her chic black and white outfit. At the time, I wasn't even looking for style on the street, but I just had to catch up with her and take her picture. It was no surprise to hear that Gizzelle is in a glamorous profession as a fashion designer and well-known tailor to local hipsters, professionals, and even a few celebrity clients. For Gizzelle, style is all about personal touches. She customized the inexpensive white dress she's wearing by adding the band of black lace to the bottom, bringing the stylish factor way up. Gizzelle is currently working on her spring 2008 line, so keep up with what's new with her at www.gizzellejames.com. She is wearing a black blazer by Tahari, which she got at Neiman Marcus Last Call; a restyled white dress from another outlet store that she cannot remember; black peep-toe pumps from Nine West; and a Marc Jacobs Stam bag.

Related Links: A white dress with black detailing and a Marc Jacobs handbag? Perfect.

We spotted Rachel M. getting her shop on near Anthropologie, the same place where she snagged this adorable and delicate black velvet dress. The bold yellow sash highlights the flattering empire waist, and the polka dots make a dangerously luxe fabric more fun than formal. After all, that's what this 22-year-old student loves: "clothes with a sense of happy." And don't forget to add a pinch of sumptuous; her flat sandals are from a buttery leather, embellished with slate-colored metal details. "They're sexy enough thanks to the straps, but are totally comfortable and practical since they're flat," she says. Right now, she can't wait to break out her tights of many colors – yellow, aubergine, teal, and the usual suspects of black and brown – when there's finally a chill in the air. We bet they'll add a dash of happy to whatever she's wearing!

Kara N., age 19, was looking très chic on her way to her French class at the University of Minnesota. Kara, a journalism major, is a sophomore at the University; she makes the most of her fashion by finding fabulous deals. Her Kenneth Cole dress was found for $15 at Macy’s and her peep toe BCBG flats were found at TJ Maxx. Top it off with a slouchy bag, dangly accessories, and oversized sunglasses and this simple dress is classic street fashion! Another familiar fashionista to street fashion is Kara's style icon, Carrie Bradshaw, mainly because "we have the same hair."

Related Links: Who doesn't love a deal from Kenneth Cole?

More street fashion straight from the tents at Bryant Park. If it's not enough, check out The Sartorialist's finds. If it's too much, check out The Sortorialist.

Some of the city's most fashionable hovering outside the Bryant Park tents.

Amongst a crowd of tees and jeans, Kathleen’s pinstripe shirt dress was a welcome standout. As she put down her bulging shopping bags to give me a proper pose, I could tell this girl was a pro. The up and coming actress has individual style, but still shows the influence of Atlanta’s huge sneaker culture by pairing her ladylike dress with colorful kicks. I spotted her in Little Five Points, her favorite Atlanta shopping neighborhood, hitting up all best places to find her favorite stuff - vintage and renewal clothing. Kathleen is wearing a dress and belt from a thrift store, a vintage Dooney & Burke bag, and shoes by Ed Hardy.
--the fashion cult

Related Links: So cute. So easy. The striped day dress.

Katie, 21, made a big impression on us with her mod-inspired vintage finds. But we weren't the only ones! She made it onto the jumbo video screens at the Virgin Music Festival in Baltimore, Maryland. This theater design major hightailed it north from Asheville, North Carolina, in her super-comfy Rocketdog flats, keeping it cute, if not incognito, in sleek '70s shades, where we found her in the front row during Peter, Bjorn and John's set. Her vintage print dress would be at home on Twiggy -- no surprise here, considering the '60s icon is Katie's fashion idol...along with Geri Blank (Amy Sedaris’ geriatric high school-er from "Strangers with Candy"). For the fall, though, Katie is aspiring to look a little more hip-professional than hip-replacement-candidate (a la Blank): "I'm on the lookout for high-waisted, wide-leg trousers," she says.

We weren't surprised to find Jackie B. looking for some plain tops to play with at American Apparel. After all, her favorite thing to do "is to change things up." This 20-year-old Penn student stayed true to that concept when she paired an Anthropologie jumper and Balenciaga bag with affordable Kmart slip-ons and a T-shirt from Gap, expertly joining quirky and luxe. But like her fashion idol (and Marc Jacobs' cohort) photographer Cindy Sherman, simply mixing it up wasn't enough. Jackie used a gold necklace to lengthen the strap on her bag and took a pair of scissors to her gray-and-baby-blue-striped former-crewneck shirt. Top it off with super nerd-chic glasses -- "the kind the army used to prescribe." -- and voila!

Related Links: Join a cute jumper and slip-ons with something special.

I discovered Wendy sitting on a park bench enjoying the great weather in Des Moines, Iowa. As a local gal and a broke college student, she loves shopping anywhere thrifty and second-hand or wherever there are good sales. She found her glasses and her striped jersey dress at H&M on sale. Her necklace is from Goodwill, and her bag is from the local thrift store, Crowded Closet.

Related Links: Keep cool in a striped tank dress and shades.

We spotted Erin S. strolling Royal Street’s boutiques and galleries on the first Saturday of Jazz Fest. Ladylike and still a little funky, the assistant boutique manager says she developed her style with an eye on comfort first, uniqueness second. The New Orleans native managed to look cool on a sweltering day in her colorful skirt, tank and shrug. But the 25-year-old hasn’t always been so put-together and admits that her worst fashion mistake involved oversized khaki pants. We think she’s doing just fine these days. What she’s wearing:

+ skirt – Duo
+ lace camisole- American Eagle
+ shrug – Target
+ shoes – Journeys
+ sunglasses- Sweet Pea and Tulip
+ jewelry – Urban Outfitters and Finds from the local French Market
+ purse – a custom-ordered bag from Moe Bag out of Austin.

-- Arin

It was a typically hot summer day on the east side of Atlanta and Erin was keeping cool in this tummy-baring top with skinny jeans. Not many can pull off a look like this, but she tied the outfit together with hot pink top and matching fat laces (love them!). Erin was out shopping with friends without a single bag in her hands -- not even a purse! She takes a similarly laid back approach to fashion, having no real favorite stores or designers. “I just wear what I like,” she says. Her pink T-shirt from and belt are from a thrift store, the grey jeans are by Luxe at Urban Outfitters, and shoes by Vans from an outlet store.
--the fashion cult

We found Lauren W. at Salt Lake City's arts festival, where, shall we say, much of the style on display was a little rough around the edges. Her bright flowy dress stood out in the crowd, as did her big smile and friendly demeanor. Not many can pull off a curve-hugging piece like this 20-year-old Nashville native can! We chatted a bit about fashion and when she mentioned her favorite accessory -- a certain gun pendant necklace -- her friend gasped in disbelief and punched her in the arm. Turns out it was her friend's necklace, not hers.
+ dress: Forever 21
+ shoes: Journeys
+ bag: Old Navy
+ ring & earrings: Forever 21
+ bracelets: her sisters (clearly she likes borrowing accessories)
--Shelly

Interior designer Jessica H. was on her way to Rittenhouse Park with a friend when we spotted her. Though she confessed she's really on the lookout to score some bright yellow dresses this summer, she was rocking this satin purple trapeze-y frock from The Limited. As a recent graduate, it makes sense that Jessica is a big fan of regal plums and mauves right now “because the color represents and attracts money.” We're sure she saved on her adorable leather clutch -- it was a vintage find in her grandmother's closet! And even though her shoes were sensible, too -- metallic Steve Madden flats for walking the city -- she hardly looked stuffy. In fact, we think she looked rather breezy and sophisticated. Nice work, Jessica!
-- Jaimie

Regina is a Fashion student at Florida International University, and works as a sales associate in Diane von Furstenberg boutique. She certainly has a very Miami fashion sensibility -- modern beach chic. Appropriately, Regina’s favorite fashion find is always a great dress, which makes her feel feminine and at ease. She's wearing a dress by DVF, her sandals are by Mystique, her oversized gray leather bag Isabella Fiore, and she's rocking her own leather bracelets and bangles.

We met Brooklyn-based DJ Patrick Rood, 25, on his way to a photo shoot in Soho (look for him in the August issue of XLR8R magazine). He told us he spun electro and house but we saw the first Fugees record on that little hand-truck of his so we guess he's sort of a Renaissance man. Style-wise he's a prince. He told us he likes to shop vintage in Williamsburg (Mishka, Beacon's Closet) but when it's time to get dressed, he just wears what feels right. Today he's he’s feeling modern:

Tee-shirt and gray plastic necklaces: Name Ribbon
Skinny Jeans: Trash and Vaudeville. "I had to buy them when I worked as a personal assistant to (performance artist) Terence Koh. His entire staff has to wear all-white."
Sneakers: Vans
Backpack: 555 Soul

Related Links: Rood says he likes the way vibrant colors look on a dance floor, hates seeing black at night, so if you want him to play that request, you'd better be shining out.

Deep in the Minneapolis Uptown shopping district, we found fashion heartbreaker Jamie O., who, as it turns out, also works at the boutique Heartbreaker. This sales associate showed up to work in this adorable layered get-up. Jamie gave her miniskirt a funky, classier look by sheeting it over a simple pair of black leggings and a pair of dainty black flats. Jamie’s classic black t-shirt is then funked up by her eye-popping green scarf. Jamie says that if she could dress like any one person every day it would be Edie Sedgwick.

Related Links: If you don't have 'em, you'll need 'em: ballet flats and leggings.

We found this cute couple in the parking garage on the way back from a concert. Zach and Katie have been together for two years and say they have started dressing alike by accident -- oops! “His entire style has changed in the two years we’ve known each other," Katie told us. "I think I have influenced a lot of that.” Katie loves dresses for their great appeal with minimal effort, “ I don’t want to spend hours picking out an outfit. That’s why dresses are perfect -- you throw them on and look great all day.”

Zach: gap jeans, H&M shirt.
Katie: Forever 21 dress

Related Links: Stock up for easy mornings.

Erica S. lives and works in Houston, TX. We love her clean, crisp summer look. She's wearing:
+ shirt - Target
+ shorts - Abercrombie and Fitch
+ shoes - Aldo
+ necklace - Aldo
+ influences: Gwen Stefani, music, and "my personality equals my style."
+ favorite shops: thrift stores, American Apparel, and Urban Outfitters

Related Links: White and yellow screams summer to us.

We spotted this lovely girl at the CU Denver Spring Fling at the Auraria campus. Sophie T. is from Denver, Colorado, by way of Paris. Need I say more? Her major is International Affairs and French and this 21-year-old is hoping someday she'll import her own fashionable picks form France. She loves being creative with her clothes, cutting and customizing, or simply adding accessories to work with whatever is on her mind. In this case, the long gray shirt is from the Urban Outfitters for $19, the Diesel inside black shirt she confesses she "stole" from her older sister who bought it in Paris for $50, skirt from Forever 21 for $17, add a belt from an old pair of jeans, feminine pantyhose for $10, flats from Keds ($25), with handmade legwarmers from one of dad's old sweaters and voila la student!

Related Links: Get the look with a black tank layered under a gray dress paired with flats and DIY legwarmers.

Mandy E., 19, of Hollywood works as a photographer, filmmaker and assistant manager at Hot Topic. Fiance Eddie N., 25, works in music management. They come to the Coachella Music Festival in Indio every year and they're in total agreement about two things: that this year's best-dressed band was Interpol and that The Red Hot Chili Peppers were the worst.

Mandy's wearing:
Boots: Target
Skirt: H&M
Simpsons shirt: Hot Topic
Necklaces: A sparrow from Forever 21 and a skull from H&M.
Ruby ring from Pieces of Eight store in Disneyland.
Mandy says the one can’t-live-without item in her bag (Target) is her Nikon N-2000: "It was my mom's. It's older than me. It never fails." She's also toting a pair of leg warmers that she’s planning to wear tonight.
Mandy's style-icon: Edie Sedgwick. "Sienna (Miller) did a great job (in the recent film.)"

Eddie's wearing:
Vans that Mandy illustrated. They're his only can't-live-without item. "They're so great because she made them for me."
Jeans: Levis 514s
Belt: Hollywood Boulevard
Tee-shirt: American Apparel
Says of Mandy: "She looks great in short, flowy dreses."

Cute as a button. That's what we thought when we came upon Jen O. in a restaurant in the Marigny, New Orleans' hippest neighborhood. The diminutive doll makes a big statement with a few key items. Her dress, from local design emporium Fabrik, speaks volumes about this season's empire waist. "I'm crazy about little dresses for summer. They just look so sweet," says this local style-maker. And just to make sure things don't get too saccharine, she anchors the outfit with Gianni Bini boots ($350 dollars bought on sale for $40) and adds a splash of color with her Urban Outfitters necklace and sunglasses frm French Market, a local flea market. "I love dressing up," the 33-year-old told us. "Fashion is about playing around with things... I'll spend $400 on something I love, but most of the time I just find inexpensive pieces and throw them together."

Up-and-coming artsy neighborhoods always seem to spawn a look of their own. Much like New York's Williamsburg, Miami's Wynwood Art District has its own style. Totally deserted and undeveloped a few years ago, this undiscovered gem is becoming a Miami art institution. The second Saturday of each month is host to the Wynwood Art Walk, where you will surely see the most stylin' eye candy you can handle in one evening. Take Kate for instance -- with her understated elegance, she is a quiet trendsetter. A student at the University of Miami, this Florida native says her fashion sense is very whimsical, and loves wearing her mom's perfectly preserved vintage duds mixed with accessories from her travels. She discovered her most treasured fashion find for 2 dollars in Laos. She's wearing:

+ dress by Urban Outfitters
+ her mom's handbag from the 70s
+ t-strap heels by Michael Kors
+ bracelet from Laos, rings from Mexico, New York and Asia, plus a vintage necklace

Related Links: Can't go wrong with a white dress, haute t-straps and a 70s handbag.

Even in Atlanta's hip Little Five Points, a neighborhood that tends to draw people that dress to their own drummer, Libby B. is a style standout. I spotted her just outside the shop where she bought her white sunglasses. They're the perfect foil to her western boots and fringe-y scarf, which she wears so effortlessly. She made the necklaces she's wearing from components she purchased in Israel, where she's studying International Relations. Libby is wearing:

+ dress by Proenza Schouler for Target
+ sweater from her favorite place to shop, H&M
+ scarf from a thrift store in Denver
+ boots from Zara, Tel Aviv
+ handmade necklaces
+ sunglasses from Clothing Warehouse

Related Links: We love chunky boots and a little black dress.

We secretly stalked this woman at Forever 21 at the Grove in Los Angeles, hoping to snap a photo before she took off. Patience stood out from the teenybopper mall crowd with her retro-cute dressed-up look so unusual in casual-land. Turns out Patience M., 30, just moved from Ohio, where she was a designer and stylist. She's wearing:
+ vintage dress from Value World in Cleveland, Ohio
+ white patent leather platforms from Nine West
+ faux Stephen Sprouse Louis Vuitton, bought on Canal Street in NYC.
Best fashion find: $27 vintage Salvatore Ferragamo flats in a thrift store.
On seeing Harvey Weinstein, who was ostentatiously hanging out at the mall, chatting on his cell phone: "I love Marchesa!"
On her own style: "I believe I'm more New York than L.A.," Patience told us. "Everyone is really Abercrombie out here."

We stopped 31-year-old Echo on Market Street in San Francisco. Although the calendar said it was the dead of winter, it was so toasty outside, she didn't need a jacket! But after chatting up this tiny fashionista, we kinda wonder what fab coat she would have sported, had the temperature been so non-wintery. We love how her semi-bohemian duds flatter her small frame, without being too loose.
She told us she aims to look "elegant, but effortless. Casual,
but not too crazy." We think she nailed it. She's wearing:

+ a vintage dress she bought in the UK for $20.
+ a sweater from Banana Republic (a gift)
+ leather boots from Ferragamo (ditto. hey, can we be friends with your friends, too?)
+ distressed bag from H & M, which cost another $20.
+ sunglasses from a street vendor in London for a cool $12.

We caught Krista W. before she bundled up like the Michelin Woman to brave the -15 degree weather in Omaha, Nebraska. This 34-year-old photographer learned the art of layering away the chill on the cold streets of New York. But it's tough looking hot when it's so cold. "Nobody, not even the usually stylish people, looks cute right now," Krista says. She's wearing:
+ skirt - vintage Italian design, bought at Salvation Army, "I get compliments on this skirt almost more than anything I own."
+ top #1 - dappled cocoa-colored wool rollneck sleeveless turtleneck, handconstructed, bought at Goodwill Industries.
+ top #2 - short-sleeved cropped fuzzy sweater-jacket, by Stella bought online on eBay. "I'm thinking of using it as a security blanket for my burgeoning second childhood," Krista says.
+ top #3 - burgundy cocoon shrug sweater-cardigan, by Say What? bought online from Alloy.com, "I have 3 of these, also in beige and black, they go with everything!"
+ shoes - caramel-hued Earth leather flats.
+ bracelet - bent fork bought from street vendor in front of the Guggenheim museum in New York.
+ Anything else? "I also have three unseen layers of leg-sheltering tights, socks and long underwear on beneath that skirt."

Fashion Finds: "Once I found a Dolce & Gabbana pencil skirt in perfect condition at a Goodwill in Oregon for $7!!!"
Best Local Shopping: "The thrift stores here are less likely to jack up prices exorbitantly like they do in L.A. and NYC."
Style Secrets: "If you don't absolutely love it, don't buy it. You'll only leave it sitting in your closet and/or you'll get rid of it later."

Related Links: Long skirts are coming up for spring.

The story at the Bryant Park tents is all about keeping warm yet stylish in coats and boots. Anything for fashion, right?

Related Links: Can't live without a little protection from the elements.

Our fashion find in Portland, Maine? A very uncheesy Bri B., clad in layers stylish enough to keep her warm and just enough edge to make one take notice. Bri says she loves to shop second hand stores so she can create her own look, which, we think she does well.
Bri is wearing:
+ cable-knit vest and hoodie from Goodwill
+ Free People tweed mini skirt
+ her roommate's textured tights
+ Earth clogs

Related Links: Cable knit's a hit, especially with textured leggings and flats.

What came first, winter or Christine V.? We're going for the latter. We caught up with her on the streets of Cape Cod, Mass., as she frantically searched for a good manicure (she was visiting from Brooklyn), looking for someone, anyone, to help her accomplish her mission. Thank goodness we're everywhere. Mission accomplished. Christine is wearing:
+ classic goat Pajars
+ down North Face jacket
+ Guatemalan hat and gloves from a New York City street vendor
+ Nine West glasses

Related Links: A vision in white.

How cool do these two look chilling in Williamsburg, Brooklyn on a frigid afternoon? Denton and Claudia, both 30, hail from Montreal where four-foot snow drifts and temperatures of 15-below mean they're not sweating winter in New York. Claudia, a graphic designer, speaks mostly French so Denton translates when she tells me she's wearing:

A brown leather coat with rabbit fur trim bought vintage in Montreal. (Denton gives it two thumbs up.)
Skinny black wool pants by Jean Covet
Black vinyl shoulder bag by The People Have Spoken
Sneakers by Converse.

Claudia's must-have winter item: Pajar boots. "Very expensive," she tells me.

Denton sings in Montreal-based band, The Monarchy. He's wearing:

No-name aviators which Claudia digs.
Montreal-bought bomber jacket with shearling-trim
Brown hoodie by Groggy
Black jeans by H&M
Sneakers by Converse
Black leather driving gloves

Denton says of their street-style, "I think it's quite obvious that we're from the Great North." Someplace great, anyway...btw...is that a six-pack in the bag?

December on Cape Cod in Massachusetts, time for bowls of chowder, chestnuts roasting on an open fire and... off the shoulder sweaters? Let's hear it for warm spells so we could see Courtney B. out for a day of coatless shopping. Her mission? To find a suitable gift for her boyfriend. The outcome? Plans for buying an army parka for herself right after this photo. Courtney is wearing a Victoria's Secret sweater, Seven jeans, skull-emblazoned cap, camouflage tote and Steve Madden boots.

Related Links: Let's hear it for off-the-shoulder sweaters and a perfect pair of jeans.

We caught Kevin C. in a rare dry moment outside the offices of Portland Monthly magazine, where the 38-year-old is an assistant to the publisher. A well-known drag performer by night, Kevin's workday attire is considerably more muted than his alter-ego, Poison Waters. Kevin's wearing:

+ grey raincoat: Gap
+ black-and-grey striped Alfani sweater: "I don a uniform of black and grey in the winter months. There are so many events right after work, it's easy to appear 'dressed up' while in my signature black."
+ black Kenneth Cole slacks: "I bought every color and pattern at a recent sale when Macy's took over our downtown Meier & Frank store."
+ black Cole Haan shoes: "Today I'm in one of my many pairs of black. Who needs so many? I do!"
+ Argyle socks: "I found the missing mate to this favorite argyle pair this morning in my underwear drawer."
+ Umbrella: "It's my best accessory."

Related Links: Go from day to evening in black wool Gucci.

We met Lanie, 38, in Hoboken, New Jersey, on her way to work at the swanky offices of Penthouse magazine. As a publicist for the racy mag, Lanie says, "I'm on the road with Penthouse pets a lot so I buy a lot of stuff at airports." The result is a style she describes as "dimestore chic." Lanie's wearing:

+ pink hunting cap: "It had these long pompoms on it. I thought it made me look stupid. This morning I cut them off and it looks much better."
+ sunglasses: Strawberry
+ burgundy rabbit fur jacket: Strawberry.
+ skirt: H&M
+ pink fishnets: DKNY "I work above Penn Station where there's the most kick-ass stocking store. I just run in there whenever I need stockings."
+ black platform boots: Steve Madden
+ handbag: Amsterdam airport

About the Penthouse pets: "They all wear these low in the hip, very expensive Azzure jeans. I try not to dress like them. I don't wanna look like I'm trying to compete."

Related Links: Fit for your inner Penthouse pet: pink rabbit boots.

Apparently theses ladies take their work home with them, because everything you see is vintage and was bought at Buffalo Exchange in Denver, CO, where they all work. We caught up with them at an "Art & Soul" exhibition opening in Boulder earlier this month. Lilly M., left, is 24 years old and manages the Buffalo Exchange; she bought the orange dress for $14 and boots for $18. What a steal! Assistant manager Marika E. is 21 years old; her purple striped dress was $60, her 1960s Boss scarf was $6, she got her Larry Mahans cowboy boots for $80 and her "faux" glasses to complete the look. Colby B. is 23, produces fashion shows and is also a manager the the Exchange. Her hat was a $35 vintage find, the sweater is Susanna Monaco for $35, $165 Red Engines jeans, boots are from Tony Lama and bag from Mark Jacobs. Her necklace is also vintage and it was a gift. She had to admit that her entire outfit was created around the hat.

Related Links: Best of the three: vintage-look floral dress, red cowboy boots, Marc Jacobs bag.

Carrie B., a 29-year-old elementary school teacher in Washington D.C., caught our eye inside D.C.'s metro station. Her classic wrap dress was a steal at H&M and her vintage purple suede coat added just the right amount of color to her entire outfit. Carrie stands tall in her stacked Steve Madden boots. "I love Cameron Diaz because she is a natural beauty," Carrie told us. "She also had a 'tomboyish' quality to her that makes her look relaxed in whatever she wears."

Related Links: Rock the look with this black and white floral print dress and a grape coat.

Summer C., a 26-year-old actress in Nashville, TN, beat off the fall chill with a cute gray caplet from Theory, a starry top from C&C California and a hot cup of joe. She usually prefers a ladylike dress and tights over jeans, but her Citizens of Humanity denim fit the bill. We love her playful classic Converse shoes and elegant oversized Chloe bag. What irks Summer most? "I don't like it when people are too matchy matchy," Summer told us. "People need to have personality in an outfit."

Related Links: A little fun, a little fancy.

Morgen S. and Rachael D. work for Black Chandelier, a super-hip emporium in Salt Lake City, UT. Despite their cool jobs, these girls still love looking for vintage. "I could never leave because of the thrift stores," says 25-year-old Salt Lake City native Morgen, who vouches the thrift scene there is the best in the west. She's wearing:

+ top: Savers thrift store
+ jeans: Wrangler
+ wristlet: made it herself
+ thrift store bag printed on by Black Chandelier
+ Adidas wrestling boots from Thrift Town

Rachael, right, is wearing:
+ top and shoes by Black Chandelier
+ shorts by Black Chandelier

We spotted Erin W., a 30-year-old interior designer, at the new Denver Art Museum that opened earlier this month. She was quite a work of art herself. She got the dress from a store in Cherry Creek, but couldn't remember its name; bummer since the black "tube" dresses are so in. The tights are an H&M buy, and were a present from a friend in Sweden. Shoes are Jessica Simpson for $70-ish, and the biggest accessory to complete this retro outfit is the bag, bought from the Urban Outfitters for $50-$60. Her boyfriend calls the bag a "baby kidnapper accessory"...hmm...creepy!

Related Links: Strappy op-art shoes, black dress, zebra-print hobo.

Bahar S. considers herself a tomboy but we say she's anything but in these gold bloomers. The Brooklyn designer says her tent dresses, fitted bodices and flowy draped silhouettes are designed primarily for her, but if we just happen to be a "cultivated consumer" who wants to revel in organic fibers, we too can wear her designs. Sign me up, Bahar, and by the way, we love your name. Bahar is wearing a Parsuco blouse, a revolver charm necklace, bamboo peeptoe wedges, and her own gold bloomers.

Related Links: Wool blend shorts for fall, paired with ruched leggings and a velvet blazer for city nights.

Krissie G.'s eye-catching sexy style instantly caught our eye during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in Los Angeles. This L.A.-based self-proclaimed jack of all trades works as a stylist and visual display artist for H&M. Who's the girl Krissie admires most? Kirsten Dunst for her "effortless L.A. casual look." Krissie's vintage bag and jacket were purchased at a thrift store in the Valley. Her dress is made by H&M and her fabulous hunter green tall boots are by Miss Sixty.

Related Links: Play with red and green.

We gravitated towards Rulan as she made her way out of a hip teahouse in Santa Fe. This choreographer describes her style as "global indigenous"-- lots of color, fab fabric combos, and a wicked flair for putting it all together. She's wearing:
+ wrap top: hand-me-down from a ballerina in NYC.
+ hot pink tee: Target (she doesn't like to spend more than $15 on anything)
+ shoes: Ross Dress For Less.
+ dangly earrings: H&M in NYC.
+ belt: put together from some ethnic fabric and some hefty string.
+ skirt: used to be a tube dress until Rulan sliced it up.
+ blue bag: from Oaxaca, Mexico. It reads 'Woman Artisans of the region of Oaxaca' on the side.

Rulan's fashion irks? "I hate cookie cutter styles and dull colors." She's got a serious weakness for scarves and earrings. "I love them because there's inherent movement."

We found Ben, 28, hanging out outside of an art show in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood on a sunny afternoon. He looked like he was wearing a number of thrift store finds, and after talking to the musician, we learned it was kind of true.

He confessed his eye-catching shirt was "borrowed" from a friend in Nashville. He packed it to take home last time he played there and visited for a while. "It happens," he says. It's a really original tunic piece, which he decided to wear backwards. The dark jeans (brand unknown) were a Christmas gift from his mom; the shoes are a whole other story. "I bought them so I could make tap shoes out of them," he says, "the bottoms are flat and I thought I could put metal on the bottom. But I never got around to it."

Related Links: Another vision in green.

Oh to be young and a hipster. Amanda M. of Boston was wasting time shopping (until the bars opened) with a friend from Philly when we spotted the 22-year-old in her skinny jeans, funky bowling shoes and big Jackie-O glasses. The petite Bostonian says she likes unique clothing, handmade duds and is a huge fan of Kowalski shoes (which she's wearing). She admits she is an addicted eBay shopper.

Amanda is wearing:
+ Ma-tru (sh) ka t-shirt
+ J Brand Skinny jeans
+ Kowalski shoes
+ Plastic vintage hoop earrings
+ Hobo bag
+ MoMA watch
+ Wood bangles

Related Links: Add some bias-cut stripes to your skinny jeans.

Seattle's annual Bumbershoot arts festival was full of great style, but Los Angeles-based literacy coach Jean G. stood out among thousands at the incredible Blondie show -- no small feat in 96 degrees. She's wearing:

+ Cotton, polka-dot dress: "Not sure who made it, but I bought it at a store in California called Eagle Rock."
+ Dangly gold-chain-with-black-stone earrings: "They're four inches long. I love them."
+ Vintage gold, Grecian-style sandals.
+ Double silver cuff bracelets: "I bought one and then found another to match it at the St. Vincent de Paul thrift store. I was so excited."
+ Le Sportsac clutch purse: "I think it's from Macy's."
+ Chinese umbrella: "They were handing them out at a wedding I went to. I didn't have to buy it."
+ Supine at her feet: her boyfriend.

Related Links: Be ladylike in this Cynthia Vincent early-fall print dress.

Some of the fabulous looks outside the tents at Bryant Park during spring 2007 ready-to-wear Fashion Week. More street style from The Sartorialist.

We happened upon L.A. locals Sir Jac and Victory E. at the Pool trade show in Las Vegas, where they were doing research as lifestyle and fashion consultants for an athletic shoe company. The duo also make up "The Funk Cabaret," an eclectic groove and soul band. Victory, 26, appeared in "American Idol 3," and Sir Jac, 30, used to be a Prince impersonator, so he wears shades to hide the resemblance. "We fell in love with our clothes when we met," Sir Jac said.
Victory's wearing:
+ earrings: Up Against the Wall in West Hollywood.
+ layered necklace: made by Victory
+ blue shrug: made from a vintage tee by Damsel
+ black tank: Sav On
+ belt: Diesel, plus jewelry added on by Victory
+ jeans: Thai street market
+ bangles: international assortment from India and China
+ shoes: Bakers

Sir Jac is wearing:
+ hat and green shirt: Wasteland
+ tuxedo shirt: Pink
+ medallion necklace: Pirates of the Caribbean premiere
+ sunglasses and pants: vintage
+ tank top: Urban Outfitters
+ shoes: John Fluevog

Related Links: Street smart and funky.

We stumbled upon Bootzi, right, a 22-year-old textile design studentat RISD and Mitzi, 23, a once-and-future psych/neurosci major outside AS220 in downtown Providence. Bootzi is into fluorescents, checks, and thick polyester. Mitzi is into whatever Bootzi designs because, "she's my style icon." They rarely wear something that didn't come from The Salvation Army, a.k.a. "Sal's."

Mitzi's wearing:
Woven cap: Sweater Venture, upstate N.Y.
Tee-shirt: Won in a raffle at this year's 20 Fest.("It was the high point of my week!") She cut off the sleeves.
Zebra-print collar and net shirt: "They're from a dominatrix friend."
Skirt: "Bootzi made it." (Bootzi's wearing a matching skirt.)
Gold cowboy Boots: Target.
Black/white striped pants: Sal's. "They're my favorite pants even though they're a little short and a little loose."

Bootzi's wearing:
Dress: Tailored XXL Dunkin' Donuts shirt (D.D. is huge in R.I. -- go figure.)
Red Raincoat & Pucci-esque scarf: Sal's
Black Crocs: "I can't wear stilettos because my feet are really wide." (We look beyond them to her fuschia stockings and black fishnets and say, "There's more of you to love."

Related Links: There are alternatives to any bad habit, even Crocs.

This is Tobbie O., at a fashion event a week or so ago in Denver. Turns out, she was the producer of the show -- no wonder she was the most fashionable person there! Her dress is Mary Quant -- the 1960s designer that helped popularize the micro-mini. Needless to say, the dress is vintage. The shoes are Jessica Simpson. Two little pony tails and she's good to go!

Related Links: Channel Mary Quant in this.

Gavin B., 22, hails from Peru by way of Long Island, N.Y., and lives in Philadephia, Pa., where he is in his last semester studying animation. He is wearing:
+ A Bathing Ape "Baby Milo" tee
+ A Bathing Ape "Baby Milo" hoodie
+ Porsche aviator sunglasses
+ Diesel Jeans
+ Timberland Boots
+ really good hair

Related Links: Acessorize Philly-style with a refined work boot, aviators and a cute tee.

You've got to love a woman who walks her dog in her heels. Aleksandra, 23, hails from Serbia, lives in Denver, Colorado, and is looking for work in communications. She was on her way to a fashion show when she decided to take her cute dog for a quick walk. She's wearing a black wraparound Mango shirt bought in Moscow for "around 40 bucks," Forever 21 pinstripe shorts (gotta love those at $19.99 a pop) and peep-toe shoes by Aldo. Her purse is Michael Kors. She forgot where she bought it, but she remembers the $350 price tag.

Related Links: If you're out walking the dog, try this black wrap top with cute striped shorts. Don't forget the heels.

Life's rough for a gal who spends her days wining and dining. OK, not really, but 28-year-old part-time harpist Leigh B. does dress for "simple comfort" to teach food and wine classes at Urban Wineworks in Portland, Oregon, and for ensuing hob-nobbing after work. She's wearing:
+ dangly gold earrings from Forever 21. "They were like $3!"
+ painted, sandstone necklace from Africa. "My dad is from South Africa. I love accessories."
+ basic black ruffle shirt from The Gap.
+ Banana Republic jeans. "They are the perfect petite-cut length."
+ strappy gold cork-sole sandals from Target. "They were $15. I love them!"
+ two silver toe rings she's had for eight years. "I have no idea where I got them. Maybe back home in Indiana?"

Related Links: Be like Leigh and spice up your simple style with a stunning summer necklace.

Chicago native and boutique owner Darnice H. has an infectious positive attitude and vibrant style to match. Now 25 years old, Darnice was just 22 when she opened Studio 615, a West Coast-style women's boutique in downtown Nashville. She's wearing:
+ top by Sugar Lips
+ Earnest Sewn jeans
+ sandals by Target
Darnice's style icon is "Girlfriends" star Tracy Ellis Ross. Darnice admires Ross for her eclectic, versatile, vintage funk panache. What bothers our young business owner? "Not staying true to your true self and unoriginal individuals who copy trends" are things that do not sit well with Darnice. True to her own self, Darnice has the kanji characters that stand for "Sincere heart, sincere mind" tattooed on her right arm. This woman is a true diva and her style shows it.

Related Links: A little Earnest here, a little sugar there.

We spied Jennifer, 33, of Red Hook, Brooklyn, at the fabulous Mermaid Day Parade in Coney Island last weekend. She manages in-store displays for Anthropologie and was dressed to kill. When asked where she got her sequined tube-top she said it came from a vintage store in Los Angeles.
Q: "Which one?"
A: "I don't remember. Name a few."
+ cargo shorts by Urban Outfitters (She must've been doing research. Anthopologie's displays blow U.O. away.)
+ rubber rain boots by Marc Jacobs (Not only fashionable but also practical. It rained buckets.)
+ necklace by Thea Grant
+ eyeglasses by Alain Milli, Paris.
+ purse by Tano. "It's really old."
+ Mermaid Parade souvenir sailor hat. "I have family visiting from Wisconsin. My sister bought it for me today."

Related Links: Come rain or shine, colorful rain boots are always cute.

We caught up with Megan, 28, and Jared, 29, out shopping in Portland, Maine.

Megan is all about looking retro; her style icon is Marilyn Monroe. She's wearing:
leopard print packet: "It's vintage"
pants: "It's all vintage!"
shoes: Rocket Dog
skull scarf: from Newbury Comics
cherry purse: (knockoff) Louis Vuitton

Jared's style credo: "I love horror and heavy metal. I mix things up and I like to look scary!" He's wearing:
hat: Dickies
shoes: Vans
black jacket: "I don't know, but I sewed 'Transylvanian hunger' onto it."
pants: "I don't remember."
hoodie: "I'm not really into fashion."

Oversized Belt Buckles: Megan's has a photo of Elvis with The King's name in Old English text, and Jared's is a coffin that opens and closes.

Related Links: Leopard print is always a classic.

We stopped Ashley M., a 29-year-old product manager living in Burlington, Vermont, for her updated vintage look and groovy color combinations.

She's wearing:

minty jacket: bought 10 years ago in a thrift store
burgundy checked pants: Neiman Marcus
mauve button-down shirt: Ninety
yellow bag: April Cornell

Ashley calls her look "classic 1940s" and her style icon is British punk designer Vivienne Westwood.

Related Links: Feel spring in the air with a minty green raincoat, yellow handbag and vintage-look cropped pants.

We caught up with Silver, an 18-year-old aspiring model from Santa Fe, New Mexico, with a skater-punk meets goth-glamazon look. She describes her style as "pretty random. It's a combination of everything." She gravitates towards dark, earth-toned, baggy clothing.

What she's sporting:

+ Circa skate shoes
+ Express Editor pants
+ black tank top, given to her by a friend
+ black bag - it's from Wal-Mart, but she fixed it up by safety-pinning patches and adding buttons.
+ silver bangles - torn off a bag of $2 hair ties.
+ chain necklaces were a gift from her boyfriend.

What makes Silver tarnish? She hates it when girls wear too-small pants. "They should just get pants that fit instead of trying to shove themselves into something."

Related Links: Silvery earth tones.

A film student at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Rica D., 23, has over 60 pairs of shoes and four closets. She likes to mix things up. "I'll wear board shorts one day, and Dior shoes the next," Rica says. This Virginia native is wearing:

+ Hale Bob halter top "From Loehmann's for $40, and I saw it at a hip-hop/trendy store the next week for $200!"
+ Serfontaine jeans
+ Steve Madden beaded wedges
+ Moyna purse, made in India
+ fresh-water pearl and silver necklace from the Philippines
+ earrings (she's got ten pairs in her ears) from random varied places, such as Meijer, Claire's, and a store in Maui.

Fashion trends that make Rica want to stab herself in the eye include
girls who wear words on their butts and those huge white platform flip-flops ("unless you're coming off a boat, you shouldn't be seen in them").

Related Links: Pink halter tops galore, and wedges aplenty.

Kali P., a 20 year-old student in Worcester, Massachusetts, goes for the green to make her eyes stand out. Gold shoes and an oversized orange leather bag complete Kali's "vintage prep" style. "I have a weakness for necklaces and handbags," Kali says. "They tie outfits together."

Kali's wearing:

+ Disney Couture t-shirt
+ green Juicy coat
+ Jasmine Sola jeans
+ Steve Madden pumps
+ Wet Seal belt
+ Michael Kors bag
+ Vintage necklace
+ Tag Heuer watch

Kali likes Nicole Richie's style, but brands fellow "Simple Life" star Paris Hilton the worst. "I like more of a classic look with a few modern twists. I hate it when people wear too many trends at once."

Related Links: We love the carrots and peas combo paired with metallic accents.

Yehjong S. is the proprietor of Tropical Gangsters, a small boutique on Thames Street in Newport, R.I. Can you believe she's 50? She's rocking:

+ jacket: Just In Time (J.I.T.)
+ jeans: Zio (bootleg, darkwash)
+ shoes: sling-back pumps by NANA
+ top: Three tanks: two by Arella, one by Glam.
+ necklace: Zad

Q. How long have you lived in Newport?
A. My husband Steve and I moved up here 27 years ago. We met at Studio 54. I worked the door and Steve was one of the first people to merchandise used clothing to department stores. We connected right away, fell in love with Newport, and never left.

Q. What look best epitomizes Newport?
A. Topsiders, no socks.

Q. It's chilly here! What do you plan to wear when it warms up?
A. Pedal-pushers and cammies.

Q. With Topsiders?
A. No, heels. Always heels.

Related Links: Heels are hard to resist.

Catlin G. is a 24-year-old waitress working in Stowe, Vt. who plans to attend the School of Cosmetology next fall. She describes her style as "diverse, cool, & edgy at times." Catlin's wearing:

+ jacket: Calvin Klein
+ jeans: Bongo
+ belt: Steve Maddan
+ bag: Kathy
+ shoes: Sketchers

Catlin's style icon? "Calvin Klein."

Related Links: Pair this black Mandarin jacket by Da-Nang with this white belt and jeans.

I snapped this shot of Melissa M., recording artist (and Bluefly shopper!), at the Wyndham Hotel in South Florida during Miami's fashion week. She's wearing:
+ Louis Vuitton sunglasses
+ Marc Jacobs boots
+ vintage white dress
+ papier mâché earrings, made in India
+ Chloe handbag
Melissa's style? "Sexy sophisticate."

Related Links: Rock this spring in whites and metallics.

Calling himself a cross between a hesher and a cowboy, Alex R., a 26-year-old graphic designer from Phoenix, Ariz., likes to mix things up. "I find inspiration from bands," he said. "This outfit is straight-up Kings of Leon -- same look almost." Alex is wearing:
+ glasses: Paul Frank
+ shirt: Wrangler
+ jacket: Wrangler
+ jeans: generic
+ shoes: Diesel
+ balloon: a present from someone at work.
"I found this outfit at a thrift store in Phoenix. I like the worn look and I find fantastic T-shirts there."

Related Links: A little bit country and a little bit rock 'n roll.

Sarah W., 31, is an entrepreneur and Los Angeles native living in St. Louis with her husband and her dog, Chulita. "I wear a lot of bright colors when I'm happy," Sarah said. Her favorite stores in town are T.F.A., Retro 101, and Target. Sarah's wearing:
+ tunic - vintage 60's.
+ pants - boys' little league baseball pants.
+ shoes - Sonia Rykiel.
+ gold earrings - from the mall.
+ bag - Sumiko
+ pink leash - PetSmart.
Sarah's style is inspired by Carmen Miranda, Jean Harlow, Debbie Harry, the Lunachicks, and Miss Piggy. Her favorite designers include John Galliano, Alexander McQueen, and Marc Jacobs. "For inspiration only," Sarah said. "I cannot afford their clothes right now."

Related Links: Get ready for spring with some clear slides and a bold pink top.

Jennifer R. works as an executive producer for a commercial photography studio in Cincinnati, Ohio. This veteran thrifter and fashion magazine addict describes her style as a "comfortable and quirky vintage/designer mix." She's wearing:
+ Generra t-shirt
+ Clu dress
+ Salt jeans
+ Nike zoom blazer high-tops
+ Vanessa Bruno tote bag
+ vintage necklace
Jennifer's favorite designers include Martin Margiela, Vanessa Bruno, and Vivienne Westwood.
Grossest outfit ever - dark purple Palmetto's, striped lavender button-down with attached tie, and magenta sweater vest. "This was during my pink-and-purple-only phase in 6th grade," Jennifer said. "I'm sure that my age at the time is a good excuse for the outfit, but it still makes me laugh."

Related Links: Back to the 80s in these pink satin pedal pushers by Vanessa Bruno.

Jenny B. (left) and Morgan P.T. (right) are sales representatives for Nicacelly, a clothing company that mixes fabric like old hip hop shirts, Thai textiles and soy jersey into one-of-a-kind and limited-edition garments. The ladies were working at the Pool fashion trade show in Las Vegas.
+ tops: both wear Nicacelly
+ Morgan's hat: Kangol
+ jewelry: Jenny got her necklace at Hobby Horse thrift store, earrings are also thrift; Morgan's earrings are from Uhuru Movement, one wooden bangle was a gift, the other thrift
+ jeans: Jenny wears James; Morgan is in Seven Jeans
+ shoes: Jenny sports Adidas shell-toe; Morgan's got purple and brown Nikes

Related Links: Viva Las Vegas.

As we bid a final tearful goodbye to New York fashion week, a few more street snaps from Manhattan.

Related Links: Can't have enough cute coats.

Fashion Week always makes it impossible to pick just one stylish soul. A sampling of looks from around the Bryant Park tents.

Related Links: Print coats, tweedy coats, and striped blazers.

Alexia P. is 32, lives in Dallas, Tex., works as an implementation specialist and has a weakness for shoes -- especially high heels. She describes her style as "funky chic without baring too much skin." Alexia's wearing:
+ "gators" shirt: from a souvenir shop in Tunica, Miss.
+ undershirt: American Eagle long tank
+ pants: Forever 21 pants she cut into gauchos
+ shoes: BCBG black siletto pumps
+ bag: Kenneth Cole
+ hat: vintage shop in San Diego, Calif.
Alexia loves labels Arden B., BCBG, Kenneth Cole, and American Eagle. She says: "Always mix colors with basics to liven up wardrobes and give them that extra 'kick'!"

Related Links: Pull it all together with a vintage-look tee, colorful hat and stilettos.

This is Blair M., 55, an artist from Tryon, N.C. (about 40 minutes SE of Asheville). Blair says she dresses according to her mood for the day and loves vintage clothing -- in fact she has pieces from high school that she still likes to wear (her size is still the same!).

+ skirt: Anthropologie
+ cowl-neck sweater: TJ Maxx
+ belt: got it in Mexico
+ leather jacket - Victoria's Secret (from the 80s!)
+ boots - Nine West
+ bag - Kenneth Cole Reaction

She shops mostly from discount stores like TJ Maxx and Marshalls but occasionally will go to Saks Fifth Avenue or her favorite -- Benetton.

Related Links: Cashmere cowl neck and Ken Cole kicks.

Kornell C., 23, is a student at a student at The Art Institute of Fashion Design and Marketing, hails from West Philadelphia, Pa., and says he's been obsessed with fashion for about six years. "Philadelphia has a street fashion somewhat similar to Japan, but not too bright," he says. Kornell's wearing:
+ hat: Von Dutch
+ shirt: Dolce & Gabbana
+ jeans: Diesel
+ shoes: Nike
+ watch: Diesel
+ bag: Diesel
"Just about everyone in Philadelphia is a trend setter."

Related Links: D&G striped cardigan and shades by Diesel.

Rosa A. is a 19-year-old poet from Maine.

+shirt: Classic Girl
+sweater: Heavenly
+pants: Old Navy
+boots: White Mountain
+scarf: Candies
+earrings & headband: Mexicali Blues, a local boutique

When asked to describe her style in just one word, Rosa exclaimed, "Eclectic!" Her style credo? "If the shoe, or boot, or sandal fits... then wear it!" She loves big old buttons, fuzzy stuff and alternative materials.

Related Links: Camo pants + fuzzy red sweater + snow boots = a poetic winter uniform.

Dolly S., 34, is a volunteer at a local non-profit dental clinic by day and enjoys the various nightclubs around Lawrence, Kansas and Kansas City by night.

+ pea coat: SO
+ turtleneck: SML
+ jeans: Britches
+ shoes: from the Jones Store
+ barrel handbag: Guess

Dolly's favorite fashion designer is Bill Blass and her favorite celebrity fashion icon is Nicole Kidman because she has a "sophisticated look but still turns guys' heads!"

Related Links: Cute barrel bags by Burberry and YSL. Fitted pea coat from Kenneth Cole.

When Lynessa B., 24, breaks free from her FedEx uniform after work in Dallas, Texas, she clearly likes to dress up. Her favorite designer is her best friend. "She takes old clothes and revamps them into trendy pieces," Lynessa says. Here's what she's wearing:

+ shirt: her son's old dinosaur tee
+ jeans: Forever 21
+ jacket: her son's baseball jacket from Champs
+ scarf: her mother made it!
+ boots: Agaci Too
+ socks: Hanes

Lynessa's style icons include "anyone who pioneers a new look." Her fashion advice? "Have fun with your clothing and wear pieces that express your individuality."

Related Links: long scarf + skinny jeans + tall boots = all good.

Working for Adidas has its bonuses, especially when you're a product manager for the company's ultra-hip Sport Heritage line. Just ask 31-year-old Eric A., who has more track jackets and sweet kicks in his closet than any human being should be allowed.

+ jacket: Adidas red and white "Peru Football" top. "I love it. It's my favorite from the Fall 2005 line."
+ pants: Diesel. "I've had them for years."
+ black T-shirt: Adidas commemorative World Cup shirt, complete with a sweet rhinestone soccer-field design. "This is great to wear out at night with a blazer, and I didn't have to bedazzle it myself."
+ shoes: Adidas "American Football" cleats in black and white with side fasteners.
+ bracelet: Silver Buddhist "Om" design; he got it in Portland.

Eric prefers an "eclectic, sports meets modern tailored" look, his weakness is shoes (duh) and he's inspired by Alexander McQueen, John Galliano and newest Adidas collaborator, Stella McCartney.

Related Links: Get sporty in this shiny green hooded jacket.

Kate G., 44, is a handbag designer who hails from Boston, but lives in Scottsdale, Ariz. She recently won the Arizona Rising Star Fashion Award for best new accessory designer.

+ top: Studio M from Macy's
+ skirt: Frou Frou
+ handbag: made by Kate!
+ boots: Paolo Corelli "I got them at EJ's in Scottsdale."
+ bracelet: Metal Pointus in Paris
+ earrings: local designer Amy Mac
+ best Scottsdale shopping: Frou Frou and Carole's Couture "I am mostly a jeans and T-shirt gal," says Kate.
+ favorites in her closet: James Jeans, Carmen Marc Valvo, and local designer Stephanie Edge.

Related Links: Cute black tanks and black boots to go with.

Wanda, 37, works in health food stores sales in the Bronx in New York City. She's wearing:
+ platform boots: Dr. J's on Fordham Road, the Bronx.
+ jeans: "They're classic low rise."
+ lacy shirt: "I bought it at Weekends. That's where I buy a lot of my clothes."
+ cropped jacket: A.B. Jean
+ Chanel logo rhinestone earrings: "I got these today as a birthday present."
Happy Birthday! How do you plan to celebrate? "I'll probably go to a movie -- maybe 'Get Rich or Die Trying' -- and go out to eat."
What's your sign? "Scorpio."
How would you describe Scorpio style? "We have our own style."
What are your fashion plans for the coming year? "Cowboy boots."

Related Links: Get your fashion stars aligned with some cowboy boots.

As the new Pope and Reverend Run have recently shown us, servants of the Lord need not dress down these days. Carl L., 27, is a pastor at Wave Church in Virginia Beach, Va. The preacher man is wearing:

+ distressed jacket with pink detailing: local label Shmack
+ shoes: Aldo
+ jeans: Diesel
+ T-shirt: Calvin Klein
+ bag: Foot Locker

Carl's style: "It's kind of eclectic. Put together, but not too put together."

Related Links: Feel like a holy woman in this cross-applique sweater or a cross-printed tank.

And in honor of Mexico's Day of the Dead celebration, we have Stephanie, 15, from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.
+ bondage pants - Trip NYC
+ shirt - Lenore
+ spiked collar - Hot Topic (she added a few extra large spikes to it)
+ dog collar - she can't remember
+ lace arm stockings - Trip NYC
+ shoes - Dug
+ daily style - Stephanie wears all black every day and works very hard at getting ready.
+ why she's wears what she does - "I like to see people's reactions. When people look at me all weird, I think it's funny."

Related Links: Discover your inner goth princess with this dress by Tufi Duek.

When asked what he did for a living, "Mr. Bojangles" replied, "I'm a lover." He's also a singer and an artist originally from Belize. He lives in Los Angeles, Calif.
+ sequined and cropped U.S. Army tee: can't remember where it's from.
+ rhinestone choker: "It's just something I threw on."
+ jeans: by Solid. "It's really not the name, it depends on if your work is quality."
+ Gucci-print backpack: can't remember.
+ Louis Vuitton-print underwear: "Everything magically appears."
+ terrycloth cuff: Tonik.
+ cowboy boots: can't remember.
+ scorpion belt buckle: "I don't want to look back into the past."
+ ice cream: place on Melrose Avenue.

Fashion advice: "Just be yourself. Whatever you are on the inside is going to show on the outside."
Based on how you're dressed today, how do you feel inside? "I feel bubbly -- like Champagne."

Related Links: Stacked heel cowboy boots, "Sold My Soul to Rock + Roll" polo, and patched jeans by Helmut Lang.

Amy G. and Dominick C. are a crafty couple visiting Chicago from California. "We're from Oakland and there's just so much cleavage in Chicago!"

Amy's wearing:
+ shoes: Bronx
+ dress: got it from a dress trade
+ sweater: the tag says South Korea
+ purse: made by prisoners in a Honduras jail -- "The political correctness of this purchase cancels out the sweatshop sweater," Amy says.
+ earrings: Mary Meyer, an Oakland, Calif., designer
Dominick's wearing:
+ shoes: Converse
+ jeans and shirt: Wrangler

Dominick's worst fashion moment according to Amy: "Oh my, for him
there are so many. Probably that sleazy handlebar mustache he had in
the 90s, along with all those big earrings."
Amy's worst fashion faux paus according to Dominick: "Definitely those
spandex crotch snap body suits -- the whole collection of them." Ah, love.

Related Links: Cute western shirt for the gents. Ladies, keep your cleavage in check with this white belted halter dress.

Zoe is a 29-year-old aesthetician living in St. Petersburg, Florida. She's wearing:

+ swimsuit: Mudd
+ skirt: Charming USA
+ hat and belt: Forever 21 (believe it or not, you can find good things there)
+ earrings; Bebe
+ jewelry: "When I was 17 my mom took me to a mall in Atlanta to get a belly ring. I haven't taken it out since."
+ favorite designers: BCBG, Louis Vuitton, Gucci.
+ best look: sexy dresses, high heels.

Related Links: Forever summertime with BCBG and Gucci.

Nicole H., 32, is an art gallery manager in Milwaukee, Wis. Her style, as described by other people: "I'd never wear it but it looks good on you."

+ shoes: Chinese laundry -- "High heeled tennies are perfectly absurd."
+ skirt: David Meister (80% off at Zitas)
+ shirt: can't remember. "I've had this shirt since junior high -- no kidding -- I cut the tag out along with the puffy sleeves and I castrated the tuxedo tails."
+ bracelet: "Coolest thing I ever found at the Gap."
+ purse: Beck(y) from NYC, she made it out of an old skateboard, and painted an image from Shel Silverstein's "The Giving Tree" on it. (I dig recycled garbage.)

What should you be eating in that outfit? "A cupcake with multi-colored sprinkles."

Related Links: More stuff by David Meister, plus a spring green "rebel" tee and grass-green kitten-heel slides.

We couldn't pick just one this week. You decide.

Pam W., 35, is eight months pregnant with her first child and works as a career counselor for brain-injured adults in Minneapolis, Minn.
+ sunglasses: some store in Louisville, Ky.
+ polka-dot dress: "I can't remember. Motherhood something. It's all one big conglomerate, isn't it?"
+ bag: Amazon.com
+ earrings and ring: Patina
+ sandals and watch: Marshall Field's
Fashion weaknesses: Donald J Pliner shoes and seatbelt bags. "I have six of them," Pam says.

Related Links: Oversize polka-dot dress by BCBG Max Azria and wedges by Donald Pliner, polka dot skirt by Eva Franco

Olivia T. is a 23-year-old reservations manager for the Radisson hotel in Fargo, North Dakota.
+ shirt: To the Max by TJ Maxx
+ necklace: Kohl's
+ pants: Star City by Kohl's
+ shoes: Etienne Aigner
+ watch: Target
+ ring: designed by Olivia and custom-made by Crown Jewels in Fargo.
How do you bring style to 40 degrees below zero? "A really cute coat," Olivia said. "And really cute scarves. And hats."

Related Links: Neon colors are fun for fall. And winter too.

Maggie S., 34, a marketing communications manager for Nike, is a Portland transplant from New York City, which is where she developed her obsession for bags. "I can't help myself!"
+ T-shirt: Splendid
+ skirt: Adam Arnold
+ motocross jacket: FCUK
+ bracelet: vintage 1960s
+ green handbag: Kale
+ silver earrings: custom design
+ sandals: Kenneth Cole
+ pink tote: freebie from Seattle boutique Olivine

Maggie's style icons include Jackie O. and Chrissie Hynde. "Never wanting to be mistaken for June Cleaver, I'll generally add a punk-rock note or two."

Related Links: Maggie would be all over this rockin' yellow Kenneth Cole handbag

Cindy Y. works for Yahoo! in Korea and was on vacation in Los Angeles.
+ sunglasses: Dolce & Gabbana
+ sweater: Theory
+ earrings: Swarovski (duty-free in Japan)
+ handbag: Louis Vuitton, custom ordered from Italy.
+ wrap dress: Banana Republic (Las Vegas)
+ shoes: Jimmy Choo (bought in Sunnyvale, Calif.)
Cindy's favorite designers: Michael Kors, Chloe, Jimmy Choo.

Related Links: Psychedelic pop art dress by BCBG Max Azria, shades by Michael Kors, and shoes by Jimmy Choo.

Debee Smith, 24, works in promotions for BFG, a beverage and food company, and was visiting Block Island, R.I., from Baltimore, Md. Debbee is also in a Baltimore-based band named 57 Octaves Below.

+ shirt: belongs to a friend of a friend.
+ skirt: mary-kateandashley via Wal-Mart.
+ sandals: Target.
+ jewelry: made of sterling silver ivy leaves and freshwater pearls by Debee as a birthday present to herself. She is also wearing big rings and an antique silver bracelet.

She likes summer's "gypsy look" -- neck scarves and big jewelry.

Related Links: Cream-colored skirt by Tocca, green tank and gypsy jewelry.

Kang Shin Hee, 26, is visiting New London, Conn. from her native Seoul, Korea, to study English.

+ Ralph Lauren shirt
+ khaki shorts from Korea
+ lime green mules by BCBGirls
+ Italian leather bag by Cristian.
+ knotted khaki and gold rope belt was made in Korea.

Kang's style icon: Kirsten Dunst
favorite designer: Marc Jacobs. "He's very famous in Korea."

Related Links: Top these lime green open-toe slides with a hot pink blouse by BCBG Max Azria.

Niles R., 21, in Little Five Points, Atlanta, GA
+ red and white striped henley - thrift store
+ undersized vest - thrift store
+ stovepipe black jeans - thrift store
+ white boots - thrift store

How would you describe your style? "Rock and Roll"

Related Links: Nothing could be more rock than tight black jeans. Paired with a rock T-shirt and pointed boots, people'll swear you gig at CBGB's.

Taisha R. is a 20-year-old teaching assistant in Newark, New Jersey. Taisha is wearing:

+ shoulder bag: Hot Topic
+ skirt: Charlotte Russe
+ shirt: "I don't remember, but I cut the sleeves off this morning because it was hot."
+ shoes: Easy Pickins
+ how would you describe your style? "Comfortable"
+ tattoos: She has ten. Her favorite is the tattoo of her daughter's name, Maleyah, on her inner forearm.

Leah M., 24, works at Ra Sushi Bar in downtown Chicago. She's wearing:

+ chunky emerald green beads from a local Goodwill thrift store; Rolex watch.
+ white organza shoestring top from Arden B.
+ Aldo handbag.
+ Citizens of Humanity jeans.
+ Chinese Laundry shoes.

What's in her big brown bag? Wedge shoes from Aldo, Dior perfume.

Irim M., 22, is from Elon, North Carolina, and works as an intern at WFAE (90.7 FM) in Charlotte. Today Irim is wearing:

+ sunglasses & belt: from a kiosk inside Atlanta's transit center
+ bag: LuLu
+ earrings & bracelets: Pakistan (local shop)
+ pants: Urban Outfitters
+ top: Wet Seal
+ jacket: Target (Isaac Mizrahi)

Favorite brands: BCBG, Benetton.
Best style secret: Shopping underground in Atlanta's transit center for stuff that won't show up on everyone else and their mother.

Related Links: More stuff your mom won't be wearing by BCBG.

Caroline C., 37-year-old self-proclaimed "diletantte" from Oakland, California, who was visiting Massachusetts for a wedding.
fashion credo: "Never wear black."
style icon: her grandmother.

Caroline is wearing...

+ dress & cardigan: Tocca
+ purse: Isabella Fiore
+ shoes: Jack Rogers

Related Links: Tocca for day, Tocca for night.

Christina A., 21, on Virginia Beach's boardwalk

+ purple top : K-Mart
+ tank top: Family Dollar
+ belt: thrift store
+ denim skirt: Family Dollar
+ leggings : K-Mart
+ metallic silver ballet slippers: Target
+ swirl-pattern earrings: NY London (a shop in Virginia Beach)
+ oversize turtoise shell frames: Family Dollar

How would you describe your style? "My own. And vintage."

Related Links: Don't miss out on big eye frames this summer. Stock up on beater tanks while you're at it.

+Mariel W., musician
+Lives in Cincinnati, where she's guitarist, pianist and vocalist for Executioner of the Heart, a local band.
+favorite designer: Showpony (awesome t-shirts)

Mariel is wearing:
+Nara Camicie button-down shirt (worn backwards as a
halter)
+Salt Works jeans
+Leigh Liebert necklace
+vintage bag, vintage abalone ring

Related Links: Get crafty with this Fourtys striped shirt, white jeans by Alice & Olivia, and cute black clutch.

+Talitha L., 28, reporter for the Irish Times, in California for the Michael Jackson trial. Now that it's over she can relax.
+ from Cork, Ireland
+ why she loves fashion: "You can be a different person every day."
+ favorite brand: Miss Sixty
+ shoes: Irregular Choice
+ pants & belt: Miss Sixty
+ shirt: Guru
+ earrings: Claire's
+ Talitha says: "Clothes don't have to be expensive, but they're probably better if they are."

Related Links: Miss Sixty corduroys, red tank top by Dolce & Gabbana.

Monique, 29-year-old hairstylist from Manhattan
Fashion credo: "Style is what you make it."
Style icon: "me"

What she's wearing...

boots: Nine West
skirt & belt: a boutique on 125th Street in Harlem
jacket: Gap
panther brooch: street vendor
purse: Bebe

Related Links: Urban cowgirls love pink prairie skirts, denim jackets, western belts

+ Aki K., 21-year-old student of English and fashion.
+ Born in Tokyo, living in Los Angeles
+ Favorite designer: Coco Chanel
+ What she's wearing:

top: nova check Burberry blouse
shawl: Dior
jeans: Zara
purse: Urban Outfitters
dog: belongs to her roommate

Related Links: Burberry for spring, wicker purse, place to keep your dog biscuits

Katrina O., 29-year-old interior designer
+ Lives in Covington, Ky.
+ Favorite designers: Dries Van Noten, Vanessa Bruno, Hussein Chalayan
+ Things she's into right now: big floral prints, big sunglasses, big necklaces
+ Worst outfit ever: blue and black flannel with jeweled belt over black stirrup pants....yuck...it was the 1980s.
+ Her outfit:

black top - Vanessa Bruno
jacket - vintage
necklace - handmade by Katrina!
bag - Vanessa Bruno

Related Links: Dries Van Noten, Vanessa Bruno, bejewled 1980s belt

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