Found: Sheer Perfection

These Vera Wang-y dresses from H&M are nothing short of genius with their soft pleats, sheer tops and perfectly affordable price-point.  Wear a tonal tank underneath (we don't want to give too much away, now do we?) or, for a fierce fashion statement, imagine a black tank under the off-white version or a bright red tank under the navy.  I'll wear this dress now with pumps or wedges and later with a pair of black or red booties.  Swoon! These must-must-have dresses ($69.95 each) are in stores now at select H&M stores nationwide.  Just don't snap them all up before 2 pm, pretty please.  Oh sweet dress, I'm on my way!

Dot, Dot, Dot...

Emma Watson in Gucci Fall 2011 polka-dot dress - Photo by Mariano Vivanco, courtesy UNi magazine 

When it comes to fall trend-spotting, it's pretty hard to miss the upcoming season's print of choice.  Polka-dots are the new stripes and are playfully popping up on everything from silky pants to dresses to sweet jackets.  And, like the post-Hermione Emma Watson, polka-dots suddenly look all grown up.  Now all you have to do is spot your perfect dotted piece and rock it right now with bare legs and this fall with opaque tights and a clean-cut blazer.  RLR Tip:  Avoid looking too Minnie Mouse by giving your dots a downtown vibe.  Stick to black & white (or navy & white) dots and mix in edgy accessories - think bold cuffs, a sculptural choker or a killer pair of ankle-booties.  If you want to add some colour, a great red tote or classic red lips will do the trick.   

Meeeoww

It's a jungle out there, my little urban kittens, and when the pavement gets cooking, so should you.  Look to the safari (read:  YSL and Elie Tahari) for inspiration and breeze through the heat in an airy white shirt, linen-blend shorts and strappy flats.  A python-print clutch and cat-eye sunnies (meeeowww!) add just enough jungle boogie to your bounce. Bare your beautiful feline features with a touch of tinted moisturizer, a hint of gloss and a coat of waterproof mascara and you'll be ready to explore - from the bustling city streets to the sandswept shore.  Anyone want to lend me a Jeep?

Ice, Ice, Baby

Photo courtesy zara.com (Blazer, $49.99; Tank, $19.99; Shorts, $19.99; all Zara)

On a day like today, I wish I could dive into a pool full of icy cold water and spend all day splashing around in it. This week, I'm going to avoid heavy blacks, hot reds and rich oranges and instead, turn to my cool hues and bright blues for a sartorial respite from the heat.  This look from Zara isn't new but it's refreshing just the same.  Ideally, I'll be wearing white all week but I love the idea of adding a pop of cool Pippa blue over top when I head indoors for another drink.  Silver sandals and a great metallic silver cuff will keep you looking totally chilled out.  Ahhh...

Found: A Foulard to Love

Nomad Silk Scarf Bag, Anthropologie, $88

My internet and land line have been down all week so out of desperation, I made my way to a Wi-Fi friendly McCafe to write this post.  Ahhh, the glamorous life of a style reporter.  I'm totally McLoving this silk scarf bag from Anthropologie.  A beautiful scarf always lends a certain sophistication to the wearer and right now, scarf prints are all the rage;  whether on dresses, blouses, flowy pants or totes.  Though I don't plan on splurging on a Hermes version anytime soon (can anyone else hear James' sigh of relief?), I would snap up this pretty and practical scarf satchel in a heartbeat.  Wear it now and all the way through fall for the perfect pop of print and colour for any of your more subdued looks.  Gorge!

Must go.  The Big Macs are calling my name but I'm pretending I don't hear them.  Thanks for your patience, my P.Y.T's -  should be back to regular blogging again next week.  I have SO many fun things to share with you.  xoxo