By far one of Vogue’s best shoots. I actually unpacked that blanket and had NO idea at the time that it was all over a baby elephant in Africa - but obviously I’m still alive and kicking so it was fine. I think this was the last time I can say I was truly inspired from one of Vogue’s celebrity spreads - maybe it’s budgeting, maybe it’s location, but everything about the safari chic was done so right. You could imagine yourself in the clothes and living the story, and when I started at Polo this spread was actually the inspiration for the first season I worked on, which I thought was an absolute dream.

Images like this make me dream of linen, gauzey flowing dresses in the summer heat. The summer heat is going to be a lil different this year in Austin - so I will definitely be investing in a lot of lightweight dresses for the Texas sun. When attempting safari chic, your best bet is to stick to khakis, olives, and whites as your base palette. A splash of modern Maasai inspired red and plum will liven it up, but the key is to keep it minimal. And - by no means does safari equal animal print in my book. There is a time and a place for that and it is called Bridge & Tunnel in the Meatpacking District.

Forever 21 Tunic $22.80

American Eagle sandals $29.50

Delia*s shirtdress $44.50

Paul & Joe Sister @ Urban Outfitters $98

Girl Props bangle $6.99

Since moving to Texas, I like to think I’ve been in a kind of twilight zone for five months.  The weather hasn’t really changed, I’ve never been so busy, and there’s always something new to do.  And, in said twilight zone - the typical feeling of winter and Christmas hasn’t hit me at all.  In New York - regardless of whether or not there was snow, Christmas meant there were more tourists than cabs, and everyday shopping was like Black Friday.   New York is so romantic during Christmas, the lights and the bundling up, the Mexican hot chocolate at La Esquina - oh the grass is always greener.

So, to compensate with the varying 75 degree days -  I’ve made a conscious effort to not wear a jacket out, go without tights, and enjoy this paradox called Texas. This past weekend I even spent all day sitting outside drinking bloody’s with the girls, actually feeling hot.  As a native northeastern girl, this is incredibly novel and totally messes with my head.  My mom has always said that she thinks southern girls must be so smiley all the time because it’s always sunny - and I’ve found she may be right.

As there is now a total lack of cabin fever chic in my dress as well as my state of mind, to curb my nostalgia as I spend Christmas in another totally unseasonal city (New Orleans) - I’m going to have to take it up a notch.  Fairisles, shearling, and buffalo checks are what first come to mind, but there is so much more to it than a few textures, patterns, or finishes.  Fairisles should be kept tonal or monochromatic - as pastel fairisles are majorly matronly.  When it comes to shearling, don’t over do it with a too detailed boot.  I like the simplicity of an ugg, camel colored leather, or a Michael Kors type of bootie - stay away from heavy buckles or laces.  When you hit the slopes - or your living room this Christmas, I recommend channeling a British royal.

Urban Outfitters $78

Spiegel bootie $59

Dillard’s shearling cocktail bag $14

American Eagle buffalo check coat $129.50

Old Navy knit bracelet $2.50 each

Let’s ignore the fact that the hemline on this dress needs about 3 inches – and concentrate on the rich color story. As Thanksgiving is only a day away, a lot of us are starting to plan our feasting outfits. I plan on scouring my closet for anything cranberry or squash colored, inspired by who other than Gossip Girl. Seriously though, autumnal colors like berry, rust, and evergreen are perfect for not only this time of year, but as an excuse to exercise your closet for the family. I remember when I was at V, I went home for the holidays and my mom said “Jennifer, you look like you’re right out of a magazine” – my mom is a lovable crazy, and so I say - well mom, I do spend most of my time at a magazine. She still has no idea what I do. As family dynamics seem to get more crazy as you get older – here’s to filling up your glass of wine and looking good while doing it.

Delia*s beaded skirt $38.50

Newport News ombre shoe $39

Top Shop blouse $65

American Eagle scarf $19.50

Nine West patent satchel $69