I’m just going to being this ten things post by pretending that it hasn’t been almost a year since I published the last one… Ahem.

Let’s say I was inspired by the Christie’s auction scene in the Sex and the City movie… I loved the floral brights and suddenly started to see them everywhere! The kaleidescopic floral prints and ladylike shapes are a little retro and always in style – especially for a summer wedding, brunch, or shower. Or how about just a day out with the girls?

1. Giverny print Sydney Dress

This gorgeous print really does connote Monet’s garden – all of those watery hues, vivid pops from the flower beds, and the wildness of late-summer garden paths. The skirt shape makes it vintage-inspired, but this is perfect for the modern socialite or Gossip Girl enthusiast.

$350 at J.Crew

2. Chuparosa Dress

Imagine a stroll through Umbria or Siena… Cobblestone streets, farmers’ markets, warm sunshine, and this dress. The muted peachy-pink is perfect for a glass of rose on the terrace, preferably overlooking the Mediterranean if it can be done. I love the front-tie and wide shoulder straps.

$288 at Anthropologie

3. Chetta B Printed Silk Dress

Love! Peony pink pairs perfectly with black silhouettes – especially those of oversized flowers! So incredibly chic. The bateau neckline and little sleeves keep this work-appropriate and comfortable. Pair with some fabulous black patent sandals or pumps and keep wearing this gem right through Indian Summer!

$290 at Neiman Marcus

4. Floral-print Lady Dress

This royal blue and brown print is perfect for this trend. Slightly old-fashioned, but paired with a high hemline to keep it modern. The ruched cap sleeves are the perfect balance for the pleated waist and full skirt. Funk it up with some gladiator sandals or keep it delicate with some silver flats. Perfect for work and play…

$150 at Banana Republic

5. Adam Poppy Print Mini Dress

Crisp, clean, elegant…with lots of personality too! I love these bright orange poppies – so eye-catching! A little bit Marimekko-inspired, but incredibly classic. The bustier top is tailored for a perfect fit. Just the thing for the ladies’ luncheon or afternoon wine tasting.

$395 at Saks Fifth Avenue

6. Doris Shirtdress

Who other than you would want this dress? Hmmm…. Lucille Ball and Donna Reed come to mind, but don’t let the 50s-technicolor vibe stop you! I swear this dress was in Three Coins in the Fountain or Funny Face – just the thing to stay well-dressed on a whirlwind tour of Europe.

$178 at Anthropologie

7. Brushstroke Print Sydney Dress

This free-form print in periwinkle and white creates all kinds of cool for the summer. Pair it with a blazer and pumps for the office, or some silver sandals for an evening out. Or, how about some cute kicky flats to just run around town on a Saturday?

$165 at J. Crew

8. ABS by Allen Schwartz Babydoll Dress

Channel your inner bohemian and still remain a lady! This whisper of chiffon silk is gathered and ruffled to create a delicate neckline and hem. What’s not to love? Everyone else will be green with envy too…

$325 at Neiman Marcus

9. Single-printed Hammered Silk Dress

Truly modern and still classic. I love this combination of navy, cream, citron, and little pops of red. This is the kind of dress to keep and wear for years, and everyone will think it’s brand new each time! Great at the office with a little cardigan, and then wear it right out to cocktails or dinner. Lovely!

$260 at Neiman Marcus

10. Sea Glass Gown

Perfectly gorgeous. I love the vivid warm tones, tailored top and sweeping full skirt. A lovely thing to wear to a beach wedding in the Hamptons, or a barbecue in Napa where you can kick off your sandals and hide your toes in the grass. Breezy and beautiful…

$575 at J. Crew

Inspiration: Balenciaga Fall 2007School days, school days... For those of us no longer in the daily uniform it's still a good time to pick up some new staples to be worn day in and out. Since I'm absolutely in love with the Balenciaga blazers from the Fall 2007 runway, I decided to scout out some preppy-inspired blazers that could be worn with the perfect laissez-faire of one between recess and fourth period history.

Take your basic blazer, add cool buttons, some contrast edging, a bright scarf and maybe do it up in a fun fabric... But overall it's really all about the attitude: pretty and preppy, but edgy and cool all at once! Here's a roundup of ten fabulous blazers for the fall harvest; simple enough for everyday, but full of exciting possibilities!

Everyone needs a good array of velvet blazers in the closet; preferably some with some equestrian leanings! Enter this lovely with a notched collar and two front pockets, as well as tone-on-tone edging overall. Dress up that basic tee and jeans combo, or top a beautiful blouse for an evening out!

Washed Velvet Jacket - $98 at Boden.com

This jacket is both wearable and cute - I love that it's styled from the Empire line and then flares out with a little a-line shape. The overall shape is strong and geometric - especially with that popped collar. I also love that the three buttons allow for movement in the design.

Wool Pique Ava Jacket - $275 at J.Crew 

I love the curved edge of this cut - it's like a gentleman's coat from the early 19th century...at least there's just a hint of that anyway. Because otherwise its purely modern and luxurious with a set of asymmetrical buttons, shaped pockets at the hips rather than the front, and lean sleeves. The grey-on-grey color is begging to be enlivened by some hot pink, bright yellow or electric blue...perfect! 

Robert Rodriguez Cutaway Jacket - $595 at Neiman Marcus

This is definitely something I could wear to work every day - with black baggy pants or slim jeans and boots - the look is adorable and sophisticated. The grey plaid is cozy without losing its edge, and the funnel-neckline adds that touch of 1960s-mod appeal.

Funnel Neck Jacket by Vince - $295 at Shopbop.com 

This jacket has a fabulous simplicity: the cut is lean, classic, and perfectly feminine. The two buttons are perfectly tailored as are the thin sleeves which allow it to be worn on it's own or over a light shell - almost as a cardigan more than a blazer. This piece is so simple that one could leave it alone or easily adorn it with some edging or a colorful scarf to make it ones own in a dramatic way.

Wool Herringbone Bella Jacket - $198 at J.Crew 

Four tailored pockets, a notched collar and contrast edging - this one definitely fits the bill! The soft tweed looks sort of slouchy and washed which gives the whole thing a broken-in, vintage style - like it might have been your mother's when she was in school...

Combat Jacket by Rag & Bone - $515 at Shopbop.com 

When I saw this on the website I had to stop and look at all the colors offered - which one to choose? I love how simple the cut is, but the contrast edging and big buttons give this jacket a dose of whimsy that anyone with a pulse would love to wear! It's cozy and cool...

Wool Swing Jacket - $118 at Boden.com 

I kept coming back to this one...I wasn't sure about the plaid, but then I knew I loved it. It's statement-making, strong, and modern. THEN I saw the back details with its lovely, feminine pleated peplum - that's when I knew I was really infatuated. Perfect with jeans, a crisp shirt, and a solid pashmina - mix it up, Gwen would want it that way!

Plaid Juliet Jacket by L.A.M.B. - $425 at eLuxury.com 

How sharp! How crisp! How chic! It's awfully hard to find fault with this one. The sharp contrast outline is fun and flirtatious without losing its professionalism. Black and white go with absolutely everything, so the skies the limit on the color combinations. Perfect with some dark khaki chinos, jeans, or fabulous tweed trousers - this will definitely catch the compliments!

Double-faced Wool Lexington Jacket - $228 at J.Crew 

This short double-breasted jacket gets its structure from the military, but it's style is purely ladylike. A set of layered ruffles moves along the bottom edge and up the front for a little bit of "flou". I love the long, narrow sleeves and square collar.

Calgary Ruffle Jacket by Sunner - $431 at Shopbop.com 

It’s true, I’ve been in and out of hotel rooms this year, and while it’s fun to be a hotel name-dropper from time to time - “oh, I’ve stayed there…” – there is still a long list of hotels I’d love to stay in someday, somehow… Maybe I read too much Vanity Fair or watch too many movies, but these hotels seem to come up again and again as some of the chic-est places to lay one’s head.

The Hotel du Cap Eden Roc has got to be the topper. I’ve loved it ever since I saw the opening sequence of Paris When It Sizzles, and every year I imagine myself beating Dominick Dunne at a game of gin on its broad terrace during the Cannes Film Festival. Meanwhile, the whole place conjures frolicking summers of the jazz age with Scott, Zelda, the Murphys, Picasso, and the Cole Porters. Who could resist staying at the Roc?

Hôtel du Cap Eden Roc, Antibes, France

If the Hotel du Cap were full, I suppose I’d have to stay at the Hotel Carlton in Cannes with everyone else who’s there during the film festival. Not that I’m complaining about this, but if I were to stay here I’d want Grace Kelly’s little roadster waiting at the door for afternoon drives – just like in To Catch a Thief.

Hôtel Carlton Cannes, Cannes, France

I love Quebec. It’s quiet old-worldliness, it’s understated European chic. I think I’ve been in love with the Fairmont Chateau Frontenac ever since I saw it on the pages of my French textbook in sixth grade. I’d love to go up there for a long autumn weekend, watch the leaves change colors, and maybe even catch a dusting of early snow, and then get cozy in a sumptuous room that overlooks the whole city.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada

There’s another Chateau that revs my glamour motor: Chateau Marmont. Of course everyone stays here, or has at least partied their ass off here. I would just love to stay for a weekend and see what all the fuss is about, Entourage episodes aside. I guess it’s that secret rock-star side of me that wants to go cut it up in the castle on Sunset.

Chateau Marmont, Los Angeles, California

One of the best hotels I’ve ever stayed in was the Casa Del Mar in Santa Monica, but it’s next-door neighbor seems to be the place that gets all the buzz. I’ve heard nothing but good things about the Shutters – how romantic and quiet it is, and how it’s the discreet choice of the classy celebutantes that don’t care for paparazzi.

Shutters Hotel on the Beach, Santa Monica, California

Two hours south of LA there’s another hotel that’s haunted me for ages: Hotel Del Coronado on Coronado Island in San Diego. Maybe because I love ghosts and this place is supposedly haunted Kate Morgan – a young woman who checked in in 1892 and never checked out. To be honest though, I think it’s because of Some Like It Hot.

Hotel Del Coronado, Coronado Island, San Diego, California

I can think of nothing more romantic than visiting Venice, Italy. Nothing, unless it’s the prospect of waking up in the morning, tumbling out of 1000-thread count Frette sheets, opening the shutters and finding a front-row view of the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy. Apparently this can be yours at the Hotel Europa & Regina. Now, when does my morning coffee get here? (To be fair, I did want to mention the Hotel des Bains on the Lido as another spot that I’d like to stay in, but I decided that I wanted my canal-view more than the beach…)

Hotel Europa & Regina, Venice, Italy

Ah, Paris. My home away from home. I love it there, but it isn’t much of a hotel town the way New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles are these days. It’s true the Hotel Costes is unabashedly “trendy” (so quoted from their own website copy,) thereby cornering the market in boutique hotels in Paris, but who needs to put up with their snotty velvet-rope service? No. For my money I’d much rather go all-out and stay where Madonna stays: Hôtel de Crillon. Right on the Place de la Concorde and just down the street from the Buddha Bar, this place is still the best place to stay in Paris. Some say it’s the Ritz, but again, let’s stay away from the cameras, and who needs the temptation of all those jewelry stores on the Place Vendôme?

Hôtel de Crillon, Paris, France

I hear the shopping is wonderful in Hong Kong, as is the food. While I’ve never been, I do know where to stay once I make it there: The Peninsula. Another hotel that’s been consistently glamorous ever since it opened in 1928, the whole prospect of visiting makes me think of the chicness of China pre-World War II. I suppose I just want to sip martinis among the potted palms in the lobby and wait for James Bond to check in and take me to dinner…not that I’d wait around for him, but you know what I mean.

The Peninsula Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, SAR

I’m not really one for the desert, but once again I would like to see the why and the what of the buzz surrounding Dubai. As everyone knows, when in Dubai the only place to stay is the Burj Al Arab – the hotel that was designed to look like a sailboat on the water. The whole place seems to be like a real-life Absurdistan with over-the-top accommodations, plasma screen TVs, mirrors on the ceiling, helipads, and a skybar. Part of me thinks it sounds luxurious, while the other part of me thinks it sounds like a weird alternate universe with so many amenities meant to distract you from the fact that you’re in a hellish prison. After all, when it’s this hot who really wants to go outside? But who knows – I may end up liking it!

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

It's just about that time of year when retailers decide they've had enough of summer and they're ready to bring in the fall... Not so fast! There's plenty of life left in summer, especially out here on the west coast where we'll be warm well into October! Time to stock up on supplies for fun, festive, outdoor entertaining...and maybe even with some things on sale!

Entertaining outside may call for plastic and paper, but the truly sophisticated host will insist on glassware. But this doesn't mean that your outdoor glassware shouldn't be sturdy and party-proof. Pottery Barn's Twist Glassware comes in all kinds of shapes and sizes for every type of long and cool libation. Mix up a big batch of something in the stylish pitcher to keep things flowing!

Twist Glassware - $22.99 - $45 at Pottery Barn

To keep the drinks chilled, reach for this copper stand-alone ice bucket. Keep the table clear for all of the delicious food and candlelight... A handy shelf down below keeps garnishes, napkins, and glassware close by.

Freeport Freestanding Beverage Stand - $219 at Smith and Hawken 

Create instant twilight atmosphere with this beautiful Hanging Lantern Frame. Use the Napa Lanterns, or mix and match with a group from your own collection. Of course candles on the table are key, but a little bit hanging from above helps to keep the mood magical on a warm summer night.

Hanging Lantern Frame - $99 and Napa Lanterns $19 - $79 at Pottery Barn 

Catch the breeze with these traditional Mexican fiesta banners - the ornate cutwork creates an airy mood that will dress up any area. Perfect for showers or engagement parties...or if you just like crisp whites!

Traditional Mexican Celebration Banner - $12 per strand at PlumParty.com 

Candlelight is the most important part of outdoor entertaining, so keep things illuminated in every weather with hurricanes. The candles last longer and the glass catches all the light. These generous proportions would even allow for some quirky vase-fillers around the pillar. Try flower petals, seashells, sand, pebbles, or beads.

Pewter-Rimmed Hurricanes - $165 each at Williams-Sonoma Home 

Just like the glassware, you want to keep your dinner ware "real" - that is, not plastic or paper. The caveat to this rule is melamine, especially the stylish plates designed by French Bull. Dress up your table with some graphic color - mix and match sets for variation and add some platters for pizzazy presentations. 

French Bull melamine plates & platters - $18 - $45 at PlumParty.com 

Fun parties play games...everyone seems to enjoy themselves much more when they're enjoying a cocktail while monitoring play. A bocce set for home will keep the friendly competition rolling through the evening, and will keep things lively on the lawn!

Bocce Ball Set - $49 at Smith and Hawken 

There's certain music that always evokes summertime, and while I couldn't decide on just one album, I chose three of my summertime faves. Of course once the Buena Vista Social Club starts playing, I already feel the heat in the air. To keep the balmy beach feeling alive, I like to go with some bossa nova, but remix it with some classic crooners on Bossa Novaville. To round off the mix, go back to classic Motown with Motown Classics Gold - all the tunes you know the words to...

Available at Amazon.com 

And where are you having this fabulous party? How about under your gazebo? Nothing creates the romantic mood better than a little bit of tented seating outdoors. Add your candles, beautiful wicker chairs, good friends, and voila...you won't ever want the summer to end!

Chesapeake Gazebo - $3999 at Pottery Barn (furniture sold separately) 

Finally, a little local favorite. The It's It! is a famous San Francisco treat that I always crave at this time of year...and no wonder! It's delicious oatmeal cookies sandwich creamy vanilla ice cream, and then the entire thing is dipped in chocolate. A treat dating back to the days of Playland at the Beach, this sandwich had such a notoriety that no one knew what to call it, so that's what they called it: It's IT! And nothing says summertime like an ice cream sandwich... 

It's It Ice Cream Company 

I love big rings. They're fearless, flirtatious, glamorous, and full of moxie. They walk right out on your finger and catch all the complements. Big rings are the hot sauce of accessories - they're fiery on the palette, and the uninitiated should approach with caution. However, if you're like me, you like that extra kick and are always on the lookout for a new way to tantalize. With that in mind, here are a few of my favorite big rings of the moment...

Kenneth Jay Lane is the master of fun costume jewelry. It's trendy, true, but a statement-making piece like this one is classic enough to stick around for many years. It's black so it goes with everything, and can spice up eveningwear and jeans alike. I think even Mademoiselle Chanel would approve of this one! 

Kenneth Jay Lane Flower Ring - $88.00 at Shopbop.com 

When I saw this Roberto Cavalli number I nearly swooned. Yowza! Definitely not for everyone - only the most intrepidly fabulous! I love that the warm wood is mixed with the icy gemstones, and the snake is the perfect motif. A little bit of danger to liven up your jewelry box... 

Roberto Cavalli Wooden Serpent Ring - $290.00 at Net-a-Porter.com 

I cannot remember a time when I was not in love with the Baccarat Crystal Galet Ring. Like a gorgeous sparkling dew drop on your finger. It's so cute, so distinctive...and in so many colors! It's a tough decision...might as well get them all! I chose to show the clear one because clear accessories are so hot this season, and because I didn't want to show preference to any one color - I love them all! 

Baccarat Crystal Galet Ring - $235.00 at Baccarat.com 

Okay, I'll admit it - I actually HAVE a Louis Vuitton Inclusion Ring and it's downright fantastic. I wear it almost everyday and it feels like a part of me - that glamorous, sparkling, luxurious part of me. This color is an old one, but it's impossible to find a picture of this beauty - you'll just have to visit a Louis Vuitton store to check it out for yourself. I highly recommend the black or pomme d'amour colors...gorgeous! No buyer's remorse here... 

Louis Vuitton Inclusion Ring - about $200.00 - call 866-VUITTON 

This ring by Tarina Tarantino is as witty as it is literary. And who hasn't identified with the Queen of Hearts at some time or another? These rings actually come in multiple options of Alice in Wonderland-related characters, and while the Chesire Cat is pretty good, I have to go with the Queen.  

Queen Alice Mod Ring - $63.00 at Tarina Tarantino.com 

I cannot even believe this ring is real - it's just too fabulous. So unusual, so ornate, so...BIG! This beauty from Ericson Beamon for Shopbop will definitely have the compliments coming your way. It's a bit gaudy, true, but it's so far uptown that it's downright downtown. I dunno, but this ring has attitude! (Oh - and it comes in black too!)

Ericson Beamon for Shopbop Plastic Fantastic Lover Ring - $278.00 at Shopbop.com 

I love this Steven Dweck ring - and not just because my birthstone is turquoise...but that helps! I love how substantial it is while it's intricate carvings also make it delicate and feminine. This turquoise won't get lost in the desert!

Steven Dweck Trapezoid-Cut Turquoise Ring - $490.00 at Neiman Marcus.com 

Bee rings are always a classic, but there are bee rings and then there are bee rings... Some of them are bee bling, while others are like this lovely one from Rachel Leigh. I love the warm-colored stones with the gold metal, as well as the way the bee body is delicate while it's still statement-making. Did you know that bees are lucky? Well, this little companion is sure to draw luck your way...

Rachel Leigh Queen Bee Ring - $62.00 at Shopbop.com 

In college I had more than my share of silver rings, but a number of years ago I simply stopped wearing them. I'm not sure why, but maybe if I had this beauty from Simon Sebbag I'd be singing a different tune. I love that this ring is glossy, modern, and eye-catching, while still being simple and elegant. A winner! 

Simon Sebbag Sterling Silver Ring - $88.00 at Nordstrom.com 

To go with simple silver, I also found some simple gold. This ring from Fallon Jewelry made me gasp when I saw it, and it's sure to do the same from your admirers! Talk about a wear-with-everything...this one really should be part of the daily routine. You could probably harness the power of the sun with that big disk, and with that kind of juice there's no telling what could happen!

Fallon Jewelry Plate Ring - $127.00 at Shopbop.com