I received the following sneak peeks of the next launch at J Crew.  I pre-ordered the leopard cropped jacket, which costs $278 (item J6148)  immediately. I have longer and warmer coats, so I don't need to invest in a really expensive coat this year.  I'm not sure if it will work, but I fell hard and would regret it if it sold out without giving it a try. 

The skirt (item J6359 $98) and the long leopard coat (item G9553 $298) in the second photo are fabulous too, but I have similar items in my wardrobe. I love how the brand paired the cropped jacket with a graphic sweatshirt and the skirt with a graphic tee. I happen to love the formal and informal mix.

As for some of the handbags pictured, the Harper mini satchel ($168 item J9604) in the first photo is adorable and perfect for people who don't like carrying a large bag and need/prefer a crossbody. The leopard bag in the second photo ($298 item J9602) is a great way to embrace the animal print trend if you're not a print person and only want to try it in small doses. 

If you're unsure if you want to participate in the animal print craze for fall and the items above are too pricey, you may want to try this $30 Target Who What Wear Collection asymmetric hem slip skirt that's approved by blogger Kat Tanita. photo: @Kattanita

I'm all in on the leopard print trend that I happen to think isn't a trend, but a print that will never go out of style.  I believe we're just seeing a heavy push right now.  While I love leopard, I wasn't sold on reptile print, so I didn't want to spend a lot of money on an item. The solution: I bought this snake print midi skirt from Zara.  It has a heavy faux leather texture, which will work well when it gets cooler. What sold me on the skirt was the way Zara styled the skirt in the second picture. I love the mix of different shades of amber.  I have a few sweaters that may work to recreate this look. 

Below are a few new items that I'm loving: this sweater, this blouse, these pants, this blouse, this sweater (the color is amazing, no?), this sweater, and this sweater (I'm a sucker for anything rainbow.)  Let me know what you think.  

One of my tricks for transitioning summer dresses for cooler temps is a turtleneck.  It not only helps with the temperature change but makes your pieces feel new.  J Crew has a great tissue turtleneck that's ultra thin and works well for when it's not too cool. They are sold out right now, which may mean they are launching new colors for fall.    Everlane's pima stretch turtleneck is a good alternative.  It's slim and doesn't add bulk when you wear it under things, which is what you need when layering.  It comes in three colors.  Do you have a transition trick? If you do, please share it with me.  I'm always looking for new ideas.

Thanks for visiting!  

XO

Lacey