Thanks for the Blogs!

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I wanted to extend a heartfelt "thank you" to some of my favorite blogs for providing me with inspiration, laughs and a do-good attitude. I'm in awe of the many creative and talented people in the blogosphere -- their witty and unique perspectives on everything from fashion, to interior design to spreading kindness around the world brings a smile to my face nearly every day.

Thanks for the inspiration
The Sartorialist
A collection of photos taken by fashion photographer Scott Schuman showcasing stylish everyday and not-so-everyday (i.e. models) people from around the world.



I love being a voyeur of our ever-evolving fashion world. I'm constantly inspired by the photos of unique, extravagant and simple styles. It is constantly making me think outside my own little fashion box.

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The Scoop
A designer/fashion/artist blog from the girls behind OrangeBeautiful, a design studio of all paper things handmade: books, cards, stationary, etc.



They post their favorite items, which often become mine too. They've got great taste, and they often post links to other cool Web site that I would never have discovered if it wasn't for their great blog.

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Fashion is Spinach
An irreverent and witty fashion blog written by the editor of The Washington Posts' FW.



A creative look at fashion through the eyes of a woman who loves it as much as I do, but has the wherewithal to live and love it in her work and life. Each post really conveys her enthusiasm for style and design, and it makes me open my mind to perceiving all those "pretty things" with as much joy as she has for them.

Thanks for the laughs
dooce
A hilarious account of being a hip mom raising two precocious kids and two totally cute dogs. Oh, yeah, and there is a supportive husband in the mix too.



Not only is she a fantastically funny writer, she also takes beautiful photos of her daily life, cute videos of her five-year old, and shares some of her favorite things. I can always count on her posts to make me giggle.

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PassiveAggressiveNotes.com
"Painfully polite and hilariously hostile writings from shared spaces the world over."



Classic. Relatable . And, spit-out-your-drink funny.
(I've even submitted one.)

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Oprah's Not the Only One with Favorite Things
An ongoing list of favorite things, with clever musings about why you should make them your favorite things too.



My friend and co-worker Nadia started this blog because she loves to shop and she loves to share her finds. She always keeps it real with a bit of funny thrown-in.


Thanks for the do-good attitude
Operation Nice
A blog that "encourages people to be proactively nice."



It is my go-to-place for daily doses of goodness. Amidst all the anger, resentment and hostility in the world, this blog reminds me that there are people that still take time out of their day to think of others and be kind. There are stories about acts of kindness, assignments on how to be nicer, and links to other Web sites that promote goodwill towards others.

"Thank You" again to all these great bloggers for opening their lives, their opinions and their great finds to the masses.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Pure Dead Brilliant

The Scots are a funny bunch -- they like to laugh; they like to drink; and they do both in their famous Scottish brogue. Their delightful and robust attitude towards life is enough for me to adore their culture. But what makes them even better are two special gifts they unknowingly gave to the fashion world: plaid & houndstooth -- two prints that have withstood the test of time.

Every decade from the late 19th century until today has seen its share of clothing bedecked in plaid or houndstooth. From ornate and cumbersome Victorian dresses to the grunge flannels of Gen-Xers, these prints have carried us through every trend, every style and every piece of clothing we've worn.

And this season is no different. Plaids and hounstooth are back and as the Scots like to say, "pure dead brilliant!" From sexy, curve-hugging dresses to boisterous pumps, these prints are ready to make an imprint on a new century.

Designer Looks

Houndstooth Sheath Dress, Alexander McQueen, $1595; Double-collar Shirt Dress w/Belt, Lela Rose, $995

Bargain Looks

Satin/Plaid 2-Fer Dress, Jodi Kristopher, $46.23; Sleeveless Houndstooth Dress, Jessica Simpson, $87.99; Poetic License Good Vibrations Pumps, Lori's Shoes, $88

Rocker Chic

These days it isn't very hip to be square. Everyone from your grandma to your best friend's baby are tossing aside their cardigans and pastels for the rockin' tough chick look. That means this season it is all about fitted leather jackets, stick-thin, gravity defying stilettos, and studded, chain-linked handbag. And let me tell you, this look is kicking ass and taking names. Hey, sometimes you just gotta be a little bad.

Designer Looks

Leather Motocross Jacket, Vince, $750; Drape Bootie, Dior, $1090; Pelham Shoulder Bag, Gucci, $1695

Bargain Looks

Big Chill Faux-Leather Jacket, Dillard's, $49; BCBG Paris Lyric Patent Platform Bootie, DSW, $59.95; Deux Lux Studded Hobo, Urban Outfitters, $68