We're not going to patronize you by asking rhetorical questions about whether a $365 dollar sweater is 'worth' it. Let's just call a spade a spade and say that you have the money to spend on such things, you don't, you happened to be first in line to the sample sale, or you wait until it's twenty percent off and buy it online. Anyway, we know it's somewhat boring of us to be exited about a neon pink cardi that looks like something you might find at the Salvation Army, but we can't help ourselves. Truth is, this cardigan, over some wild frock or pair of six inch heels, would get more mileage than anything. In the winter, when long, heavy layers are so necessary, having a bright something to cozy up to is always welcome. To us, this looks like one of those pieces that you put on one freezing cold morning and think yourself, "You know, I'm really glad I ended up buying this." Now, invest in some of the rich indigos from Chloe's Fall 08 collection and you've really made a wise investment. The combination or navy, neon pink, and pale skin almost makes us ready to put our shorts and light frocks in storage and gear up for the long winter.

This wonderful bag is color blocked and a hybrid of two popular handbag shapes. For that reason, the tonal Chloe Joan shoulder bag feels like a fresh design to us. In terms of the shape it's a mix between a bucket bag and a tote. It's a bucket bag in its cylindrical shape and cinched opening but tote-like in that the bottom of the bag has no perpendicular panel of leather. So it's bottomless bucket or some such thing. Anyway, we like it. We're also big fans of the color combination on the bag. We usually carry big, solid color bags and it can be inconvenient. Like, for instance, when your blouse is the same color it can give you a monochrome block-person look without warning. Having a bit of color on your handbag will help break up your look a bit. Net-a-Porter says the hardware is equestrian-inspired which didn't occur to us at first glance but they're right. Anything equestrian has long been across the board okay in Coutortureland, making this handbag next to perfect in our minds. Sigh, if only we didn't see the Forever 21 knock-off coming down the conveyor belt.

This week has been a little rough for Coutorture and many of our friends. We aren't quite sure what the heck is going on in the celestial sphere that so many of our sisters are having troubles. Thankfully community member Catwalk Queen helped cheer us up with a little pink floral cheer. A super hot pink dress with some white hot accessories seem like just the thing to brush off all of the mind clutter of the week. Sure its a little Elle Woods but even the edgiest of fashionistas can probably get behind a See by Chloé mini right? We suggest putting on your brightest dress and singing along to this silly music video. Really, it made us feel better!

One of the first signs that fall is approaching is when you walk into a boutique, or shop online, and you're up to your ears in cardigans. You know the drill, "Oh hmm, it's too early to buy fall clothing but I bet I could cozy up to this on 'cool evenings'"--it's a rationalization we all make. That said, some of the Chloe pre-fall goodies have delivered and one striped cardigan has us thinking that we should blast the AC (not very eco-friendly, we know) and brew up some earl grey for the occasion. Net-a-Porter, always the wordsmith, peddled it like this: "Wear this relaxed knit with a wide belt for your casual weekend look.". Ah ha, seems they get the pre-fall thought process just fine (Go on, project your best self!). We don't know about you guys but our 'casual weekend look' in this heat consists of a one piece swimsuit, shorts, and sandals--if that. Nevertheless, we're tempted.

For Spring 08 Chloe turned out a slew of thick-strap patent sandals in teals, aquas, and nudes. One of our favorites, are the the patent crisscross buckle sandals in turquoise. With a fuschia cone heel, 2 1/2" straps, and metal buckles (similar to those on ski boots), we think these sandals give every pair of Havaianas (yes, even in New York people wear them) a big, decisive 'Outta my way'. For the other shapes and styles, check out our spread below. No matter which pair you choose, bright patent leather that locks onto your foot the same way athletic gear might, is something we don't think anyone will argue with.


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