Ensembles: Spotlight J.Crew Resort

"It's here, the delicate transition in the fashion world between winter and spring. Dubbed by the couture media as resort, this too-cool-for-cool enigma happens to be my favorite season. Why? I equate bold with luxurious, and that defines resort. The mere idea of a fourth season is bold, the colors are bold, and those who acknowledge it, nay celebrate it, want a little something extra out of life, and their wardrobes.

Couture-label resort collections and their palettes trickle down to a precious few specialty stores and up-market contemporary lines (eg. Dolce and Gabanna's D&G) that are now-enough to design a fourth collection. On the runways, we saw a striking mix of jeweltoned solids and printed pieces --from piped abstracts to modern florals --in resort-friendly fabrics (above left,**J.Crew Piazza sweater jacket $140). As resort tradition would hold, these bold colors were paired with bright shades of white and navy, which I would argue is a jewel all on its own.

Navy is black's long time rival as the staple shade in the "let's look slim today" side of the female wardrobe. I personally don't own much black, and though not a conscious choice in opposition, I am drawn to that deep blue hue. Everything from outerwear to belts; to me navy goes with everything--yes, even black. In fact, J.Crew's newest little black dress also comes in a little navy option: the Vanessa (right). This soft cotton dress with a stunning lace bustier, transcends time. It is, no question, a piece you'll be passing on to your granddaughter. Cover up on cloudy days with the Piazza sweater (above) and if heads don't turn, put on your sunglasses and check your teeth for spinach and lipstick.

So that being said, I welcome the contrasting colors of resort with open arms, donned with Kate Spade sunglasses and cashmere gloves. Color palettes that were once reserved for summer brighten up a winter's day. Sunflower, persimmon, pansy, emerald, and azure are a few of my favorites.

As for prints, let me first say, I love a good print, and baby, my jaw dropped with one look at J.Crew's San Remo vintage design (right). Inspired by 1960s Acapulco, Mr. Drexler and his team at J.Crew, in my opinion, struck gold with this pick. It's available in a silk shirtdress, swingy cotton blouse, merino sweater, canvas shorts, bikini, and ballet flats, as well as various small accessories. Price points from $25-$225. Let me know what you think."

In a word, gorgeous--Lux

**I once worked for J.Crew as a Client Specialist, and this being my premier Lux Life entry, today's Ensembles edition pays homage to a brand, and a team, I hold dear to my heart. My personal collection and eye for quality is much richer thanks to my exposure during my time at the company. Bisous, J.Crew.