Quite Continental

With everyone’s attention turning to S/S 2011, and Pre-fall after that, I decided to take one last look at what remains of the Winter sales.  Not the time to finally buy that “of the moment” Fall/Winter investment piece (unless you don’t mind that you don’t have much time to wear it), I usually cast a rigid eye on the (usually very picked over) selection.  I look for classic pieces that will work forever and for transition pieces that will work in the immediately upcoming seasons.  A few of my finds are below, but be sure to check out the online boutiques yourself!

Rugby Ralph Lauren Shrunken Button-Cuff Crewneck
Originally $79.50, now $39.99This is practically a no-brainer purchase — cable-knit is the epitome of classic  — and is currently available in 6 colors.  The detail at the cuff is slightly reminiscent of the military trend that was really big for Fall/Winter, but it comes off more genteel here — like the timeless combination of gold buttons on a navy blazer.  Scoop it here.

Rugby Ralph Lauren New Essex Velvet Jacket
Originally $228, now $169.99

Like it or not, velvet figures big for Spring/Summer 2011 – here’s a chance to pick up a transitional piece at a reduced price.  Personally, I’ve always had a soft spot for velvet – at 13 I cajoled my mother to buy me an electric blue velvet blazer that I wore until it was threadbare – so any old excuse to add to my collection will do.  I especially like the tuxedo trim on this jacket — makes me want to listen to Frank Sinatra while sipping a gin gimlet.  Scoop it here.

Lauren Ralph Lauren Striped Grosgrain Ribbon Belt
Originally $38.00, now $9.99

The grosgrain ribbon belt is a prep classic, and is currently available in three different colors.  Even if you aren’t a prep at heart, this Spring/Summer is all about vibrant combinations of bright colors and patterns.  This belt is a great way to incorporate a little color into your wardrobe.  Scoop it here.

Freda Cecile Dress
Originally $505.60, now $202.24

After her LBD, every girl needs a LRD – and this shift dress by Freda is a versatile dress that can go from day to night, depending on how you dress it up or down.  For day, try it with a swingy blazer and nude heels, for evening pair it with black tights, a sky high black heel and statement bijoux.  Scoop it here. 

**It’s also worth mentioning that Matches took even deeper cuts (up to 70%!) to their sale this morning**

Joie French Dot Silk Top
Originally $284.46, now $141.37
This top promises to be classic and current at the same time.  While the dots are a classic nautical-inspired choice, the dolman sleeves and the delicate silk will be in tune with the ladylike look of Spring/Summer.  Pair this with another graphic print or cinch it with a full skirt – the possibilities are endless.  Scoop it here.

J.Crew Camden suede brogues
Originally $250, now $198
I’ve been a fan of J.Crew’s Camden brogues for a long time – and here is a chance to get them in stone-colored suede, just in time for Memorial Day…if you care to follow those rules.  Menswear for women isn’t going anywhere, so these are a solid buy.  Scoop them here.

Reiss Dezrae Trench
Originally $485, now $183
When pressed to pick one classic piece that makes me think “spring,” it’s got to be the trench coat.  If you’re already covered with a classic khaki-colored trench — an essential! — here is a chance to pick up an alternate in a fun color.  Only one size left, so you’ve got to act fast.  Scoop it here.

Happy hunting!