What's in My Bag: Megan

Admittedly, I am the queen of oversized handbags. I hate feeling like I am leaving home without something I "need." For most of the year, you'll catch me hauling around a bag comparable to myself in size, but for the summer I am much too busy running around to be tied down with too much stuff. This makes a crossbody my go-to summer handbag. This also means I am forced to pare down to just the 'essentials'. Here's what made the cut:

(clockwise, starting from upper left corner)

-L.A.M.B. "Kiss Me" Card Case - I stash my credit cards, I.D., and miscellaneous receipts in here.

-Jane Iredale Pressed Powder - This stuff feels and looks INCREDIBLE. I am a huge fan of mineral makeup foundations. Although Bare Essentials is my all time favorite, this Jane Iredale powder is pressed-- a major pro since I'm throwing it in my bag. (Most mineral foundations that I've come across come in loose powder form. EEEK! Anyone who has ever had a eyeshadow or blush crumble in their purse know this is a huge no-no. Typically, I keep all cosmetics in a makeup bag, but there's no room amidst this mere essentials list!)

- Ralph Lauren Tortoise Aviators - I fell in love with these as soon as I tried them on (rarely can I say this about most sunglasses, unfortunately). I have a heart shaped face, so aviators are typically my go-to frames. The tortoise color has a really contrasted light/dark pattern, giving the shades a vintage vibe. Now, if only I could find the perfect pair of classic, oversized shades...

- M.Z. Wallace Platinum Leather "Bettie" Pouch: From Trocadero, of course! I'm head over heels for this little guy. He's the perfect wallet for a smaller handbag, and my future iPhone 4 will fit perfectly inside him.

-Monster coin purse - This pouch actually came with a gift card from Anthropologie I received last Christmas, and I loved him so much I had to put him to use. I usually feed him with coins for the meter.

 -Emergen-C Fizzy drink mix - Whenever I feel a cold coming on or when I simply want something more than plain water, I mix a packet of Emergen-C in my water bottle. It's tasty and good for you!

-Pop-up Brush with Mirror - I MUST have a brush on me at all times. My hair is too long and too unruly to go without one. (That reminds me of something that didn't but definitely should have made my list: NAIL FILES! I am always in need of one of these! I'm not overly obsessed with my nails, but once my nail snags on something I cannot for the life of me leave it alone.)

-Lip Balm/Lip Gloss - Right now I'm carrying the Laura Mercier Hydra Tint in Nude. It's a great summer color (the perfect not too tan/not too pale nude), is mosturizing and has SPF 15. I'm also carrying Origins Once Upon a Shine lip gloss in Ruby Slipper. I own several of the Once Upon a Shine glosses, and they all deliver just enough lip color and have a pretty shimmer to them without being 'sparkly'. 

-Moleskine Planner - I compulsively make lists and write everything down. Embarrassingly enough, I'm very territorial about my notebooks and planners...they're for my eyes only!

-Canon S95 - My new love affair. I have a lovely Nikon DSLR, but it's much too large to carry with me all the time. This camera is the perfect travel size and takes lovely photos!
'
-Purse: Rebecca Minkoff Morning After Clutch in Black - This purse can be worn as a crossbody, as a shoulder bag (as shown in the photo) or it can be used as a clutch. Talk about multifunctional! When the clock strikes midnight and my tiny summer purse morphs into my oversized handbag for the school year, it still makes the perfect evening clutch.

Ruffle into Spring

The other day, I couldn't help but notice Cygne's gray ruffle sweater. I loved the lightweight cashmere look, the soft gray, the pretty ruffle yolk and I really loved the "belled" sleeve-cuff. She admitted she stole it out of her Mom's closet; it goes to show how a simple item like this sweater can really span ages. The sweater happens to be from Ann Taylor, a place known more for its work looks for a more mature customer. Let's just say when I was an editor, it was pretty rare for any of us to wear clothing from Ann Taylor, Talbots and the like. But as I believe I have mentioned before, Ann Taylor has really put out some really good looking items as of late and I'm definitely going to have to check out what's new for Spring.

Speaking of Spring...where did it go? The warmer weather came and disappeared in Omaha this past week. April is always a bit fickle but I can't really complain as I know we're heading into summer, slowly...but surely. And that means it's finally time to start thinking about Spring Wardrobe Updaters. All month long, we'll be offering our ideas of what to incorporate into your spring and summer wardrobe from head-to-toe. The first tip comes courtesy of intern Jamie. With the transition from colder

temps to warmer ones, it's the perfect time to step out in the peep-toe bootie. We really love this one at the Troc from LAMB...and it's on sale! This bootie also incorporates another one of Jamie's Spring Trends: Cutouts. Seen all over the runways from Balmain to Marc Jacobs, cutouts didn't leave much to the imagination. So if you're a little shy about baring your soul (and shoulders and stomach), try the cut out peep toe bootie. You'll be knocking off two trends in one item...

Logo-ed OUT

It's no secret at the Troc that we aren't the biggest fans of Coach logo bags. I think part of the problem is that for the same amount of money you can purchase a bag with style and not be carrying the same thing as everyone else. These days, the classic hobo style featured on the bottom will set you back $358. That's a lot of money to look like an unfashionable clone.

As a fashion editor, I loved watching the direction that the creative director, Reed Krakoff, had taken the brand and liked many of the leather offerings, small accessories and outerwear. I own many wonderful Bonnie Cashin-era Coach bags and still love the classic turn lock closure on my very The Official Preppy Handbook-style leather pocket bag and mini backpack. I have a great leather coat, a shearling and the most vintage-looking trench coat cape from my years of covering the brand. I was even the very lucky recipient of a custom-made satchel in suede with pastel python trim, stitched inside with "Made exclusively by Reed Krakoff of Coach for Alice Kim."

So don't get me wrong; I like the Coach brand for its great American heritage, its workmanship and classic lines. I just wish that women would branch out from the brown logo (or worse yet, the pastel ones) and either get a beautiful leather bag from them (like the one featured here, which is $398, only $40 more than the not-stylish-at-all logo hobo) or look to other designers who are making very fashionable totes and purses. At Trocadero, we feature handbags from MZ Wallace, Rafe, Botkier, Be & D, Anya Hindmarch and L.A.M.B by Gwen Stefani. Trust me when I say that I've seen almost every brand out there. I try to bring the best bags at various price points and for the greatest value for what you're getting. And you'll be happy to know that you're one of only a few who have the bag, especially in Omaha. As a former magazine editor, I know women spend lots of money because they want to look good and seem fashionable. And that's why I'm telling you that there is not one fashion editor in America who is carrying a logo Coach bag. There's a reason for that.

So the next time you're at your local mall, resist the urge to buy something with that logo print. Actually resist the urge to buy a brand that everyone else has. If one day your fantasy is to be a fashion editor or stylist, it's all about having a unique point-of-view. So that means not being a follower. Plus, as a twenty-two year old do you really want to be carrying the same bag that many married forty-year olds with three kids are toting around at their local grocery store?

image source of logo bags

image source of leather bag

Accessories that Speak for Themselves

Bitter winter winds can leave you feeling in a rut and reluctant to leave the house, but giving a little lift to your winter wardrobe with accessories can be just the ticket you need out of the doldrums.

Accessories can liven up outfits and add instant glam to any look. Detailed accessories can take your look to new heights, and luckily Trocadero has the perfect picks at the right prices just in time for the holidays. Patterns, exotic skins, and other embellishments add excitement to any ensemble.

Accessories That Pack a Little Punch by shoptrocadero

Brilliant hues are a great contrast to the white winter palette. Chunky jewelry like the Kara Ross enamel bangles can add a punch of color that makes plain pieces like a solid crewneck pop. Rafe's red patent bag stands out too with it's bold color and sheen as well as the pleating detail on the front.

Add a little variety to your look with exotic textures from Rafe's wristlets in stamped crocodile leather or a Kara Ross python cuff. Fur always evokes luxury, and with Ulu's rabbit fur boots looking chic is both functional and stylish.

Vibrant patterns can take an outfit to a whole other level. An ornate patterned accessory like Yarnz cashmere scarves can breathe new life into old threads. Pair one of them under a blazer with a white oxford shirt for a playful work outfit or even for a weekend casual option. LAMB's tiger/newsprint tote gives a funky twist to a classic color combination and the gold studs take it one step further. A subtle woodgrain accentuated by crystals is where rustic meets elegance in the Devi Kroell box clutch.

Give the gift of style with these and other great accessories from Trocadero. Stop in this week for extra savings off all items in the store during our BIGGEST SALE EVENT OF THE YEAR!

Two for the Road: 10/9/09

Date: 10/9/09

Bag: Prada gold and brown brocade small tote

Shoe: LAMB by Gwen Stefani peep toe bootie in black and brown

Worn with: Badgley Mischka brown faille and tulle skirt, Cynthia Steffe cream cashmere sweater with pearl and crystal bib

I had a cocktail event to attend to that night so I had to wear something a little more dressy to work. I also had a vintage fur stole (that I practically stole for like $40, purchased in Walnut, Iowa) that I wore that evening. The bag is from a trip to Milan (my twice yearly Prada purchase) and the booties are from LAMB and currently in store at Trocadero! They are truly so hot. I love 'em. The skirt was a borrow from James and Mark before an event and the PR Director told me I could keep it. I know you can't see the sweater; but it is a scoop neck and has rows of pearls and a crystal brooch. I bought it on sale somewhere I cannot remember...

The Trocadero Top Twenty *Tips #20-#6*

Late August we started our countdown to Fall and came up with the Trocadero TOP 20 Trends to Incorporate into your Wardrobe. From what to buy (cheaply), to search for (in your own closet or someone else's), to invest in or what to skip, these tips should help you make wise decisions of how to spend your money this fall season. Below you'll find our top 15 tips so far....tune into next week when we reveal our final 5 tips.

The Trocadero Top Twenty: Our Must-Have Items To Get You Through The Fall Fashion Season (Tips 20-15)

20. It's not just the temperature outside that's stuck in the 80s. The decade of excess, shoulder pads, neon, metallic studding, leggings and acid washed jeans are all back in full fashion force. Just be careful not to pile it all on at once or you'll risk looking like a true fashion victim. Search for a vintage 80s strong-shoulder blazer in your closet (or your Mom's) or at a thrift/consignment shop (like Esther's on 75th St. north of Pacific), buy inexpensive leggings in black, metallics or neons at Target or American Apparel, skip the acid washed jeans (or just bleach an old pair at home) and invest in a studded accessory (because trust me, this trend will always come back every few years). We love this look from Balmain (above) and this Be & D shoulder bag available right now at the Troc.

19. Nothing is more polished this season than a crisp white cotton button shirt. The good thing is that this style is available almost everywhere at every price. If you're prone to spilling and yellowing underarms, stick to more throwaway shirts that you can ditch after a season or two. I love the Simply Vera by Vera Wang one from Kohl's with a tuxedo-style front pleating detail.

18. Black tie isn't just for after-hours. Whether it's double-breasted, black, with a notched lapel or my personal favorite: the shawl-collar, a tuxedo jacket is a fresh, new look to pair with a feminine, flirty mini skirt or pair of skinny leggings or jeans. There are tons of designer versions out there to invest in from Stella McCartney, Thakoon, See by Chloe and others. This is a great classic jacket that is current but great to have for years to come so I'd say spend the money and get a really fabulous one if you can.

17. Look Ma, No Hands! This season it's all about the hands-free bag. Whether it's a messenger-style large tote or one that is big enough to just hold the essentials, a cross-body bag is something every wardrobe should have. And at the Troc we have many styles from L.A.M.B., MZ Wallace and Anya Hindmarch (coming soon). Here, is the Paige from MZ Wallace...we love it in this black color but the nutmeg is equally delicious.

16. Steal from Dad's closet. It's all about menswear this fall season so take a cue from Daddy dearest and incorporate some of his houndstooth, herringbone and pinstripe patterns into your own closet. While you might not be able to physically wear his clothes, at least steal the inspiration. At least grab a tie (one size fits all). There's a reason why ex-NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani stopped me on a street corner when I was wearing a navy blazer, white shirt, tie and khaki...shorts. Ok, so maybe the shorts was the real reason (he and his whole crew were wearing my same look minus the shorts). I like menswear mixed with some femininity (in my case it was the shorts). But for fall, I would pair it with a wool pencil skirt, bermudas, a pair of high heel pumps. You get the idea. Just don't be afraid to embrace your testosterone.

source of runway photo from style.com

*These next tips from Tidbits 08.26.09*

15. Make a Statement. A "wow" necklace can really make an entrance and truly transform any hum-drum outfit. Think multi-strand chains, chunky, bauble styles in jewel tone colors to complement fall's earth tones when searching for the right piece. We love this one from Kara by Kara Ross (available at Trocadero) and would pair it with a tweed blazer, crisp blouse, slim jeans and an oxford bootie. For more of our styling tips, check out our Personal Stylist page of our website.

14. Get your motor running. We've been talking about it for months and yes, it's true...the biker jacket is the key piece to own. If you find a fabulous one at a thrift store, grab it while you can. Otherwise, there are plenty of choices both online and in stores so just search for one that suits you and your budget. Wear it with something softer on bottom such as a satin knee-length skirt or sweater dress.

13. Be like Sporty Spice. While we might live in a more Posh Spice-centric, a.k.a. Victoria Beckham, world, rugby stripes, polo shirts, shorts and sneakers look equally at home next to fur trim, rhinestones, satins and boucle suits. Incorporate and layer the pieces to create rugged ladylike silhouettes or preppy glamour looks.

This L.A.M.B. "Lambert" tote is one of our favorite bags at the Troc for its versatile handheld and long shoulder strap. And of course for its sporty stripes. It's ample size is large enough to fit a laptop and some some knee pad guards for that rugby game after work.

12. Up, up and away! The over-the-knee boot this season is almost like a second skin, especially if you live in colder climates (hello, can we say O-M-A-H-A in December thru February?). Good thing that the Troc has come prepared to offer the bomb of a boot from Joie: the black Caravan double-zipper thigh high leather style. Most of the boots on the runway are on a heel but we love the fact that this is practical, chic, oh-so-stylish, super cool and most importantly FLAT. We're counting the days when it arrives on our doorstep courtesy of our awesome UPS man, Bob. He's almost as much as the bomb as the boots. Here, a sneak peak. And if you're worried because you're petite, have no fear: this boot looked great on Kim from Joie who is not much taller than 5'2". But if you need a heel, we do have these incredible Giuseppe Zanotti thigh-high boots on a hidden platform heel.

11. Show some shoulder.
It's a season about showing some skin. Whether it's a mini dress or skirt or the one shoulder or one sleeve top or dress, the designers want you to liberate your legs and your arms. Remember Freida Pinto at the Oscars (in John Galliano)? For fall, Oscar de la Renta showcased a few gorgeous dresses with the bare shoulder look, such as this stunning jewel tone one at left. If you want to do the ultimate one-two punch: this Emilio Pucci hot pink mini dress with one sleeve will do double, or triple duty (the hot pink makes it a trifecta).

10. Grab a sweater. As soon as Labor Day is over, it seems like nature automatically turns on the switch button to cooler temps. And it makes us reach for our oversized sweatshirts and cableneck sweaters. While it's always sweater season come autumn, this year it's more about the style of sweaters that are essential to updating your wardrobe. Think oversized, chunky, long and short sleeve. Yes, short-sleeve. The way to wear this is by wearing a long sleeved button down or a long sleeved cotton shell. And when it's really cold, wear it over a cashmere-blend turtleneck. Keep the pants slim or wear a pencil skirt and use a belt to break up the look. There are so many affordable options of the short-sleeved, chunky sweater; many I have seen are under $45.

9. Lace it up. When it comes to footwear this fall, there are a few must-haves to make sure you have in your wardrobe. One trend (and truly a classic style) is the oxford. It works well with all the menswear looks this season but also grounds a more feminine outfit. I really love the oxford bootie on a heel, such as this one called the Blimey from Seychelles. It is such a fabulous style on a hidden one-inch platform that not only will give you great height but is super comfortable...to boot (no pun intended). Its versatility to pair with jeans, dresses, skirts and trousers makes it an all-around shoe/bootie to have in your closet season after season. This is definitely a style you can invest in but we really love all the affordable options out there as well.

8. Drink and think Guinness. I'm not advocating consuming alcoholic beverages; instead I'm talking about drinking in the color palette of the famed Irish beer. Black and tans make a tasty combination when it comes to your wardrobe (and the drink isn't so bad either -- and contrary to what you'd expect, Guinness is not higher in carbs or calories than most beers!).
Whether you take inspiration from the gradient colors of the Guinness as it's poured alone or when it's mixed with a pale ale for the classic black and tan, we think that everyone's eyes will be smilin' when you're sporting colors of rich browns, dark chocolates, earthy tans and ecru beiges.
Just look at some of the accessories at the Troc and you'll get the message.

7. Be somewhat Peta-friendly. I know many people are against wearing fur and this might not be a trend where everyone will go on board. But it is definitely an item-driven season and the fur jacket or fur-trimmed coat is something that looks equally chic with a cocktail dress or a pair of well-worn jeans.

We love all the faux-fur options out there as well such as the Rachel Zoe for QVC line debuting on September 12th (photo courtesy of Instyle.com). But if you want the real deal and are on a budget (and maybe don't want to support the new trade of new fur), then go vintage. It's definitely much more cost-conscious, easier on the psyche and honestly, the designs are true originals. This is where estate sales or antiquing come in handy. A short-drive from Omaha, Walnut, Iowa is an antiquing mecca with shop-after-shop of incredible wares for incredibly low prices. This mink capelet is a fraction of what it would have cost brand new and it was in terrific shape. It also reminds us of Doris Day in the movie, That Touch of Mink.

6. Make them green with envy. The perfect complement to fall's hues of grays, burgundys and chocolates is an accent color of green. We love Rachel Bilson with this cute pop of hunter green color in her shoulder bag and love the small shape as well (photo courtesy of people.com). At Trocadero, we like to take the green in a different direction: on our nails. Rescue Beauty Lounge has launched this brand new color for Fall called Orbis Non Sufficit (Latin for "the world is not enough") and we love the hue with charcoal and deep wine reds. This color and twelve other delectable hues from Rescue Beauty Lounge are all available at Trocadero. Don't forget about your nails, girls. They're just like any other accessory in your wardrobe!

Feels Like Fall

The weather in Omaha this past weekend was unseasonably cool. Rather than melting from sweltering 90 degree days, we enjoyed early-Fall-like temperatures in the low-to-mid 70s. As I pulled on my jean jacket over my sundress, I got to thinking about what I plan to wear when the season officially changes to Autumn. I'm looking forward to bundling myself in warm, rich colors and materials, such as flannel, and accessorizing with camel, hunter green, maroon and navy shoes and handbags. For some reason, whenever I think about Fall, I envision camping and hunting in the woods, sitting around the fire making s'mores at night. Let it be known that I've never done any of these things in my life, but a girl can daydream, can't she?

In an ideal world, I'd carry my red Rafe clutch inside my sage L.A.M.B "Alwar" tote and wear my L.A.M.B. Rosebury booties with opaque tights when I went to work. On the weekends I'd make the boots more casual by pairing them with a pair of skinny jeans and Kara by Kara Ross hoop earrings, which remind me of tree branches. Of course I'd have to burn a Diptyque Feu De Bois candle because it smells like a wood-burning fire!

What does Fall make you think of?

The Trocadero Top Twenty

It's mid-August but surprisingly it seems as if everyone is back-to-school already. What happened to summer vacation? I'd like to take a cue from the Europeans and be on holiday the whole month of August but in the real world of the U.S.A., it seems like summer break has been cut short and everyone is in back-to-school mode. That also means that the shops are full of fall/winter merchandise even though most of the nation is in 80-100 degree weather.

At the Troc, we have our first shipments of fall. In the coming weeks we'll have our website up and running with all our new fall merchandise from Botkier, L.A.M.B., Marc by Marc Jacobs, Rafe, Be & D, Harajuku Lovers, Anya Hindmarch and much more.

In this week's Trocadero Tidbits newsletter, we featured the story, "The Trocadero Top Twenty" which is our picks for the trends in which you should BUY, SEARCH, SKIP or INVEST. I think the key to shopping during this downward economy is to follow those words above and use our guide to make wise purchasing decisions. We know how hard you work for your money and we want to make sure your dollar goes a long way.

Tune in each week as we reveal more tips until you're all set with our TOP TWENTY. Happy Shopping!

The Trocadero Top Twenty: Our Must-Have Items To Get You Through The Fall Fashion Season

20. It's not just the temperature outside that's stuck in the 80s. The decade of excess, shoulder pads, neon, metallic studding, leggings and acid washed jeans are all back in full fashion force. Just be careful not to pile it all on at once or you'll risk looking like a true fashion victim. Search for a vintage 80s strong-shoulder blazer in your closet (or your Mom's) or at a thrift/consignment shop (like Esther's on 75th St. north of Pacific), buy inexpensive leggings in black, metallics or neons at Target or American Apparel, skip the acid washed jeans (or just bleach an old pair at home) and invest in a studded accessory (because trust me, this trend will always come back every few years). We love this look from Balmain (above) and this Be & D shoulder bag available right now at the Troc.

19. Nothing is more polished this season than a crisp white cotton button shirt. The good thing is that this style is available almost everywhere at every price. If you're prone to spilling and yellowing underarms, stick to more throwaway shirts that you can ditch after a season or two. I love the Simply Vera by Vera Wang one from Kohl's with a tuxedo-style front pleating detail.

18. Black tie isn't just for after-hours. Whether it's double-breasted, black, with a notched lapel or my personal favorite: the shawl-collar, a tuxedo jacket is a fresh, new look to pair with a feminine, flirty mini skirt or pair of skinny leggings or jeans. There are tons of designer versions out there to invest in from Stella McCartney, Thakoon, See by Chloe and others. This is a great classic jacket that is current but great to have for years to come so I'd say spend the money and get a really fabulous one if you can.

17. Look Ma, No Hands! This season it's all about the hands-free bag. Whether it's a messenger-style large tote or one that is big enough to just hold the essentials, a cross-body bag is something every wardrobe should have. And at the Troc we have many styles from L.A.M.B., MZ Wallace and Anya Hindmarch (coming soon). Here, is the Paige from MZ Wallace...we love it in this black color but the nutmeg is equally delicious.

16. Steal from Dad's closet. It's all about menswear this fall season so take a cue from Daddy dearest and incorporate some of his houndstooth, herringbone and pinstripe patterns into your own closet. While you might not be able to physically wear his clothes, at least steal the inspiration. At least grab a tie (one size fits all). There's a reason why ex-NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani stopped me on a street corner when I was wearing a navy blazer, white shirt, tie and khaki...shorts. Ok, so maybe the shorts was the real reason (he and his whole crew were wearing my same look minus the shorts). I like menswear mixed with some femininity (in my case it was the shorts). But for fall, I would pair it with a wool pencil skirt, bermudas, a pair of high heel pumps. You get the idea. Just don't be afraid to embrace your testosterone.

source of runway photo from style.com

*These next tips from Tidbits 08.26.09*

15. Make a Statement. A "wow" necklace can really make an entrance and truly transform any hum-drum outfit. Think multi-strand chains, chunky, bauble styles in jewel tone colors to complement fall's earth tones when searching for the right piece. We love this one from Kara by Kara Ross (available at Trocadero) and would pair it with a tweed blazer, crisp blouse, slim jeans and an oxford bootie. For more of our styling tips, check out our Personal Stylist page of our website.

14. Get your motor running. We've been talking about it for months and yes, it's true...the biker jacket is the key piece to own. If you find a fabulous one at a thrift store, grab it while you can. Otherwise, there are plenty of choices both online and in stores so just search for one that suits you and your budget. Wear it with something softer on bottom such as a satin knee-length skirt or sweater dress.

13. Be like Sporty Spice. While we might live in a more Posh Spice-centric, a.k.a. Victoria Beckham, world, rugby stripes, polo shirts, shorts and sneakers look equally at home next to fur trim, rhinestones, satins and boucle suits. Incorporate and layer the pieces to create rugged ladylike silhouettes or preppy glamour looks.

This L.A.M.B. "Lambert" tote is one of our favorite bags at the Troc for its versatile handheld and long shoulder strap. And of course for its sporty stripes. It's ample size is large enough to fit a laptop and some some knee pad guards for that rugby game after work.

12. Up, up and away! The over-the-knee boot this season is almost like a second skin, especially if you live in colder climates (hello, can we say O-M-A-H-A in December thru February?). Good thing that the Troc has come prepared to offer the bomb of a boot from Joie: the black Caravan double-zipper thigh high leather style. Most of the boots on the runway are on a heel but we love the fact that this is practical, chic, oh-so-stylish, super cool and most importantly FLAT. We're counting the days when it arrives on our doorstep courtesy of our awesome UPS man, Bob. He's almost as much as the bomb as the boots. Here, a sneak peak. And if you're worried because you're petite, have no fear: this boot looked great on Kim from Joie who is not much taller than 5'2". But if you need a heel, we do have these incredible Giuseppe Zanotti thigh-high boots on a hidden platform heel.

11. Show some shoulder.
It's a season about showing some skin. Whether it's a mini dress or skirt or the one shoulder or one sleeve top or dress, the designers want you to liberate your legs and your arms. Remember Freida Pinto at the Oscars (in John Galliano)? For fall, Oscar de la Renta showcased a few gorgeous dresses with the bare shoulder look, such as this stunning jewel tone one at left. If you want to do the ultimate one-two punch: this Emilio Pucci hot pink mini dress with one sleeve will do double, or triple duty (the hot pink makes it a trifecta).

Season's change

Fall is--and always has been--my favorite season. Come mid-August I'm already itching to put on sweaters and boots, to snuggle in an over sized scarf and to start my yearly slew of knitting projects (a huge shawl and a cabled scarf are on my needles as we speak.) Last Sunday at Trocadero I noticed a hint of season's change in the air; the bright hues of summer are slowly being exchanged for the rich hues of fall.

Touches of navy--in M.Z. Wallace and L.A.M.B. handbags, in Giuseppe Zanotti pumps--caught my eye. Some fetching new pieces from Kara Ross' line in rich gold, navy and emerald stood out in the jewelry case. A set of ten aubergine-hued Rescue Beauty Lounge fingernails suddenly felt of the moment, especially when one has a matching bag in hand. New styles from Botkier fit the bill. A buttery soft flat--again from Giuseppe--with a shiny gold capped toe felt new when I thought of wearing it with thick ribbed tights and a tweedy blazer.

Here's to fall!

To cover or not to cover? That is the question.

One thing to definitely consider as we start to slowly roll into cooler climates ahead is transitioning your peep toe heels into Fall and further into the colder months.

Heels and Tights are still very much IN, which means that those cute, peep toe heels you've been sporting are to going to get even more wear this Fall & Winter. This works great with like colors like black on black but daring colors and patterns can be just as chic.

Trocadero not only has heels that will transition into your Fall & Winter wardrobe, but these Brian Atwood heels are on SALE too!! The Lidia Self Platform and the Trixi Platform Pump are great shoes to work into your wardrobe right now and into Fall.

,

Use these accessories to create a look and feel around these fabulous heels!

Preview our Independence Day sale!

If you've been holding out on that perfect pair of shoes, that bag you've been dreaming of or your favorite Bond fragrance, the wait is over. Trocadero is chock-full of must-have items, and we're welcoming our best customers to a special pre-Fourth of July summer sale. Many items are more than half off, and customers who come in and make a purchase before Independence Day will enjoy an additional discount off their next purchase: $25 off each $100 spent. Just mention the code: FIREWORKS! and you'll receive the extra discount off both your full-priced and sale merchandise!

At Trocadero, it's truly Christmas in July. If you can't head to the Old Market soon, come and visit us online. We ship to the continental U.S. and any purchases over $250 qualify for Free Ground Shipping thru July 3rd.

One of our biggest sale items has got to be the Be & D "Kan Kan" tote, seen on the arm of Eva Longoria and on the set of Gossip Girl. It originally retails for $1395 and is marked down to $1195. Made of supple leather and roomy enough to go from day to night, this bag will become a wardrobe staple. Be quick or else you'll miss out -- we only have one Kan Kan tote...

Marc by Marc Jacobs' black patent mouse flat has been a best seller at Trocadero, and the sizes left are now marked down, from $250 to $150. The navy and black patent mouse loafer from Marc by Marc Jacobs (seen above) is only $250 from $455. Go to the Trocadero website to see what other shoes we have on sale. Click on 'more shoes' to see our older styles reduced up to 75% off! Bettye Muller slingbacks for $75, L.A.M.B. mesh skimmers for $50! We even have Giuseppe Zanottis and Brian Atwoods marked down over 40% off. Get Drew Barrymore's, Reese Witherspoon's, Anne Hathaway's and Gwyneth Paltrow's favorite styles at Trocadero.

source Eva Longoria: Coolspotters.com

Five hold-overs

We've talked about shopping your own closet a lot here on Troc Talk and in our weekly Trocadero Tidbits newsletter, so I've had it on my mind. As I go through my purchases from the previous summer in my own closet, I've found a few things that I know I'll be rocking all summer long (as well as a few things I plan to donate to my local consignment shop.) It just so happens that a lot of the items on my list are things we carry at Trocadero, so if you didn't pick up an ec0-chic tote or a pair of gladiator sandals last summer, you're still in luck. 

Here's my list of the top five holdover looks for the impending Omaha heat. 

1. Strappy Gladiator Sandals. Whether you opt for a comfortable flat style for everyday wear or a sexier high heeled number, last summer's Greek-inspired sandals are my top pick for what to hold on to or to invest in now. At Trocadero, we have lots to choose from: Matt Bernson's studded red "Barracuda," L.A.M.B.'s "Fuji" with its fetching triangular heel (pictured at left) or a metallic gladiator by Bettye Muller or DV Dolce Vita. I tried the "Fuji" on last weekend and can't get it out of my head. 

2. Oversized Clutches. For day or night, or day-to-night style, an oversized clutch is both chic and sensible. 

I have a number of vintage numbers at home, but if I were going to invest in a new one, my number one choice would be Anya Hindmarch's "Large Pipkin" clutch, pictured at right. It's perfect for day or night, neutral enough to be worn with everything but has gorgeous detail on the front clasp. It's an investment piece, to be sure, but one that you'd pass down to your daughters or neices without fail. I also love Kara Ross clutches, in both gold and burlap with python details, and the L.A.M.B "Ahndra Bala" clutch that Gwen herself recently carried. 

3. Eco-chic gear. We all know how important it is to be friendly to Mother Earth, and Trocadero helps us do it stylishly. I'm still planning to rock my Anya "I'm not a Plastic Bag" tote this summer, but if you missed out on that trend, you can check out her latest foray into eco-chic with the much-blogged about Fruit and Veg, Meat or Dairy totes. You can also pick up a canvas tote screened right here in Omaha by artist Miss Cake; we have a few in stock. New this summer is BC Footwear's "Danke" sandal, pictured above, which boldly advertises what it used to be: a rice bag. These comfy flip flops are not only eco-friendly, they're super cute. What's more is that beacuse they're made of old rice bags, each pair is singular, with subtle details that differ from pair to pair. Alice also carries a super cute phone or mp3 player case, also made from colorful recycled rice bags. 

4. Cross body bags (for day or night). Though I usually carry an

oversized bag stuffed to the gills with odds and ends, I'm totally into the idea of downsizing for the summer. I'd love to do it with Botkier's soft green "Moto" clutch, which is a petite sister to my white Botkier "Trigger" bag (that, coincidentally, Alice has too!) I prefer this beauty in green, though Trocadero also has it in black. If you're looking for a vegan style, we have a number of cross body bags in canvas and nylon by Harajuku Lovers. Botkier's "Marcel" is made for hot city nights with its long chain strap and woven gold detail on its sides. 

5. Wearing SPF every day. What's more important than our skin? I've long been a devotee of strong sunscreen, and I think its become more than a trend. It's a necessity. Luckily, lots of skin care lines are aware of the importance of skin protection, and Alice, is too: all of the face creams at Trocadero include an SPF. Korres makes both a lightweight pomegranate moisturizer and a wild rose moisturizer (at left) with SPF 6, as well as a watermelon moisturizer with SPF 30 (for pale girls like me.) Ole Henriksen has two SPF 15 moisturizers, one for normal skin and one for dry/sensitive skin. Malin+Goetz makes a SPF 30 moisturizer that we have in the store, and finally, for your little ones, pick up a tube of Susan Brown's Baby SPF 30.

Now that I've reviewed my list of summer hold-overs, tell us, what do you plan to hold on to or purchase before it gets hot in Omaha?