Mademoiselle Chanel

 Gabrielle "Coco" Bonheur Chanel was one of, if not the most, iconic fashion designers of all time. She introduced elegant, functional, relaxed and notable clothing that expressed women of the Twentieth Century. We learn something from her because she broke the traditional rules of women's fashion while contributing to a change through her designs. She originated the idea of the Little Black Dress "LBD" while making strands of pearls her trademark. One of her more famous creations was The Chanel Suit. It became acclaimed for its flattering cut, effortless fabric and weighted lining that provided an amazing structure to a woman's body. While Doll Maison celebrates Coco everyday with "Je ne fais pas la mode, je suis la mode" which translates her iconic "I don't do fashion. I AM fashion" on our site, today in honor of what would have been her 129th birthday, we celebrate Coco Chanel day, a day specifically dedicated to the gorgeous, glamorous, genius. I will forever be grateful and inspired by Gabrielle, while she helped pave the way for everyone, especially women, in the fashion industry. Below, enjoy pictures and quotes from the fashionista.

"In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different."

"Dress shabbily and they remember the dress; dress impeccably and they remember the woman."

"A girl should be two things: who and what she wants."

"The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud."

"Women must tell men always that they are the strong ones. They are the big, the strong, the wonderful."

"I don't understand how a woman can leave the house without fixing herself up a little - if only out of politeness. And then, you never know, maybe that's the day she has a date with destiny. And it's best to be as pretty as possibly for destiny."

"How many cares one loses when one decides not to be something but to be someone." 

"Adornment, what a science! Beauty, what a weapon! Modesty, what elegance!"

"Some people think luxury is the opposite of poverty. It is not. It is the opposite of vulgarity."

"A woman has the age she deserves."

FALaLa (Fall Preview 2012)

As I was browsing through some brilliant "September Issue" magazines today, I seriously had some "OMG!," "Die!," and "I want that soooo bad" kinda moments. Really. I have never been more ready for fall. Maybe because I am working retail and boots and cute pants are arriving or  possibly because I am dreaming of when the 100 degree temps will suffocate. Either way, I totes have to share with you what I found, for what to expect and flaunt this fall. 

Flared LBD's

Get this Sheer Accent Flared Dress at Armani Exchange ($128) as your signature fall statement frock. The sheer lace adds the perfect amount of sexy while still keeping it simple and classy. Add fun bangles and earrings to complete the A+ look. 

Pendant Necklaces

Snatch one of these desired Kate Spade New York 'Desert Stone' Long Pendant Necklaces ($98). These are perfect to wear with jeans and a t-shirt. Try keeping everything else simple in your ensemble while adding the perfect touch with this ornate piece.

Bright Coats

Touch up your fall look with a bright coat to liven the outfit. This gorgeous Juicy Couture Chelsea Coat  ($398) is great for those fall days and nights. While most coats are going to be pricey, remember you are investing in something that will last several years. Pick a color that will always be in style such as red or black.

Festive Pants

Totally in love with these Women's Tribal Print Leggings by Kardashian Kollection ($22). While they may market them as leggings, they are thick and comfortable just like a pant. Absolutely a must have! (Top Secret: If you can't get your size online, check your local Sears store. I saw tons this weekend!)

Sparkly Headbands

This spunky headband is great to wear with any outfit you choose for the afternoon. The flirty, Sparkling Beaded Headband ($7) can be found at Forever 21. Toss this on while your beachy locks are blowing in the wind or while sporting a sassy, high pony tail.

Collar Necklaces

Pair your collar necklace over dark separates or a lace blouse. You can also rock one of these with a plunging v-neck to hide a bit of skin, or spice your look up with two collar necklaces, making a simple top look high-end. This Enamel and Python Chain Back Collar Necklace can be purchased at Express ($40).

Purple, Please

One of my favorite colors is having a HUGE, MAJ, moment this fall. Get your purple on whether it be your tops, pants, accessories, sunnies or handbags. You cannot go wrong. These grape colored heels are perfection. Get your tush to Target now and get these Paisley Platform Pumps ($30) just in time for the crisp weather.

This Means Bump

Academy Award, Golden Globe, and MTV Movie Award winning actress Reese Witherspoon is twelve weeks pregnant with her third child, her first with husband of twelve months Jim Toth, according to People Magazine. As a fan of Reese, I am so ecstatic for her and Jim. After all she has been through, she deserves the world of happiness!

Reese sets the style standard for every female of any age in this casual and cute denim dress, caramel colored handbag, and sunnies.

Looking sassy and fun, Reese pairs her navy skirt with a navy and white striped t-shirt. She adds a little spunk to her outfit with some smashing nude wedges.

The "It Girl" rocks a boho casual look with an adorable checked top, skinny jeans, strappy sandals and Ray Ban sunnies.

Wearing a darling hat, simple mocha colored sweater, and jeans, Reese completes her ensemble with a luscious snake skin handbag and pop of color turquoise necklace.

As classy as ever, the All-American girl certainly knows how to evoke Audrey Hepburn with an LBD, precious black flats, and her hair in a bun.

Reese leaves church with her family looking bright and sweet in a white dress and jacket on a Sunday afternoon. We can't wait until Ava and Deacon walk with their new baby brother or sister this fall.