The Justification: Best items to justify from the End of 2009 sale:

Charlotte Ronson Beach Tie Dress

Justification #1: The darker colors and subtle details make this beauty an eye catcher in the summer months and a stylish, cold-but-do-able choice in the winter months.

Justification #2: This dress also hides stains extremely well. Especially when the drunk girl at the wedding you're attending spills her entire drink on you. Trust me.

Justification #3: This dress is 70% off. I swear you're going to hate yourself if you don't just buy it now.

Simon Miller M002 in Pacific

Justification #1: Simon Millers for 50% off? Yes please.

Justification #2: These aren't in production anymore, so grab these while you still can!

Sale!

Up to 70% off!

Said in Context

"Let's be honest, the reality rarely lives up to the romance and I am OK with that—I think we all could benefit from letting ourselves get lost in the romance of an idea or perception instead of having to know every excruciating detail of reality."

Scott Schuman, aka thesartorialist.com

Greetings

End of 2009 Sale going on now online!

The Justification: What's new/My newest obsessions/Last minute gift ideas

Filippa K Down Rib Jacket

Justification #1: So this jacket is my number one current obsession...and it should be yours, too.

Justification #2: It's also new.

Justification #3: And, it would make a really great last minute gift idea. Yeah, it's a little pricey for something you're going to give away but that's what you get for waiting until the last minute.

Giles&Brother Marjorie Bracelet

Justification #1: Okay, maybe $475 is a little much for a gift. If I was going to receive a gift that wasn't the Filippa jacket, this would be my second pick (hint, hint).

Justification #2: It's also a lot less expensive. (Notice how I put the most expensive item first...$150 for a gift isn't looking so bad now, is it?)

Giles&Brother Leather Wrap Around Bracelet

Justification #1: And for those guys that are so freaking hard to shop for...this wrap bracelet is perfect because it's manly and won't make them look like girly.

Justification #2: Unless that's the look they want. Then it does. It also looks really good on girls!

Notes On: Getting Waisted

Fortunately for you, this post is not about last Thursday's antics which resulted in getting so wasted that certain members of my social group called in sick to work, fell asleep on the job or in one particular case, someone was asked to go home early. In case the homonym escaped you, this post is about belts and showing off your waist. I'm not sure if it's the consumption of many a holiday treat or the fact that I have no core (according to my trainer), but my collection of expensive jeans has been shoved to the back of my closet and replaced with leggings, skirts and dresses. (Editor's note: I'm not actually blaming my current refusal to squeeze into tight jeans on any sort of weight gain, but rather on a sartorial shift in the universe.) Anyway, my new clothing choices have given me the chance to rediscover one of my favorite accessories: the belt. I've started quite the collection, and these are my top picks:

-Filippa K Thin Belt

-Ashley Watson Skinny D-ring Belt

-Any belt from Madewell

Sale!

Sale!

Deep Thoughts: Color

After enduring my rather abrupt wake-up call (what can I say? I can't handle snoring) a friend recently confessed that, upon waking, he initially mistook my room for a hospital. Although my style could be described as extreme minimalism, having it likened to an asylum isn't exactly a dream come true.

I've always loved the look of bare white walls, I find it an incredibly soothing contrast to life's daily stress. It's also extremely easy, a no-brainer, in terms of design. I approach my wardrobe with the same fervor, except in lieu of white, I stick with fiercely minimalist, always in style, black. Prying my bony little fingers from their vice grip on my ink J Brands and 15 variations of the same black tank, however painful it may be, is a necessary foray into the unknown. Especially after boring myself skimming previous posts, realizing I constantly write about this exact dilemma. After finally hanging girly pink pictures in my bedroom, perhaps it's time to follow suit with my wardrobe.

Here's how I'll be injecting a much needed dose of warmth to my closet:

• A bright alternative to my basic black tank.
• Strawberry Cordial can't be described as neutral, right?
• A lovely print with the added bonus of a bit of black.
• Sunny and cheerful will feel fresh on dark winter mornings.
  
• Certainly not for the timid, but I'm obsessed with the Louis Vuitton bunny ears in candy colored pink.

The Justification: What I'm currently loving

Kova&T Pepper Leggings

Justification #1: These leggings have stirrups, so they won't bunch up!

Justification #2: They're also available in purple, for those of you who appreciate color.

Friend or Foe Miles Davis tee

Justification #1: This tee is my number one obsession. Seriously-I bought if to give as a present (you're welcome, Rooms) and then I also had to buy one for myself.

Justification #2: It occurred to me while writing this that there are some especially lovely Facebook pictures of me from an impromptu night out. There's nothing like having a million pictures taken of you when it looks like you just crawled out of bed. But at least you sort of get to see how amazing this tee is!

Sale!

Said in Context

After my week long sabbatical, the words of the quintessential fashion phoenix, Diane von Fürstenberg, felt right for today.

"Life is a risk."
–Diane von Fürstenberg

Coming Soon...

Sale!

Sale!

The Justification:** Winter Jacket Advisory** (Since everyone seems to be making such a big deal over an epic foot of snow)

In case this happens to be the end of electricity and warmth as we know it, at least you can be sure to look good in these jackets for him and her.

Relwen Wool Combat Jacket

Justification #1: The name of the jacket says it all. You boys will be ready to combat the snow like a crazy coupon wielding shopper fights the crowd on Black Friday. Except you won't be finding this jacket at the mall!

Filippa K Sophia Peacoat

Justification #1: You ladies will look like a vision of grace in this peacoat, even if no one outside can see you because of the blinding whiteout.

Notes On: Winter Wedding Wear

My dear friend, Jessica, is tying the knot in a couple weeks. A wedding is always cause for much thought and overanalysis of what to wear, and the date of this particular fete is making my decision that much more difficult. Not only do I have to look extremely beautiful, happy and successful in the likely case of a run in with an old boyfriend or high school friend, but I must also cover more skin than I would like, thanks to the frigid temps. Surprisingly, I've come up with a few options that might actually cover all of the above!

Option 1:

-Publicka Black Crew Neck Dress

-Lace tights

-Black Booties from Melanie Dizon

-Giles&Brother Pola Bangles

-Daryl K (recycled) Fox Fur Vest for a jacket

Option 2:

-Charlotte Ronson One Shoulder Dress

-Black Filippa K Tights

-Black Patent Peep Toes from Rock&Republic

-Giles&Brother Chaton Pyramid Drop Earrings

-L.A.M.B. Cape for a jacket

Option 3:

-Modern Amusement Bardot Dress

-Grey Filippa K Tights

-Black heeled boots

-Filippa K Sophia Peacoat for a jacket

The Justification: Things that will make you feel warm...and no, this isn't a post on snuggling up with boys.

Aude Venus Andrew Turtleneck

Justification #1: This turtleneck is soft, versatile and the banding on the bottom gives it extra detail to stand out.

Trovata Rue Sweater Vest

Justification #1: This wool blend sweater vest is so cozy you'll want to sleep in it...trust me!

Justification #2: Plus, you can dress it up or down

The One Hundred: Part 4

Inspired by Nina Garcia's book, The One Hundred, we bring you a list of items every stylish woman should own. Each Friday in November, we'll list 25 must haves and tell you where to get them.

76. Blazer

77. Animal Print

78. Missoni Knit

79. Lingerie

80. Peacoat

81. Pajamas

82. Polo Shirt

83. Safari Jacket

84. Suit

85. Sarong

86. Yoga Gear

87. Vintage

88. Espadrilles

89. Vans

90. Black Opaque Tights

91. Wayfarers

92. Silk Scarf

93. Sun Hat

94. Hoop Earrings

95. Turquoise and Coral Jewelry

96. Cocktail Ring

97. Perfume

98. Umbrella

99. Jewelry Pouches

100. Quality Champagne

Notes On: Gratitude

I recently came across an old journal entry from Thanksgiving 2006, when I lived in New York. The entry was an attempt at pulling myself out of the cynical mood that I had become accustomed to after countless walks to work in the rain, overdrawing my bank account for taxi money and living on a random girl's couch for two months. I listed all the things that I was thankful for, and I realized how fortunate I was to live in the greatest city in the world. It's been three years since I wrote that entry, and although I can no longer include Shake Shack, Pixie Market and sample sales among my current roster of things to be thankful for, I still think that life is pretty flipping fantastic.

What Kristin is Thankful for in 2009:

My family and the Wild Homestead

My friends- both those I don't see very often and those who I bbm with 3429875 times a day

My Atticus crew for their inspiration, creativity and work ethic (even when they only get paid in pizza and alcohol)

My Aude Michelle Scarf for basically being my security blanket through the long Wisconsin winter

Bradbury's and Kickapoo Coffee for getting me through the day. Every day.

The fact that I have a career that allows me to live in Madison and travel to NYC on a regular basis

Current/Elliott, Acne and T by Alex Wang for designing my current go to staples and Temperley and Rag&Bone for giving me a reason to look forward to the normally dismal month of February

Deep Thoughts: Giving Thanks

The last time I gave a compliment, it got laughed off. Apparently, the downside to being a sarcastic ass most of the time is even when actually telling the truth, people don't believe me. It's easy to get caught up in the monotonous day-to-day and dwell in the negative, but when my genuine expression of niceness got scoffed at, I realized perhaps focusing on the positive couldn't hurt. With the impending holiday reminding everyone to give thanks, I found myself inspired and downright cheerful when thinking about all the good in my life. Mostly ridiculous, with a dash of serious, I've compiled a list of what I'm thankful for this year:

My family: both biological and the one I've assembled on my own. It's been a helluva year and I'm beyond lucky to find myself surrounded by creative, inspiring, amazing people.

Atticus (and it's owner, my darling Kiki) : my home away from home, even if I'm not allowed to lay on the couch when people come in to shop.

Blackberry Messenger: Drewser and I would perish without it.

Black leggings: I'd never leave the house if I had to wear actual pants.

Whiskey: even if it makes me habitually tardy and causes my boss to crack jokes about untreated alcoholism.

Alexander Wang, Vena Cava, Rodarte and Gary Graham: designers who still push boundaries, explore new territory and make me remember why I love fashion.

My standing Sunday afternoon dates: brunch, yardwork, pumpkin smashing, hopscotch, skateboarding injuries, terrible movies, the list could go on. Everything is better with my partner in crime.

The Silver Dollar and Le Tigre: no explanation needed.

The Justification: Blaze Orange Edition

ACNE Mocs

Justification #1: Even if you have to sit in the cold at four in the morning watching for deer, at least you can still know you look good with ACNE jeans under your hunting gear!

Relwen Double Flannel Workshirt

Justification #1: And you'll look even better wearing a Relwen flannel with your ACNE jeans!

Justification #2: Not to mention flannel would be my fabric of choice if I had any interest in sitting out in the cold woods! But I don't get up before 9AM, so it will never happen!

And for you ladies...

Charlotte Ronson Zebra Sequined Tunic

While the guys are busy out hunting, you might as well take advantage of the situation and shop!

Justification #1: This dress is shiny but not overdone, and you'll be sure to turn heads.

Plush Footless Fleece Lined Tights

Justification #1: These might possibly be the best tights you'll ever wear. And the people at Plush might possibly be the biggest geniuses ever for putting fleece in tights.

Justification #2: If you're not into tights, check out the fleece lined knee high socks.

Said in Context

"It's about style, not fashion. Fashions come and go, but style is forever."

– Yves Saint Laurent

The One Hundred: Part 3

Inspired by Nina Garcia's book, The One Hundred, we bring you a list of items every stylish woman should own. Each Friday in November, we'll list 25 must haves and tell you where to get them.

51. Cashmere Sweater

52. Cable Knit Sweater

53. Man's White Shirt

54. Caftan

55. Old Concert T-shirt

56. Plain White Tee

57. Cape

58. One Piece Swimsuit

59. Trench

60. Tuxedo Jacket

61. Wide Leg Trousers

62. Robe

63. Charm Bracelet

64. Signet Ring

65. Cuff

66. Stillettos

67. Mary Janes

68. Knee Boots

69. Spanx

70. Gloves

71. Investment Bag

72. L.L. Bean Tote

73. Nail Polish

74. Monogrammed Stationary

75. Mad Money (hide a $50 bill in your wallet just in case!)

Your Favorites: November [Designer Edition]

The scoop on Atticus designers.

In your own words...

Each month, we bring you pieces from interviews with our savviest customers in which they discuss their experience at Atticus and spill details about their current faves.

This month, we asked some of our favorite designers!

What Are You Wearing?

It's official. As I struggled to remember if I'd be wearing the same outfit to work two days in a row, I realized Wednesdays are not my most fashion forward. Although at least I'm comforted by the fact that I'm certain I look slightly better than the lady at the gas station this morning buying Chicken in a Biskits...with a check. Crisis averted! I've got on:

• Kain tee
• Grace Sun cardigan
• My usual SoLow leggings, Frye Pagie boots and grey scarf

What are you wearing? Better yet, what are you wearing to the Atticus Holiday Preview tomorrow night?

Editor's note: I swear sometimes I look okay! Please consult this picture of Kristin and me as proof.

Said in Context

"It's like a bottle of perfume. You smell it, you don't sniff it or drink it."

— Alber Elbaz, on the smell of success at Monday's CFDA awards.

The Justification: Thanksgiving Edition

What I'm thankful for:

-Friends and family

-The fact that I still have a year left of school to be as irresponsible as I want

-Blackberries

-McDonald's and Culver's (and Taco Bell...eww. I sound gross. But I love them all)

-Days that I get to wear my Hunter Wellies

-Edward Cullen

From Atticus, I'm thankful for:

The way Simon Miller jeans fit any guy

ACNE jeans that suck everything in

House of Harlow to brighten any look

Deep Thoughts: Yes We Can!

I sat cross-legged on a bench chugging water in London's East End and rudely asked the man to repeat himself.

"I said, you look just like a pixie," he said.

I brushed it off at the time, probably because like the ungrateful, barbaric American that I am, I spent my summer abroad at 17, not absorbing the rich cultural sights and experiences, but finding the nearest pub and staking out for 12 or so hours at a time. For some reason, although I can't even picture this man's face, his words came back to me this week. While I'm quite certain I didn't look like one then, I'm positive I'd never be mistaken for one now. Their impish, ethereal air is as far from my usual uniform as possible, but right now I'm finding florals, layering, down home and homespun irresistibly endearing. Fantasies of frolicking in prairies and living in an anthropologie catalog are calling my name.

Chalk it up to the change of seasons or the alarming fact that it's now suicide level dark at 4 pm, but after struggling for some time to find original and inspirational clothing, a swing in the complete opposite direction may lift my spirits. I can never completely abandon my influx of beloved black but I'm giddy with excitement over the delicate, feminine darlings I've spent far too long ignoring.

Here's what I'm cruising:

Copenhagen brand YDE
Anthropologie's November catalog
shopbop's 'walk in the woods' trends feature
Pretty tank
An Atticus favorite

Photos of YDE and Rebecca Taylor

The One Hundred: Part 2

Inspired by Nina Garcia's book, The One Hundred, we bring you a list of items every stylish woman should own. Each Friday in November, we'll list 25 must haves and tell you where to get them.

26. Zipper Hoodie

27. Wrap Dress

28. Motorcycle Jacket

29. Striped Sailor Shirt

30. Pucci

31. Pencil Skirt

32. Bikini

33. Slippers

34. Sandals

35. Wellington Boots

36. Minnetonka Moccasins

37. Frye Boots

38. Driving Shoes

39. Pearls

40. Statement Necklace

41. Watch

42. Bangles

43. Push Up Bra

44. Underwear

45. Fishnets

46.Gentlemen's Hat

47. Luggage

48. iPod

49. Red Lipstick

50. Valid Passport (You never know when a trip to Morocco will present itself. Right, B?!)

Atticus Journal: 11.13.09; Vol. 110

Steal a page from the Atticus Journal...

Your exclusive look at new arrivals, store events and industry news through the eyes of Atticus.

Shop now at atticusshop.com

Atticus

18 N Carroll St.

Madison, Wisconsin 53703

608.204.9001

atticusshop.com

Monday-Friday 11am-7pm

Saturday 10am-5pm

Sunday Closed

The Justification: Sick Day

Bradley Thermal Henley

Sister Wild infected me this morning with some sort of sinus meltdown. So here are my picks for when all you want to do is wear something cozy and blow your nose.

Justification #1: This ultra comfy thermal comes in three different colors.

Justification #2: So even though you may feel like someone punched you in the face, you still can color coordinate your outfit.

LNA Long Sleeve Zipper Back Top

Justification #1: For all you people who can't handle wearing bright colors like me-this shirt's a good way to ease into wearing something different without looking like a stop sign!

Justification #2: Plus, after going through a half of a box of kleenex, your shirt and nose will match.

Gonzo Flannel Shirt in Triomphe Dark Shadows

Justification #1: Boys...don't think I forgot about you! Even if you have to be out and about, at least you'll look good for the ladies while still being comfortable!

Said in Context

“I’m moving to Soho. I’m sick of everyone being like, ‘Oh, you’re Lower East Side—of course.’ Why of course? I’m going to prove them wrong. Besides, it was time for an upgrade.”

—Alexander Wang, via style.com

The One Hundred: Part I

Inspired by Nina Garcia's book, The One Hundred, we bring you a list of items every stylish woman should own. Each Friday in November, we'll list 25 must haves and tell you where to get them.

1. Evening Gown

2. A-line Dress

3. Little Black Dress

4. Little White Dress (ask Maureen on this one!)

5. Leather Pants

6. Denim Jacket

7. Boyfriend Cardigan

8. Camel Coat

9. Khakis

10. Fur

11. Jeans

12. Havaianas

13. Converse

14. Ankle Bootie

15. Ballet Flat

16. Brooch (I suggest digging through your grandmother's jewelry box for this one. Vintage brooches are the best!)

17. Diamond Studs

18. Cowboy Boots

19. Belts

20. Aviators

21. Clutch

22. Exotic Skin Bag

23. Hobo Bag

24. Cosmetics Bag

25. Blackberry (duh.)

Deep Thoughts: Beautiful Pain

Over the years I've inflicted my fair share of pain, both onto myself and others. After a particularily brutal weekend involving 4 inch heels (self-inflicted) and a drunkenly overzealous tete a tete (inflicted onto a poor unsuspecting other), I hobbled to work Monday morning contemplating the physical torture we endure for the sake of fashion.

Easy and comfortable are often synonymous with mundane and ugly. I'll take sore legs over a night of comfortable shoes any day and I'm not alone. One friend likens wearing her Balmain gladiators to being punched repeatedly in the lower back, but is quick to add, "still worth it."

Aside from starving, waxing, tweezing and other general masochistic bodily upkeep we enthusiastically endure, why do we love the things that make our lives hell? There's an expectation that the truly noteworthy pieces are the most uncomfortable in order to prove their elite status. Sacrificing the most basic needs of comfort for an unconditional love of fashion is inexplicably exciting and brings a raw sense of meaning to a mostly aspirational, untouchable industry. The things that make us cringe in pain, the too-tight denim, the half-size too small shoes, become badges of honor proudly displayed along side shredded feet and scarred knees.

The greater the pain, the greater the reward. And I wouldn't have it any other way.

Photo stolen from Love Magazine.

Notes On: Hats

The hat is a fickle garment. It can just as easily ruin an outfit as it can make one. It can define your mood, your personality or even your job. There are rules about hats at dinner or during the National Anthem. Hats can be iconic like Faye's beret in Bonnie&Clyde or Harrison's hat in Indiana Jones. Hats can even affect one's level of attractiveness. I once dated a boy whom I was only attracted to when he was wearing a backwards baseball cap. I can't think of any other accessory that affects the wearer (or the gawker) quite as much.

Other than a brief cowboy hat phase in the fourth grade, I have never considered myself to be a "hat person." But that hasn't stopped me from being fascinated by them. It's a mystery to me that something so simple can instantly cause a specific reaction or behavior. For instance, yesterday I put on a Temperley cable knit beret that was given to me years ago. I asked my sister if I looked stupid in it and her reply was, "No, you look totally Parisian!" I was beyond ecstatic. I immediately went out for a tiny cup of coffee and had to stop myself from purchasing a pack of Parliament Lights just so I could carry around cigs all day.

Whether you're a hat person or not, there's actually a pretty fantastic selection out there for Fall/Winter 2009. My picks are:

Nobis Madison Hat $50 available at Atticus Shop

Nobis Isabella Hat $135 (Atticus re-order expected soon!)

Nobis Lucifer Hat $39 available at Atticus Shop

Eugenia Kim Woomi Earflap cap $188 available at Shopbop

Canada Goose Aviator Hat $145 available at Context Clothing

Said in Context

I am a fashion person, and fashion is not only about clothes — it's about all kinds of change.

-the great Karl Lagerfeld via twitter

What Are You Wearing? OR Homeless Chic Take 2

“Is this on right?” I asked my morning companion as I put on my sweater.

“I don’t even know how it works so I have no idea.” Generally, a response like that is no big deal, but this guy knows his fashion so I knew I was in trouble. It only got worse when I got to the office. Before I even sat down, a coworker kindly asked, “So I don’t get it…what exactly is the point of your shirt?”

My predilection towards dressing like a hobo may be evolving into a full blown trend. It’s too easy, especially on those mornings when you’ve failed to make it home the night before. If I’m going to embrace disheveled, I might as well go all out. Today I’m wearing:

• a reworked VPL turniquette sweater (with the cowl neck cut off)
• a Kova&T burnout crew
• J Brands
• Frye Paige tall riding boots

What are you wearing?

The Justification: Hey Everyone, it's Eco Tuesday!

Loomstate Catch Some Tail Tee

Justification #1: Loomstate tees are made from organic cotton.

Justification #2: The name of the shirt speaks for itself.

Loomstate Moose Tee

Justification #1: With details such as side skewed stitching and water based ink, these tees are better for the environment and a step up from the average graphic tee.

Justification #2: These tees are so ridiculously soft, you'll want to wear them during the day and even sleep in the at night...trust me!

In the Bag

Have you ever seen a devastatingly fashionable girl, eyed up her bag and asked yourself, "I wonder what she's got in there?" Yeah, us too. Our voyeuristic sides delight in sneaking a peek at someone else's world.

Name: Sukanya

Location: St. Paul, MN

Occupation: Healthcare Outreach

Bag: Gryson (for Target)

In her bag: Lancome Lip gloss(es), nano, iPhone (love Apple), J.R. Watkins lavender hand & cuticle oil, emery boards, my Dad's camera, hand sanitizer, Prius keys, Coach keychain-a gift from my best friends, Coach wallet-a gift to myself, magazines, reusable bag and spearmint gum.

Guilty Pleasure: Cadbury Mini Eggs, Shamrock Shakes and anything pumpkin

Style Icon: Serena van der Woodsen

One piece of clothing you can't live without: my long black cardigan and jewelry (does jewelry count?)

What Are You Wearing?

It's Bekah's week for What Are You Wearing. However, she's currently sick and lying on her couch. Looks like someone forgot to mix Emergen-C with her vodka this weekend! Get well soon, B!

Today I'm wearing:

-Loeffler Randall Striped Denim Skirt

-Kova&T Pepper Leggings

-Frye Motorcycle Boots

-Bop Basics Raglan crew (which I've also worn to bed for the last 3 nights, is that gross?)

What are you wearing?