Spring is finally here and it’s time to shelf those bulky winter layers. The warm sun-drenched days ahead invite a wardrobe shift to lighter, brighter fabrics and skin-baring garments. An effortless seasonal suspect among the shift is shorts. For this New Yorker, shorts of the tailored and stylish variety is often chosen over ultra-casual denim options. For an upgraded spin on this warm weather essential, try these uncomplicated styling methods for your next sunny city outing. 

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CRISP WHITE SHIRT
A universally-flattering piece attainable at every price point, a crisp white shirt instantly adds a timeless and smart touch to the most casual ensembles. A power player in warm weather attire, a white buttoned shirt paired with stylish shorts makes for an upgraded seasonal uniform suitable for a range of settings. Finishing accents like statement gold jewelry or a poppy-colored silk scarf creates interesting dimensions for a more complete look. 

POLISHED POPS OF COLOR
New Yorkers love their sleek noir style and sport this full dramatic tone year-round. To liven up this dark shade for the warmer months, add a dash of color to tonal outfits in the form of accessories and a topper. While an single  neutral toned outfit serves as a canvas for color, haphazardly throwing random hues with this base look can appear sloppy and confusing. For a polished look which feels fresh and modern, throw a topper (blazer or sweater) over your shoulders and a minimal accessory (small handbag or shoes) in a single matching color. Sweet tones like pink and lavender add softness to this edgy tone while zesty citrus colors feel appropriate in the spring and summer seasons, all of which stand out beautifully against black and other neutrals. For a flattering shoe option, pair your shorts with a slingback sandal, which offers a lovely lengthening effect to bare legs (my favorite tip for petite frames!)

ROMANTIC ACCENTS 
Airy fabrics, fantastic florals and lush laced textures are all hallmarks of romantic dressing and are among my favorite pieces in my wardrobe. While often wearing these refined styles with a variety of skirts, styling with pleated shorts changed my perspective on wearing these types of bottoms to more fancy affairs. A sharply tailored pair of dark-toned shorts are elegantly elevated by the feminine features of romantic blouses. The result is a sophisticated ensemble with a contemporary take on delicate power dressing. 

COLOR BLOCK
While color block looks are reserved for more punchy, vibrant hues, the same formula can be applied to soft tones. Rather than opting for a cool break between a top and bottom, a chic jacket saturated in a single contrasting tone (tan) atop a solid colored dress (white) amplifies the chic factor. Bookend the look with richly colored dark accessories and finish with a bold red lip. 

HIGHLIGHT THE WARMTH
For this styling option, I like keeping the warm neutral the focal point of the look and have the contrasting soft white tones frame the piece. A sweater in a deliciously deep caramel anchors the full look and provides an simple foundation to build upon. Polished materials like tweed and an a-line skirt create a more elevated look but a more casual take can be achieved with a classic topper coat and tailored pants in the same pale white color.

REFRESHED DETAILS
Much like the reintroduction of this color pairing, silhouettes and design details of the past are once again becoming new. Pretty details like embroidery and puff sleeves can be worn beautifully if proportions and garment styles are taken into consideration. Opting for a piece with overly voluminous shapes and extra fabric can often drown the figure and appear frumpy. Selecting a more properly fitting blouse or sweater with subtle takes on this design offer a more current and effortless way to enjoy this vintage style. 

As the air becomes crisp and the turning leaves begin to fall from the trees, we start reaching for cool-weather style staples. While chunky knits, cozy scarves and luxurious layers are the standard items appearing in a traditional autumn/winter wardrobe, each year invites exciting seasonal trends for a style refresh. This season's trend market is making way for interesting wins and fails and I've sifted through the lot for some stellar options that are sure to stick around. Whether the trend calls for revitalized classics or a contemporary take on traditional materials, I've rounded up the top 3 cozy fall trends to shop now. 

SHEARLING ACCESSORIES
A beautiful fabric signature to the cold seasons, this cushy material is reimagined in accessories this autumn. Summer accessories like tote bags and easy slip-on sandals are dressed for fall in this luxe material. Additionally, footwear styles once seen as fads are made new again with shearling accents and unexpected tones. Offering a textured detail to layered looks, shearling accessories are a fitting trend which add cozy elements without the bulk. 

SWEATER DRESSES 
A style which is no stranger to an autumn/winter style lineup, sweater dresses are getting quite an upgrade this season. Now presented in luxe fabrics and tailored slim-fitting silhouettes, sweater dresses are no longer a fast-fashion casualty. Luxurious improvements to this comfortable, warm staple create elevated designs deserving of the spotlight. 

As we welcome the chillier half of the year, our wardrobes also shift to seasonally appropriate garments, accessories and footwear. With a closet filled with sartorial seasonal classics, no autumn/winter wardrobe is complete without a pair of boots. Whether they're tall and snug or of a fancier variety, boots are sometimes a tricky item to get right. Luckily, Sarah Flint has taken the guess work out of boot shopping and has created a range of perfectly designed options that cater to an array of needs. From heeled dressy styles to coveted knee-high models, I've compiled the ultimate guide to Sarah Flint's boot offerings to get you sorted for the cold months ahead. Kick up your heels and grab a hot beverage -- read on for the must-have boots you'll want to year all autumn long. 

TALL BOOTS

1, Alexandra 50 // Knee-high Heeled Boots -- Black/Navy
Ultra-chic, leg-hugging knee-high boots aren't always the easiest of styles to find. While many complain about incorrect fits, shapes and fabrications, the Alexandra Boot is the perfect remedy to this particular boot woe. Constructed in Italian stretch suede, this luxurious boot beautifully contours to the leg, providing the perfect slim fit. Additionally, it is designed with a hidden zipper for easy wear and features Flint's signature light-weight tortoise block heel. A beautiful addition to not only wear throughout the season ahead but for many years to come. 

2. Perfect Stretch Boot 30 // Knee-High Pull on Boot -- Black/Taupe
For a no-fuss easy solution which pairs beautifully with pants or a dress, the Perfect Stretch Boot offers an elegant touch to a wealth of ensembles. Expertly constructed in water-resistant high-quality suede and a lug-style outersole, this stylish pull-on  boot option is a wonderful shoe to sport in fall's unpredictable weather. Best of all, this chic style offers a timeless shape while thoughtful details like 6mm of extra padding and anatomical arch support maximize on comfort. 

BOOTIES

3. Perfect Zip Bootie 30 | 70 -- Espresso Crosta/Black Calf 
Offered in two heel heights, this versatile bootie option provides supportive elevation for extended wear. Unlike similar styles currently on the market, Flint's upgraded design is crafted with a busy woman in mind. A generously sized toe box allows for a comfortable fit while a padded insole with her unique arch support lends to pleasant, relaxed wear. While the fit alone makes these a shoe wardrobe must-have, luxurious details like the gold galvanized double zipper detailing and high-quality materials create an elegant lasting wear with minimal damage. 

4. Perfect Dress Bootie 60 | 90 -- Black Suede/Taupe
Perhaps my favorite bootie from Flint's versatile boot range, the Perfect Dress Bootie is an ideal shoe to sport at more formal fetes. In true Sarah Flint fashion, this beautifully made option presents a sleek fit with darling feminine details like a scalloped trim and French binding. Offered in two heel heights for a wider preference, the Dress Bootie elegantly provides height with respects to comfort through Flint's comfort hallmarks and pitch support by a hidden platform. A wonderful and wise option to consider before holiday season is in full swing. 

5.Ellie x Gravati // Chelsea Style Bootie -- Chestnut Vachetta/Black Vachetta/Camel Crosta
A tasteful option designed after Flint's first employee Ellie, this chic Chelsea-style bootie is a perfect model for a city-chic gal. An easy slip on bootie, this carefully designed shoe features refined elements like slim diagonal elastic paneling and artful stitching which not only highlight the expert craftsmanship but lends to the overall comfort and fit of the shoe. This year-round style beautifully wears in an array of weather conditions and is designed for lasting wear without the bulk and weight of traditional styles. 

Images: Product Images Courtesy of Sarah Flint 
Collage Edit: Own

Beautiful garments featuring poppy florals and lush foliage prints have always found a home in my wardrobe. When done well, these eye-catching prints really add a lovely element to a wealth of ensembles, especially when executed on romantic fabrics like airy silk chiffon. An elegant and romantic piece featuring these charming motifs was the exact kind of piece I had in mind when planning a look for a special late-summer celebration. 

The event called for a polished ensemble that was fit for an outdoor setting and knew it was the perfect time to pull out this chic tie-neck chiffon blouse which featured an elegant and bright take on these nature-inspired prints I adore. I kept this gem of a top the focal point of the look and paired it with dark pleated formal shorts and luxe accessories in the same dark contrasting hue. Funny enough, the picturesque restaurant we chose coincidentally complimented my look of the day. Combining that with a fine meal and the most-loved company made for perfect afternoon celebration 

A favorite among royals and prominent celebrities alike, Sarah Flint has truly carved a special space in the luxury footwear industry. A brand focusing on sleek, timeless styles with a spotlight on comfort through cutting-edge techniques, Sarah Flint helps women take the guess work out of chic footwear. From attractive flat styles to various elegant heeled options, finding a perfect solemate has never been easier with Sarah Flint. 

I'm thrilled to share that I'll be joining the wonderful Sarah Flint team as a Brand Ambassador. Over the next few months I'll have the opportunity to not only share the brand's exquisite footwear but will highlight the many brilliant ways this fast-growing, woman-founded brand is changing the scope of luxury footwear through innovation, a firm commitment to quality, and inclusivity. 

Upon learning more about about the brand, it was Sarah's unique approach to footwear use and unmatched technique in design which extraordinarily stood out to me. By opting for the excellence of Italian artisans and factories used by popular heritage brands, each shoe is guaranteed to feature high-quality materials and a meticulous attention to detail from base formulation to final execution. The most exciting feature of her shoes lies in the actual construction of each style, emphasized by a targeted focus on comfort for lasting wear. 

A generous toe box lends to a more comfortable fit while an enhanced foot bed is anatomically designed to support the natural arch of the foot. If that's not enough of a luxury, Sarah's vow to quality extends to details promoting long-term use and durability. These features include a steel rod stiletto which increases the longevity of the heel and a slim fortified rubber out sole which amplifies grip and stability - a thoughtful addition which usually costs a pretty penny at your favorite local cobbler. 

With an array of styles fit for a multitude of ensembles, Sarah Flint's vast collection seamlessly fits into any classic wardrobe. Whether it be the iconic Natalie Flat or elegant Perfect Pump, SF's sophisticated options make stylish dressing a breeze. 

Silk Neckerchief | Echo New York x Bloomingdale's  

Silk scarves will always be a favorite accessory to pull from my wardrobe. These boldly colored and pretty patterned squares instantly elevate ensembles and add a polished accent to any look. Whether it's a skinny style delicately wrapped around my wrist or a large statement piece topping off my favorite blazer, silk scarves are a wardrobe staple that remain timeless and fashionable. While I've shared smart ways to style a silk scarf in this post, the following story will highlight elegant ways to tie a neckerchief, a smaller silk scarf variety, around the neck.

Style 1 // Simple Fold Tie
1. Fold your neckerchief in half diagonally, be sure to have the pointed edge facing downwards and smooth over any ripples.
2. For the next fold, securely fold the long edge inwards half way. Be sure to keep the pointed edge free. 
3. Tightly pinch the ends of the freshly folded edge and bring the scarf to the front of the neck. Join both tails at the nape and tie once. 
4. Holding onto the knot, shift the scarf over to the right side of the neck, with the pointed edge sitting neatly at the left. Tie the knot once more for a strong tie, neatly adjusting the tapered tails over the shoulder.  

Style 2 // Double Fold Tie
1. Follow step one of the previous style. 
2. As in Style 1, the scarf will be folded inwards but this time it will be folded twice, a third of the way in each time. 
3. Now the scarf with look like a long, slim style with a pointed tip. Bring to the front of the neck, pull the two edges to the back and knot.
4. With the free tails, bring them neatly to the front and tie once more. Double knotting for a secure tie. 
5. Lastly, adjust the setting of the scarf. For this style you can keep the pointed edge centered  or placed to the side like I did below. 

Style 3 // Complete Tie  
1. Follow step 1 of Style 1
2. For this style, fold inwards from the pointed side. Pull the pointed tip up towards the long folded edge.
3. Continue folding two more times until you have a neat long, slim folded scarf. 
4. Tightly hold the ends and bring the scarf to the front of the neck, making sure it's centered. Tie once at back.
5. Bring the tails to the front, keep them aligned with the initial placement and tie twice at the center. Pull and accentuate the tails for a tidy look and make sure all the folds are properly tucked and present clean lines as seen below. 

SHOP THE POST 

I get it, it's pretty hard to look chic in winter. With a typical winter wardrobe consisting of bulky coats, heavy knits and layering up like a crepe cake, warmth often times trumps style. We may feel cozy with our coats buttoned and zipped to the tippy top but end up feeling more like fluffy marshmallows with legs. Thankfully, winter accessories, especially scarves, help jazz up our weighty outerwear with a punch of color and style. As one of my favorite year-round accessories, here are five street chic approaches to styling a scarf this winter.  

COLOR PLAY WITH SILK
Vibrant Tones
Perhaps my favorite type of scarf to wear, boldly colored silk scarves in eye-catching patterns offer an elegant and chic accent to a multitude of looks. Color is often reserved for warmer months and is shied away from during the winter season. Breaking the mold and opting for a poppy silk scarf not only helps break up a muted winter ensemble or outerwear, but provides an elegant element to bulkier styles. Silk provides warmth without weight and looks lovely wrapped classically around the neck. 

Tonal Print 
If you enjoy the fabric and feel of silk but are not yet ready to jump into full color, try reaching for a silk scarf with a print in complimentary tones to your wardrobe or coat. Slinging the scarf around your neck without traditionally wrapping around allows the colors and print to peek through from under the coat and offers a chic accent without creating too much of a competing contrast. I like to diagonally fold in half with the pointed triangle falling towards back and the tapered tails fall in the front which creates a more elongated look. 

BELTING CLASSICS  
Classic Wool Styles 
Perhaps the most common style in our winter wardrobes, rectangular wool scarves are a standard warm accessory that doesn't require much effort. Elevating this seasonal classic with a belt gives a more polished appearance. Whether your belting your favorite wool scarf over a knit dress or coat, this style draws the eye to the waist and creates a flattering shape and dimension to your overall look. Opting for a belt with a fancy buckle in a sturdy metal (brass/silver) further upgrades this simple styling tip. 

Faux Fur Accents
While fur garments and accessories look and feel luxurious, many brands are designing beautiful faux alternatives which are both ethical and modestly priced. A great way to dip your toes in this faux trend is by trying a stole or scarf with your choice of outerwear. Due to their voluminous quality and stiffer design, tucking a faux fur scarf under the tie sash of your coat or favorite belt helps keep this chic accessory in place while giving a slimming look.  

FRESH TAKE 
The extravagant quality of cashmere makes it the reigning champion of cold weather garments and stylish extras. A beautifully soft and lasting fabric, cashmere shawls and scarves make excellent wardrobe staples. These versatile pieces can be effortlessly worn but experimenting with fresh wrapping and tying techniques can offer a new perspective to this classic style. Whether it be a half or full large bow design, tying your cashmere favorite in an eye-catching fashion can offer a whimsical feature to your winter look without sacrificing warmth.