Giovanna inspired

Giovanna Battaglia, fashion stylist and contributing editor at W magazine, tops my list of style icons. I adore her ladylike-with-a-twist approach to dressing. Giovanna’s look above, a neutral base paired with great accessories, is my favorite way to dress.

Givenchy Python clutch;  Jil Sander Shift dress; Alexander Wang jacket; Valentino Rockstud pump; Givenchy Floral tote.

What to wear now

© of Greg Kessler for Fashionologie.com

It has been such a mild winter that I have not pulled out my puffer and I wore my fur sweatshirt only once to a lunch and I roasted. My wool jackets and fur gilet paired with a heavy sweater are all I’ve needed. Usually my transition staples, these items have been sufficient this non-winter.

So as we head into March chances are good we already have the perfect pieces for these 50 degree days. Booties continue to be the footwear du jour and leather pants are great right now. And Giovanna’s coat with the fab moto details below is a chic Fall carry-over.

© by Tommy Ton for Style.com

Ladylike earrings

Giovanna Battaglia © Scott Shuman

With resort and spring, I veer into more feminine territory and buy mostly dresses, especially those with classic, feminine shapes–Jackie O. type shifts, printed silks, etc. This year, I want pretty accessories to go with them, namely ladylike earrings.

No sweeping chandeliers or glittering rhinestones, but whimsical and understated earrings that remind me of 60s era clip-ons. I love how Giovanna, above, looks so elegant and chic, much like Jackie O., below.

Jackie O.

Of course, all my favorite ladylike earrings seem to come with very “uptown” prices, but one pair would be worth it.

I have a Chanel camellia ring in black onyx, but love the white earrings.

Chanel

I once saw these Van Cleef & Arpels Frivole floral earrings on someone and immediately trotted over to the boutique (alas, or rather, luckily, they don’t work on me).

Van Cleef & Arpels

Jewelry designer Dean Harris, whom Preston and I know and adore, just might have the perfect pair because they are affordable fancy, as in under $900. Available at Barneys.com

Dean Harris