Preppy Sports

One of the most recognized symbols in American sportswear is a tiny embroidered pony logo. You all know that horsie belongs to a Polo Ralph Lauren design, which has become a classic American staple. Coming from a town and then a University that lives and breathes prep, I have owned my share of RL, and truly admire the brand and everything it embodies. So, it was very exciting to learn that one of my favorite designers would be designing the uniforms that the USA athletes will wear to the opening ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympics. The games, held in Vancouver, begin February 12 (only 9 days away!!).

The uniforms are chic, Patriotic, and slightly retro. The outfits consist of navy puffer jackets, while tapered pants, and Fair Isle knit hats, which, according to the nymag.com's the Cut blog, were inspired by the 1932 Lake Placid Games. Fair Isle knit was back in style for this winter season, so it's great to see the trend transforming onto the heads of our nation's finest athletes.

The Bejiing game USA uniform was more tailored and military-looking, but Lauren toned it down a bit, to give the red white and blue more of a relaxed look.

"This time, (the USOC) wanted something that's a lot more sporty, technical-oriented, a little more relaxed," [Polo's Senior Vice President of advertising, marketing and corporate communications David] Lauren says.

If you too feel like getting into the spirit, or the uniform, of this year's US Olympic team, you can! The outfits are available online (the snow-scene hat is only $75!). How amazing, this is why I love Ralph so much, it's accessible and wearable. Go USA! Can't wait to see you all looking so fashionable next Friday!

Check out to full U.S. Olympic Collection!

Loving: The Tuxedo Inspired Jacket!

Tux is synonymous for lux..and chic, and glam, and sophisticated, polished..I could go on. A tailored tuxedo always dazzles, and it doesn't only have to be a look for men! The classic blazer has gotten a sharp update this season, introducing: the tux-inspired blazer! These penguin suit jackets have been popping up all over runways and in store this year, and I can't express how much I approve of this trending look. A tux jacket can be the perfect add-on to pull together a sizzling evening look...especially for the holidays! Try it with a pair of sequin leggings, a chic tank, a hot pair of pumps and a piece of statement jewelery, and you have the perfect holiday outfit that will most-certainly make you stand out.

Some of the runway editions can be a tad pricey..like the wonderful piece from Ralph Lauren Blue Label, the Black Tuxedo Jacket, retailing at $780.00, or the 3.1 Phillip Lim version at $525. If you can afford the runway look, go for it, you'll cherish it forever! But, if you're like most who can't justify that purchase right now, fear not..I found a fabulous selection of tuxedo jackets on piperlime.gap.com and topshop.com (of course)! Some of my best picks include: the Grossgrain Collar Tux Jacket from TopShop $60, the Mirta Single Button Tuxedo Jacket $298 and Ella Moss's short-sleeved version- the Shareen Jacket $155 both from Piperlime.

So whatever your budget, head to your nearest computer, H&M store (Viktor & Rolf makes a version for $99.99), and get yourself a tuxedo jacket. The slightly longer cut and tailored fit makes a flattering silhouette for every body-type, allowing you to step out in your menswear with feminine confidence and classic style! Simply, j'adore.

I am not all over the Overall Trend...

In a recent article from Style.com, the jumpsuit was told to "watch out", predicting that overalls will be a trend to watch out for this coming Spring. My belief is that the overall is that one that needs to watch its back, because I will try to single-handedly kill this trend for good. Overalls only belong on cute little kiddies, stuffed animals, farmers, and perhaps women who are expecting. But on the runway??? You've got to be kidding me! I was shocked to see these all-in-one jean jumper trounce down the catwalk at Ralph Lauren this fall. Mr. Lauren not only gave us the overall for day, but also offered a glammed-up version for night. All I have to say is that if I have to see overalls walking the streets both day and night...I may go nuts enough to even end up trying a pair myself. I have to admit, I have been this put-off by a trend before (the colored tight...which I looveee now; the UGG boot..which isn't so fashionable, but I live in them now during the cold seasons; and who can forget the boyfriend blazer...a wardrobe classic that I couldn't justify on myself until this year..). Obviously, my fashion sense may not be as forward-thinking as some of these design geniuses. So, feel free to call me out when you see me in a few months actually wearing a pair of overalls...I'll have to give it to you, since I've been wrong wrong wrong before! I mean, Jean Paul Gaultier himself has given a nod to this trend, telling style.com that he's, "always loved overalls because they're a uniform...And being true to myself, I love making something different out of them...". But maybe that's just why I can't justify them, they are a uniform...a railroad worker's uniform. I don't know, we'll just have to see if I can warm up to them by spring, will you be able to?!