Weekly Reading Roundup: Labor Day Sales and More

Here are some of the pieces I'm coveting from all the Labor Day sales: the Ramona Italian Leather Dress from Club Monaco, the Colorblock Soft Blazer from Banana Republic, Enzo Angiolini's Samendra Cheetah Spot Calf Hair Platform Pump from Nordstrom and the Pierre Hardy Colorblock Leather Wedge Sandals from The Outnet.

Labor Day weekend is one of those bittersweet times of the year. I love having a long three-day weekend, but it also signals the unofficial end of summer. No more barbecues, pool parties and city festivals. The days will soon get cooler and shorter. But to ease that transition into fall, here are a slew of Labor Day sales as well as some interesting reading that will distract you.

Lookbook: Stripes on Stripes

Blouse: BCBG Max Azria; shorts: GAP; wedge sandals: Vince Camuto; purse: Rebecca Minkoff Mini M.A.C.; bracelets: Target, Nordstrom and vintage from Portobello Road Market in London; and rings: Designs ‘N Gold and H&M 

I can’t seem to say no to a good stripe. Stripes are such a classic addition to any wardrobe and easily add interest to any outfit. When I saw this blouse, I knew it would be going home with me. Its multidirectional stripes adds a graphic jolt to a simple silhouette. And the striped shorts can be worn with a plethora of tops since it should be treated as a neutral. But when pairing these two striped pieces together, you bring a modern, chic take to an otherwise classic and traditional print. Putting together stripes with stripes is an easy way to modernize your look. What are your favorite ways to wear stripes?

My Picks from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2014

My favorite sale of the year has arrived once again—the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Where else can you score upcoming fall fashion, accessories and beauty products for 30 percent to 40 percent off? Nordstrom credit card holders can gain early access to the sale from July 10-17. If you don’t have a Nordstrom’s card, you can shop the sale beginning July 18. Don’t wait if you see something you like—most items sell out rather quickly, like the Burberry Trench coat I wanted. Here are some of my favorite picks from the sale.

Current/Elliott “The Stilletto” Skinny Jeans  These medium wash skinny jeans with a 29-inch inseam is perfect for petite girls like myself.

Alice + Olivia Stripe Drape Front Wraparound Sweater This sophisticated yet cozy sweater can be worn open like a long waterfall cardigan or wrapped like a pullover.

See by Chloé Studded Leather Ballet Flat I tried these on at the store and they were so comfortable – like walking on air.

Rebecca Minkoff Leather Pouch A simple yet function piece that can serve as a clutch or makeup bag.

Laura Mercier Flawless Expressions Set  A neutral palette of eye shadows and blushes that comes with an eye shadow stick in Rose Gold, a full-size lip gloss in Gilded Rose and a full-size mascara. A set you can easily carry in your makeup bag or for travel.

Jo Malone Cologne Collection  This set features five fragrances—a great way to introduce those who are new to Jo Malone.

Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Tote  The classic tote gets an upgrade that makes it expandable—perfect for travel.

Mackage Malka Double Breasted Trench Coat  Mackage always makes classic coats with modern details like this one with a tulip hem.

Diane von Furstenberg Zarita Lace Sheath Dress I’m always looking for a cocktail dress with sleeves that doesn’t look frumpy. This fits the bill.

Joie Roxie Ankle Strap Sandal  Elegant, simple and timeless sandals that you can wear with ripped jeans or a cocktail dress.

Nadri Pavé Hinged Open Bracelet  A simple, delicate bracelet that makes a statement.

rag & bone Devon Suede Bootie The stacked heel makes this suede bootie comfortable and chic.

Frye Phillip Riding Boot  The weathered, burnished look of these boots make them essential for weekend wear.

Cole Haan Arlington Leather Boot  A polished flat boot versatile that you can walk miles in without sacrificing style.

3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Colorblock Leather Satchel  The colorblocking adds a modern edge to this refined bag.  A big plus: It comes with a detachable shoulder strap.

Rebecca Minkoff Quilted Mini Affair with Studs Crossbody Purse  An affordable edgy alternative to the classic Chanel flap bag.

Melinda Maria Carrie Pod Station Bangles A new set of bracelets with subtle sparkle to add to the arm party.

What are you eyeing at the Nordstrom Anniversary sale?