Most of us know fellow BG, Padma Lakshmi as the host of Bravo’s culinary contest show, Top Chef, but she is actually a well-respected food aficionado. In fact, she has a new cookbook entitled, “Tangy Tart, Hot and Sweet: A World of Recipes for Everyday.” As I’ve written before, I’ve got quite a passion for collecting cookbooks and with a tasty title like that; I had to pick it up. Besides, who doesn’t like tangy, tart, hot and sweet foods?

This vibrant cookbook is filled with tantalizing recipes including everything from South Asian salads to Rice Krispie-battered fried chicken. Because Padma is Indian, she added a few recipes that reflect and celebrate her heritage as well. Writing her recipes in a style similar to short essays gives the book a friendly feel, while the personal photos add flair. Not only is Padma a true foodie, she also has a killer sense of style that rivals some of the hottest fashionistas in the country. Now if only we could get those super skinny models to pick up this cookbook and check out Padma’s style, then maybe they would see that one can actually eat and enjoy food and still be fashionable!

With the air getting more brisk and cool, it’s time to find that perfect coat! Being from Chicago and now living in NYC, I know all about blistering cold weather. That’s why I’m always on the prowl for finding a coat that has the perfect mix of both warmth and style. Over the years, I’ve bought many coats that were too fashionably fabulous to pass up, but too thin to really keep me warm; or a super warm and comfy coat that didn’t exude an ounce of chicness making me look like an unattractive Eskimo. Remember, during the fall and winter months, your coat is the first thing that people see and it should look as pulled together as your clothes underneath.

That’s why this year I vow to purchase a coat that I can walk down the streets of NYC and feel warm without compromising sophistication or style. Seriously, how cute can you really be if you’re shivering like a person suffering from hypothermia? You can’t; so save time and money by purchasing a coat that can cover both bases. We BGs love fashion and hate being cold! So, check out some of these chic coats that will keep you warm and stylish.

Dereon Faux Fur Hooded Belted Jacket for $149 available at www.dereon.com

Dereon Wool Melton 3/4 Button Front $199.00 available at www.dereon.com

The North Face ‘Metropolis’ Parka for $279 available at www.nordstrom.com

Soia & Kyo Saucer Button Walking Coat for $350 available at www.nordstrom.com

Nine West Belted Coat With Detachable Fur Hood for $150 available at www.macys.com

Women’s Frost Free Belted Anoraks for $78 available www.oldnavy.com

Like most BGs, I’m a handbag fanatic! Although I can’t afford to splurge on some of the designer brands like Fendi, Alberta Ferretti or Balenciaga, I still find classic styles that complement my wardrobe as well as my bank account. I know I told you about the “it” colors of the season last month – metallics, but the style of the moment is the quilted pattern. Designers are now mimicking the classic Chanel quilted look with their handbags. From a small and shady back room on Canal Street to high-end boutiques in Italy, the quilted bags are all the rage. I’ve seen this refined and chic style in a variety of colors and shapes. I haven’t purchased one just yet, but when I do, it’s going to be hot!

Check out some of my favorites:

Marc Jacobs Quilted Alyona: $1,375.00 available at www.eluxury.com

Helen Welsh Quilt Embossed Envelope Clutch: $198.00 available at www.nordstrom.com

Francesco Biasia “Diva Dream Six” Nylon Satchel: $625.00 available at www.nordstrom.com

Brahmin “Roxanne – Essex” Quilted Shoulder Bag: $250 available at www.nordstrom.com

I don’t like this one as much as the others, but it’s the most affordable! Nine West Quilted Satchel: $59.00 available at www.ninewest.com

Even though I have yet to experience the wonderful world of pregnancy, I hope to one day join the motherhood team. Oftentimes I find myself daydreaming about wearing cute and flowing dresses that perfectly drape my baby bump while exuding a radiant glow.

Gone are the days of frumpy and undesirable maternity wear. Thanks to the fashion gods, it’s the absolute best time to be pregnant! No longer do pregnant women have to sacrifice their sense of style for 9 months. Expectant mothers can now maintain their chic-ness by donning adorable baby doll and empire waist dresses and tunics. I just hope theses fashionable trends are still in style when I finally give in to my husband’s constant plead and take the preggers plunge.

This entry is dedicated to my beautiful cousin who’s expecting her first baby in the spring.

 

My Top Fall Fashion Must-Haves

Fall is definitely my second favorite season, with summer being my first choice. Walking down the street and having the cool breeze hit my perfectly moisturized skin while admiring the brightly-colored leaves change shades just puts a pep in my step and a smile to my face. I must admit, Mother Nature isn’t the only reason why I love fall; it’s fashion! To me, the clothes suitable for fall weather are the absolute most fashionable of all the other seasons. You can throw on a cute cropped coat and ankle boots and look super polished and chic. You can also dress up some of your much loved summer items by layering and adding a pair of tights to the mix to make it fall-friendly.

Check out my picks for the must-haves of the season!

Skinny-jeans aren’t out just yet, but why not change it up a bit and rock some super wide-legged jeans? The ones like our fellow brown girl Eva Mendes are wearing are incredibly flattering and forgiving.

Ok, I’m totally obsessed with cropped coats, jackets, etc. If I see a cute coat or jacket, I must buy it. Plus, in the fall your coat is the first thing that people see, so it’s okay to splurge on one great-looking coat for the season. This Soia & Kyo flare and plaid coat is to do for!

Available at Nordstrom’s: $325

www.nordstroms.com

Every BG needs to own several pairs of tights. They can immediately update summer baby doll dresses and minis to look weather-appropriate. Whether you like ribbed, opaque or designs, you’re sure to find the right kind of tights for you!

Available at department stores nationwide.

Since most fall fashions are on the dark side, pairing a fun and punchy-colored scarf in a yellow or baby blue hue adds panache to your ensemble. Look at how it instantly adds flair to the timeless beauty, Iman’s outfit. I have one that reminds me of sunshine and makes me happy; plus, I get tons of compliments whenever I wear it. The bonus is that I only paid $10 for it.

Ask any BG or fashionista what’s the color of the it bags this season and she’ll tell you, “METALLIC!” Gold and silver bags are all the rage for fall. It doesn’t matter if you’re carrying a clutch, tote, satchel or hobo, the metallic will definitely dazzle. This one is the Francesco Biasa “Sharla” Convertible Tote and it is fabulous!

Available at Nordstrom’s: $490.00

www.nordstroms.com

What girl doesn’t love shoes and boots? You can’t be a BGG and not have an intense fervor for footwear! Ankle boots are the style of boots to get right now. I’ve never particularly liked this style before, but for some reason I am now a fan.

Available at Nine West: $79

www.ninewest.com