Jaded

Growing up, I always wondered if my older Chinese cousins knew just how cool they were for sporting beautiful jade bracelets or gorgeous pendant necklaces. No, these cultural pieces haven't become the latest fashion accessory, but the jade color concept has most definitely caught on in Europe. As somewhat of a brand extension of the mint-green hue, Chanel has introduced a new shade of nail varnish for Fall called Jade. Already out of stock on Chanel's website, the color was unleashed on Chanel's Paris runway only a few weeks ago.

Chanel Le Vernis in Jade (407), $25 / £19

Jade at Chanel A/W 2009 Catwalk Collection

Garnering high-profile fans like Rachel Bilson and Alexa Chung, the color is already making its rounds in the big cities and as any successful trend, has been spreading like wildfire. Drew Barrymore, in attendance of the Toronto Film Festival, had her nails painted minty green to celebrate the promotion of Whip It, her first-ever credit as a director. In observing their looks, the stars have been bold enough to try out this new color concept while keeping it classy by playing down the rest of their outfits (typically a variation on the ever-popular LBD) and keeping makeup to a tasteful yet statement-making minimum.

Here's to you, fashion. Cheers.

Fancy shmancy

The year 2009 is carrying over a few key accessories from the previous 365 days and remixing them to create even bolder statements for the coming months. Everyone knows about the explosive comeback of the scarf and the headband, but not enough credit has been given to another classic outfit enhancer- tights. Tights seem to pop up anywhere and everywhere as the temperature continues to fall; jewel tones such as ruby red, sapphire blue and deep violet are familiar hues responsible for livening up otherwise monochromatic outfits.

Blake Lively, Taylor Momsen and Leighton Meester
stars of The CW's Gossip Girl

These colors are no doubt a lot of fun, but the geniuses at Chanel have decided to take it a step further and put an even bigger twist on tights by introducing the two-toned stocking. Though I covet the original Chanel style, similar, much less pricey pairs can be found at Urban Outfitters for a mere $14. Lovely.

Chanel Fall/Winter 2008