1. Brahmin Brookline Bag ($495) // 2. Tsumori Chisato Scallop Dress ($398) // 3. Rachel Zoe Gladys Sandal ($235) // 4. Swiss Dot Tuxedo Shirt ($88)  // 5. Riley Cutout Silk Top ($278) // 6. Mila Skinny Cuff ($80)  and Nailhead Skinny Cuff ($70) // 7. AllSaints Miramar Skirt ($215) // 8. Edward Bess Baby Pink Lip Palette ($75)

One. I’ve been looking for a black bag that isn’t all black.  I think the snakeskin color-blocking really lightens it up, making it a bit more appropriate for summer.  I also like the size (it’s big enough to hold my iPad).

Looking for a black and white combo that costs a bit less? This larger snakeskin tote caught my eye.  I also think a black and white bag would have the same effect.  I love this bowler bag, but this $62 pleated leather tote is my absolute favorite.  It’s the perfect plane bag.

Two. This style of dress–the loose-fitting, cocoon style–is a hard sell for a lot of women.  But I love, love this print.  The light dip-dye effect at the bottom just makes it.

Three. These sandals stopped me in my tracks.  I’ve seen Rachel Zoe’s Gladys sandal before, but this material blew me away.  It’s classic, but it’s not every black sandal on the block, you know what I mean?

I also love the color combination on these Alexandre Birman sandals, and the shape is incredible.  In the under-$100 category, these black/white/snakeskin thong sandals are fab and these graphic printed, woven sandals are on trend.

Four. Summer is the season of stripes, sandals and Swiss dot.  This top from J.Crew looks awesome with shorts and can also be worn to the office.  Looking for something cheaper?  This LOFT top is half the price.  I also like this Henley top from Gap and this short sleeve blouse with tied sleeves.

Petite ladies should look at this Swiss dot blouse that comes in several fun colors.  For plus-size ladies, I found this black top with a peplum and this white t-shirt cut blouse.

Five. Cut out patterns and perforations seem to be everywhere this season.  I think this is the natural evolution of the lace trend that’s been filling stores for the last few years.

Since this is more suited to casual wear, I’d hit up a store like Forever 21 or H&M, as opposed to spending lots of money for this equipment blouse.  Forever 21 has this great plus-size top, and ASOS has this great tunic-length tank for under-$25.

Six. Skinny bracelets for layering are on my radar again (did they ever leave?).  The price on these two from Nordstrom isn’t too bad, but I think I might like something less expensive.  I like this ModCloth knot cuff in gold, and this Lucky Brand one in silver.

Seven. I bought this skirt and the matching top for my birthday.  It was a bit of a departure from my usual taste, but that’s the thing I liked about it.  (If you decide to buy this one, the top runs a little big due to the boxy cut.  And you will need an under layer.)

Topshop has a very similar skirt for $130.  And ASOS has a midi-length pencil skirt with a sheer panel at the bottom for $37.

Eight.  Edward Bess makeup is my new obsession.  It’s expensive, but I have never felt lip color this creamy and light.  It’s like it was made from a mixture of Cool-Whip and morning dew.  I bought his Ultra Slick lipstick in Rose Demure ($32), and I am reapplying like a crazy person.  And I don’t even like lipstick.

I think I may purchase this Baby Pink palette, but I’m waiting until I get an in-person look at it and his Back-to-Basics palette before I decide.  $75 is a lot to spend on lip color.