Matte Is Back

New York Fashion Week is almost over so you know that means the media has worked itself into a tizzy trying to identify the hottest upcoming trends. Fashion definitely plays an important role in my life and identity, but I've always stuck to my instinct as opposed to following trends. Every so often however, an obscure look or item I love finds its way into the mega watt world of Fashion (with a capital F). My latest obsession, matte nail polish, was seen all over the runways this week. From DKNY to Malandrino, matte nails trotted down the runway in style. And there's obviously a reason why. Depending on the color you choose your nails can look like candy buttons, or a pimped out SUV - the looks are really endless! Make up artist Mike Potter's Knock Out Cosmetics is the leader of the pack with this trend, and KO's colors are ever so divine. So stretch out your paws and get ready to (not) shine!

The It Factor

Whether you love her or hate her, you have to admit that Rachel Zoe has impeccable style. I've only recently started watching her Bravo show, and I'm completely hooked. From her visit with legendary designer Diane Von Furstenberg, to her romps through New York Fashion Week, Zoe is surprisingly endearing. Never having much interest in her, and taking the tabloid generated image of her as truth, seems to have been a mistake. After watching the show I realize there's much more to the pin thin stylist than meets the eye - she has a big heart, and her styling really is bananas. Although I can't claim to embrace much of her bohemian aesthetic, (since anything that loose and free flowing will only make a girl with curves look bigger,) I've acquired a deep appreciation for Zoe, and her quirky approach to fashion. Any woman who surrenders herself wholeheartedly to her passion deserves our admiration.

Ruffling Feathers

1. Herringbone V Neck Blouse by Built By Wendy, $176; builtbywendy.com, 2. Marisa Plaid Dress, $44; delias.com, 3. Suede Ruffle Tote Bag by Felix Rey, $598; felixrey.com, 4. Ruffle Bootie by Pour La Victoire, $285; nordstrom.com, 5. Printed Ruffle Front Dress by Silence & Noise, $58; urbanoutfitters.com.

From Oscar de la Renta, to Bill Blass, ruffles have been a fashion mainstay for decades. Like most trends, we've seen ruffles fall in and out of favor, but if New York Fashion Week has taught us anything, it's that they're back with a vengeance. Fight off the mental image of Jerry Seinfeld's puffy pirate shirt, and embrace the flirty elegance of Valentino glamor. Both Diane Von Furstenburg and Marc Jacobs' latest collections flaunted feminine frills, but that's not to say that this type of embellishment can't be edgy. Like most of the trends I gravitate towards, ruffled pieces can be paired with more simplistic structured pieces to create an exciting blend of hard and soft. Rocking an angelic Built By Wendy V Neck Blouse with a pair of dark wash skinny jeans is perfect for work and play. Even Michelle Obama is in on the trend, looking fashionable and feminine as she does volunteer work across the country. Let's follow the First Lady's lead on this one, and who knows what good fortune will smile upon us.