[dropcap custom_class=”normal”]A[/dropcap]long with the taxi print sweatshirt and graphic tees, this dress is one of the most literal representations of Elie Tahari’s New York City inspiration for his DesigNation line. It’s also one of the most charming pieces from the collection with a fit-and-flare silhouette and the NYC skyline printed along the hem. It reminded me so much of Kate Spade’s skirt from a few years back that I couldn’t help but play up the femininity with a pair of heels and a bow belt. I’m anxious to keep this dress in rotation when the temperatures finally fall and I can pair it with the collection’s neoprene and faux fur jacket (seen earlier this week) or a beautiful white wool coat like this one.

Dress: c/o Elie Tahari x DesigNation | Jacket: c/o Elie Tahari x DesigNation | Belt: Kate Spade | Shoes: Kate Spade | Bag: Coach (similar) | Rings: c/o Julie Vos | Bracelet: Hermes | Nails: Essie “After School Boy Blazer” | Lips: Stila “Fiore”

[dropcap custom_class=”normal”]W[/dropcap]ould you believe I’ve never been to New York? A trip to the city comes up each time we plan a vacation, but another destination always seems to capture my imagination by the time we’re ready to purchase plane tickets. (Truth be told, I’m a little nervous that once I visit, I’ll never want to head back to the Midwest again!)

Until we actually make plans to jet set to the city that never sleeps, I’m embracing the spirit of New York through Elie Tahari’s collaboration with DesigNation. If you’re not familiar with DesigNation, it’s a biannual collaboration from Kohl’s that brings a designer’s signature looks to an expanded audience with a fun twist: each collection is inspired by a different locale. (Next up: Milly in spring 2015 with a collection inspired by Capri, Italy.)

I teamed up with Kohl’s to share two looks incorporating pieces from the collection. I’m not one to run out and purchase a new head-to-toe ensemble, so I was pleased to discover Elie Tahari’s collection is filled with versatile items punctuated with subtle textures and luxe details. In short, the perfect way to update your wardrobe without sacrificing your signature look. The neoprene pieces are really the standouts of the collection and this jacket is by far my favorite item. The faux fur inset adds just the right amount of daytime glam. Check back on Wednesday to see this dress in action.

On an unrelated note, Julie Vos recently relaunched her website and I’m thrilled to style a few of my favorite pieces to celebrate the launch. I’ll talk about it more later this week, but if you’re antsy to expand your jewelry collection, use code bedknobsandbaubles for 20% off sitewide.

Jacket: c/o Elie Tahari x DesigNation | Dress: J.Crew (old; also love this one) | Clutch: DVF | Shoes: J.Crew | Necklace: c/o Julie Vos | Ring: c/o Julie Vos | Bracelet: Hermes | Sunglasses: c/o Rivet & Sway | Nails: Essie “After School Boy Blazer” | Lips: Stila “Fiore”