Dear Rachel,The new school year is here and I really want to expand my wardrobe for the occasion. What are some great items that I can invest in to help me head back to class in style? - Megan, via Submit A Question

Congrats on the new school year! No matter how old you are—you could be a freshman in high school or entering your junior year in college—there is one uniting factor for every fashion-inclined student across the globe: back to school shopping. As one of my favorite past times growing up—obvi—it is my honor to steer you in the right direction on this mission…

Since education is extremely important, it should be treated and celebrated as such with a well-defined wardrobe. An appropriate starting point is to find a stylish and sturdy carryall for your text books and notebooks—I love Topshop’s Leopard Bag, but a sophisticated backpack à la Fossil’s Vintage Resurfaced option is cute too! Oh, and don’t forget an eye-catching laptop sleeve.

Next, invest in versatile pieces that you can wear with a variety of outfits like Sanctuary’s Military Schoolboy Blazer (a blazer is key in any studious ensemble), Ash’s Parody Booties and Urban Outfitters’ Thigh-Hi Socks. Finally, finish off the look with a few thoughtfully-chosen accessories and an oversized watch…and don’t be late for class! xoRZ

Dear Rachel, I am a huge fan of your show and have never missed an episode! The fashion is amazing, but I would even tune in just for the behind-the-scenes look at your home. Everything about it—the lamps, bedding and furniture—is bananas! How can I achieve a similar aesthetic on a 'Parallel Universe' budget? - Sarah, via Submit A Question

Great question! In the same way that I approach creating a red carpet look, I have devoted my full heart and mind into styling my home…every last detail counts. The modern yet cozy environment (with a touch of boho) that I have created is attainable on every budget.

For a quick update, I recommend first improving your interior space with home accessories. Aim for sleek and bright pieces such as Pablo’s Yellow Lamp, Jonathan Adler’s Sven Vase— fresh flowers are a must—and Kim Seybert’s Picnic Serving Tray to achieve a stylish setting.

Then, to keep things from feeling too structured, incorporate some relaxed items into the mix— I personally love the texture that a faux fur throw brings to a room. Add some additional color by adorning your space with a patterned pillow or two—I LOVE Fabricadabra’s Ikat Pillow Covers—and of course, a cool coffee table book, like The Hermès Scarf.

Once all of your accessorizing is done, you can focus on the larger decor items like furniture…but we’ll get to that at a later date. In the meantime, open up the windows to let the light in and enjoy your decor makeover! After all, there is no place like home. xoRZ

Hi Rachel, I am not able to get away on a summer trip this year, but luckily I do have some time off...any ideas on how to make this time just as relaxing as a vacay? Thank you! - Haley, via Submit A Question

Haley,

Considering the amount of time I spend jet-setting out of town, there is nothing I enjoy more than a few uninterrupted days at home…what I like to refer to as a staycation. If done right, it can be every bit as rejuvenating as leaving town (without the stress of traveling)!

First and foremost, I recommend disconnecting—digitally speaking—from the world, by turning off your cell phone and computer in order to get to a completely peaceful and uninterrupted mindset. Then, trade out your street clothes and heels for a superbly cozy robe and slippers—I love Oscar de la Renta’s Cotton Jersey Robe and Ugg’s Shearling Slippers—light some calming candles, and bundle up in the most inviting spot in your home with a comfy throw.

Give yourself permission to completely unwind—order takeout, give yourself an at-home facial and take a long bubble bath! Also, keep a stack of books or magazines by your side and by all means, indulge in a romantic comedy marathon…after all, a Hugh Grant escape is just as good as any. ;) xoRZ

Hi RZ, My lack of cute, workout-friendly clothing options is making it hard for me to stick to my get-fit routine. Any suggestions for some fashionable workout gear? - Amber, via Submit A Question

Amber,

My main mission as a stylist is to encourage my clients—and everyone—to look and feel their best. Working out is a great way to help you get there, so
let’s talk about getting you into some stylish fitness clothes!

Whether you are most suited on the treadmill, a yoga mat—my fave—or prefer a combo of both, you can never go wrong with some Nike gear. Their Pro Collection, available in both muted and bright colors, is seriously O.O.C! I love the functional material and fun, colorful look of the line.

For those of you with a cardio craze for cycling, jogging or hiking, a sturdy pair of trainers—as the English would say—are imperative. I am loving Nike’s classic black and white style with a modern update…iPod + enabled!

The final steps to any fashionably forward workout look comes via a great gym bag, water bottle—go for the eco-chic, Watergeeks—and some functionally cool earphones. Make a checklist of these items and you will have all the motivation you need to get your move on. And girl…You. Better. Work. xoRZ

Hi Rachel, With summer still lingering and fall just around the corner, I am in desperate need of some new, of-the-moment nail polish colors for my late summer manicures and pedicures. What are your recent faves? Please help! - Lindsay, via Submit A Question

Lindsay-

I am happy to report that all summer long, I have kept my fingers and toes colorful with Sheswai’s So Cute. It is a cool coral lacquer that is soft and summery…and it seems to accent every outfit beautifully! My gameplan is to showcase this August-appropriate, bright hue for a few more weeks and then transition into fall with a classic neutral. How good is butter LONDON’s newest nude, All Hail McQueen? As a tribute to the design genius, it is an alluring and versatile shade that should be flaunted often.

If you find yourself too excited for fall shades to wait, start incorporating warmer tones into your nail salon routine now. Chanel’s latest polish, Paradoxal (a flawless grey violet) and Zoya’s Carrie Ann (a sparkling scarlet red) are both sure to be the next it-shades…so get yours ASAP!

Ginger + Liz’s Got My Groove Back—a metallic gold tone—is OOC…rock glam at its finest. I like to paint this on before a big night out. I mean, it is just too good not to. Plus, bonus points to this eco-friendly beauty brand for creating polishes that are all organic, vegan-friendly and toxin-free. Last, but certainly not least, I cannot forget about Deborah Lippmann’s fabulous collection. Her most recent addition, Bring On The Bling—yes, it contains real diamond powder!— will mah-jorly enhance your summer glow…and work as an unexpectedly chic addition to your fall attire! xoRZ