With the Labor Day holiday quickly coming to an end (just a few short hours left), we can officially look forward to fall.

This year in particular, the holiday weekend was perfect in every way. In addition to the excellent company we kept, the weather was out of this world — low temp mornings, clear blue skies, no humidity. Anyone with a pulse was, undoubtedly, catapulted into a frenzy for fall by the cooler weather.

As of today, those summer dresses should be stowed away until next spring. It's time to make room for fall! Even if the weather doesn't cooperate for a few more weeks, you can certainly dress fall in color.

Need a little inspiration? Start with a dark, neutral jersey dress that can be layered with a long tee underneath, if necessary. Skip the tights for now ... there will be plenty of time to wear them. If your climate calls for boots in September, go for it. However, if you have another month before boot season, try a multi-strap heel. Do a little mix-no-match with your jewelry by selecting edgy earrings, a chain link necklace, cuff bracelets and a colorful ring. Add a little flair by tying a pocket square scarf around your head or wrist. A structured handbag is a must for fall, and I love this double-faced wool dalmation print Akris bag.

Are you ready now? Let's jump into fall head first together!

Ahhh, summer. This is a bitter sweet good-bye. While I'll miss the late mornings filled with yoga, trips to the lake and beach, and spending precious time with my family and friends, it's time to prepare for fall.

As I look back at some of my favorite summer accessories, I must have been crushing on orange. The pop of color I chose most often to pair with my neutrals turned out to be a color that's non-existent in my personal color palette. But that's what accessories are for ... to experiment with styles and/or colors you can't commit to.

With the Labor Day holiday upon us, we are reminded to take advantage of the last days of summer. Labor Day signals the change in season — even if that change is only mental at the moment, until the heat dissipates. With that said, I celebrate my favorite summer accessories: Hermès scarves, Laura James rings, fun oversized watches, neutral sandals and heels, long chain necklaces, link chain bracelets and modern, technology-focused shades ... to name just a few!

Here's wishing you a fabulous holiday weekend! Enjoy your last summer moments.

Written by: Millissa Mathai, Editor in Chief of Haute Mimi International

I am in love with designer clothing, handbags and accessories. What I'm definitely not in love with are the huge price tags that accompany them. I am always looking for new ways to save on coveted designer digs. Sample sales are great but you don't really get the kind of steep discounts that they promise to have. That's why I am hooked on fashion-based live online auction sites. You can snag a Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Fendi, Valentino and more for literally ten bucks — sometimes more sometimes less. I really thought it was too good to be true but after trying it out I am seriously addicted to these fashion auction sites and wanted to share my favorites since there are so many out there. I personally like these three sites, since they only have a few auctions a day on well edited items, instead of thousands of auctions on unsubstantial items.

What are live online fashion auction sites and how do they work?
Live online fashion auctions can be described as,"a fusion of sites like eBay and Gilt where click happy online shoppers get the best in luxury goods at a fraction of the retail cost," says a representative from OohIlove.com. Along with handbags, the sites offers bid packs to use on the site as well as gift cards to major stores.

They allow you to buy bid packs consisting of 20-100 bids for around $20-$100.00 which you can use to place bids on designer items. Most of the sites give you free bids to start off with, like LuxeWin.com, which gives you 5 free bids when you sign up. There are approximately 3-18 auctions going on in one day depending on the site.

When a bid is placed, two things happen, depending on the site. First, the auction price increases anywhere from 1 cent to 2 cents, and secondly, the auction clock increases anywhere from 10 seconds to 30 seconds. The user who bids last before the time is up wins the bid and can purchase the item at the last bid price which is typically 90% - 99% less than the actual retail price of the item. Each of the sites featured offer a Product Guarantee and source direct from the designer brands or their distributors.

LuxeWin
LuxeWin is the hot new player in the online fashion auction game, so auctions are averaging over 98% off. The auction items are much more contemporary and feature hard-to-find designer bags, accessories and jewelry from high demand brands. I definitely like the aesthetic of LuxeWin and find that they offer very exclusive items like beautiful bags from Jimmy Choo, Moschino, Furla, Botkier and Rebecca Minkoff, jewelry from Rachel Leigh, D&G Dolce & Gabbana, Jules Smith and Andrew Hamilton Crawford and even Michele Deco Diamond watches. The site is similar in layout to the others but with larger product images and better product descriptions. They also have a great incentive for members who invite their friends. If you invite a friend to LuxeWin, and they buy a bid pack, you automatically receive 12 free bids. Everyone also gets 5 free bids when they join so that's always a plus. I suggest LuxeWin to the girl with exquisite taste who likes to stand out from the crowd and usually shops the hottest boutiques.

OohILove
OohIlove is probably the oldest of the auction sites and was started a year ago. The site is very beautiful and the items on auction are very desirable. OohIlove features auctions on Tiffany jewelry, Louboutin shoes and Louis Vuitton handbags, to name a few stand out items. I would suggest this auction site to women who love the obvious designer arm candy, as this site mostly features monogrammed items that you can't miss.

JoJoLie
Jojolie is another live online auction site that I recommend. Jojolie is very similar to LuxeWin.com and OohIlove.com as far as the site's layout goes. The items they have for auction are much less expensive than the other two auction sites. This site is great for girls who love mid-range brands like Coach and Dooney and Burke. It's also a very beautiful site.

I realize I have link chain necklaces on the brain at the moment. However, they are so versatile that it's impossible not to pass on great finds when you come across one.

Enter: the Element Necklace by Twisted Silver.

This is a seriously cool necklace. The natural brass metal with an ombré effect makes it a little old style, yet current.

Worn alone or layered with other necklaces, the Element Necklace will become a fast favorite in your wardrobe. In fact, ever since I got mine, I haven't taken it off ... literally.

I wear it differently from day to day. Just yesterday, I hooked it in choker position, turned it to the side and let the extra chain dangle down. I loved it. This is one of those necklaces that lends itself to numerous options. So play!

The team of testers loved August. Well, except for the heat! The products rocked, as we can attest here.

Jemma Kidd Make-up School: Hi-Shine Hydrating Glosstick SPF 15 in Hibiscus
First off, the packaging is absolutely beautiful! This is one lip gloss you will want to carry with you everywhere you go. It clicks to open and close, so you know it's secure. It looks like a lipstick but goes on smooth and shiny ... more like a lip balm. It contains light reflective particles so lips appear fuller. It hydrates nicely throughout the day. The color is more intense than I anticipated. You get deep color with a nice, satiny finish.

Mizani: True Texture For Natural Curls hair care line
This hair care line for women of color truly embodies the "Chemistry In Balance" which means, the product has the ability to moisturize and strengthen your hair in order to promote a healthy mane. Mizani products are much more than conditioners and shampoos but an in-home treatment system to ensure each use brings you closure to reaching your hair care goals. My hair is very thick, naturally curly and chemical-free. Therefore, I start with the Moisturizing Shampoo to gently cleanse my hair without stripping it of its natural moisture. The cleanser is low-lather and sulfate-free, which protects the hair follicles from becoming dry and causing breakage. The product leaves my hair feeling refreshed, soft and clean. I use the Mizani shampoo for deep cleansing once a week and supplement with the Cleansing Cream Conditioning Curl Wash between shampoos. The Curl Wash is gentle enough to use daily without causing dryness and actually enhances the natural shine and softness of my curls. It also prevents hair from tangling while providing extra conditioning to promote a healthy head of hair. The Curl Replenish Intense Moisturizing Mask infuses each strand of hair with shine, moisture and elasticity to keep my curly coils light, bouncy and soft. I applied the Curl Replenisher in the morning while styling my hair to give it a salon finished look. I also found it soothing to apply the cream directly to my scalp to prevent dryness. The cream is not heavy and should be used sparingly. The cream is rich enough that only a small amount daily will get the job done. Lastly, in order to define my curls I finish off with True Textures Perfect Curl Defining Cream Gel which is a dream come true. The product protected the natural curl pattern of my hair with a lightweight firmness without the stiffness like mousse and the build-up styling products tend to leave on your hair. My spiral curl pattern held up against the humidity and did not fail me, while providing a very nice natural supple finish (unusual to have both at the same time with naturally curly hair). I did not experience any skin irritation and loved the fragrance of the products (think whipped custard pudding). Mizani products tend to be a bit more pricey than the average shampoo and conditioner. However, it is worth the cost to maintain a healthy head of hair while looking fabulous.

Dior: Waterproof Crayon Eyeliner in Intense Brown
Finding a great eyeliner is important. One that will stay put all day. A deep brown eyeliner is a staple for me. And while I took a slight detour from my typical eyeliner, it was a pleasant surprise. I chose the waterproof to ensure no smudging on my upper eyelid. I love how soft the pencil is and how easy it is to apply. The sponge on the opposite end allows you to smooth out the line. I wish it stayed put a bit longer, but overall, a fantastic eyeliner!

Sunday Riley Modern Skincare: Juno Transformative Lipid Serum
While the scent reminds me more of an oil that I should be cooking with as opposed to applying to my face, there is absolutely no denying the power of this potent dry oil absolute. It claims to give skin an obsession-worthy glow. It definitely holds true to that. The ingredients in this serum are unbelievable. The instructions call for several pumps, but honestly, a half to a full pump covers my décolleté, neck and face perfectly. I recommend pressing it into your skin. It penetrates nicely to leave a velvety finish. This patent-pending blend of fast absorbing oils is extremely high in natural retinol, Vitamin C, Essential Amino Acids, Omega-3, 6, & 9, UV shields and natural anti-inflammatory agents. I not only use this every evening, but also a half of a pump in the morning. I am in love!!

JONATHAN: Green Rootine Dry Shampoo in dark
Not a shampoo in the traditional sense, this dry powder treatment comes packaged in a slim bottle with an attached brush applicator and is easy to apply along your roots. Just a little goes a long way, and the size means you can definitely carry this with you in your purse or gym bag. Or, stash it in a drawer at the office. The powder looked light in the bottle but disappeared in my dark brown hair (there's a lighter one for fair hair) and didn't have a strong scent (like many Jonathan products). It won't replace washing your hair the old fashioned way, but it will soak up a day (or two) of oil and extend the life of that expensive blow out. And with its vegan, all natural ingredients, you can't go wrong on those days you don't have time to wash/dry/style your hair. And who doesn't have mornings like that?

Peony Apparel: Flutter Sleeve Bohemian Silk Blouse
I love anything sheer and delicate. The pattern is soft and muted with lace on the neckline. The blouse is great paired with shorts, a fitted skirt or jeans. I love changing the color of my cami underneath ... ivory, black, navy, gold ... it provides a slightly different spin every time!

Frederic Fekkai: Salon Technician Color Care Shampoo and Conditioner
Not only does this shampoo and conditioner smell great, it truly protects while hydrating hair at the same time. Rarely do I find a shampoo that lathers well without stripping my hair of precious oils. This shampoo is fantastic! It cleans and moisturizes perfectly. The conditioner smooths, hydrates and protects from the sun's harmful UV rays. So it's made for color treated hair ... or not ... you'll love it either way.

Dr. Brandt: Pore Effect
Pore Effect is formulated with salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and botanicals to refine and tighten pores. I saw a difference in my pores in just a few weeks. It helps to unclog pores while controlling oil production and provides great hydration. It has a fresh smell with the tea tree oil, is a tad bit thick but goes on smooth. It’s very soothing and cool when it hits the skin. I think this would be a great moisturizer in the winter.

Spirulina: Hair Spray for strong hold
For a good hair spray to be a good hair spray in my book, it has to be flexible and hold for at least 4 hours. Spirulina is a blue green algae and said to be rich in protein, vitamins and minerals. It definitely held my hair, but did add some weight. The scent reminded me of a little of AquaNet.

The team of testers were not paid to review these products. However, most of the products listed above were supplied as samples for review purposes.

Custo Barcelona, bestill my heart. Your colorful faux furs are supreme!

Faux or not, this season is all about fur. One particular coat caught my attention ... big time!

This colorful, reversible faux fur by Custo Barcelona not only has an eclectic feel, it's affordable at $368. Whether you choose burgundy or hunter green, you'll get glam on one side and vintage on the other. Two fab coats in one! And guess what? It's machine washable! A delectable addition to your wardrobe.

Pick one up for yourself beginning August 31st at Custo Barcelona.

Every now and then, a nail lacquer comes along and makes you want to hold onto summer forever. This is definitely one of them.

While this gorgeous glittered-up beige polish is a year round pleaser, it especially makes me smile right about now. And not just because I helped name this special lacquer with Founding Creative Director, Nonie Creme, in remembrance of one of the most brilliant fashion designers. Alexander McQueen deserves a glamified homage, after all.

We can all appreciate a staple nail color in our wardrobe. This is one of those timeless shades that you will never tire of. Perfect, yet again, to honor the memory of Mr. McQueen.

Hail to you, too, butter LONDON. McQueen will, indeed, live on ... in our hearts and on our nails!

Have you seen the latest David Yurman advertisements with Kate Moss? I am head over heels for the choker link chain necklaces, or, as they're referred to, collar necklaces.

Simply stunning. So wearable.

You could wear this necklace for just about any occasion. It goes from casual to formal without hesitation. One second, you're wearing jeans and a tee and the next, a formal gown. It works beautifully.

Between this oval link necklace, the Cordelia necklace, and Kara Ross's snake chain knot necklace, I am so inspired to create fabulous looks for my clients.

As accessories continue down the path of 'more is more,' a collar necklace could easily be layered with other necklaces for a completely different look. However, I must admit, I like it just the way it is.

It's that time of year. Back to school. Woohoo! Are you as excited as I am? Routine, structure ... it's all good ... and so needed after a summer of fun and relaxation.

Depending on where you live, school may already be in session, starting this week or starting after Labor Day weekend. For those of you who are getting ready to meet the teacher, here's a simple formula to keep you balanced, comfortable and, of course, stylish!

Casual + Glam = Fun + Unexpected

Mixing white jeans with a black sequins tee provides a great vibe. It says, 'I've enjoyed my summer, and while I'm fondly preparing for fall, I'm embracing my spirited side.' It also says that you don't mind taking risks, even if they aren't huge ones. Whether you choose your neutral wedge or black chucks, either works, giving a slightly different spin on the look.

You won't want to carry your big handbag through the crowded hallways, so grab a wristlet, clutch or pochette. Add hoop earrings, a few hinged cuffs and a colorful, vintage ring and you're set.

Enjoy the excitement wrapped up in the day for your children meeting their new teacher, seeing their friends and reminiscing about the summer. Once school begins, it's off to the races!

I love shorts in the winter. However, it's been quite some time since I have taken on this look. Quite simply, I haven't had the right pair.

This year, I will not only have a fabulous pair of herringbone shorts, but maybe a leather pair, as well! Why not? I can hide my not-so-pretty legs in tights, so there's no reason not to embrace the trend.

With all of the options this fall — satin, velvet, sequins, houndstooth — you, too, can create a look that suits your personal style ... or, call just me!

How's this for inspiration?