what I'm keeping - Alexa Chung for Madewell

Ugly Cardigan - probably my favorite piece

The word on the street is that Madewell will be re-launching some of the topsellers from the Alexa Chung collection on November 11th. So if you missed out the first time, here's your opportunity.

Shrimp Coat - my 2nd favorite piece, not in my original order but picked up in-store. get several compliments on it every time I wear it.

Penny Dress -  a casual everyday dress which is hard to come by

Hamish Wrap Scarf - super soft, sure to be a go-to item in winter

Amelia tee - a new twist on the classic striped boatneck, I got it in the navy stripe

Cassie Crewneck Sweater - I ordered this is a medium because that's all that was available and ending up loving it as an oversize sweater. I think most of the sweaters ran small, because I sent back the Aimee Fisherman Knit in an XS when it looked like a cropped sweater on me.

Patrice Top in white - this is one of those that you have to see in person. I was very on the fence about it when I ordered it and it IS a specific piece that necessitates a specific outfit. That said, it is very cute.

Thora Cords in rust - these I also picked up in the store, as they were sold out online immediately. They are a great fit: high waist, fitted leg, ankle length. I got a size 27 so they would be a little loose for a more boyish look.

Alexa Chung for Madewell - my order

So after the Madewell site crashed Wednesday night, I thought I'd skip the latest Alexa Chung collaboration but then I reconsidered the following morning when I spied the "ugly" cardigan and the hamish tartan wrap. I might end up returning quite a bit of it but thought some items were too cute to pass up. I'm still considering the Carine dress but at $265, I'd rather try it on when I'm in Seattle next week.

Betty Tea Dress

Penny Dress

Cassie Crewneck Sweater

the "Ugly" cardigan - I love this one!

gold Patrice top - on the fence about this one

Amelia crewneck tee in navy

Grandma skirt in black

Hamish wrap - also loved this one

Carine dress

Bags that POP

I have suddenly seen a few celebs with bright colored bags but not in the usual hues instead opting for "mellow" pop colors like canary yellow and turquoise. Here Nicole Richie on her way from the gym on a cold LA day with a new yellow YSL.

And supposed style icon Alexa Chung with an absolutely perfect turquoise Burberry bag while at LFW and of course front row at the Burberry show.

I love how both women wore simple but chic in all black outfits to put the focus all on the bag. Really makes them pop!