Eliot Payne, bow tie designer for Accoutre

Loves:
"I'm not entirely sure if it's an increasing trend or just that I've been noticing it more, but over the past year, I have been loving looks that are inspired by menswear, whether it is straight up or deconstructed into something more feminine. I've seen some great shoes out there. A woman in a tie or bow tie (and not saying this because I make them, I swear)? Sold."
"Bold, bright colors [and] patterns. I enjoy things that liven up what might otherwise be an ordinary outfit. Colored jeans, patterned tights, bright lips (fuchsia is my fave)."
"While this hasn't shown up much yet, I am excited that Pantone's color of 2012 is Tangerine Tango. I'm a sucker for brights, but oranges are my favorite."

Loathes:
"A seasonal trend that seems like it will never die: UGGs. Ugh."
"D.C.'s bag tax seems to have another unintended consequence: Some women use their reusable grocery bags to haul their lunch/gym clothes/whatever to work. They should probably meet up with the guys who wear backpacks with suits."
"Oh, and I know this was more of a spring/summer thing, and wasn't all that big, but I have to get it off my chest. That feathers-in-the-hair thing? Hate."
"Lord knows how many times people have talked about D.C.'s boring J.Crew/Ann Taylor wardrobe. To me, the problem isn't with buying clothing from traditional or conservative brands, but in sticking with the stock look. Men and women alike could benefit from having some fun with those pieces: mix and match, add in something bold, etc. Small changes can make a big difference."

UGG Australia Maylin Boot, $249.95, available at Nordstrom; H&M Blazer, $59.95, Blouse, $39.95, and Skirt, $39.95, available at H&M.


Photo: Courtesy of Eliot Payne