We were thrilled to work with stylist Benjamin Sturgill on our Spring brand campaign.  Benjamin is a regular contributor for Self Service, i-D and 10Men magazines as well as a consultant with Chloe Sevigny for Opening Ceremony.  Below he describes his vision for the shoot.

What inspired the look of the shoot?

We wanted to present the collection in an editorial manner, really show the attitude and overall feeling rather than straightforward looks.

In looking at the collection with Jessie, we were feeling an Australian outback vibe - country but very cool.  The fabrics and prints added an ethnic, tribal feel.  We brought in vintage jewelry, silver earrings and bracelets worn high on the arm to push the idea farther.

There's also an element of 90's street cred that comes through in the lace-up and hardware details.  We had the idea to use vintage corsets worn both over and under the clothing and incorporate swim pieces into the outfits - innerwear as outerwear.

How would you describe the collection and how does it fit into trends you are seeing for Spring?

I love the femininity of the collection, the pieces are tough but soft.  The ethnic, 90's and hardware trends will be big for Spring.  This collection incorporates these elements in an effortless way.  LR is classic cool without being overly trendy, confident without trying.

My favorite thing about Loeffler Randall - cool shoes that you can actually walk in, a statement shoe that doesn't overpower the outfit.

Real Simple's December issue features some beautiful shots of the Lula side zip platform and Keira snap platform, both in natural snake embossed patent leather.  Click here to shop these shoes and see more from our Exotic Trends.

Here's a repost of some great styling tips from Jessie featured on Glamour.com.  You can check out the full post
here and then shop the featured items here.

We interview Julia, LR financial analyst.

How long have you worked for LR?

Almost a year.

Describe your job:

As LR's financial analyst, I work on all sorts of strategy related projects and look for ways to help our company continue its impressive growth in the coming seasons.

What are you wearing?

LR black oversized blazer, Uniqlo tee, denim from Beacon's Closet and LR black Wendy knit slouch booties.

Describe your style:

While I don't take it too literally, I always look to the Olsens' style to see what kind of eclectic look they're experimenting with next.  I really love how they each mix high and low, and their fearlessness towards their own personal style.

What is your take on Fall '09 trends?

I'm always looking for classic, season-less pieces, but for Fall I'm really into over the knee boots (my Riley boots basically never come off!), ripped denim, Native American-inspired prints and boyfriend blazers.

What is the best part about working at LR?

I've enjoyed getting to see so much creativity every day - particularly watching an item go from sketch to sample to store is really exciting.

What are your current favorite NY spots?

The Jane for a nice night out, otherwise the Levee in Williamsburg for unlimited cheeseballs and a high stakes game of Jenga.

How do you spend your spare time?

I've been taking video of my friends doing funny things so I can eventually make something for all of us to laugh at in a few years.

Oversized Blazer Black washed double-faced silk

Wendy knit slouch bootie Black leather with ribbed merino

As the days get cooler and the nights get longer, a small pop of color is what keeps us going. We love the way a little color-blocking can rev up a monochromatic look. Suede Yvette platforms and Francesca over-the-knee boots in jewel color tones are eye-catching and chic. Our knit combo coat in charcoal Italian wool cashmere with contrasting black knit sleeves is subtle, yet special. And we love the layered skirt in cream blocked with a bold black waistband.....the perfect item dressed up with a lurex top or better yet, dressed down with a comfy tee. Click here to see more.

Knit combo coat Charcoal Italian cashmere wool with merino knit sleeves

Layered skirt Cream silk crepe

We interview LR employee, Brooke Siriani, RTW pre-production manager:

How long have you worked for LR? 

2 years (plus 6 months as an intern back in the day)

What are you wearing?

Black J.Crew cashmere dress, Club Monaco striped turtleneck, J.Crew denim jacket, Vintage leather belt, grey ankle sock, and of course, my favorite Ramona snap pumps.

Describe your look:

I like to pick a few pieces each season and incorporate them into most of my outfits.  For Fall, I am obsessed with anything striped, my denim jacket, and my vintage equestrian belt.

What is your take on Fall '09 trends?

Fall is the best time of the year - the weather is so crisp.  I love wearing tights and chunky socks with my Marti boots.

What is the best part about working at LR?

Working with such stylish people - I'm always inspired by what the girls (and guys) show up with.  Its great to see trends emerge within the company.  Everyone wears their LR differently!

Favorite Fall NYC spot:

Westville, my favorite restaurant in the city, serves about 20 fresh vegetable sides each night and has one of the best burgers around.  Perfect Fall comfort food.  I eat there at least twice a week!

What have you been making off-the-clock?

I've been buying up a bunch of vintage rhinestone necklaces (eBay and the Brooklyn Flea are great sources) with the intent of reconstructing them and making my own strands of jewels.

Ramona snap pump Black snake embossed leather

Marti flat buckle boot Black vachetta leather