Urban Outfitters
Canvas Masonry Bag
$39, originally $58
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Canvas Cool
I love a great canvas bag for the summer. This bag from Urban Outfitters not only is on sale, but the black and tan combo will go with almost any outfit. The durability of canvas makes it great for travel too. Plus, until Midnight EST tomorrow, you can get an extra 20 % off. Now that really is a steal! Don't miss out on this one!!
Urban Outfitters
Canvas Masonry Bag
$39, originally $58
Urban Outfitters
Canvas Masonry Bag
$39, originally $58
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Cheap v. Expensive Clothes
What differentiates cheap clothes from expensive clothes? The fabrics and the fit. Expensive clothes are made of premium fabrics and the fit is more tailored.
When I shop for clothes at stores like Forever 21 or Target I make sure to pay attention to the fabric. Do not buy cotton tops where the cotton feels stiff and itchy. Buy dresses that are lined. I try to avoid polyester and acrylic. Stay clear of cheap looking beading or clothes with threads hanging off.
When it comes to the fit, just get things tailored. You could find a cute little black dress on sale and then get it tailored so it fits your body like a glove. It will instantly look more expensive and you will look more stylish.
When I shop for clothes at stores like Forever 21 or Target I make sure to pay attention to the fabric. Do not buy cotton tops where the cotton feels stiff and itchy. Buy dresses that are lined. I try to avoid polyester and acrylic. Stay clear of cheap looking beading or clothes with threads hanging off.
When it comes to the fit, just get things tailored. You could find a cute little black dress on sale and then get it tailored so it fits your body like a glove. It will instantly look more expensive and you will look more stylish.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Building A Better Wardrobe, Part II
Here are some more things I think that are worth splurging on, and remember these are items you will wear over and over again. Some of these items you can pass down in your family because they will never go out of style (like the handbags). Consider them investments if you will.
The Work Shoe
You wear these shoes over 8 hours a day so they better be comfortable! I know, we don't want something hideous and orthopedic looking to wear to work, but if you shop around, you can find a shoe that's comfortable and stylish at the same time. If it's on sale, then brownie points for you, but if not then go ahead and splurge. Trust me, these will be well worth it! Working is tiring enough without coming home to achy, blistered feet.
Once again, make sure these are not too trendy looking. A neutral color is best. I spend far less money of the flashy shoes, that cost less and make my feel hurt, because I'm only wearing them for a few hours when I go out at night.
The Bra
I'm not saying you have to spend $100 on a bra, but I'm sure you've heard this before, but many women are wearing the wrong size bra. Wearing the right bra can totally transform your look, and when you look better, you feel better about yourself. If you're a half size, then go ahead and spend a little extra for those bras. If you usually wear plain, boring bras (b/c no one will see them right?) go ahead and buy a fancy, beautiful bra. It doesn't matter whether or not anyone will see it, it's how it make you feel. A beautiful bra underneath my clothes make me exude sexiness. Try it! You'll see a difference!!
A great website to check out is FigLeaves.com. A lot of my friends who wear odd sizes always find something there.
Stay tuned for things NOT to splurge on...
The Work Shoe
You wear these shoes over 8 hours a day so they better be comfortable! I know, we don't want something hideous and orthopedic looking to wear to work, but if you shop around, you can find a shoe that's comfortable and stylish at the same time. If it's on sale, then brownie points for you, but if not then go ahead and splurge. Trust me, these will be well worth it! Working is tiring enough without coming home to achy, blistered feet.
Once again, make sure these are not too trendy looking. A neutral color is best. I spend far less money of the flashy shoes, that cost less and make my feel hurt, because I'm only wearing them for a few hours when I go out at night.
The Bra
I'm not saying you have to spend $100 on a bra, but I'm sure you've heard this before, but many women are wearing the wrong size bra. Wearing the right bra can totally transform your look, and when you look better, you feel better about yourself. If you're a half size, then go ahead and spend a little extra for those bras. If you usually wear plain, boring bras (b/c no one will see them right?) go ahead and buy a fancy, beautiful bra. It doesn't matter whether or not anyone will see it, it's how it make you feel. A beautiful bra underneath my clothes make me exude sexiness. Try it! You'll see a difference!!
A great website to check out is FigLeaves.com. A lot of my friends who wear odd sizes always find something there.
Stay tuned for things NOT to splurge on...
Monday, June 16, 2008
Semi-Annual Sale
It's the sale you can't resist - the Victoria's Secret Semi-Annual Sale and it begins in stores tomorrow.
TIP: Get there very early tomorrow. As the days pass the selection dwindles, and as the day goes on it gets messier and harder to find what you're looking for.
Hope you all buy something "very sexy!" ;)
TIP: Get there very early tomorrow. As the days pass the selection dwindles, and as the day goes on it gets messier and harder to find what you're looking for.
Hope you all buy something "very sexy!" ;)
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Building A Better Wardrobe, Part I
Just because you're on a budget doesn't mean there aren't times when it is OK to splurge a little. Certain pieces or timeless and worth the investment because you will wear it for years to come.
Here are some items I suggest you spend a little extra on:
Handbags
These include handbags of timeless designers like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, YSL, etc. While some brands like Juicy Couture are very popular right now, Juicy is not an established brand, and I doubt it will be as popular in 50 years as it is now.
I usually limit these expensive handbags to colors that I can wear with anything so that's black, white, neutral colors, and maybe red. Also, the purses to simple shapes. Remember years ago when backpack purses were stylish and all those girls bought Prada and LV backpack purses? You wouldn't be caught dead wearing that now. If in doubt go with a clutch. Every woman needs a great clutch.
Jeans
You've heard me whine it about it before, but seriously, jean prices are out of control! It's on par with the gas prices. Maybe the oil companies have some deal with True Religion! Kidding aside, there will never be a time in your life when you will not wear jeans. Jeans are comfortable and durable and great because they can be dressed up or dressed down.
Like with the handbags, keep this to simple styles. Simple means classic cuts like straight leg or bootcut. I don't splurge on wide legs, high waist, or skinny jeans. I also don't splurge on jeans with trendy embellishments like elaborate designs on the pockets. I also like to make sure I splurge on pair with a little stretch in them so there's room to grow, because I probably won't be this slim after having babies and aging 10 years...
The Little Black Dress
Black is flattering and chic and the little black dress is a staple to every woman's wardrobe. It should be simple yet sexy. I think the most flattering shape is an a-line dress that falls right at the knees. Make sure to buy something that you will wear even when you're older, so nothing too short, too tight, or too low cute. And remember, it's sexier to leave something to the imagination, we don't realize that until we're much older unfortunately.
This dress doesn't have to be designer, because unlike handbags and jeans, no one will really know. I say the only prerequisite is that it makes you feel beautiful. If you feel great in it then you will definitely have a great time at any event you attend.
Here are some items I suggest you spend a little extra on:
Handbags
These include handbags of timeless designers like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, YSL, etc. While some brands like Juicy Couture are very popular right now, Juicy is not an established brand, and I doubt it will be as popular in 50 years as it is now.
I usually limit these expensive handbags to colors that I can wear with anything so that's black, white, neutral colors, and maybe red. Also, the purses to simple shapes. Remember years ago when backpack purses were stylish and all those girls bought Prada and LV backpack purses? You wouldn't be caught dead wearing that now. If in doubt go with a clutch. Every woman needs a great clutch.
Jeans
You've heard me whine it about it before, but seriously, jean prices are out of control! It's on par with the gas prices. Maybe the oil companies have some deal with True Religion! Kidding aside, there will never be a time in your life when you will not wear jeans. Jeans are comfortable and durable and great because they can be dressed up or dressed down.
Like with the handbags, keep this to simple styles. Simple means classic cuts like straight leg or bootcut. I don't splurge on wide legs, high waist, or skinny jeans. I also don't splurge on jeans with trendy embellishments like elaborate designs on the pockets. I also like to make sure I splurge on pair with a little stretch in them so there's room to grow, because I probably won't be this slim after having babies and aging 10 years...
The Little Black Dress
Black is flattering and chic and the little black dress is a staple to every woman's wardrobe. It should be simple yet sexy. I think the most flattering shape is an a-line dress that falls right at the knees. Make sure to buy something that you will wear even when you're older, so nothing too short, too tight, or too low cute. And remember, it's sexier to leave something to the imagination, we don't realize that until we're much older unfortunately.
This dress doesn't have to be designer, because unlike handbags and jeans, no one will really know. I say the only prerequisite is that it makes you feel beautiful. If you feel great in it then you will definitely have a great time at any event you attend.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Ditch The Bikini For A Monokini
Whether you just don't have the body for a bikini, or you just want to try something new and fresh, the monokini is definitely for you! It is like a one piece, but with cut outs on the sides.
Target
Both $29.99
Delias
Originally $42.50, On sale for $37.50
Also available in black, green, and white
Target
Both $29.99
Delias
Originally $42.50, On sale for $37.50
Also available in black, green, and white
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Dad's Day
When you're out shopping this week, pick up a little something for you dad. Father's day is this weekend, so don't forget!
We all know that men hate to ask for directions and now your dad won't have to. I have one of these navigations and I love it. What's great is that you can hook these up to your computer to get updated maps, so no more getting lost with those outdated mapquest maps. These have really gone down in price from a couple years ago and they are pretty affordable.
I've heard good things about this Navigon 2100
On sale for $119.00 at Staples.com
One of the key features of this model is text to speech technology
This Garmin Nuvi 350 also has good reviews and text to speech technology
$198 at Walmart, $199 at Amazon.com - take your pick
Honestly who doesn't like Ralph Lauren? I love it because it can be casual or dressy and it will never go out of style.
Polo Ralph Lauren Custom-Fit Oxford
Originally $85, on sale for $59.50
Bloomingdales.com
Note: only available in L, XL, XXL
Tip: check your local Polo Ralph Lauren outlet, they have great deals on everything polo.
I really like Ted Baker and I really like this shirt. Thank God for Bluefly! I love getting a huge discount on my favorite brands.
SPECIAL OFFER TODAY - 10% OFF THE ENTIRE SITE!!!
Ted Baker Black Herringbone "Smooch" Dress Shirt
Originally $110, on sale for $66, with 10% discount $59.40 (that's a steal!)
Bluefly.com
We all know that men hate to ask for directions and now your dad won't have to. I have one of these navigations and I love it. What's great is that you can hook these up to your computer to get updated maps, so no more getting lost with those outdated mapquest maps. These have really gone down in price from a couple years ago and they are pretty affordable.
I've heard good things about this Navigon 2100
On sale for $119.00 at Staples.com
One of the key features of this model is text to speech technology
This Garmin Nuvi 350 also has good reviews and text to speech technology
$198 at Walmart, $199 at Amazon.com - take your pick
Honestly who doesn't like Ralph Lauren? I love it because it can be casual or dressy and it will never go out of style.
Polo Ralph Lauren Custom-Fit Oxford
Originally $85, on sale for $59.50
Bloomingdales.com
Note: only available in L, XL, XXL
Tip: check your local Polo Ralph Lauren outlet, they have great deals on everything polo.
I really like Ted Baker and I really like this shirt. Thank God for Bluefly! I love getting a huge discount on my favorite brands.
SPECIAL OFFER TODAY - 10% OFF THE ENTIRE SITE!!!
Ted Baker Black Herringbone "Smooch" Dress Shirt
Originally $110, on sale for $66, with 10% discount $59.40 (that's a steal!)
Bluefly.com
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Sample Sales
Sample sales are the best thing to happen to the fashion world. There are quite a few denim sample sales where you can get all you favorite brands at a discount. So far I've bought a Blue Cult, Seven, and Citizen Jeans at sample sales. The jeans usually run from $70 - $90, but with jeans prices skyrocketing these days, that's a bargain.
There's a great site called thewarehousesale.com and they come to all the major cities. I recently went to one of their sales and they had every major denim brand, mens designer jeans, and Ed Hardy t-shirts. If you don't RSVP for the sales online there is a $5 fee at the door, but it is free to RSVP and only takes a minute.
I also recommend Billion Dollar Babes. These sales are located in major US cities and internationally. You can register online and they will email you special offers and notify you when sales are coming to your city. I went to one a few months ago and they had everything from Primp hoodies to Stuart Weitzman shoes. They even have pictures of celebrities wearing the clothes on the rack so you can dress just like Nicole Ritchie or Lauren Conrad. Things are a little more expensive here than the denim sales, but this is very high end clothing. I bought a dress for $99, which was originally $495 so the savings are huge there.
There's a great site called thewarehousesale.com and they come to all the major cities. I recently went to one of their sales and they had every major denim brand, mens designer jeans, and Ed Hardy t-shirts. If you don't RSVP for the sales online there is a $5 fee at the door, but it is free to RSVP and only takes a minute.
I also recommend Billion Dollar Babes. These sales are located in major US cities and internationally. You can register online and they will email you special offers and notify you when sales are coming to your city. I went to one a few months ago and they had everything from Primp hoodies to Stuart Weitzman shoes. They even have pictures of celebrities wearing the clothes on the rack so you can dress just like Nicole Ritchie or Lauren Conrad. Things are a little more expensive here than the denim sales, but this is very high end clothing. I bought a dress for $99, which was originally $495 so the savings are huge there.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Oh My Ombre!
I must confess that when ombre first hit the fashion scene, I wasn't a huge fan of it, but now I kind of like it. I hope you like my ombre finds below:
Target Ombre Gray Peep-toes
$24.99
Other colors available, see Target.com
Target Ombre Purple Flats
$19.00
I like that this dress can be worn somewhere beachy with some metallic/jeweled sandals or dressed up with some heels...
Dillards (Dillards is not a national store, but see dillards.com)
$69.00
Also available in purple
The Vera Wang Collection at Kohls has a really pretty ombre scarf
Originally $30, on sale for $18
Also available in Gray
While at Kohls, pick up this Ombre clutch
Originally $32, on sale for $19.20
Also available in espresso and light olive
Forever 21 Ombre Tunic
$22
Even if the ombre trend is short-lived, these sunglasses are worth the price!
Forever 21
$6.80
Available in other colors, see forever21.com
Bright Ombre Tank from Forever 21
$7.80
Also available in gray
This is a hot ombre swimsuit from Victoria's Secret AND it's on SALE!
Triangle top and bottom each sold separately
Originally $38/piece, on sale for $28/piece
Note: Victoria's Secret also has an ombre monokini which is smoking hot and on sale for $45 from $60
Lastly, here is an ombre hoodie from Victoria's Secret
Originally $49, on sale for $35
Target Ombre Gray Peep-toes
$24.99
Other colors available, see Target.com
Target Ombre Purple Flats
$19.00
I like that this dress can be worn somewhere beachy with some metallic/jeweled sandals or dressed up with some heels...
Dillards (Dillards is not a national store, but see dillards.com)
$69.00
Also available in purple
The Vera Wang Collection at Kohls has a really pretty ombre scarf
Originally $30, on sale for $18
Also available in Gray
While at Kohls, pick up this Ombre clutch
Originally $32, on sale for $19.20
Also available in espresso and light olive
Forever 21 Ombre Tunic
$22
Even if the ombre trend is short-lived, these sunglasses are worth the price!
Forever 21
$6.80
Available in other colors, see forever21.com
Bright Ombre Tank from Forever 21
$7.80
Also available in gray
This is a hot ombre swimsuit from Victoria's Secret AND it's on SALE!
Triangle top and bottom each sold separately
Originally $38/piece, on sale for $28/piece
Note: Victoria's Secret also has an ombre monokini which is smoking hot and on sale for $45 from $60
Lastly, here is an ombre hoodie from Victoria's Secret
Originally $49, on sale for $35
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Sam Moon
If you're from Dallas you should know about Sam Moon, it's the giant warehouse where you can get everything from necklaces to luggage at very low prices. I've seen everything from David Yurman and Juicy Couture inspired jewelry to brand names like Kenneth Cole. Check out sammoon.com for everything.
No more guessing which suitcase is yours in baggage claim!
Suitcase: $25.95
Duffel: $11.95
The style of this bag reminds me of the famous Hermes Birkin bag. See the Hermes Birkin second.
The Sam Moon handbag is $18.95
Hermes Birkin: beaucoup dollars and an insanely long waitlist!
If you are into tortoiseshell compare the Sam Moon pair to the Versace Pair
Sam Moon: $5.95
Versace: $240.00 at Saks Fifth Avenue
No more guessing which suitcase is yours in baggage claim!
Suitcase: $25.95
Duffel: $11.95
The style of this bag reminds me of the famous Hermes Birkin bag. See the Hermes Birkin second.
The Sam Moon handbag is $18.95
Hermes Birkin: beaucoup dollars and an insanely long waitlist!
If you are into tortoiseshell compare the Sam Moon pair to the Versace Pair
Sam Moon: $5.95
Versace: $240.00 at Saks Fifth Avenue
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Pretty In Hot Pink!
Don't be afraid of neon, it won't bite, I promise! This isn't the neon of the 80s/90s, this neon trend brings us bright rich colors and just a touch of color can take you outfit to the next level.
These sunglasses make laying by the pool even more fun...
Urban Outfitters
$8 - $14
See the website for other colors
You won't lose this bright blue watch...
Urban Outfitters
$38
Also available in grey and yello
More neon arm candy...
Steve Madden Bracelets
$14 - $18
Multiple colors available
Steve Madden Wedges
Flipper Fuschia Leather
Originally $69.95, on sale for $49.95
Nine West Nuncio Pump
Get it at Amazon.com in different colors
J. Crew Embroidered Carmen Tank
Originally $88, Now $39.99
Also available in navy and white
Forever 21
Tiered Bodice Chiffon Top
$19.80
These sunglasses make laying by the pool even more fun...
Urban Outfitters
$8 - $14
See the website for other colors
You won't lose this bright blue watch...
Urban Outfitters
$38
Also available in grey and yello
More neon arm candy...
Steve Madden Bracelets
$14 - $18
Multiple colors available
Steve Madden Wedges
Flipper Fuschia Leather
Originally $69.95, on sale for $49.95
Nine West Nuncio Pump
Get it at Amazon.com in different colors
J. Crew Embroidered Carmen Tank
Originally $88, Now $39.99
Also available in navy and white
Forever 21
Tiered Bodice Chiffon Top
$19.80
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Mellow Yellow
Ok I am well aware that not everyone can pull off yellow. I think it looks best on tan girls, but it is summer so no one has an excuse to be all pasty! Get out of the house and soak up some rays! Yellow is HOT, HOT, HOT this season. Here are some of my favorites...
Forever 21 Angela Babydoll dress
$19.80
Also available in blue, fuschia, and orange
Nordstrom Ruby Rox One Shoulder Minidress
$64.00
Also available in black
Here is a really cute tank top from American Eagle
$29.50
Also available in khaki, wild aster, and lake blue
Victoria's Secret Ruched Halter Bra Top Dress
Originally $38, on sale for $29
Also available: black, white, cherry, chocolate, etc. (see victoriassecret.com for details)
Lastly, here is a dress by Isaac Mizrahi for Target. The back is so cute!
$49.99
Target has a tab under women for yellow dresses, be sure to check it out.
Forever 21 Angela Babydoll dress
$19.80
Also available in blue, fuschia, and orange
Nordstrom Ruby Rox One Shoulder Minidress
$64.00
Also available in black
Here is a really cute tank top from American Eagle
$29.50
Also available in khaki, wild aster, and lake blue
Victoria's Secret Ruched Halter Bra Top Dress
Originally $38, on sale for $29
Also available: black, white, cherry, chocolate, etc. (see victoriassecret.com for details)
Lastly, here is a dress by Isaac Mizrahi for Target. The back is so cute!
$49.99
Target has a tab under women for yellow dresses, be sure to check it out.
I'll take that, and the shoes too!
I love fashion, but I don't love the pricetags on the designer goods all the celebrities are wearing. Plus let's get real with gas prices over $4/gallon some of us can't afford to spend $200 on a pair of jeans anymore.
I hope to show you all that you can keep up with the trends and still be able to pay your rent. You can get the cute dress and the shoes and earrings to go with it.
I hope to show you all that you can keep up with the trends and still be able to pay your rent. You can get the cute dress and the shoes and earrings to go with it.
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