Category Archives: Quickie Darling Deal & Steal

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Snuggle Up With This Toggle Coat From Urban Outfitters!

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The weather is slowly, but surely changing & I know that I’m loving the warmth that my fur-hooded down jacket is providing, but I’m also looking for something a little softer, but affordable to add to my slim outerwear collection.

I love the cooperative toggle coat ($29.99) from Urban Outfitters, which has been reduced from its original $129.99 price.  While only sizes Medium & Large are currently available, this is the kind of coat that can get a lot of use from January to March, especially here on Long Island.

I’m not always a fan of the toggle look, but here the leather details & tooth-like toggles add some texture to an otherwise basic wool winter coat. This is also the right length to wear over a leggings outfit, or even if you’re running some errands after hitting the gym. I’m also a big fan of the bright color b/c it adds a nie pop of personality to your ensemble, even if you’re having an all-black day.

I also posted a little celebrity-inspiration in toggle coats, featuring Amanda Peet, Rihanna, & Britney Spears showing off the many ways a coat like this can be worn.  For more great sale items from Urban Outfitters, click here! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Get Sofia Vergara’s Collection @Kmart Before Store Closures!

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It’s been all over the news today that KMart stores across the country are in trouble, so I took the style liberty to check out what’s going on in terms of style at the retailer, which sells Sofia Vergara’s collection, aptly called Sofia by Sofia Vergara.  The affordable prices, figure-flattering cuts, & modern pieces are must-haves for any wardrobe.

Here are some of my favorite pieces that I will be checking out if & when I make my way to the local Kmart store.  The flared ink wash jeans ($20.99) are an easy fix to putting together a polished, but dressed down look for casual Fridays at the office.  Then after work, when you’re heading out for cocktails, throw on the lace back dress ($14.39) in green, which has a little surprise when you turn around to tip the bartender.

If you’re daring enough to show off your gams, try the lace micro mini skirt ($8.99) with a silk blouse & opaque tights.  If you’re looking for some glitzy shoes to wear when ringing in the new year, the tipsy red carpet pump ($19.99) in gold is the perfect way to complete your look.  Also, there are just some days when animal print does just the trick, so take a look at the bustier dress ($21.59), which is available in both neutral & grey, emphasizing your best assets. For a little splash of shine, the oval links bracelet ($9.99) in silver makes for a trendy way to punch up an LBD.  Lastly, ’tis the season for jegging jeans ($17.99) with an ultra slim ankle, perfect for wearing under boots of all heights.

I have previously reported on the collection, as seen here, but be sure to check back with Style Darling, as well as on the Kmart site for newer styles & markdowns on these sexy looks! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: I’m Pumped For These Nine West Flats!

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I’m not a fan of brown, but I do like the neutral shades of tan, nude, & beige to help bring out the simple elegance in a daytime look of dark denim jeans & a ruffled blouse with a cardigan.  For when I want to give my feet a break, or am just looking for a new way to put an outfit together, I like to look to my textured flats & here’s a perfect example if you’re looking to revamp your shoe collection for 2012.

The Nine West ‘Cacey’ flat ($39.50) in sahara suede shows off both suede & patent leather with a classic ballerina bow at the toe.  The flats also come in other styles & colors, including black & white polka dot, python, leopard, & black suede, but these are sold at the best price.

Because the color is so neutral, these can be worn all year long, especially with tweed trousers for work, a printed shirt dress in the spring, & romper & cropped cardigan in the summer.

For more great sales & quickie deals on must-haves, check out other Quickie Darling Deal & Steal posts, including a lace dress from Topshop, rust satin heels from Lulu’s, & my new favorite boots from Payless! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Replace The LBD With This All-Over Lace Dress from Topshop!

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Need some ideas for putting together an elegant New Year’s Eve look?  Of course LBDs are classic go-to options, but how about something in lace?  This bonded lace pencil dress ($45.00) from Topshop is currently marked down from $80.00!

I added some accessories to help build the look in many different directions.  Try a pop of color in modest heels like the ‘Influence’ bow pump ($19.99) in red from Payless, or go a little daring micro fiber tassel side zip platform bootie ($22.95) in black from GOjane.

To help cinch in your waist, try a tonal belt like the geometric glitter stretch belt ($9.50) from Charlotte Russe, which will add a contrasting deco feel to the already elegant look.  Also, when it comes to jewelry, a busy dress like this one demands refined pieces like the MixIt jet black statement necklace ($21.99) from JC Penney, or @Kohl’s you can find the silver tone multi-strand bracelet ($19.60) by Jennifer Lopez.

What are your plans for New Year’s Eve?  What are you thinking about wearing? Happy Holidays & Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Get Ready for Rich, Rust Heels from Lulu’s!

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I’ve been at a loss for blogging inspiration lately, until I took the time to catch up with one of my favorite blogs, J’s Everyday Fashion.  She’s a major player in the world of style blogging today & is obsessed with mustard / gold hues, which I’ve always stayed away from, thinking that the color wouldn’t look good with my pale complexion.  She’s helped open my mind up to the color & I’m so excited to talk about these gorgeous Qupid ‘Nydia’ satin bow tie peep toe pumps ($25.00) in rust on Lulu’s!

The color is unexpected & much more luxe than the average gold or metallic-inspired satin heel for a formal or cocktail occasion.  The price was originally $36.00 & would make any LBD look fabulous for upcoming holiday parties.  In addition, they’re the most unexpected way to color block your outfit, especially if you’re wearing something in a deep plum, bright cobalt, or regal forest green. Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: I’m In Love With These Knee Boots!

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Okay, so I’ve been on the fierce search for some stylish knee boots all season long, ones that will comfortably fit around my shapely calves (a hard-earned feature since I’ve been wearing heels for the last 14 years of my life), especially ever since I received my acceptance to a Writer’s Conference in Florence, Italy next month.  I did attend earlier in 2011, but managed to only pack my outfits for function & not so much for fashion since I don’t have a whole lot of travel experience & was concerned about my luggage getting lost.  As fabulous as my ten days in the Renaissance city were, I didn’t meet my own stylish expectations, but lesson learned & I will be returning all the more knowledgable & stylish.

After surrendering my legs to many different fittings of boots, mostly from my shoe-flasgship-store, Payless, I finally discovered the American Eagle Nola Cozy Wedge ($29.99) in black.  My search wasn’t supposed to lead me to wedges or anything with the heel, since the Florentine streets are notoriously laid with cobblestone & I nearly twisted both ankles simultaneously while prancing about on my first night in high-heeled ankle booties.  The rest of my trip consisted of flat ankle boots & sneakers.  Unfortunately the latter pair was worn on the rainy day that I decided to hit up the Salvatore Ferragamo museum.  Shame on me!!

However, once I stood tall in a cute leggings & long sweater outfit while donning these boots pictured to the right, they felt right at home on my feet & there was no way that I wouldn’t be headed to a country shaped like a boot in anything other than these fabulous finds!

I was so relieved since suede is my go-to fabric for fall / winter footwear.  There’s just something to lush & luxurious since you can basically wear leather footwear all year long, making suede a little extra special.  Not to mention that the ankle-buckle details & fur trim are adorable!  However, if the black style isn’t for you, there’s also a super cute brown pair, also reduced from its original $49.99 price. The $29.99 sale price was especially right since the boots are an early Christmas present from my mother to me!

If you sign up for emails from Payless, you can get news on all the latest sales, including when their next BOGO 50% off will be, as well as learn about special coupon codes for 20% off! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Glamorous Gunmetal Heels For The Holidays!

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There’s just so much to write about when it comes to style for the holidays, but one of my favorite ways to celebrate with some sparkle is with a pair of shoes (big surprise)!  I’ve been reading my latest issues of Harper’s Bazaar & Marie Claire, & have learned (as if I didn’t already know) that this season is all about celebrating the glamour of the holidays, embracing sequins, glitter, & shine in a way that isn’t normally recognized during the rest of the year.  While perusing through the GOjane website, I found these gorgeous glitter bow platforms ($15.95) in multi-color & they were reduced in price from $30.00.

This is one of my favorite websites to check out for blogging & the prices are always super reasonable, when finds from Steve Madden, Nine West, or Piperlime are just beyond my budget. These shoes, which are also available in black glitter & silver glitter, are perfect to wear with a lacey LBD for a holiday party with friends, or even to add a splash of sass to a mini skirt look with a satin blouse.

What shoes are you looking forward to wearing?  Which are your go-to stores for holiday shoes?  Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: 20% Off Special Discount Today Only @OldNavy.com!

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So maybe some of you are bad & go shopping online at work, but sometimes it just works out that way since the stores are so crowded & we all work long hours. Perhaps to help fellow Style Darlings out, here’s a little tip about what’s going on @Old Navy‘s website.  Today only, you can get 20% off your order with code ONHOLIDAY! There are a few exclusions to this discount, so be sure to check out the website to get all the details.  In addition, if you spend over $50, you can benefit from everyday FREE SHIPPING!

I’ve picked out two favorite of-the-moment items on the website.  The striped cap-sleeve top ($14.00) in black rugby stripe is an essential necessary to recreate that Parisian chic look that’s so popular on celebs like Taylor Swift & Miranda Kerr.  The flattering fit is available in sizes XS – XL & it’s marked down from $24.94.  In addition, I love the pop of color in the collarless wool-blend coat ($74.94) in ruby pink.  This coat is also available in cream, another regal option for your outerwear collection. 

Which are your favorite pieces @Old Navy right now?  Are these items on your holiday shopping list? Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Slip Into Faux Snakeskin Flats @Topshop!

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As usual, when conversation starts to run a little dry, I immediately turn to some shoe talk!  A friend / co-worker & I were having a discussion of the need for shoes this afternoon.  While I was perfectly okay with my shoe supply, she, a glowing new mom, was on the hunt for new shoes.  I know she’s a ballet flat kind of Style Darling & so I was inspired to hunt for some adorable shoe choices.  There are some days when a cute pair of flats are just necessary, which is why I return to the style, time & time again.  Recently, I was suffering from some major calf aches after overdoing my post-Thanksgiving workout routine & required to stand on level ground for a few days, so the flats came in handy.

Pricing on flats is totally up to the consumer b/c one can get a lot of mileage out of flats, especially in a work environment where walking & standing is necessary.  I did some clicking around on Topshop & found that the Valentine faux snakeskin ballet pumps ($36.00) in pink & tan are unexpected ways to mix up your footwear, especially since they’d look so fierce against an opague tight or sneaking out from under your favorite pair of trousers.

Also, the natural & orange pairs ($40.00) come in a toecap design too, which make for an elegant way of showing off an animal-inspired print in your shoes.  Try these with an a-line skirt & blouse, or for a casual day out & about with skinny jeans & a graphic tee.  In my opinion, there’s always a good time for some snakeskin (although black & white zebra is always my first choice), but a little hint of your wild side makes for a confident & playful outfit!

Of course, I understand that said friend might not be looking to spend a whole $36-$40 on a pair of flats, but the style is just a suggestion, especially when a minimal print like pinstripes or lace details in your wardrobe can really be accented well with faux snakeskin.  For other darling, affordable flats, check out these links to Charlotte Russe, Payless, Forever 21, & GOjane. Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: How I Saved Over $27 On This Sweater From Kohl’s!

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Shame on me for going to Kohl’s this weekend when I’m on a crazy tight budget since I’m going away next month- however, I couldn’t resist a deal this good on something so cute that could last me all winter long! Of course when people travel during the winter, they’re going to warmer climates, but not this Style Darling.  I’m headed to Florence, Italy & there, I’ll be packing on the sweaters while I swig back il vino! With the goal of only packing two pairs of jeans for the 10-day excursion, I was going to rely on leggings & sweater looks, which will surely take up most of the room in my carry-on luggage.

When I was passing by the Juniors’ department (somewhere that I haven’t traveled for quite some time now), I found this Mudd marled tunic sweater ($19.99) in deep teal.  There were also variations on gray, black, red, purple, & navy, but I’ve been gravitating to the jewel tone a lot lately.  Don’t brunettes always look good in teal?  Anyway, knowing that juniors’ sizes run a little small, I grabbed one size up & focused on the sale price, which had been reduced from $40.00.  That’s 50% savings right there & I had a 20% off coupon for being a Kohl’s card holder.

I circled rack like a vulture of bargains & style, which is when I noticed that the sign for the price on the other side of the rack read $14.99. Having come from a retail background, I knew that the store has to honor the error in pricing for the merchandise, so I went up to the register, ready to make my purchase, which rang up for $19.99.  When I very politely made my point that there was a sign which read $14.99, without hesitation, the careful cashier gave me another $5.00 off the price & didn’t even check to see if my allegations were correct.  The sweater came to just over $12.00 & I walked out of there one happy Style Darling!

Lesson learned: It never hurts to pay attention & speak up, especially when there are savings to be had.  If it came to speaking to a supervisor about the error, I would have been very happy to reason with him/her & not be a crazy customer, especially this time of year.  I even had my bestie with me as a witness that the sign had been incorrectly priced for the item advertised. Power in number! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Fun & Flowery Holiday Shoes from Payless!

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I am on a crazy budget right now since I’m headed to Italy in January, but my jaw dropped in awe over these flower-accented gorgeous peep toes, the ‘Isle’ flower platform pump in black & coral ($34.99) from Payless.

If you’re scouting out dresses to wear to celebrate the holidays with your friends, family, or significant others, then here are some fabulous shoe suggestions.  If you’re going for something edgy & colorful, play it down with the black pair, or if something metallic & flirty is waiting in your closet, then why not add a pop of color like coral?

Since the holiday shopping season is in full force, maybe ordering online would be your best option.  TIP: If you order from Payless & have it shipped to the store, it’s FREE!!! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: The Prettiest Pattern Tights By Vera Wang!

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On a day-to-day basis, I’m wearing some sort of textured tights around the office & when going out with friends.  I’ve recently put a nasty & irreparable hole in my favorite zebra tights, but while on the search for a replacement pair, I found these Simply Vera Vera Wang tights, which are on my stocking stuffer list!

The checked control-top tights in plum ($14.00) & floral ribbon tights in black ($14.00) are currently part of a Buy One, Get One 1/2 Off sale @Kohl’s.  Usually I don’t spend more than $7.00 on tights or stockings, but when there’s a sale like this, it’s hard to resist! Both pairs are available in multiple colors & if you are a cardholder, you can get rewards up to an additional 30% off!

When you have such an elegant pattern like these on your legs, you have the opportunity to mix up prints with an abstract sheath dress, wool suit, or blouse with shorts look.  Also, pairing legwear like this is perfect for mary jane platforms, ankle booties, or knee boots!

What kind of tights are you wearing this season?  Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Get Ruffled With a Blouse from ASOS!

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I always like to wear a top that can be mixed & matched with any type of bottom, or layered with a vast array of separates.  I especially love blouses that can be worn for work, daytime, or going out.  Hence, my choosing the true decadence ruffle top ($35.94, originally $70.08) in navy from ASOS. It’s also available in cream, but both colors are essentials for any season!

I wanted to share this sweet find, which is perfect to wear when you’re at the office with the seamless scoop neck cami ($24.90) underneath from The Limited.  Or, go sexy for nighttime & wear a cute solid-colored bra, but pair the blouse with the hammered satin blazer ($39.99)  from Charlotte Russe for a little extra pop of shine.

I realize that there’s a whole lot of ruffles going on here, but they can easily be tucked into a pair of pleated cuff shorts ($39.99) on sale @Express with textured tights & boots, or with the yarn-dyed pencil skirt ($49.99) from @White House Black Market & cardigan for a more professional look.

For an effortless casual day, take the essential nylon leggings ($5.50), which are available in eight different colors @Forever 21.  Break out a chunky knit or flyaway cardigan with hoop earrings to complete the look while you’re running errands this fall!

How would you wear this blouse? What are your go-to separates for building an outfit? For more looks from ASOS, check out The $100 Challenge / Darling of the Day featuring Lea Michele & Color Me Style featuring Eva Longoria, both wearing ASOS frocks.  Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Purely Precious Peep Toe Pumps for $19.99!

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In an effort to try & feature some especially darling, on-the-spot deals, I featured an adorable t-strap pump available @G by Guess a few days ago & now I have another to-die-for find.  These ‘Fiorra’ black satin peep toe pumps ($19.99), also available in champagne satin @Steve Madden are perfect for any upcoming fall / winder wedding.  Also, the holidays are coming up, which means that it’s time to start thinking about your New Year’s Eve look also!

I’m always one to advocate a bow, that’s no secret.  These capture everything feminine & frilly that I love about evening shoes.  They’re originally marked down from $89.95, so getting on top of this deal right now is one end-of-season clearance pick that you can’t miss!

If you’re a fan of Steve Madden designs, be sure to also check out stores like Mandee, DSW, Zappos, & 6PM to find all the latest style & recent markdowns.  Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Take A Look @This T-Strap!

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Obviously, I’m wild about shoes & am starting to look over my budget for this holiday season.  Some of that includes a few extras for myself b/c I know how hard I’ve been working to keep up with work, school, writing, blogging, & trying not to let the crumbling personal life get the best of me.  If even for a moment, there’s a pair of shoes that brings joy to my life, I raise a glass to it & walk on with a little more pep in my step!

I’m not a huge lover of t-strap heels for myself, but when I see other Style Darlings wear them, I always want to give them another try.  However, then I came across these super adorable t-strap Jadenna heels ($19.95) @G by Guess!  While they’re dressy enough for a cocktail look with a patent lunch, I do love the delicate bow & rhinestone detail.  It’s a very Charlotte York kind of shoe & it’s a must-have at such a reasonable price, marked down from $59.50.

The extra feminine details would also look stunning with black opaque tights & a dark denim skirt.  This would help dress the shoes down & you’d get more wear out of them! Or for fancier occasions, if you’re wearing something with a killer slit, this would make for a polished & elegant surprise on your feet.

What do you think of these shoes?  How would you wear them?  Do you gravitate to t-straps or prefer more open pumps?  Check out my previous Quickie Darling Deal & Steal posts, featuring suede heels & H by Halston shoes @Bakers.  Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Strike A Fierce Pose With These 5″ Heels!

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Every now & again, I come across a pair of shoes that are easily a must-have… maybe that’s not entirely true b/c it happens more often than not!  During my search for ruby red shoes for last night’s blog, I stumbled on these five-inch stunners from Payless.  Brash has designed these ‘Konstant’ block heel pumps ($36.99) in gray & black.  Once I get my feet on them in stores, one of them will be mine.  It’s just tough deciding which color!  However, Payless is currently offering their BOGO 50% off sale- so many buying both won’t be such a debate, although I’m more likely to go gray!

These are perfect for a work look of a pencil skirt, cardigan, & textured tights.  Or take the gray shoes for next spring with some lighter fabrics like a chiffon pleated tea length skirt & a tucked in t-shirt under a blazer.  In situations like this… I think, What would Pippa do?

What do you think of these shoes?  Would you buy / wear them?  Are you interested in more deals from Payless?  If so, check out some previous Payless-oriented posts, featuring Kristen Stewart’s Glamour cover look, stylish flat boots, & cute cold weather accessories! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Eloquii’s New Plus Size Line @The Limited!

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This blog is dedicated to any nay-saying Style Darlings who think I only create posts for the stick figured ladies out there.  I am not one of those, wearing a size 14-short jeans & most of my tops are medium-large, although I have lost a full 12lbs for the 2011 calendar year, hoping to drop at least one size by the end of the year.

Anyway, since I do love The Limited, I was especially excited to share the news that the Eloquii label has created an online only line in sizes 14W-24W. The prices for items range between $30 – $148, including jackets, pants, intimate apparel, & lots more! The stylish collection is fall-friendly, holiday-ready, & work appropriate for Darlings of any style!

Check out the website for more stylish ways to shop the collection, as well as how you can use a special 20% of coupon code (BUYME20) to use until Sunday! Where’s your favorite place to shop for plus size designs?  What are your staple pieces to build a wardrobe?  Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: New Markdowns on H by Halston Shoes @Bakers!

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If you didn’t know already, legendary designer Halston has created some super sexy styles of shoes.  The H by Halston brand can be found @Bakers.  Halston has been worn on red carpets by such celebrities as Sarah Jessica Parker, Halle Berry, & Nicole Richie.

When I was looking a the store’s website, I found some really amazing style son sale.  Although some of these prices are not necessarily in my fall budget, but if you’re looking to get your feet on the luxury footwear, take a look at the sale items, which are marked down!

I picked these four, which range in price from $29.99 – $94.99 & are perfect to add some height, thus making you look slimmer.  Check out the Alexa ($29.99, marked down from $90.00), Brodie ($49.99, marked down from $100.00), Ruby ($49.99, marked down from $110.00), & Rosalind ($94.99, marked down from $100.00), as well as other styles on the website.

The Alexa platforms are perfect to wear with a maxi dress while on vacation or even with a pencil skirt & glittery blazer.  The red snake & suede details on the Brodie peep toes would look super fierce with a structural LBD or with a metallic draped number.

The black & silver suede Ruby platforms are a mix of 70s & mod, perfect for a solid sheath dress or with a flowy jumpsuit.  The playful Rosalind maryjanes are a modern way of showing off a 20s flapper look, or even for a work look with wide leg trousers & a pinstripe button down shirt.

Fore more news on the latest shoe sales, check out lace peep toes inspired by Christian Louboutin, killer heels from GOjane, & Pippa Middleton’s ballet flats! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Trick or Treat? BOGO 50% Off @Payless + 20% Off Coupon Code!

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Trick of treat, Style Darlings!  I don’t usually post directly from my emails, but considering that there’s some bad weather out there on this Halloween Eve weekend, I know I’m staying in & may indulge in some online shopping.  For those of you who’d like to join me, check out the big BOGO sale @Payless going on right now!  It started yesterday, so there are still plenty of styles to pick from!  Also, I received an email a while back about a special 20% off coupon code, which expires 10/31, so this weekend is the weekend to jump on sale & coupon! If you shop online & have your purchased shipped to a local Payless store, it’s FREE! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Take A Stylish Walk On The Wild Side @Cache!

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I’ve never actually shopped @Cache, but when I received an email from the store about their 60% off clearance sale, I just had to check it out.  I got really excited to find animal-inspired pieces like the dress ($159.00) that looks flattering to all shapes.  It’s just the kind of print that I was referring to in my previous post about what to wear with the lace peep toes!

Next, the snake print cami ($39.00) would really wow underneath a boyfriend blazer with skinny jeans & red heels, or wear it with a cardigan & pencil skirt to make it more of a work-appropriate shell under basics.

The silk shorts ($59.00) remind me of something Rachel Bilson’s character would wear on Hart of Dixie, but these are easily fall-ready if paired with black tights, a mock turtleneck & some ankle booties.  My favorite of all is the tiered skirt ($49.00), which is just enough flirty & feminine for my style.  It’s classy enough to wear with your favorite button down blouse or sexy enough to go with the highest platforms in your closet!

When you look at the prices here, you might be thinking that I’ve forgotten my style-on-a-budget rule, but if you check out the website, you can get an addition 60% off, so the dress which was originally marked at $168.00 & is on sale for $159.00, then becomes $63.60 in your shopping cart after the 60% off!  Oh the power of bargains!  I should also mention that this is an end-of-the-season clearance sale so not all sizes are available.  I wanted to share the news on the great sale so that my readers can benefit! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: The Latest Sale Apparel Under $30 @G By Guess!

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I recently discovered the online site, G by Guess, a sub-brand of Guess, featuring very stylish apparel & accessories. I clicked through their sale items & found some very fashionable pieces marked down to prices under $30.00!  I always say that the beginning of a season is the best time to shop past-season pieces.  Here’s a perfect example of that!

I love the slinky one-shoulder dress ($22.48) in white, which is reduced in price from $49.50, but it’s only available online in XL. White is a tricky color to pull off if you have curves, but the flattering cut & with some carefully placed accessories like a metallic belt or a leather jacket, this could be a really hot piece to wear for a night out! Or, even a romper for fall can work! The chambray romper ($22.48) is perfect for a look with tights, ankle boots, & an oversized blazer if you want to make a playful daytime outfit.  Replace the built-in belt with something textured in croc or with grommets to create more dimension to this go-to summer piece.

The cargo ruffle jacket ($24.98) is great to complete a look consisting of dark denim jeans, a graphic tee, & pointy toe heels.  It’s a little bit urban, yet still offers a flattering cinch at the waist for feminine dresses.  Most of us can agree that bootcut jeans ($27.48) flatter nearly all shapes.  They’re the best casual & cool way of dressing down a sparkly top, & looking edgy in a masculine vest.

As for tops, I found these two which I thought were so cute & at a great price.  The printed top ($14.98) makes for a colorful pairing against leather leggings & a fitted jacket, or can be worn for day under a chunky knit & denim pencil skirt.  The plaid v-neck top ($14.98) shows a colorful pattern in multi / black, as well as a light purple.  It’s a fun alternative to the traditional plaid button-down for fall & also would pair nicely with something cordouroy… OR perhaps the green cargo pants ($19.98)?  I love that they’re a little bit utilitarian, yet still polished enough to wear with heels. On the website, they’re only available in size 24, but for those of you who are looking for a bottom option other than the easy go-to black trousers, grab them while you can!

Have you ever shopped @G by Guess?  What’s your best sale / clearance find for fall?  For more Quickie Darling Deal & Steal posts, check out deals on a sweater tunic, cozy tops, & jewelry!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Sweet Tunic Sweater From Forever 21 & Marked Down Boots From Payless!

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Sweaters have been on my mind, if you haven’t noticed!  I’ve been searching all over to get my hands on a sweater dress, or at least a tunic sweater to wear with my leggings & new flat boots.  During a spur-of-the-moment trip to Forever 21, I came across this super adorable, semi-preppy looking knit striped tunic sweater in black & white ($13.50).  The price was perfect & I just had to try it on. All my friends know that I’m very pro black & white & when I found that it fit & would look perfect with my leggings, I knew it was a must-have!

The tunic also comes in charcoal & black, red & black, chocolate & khaki, & heather gray & black, in sizes Small, Medium, & Large. I know Forever 21 is not a store for everybody.  I think the brand needs to expand on their available of sizes for us Style Darlings with curves, but when you find something like this, it’s so hard to pass up.

Even though Payless doesn’t have a big BOGO 50% off sale now, many of their latest boot styles are marked down.  These ‘Sayde Anne’ short shaft boots ($19.99) were originally priced for $34.99.  I bought them during the BOGO 60% off sale on Columbus Day, but went back to get an adjustment since there was about a $15.00 price difference.  Since I didn’t necessarily need the boots right away, I could’ve just returned them at the store if they wouldn’t do an adjustment & then bought them online with FREE SHIPPING to any Payless store location.  Always gotta find a way to beat the system all in the name of style!

I’m planning on wearing this tunic with basic black leggings (which I recently blogged about also), the gray flat boots, & some kind of wide belt to show off my shape.  I’ve been invited to a friend’s house for a “comfy snuggle night,” where we’ll enjoy some karaoke, a movie, appetizers, & desserts.  When it comes to comfy, I automatically think of something with leggings that won’t make me feel so constricted. If & when I’m able to post pictures of myself in the actual outfits that I’m talking so much about, this will make for a great post in The $100 Challenge b/c the pieces shown above & my leggings for $8.00 from Target only total just under $42!

Take a click on over to the store’s wesbite to check out their latest BOGO FREE sale on tops, sweaters, skirts, stocking, & menswear!  Would you wear this sweater tunic?  Do you shop @Forever 21?  Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Get Cozy & Comfy with Old Navy Sale Items!

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A new Old Navy store recently opened just a few miles away, so I was super psyched to see that they had some pretty big sales going on!  I treated myself to some cold-weather favorites, but the prices in the store were actually much, much cheaper! This just goes to show that the online sales aren’t always the better deal.  You gotta do your style research!

There’s nothing that I love more than a cozy, but stylish top to pair with jeans & boots for a fall day.  Even though this past weekend was very summer-like in the 80s, I’m happy to say that I’m refreshing my fall / winter wardrobe on a budget.  I love the shawl collar cardigan ($34.00), also available in red.  You can layer it for much colder says over a button down shirt, or put it over a summer top with a denim skirt.  I did go home with the cropped fleece jacket ($20.00), but found that the charcoal was better suited for my style.  It’s the perfect way to complete your look without breaking out the down jacket when it’s really not too chilly out.

I know my friend Laurie would love the collared breezy blouse ($27.00) for its versatility & earth-tone.  It comes in growing green, frosty peach, black jack, & brown animal print in sizes XS – XXL.  It’s a stylish basic to go under a sweater vest, with wide leg trouser jeans, belted under a cardigan, or worn open with a graphic tee & skinny pants.

For something heavier, the cropped cowl neck sweater ($29.00) is just the piece to dress down leather leggings, brocade cigarette pants, or a tweed pencil skirt for weekend events or day gatherings.  If you’re just not ready for all that bulk, the dolman-sleeve cardigan ($25.00) is a smart way to dress up some basic slacks, or wear your sparkly flair at the office.

Lastly, I also found a home from the preppy ‘plumonade’ mini cable-knit v-neck sweater ($22.00), which is also available in black jack, bright white, baby spinach, crimson & clover, oatmeal heather, & medium heather gray.  It’s great for a pencil skirt & patent leather belt, or worn over a collared shirt for a job interview.

What are your favorite fall pieces?  Are you a loyal Old Navy shopper?  How much are you willing to invest in key seasonal pieces?  For more fall-ready finds, check out The Stylish Five‘s cold weather accessories, how to wear a turtleneck like a celebrity in Basics for a Bargain, & where to find the best flats, scarves, booties, tights, & belts in NYC Street Style! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: My Favorite New Belt & Flats from Charlotte Russe!

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I know I posted a Quickie Darling Deal & Steal post yesterday about affordable leggings, but I was so excited to find these items this afternoon that I couldn’t help but repeat the category!  Don’t you love a great sale on this holiday weekend?

During a quickie trip to the mall on this sunny, summery Columbus Day, I stopped in @Charlotte Russe b/c at the entrance, there was a sign to text “78953” & you could get any number of discounts, including $5.00 off your purchase.  I was snooping around the store for some affordable finds & came across this lurex front belt ($9.50), which answers the question for me: Do I want to wear my gray belt? Or the black one?

Also, there was a wall of flats that had been recently marked down.  I’m always looking for a cute way to relieve my feet after a long day in heels, or a dressy way to keep my feet comfortable if I know that heels just aren’t an option (on those very rare occasions).  I love these pleated satin ballet flat ($10.00) in champagne, which were originally priced for $19.50.  I know they’ll be perfect as we get closer to the holidays & the satin fabric makes any casual look just a bit fancier & more feminine.

I continued to scour the store & picked out a beaded bracelet & matching necklace b/c select styles of jewelry were 2 for $10.  In addition, I picked up a few basic tanks for under $5.00  By the end of my shopping trip, I used my $5 off coupon code that I received via text, in addition to an extra 10% off on the non-sale items, for being a student & providing my student ID.

Have you found any killer style deals?  Where are your favorite places to shop for fun extras like these?  Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: My Favorite Leggings for $8 @Target!

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I was recently in the market for some leggings, pre-emptively preparing for an upcoming trip to Italy.  I’m probably one of the last twenty-somethings on the planet to embrace leggings, but it was a hard battle since I’m an avid skirt/dress kind of Style Darling.  I mean, Charlotte York never wore leggings, with possibly the exception of that 80s flashback in the movie’s sequel.

I’d wear the leggings as the easiest-to-pack form of pajama bottoms & go-to legwear with a sweater dress & boots, making travel easier & more versatile.  I didn’t have very much success with jeggings (it’s totally my shape, but I’m really okay with this!).  Therefore, I was hoping that an all-black cotton legging would solve the problem that I was having with my thighs looking like two giant wads of sausages attached to my hips.  Anyway, since I was on the hunt, I found @Target a pair of long leggings ($8.00) by Mossimo Supply Co..  The price was too good to turn down!

After I found the comfort & movability in the leggings, I wanted to buy another pair or two as backup for when I go away since I’d rather keep one for sleeping in & another to wear out with a tunic top or long sweater.  I couldn’t find any more in the store in black (although they’re also available in heather gray), much to my dismay, but ventured onto the website & ordered the long pair.  If you’re into the capri-length leggings, they’re also $8.00, but what I would suggest if you’re seriously thinking about getting them, buy them one size bigger.  After all, Mossimo is a Juniors’ brand for the retail giant.

The website offers free shipping for purchases over $50.  I searched high & low for some extra little items like tights, socks, & underwear that could be necessities to help avoid paying the extra shipping cost; however, I found a darling black sweater dress which made my purchase over the required minimum for free shipping.  As it turns out, just like I thought, the dress just didn’t look quite right & I can return it to my local Target store, with receipt & all. I ended up saving myself the shipping cost & get back the $30+ amount which I laid out for a short amount of time on the unsuccessful dress.

Since I know that the Target in which I frequent is so local, I’m not wasting any gas to get there.  I was trying to avoid paying for a shipping & handling free, but end up saving that cash when I got for my weekly yogurt run.  I’ve since received the two pair of leggings & am overjoyed to start thinking about all the fabulous outfits that I can make with them… but I now just have to find the right pair of slouchy boots so that I can look chic while walking through the Gucci Museum in Florence in January.  I still can’t get over the fact that I was wearing (affordble & comfortable, yet low on the totem pole) sneakers from Payless when I visited the Salvatore Ferragamo museum when I was last in Florence.

Do you wear leggings?  If so, how do you like to wear them?  How many pairs do you own?  Where do you find the best leggings? Do you think the leggings trend is coming to an end? Happy Styling!