4/01/2013 Darling Of The Day: Taylor Swift’s Preppy & Cozy Sweater Look In NYC!


During a recent stay in New York City, country crooner Taylor Swift exited her hotel in a black long-sleeved cable knit sweater, cropped burgundy trousers, lace-up flats, & a leather tote bag. The usually feminine singer / songwriter shows off her preppy style, despite not having received the memo that spring is in the air. Of course there are just a few chilly days left in New York, but it’s not joke (on April Fool’s Day) that Taylor’s look is classic, effortless, & easy to pull off.

To put together an affordable version of this outfit, I selected the Sonoma life + style cable knit sweater ($19.99) in black from Kohl’s, which can also be mixed with a pastel pleated skirt, or worn over a floral sheath dress. Also, the Marisa straight leg pants ($26.93) in empire red from LOFT can offset softer pieces like a silk ruffled blouse, sequined tank & boyfriend blazer, & solid tee with a statement necklace. The accessories are perfect for any season, including the H-Trosuer flats ($59.95) in black from Steve Madden, faux leather zip pocket tote ($45.00) in orange from Dress Barn, & floral square sunglasses ($5.80) from Forever 21.

What do you think of Taylor’s look? Do you like mixing menswear pieces to your everyday outfits? Are you shopping for loafer flats for the spring? For more Darling of the Day posts, check out Drew Barrymore’s look during her recent appearance on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Revenge actress Ashley Madekwe’s black & white ensemble, Nikki Reed’s chic take on menswear, & Diane Kruger’s Stella McCartney pants in Berlin! Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes For Less: Kim Kardashian’s Silver Jimmy Choo Pumps!


Fashion critics & bloggers have been on the look out for Kim Kardashian‘s pregnancy style, which has included lots of pencil skirts, body conscious dresses, & empire-waisted looks to show off her growing shape & glow. Kim is never one to turn away from a high heel, & during a recent appearance in New York City, she donned the Anouck metallic leather pumps ($650.00) by Jimmy Choo from Saks Fifth Avenue. Not every expectant mom-to-be would be so bold as to keep up their pre-baby bump style with such confidence & sophistication.

Of course, that’s a heft price to pay for silver pumps, but the neutral metallic trend is coming back for spring, especially when paired with bright neons, soft pastels, & edgy embellished pieces. I recently shared a pic on Instagram featuring a shoe find in the latest issue of Harper’s Bazaar of a killer pair of silver pointy toe heels, but I also found several options at lower price points for any budget.

This includes the Stuart Weitzman Daisy pumps ($335.00) from Zappos, Joe’s Jeans Delores pumps ($109.99) from 6PM, the pointed toe pump ($47.94) from Express, & the most affordable are the pointed hologram pumps ($24.80) from Forever 21. All of these are sexy additions to upgrade a jeans & blouse look for day, modernize a lace LBD, or satin shorts & a blazer for a night out with the girls.

For more celebrity-related posts, check out the latest in florals inspired by Selena Gomez & Dianna Agron, Drew Barrymore’s recent look on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, the red carpet from the 2013 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, Marion Cotillard’s latest Lady Dior ad campaign, & Beyoncé’s debut as spokesmodel for H&M! Happy Styling!

Show Me The Shoes / Color Me Style: Mint Is Back For Spring!


During this spring break, I’ve had plenty of time studying the latest spring trends & aside from bold bright, you can find plenty of pastels, including mint shoes that will make any outfit look fresh & spring-ready. After a recent conversation with an engaged friend about the difference between turquoise & teal for her upcoming nuptials, I was inspired to share the color mint. Of course this hue can be seen on dresses, blouses, pants, & accessories, but more importantly, I’m loving the idea of mint shoes, especially since there are so many affordable shoes.

mint shoesAdd mint to your flats collection with the Merona Macha wedge ballet flat ($19.50) from Target, which have a classic faux snake texture with any effortless tee & skinny jeans. Also, the canvas Bella skimmer ($19.50) from Delia’s offers a lighter material to contrast with a neutral leather mini & sleeveless button-down. If you’re headed to a tropical location on vacation before summer, the Steve Madden Swinger sandals ($49.95) is perfect for a maxi dress & stacked bangles, a cotton spring dress with a beaded necklace, or with walking shorts & a silky blouse.

This wouldn’t a proper shoe post if I didn’t talk about some major budget-friendly heels, like the patent cap toe platform pump ($32.50) from Charlotte Russe, which transitions the cap toe trend perfectly between seasons. The GOjane peep toe platform wedges ($24.95) are edgy for a look with leggings & a tunic top, & they’re on sale right now! Next, bring mint to the office with the Fioni Jordyn t-strap pumps ($26.99) from Payless coordinated with a floral sheath dress & a cardigan, or for happy hour with a polka dot blouse & pencil skirt.

The peep toe platform wedge ($32.80) from Forever 21 is chic for a weekend getaway in a chambray dress or with neutral separates like a beige cami with silky pajama-inspired pants. Lastly, DSW‘s Fergalicious Eileen pump ($39.95) is definitely a must-have for a date night in a shift dress or can dress up any outfit like a mini leather skirt & graphic tee if you’re headed to a concert.

Which style is your favorite? Do you like the mint shoe trend? What colors are your mist attracted to this fall? For more posts from Show Me The Shoes, check out floral-inspired shoes from Forever 21 & Gap, luxury look-alike studded Jimmy Choo loafers, how to find affordable platforms like Nikki Reed’s at her recent red carpet appearance, & a behind-the-scenes look with J. Crew’s Jenna Lyons on their latest shoe collection! Happy Styling!

Basics For A Bargain: It’s Finally Spring & Finally Time For Florals!


There’s still a chill in the air here in New York, but it’s finally starting to look like spring. There’s change in the air & I know I’m really excited about it- & not just for my change in wardrobe. However, speaking of spring fashions, the go-to print of the season is florals & I couldn’t turn my back the trend, especially when I’ve been seeing it everywhere! For example, A-list celebs have been wearing florals even during the winter, ushering in the warmer season. Miranda Kerr is all smiles in a floral skirt with a leather Prada tote while taking in the day in Sydney. Elizabeth Olsen mixed her floral top with a mustard coat & skinny jeans. Actress Diane Kruger attended a press event for Farewell, My Queen in a 10 Crosby Derek Lam ensemble.

Miranda Kerr, Elizabeth Olsen, Diane Kruger, Selena Gomez, Jessica Chastain, & Dianna Agron.

Superstar Selena Gomez hit the SXSW Festival in a matching bustier & skirt by Dolce & Gabbana. Two-time Oscar nominee Jessica Chastain wears an Erdem sheath dress with nude Christian Louboutins. Lastly, former Glee star Dianna Agron attended a luncheon with The Hollywood Reporter in an Oday Shakar floral dress with suede Jimmy Choo heels.

Not to mention that there have been plenty of florals hitting the runways this year, including luxe vintage from Valentino, 80s-inspired rocker chic designs from Betsey Johnson, youthful & bright patterns from Tracy Reese, Lanvin‘s elegant & sophistication, & Erdem‘s playful & refreshing angle on flowers.

Valentino, Betsey Johnson, Tracy Reese, Lanvin, & Erdem.

Whether it’s on clothing, accessories, or mixed & match (which I only recommend doing with caution), I made a few selections from some of my favorite stores to share how you can wear the latest floral pieces on a budget! The best piece to start building the perfect spring wardrobe is a dress, like the Merona sleeveless tulip wrap dress ($19.00) from Target, which has recently been marked down from its original $24.99 price. The flattering wrap shape is perfect for accentuating your shape & the navy background adds a regal touch is paired with basketweave espadrilles or bright ballet flats. Next is the LC Lauren Conrad floral ruffle tank ($25.20) from Kohl’s, which is a feminine topper piece to wear with dark denim jeans, white skinny pants, or a denim skirt.

Don’t be afraid of florals on your bottom half, especially with the 4 1/2″ belted printed flat front shorts ($32.94) from Express, which add some tropical flair to your look & will dress down a lace blouse. I love the idea of sequins with florals & this skirt ($34.95) from H&M is a stylish marriage of both. This will pair nicely with a chambray button down shirt for a fashionable day out & about or with a solid pullover & pointy toe pumps for a date. Lastly, floral pants are also one of the biggest trends this season, especially in a looser cut to provide plenty of flow & movement, which is why I choose the Full Tilt skinny harem pants ($24.99) from Tilly’s. The chic black, gray, & white color combination is understated & can be coordinated with pastel pieces like coral or mint.

As for accessories, these bright colors will make your outfit pop, especially since they’re so effortless to match with wardrobe essentials. For example, the sequin tulip print pumps ($27.80) from Forever 21 are flirty & will add extra dimension to cuffed jeans & a ruffled top. Also, for a more subtle floral shoe, the novelty ballet flats ($39.95) from Gap. The soft pink & red tones in the shoe can offset any striped tee & jeans look in a ladylike way.

Part of what I love about spring is that I can still wear scarves, which can bring a lot to a look, like the ground floral scarf ($14.99) from Payless for a denim jacket & LBD with ankle strap platforms or a maxi dress & cargo vest with gladiator flats. Lastly, I’m not really a hat kind of girl, but in some cases, you need to protect your face from the harsh rays of the sun, especially this early in the season, which is why I picked the pop floral baseball cap ($8.99) from Charlotte Russe.

What do you think about the latest floral trend? Which pieces would you wear? What’s your spring wardrobe budget? For more affordable fashion posts, check out how to get Drew Barrymore’s latest look without breaking the bank, suede studded loafers, the best green pieces for spring, a budget-friendly spring look with pieces from Old Navy & American Eagle Outfitters. Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes For Less: Studded Loafers By Jimmy Choo Vs. Forever 21!


During my recent ventures out & about, discovering the trends for spring, I was surprised to see that menswear-inspired loafers had made a comeback, but with Style Darlings like Alexa Chung, Sienna Miller, & Kirsten Dunst spotted in them, I knew this trend wasn’t going away. I’ve yet to add some loafers to my shoe collection, but details like studding over a suede surface seem to be the most popular. I was pleasantly surprised to find these shoes at so many different price point & knew that I just had to include it in my latest Luxury Look-Alikes For Less post!

I’m certainly not endorsing the disappearance of ballet flats, but I love the idea of mixing such a masculine shape to feminine pieces, like a silk blouse & lace shorts or to dress down an LBD with a blazer & colorful tights. Today’s selection includes the Jimmy Choo wheel studded suede loafers ($475.00) in black from Neiman Marcus, which is of course a hefty price to pay for shoes, but if you’re looking for the quality of a luxury brand, by all means, break out the big bucks. However, for those like me who are always shopping on a budget, I recommend the studded canvas slip-on loafers ($24.50) in black from Charlotte Russe, which are also available in white, yellow, pale blue, & pink to fulfill all of your loafer needs. Not to mention that if you’re shopping in a Charlotte Russe store & have a student ID (high school or college), you can earn an extra 10% off your purchase (some exclusions may apply).

Loafers seem to be the best way to transition your wardrobe from winter to spring & I’m sure when we’re headed from summer to fall, the same will apply. Also, the studding embellishments add an extra metallic accent & will contrast nicely with lace, leather, or printed separates in your look. Are you on board with the loafer trend? Would you consider adding this style to your current shoe collection for spring? For more shoe-related posts, check out affordable shoes in emerald, Kate Moss for Stuart Weitzman, behind-the-scenes with J. Crew’s Jenna Lyons, & my favorite new stilettos from Forever 21! Happy Styling!

3/24/2013 Darling Of The Day: Revenge Actress Ashley Madekwe’s Mulberry Look On A Budget!


I’ve been getting really inspired lately by all of the fabulous ensemble looks that celebrities are donning on the red carpet & for special events. Case in point: Revenge actress & style blogger, Ashley Madekwe, at a dinner in Los Angeles for the English brand Mulberry.

Spring is (sort of) in the air & I can’t wait to let go of heavy knits & layers, so that I can start to embrace lighter & softer fabrics to pair with sandals! There’s so much about this outfit that I love, including the mod black & white color scheme. The clean & classic color combination is always sensational for any age & shape if you’re on your way to a special occasion. The peplum look isn’t going away & it’s especially perfect for spring if you’d like to add feminine, figure-hugging details to your wardrobe. Not to mention that printed pants & jeans are so hot right now & can work for a variety of looks while at the office, going on a date, or headed out with friends.

To start, I found the Green Envelope 3/4 sleeve peplum top ($34.99) from Loehmann’s, which I realize isn’t short-sleeved like what Ashley is wearing, but the price is pretty amazing for such a fashionable staple that will look great with a pencil skirt, dark denim jeans, & leather leggings. Also, the Copper Key animal-print ankle pant ($17.40) from Dillard’s is practically identical to the luxury brand. The accessories that I choose include DSW‘s Mia Bennet reptile pump ($54.95) in black, the Apt. 9 Emma Satchel ($39.99) in white from Kohl’s, & the lacquered diamond shaped earrings ($3.80) from Forever 21.

Would you wear leopard print pants? Do you like Ashley’s outfit? What are your must-haves this season? For more posts featuring celebrity style, check out Nikki Reed’s menswear look for less, Amanda Seyfried & Jessica Alba’s recent red carpet appearances, the neon trend as seen on Freida Pinto & Kristen Stewart, & the stylish ladies of Oz the Great and Powerful. Happy Styling!

3/22/2013 Darling Of The Day: Nikki Reed’s Embellished Blouse Look For Less!


This week, actress Nikki Reed, of The Twilight Saga fame, hit up Justin Timberlake‘s Target-sponsored release party for his latest album, The 20 / 20 Experience, in a long-sleeved white blouse with stud embellishments on the collar, curve-hugging black skinny pants, towering platforms, & added a bright pop of color with a turquoise clutch. Her look is hitting all the right notes here & I love the simplicity in her menswear-inspired outfit with some trendy touches that any Style Darling can pull off. The prove my point, I went seraching for similar items to complete an affordable outfit that a woman of any size can sport.

This includes the pyramid stud collar blouse ($22.80) from Forever 21, as well as their plus size studded collar Georgette top ($24.80), which is available in sizes XL – 2XL. Both of these tops can work perfectly with a textured pencil skirt at the office, under a blazer with leather leggings for a girl’s night out, or with dark denim jeans & ballet flats for a chic day out on the town. I turned to Old Navy for the bottoms & happily found the Diva skinny jeans ($29.50) in Black Jack, which are sold in sizes 0-20, with short, regular, & tall inseams, & in different washes including dawn, authentic, & rinse. Of course we know that the darker the wash, the better the look, but I’m always excited to share Old Navy’s selection in sizes when it comes to staples like skinny jeans!

As for shoes, I included two options: the nubuck platforms ($24.70) in black from GOjane, as well as PaylessBrash Kosmic platform pumps ($24.99) in black, which is a wide width option for those who have difficulty fitting in narrower shoes. I also added two clutch bags since I wasn’t able to find a studded match for the one that Nikki carries, but I loved the contrasting textures & color combination found in  Duro Olowu‘s snakeskin foldover clutch ($30.00) @JC Penney, as well as the simplicity of a patent exterior with Charlotte Russe‘s textured patent envelope wristlet ($12.99) in teal.

Lastly, the final touch to this look is Nikki’s rings which are always a fun way to accessorize any outfit, especially when there are so many subtle details like the collar & on the bag, which is why I thought the Jennifer Lopez silver tone simulated crystal stack ring set ($16.80) from Kohl’s was a good investment if you like to mix up your digit decorations.

While the combination of pieces comes to just over $100, this is still an affordable look inspired by a celebrity on the red carpet. For more red carpet fashion ideas, check out previous posts including the latest Top 10 Celeb Sightings gallery featuring Stacy Keibler & Jessica Alba, neon looks as seen on Beyoncé & Kristen Stewart, the ladies of Oz the Great and Powerful on their stylish press tour, & a complete look at this year’s Oscars red carpet! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Get These Green Pieces For St. Patrick’s Day!


A friend of mine recently asked me what the big color for spring was going to be & from my research & observation of trends, I saw that emerald green was getting to be very popular, amid the rise in pretty pastels & trendy neons. Nearly everyone looks great in emerald, so I thought, what better day to talk about some amazing emerald pieces than on St. Patrick’s Day!

I know when I’m putting a look together, I usually stick to classic black & white pieces, but there’s nothing better than a special pop of color, especially when it comes to green. First, the Merona 3/4 sleeve v-neck cardigan sweater ($19.99) from Target is the perfect topper to any polka dots, graphic print, or houndstooth sheath dress for both the office & a family party. Speaking of dresses, I love the stretch cotton skater dress ($27.93) from Express (which is currently on sale for 30% off) & the AB Studio lace sheath dress ($25.60) from Kohl’s (which has recently been reduced from its original $64.00 price). Both are reasonably priced & can work for any season if paired with cork wedges or even opaque tights & a boyfriend blazer.

If you prefer separates, then try H&M‘s blouse ($12.95) which can be worn knotted with skinny jeans & sneaker wedges for a casual day out & about, or untucked over some rocker chic leather leggings & metallic pointy toe pumps when headed out with the girls. Also, I recommend the Diva skinny ankle pants ($29.94) from Old Navy to be worn with a cable knit sweater for a preppy look or a flirty blouse & ballet flats when meeting gal pals for a luncheon. Not to mention that Old Navy has a special 17% off coupon code (ONLUCKY) which can be used on almost any online only purchase.

Add green accessories into the mix with some jewelry like the bubble bead statement necklace ($12.99) from Charlotte Russe, which is having a sitewide 20% off sale today, online only! Also, there’s Forever 21‘s iridescent arrowhead drop earrings ($4.80), which can be worn with a modern LBD & strappy sandals, or made exotic for your next vacation in a maxi dress & basketweave wedges.

I always love green in multi-color patterns too, which is why I selected the bright geometric scarf ($19.95) from New York & Company to wear with a denim jacket & jersey skirt while shopping, or to dress up any solid pullover & dark denim jeans. Lastly, you can’t talk about green without mentioning shoes & there are so many ways to wear the Worthington Pennie faux suede ballet flats ($28.00) from JC Penney like with a pair of neutral trousers & button-down shirt. Also, there’s the PaylessAmerican Eagle sweetheart high wedge sling ($24.99) with a cotton wrap dress or a chambray tunic & colored denim shorts.

How do you like to wear green? Do you wear green on St. Patrick’s Day? Which are your favorite pieces? What’s your budget for new spring-friendly fashions? For more posts on affordable fashion, check out a budget-friendly spring look for under $100, the complete lookbook of Kate Young’s collection for Target, colorful crossbody bags for under $15.00, neon looks inspired by Beyoncé Knowles & Jennifer Lopez, chic spring break must-haves, & how to wear yellow like Emmy Rossum & Miranda Kerr! Happy Styling!

The $100 Challenge: Spring Into A Budget-Friendly Dress Look!


‘Tis the season to be pretty! There are hints of spring everywhere & I even see flowers starting to pop up out of the ground, which means that it’s time to start considering the new & bright pieces for our wardrobe. This includes cotton dresses, wedges, lightweight cardigans, & baring some skin from under the heavy layers of winter. I was clicking through the Old Navy website, which is when I found the striped fit & flare dress ($20.00) in black & white, which is also available in creme caramel.

I knew this look deserved a pop of color, which is why I added the peep toe wedges ($24.90) in green from Forever 21 & American Eagle Outfitter‘s perforated crossbody bag ($19.99) in lemon yellow. Both pieces are perfect to mix & match with other wardrobe staples like dark denim jeans & a ruffled blouse, a graphic tee & mini skirt, or wrap dress & ballet flats.

To complete the look, I headed to LOFT for the dot haircalf skinny belt ($20.99), which is on sale 30% off with no code needed after its already reduced price. I love the idea of matching stripes & polka dots for a truly feminine look, so I wanted to keep with a black accent in the outfit with Forever 21‘s teardrop rhinestone earrings ($5.80). Lastly, the 4-pack bracelet ($7.95) from H&M is a fun way of adding some personality with the layers of chains, studs, & rhinestones.

The total for this look comes to $99.53 (before taxes) & can make for a wonderfully feminine look for a variety of occasions. Try this dress with a blazer to play up the juxtaposition of its softness with some menswear-inspiration, or consider adding the belt with a floral wrap dress & slingback heels. For more posts on affordable fashion, check out previous posts like Kate Young’s new collection for Target, neon looks inspired by Chloe Grace Moretz & Kristen Stewart, spring break-ready must-haves, sexy stilettos for under $30, how to save on the pink skinny jeans trend, all-white ensembles as seen on Rooney Mara & Nicole Richie, & Lauren Conrad’s latest spring collection for Kohl’s. Happy Styling!

Ad Madness / Watch This Style: Kate Moss Stars In Mario Testino’s Latest Ad For Stuart Weitzman!


Kate Moss for Stuart Weitzman

Kate Moss is still one of the busiest & most in-demand supermodels & she’s clearly never looked better. The face of fashion is now also the face of Stuart Weitzman. Of course the sleek shoe designs speak for themselves, including the above Naughty pump ($335.00) in silver specchio, which Kate dons in a new video shot by the one & only Mario Testino. The futuristic classic pumps are chic & the patent leather exterior can dress up mod sheath dresses, add some flair to skinny jeans, & make a basic LBD more contemporary. Watch the video below for 25 seconds of shoe love.

For more celebrity campaigns, check out previous posts in Ad Madness, including Jennifer Lawrence’s debut Dior ads, Evan Rachel Wood & Chris Evans for Gucci Guilty Black, Kate Upton’s shoot for Sam Edelman shoes, & behind-the-scenes with Rachel Weisz for Bvlgari! Also, check out the James Franco-directed video short for Stuart Weitzman starring model Petra Nemcova! Happy Styling!

Show Me The Shoes: The Stylish Story Behind J. Crew’s Latest Shoe Collection!


I’ve been hearing lots of great buzz behind J. Crew‘s newest Italian-made shoe collection & now, I get it. Of course, I always have lots of love for all things shoes, but watching the video below brings me back to the Salvatore Ferragamo museum in Italy. So, for all you shoe lovers out there, this is definitely a post for you! When checking out more from the collection, I learned that these aren’t necessarily affordable shoes for every Style Darling on a budget, but there’s always something to learn from all ends of the retail / fashion spectrum. The line, which is produced in Pisa, Italy, ranges in price between $125 – $378, which is pretty steep, but when you hear the brand’s creative director, Jenna Lyons, talk about the love, artistry, & legacy that goes into producing the incredible footwear, it all begins to make sense.

Anyone who thinks that a shoe isn’t informative about who you are is making a mistake,” says Lyons & that couldn’t be more on the nose! She adds, “There’s a sense of sparkle in a shoe, & I don’t mean the sparkle like sequins. I mean, you know, add a little extra…Shoes are like fairies, like that sort of little magical piece that finishes everything. I can throw on a silver, five-inch-heel pump, and all of a sudden, I feel a little bit prettier.

What do you think of J. Crew’s footwear collection? Do these styles speak to your fashionable senses? How much would you be willing to spend on a killer pair of pumps? For more shoe-related inspiration, check out previous posts from Show Me The Shoes including trendy neon shoes, spring break-ready wedges, sexy crisscross stilettos from Forever 21, & 4 ideas for dressing up a graphic tee! Happy Styling!

Color Me Style: Spring Into Neon Yellow This Season!


Last month I blogged about neon blouses at different price points, sharing the big neon trend that will help Style Darling transition from winter to spring. I’ve seen so much in stores lately in neons, especially in the highlighter yellow variety in tops, dresses, pants, skirts, & accessories, which are perfect for mixing with essentials like dark denim jeans, crisp white pieces, & other bold separates.

Neons have been on the rise for quite a while now, especially on the red carpet & seen on celebrities on the street. This includes Indian beauty Freida Pinto in a lace Atelier Versace peplum gown at the Cannes Film Festival. Also, Jennifer Lopez‘s honey-hued glow looks even more chic in a long-sleeved Michael Kors sheath dress with hot pink pumps by Casadei. Hollywood it-girl Chloe Grace Moretz was all smiles at the People’s Choice Awards in a floral Simone Rocha party dress with black ankle-strap pumps.

Freida Pinto, Jennifer Lopez, CHloe Moretz, Kristen Stewart, & Beyonce Knowles.

At last summer’s Comi-Con, Twilight actress Kristen Stewart mixed a neon BCBG Max Azria skirt with a cropped tee & leather Barbara Bui high tops. Beyoncé knew about the neon trend a few years ago when she hit the streets of Manhattan with neon accessories, including a straw hat & ankle-strap platform sandals with an over-sized tank & grey shorts.

One thing to keep in mind when it comes to neons is that you must wear them in moderation. I did recently show neon yellow in a head-to-toe monochromatic look in a Basics for a Bargain post, however these separates & dresses are perfect for any style. For example, the Prabal Gurung ruffle dress ($39.99) & Mossimo ponte colorblock v-neck dress ($27.99) from Target are timeless & affordable essentials to wear at the office with a blazer or for date night with some textured pumps. Also, Expresssplit back dolman sweater ($23.94), Forever 21‘s contrast racerback trapeze tank ($6.80), & New York & Company‘s two-pocket blouse ($20.00) are cute, affordable, & versatile tops to mix with patterned pants, colorful jeans, or neutral pencil skirts. The varying neon hues from bright & bold to soft & near-pastel are elegant & modern.  

Next, the cropped high rise trousers ($19.80) from Forever 21 are ideal for elongating the legline if you dare to wear neon on your bottom half. Also, for a softer look with neon, I recommend the Worthington colorblocked pleated skirt ($25.00) from JC Penney for a white scoop neck tee or a lacy button-down blouse. You always see celebs wearing shorts & the H&M shorts ($29.95) can work for both casual & dressy occasions, if paired with pointy toe heels, ballet flats, or a sleeveless top.

As for accessories, a neon pop of color is always a great choice. Bags that I just couldn’t resist sharing are the Nine West tech mini cross body bag ($19.95) from DSW & H&M‘s clutch ($24.95). Not to mention chic jewelry pieces like the BCBGeneration Le Piaget neon & crystals stretch bracelet ($24.99) from 6PM & enamel coated stretch ring ($6.00) from Charlotte Russe can turn a day look into something ready for cocktail hour. Lightweight gauzy scarves are always fun to consider with your casual look when you’re running errands or headed out shopping with girlfriends, which is why I picked the plaid scarf ($29.95) from Gap to wear with a denim jacket, leather bomber, or twill blazer.

We can’t talk about neon without mentioning shoes, which are always my favorite part of an outfit! I selected the Prabal Gurung pointy toe pump ($39.99) from Target, neon cap toe ballet flats ($19.99) from American Eagle Outfitters, & Forever 21‘s neon strap platform sandals ($26.80).

What do you think about the neon trend? Would you wear it? Do you like the pieces of clothing or prefer the accessories? Which trends are you following this season? For more posts on affordable fashion, check out spring must haves from Old Navy & Payless, stylish stilettos from Forever 21, all-white looks inspired by Kerry Washington & Emmy Rossum, stylish stud earrings for any occasion, & the latest collection for Kohl’s by Lauren Conrad! Happy Styling!

The $100 Challenge: Chic Spring Break Must-Haves For Your Next Vacation!


The weather outside is pretty nasty here on Long Island & while I’m trying to keep my head up & attitude positive, I know with the recent personal trials that I’ve been through, I need a vacation. Unfortunately, I’m not in the position to do so, but a girl can dream when there are still some shreds of dreams left to ponder. Also, after some inspiring messaging with another Style Darling, I decided to just throw myself into the online retail forum & find some amazing & affordable pieces, perfect for a Spring Break vacation or much-needed warm-weather getaway in my latest post for The $100 Challenge.

Whenever the temperature rises, it’s always stylish to add a maxi dress to your wardrobe, which is why I picked out the chiffon tribal print maxi dress ($16.80) from Forever 21, which can be dressed up with beaded earrings & platform sandals, or made day-ready with a chunky leather belt & gladiators. I also always love checking out the latest in spring shoes, which includes the Brash Molly side t-strap wedge sandal ($19.99) in black from Payless. They’re also available in coral, gold, & white- perfect for mixing with a cotton spring dress, cropped pants & a blouse, or with cut-off jeans & a graphic tee. When spring rolls around, I’m happy to switch out my heavy wool & knit scarves for something lighter & more feminine, like the daisy print infinity scarf ($9.99) from Charlotte Russe to wear with basics like a cotton tee & denim jacket.

The $100 Challenge

Don’t forget that spring & vacations are all about embracing bright colors & while I’m not one to wear shorts myself, I love the shorts ($12.95) in red from H&M, which are also sold in powder pink, black, white, blue, pink, & yellow. For a nautical feel to your look, I recommend the striped roll-tab scoop neck tee ($13.47) in blue from New York & Company, which are a limited quantity item, reduced from their original $26.95 price tag. Also, florals are very popular this time of year, so if you’re headed somewhere chic, the a.n.a. ankle-length skinny jeans ($14.00) in all over floral from JC Penney are great for coordinating with different prints like stripes, polka dots, or plaids. Lastly, for some sparkle with versatility, I choose Old Navy‘s sheer sequin-chiffon tank ($11.99) in pink to wear with satin shorts & platforms for a night out with the girls, dark denim jeans & ballet flats for brunch, or a pencil skirt & boyfriend blazer when headed to an office meeting.

All of this also considers a $100 budget & the total for these comes to $99.19 (before taxes), which is pretty awesome for any Style Darling on a budget. Which pieces are your favorites? Which trends are you following to revamp your spring wardrobe? How much are you willing to spend on essentials for the new season? For more posts on affordable fashion, check out fabulous neon criss cross stilettos from Forever 21, 4 fashionable ways to wear a graphic tee from Old Navy, varying price points on trendy pink jeans, my latest bargain shoe purchases from Target, & floral pants inspired by Diane Kruger’s Stella McCartney look! Happy Styling!

Show Me The Shoes: Crisscross Stiletto Sandals From Forever 21!


Retail therapy has been proven to cause endorphins of joy, feelings of success, & stress relief (or so I’ve heard & experienced), which is why women often turn to shopping in times of need. This little Style Darling apologizes for the inconsistency in new blog updates, thus breaking my New Year’s Resolution for sharing posts with readers everyday for 2013, but while I’m coping with the hardships behind a broken heart, I’m eager to get back on the horse & try to find some inspiration, even if it’s just in a pair of shoes. When clicking around the web, I found myself on the Forever 21 website & came across the crisscross stiletto sandals ($29.80) in black, tomato, & citron.

Forever 21 - Crisscross Stiletto Sandal $29.80

Of course these colors range from basic to flirty to bold, but they can work for a variety of occasions, including a night out with the girls in a sheath dress, with skinny jeans & a blouse for a weekend luncheon, or for happy hour cocktails with co-workers when you want to slip out of your regular office attire & into something more casual, yet dressed up. I’ve never been one to add a lot of texture or coverage over my ankles, fearing that it would cut off my legline, but I’m really drawn to the juxtaposition of a really sexy, slim heel that will emphasize any feminine outfit, especially with a rear zipper & faux suede outsole. The strong & edgy feel will sharpen any menswear-inspired pieces & can work for any season. Naturally, neons are big for spring & summer, but if you’re into a classic shoe, there’s always a sleek black pair.

What do you think of these shoes? Which color would you choose? Do you like the crisscross detail? How much do you like to spend on shoes when shopping on a budget? For more Show Me The Shoes posts, check out affordable footwear including how to wear flats, heels, & booties with a graphic tee, my latest shoe purchases from Target, Christian Siriano’s latest arrivals for Payless, & Rachel Zoe’s collaboration with ShoeDazzle. Happy Styling!

Fabulous In 4 Ways: An Old Navy Graphic Tee For Day, Weekend, Date, & Cocktail!


There’s so much going on in fashion right now & all of the latest spring styles have been hitting retailers, which means that it’s time to consider how you can revamp your wardrobe for the upcoming season. One trick that I recently experimented with was how to dress up a graphic tee for more than just a day look, which is the inspiration behind my latest Fabulous in 4 Ways post. I’m always drawn to pretty t-shirts with fashion-related designs, something Parisian, or a classic Hello Kitty print, however the watercolor-graphic v-neck tee ($14.94) in lodge khaki from Old Navy caught my eye for its modern look over a neutral hue. I’ve decided to share how to style this top for day, weekend, date, & cocktail, ranging in price from $83.52 – $133.48.

For the day look, I loved bringing out fun colors like the 1969 always skinny jeans ($21.99) in lemon meringue from Gap & pairing it with the Christian Siriano Camile bow flat ($26.99) in dark green from Payless. Of course there’s always dark denim as an option, but I loved the neutrality of the tabbed sleeve jacket ($22.50) in Olive from Wet Seal. For an extra splash of style, I picked the 1928 jet-tone filigree teardrop earrings ($5.00) from Kohl’s, which will dress up any casual look & even work with a sheath or LBD for a night out on the town.

When you’re headed away for the weekend, consider comfortable options like the Mossimo Supply Co. bootcut denim ($22.99) in dark wash from Target. To add some extra height to this already casual chic look, I love the basic longline cardigan ($12.80) in black from Forever 21, which gives that boyfriend-sweater menswear look, especially when paired with the Michael Antonio Mallory bootie ($24.99) in black from Piperlime. Lastly, the tribal style bangle set ($7.80) in gold / dark brown from Forever 21 highlight the colors in the graphic tee & bring some extra personality to the whole ensemble.

On the flipside, experiment with this graphic tee, or any printed top for a cocktail look with the feminine skirt ($29.95) in black from H&M & edgy Jacquez jacket ($24.98) in jet black from G by Guess. To contrast the softness of the watercolor butterflies, I choose Charlotte Russe‘s spiked zip-back sueded pumps ($38.50) in black, which complimented the two tone chevron statement necklace ($12.90) from Windsor Store.

A date night look is the perfect opportunity for dressing up a graphic tee, especially when there are options like The Limited‘s silver & rose gold sequin jacket ($49.99) with the faux leather moto leggings ($39.80) in black from Forever 21. Sexy accessories for this look include the sparkling geo drop earrings ($4.80) in black / gold, also from Forever 21, as well as the patent faux leather pumps ($23.95) in black from GOjane, which have been recently marked down.

For more posts on affordable fashion, check out how to find the best bargain-priced pink jeans, look-alike floral Stella McCartney pants as seen on Diane Kruger, clearance heels & flats from Target, winter white looks inspired by Nicole Richie & Taylor Swift, Lauren Conrad’s latest Kohl’s collection, & Christian Siriano’s newest designs for Payless. Happy Styling!

Inside A Style Blogger’s Closet: My New Any-Season Heels & Flats For Under $10 From Target!


I returned to work this week after a very eventful winter break & was happy to start wearing my newest bargain-priced purchases & even though I’ve been saving my pennies as a responsible adult, I still couldn’t help picking up a few must-have tops, skirts, dresses, & accessories. Among those recent wardrobe upgrades are two very “me” pairs of shoes that I was able to snag @Target. Hardly a week goes by where I’m not visiting the store & scouring through the clearance racks & when I had a $5 off on any $20 Mossimo brand purchase coupon, I knew it was going to burn a whole in my iPhone’s Target app!

Target - Mossimo Viveca Blingy Heel $28.04 in Emerald, Mossimo Ona Ballet Flat $14.99 in zebra.

After searching through the clothing racks & finding a cute orange & gold sequin sweater, as well as a grey crochet & neon encil skirt (both perfect for work!), I wandered over to the accessories & shoes to see if I could score anything else… & of course, I did! This included the Viveca blingy heel ($28.04) in emerald, which I was able to purchase for less than $10.00, as well as the Ona ballet flat ($14.99) in zebra, which was marked down on clearance for under $5.00. Of course the online prices are different from what’s going on in my local store, but these are can’t-miss end-of-the-season deals! My favorite color is green & I love any & everything zebra print, so this was a match made in shoe heaven!

For more shoe-related posts, check out Kate Upton’s latest ad campaign for Sam Edelman, 70% off clearance deals @Nine West, Christian Siriano’s latest arrivals for Payless, & Rachel Zoe’s styling collaboration with ShoeDazzle! Happy Styling!

Ad Madness / Show Me The Shoes: Kate Upton’s Latest Campaign For Sam Edelman Shoes!


Kate Upton for Sam Edelman

Model Kate Upton has been making headlines for breaking the rules of high fashion lately. The voluptuous Sports Illustrated model has recently scored a campaign deal for shoe designer, Sam Edelman, because photographer David Lipman says that “she isn’t thin,” according to WWD. While modeling strappy heels & sitting in a scattered sea of ballet flats, the blonde looks nothing short of amazing, certainly capturing “the spirit of youth & vitality.” Prices for the collection range between $60.00 – $150.00. To shop Sam Edelman shoes, check out Zappos, Nordstrom, 6PM, Heels.com, DSW, Bloomingdales, & Dillards.

For more celebrity ads, check out a behind-the-scenes look at Beyoncé’s Pulse NYC fragrance, Kate Hudson’s return to Ann Taylor, Raf Simons’ debut for Dior, & Natalie Portman’s Miss Dior Le Parfum commercial. Happy Styling!

Kate Upton for Sam Edelman

The $100 Challenge: Pastels, Polka Dots, & Pops Of Color!


The $100 ChallengeI’ve been up to earrings in fashion news lately, but I’ve definitely wanted to spend more time focusing on shopping tips for an affordably fashionable spring & that starts with pastel & neon jeans. I’ve yet to find a pair that works for me since I’m a little self-conscious about wearing the lighter & brighter hues on my curvier lower half, but the search isn’t over yet. One example that I need to pursue is the 1969 neon always skinny skimmer jeans ($21.99) in neon violet from Gap, which are also available in neon mint green. What I love about these is that they’re available in sizes 4-20.

I didn’t want to play down the fun color in the jeans, which is why I picked out the jumbo polka dot print shirt ($13.50) from Forever 21 & the ribbon & jewel bodyshaper tank ($8.00) in heather grey from New York & Company. Both pieces are perfect for mixing & layering with other basics like a pencil skirt, boyfriend jeans, or leggings.

For this look, I wanted to create a fashionable day outfit for any season, but with an extra punch of femininity & polish, which is why I picked PaylessLower East Side Chelsea flat ($16.99) in black glitter. Also, I picked these shoes since I know that they’re super comfortable b/c I own the gold version. They’re perfect for wearing a demure LBD with opaque tights, or casually with leather shorts & a crisp white shirt. Additional accessories include the Mudd Kara triple-zip cross body bag ($23.80) in lemon from Kohl’s, carved roses Parisian charm necklace ($8.50) from Claire’s, & Forever 21‘s lacquered rhinestone studs ($3.80).

To see more affordable looks, check out more posts from The $100 Challenge, including three all-black outfits, a black & silver look with pieces from The Limited & GOjane, how to dress up with black textured accessories, a striped & tweed cocktail ensemble, & a leopard print date-ready dress from Old Navy! Happy Styling!

Show Me The Shoes: Up To 70% Off Clearance Shoes @Nine West!


Retailers are still in that transition period between seasons, which means that it’s the perfect time to get your hands, or feet in this case, on clearance deals on shoe. More specifically, Nine West is clearing out their online shelves with deals up to 70% off on a sale shoes. These prices are perfect for wearing the redt of the winter, preparing for this coming spring / summer, & even wearing on an upcoming vacation.

Nine West

I picked the Leggy wedge ($39.99) in camel multi leopard, which is perfect to match with a belted neutral shirt dress or with your favorite denim shorts & blouse.  The Heartbeat pumps ($39.99) in purple are essential for upgrading any office look- not to mention, they’re also available in blue. I featured the Love Fury ($39.99) pumps in a post last year in Black Friday Sale Update, but in red, however both pairs are now reduced from their original $89.00 price. Lastly, since I’m a sucker for animal print & ankle booties, I just had to include the Haywire booties ($39.99) in natural multi pony, which are probably the best deal I’ve seen on the Nine West site since they’ve been marked down from $129.00!

How would you wear these shoes? Do you like to shop during the end-of-the-season deals? Which style of shoe is your favorite? Do you prefer classic leather shoes or like to experiment with textures? For more from Show Me The Shoes, check out posts including Payless’ new arrivals by Christian Siriano, Rachel Zoe’s ShoeDazzle collaboration, footwear from Prabal Gurung’s Target collection, & video about the shoes the stars wore to this year’s Golden Globes! Happy Styling!

Color Me Style: Hello Yellow For Winter & Spring, Inspired By Emmy Rossum, Miranda Kerr, Anna Kendrick, & More!


Yellow is one of those colors that’s always a little risky to wear out on the red carpet, but when it’s done right, it can look really spectacular.  Not to mention that the color is coming back for this season (following right behind emerald trends), which we’ve seen on some of today’s most stylish celebrities.  This includes former Grey’s Anatomy star, Nora Zehetner wore a minimalist Calvin Klein Collection sheath mini at a Metropolitan Museum of Art event last month. Lauren Conrad showed off her feminine side, as usual, in a bright Yoana Baraschi dress with suede neutral pumps. Actress Kate Mara looked stunning in a Dior shift dress at the London premiere of House of Cards with a suede box clutch by Nancy Gonzalez & satin peep toe pumps.

Nora Zehetner, Lauren Conrad, Kate Mara, Emmy Rossum, Anna Kendrick, & Jada Pinkett Smith.

Shameless star Emmy Rossum also donned Dior with a metallic minaudiere & strappy black sandals. For an interview on The Late Show with David Letterman, Anna Kendrick asymmetrical sheath dress by Halston Heritage is offset by nude peep toe pumps & jewelry by Dana Rebecca Designs. Lastly, during a recent appearance on Katie, Jada Pinkett Smith slipped into a curve-hugging Victoria Beckham dress with towering, patterned platform pumps.

It wasn’t heard to search the web for some cute & affordable yellow dresses to wear with your favorite evening shoes, collar necklaces, stacked bangles, or statement rings. Yellow dresses are also popular in pastels like the cutout ribbon back dress ($27.80) from Forever 21, which is described as “citron.” @Macy’s, the Bar III cap-sleeve seamed scoop neck dress ($29.99) is marked down from its original $69.00 price tag.  For a figure-flattering, sexy dress, the ASOS wrap front pencil dress ($56.29) is the perfection attention-grabbing option, especially is paired with strappy sandals, or belted & worn under a boyfriend blazer.

The Ark & Co ‘Swept Away’ strapless dress ($46.00) from Lulu’s is a pretty option, especially if you want to show off your décolletage with a spiked necklace & messy updo. Lastly, the Mossimo casual one-shoulder dress ($24.99) from Target is a flowy & flirty number to wear casually with gladiator flats when on vacation, or with a velvet bolero & textured tights.

Also, yellow separates really make an outfit pop, so if you’re wearing neutrals, this bright color can really work the value of basics like dark denim jeans, a black sweater, or a mini skirt. Take a cue from Olivia Palermo‘s wool-blend coat from Old Navy with leather leggings & oversized turtleneck. Also, supermodel Miranda Kerr tops off her casual look with a yellow blazer, perfect for a chic day out shopping. Kirsten Dunst played with yellow in her printed Stella McCartney separates at the premiere of The Bachelorette with ankle strap suede heels. 

Olivia Palermo, Miranda Kerr, Kirsten Dunst, Kim Kardashian, & Taylor Swift.

Kim Kardashian‘s colorblocked look made headlines, especially with her sophisticated Chloé blouse & mary jane Christian Louboutin platforms. Taylor Swift plays up her girl-next-door style in a pleated yellow skirt, also by Chloé, with a tucked in cable knit sweater & bowed ballet flats.

Get inspired to add some yellow thoughtfully to your look with these affordable pieces.  First, the Tinley Road Bleecker blazer ($39.99) from Piperlime is fun to wear over an LBD for the office, or to dress up a graphic tee & jeans with pointy toe pumps. You can head to Express to find the mesh inset blouson tee ($24.90) for floral pants, satin shorts & tights, or tucked into a brocade pencil skirt. Another top worth considering is the blouse ($29.95) from H&M to coordinate under an embellished cardigan, over a silk cami, or with a contrasting hue like red or cobalt jeans. Also, Piperlime‘s Greylin Viv ponte pencil skirt ($42.99) is a timeless basic to match with a printed top or classic & crisp button-down shirt.

Accessories in yellow aren’t hard to come by either… & there’s always a place in your look for this color. The embossed skinny belt ($14.99) from Coldwater Creek is currently half off & will add a special touch of texture to tweed or suede pieces. I also love the fringed drop earrings ($6.80) from Forever 21, which will work for an evening look with a cocktail dress & even bring out the personality of a tropical maxidress in the summer.

You can never go wrong with yellow shoes. I am the proud owner of at least three pair & I don’t mean that they’re gold- they range in the banana to mustard hues & I’ve found so many uses for them. I love the Steve Madden Rockkk flats ($29.99) from 6pm, which originally cost as high as $60.00 when they hit the market. Finally, for the shoe-lover out there, the Michael Antonio Tracey sandal ($29.94) from DSW offers a sexy way to show off your gams, while still embracing the color yellow.

Do you like to wear yellow? Which celebrity do you think pulls off yellow the best? Do you have a favorite yellow piece that you like to incorporate into your look? For more affordable fashion ideas, check out posts including stylish cardigans $20 & under, polka dot pants for any season, Victoria’s Secret’s latest nail polish launch, & fabulous flats by Fergalicious on clearance! Happy Styling!

Show Me The Shoes: Christian Siriano’s Latest Arrivals For Payless!


Christian SirianoShoe-gasm alert! Yes, I said it! When I saw the latest arrivals from Christian Siriano for Payless, I nearly died from joy… shoe-joy to be specific & I knew, without a doubt, that these just had to be included in my next Show Me The Shoes post! The Project Runway winner continues to share his talents & stylish shoe designs with the mainstream public after a number of successful collections for Payless- my favorite spot to find affordable & comfortable shoes that will only out a smile on my face!

Even though we’re still in the thick of winter, clad with textured boots & leather footwear, getting to see what’s coming for spring is refreshing & exciting, especially since Siriano has selected a soft & feminine color palette, recreating the way we consider neutral shoes. The classic nude patent texture is replaced with a pearlescent shine & a light polka dot pattern can certainly work with stripes, florals, & anything else you can think of. Also, I’m crazy for mint, especially when paired with metallic accents, sure to work with any wrap dress, cotton frock, or mini skirt look as we patiently wait for spring to begin.

The Polina bow flat ($42.99) in champagne or taupe are a playful nod to the New York ballet scene, perfect for pairing with a sheath dress & cardigan for the office, boyfriend jeans & a white blazer for a day out & about, or your favorite colored jeans & a blouse when grabbing a bite to eat with the girls.  The Cynthia sling ($54.99) in taupe or champagne are a sexy way to play up any bombshell look, especially if wearing something with lace details, structure with a belt, or to elongate the legline in skinny pants.

The Julie Mary Jane heel ($54.99) in champagne & mint are by far my favorite, especially the mint pair, which pay homage to old Hollywood screen sirens like Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly, or Elizabeth Taylor.  The vintage-inspired shape also bares resemblance to dancing shoes, so you can get the party started in these while wearing your favorite LBD, a-line dress, or sequined top & feathered mini skirt.

Christian Siriano for Payless

Perhaps the most daring of the collection includes the Natalia wedge sandal ($54.99), which is a flirty blend of resort-chic if matched with a maxidress to walk the boardwalk, or to add a mod splash to a printed, sleeveless shift dress.

In addition, this collection is an extension from Siriano’s ballet-themed Spring-Summer 2013 Collection, which I featured in Runway Rundown back in September. Check out the video below to see the collection in motion on the runway, & hear about his inspiration for the light & ethereal colors which are reinventing the way we style with neutral shoes!

What do you think of this collection? Are you a fan of the color palette? Which shoes are your favorite? For more shoe-love, check out posts including Rachel Zoe’s collaboration with ShoeDazzle, Prabal Gurung’s lookbook for Target, affordable pointy toe pumps inspired by Miranda Kerr & Katie Holmes, as well as a look at the designer shoes the stars wore for the Golden Globes after parties! Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Rachel Zoe Partners As Chief Stylist For Shoe Dazzle!


Rachel Zoe for Shoe Dazzle

I’ve said it before & I’ll say it again… I love any & everything that Rachel Zoe does! The amazing celebrity stylist & designer has joined forces with ShoeDazzle as their newest chief stylist, offering advice to shoppers who are looking for affordable glamour. While I know I can’t make the financial investment in a pair of Rachel Zoe Collection shoes, I can absolutely support this collaboration since it’s all in the name of shoes!

Check out the website for Rachel’s picks, some of which I’ve included above. The Madelaine pumps ($39.95) are floral wonders, perfect for mixing your winter separates as the season changes. Next, to go along with the cap toe trend, the Dana pumps ($43.95) are perfect for coordinating your neutrals with other pops of color. For those of you looking for comfort, the Maude wedges ($39.95) are sophisticated & luxe with a velvety texture & contrasting wooden heel.  Lastly, the Alejandra booties ($44.95) are modern, feminine, & chic if worn with edgy pieces like leather leggings, a motorcycle jacket, or cut-out LBD.

Which shoes are you looking to buy? Do you use ShoeDazzle often? Do you like to buy shoes online? What do you think about this latest collaboration? For more video posts featured in Watch This Style, check out a behind-the-scenes look at the shoes celebs wore at the Golden Globes, Destiny’s Child top 5 most stylish music videos, a peak at Jason Wu’s Miss Wu collection, & Jessica Alba’s photo shoot & interview for InStyle! Happy Styling!

The $100 Challenge: A Black & Silver Look On A Budget!


The $100 ChallengeJust b/c New Year’s Eve is long gone, that doesn’t mean we can’t still have a little sparkle & shine in our wardrobe. While I’ve been clicking around to find the best clearance deals on the latest markdowns, I keep coming back to Kohl’s, which is where I found the Jennifer Lopez foil racerback tank ($10.20) in primer gray.  Of course, this top is versatile for a casual day in skinny jeans & ballet flats under a flyaway cardigan, or perfect for a night out with the girls with leather leggings & cut-out booties.  I’ve paired this look with the high waist sequin stripe pencil skirt ($24.99) from The Limited & GOjane‘s open front cropped blazer ($24.95).

To accessorize this look, I’ve also found the pointed hologram pumps ($24.80) in gunmetal from Forever 21, which are also available in silver & rose, but there, you can find the diamond spike necklace ($1.50).  Lastly, a gorgeous cocktail ring for any evening look is the Apt. 9 jet simulated crystal stretch ring ($8.99) from Kohl’s.

Would you wear a shiny top like this during the day? How would you style it? Have you been shopping the sale racks? Where do you usually go to find the best end-of-the-season deals? For more posts featured in The $100 Challenge, check out a black & blue dressy look, an LBD date night ensemble, how to mix stripes & tweed, a coral & cap toe feminine outfit, & how to wear animal prints with embellished accessories! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: The Entire Prabal Gurung For Target Collection Lookbook!


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Back in November, I featured a video of designer Prabal Gurung talking about his inspiration behind his highly anticipated collaboration with Target, which has now been revealed on the web with a stunning 41-image lookbook.  Prices for the clothing & accessories line range from $13 to $200, including amazing jewelry, neon shoes, timeless handbags, plenty of dresses, & flirty separates.

In an interview with InStyle, Gurung revealed, “It’s about this girl falling in love from the time she first sees the guy right until the time they get married… I had this idea of a girl who finds her journal in her attic and she starts to go through it and remembers…” He adds, “I hope the woman who buys my designs feels a bit of happiness and romance when wearing them.

The collection will debut in stores & online on February 10th. Are you going to be waiting in line to snag some of these covetous items? Do you follow designer collaborations with mainstream retailers? Happy Styling!

Show Me The Shoes / Watch This Style: See What Shoes The Celebs Like Sofia Vergara, Selena Gomez, Rachel Zoe, & More Wore For InStyle’s Golden Globes After Party!


Julianne Hough, Sofia Vergara, Megan Hilty, Thandie Newton, & Julia Louis-Dreyfus.

So we’ve seen what the stars wore on the red carpet for this year’s Golden Globes, but it was at InStyle magazine’s after-party where the stars shared an exclusive peek at their shoes, including brands like Roger Vivier, Jimmy Choo, Casadei, Charlotte Olympia, Brian Atwood, & plenty more. The video includes interviews with nominees Sofia Vergara & Julia Louis-Dreyfus, celebrity stylish / designer Rachel Zoe, tween powerhouse Selena Gomez, the multi-talented Julianne Hough, Twilight actress Nikki Reed, British import Thandie Newton, Sucker Punch star Jena Malone, former One Tree Hill regular Sophia Bush, a neon-clad Michelle Monaghan, blonde beauty Malin Akerman, Smash sensation Megan Hilty, & Homeland star Morena Baccarin.

Which celebrity wore your favorite dress & shoe combination? For more posts featured in Show Me The Shoes, check out Fergalicious clearance items @DSW, affordable flats for under $25, & where to buy pointy toe heels inspired by Sarah Jessica Parker, Katie Holmes, & more! Happy Styling!