Watch This Style: Simply Irresistible Sex & The City Segues!

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Sex & the CIty

Happy New Year Style Darlings! There’s so much to look forward to in 2013, but I thought I’d take a minute to ring in the new year with an oldie, but a goodie.  Thanks to my email subscription to StyleIte, I came across this hilarious video of Sex & the City, featuring Carrie’s always pun-tastic segues.  Where would the show be without her quippy voiceovers transitioning from bedroom to bedroom? This video comes to us from Slackatory, so sit back & enjoy the hilarity.  I’ve been catching up on the show’s reruns which air on E!, but it’s funny to remember some of the awkward moments that the girls faced in the big apple.  Happy Styling!

Fabulous in 4 Ways: Floral Skinny Pants From H&M For Day, Date, Cocktail, & Weekend!

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Just b/c the holidays are mostly over, it doesn’t mean that the glamour has to end. The latest trends in spring fashion are slowly, but surely emerging & this includes floral pants. They’re not just for springtime, especially when there are so many chic & cozy ways to dress up or dress down florals when the weather is still chilly outside.  I’d like to take a look at some celebrity inspiration to see how the A-listers are wearing this trend.

Kristin Cavallari shares her chic maternity style in Joe’s Jeans with a basic black top & blazer to offset the vibrant pattern.  90210 star Shenae Grimes adds some punk flavor to her Alice + Olivia cropped pants with strappy booties & a leather top.  Playing with the same idea is Minka Kelly, whose Dolce & Gabbana floral pants are enhanced by suede peep toe pumps & a bright rectangular clutch.  Singer Lana Del Rey plays up her demure style in Citizens of Humanity pants under her trench coat with embellished ballet flats.  Lastly, Twilight star Kristen Stewart sticks to her favorite designer, Balenciaga, for her micro floral printed pants, paired with a Rebecca Minkoff blazer & a Juicy Couture tank.

Kristin Cavallari, Shenae Grimes, Minka Kelly, Lana Del Rey, & Kristen Stewart.Even if we look to the runways for Spring 2013, you’ll find that there’s plenty of floral on the bottom. Floral isn’t meant just for dresses, skirts, or blouses anymore. It can be an unexpected pop of femininity or juxtapose more masculine pieces for day or evening.  For example, we’ve seen this in collections from Jason Wu, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Lela Rose, Paul & Joe, & Tanya Taylor. Here, complimenting colors in your floral prints can work to accentuate a factor of luxury in your look, especially when it comes to jackets, cardigans, scarves, & heels.

Jason Wu, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Lela Rose, Paul & Joe, & Tanya Taylor. The pants in question for today’s Fabulous in 4 Ways post are the floral pants ($24.95) from H&M. Not only are these an amazing bargain, but I’m convinced that these can be worn in a variety of ways to get the most out of your wardrobe basics for day, weekend, date, & cocktail hour.  These may be a little hard to pull off in the office, depending on what your work dress code is, but for the more casual environments, I recommend a cute blouse & pumps to make your look polished & professional.

First, for daytime when you’re running some errands or meeting with your girlfriends for a casual luncheon (á la Sex & the City), I recommend playing with the colors in the pants, including the ruched panel cardigan ($9.99) in gold from Dress Barn worn over the lurex lace bra cami ($14.99) in true white from Express. When floral pants such as these are the focal point of your look, you can play with textures to add interest, which is why I’ve selected the Kenneth Cole ‘Slip Me One’ flats ($29.97) in red @Piperlime & the easy metallic combo of Forever 21‘s beaded hoop earrings ($5.80).

Keep it cozy when it comes to a weekend look, if you’re headed out to a movie during the day with your beau & then sit by the fireplace eating Chinese food. Yes, that’s what I’d like my weekends to be, which is why I picked the striped sweater with oversized cowl neck ($34.96) in herbal mist from New York & Company to wear with the Brash Zoey riding boot ($39.99) in black from Payless. The mixture of stripes & florals has fascinated me for a while, so when you’re cooped up with your significant other in the house when the weather is on the frightful side, experiment with your looks a little to keep things fresh.  However, if you’re headed out, I love the mix of tassels with the patent textures in the daisy fuentes Gemini studded cross-body handbag ($29.50) in magenta from Kohl’s matched with a little more spring fever in the floral bangle set ($7.80) from Forever 21.

When it comes to date night looks, you always have to consider where you’re headed.  Floral pants may seem busy, but if accessorized correctly, they’re the perfect foundation for a sophisticated & smart look to impress your date.  I picked the teardrop cut-out blouse ($24.99) in black from The Limited, a piece that is sure to make the rounds with other wardrobe staples like a pencil skirt, boyfriend jeans, & leggings.  Of course in skinny pants like these, a pair of DSW‘s BCBG Paris Preena pumps ($29.94) in fuchsia will elongate the legline & won’t be as intimidating as some seriously pointy toe shoes.  For a special finishing touch, I love the colorblocked flap crossbody ($19.80) from Forever 21 & Mixit hematite stone tassel drop earrings ($4.00) from JC Penney.

For a cocktail event, pants aren’t necessarily the first thing to come to mind, especially when a dress is so easy to throw on with some snazzy earrings & killer heels. However, if you’re running around & don’t have time to get that go-to LBD dry-cleaned, you can rely on floral plants to build an evening-ready cocktail look, including the gem collar peplum top ($30.00) in aubergine from Topshop with a built-in jeweled neckline that helps accessorize your ladylike ensemble.  Also, I’ve added the Abrianna heels ($34.99) in bone from ALDO with the sparkling sequin hinge wallet ($9.99) in champagne from Charlotte Russe. Lastly, b/c there’s so much going on in the look already, I didn’t want to bog it down with extra bling, but here’s your opportunity to break out a really fabulous cocktail ring like the affordable stretch oval ring ($12.99) in orange from Target.

Do you own floral pants? Would you consider adding them to your wardrobe? How would you style them? For more styling posts, check out my affordable LBD look, statement rings for under $10, & how to wear a metallic faux leather skirt in 4 ways! Happy Styling!

Watch This Style / Ad Madness: Behind-The-Scenes With Rachel Weisz For Bvlgari’s Serpenti Ad Campaign!

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Rachel Weisz for Bvlgari

Rachel Weisz is an Oscar-winning actress, naturally stunning model, the very lucky Mrs. Daniel Craig, & returning face to Bvlgari‘s ad campaign for their Serpenti collection. The line of luxury jewels features 37 pieces, all with a stylish serpent head & coil design with scales & precious stones.  In a recently discovered YouTube video, you can watch the British beauty lounge around, dripping in the collection’s most gorgeous pieces during the shoot.  If you’re feeling especially decadent, what with New Year’s Eve just around the corner, then take two minutes out of your blog browsing & take a look at the video below!

For more celebrity ad campaigns, check out posts including Amber Heard for Guess Girl, James Franco’s music video for Stuart Weitzman, & Rihanna’s latest fragrance, Nude. Happy Styling!

The Stylish Five: Affordable Flats For Any Occasion ($25 & Under)!

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‘Tis the season to be fashionable & when it comes to shoes, I love all styles, including flats. I’ve been lucky enough to find some great deals lately on late-summer designs, as well as the latest fall markdowns with trends like animal print, cap toes, colorblocking, embellishments, & neons.  Luckily, I was able to scope out these latest picks, all under $25 & are versatile enough for any occasion with some styling tweaks.

First off, I love me some houndstooth, which is why the Fergalicious Alana flats ($24.99) from 6PM are perfect for an office look with trousers & a blouse, a casual day with girlfriends with a cableknit sweater & skinny jeans, or a night in with your beau in a studded cardigan & jeggings.  The all over stone flat ($14.99) in lavender from Wet Seal is a mix of feminine & rock star, & is also available in turquoise, blush, pink, & black for up to $19.50. Break these out to dress up a denim skirt & pullover with a collar necklace, or for that retro-inspired shift dress you’ve been dying to wear!

The dexflex Claire scrunch flat ($24.99) from Payless are right up my alley, perfectly chic with a mix of cream & the metallic toe.  I’d pair this with a sequin top & neutral skirt, or to offset textured tights with a colorblock dress.  The Cyphers flats ($22.49) from ALDO are office-friendly with menswear-inspired tassles, but the playful fuchsia shade is just the right touch of pink to contrast a monochromatic look in navy or charcoal.  Since neon just isn’t going away, I just had to feature the neon toe ballet flats ($16.80) in nude/aqua @Forever 21, which are also sold in nude/pink & nude/yellow.  I’d recommend wearing these with a lace frock & thick belt or to play up your favorite pastel sweater dress.

Which flats are your favorites? What stores do you usually shop in when looking for flats? Do you gravitate towards the sale racks to find the latest markdowns? For more fabulous shoe posts, check out these pointy toe heels inspired by Katie Holmes & Sarah Jessica Parker, the best bargains for peep toe pumps, & GOjane’s crazy sale on booties! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Find Your Fabulous New Year’s Eve Dress @Kohl’s For Under $50!

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Hunting for a dress is never hard for me… not to brag or anything. When it comes to pants, that’s a whole other story. As a Style Darling on a budget, there’s nothing wrong with recycling a classic cocktail frock with some dazzling accessories for an upcoming party; however, if you’re able to shop for a new frock, I’d like to recommend these eight incredible buys, which are all from Kohl’s & are currently on sale for under $50! Having recently posted in Haute Headlines some of In Style‘s top picks for New Year’s Eve dresses, I knew I had to find my own to share!

I’ve been scoping out the Jennifer Lopez lace overlay ponte dress ($48.00), trying to figure out a way to write about it (& make it mine!) & the delicate lace details are just the ladylike touch to make the holidays shine if you’re looking for a dress that can last for many occasions after. Another dress on my must-have list is the Narciso Rodriguez DesigNation colorblock ponte sheath dress ($25.60), which has been reduced from its original $64.00 price! While some might deem this more of a work-ready dress, I recommend breaking out some of your best metallic accessories like a thick gold belt & textured pumps to dress this up for evening.  The Simply Vera Vera Wang mixed media dress ($40.80) puts all the sparkle out there for your look & merely calls for some towering evening sandals & vintage-inspired clutch.  For your flirty side, the Candie’s openwork sequin dress ($28.99) is a perfectly embellished LBD for a night of champagne & kissing at midnight. 

Kohl's

For the more practical party goer, the ELLE textured sheath dress ($30.00) in black begs for a collar necklace & stack of bangles, but it’s also available in green, fuchsia, & purple.  One of my favorite brands @Kohl’s is LC Lauren Conrad, which makes the lace satin dress ($44.80), a feminine & playful way to celebrate the new year, especially when coordinated with satin peep toe pumps & chandelier earrings.  Style Darlings of all shapes & sizes will be happy to shop for the Apt. 9 sequin shift dress ($35.20), which is available in 0X-3X. Not only does this dress look made for New Year’s Eve, but the oxblood / burgundy hue is very on-trend this season.  Lastly, the Speechless tiered tube dress ($9.80) is by far the best bargain for plus-size shoppers & reader & is the perfect template for dressing up with a sequin bolero, shimmering tights, & drop earrings. 

Which dress is your favorite? What style are you shopping for to celebrate the New Year in? Do you usually shop @Kohl’s for special occasion items? Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Top 10 Style Darlings To Watch For 2013!

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Miranda Kerr, Solange Knowles, Jessica Chastain, Emma Stone, Rooney Mara, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Olivia Wilde, Malin Akerman, Ashley Greene, & Freida Pinto.

It’s now the final week of 2012 & fashion critics everywhere are compiling their lists of the best looks & best dressed throughout the year. Of course you have the A-listers like Anne Hathaway, Angelina Jolie, Rihanna, Diane Kruger, & Jennifer Lopez who always make a fashionable entrance, but I wanted to share my list of the Top 10 Style Darlings To Watch For 2013, meaning the gals who’ve made their mark on 2012, but still have a lot to share for the upcoming year.  This list includes, in no particular order, Victoria’s Secret model Miranda Kerr, singer / DJ Solange Knowles, stage & screen siren Jessica Chastain, America’s latest sweetheart Emma Stone, Oscar-nominated Rooney Mara, the pillowy-lipped Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, former House star Olivia Wilde, blonde bombshell Malin Akerman, Twilight starlet Ashley Greene, & Indian beauty Freida Pinto.

Miranda Kerr

Miranda Kerr has single-handedly reinvented street style for the mom-on-the-go. Avoiding leggings & oversized tunic sweaters, she’s busting her gams in towering heels, skimpy shorts, classic pencil skirts, & modern looks to show that everyday is a runway.  Here we see the Aussie in a belted white dress by Willow while taking in Sydney. She shows off her tough side in a biker jacket, green sweater by Acne, Tabitha Simmons lace-up booties, & a chic Christian Louboutin bag while in New York. The model isn’t afraid of matching prints in this Helmut Lang shorts suit, paired with Tabitha Simmons ankle strap sandals. Miranda certainly knows how to dine in style in a sultry pewter column gown at the Gramercy Park Hotel.  Lastly, she’s effortless in a Balenciaga printed skirt matched with black separates, including an enviable Givenchy tote bag. 

Solange Knowles

News of Beyonce’s baby girl, Blue Ivy, might have started off 2012, but it was little sister Solange Knowles who really made it a year of newsworthy style. She plays with prints & proportion, never afraid of letting her personality show, often experimenting with bright colors. Just last month the singer partied in Miami in a Kenzo sheath dress with transparent sandals. She plays with colorblocking in this demure red & black ensemble with a sparkling tote back & bow bedecked heels. For a garden party at the MoMa, Solange’s floral separates show off her feminine side, especially with killer nude Casadei pumps. While celebrating a Ferragamo event, the talented DJ wears colorful separates by the designer, along with tons of perfectly coiffed curls.  Lastly, one of my favorite looks includes the printed Vera Wang peplum dress that she donned with matching heels for the Runway To Win Launch Party.

Jessica Chastain

Jessica Chastain epitomizes what a modern-day movie star should be & she’s quickly climbing the fashion ranks with such a spectacular 2012 in front of the camera. She always brings out the nonstop glamour with every frock, cocktail dress, & gown that she wears- & they definitely don’t wear her.  It was hard to narrow down five of her best looks since she’s yet to hit on a red carpet slump, but I love the green Karen Caldwell sheath dress paired with suede bold Barbara Bui slingbacks & Harry Winston earrings for an appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman earlier this year.  She went for an all-black sparkling gown with green Bochic earrings, which was to die for against her alabaster skin & rich red hair.  At New York’s Beacon Theatre, this transparent beaded Marios Schwab dress caused quite the stir, but looked radiant with Harry Winston earrings & Giuseppe Zanotti satin heels. It’s rare that we see the Oscar-nominated actress in separates, but I love the look of her Kirna Zabête for Target ensemble, including a printed blouse, full blue skirt, black blazer, & peep toe heels.  Lastly, for the opening night of her run on Broadway in The Heiress, Jessica wowed in a yellow lace Stella McCartney design with nude Christian Louboutins. 

Emma Stone

Emma Stone has been playing up her red & blonde locks on the red carpet, especially for the promotional tour for The Amazing Spider-Man, which catapulted this girl-next-door into super stardom.  Everyone in Hollywood wants to be her friend & everyone else is coveting her wardrobe.  This includes the two-tone jeweled design by Burberry with a sparkling green pencil skirt & ring by Jennifer Meyer.  Emma’s bubble gum pink Valentino dress worn with the houndstooth pumps by Ferragamo was the match of the year in this feminine take on menswear-inspiration.  For a premiere, she wore a party-worthy Chanel dress with Cartier jewelry & Christian Louboutins to finish the look.  Emma not only sports a dress like no other, but she’s taken risks like this luxe black Elie Saab jumpsuit in London, as well as her Gucci suit with t-strap heels & emeralds by Tiffany & Co. for the People’s Choice Awards.

Rooney Mara

Rooney Mara not only kicked butt on-screen in The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, but she made one heck of a red carpet debut while promoting the film. Her minimalist style was a refreshing & much-needed dose of reality on while showing that you can be edgy & feminine at the same time.  Her blunt bangs have set a trend, as well as her unforgettably mysterious look, mixing progressive silhouettes with that ambiguously flirty stare.  Most recently, Rooney stepped out in Dubai in a custom sculptural dress by Calvin Klein.  She showed off her love of primary colors in this green Louis Vuitton cocktail dress for the Santa Barbara Film Festival.  For the Oscar nominees luncheon, she mixed a jumpsuit from ASOS with a chic white blazer by Thierry Mugler.  When in Rome, Rooney choose a ravishing red gown by Valentino, clad soft lace details. Last, she continues her sometimes androgynous look with a jacket by Givenchy by Riccardo Tisci, mini skirt, & ankle strap heels by Louis Vuitton.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley is a regular featured in my posts for Red Carpet Review & Top 10 Celeb Sightings b/c she always gets it right. She’s turned heads not just b/c of her beautiful face & rocking body, but she brings a whole new level of taste to the red carpet as a model-turned-actress.  She’s got movie-star looks & isn’t backing down from any opportunity to steal the spotlight, especially in the stunning two-toned cocktail dress by Burberry with metallic cap toe heels.  One of my favorite looks of the year includes her green ruffled column gown by Gucci, topped off with Jennifer Meyer jewelry & white ankle-strap heels.  Also, Rosie smoldered in a lace overlay design by Jason Wu with a sleek updo, black pumps, & a deep lip color.  She knows how to work a trend, including the leather-detailed peplum dress with contrasting cap toe pumps.  Finally, her street style is pretty amazing too, especially the Stella McCartney printed mini dress with a Jason Wu tote, Alexander Wang sandals, & Burberry sunglasses. 

Olivia Wilde

Olivia Wilde was all the talk last year & she’s lived up to her last name in 2012 with a series of looks only a chameleon could pull off.  The green-eyed actress is slated for more than a dozen films in the next few years & she looks happier than ever.  She’s a designer’s darling & can work any number of looks, including Old Hollywood, boho chic, contemporary bombshell, & so on.  Whether she’s blonde or brunette, she can pull off a sleek LBD like this red-belted A.L.C. design paired with pointy toe red pumps.  She looks ethereal in a silver embellished Carolina Herrera gown with a leather Jimmy Choo clutch.  Olivia has made cocktail dresses look renewed again with this lace-trimmed frock by Prada, & I love the contrasting tone peep toe Aperlai slingbacks. She’s not afraid of playing with shapes, as seen in the Calvin Klein caped dress that she wore with strappy sandals & a House of Lavande ring.  Lastly, she’s even effortless in L’Wren Scott separates with bowed Christian Louboutins at a premiere in New York. 

Malin Akerman

Malin Akerman mixes her sunny smile with one of the biggest trends of the year: leather.  She’s not afraid of blending her beachy blonde locks with the rock-friendly material, while constantly showing off her love of separates & classic black.  There’s always a retro feel in everything she wears, including her plunging leather vest & leggings with a printed clutch by Barbara Bui & pointy toe Aldo pumps.  She plays with shape in the leather-accented peplum top with trousers by J. Mendel, studded Walter Steiger pumps, & bangles by House of Lavande.  At the Los Angeles premiere of Nobody Walks, Malin wore this classic-cut LBD in leather by Boss Black with a Stephen Webster cuff & suede peep toe heels.  In support of designer Vena Cava, she wore the brand head-to-toe including flared printed trousers & a leather clutch.  Last, the Swedish import looks nothing short of gorgeous in a high slit Cushnie et Ochs tangerine gown with a Coach clutch & sandals by Tibi.

Ashley Greene

Kristen Stewart might have been the talk of the town b/c of her affair & cheating on Rob Pattinson, but it’s Ashley Greene who’s emerged on top of the whole Twilight Saga, what with landing a campaign gig with DKNY & hitting every major red carpet looking bit a lady. She’s got the pose down & has designers in her back pocket, never failing to look age-appropriate, as a good role model for young actresses.  At The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 premiere, Donna Karan Atelier custom-made this one-shoulder blush gown for the actress, which she accessorized with Bvlgari diamonds.  While attending a premiere in Los Angeles, Ashley sported another custom gown by the fashion house in fuchsia with jewelry by Kimberly McDonald. She sure knows how to play up her shape, especially in this nude Emilio Pucci dress with a statement necklace by Karine Sultan, a studded Christian Louboutin clutch, & Casadei pumps.  Back in February at the Loveisrespect launch party, she choose black & white for this sequined Oscar de la Renta frock with Cathy Waterman jewelry.  Last, she surprised in a peach lace design by Yigal Azrouel with suede pumps. 

Freida Pinto

Freida Pinto is probably one of my favorite stars to emerge over the last few years since her debut in Slumdog Millionaire.  She’s so beautiful & brings a fresh vibe to many of her red carpet looks.  Whether she’s walking at Cannes or attending press events, she’s nothing short of sophisticated & youthful, all with the flash of her smile.  At the Dubai International Film Festival, she accents her Sam & Lavi printed dress with layered necklaces by Lindsay Vallan & Roger Vivier sandals. Black on black has never looked so chic than on Freida while promoting Desert Dancer in a black AllSaints blouse with skinny jeans & heels.  She mixes eras in a black & white collared top with a ruby red skirt by Contrarian New York & classic Louboutin pumps.  When viewing the Ferragamo show at the Louvre, she donned a beaded dress by the label with a shimmering box clutch & satin pumps. Earlier this year, she played with color in an Yves Saint Laurent bustier with a pencil skirt & satin platforms. 

Which celebrities are you looking forward to seeing more of in 2013? Who do you think has the best up-and-coming style? Which designers are on your radar next year? Happy Styling!

Cover Craze: Behind The Scenes At Gwen Stefani’s Vogue January 2013 Cover Shoot!

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Gwen Stefani for Vogue January 2013While biding my time during the holidays, stuck in bed, sick as a pampered pooch, I spent some time flipping through the January 2013 issue of Vogue, with the always glamorous Gwen Stefani on the cover. Gwen has been one of my fashion idols for a long time, & I still remember hearing “Just A Girl” on the radio for the first hundred times back when I was in middle school.  Inside the magazine, you’ll find ridiculously fashionable shots of the No Doubt frontwoman, alongside her bandmates whose latest album, Push & Shove, is creating lots of buzz for the band’s long-awaited reunion.  Check out the video below to get a taste of Gwen’s history with the group & her hot looks for the new year, featuring designs by Alexander Wang & Saint Laurent by Hedi Slimane. Happy Styling!

The $100 Challenge: Dress Up An LBD Without Breaking The Bank!

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Getting ready for the holidays is always fun, what with the parties, dinners, & gatherings with friends & family leading up to the end of the year. You don’t have to spend a lot to look like a million bucks, especially when you look around at all the latest sales going on online & in stores. First I wanted to start off with a chic LBD for my latest post in The $100 Challenge, which includes the cross front jersey dress ($22.50) in black from Old Navy. The flowy, figure-flattering shape is perfect for any time of year, especially when it’s an ideal foundation for fun & sparkly pieces.  Of course, while heading to parties, you can add a flirty topper like the open front cardigan ($17.90) from Windsor Store.

Fabulous accessories include the Fioni Helix glitter sandal ($19.99) in silver from Payless, Forever 21‘s rhinestoned triangle necklace ($6.80) in grey, bow waist belt ($4.80) in cream, H&M‘s metallic tights ($9.95), & the Bay Harbor ostrich clutch ($18.00) by Apt. 9 from Kohl’s.

The total comes to $99.94, which is just under budget. Do you like this look? What’s your holiday go-to? How much are you willing to spend on one look? Happy Styling!

Basics For A Bargain: Pointy Toe Heels Are Here To Stay, Inspired By Katie Holmes, Stacy Keibler, Miranda Kerr, & More!

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While this little Style Darling has been busy with holiday preparations & fighting off a nasty cold, I’ve been finding joy in shoes, pointy toe shoes, more specifically. While perusing through the latest gallery pics of the most recent & fabulous red carpet looks worn by my favorite celebrities, I started noticing that pointy toe shoes have been making a sneaky comeback.  Of course, celebrities have been donning these on & off, but throughout the summer & fall, they’ve been mixing up their looks with towering platforms, round toe pumps, as well as cut-out & deep-vamp booties this season. I decided to feature some affordable pointy toe shoes in classic black, nude, & fun designs for a variety of looks for day, evening, & work. 

First off, I wanted to share some celebrity inspiration with nude pumps. Katie Holmes pairs her neutral shoes with a bright magenta Narciso Rodriguez sheath dress & olive trench coat. Kerry Washington softens her leather A.L.C. frock with nude shoes & House of Lavande jewelry.  This is 40 star Leslie Mann is all smiles in a knotted coral number with a luxe cream coat.  Singer / actress Mandy Moore offsets her stunning cobalt asymmetric dress with a colorful Bvlgari clutch & super pointy shoes. 

It didn’t take very long to find some affordable counterparts, without having to break the bank.  This includes Forever 21‘s patent & faux leather pump ($27.80) in tan with a 4 1/2-inch heel, perfect for elongating your legline.  I also recommend the Madden Girl Tartt pumps ($34.99) in blush patent from 6PM, which are currently 30% off from their original $50 price tag.  Of course these shoes are perfect for any dress look, making any pair of gams long miles long, but they’re also especially flattering with skinny jeans & a tunic top, leggings & an oversized sweater, or a 70s-inspired jumpsuit. 

As for the basic black pump, a pointy toe is edgy when matched with feminine frocks, & they can even dress up the most basic of outfits.  Tina Fey shows off her digital printed top with skinny pants, whereas Kate Bosworth mixes her pumps with a sophisticated Emilio Pucci peplum dress. 

Maria Sharapova plays with separates, including a floral Zimmermann top, Tanya Taylor skirt, & Iwona Ludyga earrings for her Giuseppe Zanotti pumps. The svelte Stacy Keibler looks long & lean in her wool & leather Monique Lhuillier suit while walking the red carpet at the VH1 Divas show. Clearly, black pumps are an essential for any wardrobe, including the Nine West Love Fury pumps ($47.99), as well as the Dianna pumps ($39.95) by Diba from DSW.

Lastly, if you’re going to wear pointy toe pumps, there are some occasions when a fun & flirty shoe is a must-have.  Make an unexpected move by going monochromatic like Miranda Kerr‘s all-white look at an event for Mango, or get wild with something textured like Sarah Jessica Parker‘s Jean-Michel Cazabat snake embossed pumps which well-coordinated with her vintage Estevez dress & Fendi bag. 

Rashida Jones plays with color in her slim leg cobalt suit, Peter Pilotto blouse, Jimmy Choo clutch, & Dana Rebecca Designs jewelry.  Lastly, Olivia Wilde makes her sexy leather head-to-toe look even more enviable with spiked Christian Louboutins & a House of Lavande ring. 

For a splash of sass, I looked for pointy toe pumps with some color & personality.  @Charlotte Russe, I found the patent pointed toe pump ($25.50) in hot pink, which will pop against any all-black look, or bring out the best from a watercolor print dress.  Also, since it’s the holiday season, add a little sparkle to your pump with the Robidoux ($27.99) in bright multi from Aldo. Try these with a classic LBD, leather jacket & mini skirt, or sweater dress & tights.

Which pointy toe shoes do you like? How much do you usually spend on footwear? Do you prefer pointy toe or round? Happy Styling!

The $100 Challenge: Stripes, Tweed, & Gold Accessories For Your Best Holiday Look!

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I’ve been really inspired lately by the looks put together & shared on Facebook by pages such as “Fashion is my World”, Trendy Fashion Jewelry, fashion lady, & Fashion Dream, not to mention countless others that I was able to share with my readers.  I love looking for affordable fashion & putting together luxe looks with pieces that are realistic to any wardrobe & can be mixed & matched for a variety of looks.  Thus, my latest post for The $100 Challenge features, first & foremost, the Merona Sparkle Tweed skirt ($22.99) from Target that I’ve been eyeing each time I hit up the store. The $100 Challenge

Also, I’m excited to play with the latest trend of stripes, which is why I included the striped long sleeve top ($12.80) in royal / peach from Forever 21.  Paired with such a rich texture, this top is perfect for a cocktail party & gold accessories makes for an interesting contrast.  Speaking of gold, the rest of the look really comes to life with the Apt. 9 gold tone mesh oval link long necklace ($17.60) from Kohl’s, metal lattice ring ($5.24) from The Limited, Fioni halo chop-out glitter sandal ($24.99) from Payless, & JC Penney‘s Call It Spring Bulciago wristlet ($12.00).

The total for this look comes to $95.62, before taxes, & has enough versatility to last for many cocktail affairs, the office, a casual day, & even a glam date night out.  Which trends are you following this season? Do you pair stripes with fancier pieces to create an unexpected look? Happy Styling!

Top 10 Celeb Sightings: The Stars of Les Miserables & More Red Carpet Glamour, Featuring Naomi Watts, Zoe Saldana, Freida Pinto, & More!

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Awards season is officially in full swing with the announcement of the Screen Actors Guild & Critics Choice nominations. All of my favorite celebs have been hitting the red carpet, including the stunning stars of Les Miserables to promote their best work.  While actress Anne Hathaway had some sort of revealing wardrobe malfunction in the (pictured above) black silky Tom Ford number, she still looked every bit the major movie star, along with Amanda Seyfried in a beguiling Alexander McQueen gown.  Other favorites include Freida Pinto‘s golden Ralph Lauren Collection look & Naomi Watts floral gown by Zac Posen.

Also, be sure to check out my other picks for the Top 10 Celeb Sightings, including Cate Blanchett in peplum dress by Peter Pilotto, Elizabeth Banks‘ Rachel Zoe Collection LBD, Emma Stone‘s pastel colorblock ensemble by Project Runway finalist Daniel Vosovic, Jessica Alba‘s leather-accented Narciso Rodriguez dress, Jessica Chastain‘s Elie Saab confection, & Zoe Saldana‘s sexy Preen sheath.

Who’s wearing your favorite look? Have you been following the latest red carpet appearances? Which stars are you most exciting to see during this awards season? For more fabulous red carpet looks, check out previous posts, including Katy Perry & Scarlett Johansson, Gwen Stefani & Sarah Jessica Parker, as well as Nina Dobrev & Solange Knowles! Happy Styling!

Show Me The Shoes: One Stop Shoe Shop For Day, Work, & Cocktail @Payless!

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It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of the styles @Payless, which is why I continue to share the best finds from the store for all seasons. Not to mention, while celebrating the holidays, you can hone your style a little better without breaking any budget with a special 20% off coupon code (82028) to ease any shopping stress & it expires on 12/19. 

I’ve selected styles that vary for occasions, including day, work, & evening. I believe in a versatile shoe, while getting the most for your money, which is why I’m starting off with the dexflex by Dexter Kappy toe pump ($16.49) in bronze, the most inexpensive of my quintet here.  I’ve been getting into the less popular metallics like copper, rose gold, & bronze, loving the way they offset some of this season’s trendiest colors.  Not only are they perfect for a pencil skirt & blouse for work, but will also contrast any powersuit. 

For some menswear inspiration, I love the Dexter Kylie wedge pump ($22.99) in grey-black plaid, which changes up a traditional wedge to a work-ready investment. Of course the pattern is specific, but you won’t do wrong with a lace-detail sweater with jeans for day or an embellished top & trumpet skirt for the office. 

Payless shoes

For the vintage lover out there, I love the latest from Project Runway winner Christian Siriano‘s Hadley t-strap pump ($34.99) in burgundy, which is the go-to color for fall & winter! This screams for some corduroy, tweed, or textured tights- always cute for a sophisticated night out with the girls or if you’re headed to the board room. 

We can’t talk about the holidays without bringing up any upcoming parties. If you’re not afraid of heights, I recommend the Silvia Tcherassi Lyon platform pump ($29.99) in tan, but it’s also sold in a very regal navy with the same luxe gold details.  Lastly, for the party girl & flirt, the Fioni Kipsie stitch peep toe heel ($29.99) is the perfect touch for a polka dot frock on a date.  There’s a special bow detail right at the toe, which is always a favorite of mine!

Which shoes are your favorite? Have you set aside a spending budget for footwear this season? Do you like bargain shopping when it comes to shoes? Happy Styling!

Cover Craze: Jessica Chastain’s 4 Artsy Poses For W’s January 2013 Issue!

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Jessica Chastain has certainly been the it-girl of Hollywood this year, especially following her well-deserved Oscar nomination for her supporting role in The Help.  The redheaded beauty is featured on four covers for W magazine, showing just how it is that “art meets fashion”through the eyes of four very different & well-respected artists.  This list includes abstract expressionist George Condo, portraitist Rineke Dijkstra, painter Chantal Joffe, & collage artist Mickalene Thomas. Thanks to an email from Styleite, I might have missed this quartet of very beautiful photos for Cover Craze.  Jessica Chastain for W magazine

For more details behind the shoot & what the actress has been up to, head over to W for the copmplete article! For more magazine-related posts, check out Anne Hathaway for Glamour, December covers with Catherine Zeta-Jones & Keira Knightley, & international covers for Elle, Marie Claire, & In Style! Happy Styling!

Splurge Or Save… On Feminine Peep Toe Pumps?

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If you’ve been following Style Darling on Instagram, then you know that I’ve been busy with some shoe shopping as of late, but it’s not all for me, for once! My bestie asked for my help in finding closed toe evening pumps & I advised her on investing in Christian Siriano‘s La Femme pumps for Payless, which I featured in a post back in January. I love patent leather for the holidays, but also it’s a luxe material for a shoe any time of year. 

While thinking about holiday shoes, I wanted to share a classic & festive staple & that’s the peep toe pump. Of course you can find any old peep in whatever material you so desire, but for the holidays, I thought it was important to emphasize feminine details in ruffles & bows, especially when our outfits are covered in lace, sequins, or embellishments. 

I’ve selected five pairs of peep toe pumps at varying price points for to share with readers & shoppers that you don’t necessarily have to break the bank when looking for holiday essentials like fashionable footwear. I’ve started off with the Stuart Weitzman peep toe pump ($201.49) that have recently been reduced by 50% @Farfetch. The all-patent exterior is luminous & the shoe offers a stiletto that is sure to show off your legline.  If that’s too out of your price range, then Badgley Mischka sail suede pump ($84.50) from Last Call by Neiman Marcus is sure to get you plenty of bang for you buck. Of course this shoe is definitely more dressy, if worn to at least 2 occasions during the holiday months & throughout the winter, you’ll have 10 wears & each will only cost $8.45! Fancy that!

An even better deal thrives behind my Zappos find with the RSVP Sheryl pumps ($55.99) with an all-over satin finish, perfect for not just the holidays, but evening weddings with a sweeping empire waist gown.  Next, I’m happy to finally share a shoes by Fergalicious (yes, that’s Fergie Ferg) from 6pm, & the Energy pumps ($27.99) break down to less than $3 per wear. The soft ruffle around the peep toe frames your new pedicure, while contrasting any edgy pieces that complete your look like a leather jacket or white satin blazer.

Finally, I’m re-sharing the Valencia bow pumps ($19.99) by Lela Rose for Payless, which I featured back in an August post as a must-have for its patent body & satin bow. The shoe is marked down from its original $44.99 price (which I paid + 20% off with a coupon), but I couldn’t pass these up, thinking that they wouldn’t be around when I needed them (& I wore them for my birthday back in September!). Now, the even lower price makes these all the more desirable & I can tell you from firsthand experience that they’re very comfortable!

Where do you like to shop for holiday shoes? What are your must-have footwear pieces for the holidays? Do you prefer satin over suede or leather over patent? Would you splurge or save on a pair of peep toes like these? Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Anne Hathaway & Amanda Seyfried Dazzle While Promoting ‘Les Miserables’!

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Ever since news hit the web that there was going to be a full-on movie musical remake of the legendary novel-turned-Broadway play, Les Miserables, I’ve been following its every move of production, including casting news & sneak peeks at the stars singing their hearts on.  Two of the film’s leading ladies, Anne Hathaway & Amanda Seyfried, have been dazzling on the red carpet, which I, naturally, needed to feature b/c there was just too much great fashion not to!

Let’s start with Amanda whose belted Alexander McQueen column gown was an ethereal turn for the blue-eyed blonde, accessorized with mirrored Rupert Sanderson evening sandals. The January In Style cover girl stole the show in a plunging two-toned Balenciaga gown with towering satin platforms for the film’s London premiere.  Amanda returned to pastels in a soft Marios Schwab dress with patent leather peep toes by Rupert Sanderson.  Also, back in October, as the buzz surrounding the film was just starting, Amanda appeared at the Hollywood Film Awards in a ravishing red bustier dress by Prabal Gurung with earrings by Dana Rebecca Designs & platform Jimmy Choo shoes.  Amanda Seyfried & Anne Hathaway

I’ve been talking about Miss Anne quite a lot this year, ever since she debuted her short ‘do back in July, hit the red carpet in Valentino, & shined on the covers of Vogue & Glamour! The newlywed continued to channel Audrey Hepburn in a sleek Victoria Beckham LBD with black pumps. While talking up the film in Tokyo, she donned a Antonio Berardi keyhole dress with open toe patent leather shoes.  She took a risk in a relaxed midnight column gown a New York screening of Les Mis wearing a moonstone cocktail ring by Graziela.  Most recently, she made quite the movie star entrance while showing off her back in an all-over beaded Givenchy gown in London. 

There’s no doubt that this is Anne’s year on the red carpet, but I know I can’t take my eyes off of Amanda, whose style seems to get better, fresher, & more feminine at every glance.  Whose red carpet style do you like better? Do you like Anne’s pixie cut? Do you think Amanda was a good choice for Les Miserables? Happy Styling!

The Stylish Five: Glittering Cocktail Rings For The Holidays ($10 & Under)!

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I’ve been talking a lot about classic stud earrings & statement necklaces for the holidays, but you can’t forget about the joys of cocktail rings.  A special piece of bling on your finger while sipping a glass of wine is always a great way to toast the season.  It wasn’t hard to search for fantastic accessories to pair with your metallic dresses, embellished tops & brocade skirts, or silky pants & pointed toe pumps. 

I love Charlotte Russe‘s glitter gemstone dome ring ($6.00) in mint, which will ass a splash of color to any pewter & gunmetal look, while bringing out richer hues like teal, oxblood, & navy.  A little gold never hurts, which is why I’m recommending the brushed goldtone fashion ring ($8.00) from JC Penney, in case you’re looking to change things up while wearing chandelier earrings. 

The Stylish Five

For a flirty & elegant touch, the LC Lauren Conrad gold tone simulated pearl heart ring ($9.80) from Kohl’s to offset any lacey frock & satin bowed pumps.  @Payless, you can find the Minicci filigree rhinestone ring ($4.00) for a decadent addition to your luxe baroque outfit.  Lastly, the twisted teardrop ring ($6.80) from Forever 21 is an antique piece, essential for a variety of looks including how to contrast a plaid shirt & pencil skirt as a cocktail hour reinvention. 

Which ring is your favorite? How much do you like to spend on fashion jewelry? What details to you seek when it comes to your holiday style? Happy Styling!

The $100 Challenge: Keeping It Coral For the Holidays!

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When it comes to what to wear for the holidays, we naturally think of red, green, black, & metallics, but I’ve been seeing a whole slew of pastels this season, which is why I was so excited to share LOFT‘s grosgrain waist pleated dress ($37.50) in coral. Not only is it marked down from its original nearly $90.00 price tag, but LOFT is celebrating the holidays with a store & site wide 50% off sale on all clearance items, no code needed. Not to mention that this dress is perfect for special occasions in the spring & will even look chic with a blazer & textured tights for the office. 

Finding more sale items to keep within out under $100 budget was easy since coral is such a feminine & bright color to wear for this holidays.  The rest of this look includes the cardigan ($17.95) in black from H&M which is the ultimate wardrobe staple for any embellished top or watercolor sheath dress.  Also, the glittered skinny waist belt ($3.80) in gold from Forever 21 is also available in pink, mint, & purple for your every pastel need.  The look comes together effortlessly with the color block pointed toe pump ($12.49) from Charlotte Russe that has a special metallic detail between the nude & coral hues.

Other accessories to help complete this look are the Mossimo exotic skin envelope clutch ($14.99) in gold from Target, which will coordinate well with any LBD, denim & sequins look, or classic shirtdress. Lastly  New York & Company‘s neutral tri-color bib necklace ($10.00) is a polished finishing touch that will also make the most basic button-down shirt or scoop neck tee a little more glamorous for day. The grand total for this look comes to $96.76, before taxes of course.

What dresses are you shopping for this season? Where are you finding the best deals & markdowns? For more affordable finds, check out previous posts featuring animal print inspiration, a party-ready look from H&M, & how to work stripes & florals for work or a date look! Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Marion Cotillard Designs The Latest Lady Dior Handbag!

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Marion Cotillard for Lady Dior

While trying to fight off a cold & organize my best writing for a future as a grad student, I was sidelined by the latest news circulating around the fashion world, that Oscar-winning actress Marion Cotillard is designing a very special Lady Dior handbag. As a spokesmodel for the brand for several years now, the French beauty has taken her flair for fashion & forte as a creative force in music to new heights by lending her vision to Dior in creating a classic, yet modern bag.

In this video, discovered on my favorite site In Style, you can take a look at Marion as she brainstorms ideas for the bag with a behind-the-scenes peak at her fabulous celebrity lifestyle.  What do you think of her latest foray as designer? Happy Styling!

 

Beauty Buys: Forever 21’s Affordable Stocking Stuffers For A Beautiful 2013!

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I’ve been taking my time sifting through the pages of all my favorite issues of the December magazines, checking out the best deals on gifts for my Style Darling pals without breaking my budget, while still offering something fun & useful to make 2013 all the more beautiful.  If you’re in a rut & need to pick up a few fashionable extras while scoping out the great deals @Forever 21, check out their beauty products, which are always a great way to discover new hues & change up your routine. I picked out the love & beauty eyeshadow ($2.80) in beige, jade, & gunmetal since they’re perfect for any look & season. To apply these shimmering shades, I’ve also selected the cheetah pattern cosmetic brushes ($3.80), which comes with 5 valuable pieces for bringing out your best features.

Forever 21 beauty buys

Switch up the usual cosmetic must-haves & add some bling inside your bag with the rhinestoned mirror compact & tweezer set ($5.80).  You’ll love applying the essential hues for day, night, & parties in the lip gloss trio ($4.80) which is available in four different combinations, including rose/cherry, red/berry, pink/hot pink, & natural/bronze for every skin tone.  Take advantage of the bold nail art trend hitting Instagram with the color tip nail kit ($8.80) with 8 matte shades, necessary for any polish collection.

What are your favorite stocking stuffers to give? Do you like to give beauty products to your favorite friends? Where do you shop for the best beauty deals? Happy Styling!

Cover Craze: Anne Hathaway Starts Off 2013 As Glamour’s January Cover Girl- Pixie Cut & All!

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Anne Hathaway for Glamour January 2013 01

Now that December has rolled around, all of my favorite magazines have started debuting their January 2013 covers, including the always fabulous Glamour magazine, featuring A-list actress Anne Hathaway, donning her now famous pixie cut, ultra lithe figure, & hard-to-miss newlywed glow.  The Les Miserables star plays with bright colors & hot pants for the magazine’s spread, sharing with readers her competitive nature, gorgeous honeymoon, & how she’s sworn off shopping for the rest of 2012.

What do you think about Anne’s shorter ‘do? Which celebs do you like seeing on mag covers? Happy Styling!

Anne Hathaway for Glamour January 2013 02Anne Hathaway for Glamour January 2013 03Anne Hathaway for Glamour January 2013 04Anne Hathaway for Glamour January 2013 05

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Cozy Up With 50% Off Sweaters At Arden B.!

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Arden BAfter some much-needed down time during these holiday preparations, I am happy to share my latest post for Quickie Darling Deal & Steal, featuring the latest 50% off sale on select sweaters going on @Arden B. I’m all about posting the best looks, images, & articles that I find on Facebook by other fashion bloggers, & since it’s the weather is quite wintry here in New York, I’m excited about the idea of adding more sweaters to any wardrobe.

Arden BThe cowl neck asymmetrical sweater ($35.40) in passion is a flirty & fun version of an oversize knit to pair with leather leggings, skinny jeans, or straight leg pants.  The speckled foil sweater ($35.40) in black pattern is a dressy way to sport a sweater, perfect for wearing with a pencil skirt to a holiday party or with leggings & knee boots.  The criss cross draped sweater ($35.40) in charcoal is a relaxed way to show off your style & have the opportunity to wear a chunky collar necklace, a bold brooch, or ornate metallic earrings.  Lastly, the twisted ribbed sweater tunic ($35.40) in orange crush is the perfect knit for flattering your curves while on a date or having dinner with the girls.

Which sweaters are on your list to Santa? Do you have a favorite style of sweater to shop for? If you’re looking for more affordable style finds, be sure to check out previous posts, including my top picks of holiday skirts & trendy red suede ankle booties! Happy Styling!

The Stylish Five: Work A Holiday Skirt Into Your Wardrobe ($30 & Under)!

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I’ve been turning to heavier textures for my work & can’t wait to start putting looks together for upcoming holiday gatherings too! For me, if I’m not wearing a dress, then you can be sure that I’ve got a holiday-friendly skirt in mind. I love all different fabrics & accents, which is why I wanted to share my five picks to wear without breaking the bank. 

I love a good tweed & houndstooth is one of my favorite patterns & @Dress Barn the houndstooth ponte skirt ($29.50) is a great buy for that transition from day to night by changing up suede ballet flats to studded ankle booties. For an edgier look, you can find the faux leather skirt ($24.95) @H&M, which will coordinate well with lush silk blouses, embellished tanks, & preppy knits for some contrast.

For a more feminine look, break out a softer hue with the solid trimmed jacquard skirt ($22.80) from Forever 21 & try it with this season’s top color, oxblood, with a leather jacket & some textured tights.  For the real party girl, though this isn’t an office appropriate skirt, I love the i jeans by Buffalo feather skirt ($25.00), which JC Penney has just marked down from its original $100.00 price tag.  With such a statement skirt like this, keep your other pieces a little more basic, but work a collar necklace or some stacked bangles in for extra sparkle.  Lastly, Target is one of my favorite stores to shop & the Merona sweater skirt ($26.99) adds a splash of animal print to any lace peplum or sequin top.  The cozy material is sure to be comfortable, while still showing off your flair for fashion. 

 What’s your holiday style? Do you have a go-to look for that upcoming office party? Do you prefer skirts over dress pants? Check out more affordable style tips including the best vests of the season, a great date look for under $100, & the prettiest ways to dress up your nails! Happy Styling!

Top 10 Celeb Sightings: Going Glam On The Red Carpet Featuring Scarlett Johansson, Miranda Kerr, Amy Adams, & More!

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The holidays are in full swing now & I can’t think of a better way to start celebrating the festivities than to share the latest celebrity images for Top 10 Celeb Sightings. There are some really amazing movies coming out, including Les Miserables, Hitchcock, & Rust & Bone, as well as some upcoming television premieres like Girls, which means that there’s lots to keep an eye out for on Style Darling. Some of my favorites include Scarlett Johansson during an appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman in Giambattista Valli, Miranda Kerr‘s high-slit gown, Allison Williams in a stunning silver Naeem Khan gown, & Katy Perry‘s prettiest Dolce & Gabbana look.

Also, check out Amy Adams in Giorgio Armani, Emily Blunt in Calvin Klein Collection, Felicity Jones in Burberry Prorsum, Kate Mara in Jason Wu, Marion Cotillard in Christian Dior, & Selena Gomez in Dolce & Gabbana. Which look is your favorite? What upcoming red carpet events are you looking forward to this season?

For more from this category, be sure to click through galleries including Berenice Marlohe & Gwen Stefani, Lea Michele & Lauren Conrad, & Jessica Chastain & Taylor Swift! Happy Styling!

Inside A Style Blogger’s Closet: My Striped $8.00 Dress From JC Penney!

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Even when I’m not shopping for an amazing deal, one sneaks up on me. I made a recent trip to my local JC Penney b/c I was the happy recipient of a $10 reward (for being a cardmember & having used said card on more than one recent occasion), so I decided I was going to treat myself to a new silver chain for my latest variety of charms & pendants that I picked up from a craft store.  However, gravity pulled me toward the clearance dress section, which is where I found the Worthington mixed media dress ($8.00 in stores, $14.00 online). Before I get into talking about what I love about this dress, I gotta emphasize that if you have the opportunity to check a store & its website online, please do so b/c you never know where you’ll be getting the better deal.

Anyway, when I tried the dress on, the $8.00 price tag didn’t seem so great since the dress was very short- too short for comfort, but then when I cinched in its sort of boxy shape with a belt & considered leggings & some boots, I knew I was in business.  Unfortunately I wasn’t able to snap myself a shot in this outfit (& I’ve worn it twice!), but I can say that I love the tunic look to it, as well as the uber-flattering lines that help emphasize my shape.

I did manage to get the chain I was looking for, as well as this dress & a few additional must-have clearance finds for under $10, but I’m a guilt-free shopper knowing that I’ve added to my fall-winter wardrobe & can’t wait to see what else I can find when I least expect it! Happy Styling!

The Stylish Five: Invest In The Best Vests This Season (Under $25)!

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It’s definitely time to bundle up with the layers & unless you’re headed on a tropical vacation, take it from me, this season is all about adding that one last finishing touch. In this case, I’m talking about vests. I was a little reluctant to integrate them into my wardrobe, but if you’re seeking a rocker look, something bohemian, or a vintage feel, vests can help achieve this & make some older wardrobe staples refreshed & reinvented.

Keeping a budget in mind, I’ve selected five vests all under $25! First, the cap-sleeve leopard denim vest ($14.49) from Charlotte Russe is a recent markdown that’s perfect for making any graphic tee more stylish with boyfriend jeans & pointed toe neon pumps. A vest for work is always chic, especially over a solid blouse or classic button-down & I recommend the FANG openwork sweater vest ($21.99) in slate from Kohl’s which includes a belt & is also sold in other neutral hues like oat, & black.

To offset any chic all-black look, head over to Forever 21 for the metallic coated denim vest ($24.80) which will take you from a luncheon with family to drinks with the girls at a bar. If you want to try on the military-inspired trend by taking a baby step, Old Navy‘s twill cargo vest ($24.97) is perfect for adding a utilitarian feel with stripes, or even to dress down a pencil skirt.  Also, this is available in sizes XS – XXL! Lastly, I found the wearever cascade vest ($24.99) from J.Jill, which is a lighter & more feminine way to show off layers over a polka dot blouse & a lace mini skirt.

Do you like to wear vests? How do you style them? What’s your favorite part about layering? For more posts on budget-friendly styles, check out affordable sweaters inspired by Rose Byrne & Jessica Alba, a work-to-evening look for under $100, & beautiful studs from Piperlime! Happy Styling!