Beauty Buys: Hurricane Sandy Can’t Stop Your Nails From Sparkling!

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Local schools, universities, offices, & transit is already cancelled for tomorrow, while we’re waiting for this hurricane to make a mess out of the Northeast (for those of you who don’t know, Style Darling is based out of New York’s very suburban Long Island).  I figured I’d get a jump on posting blogs for my lucky readers to indulge in since they’ll have power & alas, I won’t.

My family has stocked up on water, ice, batteries, & clock radios, but I’m not worried about how I will spend my time should the power go out.  Of course, I wouldn’t dream of recommending to anyone that polishing your nails is an essential part of hurricane survival, but here’s a little advice for when the daylight in upon us & there’s not much to do when the television & internet is down.

I’ve been keeping an eye out on the latest trends in nail art, especially since that’s the fashion-related hashtag read around the world. No matter where you live, what language you speak, or what your style is, there’s nail art for everyone. I’m a big fan of sparkles, especially this season & I don’t have time to change my nail color daily. I’m no basic pink-fingered Style Darling, but I like something that can be re-touched without any hassle… which brings me to the Gem Crush collection by Sally Hansen ($6.99) from Ulta.

You can find Sally Hansen at any drug store (Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid, as well as Target or Walmart), but I love shopping for any & all beauty products at Ulta since I’m a member & receive tons of weekly coupons ranging from $3.50 off a $10 purchase, $5 off a $10 purchase, or 20% off any item.

The Gem Crush line includes dazzling hues like (from left-to-right, as seen above) Show Girl Chic, Cha-Ching, Big Money, Bling-tastic, Be-Jeweled, Razzle Dazzler, Lady Luck, & Glitz Gal. I haven’t picked a favorite, but if you were wondering, I’m currently sporting Big Money on my fingers & Razzle Dazzler on my toes! For more about Style Darling’s nails, be sure to check out the latest updates on Instagram (@MissAlissaL)! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: New York & Company’s BOGO FREE Sweater Sale- Today ONLY!

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I was pleasantly surprised to receive the following email from New York & Company today, although I won’t be going out shopping, but the sale for Buy One Get One FREE on sweaters is going on TODAY ONLY, in stores & online! I’ve picked out a variety of must-have sweaters to complete your everyday & office looks this fall & winter.

This includes the knot-front pull-over sweater ($22.47), leopard print v-neck sweater ($36.95), lurex button-sleeve boat-neck sweater ($46.95), three-quarter sleeve long cardigan ($44.95), sequin cable trimmed cardigan ($52.95), deco print v-neck cardigan ($49.95), & the cable front v-neck sweater ($49.95).

Do you prefer v-neck or scoop neck sweaters? How do you like to wear cardigans? Do you match them or select bold colors to brighten up neutrals? Happy Styling!

Top 10 Celeb Sightings: Menswear, Pajamas, Leather & Lace, & Plaid Trends As Seen On Taylor Swift, Krysten Ritter, & Jaime King!

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After what’s starting out to be a party-filled weekend, I can’t help but look back at the headline-making red carpet appearances from the last week. Of course, I’m headed to birthday parties & Halloween celebrations, not galas, premieres, or press events, but there’s also prepping for this nasty hurricane in the hopes that it simply whispers passed Long Island & the rest of the Northeast. So if you’re not talking about Sandy, start talking about style.  Some of my favorite looks include major trends seen on & off the runway recently, teaching us budget shoppers how to make it work.

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However, if you’re a celebrity, or have a very talented stylist, the chic pajama look, as seen on Jaime King, may not be such a stretch.  Also, Taylor Swift is plugging her latest album, Red, wearing a vibrant red top & plaid tea-length skirt, paying homage to her Southern following.  Not to mention that the always lovely Lauren Conrad is mixing it up with a leather dress by Johanna Johnson with some fierce Christian Louboutins.  Where’s there’s leather, there’s also lace & by that, I mean a sizzling silver-coated Halle Berry in Dolce & Gabbana, as well as a corseted overlay Jason Wu look worn by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.

If you’re trying to recreate menswear, look to No Doubt frontwoman & fashion icon Gwen Stefani for her Gucci & satin sexy tuxedo look, frosted in Neil Lane, as well as Don’t Trust The B**** In Apartment 23 star Krysten Ritter whose military-inspired jacket by Robert Rodriguez, paired with sandals from Rachel Zoe Collection screams fall-friendly.  Speaking of K’s… Kristen Stewart‘s graphic romper by Louis Vuitton is modern & edgy for the budding Style Darling in Brian Atwoods.

I couldn’t forget about newcomer Berenice Marlohe, of Skyfall, in the ravishing Elie Saab confection, as well as red carpet favorite, Sarah Jessica Parker in a sophisticated striped design by L’Wren Scott with Fred Leighton jewelry.

Who’s wearing your favorite look? Which of these celebrities do you follow on the red carpet? For more from Top 10 Celeb Sightings, be sure to check out posts featuring Emma Stone & Lea Michele, Jennifer Lopez, & Scarlett Johansson, & Amy Adams & Nicole Richie! Happy Styling!

Show Me The Shoes: The Must-Have Booties For Fall From Payless!

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There’s nothing I love more about fall than booties, which reminds me to share with readers that I’ve been featuring some of my favorite footwear picks this season on Style Darling‘s Instagram (@MissAlissaL).  I’m not afraid of color this season, however sometimes you need neutrals to make the other essential pieces in your outfit pop, which is where these shoes come in.

Sometimes also known as shooties, I love the strong look behind these ultra sleek shoes, which offer enough length in the legline, as well as a luxe texture.  The Fioni vice bootie ($49.99) from Payless has a stellar 4-inch heel, perfect for pairing with any patterned tights look & a pencil skirt for the office, embossed leggings & a tunic sweater, & a cardigan with dark denim jeans.

Of course, $49.99 is on the higher side of prices for Payless, but if you sign up for emails from Payless, you’ll receive updates on sales, coupon codes, & the latest markdowns! There’s no doubt that these are shoes are a smart investment for your fall / winter wardrobe, which will last for future seasons to come! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Banana Republic’s Anna Karenina-Inspired Collection Arrives October 30th!

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My anticipation for Anna Karenina has extended beyond Style Darling in that I’ve been writing about it for Movie Buzzers, tweeting (@MissAlissaL) as many spoilers as possible, & even sharing images from magazines on Instagram. We’re one step closer to the film, which premieres on November 16th, with the inspired collection for Banana Republic. I started talking about this back in July, which is when the trailer first hit the internet & earlier this month, I featured 8 new movie posters for the romantic drama. Stars Keira Knightley, Jude Law, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Alicia Vikander, & Kelly Macdonald were lucky enough to be dripping in luxury with the film’s costumes, but now, Banana Republic’s upcoming collection offers a modern take on the Russian decadence.  The gallery, courtesy of In Style, includes both women’s & men’s look, ranging in price from $29.50 – $250.00, & will be available in stores for purchase on October 30th! Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Check Out Project Runway Winner Dmitry Sholokhov’s Winning Collection & Casting Session For Season 10!

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I’m a big SUPER big fan of Project Runway & season 10 has been an exciting run for the designers.  I was rooting for Christopher Palu (a Long Island native, like myself) the whole time, but alas, his collection was not as victorious as Dmitry Sholokhov‘s, who was crowned the winner.  His strong collection was the clear winner, impressing judges Heidi Klum, Michael Kors, Nina Garcia, & guest judge Jennifer Hudson.

During New York Fashion Week, I featured the entire season 10 finale runway gallery in a previous Runway Rundown post, which is where you can see Dmitry’s polished presentation.  However, in celebration of his win, I’ve found a video of his original casting session with previous Project Runway victors, Seth Aaron Henderson & Mondo Guerra.

Stay tuned next week on Lifetime for more from Project Runway since the exciting second season of All-Stars in starting! Did your favorite designer win last night? Which collection were you most impressed by? Do you think the judges got it right? Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Stuart Weitzman’s Third Episode With The DAGGER Pumps!

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Yes, another Wednesday has passed, which means that it’s time for the third installment of Stuart Weitzman‘s “Walking After Midnight” series, featuring model Petra Nemcova, as directed by James Franco. In this vignette, Petra is donning the Dagger pump ($375.00 – $385.00), walking down the city streets in nothing but some hot pants & a boyfriend blazer.  After the first two videos, I’m not sure what else to expect since we have at least one more video to anticipate. Perhaps what would have been really fantastic is a mash-up of all of the videos?  Check out to links for Episode 1 & Episode 2! Happy Styling!

10/19/2012 Darling Of The Day / The $100 Challenge: Freida Pinto’s All-Black, Affordable Look!

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Even though colorblocking is still a big trend for fall, there are also a lot of monochromatic looks happening on the runways, red carpets, as well as the street.  Of course, you have to pick the right hue to pull off the look effectively, but one color that is exceptionally flattering & seasonal is black.

Slumdog Millionaire actress Freida Pinto always looks beautiful & polished.  As the constant epitome of feminine style, I was surprised to see her all-black menswear-inspired ensemble, but then I realized that it was such a great template for a streamlined & affordable look.  The essential relaxed blouse ($19.80) from Forever 21 was a natural fit to work with this outfit, & can be paired with any office, day, or date look.  Throw this on with your wildest metallic leggings, sequined mini skirt, or favorite boyfriend jeans & you’ve instantly got a timeless piece working with your wardrobe no matter the season!

I’ve been eyeing Old Navy‘s rockstar super skinny jeans ($29.50) & even picked up a similar pair in forest green, but these black skinnies are the perfect way to show off your shape if your top has some volume to it.  Also, these jeans are available in an assortment of playful hues & a variety of sizes, while select colors are even marked down to $22.50! Lastly, GOjane was my first stop when it came to finding textured heels.  The woven design leatherette pumps ($26.10) offer a subtle touch of detail without breaking up the monochromatic feel, or taking away from it.

Of course if all-black isn’t your thing (& it really shouldn’t be more than maybe once a month), punch up this look with an embellished cardigan, silk blazer, metallic pumps, or statement gemstones.  This post also qualifies for The $100 Challenge in that the total (before taxes) comes to $75.40, which means that if you’re looking to spend only $100, there’s still room for enhancement with a studded clutch & drop earrings!

**I’d like to take a moment to send a special thanks out to graphic designer / musician / photographer, Nino Vlacich (not to mention boyfriend extraordinaire), for giving me a wonderful one-on-one Photoshop tutorial, without which this blog & a few previous ones would not so stylishly exist! ❤ **

Would you rock an all-black look? Do you already own pieces like this in your wardrobe? For more Darling of the Day posts, check out Olivia Wilde, Olivia Palermo, & Anne Hathaway! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Lauren Conrad’s 2012 Holiday Collection For Kohl’s!

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I’m keeping my eye on Kohl’s this season, especially considering the luxurious finds in the upcoming DesigNation collection by Narciso Rodriguez.  Also, designer-author-former-reality-star Lauren Conrad continues to share her latest holiday collection for Kohl’s, featuring party dresses, metallic accented separates, feminine tops, & sexy platforms. Instead of my usual gallery of images, I’m sharing these eleven must-have looks with readers, as well as a special 10% off code (UBLOGTEN) to use for online purchases until October 24th.

Which is your favorite look? Do you often shop the LC by Lauren Conrad collection for Kohl’s? Have you started your holiday wardrobe shopping yet? Happy Styling!

Top 10 Celeb Sightings: Ladylike Luxury Featuring Emma Roberts, Lauren Conrad, Solange Knowles, & More!

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Style Darling has been looking really good these days, but that’s not all there is to talk about when it comes to fashion.  In this latest edition of Top 10 Celeb Sightings, I’m happy to share some of the most demure, elegant, & chic looks that I’ve seen in a quite some time.  My favorites include Gwyneth Paltrow in a black cut-out Michael Kors dress, singer Solange Knowles in a floral Dolce & Gabbana frock, & Nina Dobrev in a lovely lace Vera Wang design.

Other featured looks include Emma Roberts in black & white, Emma Stone‘s pink Valentino look, Emmy Rossum‘s feminine & leather outfit, Lauren Conrad in yellow at a book signing, Glee star Lea Michele‘s slinky black column gown, socialite Olivia Palermo‘s mixed pattern ensemble, & Sarah Jessica Parker‘s modern Calvin Klein strapless number.

Which looks are your favorite? Which celebrities do you follow when they’re on the red carpet? Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Part Two of Brad Pitt’s Chanel No. 5 Commercial!

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It was only Monday when the full-length video commercial for Chanel No. 5 was revealed, starring a black & white, monotoned, monologue-toting Brad Pitt. Critics were underwhelmed by the recitation since he naturally doesn’t seem like a good fit for the brand, which had been previously endorsed by the elegant likes of Nicole Kidman & Keira Knightley.  However, a sequel video has been released, more in a dazzling commercial format, revealing a more suitable & feminine side to the fragrance’s portrayal.  Perhaps just sticking to Brad’s voice-over will make for a more effective campaign? What do you think of this second video? Are you a fan of the timeless perfume? Happy Styling!

Ad Madness: Scarlett Johansson Heads To Broadway In ‘Cat On A Hot Tin Roof!’

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I was super excited when I read my email this morning & discovered that Tony-winning actress Scarlett Johansson was returning to Broadway next year.  She’s headlining a revival of Tennessee Williams’ iconic drama, Cat On A Hot Tin Roof, which had been famously brought to the big screen with legends Elizabeth Taylor & Paul Newman.  Previews for the play begin December 18th & it will open for the public on January 17th, which means that tickets will go quick for this 15-week limited-time run.

A few years ago, I saw Scarlett make her Broadway debut in Arthur Miller’s A View From The Bridge, which took my breath away, thus leading to her Tony win, so you can be sure that I’m going to do everything in my power to get a ticker (& an affordable one) to catch one of my favorite plays of all time, starring one of my favorite actresses!

You may be asking, where’s the style in all of this? Well, for those of you who don’t know, the play’s protagonist, Maggie the Cat, is famous for wearing a seductive slip dress for most of the play & we can keep an eye out on Scarlett’s red carpet appearances while promoting her latest dramatic effort.  Happy Styling!

Cover Craze: W’s 40th Anniversary Calls on Scarlett Johansson, Rooney Mara, Keira Knightley, & Mia Wasikowska!

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I’ve been posting a lot recently about the latest in magazine covers b/c they just keep getting better & better as the months go on.  I’m a former subscriber to W, but still love to check out what the high-fashion periodical is up to.  The magazine is celebrating its 40th anniversary & have shared the beautiful faces of Rooney Mara, Mia Wasikowska, Scarlett Johansson, & Keira Knightley on four different covers, representing each decade. Rooney is donning Prada for the 1970s, Mia looks neon in Balenciaga for the 1980s, Scarlett is goth in Dolce & Gabbana for the 1990s, & Keira looks polished & golden in Chanel for the 2000s.  Which cover is your favorite? What do you think of W‘s choice of actresses to grace each cover? Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: A Black & White Brad Pitt For Chanel No. 5!

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Twitter has been a-buzz all week since the eight second audio clip of Brad Pitt for Chanel No. 5 ($120.00) was released.  Now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for has arrived with the full video, featuring the four-time Oscar-nominated actor in black & white, reciting an obscure monologue entitled “There You Are.” Directed by the Anna Karenina-helmed visionary, Joe Wright, Brad’s $7 million ad has certainly paid off since this is first time a male spokesmodel has endorsed anything for Chanel.  Brad’s face & voice join the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Catherine Deneuve, Nicole Kidman, & most recently Keira Knightley (see Coco Mademoiselle here) who have all fronted the brand in the past.

What do you think of the ad? Is Brad Pitt a good fit for Chanel? Would you like to have seen something different for such an iconic fragrance? For more ads starring celebrities, be sure to check out posts including Petra Nemcova’s “Walking After Midnight” for Stuart Weitzman, Kirsten Dunst’s Bvlgari Mon Jasmin Noir Film, & Lana Del Rey for H&M! Happy Styling!

Cover Craze: The November Vogue Cover Reveals A Red Hot Rihanna!

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Fashion Week may be over, but magazine covers never cease to amaze, especially considering that red-hot singer Rihanna has returned to Vogue for a second time, gracing the front page in a feminine lace frock by Valentino for November’s Vogue cover.  Acclaimed photographer Annie Leibovitz is behind the high glamour shoot, which include the wondrous images below.  The newly pixie-cutted pop star talks to Vogue about Chris Brown, a rumored romance with Robert Pattinson, among other fabulous celebrity things.  For more mag-friendly posts, check out more from Cover Craze with Taylor Swift for Glamour & Sofia Vergara for Lucky.  Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Stuart Weitzman’s 2nd Video for “Walking After Midnight,” Directed By James Franco!

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Last week, I very promptly shared with readers the debut short film, directed by Oscar-nominated actor James Franco, for shoe designer, Stuart Weitzman, to the tune of Patsy Cline’s “Walking After Midnight.” The first of four episodes in the series was called The Backflip, & now for the encore vignette, which is called Closecall.

I love the slim, super sexy heel on the shoes worn by model Petra Nemcova, which I think would be hard to stay balanced in, but sometimes you just gotta wear amazing shoes, even if you know you’ve got somewhere to go.  Check out the video & wait til Wednesday, October 17th for the 3rd installation of videos! Happy Styling!

Silver Screen Style: 8 New Posters For Anna Karenina Starring Keira Knightley!

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Back in July, I posted the trailer for one of the most anticipated movies of the year, Anna Karenina, starring Keira Knightley as the lead, in a decadent reimagining of Leo Tolstoy’s classic novel.  It’s one of my favorite books & I can’t wait to see it on the big screen- not to mention all the circulating buzz behind the fashion in the film.  Banana Republic has created a line inspired by the film’s ornate, luxury costumes & now, we have 8 new posters (see below) which show off director ‘s various ways that love exists in the period piece.

Also, if you happen to be in London at the end of the month, you will be able to get a first-hand look at the gorgeous costumes, designed by Jacqueline Durran, from the film at the Victoria & Albert Museum, as a part of the Hollywood Costume exhibit.

The film, which also stars Jude Law, premieres November 16th, perfect timing for the upcoming awards season.  Are you going to see this movie? Do you have any interest in seeing Keira play another dramatic period role? Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Narciso Rodriguez’s New Collection For Kohl’s DesigNation!

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Kohl’s has moved up the mainstream fashion ranks with celebrity designers like Vera Wang (Simpy Vera Vera Wang), Lauren Conrad (LC by Lauren Conrad), & Jennifer Lopez (Jennifer Lopez), so naturally the retailer is going to expand on the success of its stylish collection.  The newest addition to the Kohl’s family comes from Narciso Rodriguez with DesigNation.  I’ve put together a gallery of the looks, which range in price from $30.00 – $150.00, & includes voluminous coats, holiday sheaths with body conscious lines, work separates, & casual wear. Now through October 24th, use code UBLOGTEN to get 10% off on this collection, as well as other Kohl’s fashions!

For those of you who don’t know, Narciso Rodriguez is a big pretty big deal in the fashion industry, having worked with the likes of Salma Hayek Pinault, Claire Danes, Jessica Alba, & Kate Winslet. The line will be available in stores & online in November, which means it’s time to keep an eye out on those amazing 30% off coupons that Kohl’s is known for.  Which looks are your favorite? Happy Styling!

Splurge or Save… On Spiked Bracelets?

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Spiked bracelets are no longer for the goth at heart.  This edgy fall trend is revamping the way shoppers style their fall wardrobes.  I’m excited to share five different, but equally as stylish spiked bracelets that I’ve searched the web for, ranging in price from super splurge-worthy to a money-saving option for the Style Darling on a budget.

@Piperlime, I found the CC Skye Mercy spike bracelet ($185.00), which can be layered with other gold bangles for a daring way to amp up an LBD look.  The gold points can also juxtapose any gauze or lacy outfits if you’re mixing this with a soft, feminine sheath dress.  Also, one of my favorite sites to check out jewelry is Bauble Bar, which is where I found the glam cone cuff ($48.00) in a rose gold hue, which is certainly my favorite piece of the quintet in this edition of Splurge or Save. 

For those who aren’t afraid to make a style statement with bold jewelry, then the Christel’s long gold metal spike bracelet ($37.95) from Fantasy Jewelry Box is an investment piece that’ll add an extra splash of spice to a casual look in a graphic tee with leather shorts or can really pop to wear at a cocktail party with a cut-out dress.  @ASOS, I found a subtler piece with the double spike bracelet ($10.55), which featured spikes on the inside & outside of the bracelet.  Again, here’s a sweet rose gold finish to accentuate a mixed metal look when paired with silver, gold, & copper.  Lastly, the spikes & rhinestones bangle set ($7.80) offers a two-in-one look, offering evidence that once again, you can rely on Forever 21 for the most value in fashionable accessories. 

Of course, I’ve chosen a selection that includes a bangle, cuff, stretchy, & clasp bracelet, but that just goes to show how versatile the spike bracelet trend is becoming.  Do you like any of these bracelets? Can you find a way to wear spikes everyday or for more fabulous occasions? How much are you willing to invest in your jewelry?

For more affordablr & fashionable posts, check out necklaces for under $20, chic black & white outfits, & dresses from HauteLook for under $30! Happy Styling!

The Stylish Five: Must-Have Necklaces From Forever 21 (Under $20)!

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One of the best trends that isn’t just going away, & why should it?, is a statement necklace. In the last year, I’ve been trying to experiment with new necklaces to coordinate with any variety of workplace, day, & night looks.  One of my favorite stores to find affordable accessories is Forever 21, which is where I’ve been drooling over these five necklaces, all under $20.00, which will help transform & amplify any outfit. Typically I like to wear long necklaces with a bunch of charms, but I’m excited about exploring the collar & bib necklace trend.  The sparkling charm necklace ($19.80) is a feminine & elegant explosion of sparkle, perfect for any LBD outfit or cocktail sheath.  For a rich pop of color, I selected the oval collar necklace ($12.80), especially to wear with a button-down shirt, cardigan & blouse, or basic white t-shirt with jeggings.

When I saw the teardrop bib necklace ($12.80), I immediately thought of the pop of turquoise that Eva Mendes wore at the 2009 Golden Globes with the white Dior gown, as styled by Rachel Zoe.  This is the perfect piece to help transition your lighter summer pieces into the fall/winter season.  The snake chain swag necklace ($10.80) is a metallic & minimalist way to dress up your look without overdoing the glitz & glam.  Try wearing it with a monochromatic look in all burgundy, navy, or mustard.

For something sweet, I adore the cupcake & heart necklace ($1.50) for not just its cuteness, but also it’s a piece that I connect with since (when I’m not working, or blogging, or enjoying the final year of my twenties) I’m a baker as well.  It’s a playful accent to wear with a graphic tee & dark wash jeans, or when headed out for a picnic in a denim skirt, knee boots, & chunky knit.

Which necklace would you wear? What kind of jewelry are you attracted to? How much do you invest in fashion jewelry? Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Louis Vuitton’s Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection From Paris Fashion Week!

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I’m all about style on a budget, but I think it’s very important to stay informed about what’s going on right now in fashion & which trends are worth following, straight from the runways at Paris Fashion Week.  The name Louis Vuitton is synonymous with the LV logo on bags, wallets, & luggage; however, the latest Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection shows a new side of the label with extra bold colors, rich sparkles, nautical-inspired stripes, & an ode to British mod style.  Models hit the catwalk in pairs, wearing coordinated looks & I can’t wait to see some of my favorite celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence, Dakota Fanning, Anne Hathaway, & Bella Heathcote wearing these designs as we get closer to spring, even though fall has just begun.  Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Kirsten Dunst Returns To Bvlgari For Fragrance Film, Mon Jasmin Noir!

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Actress Kirsten Dunst wasn’t scared off during her previous shoot for Bvlgari‘s Mon Jasmin Noir fragrance ad while sauntering around a very un-cowardly lion. She’s returned to the luxury brand for a revamped short film, staring with her sultry blue eyes into the camera & wearing a black lace-accented frock. Also, the bejeweled spokesmodel looks more effortlessly gorgeous than ever, channeling the Old Hollywood starlet Grace Kelly.

The fragrance film trend isn’t going away, as seen with videos featured in Watch This Style, including Natalie Portman for Miss Dior Le Parfum, Alexander Skarsgård for Calvin Klein’s Encounter, Julia Roberts for Lancome’s La Vie Est Belle, & Blake Lively for Gucci Premiere! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Elie Saab’s Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection From Paris Fashion Week!

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I’m continuing to bring readers all the latest runway galleries from Paris Fashion Week, including one of the most gorgeous that I’ve seen so far & that’s from the always feminine, ethereal, & chic Elie Saab.  The designer, who is best known for dressing Rachel McAdams, Jessica Biel, Taylor Swift, & Berenice Bejo, shares a very elegant collection, full of monochromatic looks with plenty of lace & silk to go around.  Surely, these runway looks are beyond the budget of any price tag conscious Style Darling, but if you’re looking to shop the brand, check out Neiman Marcus, Boutique 1, Bergdorf Goodman, & Nordstrom!

To click through more to-die-for galleries from Runway Rundown, take a look at previous posts including Alexander McQueen, Tom Ford, & Yves Saint Laurent! Happy Styling!

Color Me Style: What’s Black & White & Chic All Over?

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My last post in Color Me Style was published just days before my trip to Italy earlier this year, so I thought that since I don’t have a third go-around to look forward to for 2013, I’d revisit the category in a way only appropriate for this Style Darling. My favorite color combination is black & white, which is what I’m featuring- although quite impressed with the fall collections that celebrities are sporting since this season doesn’t typically see all-white looks.  Of course, the beach-filled party days of summer are long gone, but white is still thriving, black has never looked better, & when you put them together, there’s a serious style moment happening.

It wasn’t very hard to find some celebrity inspiration for these colors & this is what I’m sharing. Gwyneth Paltrow looks demure & ladylike in a white knit, wool Misha Nonoo skirt with bright Sergio Rossi pumps. It-girl Olivia Wilde is bold-shouldered in a figure-flattering LWD, House of Lavande jewelry, & metallic platform pumps. 666 Park Avenue star Rachael Taylor wears a head-to-toe Calvin Klein Collection look, including silver lace-up heels & a box clutch. British actress Felicity Jones looks flirty & cool in an all-black sweater & skirt outfit with bowed pumps at the Miu Miu show. Olivia Palermo continues to catch my eye in an all-black leather Dior look with Giuseppe Zanotti pumps. Modern Family bombshell Sofia Vergara shows off her curves in her Sofia by Sofia Vergara for KMart black sparkling dress with tights & suede platforms.

As for black & white looks, I love the variety here when it comes to feminine dresses, vintage-inspiration, as well as nods to menswear with separates all in my favorite color combination! Jessica Alba goes androgynous sexy in a Narciso Rodriguez blouse with loose-fitting trousers & cap-toe Jimmy Choo pumps. French import Laetitia Costa shows the softness of a slim-fitting black suit & sandals, all by Dolce & Gabbana. The sultry Penelope Cruz is elegant & statuesque in an embroidered black & white cardigan by L’Wren Scott with cuffed trousers & Salvatore Ferragamo pumps. Rock of Ages actress / former Dancing with the Stars dancer Julianne Hough is mod in a black & white mini dress with silver pumps at a Henri Bendel party. Scandal star Kerry Washington is as pretty as ever in a white feminine sheath dress with black accents, rose gold Anita Ko studs, & metallic cap-toe pumps.

Black & white has also made the Spring 2013 runways, with especially fabulous designs from Dolce & Gabbana, Giorgio Armani, Chloe, Yves Saint Laurent, Carolina Herrera, & Catherine Malandrino Black Label.

Naturally, I’m excited to share with readers how you can achieve the perfect black & white looks while on a budget. From LOFT, you can find the polka dot wedge top ($39.99), or if you’re looking for a more streamlined look, try New York & Company‘s contrast trim banded collar blouse ($39.95) which will pop against any pencil skirt, colored jean, or slim leg pant.  For a more feminine touch, I love the dolled-up darling ruffled bow blouse ($28.99) from Ruche, which I’d wear to work with a lacy tweed skirt & textured tights, or for a fun night with the girls wearing my favorite dark wash jeans & metallic sandals.

However, if you’re looking to add an unexpected edge to any fall/winter ensemble, try the Danielle seamless skirt ($12.48) in white from G by Guess, which is also available in black.  Also, I’m always a big fan of zebra, which is why I picked the knee-length zebra print skirt ($19.80) from Forever 21. Black & white dresses are perfect for any occasion, especially with a modern graphic print or something in a classic polka dot.  I love the Ronnie & Nicole short-sleeve mitered stripe dress ($35.00) from JC Penney & White House Black Market‘s strapless dot dress ($29.99). Also, Superfly flats ($49.00) from Nine West are a fun touch for the office or a day date, especially when worn with brighter pieces like skinny cords or dark denim jeans.

How do you like to wear black & white? Do you prefer one color over the other? Which staples in these colors do you wear for day & night? For more posts on affordable & fashionable finds, check out posts from Quickie Darling Deal & Steal, Fabulous in 4 Ways, The $100 Challenge, & Splurge or Save! Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Christina Aguilera’s New Video For “Your Body!”

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I’ve come to notice that when I say I’m excited about something, I usually say I’m super excited, but why would I share anything less with my readers? For those of you who haven’t caught Christina Aguilera‘s newest music video for “Your Body,” off her upcoming album Lotus, due out November 13th, I’m sharing the fun dance-heavy track in all of its Stripped & 80s-inspired flavor! Of course the Grammy winner has been making headline lately for her weight gain, but she’s embracing her curves & in my opinion, she looks damn good in this video!

The Voice coach dons leopard leggings, a mini black dress, denim & tie-dye, a “Rich Bitch” collar necklace, & layers of lingerie. Also, her hair pays tribute to those Stripped days with braids, funky & fun bursts of color á la Nicki Minaj & Katy Perry, but Christina’s also got some feminine curls, nodding to the Lucille Ball reference at the end of the video.  Take a look & share with your Xtina fan friends! What do you think of Christina’s fuller figure? Are you pre-ordering her latest album? Happy Styling!