The Stylish Five: Last Day Of Summer Sale Items ($15.00 & Under)!

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Today is officially the last day of summer & tomorrow starts the fall. I’ve probably never been so sad to see the summer end (even though I’m crazy for suede & booties right now). It was an especially lovely season, partly b/c I was a free bird all over Long Island & had a great time with my boyfriend & friends.  Of course, now that my birthday is over & I’m back to school (working for one & no longer a student!), I still can’t get those last-minute summer deals out of my mind.  I didn’t have to look very hard to find these five very stylish pieces to include for a special post, all for $15.00 or under!

First, the racerback rugby stripes tank ($1.99) from Forever 21 is perfect to wear still, but for fall, you have to keep in mind that fall is all about layering.  This bright pop of color can be worn under a button-down shirt & sweater vest or cardigan.  Of course, yellow isn’t necessarily the color of the season, but it’s still fun to add against something red or cobalt!  Also, even though here on the east cost, it’s getting too chilly even during the day for shorts, but if you’re headed on vacation soon or traveling south where the summer sun is still beaming, check out the patterned shorts ($15.00) from Old Navy that are available in dark tone chambray (pictured above), as well as navy stripe & green stripe.

I love checking out what’s going on @J.Crew, which is where I found the perfect-fit tee ($14.99) in light blade & deep turquoise, however you’ll also be able to score this tee is spice for $9.99.  These colors are fun to mix up by colorblocking with a pencil skirt, trousers, or leggings & some chunky, oversized accessories or printed scarves.  For those who love daring prints, check out the floral/houndstooth printed mirror t-shirt dress ($12.00) from Windsor Store, which is a mini that calls for opaque tights & a boyfriend blazer.  I’m not saying you have to hide your shape in this flattering frock, but another way to keep it seasonal & fresh is by adding a belt & a knit cardigan.

Lastly, I’m crazy for the American Eagle sparkling flip-flop ($6.00 – $9.99) from Payless.  This pewter hue is higher in price, but they’re available in eleven other colors to help fulfill all of your flip-flop needs, especially if you’re headed for a hot tub or looking to something with some sheen for next season! What are you shopping for on this last day of summer? Do you have a favorite store where you love to shop clearance? Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: The Trailer For Lifetime’s “Liz & Dick” Starring Lindsay Lohan As Elizabeth Taylor!

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The world keeps giving Lindsay Lohan another chance, even though her reckless behavior & poor attempts at a comeback keep making headlines, but here’s something to chew on. We all heard that the Lifetime network cast the Long Island native in Liz & Dick, where Lindsay plays the late & great Elizabeth Taylor, opposite Grant Bowler (previously seen in Ugly Betty as Vanessa Williams’ character’s boyfriend, Connor) as twice-divorced husband, Richard Burton. Well, by the looks of the trailer for the TV movie, Lindsay can certainly pull off the black wig, overdone eye makeup, & vintage clothing, but we’ll have to see an actual scene before we can judge her in the role. Of course, we’ll have to wait until November, but here’s a taste of the long-awaited portrayal.

For more from Watch This Style, check out previous posts, including Lana Del Rey’s music video for H&M & Scarlett Johansson’s latest cosmetics commercial for Dolce & Gabbana! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Marios Schwab’s Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection From London Fashion Week!

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I’m always checking out the latest in what celebrities are wearing & always manage to find myself looking at dresses designed by Marios Schwab, a London-based designer who just unrolled his latest Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection for London Fashion Week! I’ve put together a gallery of the collection, which featured details like pleated skirts, sheer fabric, & leather panels, as well as a strong color palette with red, blue, & black dresses. The edgy pieces include sequins & fringe, perfect for making a bold statement on the red carpet.  I can see celebs like Elizabeth Olsen, Chloe Sevigny, & Leighton Meester wearing some of these looks.  Which are your favorite pieces? Which designers have you been checking out during fashion week? Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Burberry Prorsum’s Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection From London Fashion Week!

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In keeping with the fabulous celebration of London Fashion Week, I knew I had to share the Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection from Burberry Prorsum. The sophisticated line includes metallic sheen fabrics, bright pops of color, lacy tops, peplum hemlines, reinvented trench coats, & plenty of figure-flattering belted looks! If you didn’t know Burberry Prorsum has been worn on the red carpet by celebrities like Olivia Palermo, Leighton Meester, Gwyneth Paltrow, & Kate Bosworth.  For more Runway Rundown galleries, check out the latest from Christopher Kane, Jason Wu, & Christian Siriano! Happy Styling!

Watch This Style / Ad Madness: Lana Del Rey’s “Blue Velvet” Video For H&M!

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A month ago, I shared images of Lana Del Rey‘s latest venture, her ad campaign for H&M, featuring vintage-inspired looks & a gorgeous pink angora sweater! Now, the music video for the campaign has hit the web & Style Darling is excited to share the full-length version of her cover of “Blue Velvet.” Check out H&M for store locations & to price the items featured in the video. For more celebrity-fronted ads, check out Scarlett Johansson for Dolce & Gabbana & Julia Roberts for Lancome! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Christopher Kane’s Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection From London Fashion Week!

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Of course, New York Fashion Week has ended, but that only means that the rest of the world is reeling with joy over the continuous wave of fashion, including London. The city is seeing lots of designers embracing the lightness of spring, as seen in the fabulous Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection.  Scottish-born designer, Christopher Kane, has been favored on the red carpet by celebrities like Anne Hathaway, Alexa Chung, Chloe Grace Moretz, & Shailene Woodley.

Take a look at the gallery to see the collection that’s filled with whites, pastels, & plenty of feminine flair.  For more looks featured in Runway Rundown, check out Jason Wu, the Season 10 Project Runway finale collections, & Holmes & Yang! Happy Styling!

Cover Craze: Six Fabulous Mags Featuring The Faces Of Emma Watson, Britney Spears, Gwen Stefani, & More!

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I couldn’t decide which October 2012 issue to feature in my next Cover Craze post, so I searched the web for a bunch of covers, which helps cover a lot of bases. Anyway, I’ve just about finished filing through the heaps of pages from the ripe September issues & can now start sorting through what October has to bring, especially considering the fact that we’re nearing the official start of fall this weekend! I’ve selected only 6 October issues so far b/c this is what I’ve received in the mail & I’m still super anxious to see what’s going on with In Style, Shape, Harper’s Bazaar, & Allure.

Be sure to check out Nashville star Hayden Panettiere on the cover of Women’s Health, where she talks about how she’s dealt with the rise to fame from child star to leading lady.  Also, get your girl friends together for a gossip session when you’re looking at the very umm… informative issue of Cosmopolitan with New Girl actress Zooey Deschanel on the cover, looking all sorts of adorkable, as always. I’m loving Emma Watson‘s grown out pixie cut right now & that she’s taking some very youthful, but elegant fashion risks in her article for Glamour.  Did anyone see her on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon promoting her new movie, Perks of Being a Wallflower? Adorbs!

For the season fashion mag reader, Keira Knightley continues her reign as period drama princess while talking about her latest film, Anna Karenina, as the role of a lifetime for Vogue.  Gwen Stefani proves that she’s still got it for Marie Claire, baring her abs (two babies later!) while No Doubt preps for their long-awaited comeback. Check out the music video for their latest single “Settle Down” here! Lastly, Britney Spears puts her pout to good use with the help of some stylists for Elle, showing off a combination of some pop / rock star style & talks about her latest gig as a judge on X-Factor alongside British grump, Simon Cowell.  Which magazine cover is your favorite? Who do you turn to for the best advice on fall fashion? Happy Styling!

Basics For A Bargain: Fall’s Faux Leather Forecast, Inspired by Jessica Chastain, Lucy Hale, Maria Sharapova, & More!

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I’ve been on the prowl for great fall finds & one trend that keeps stopping me in my tracks is leather & it’s just not going away.  Why should it? The luxe, lush material adds an edge to a feminine blouse, contradicts a flirty skirt, makes you look like a rock star, or just helps any Style Darling stand out a little bit more.  Take it from some of our favorite celebrities, including Jessica Chastain, Kate Bosworth, Lucy Hale, Nicole Richie, Sophia Bush, Maria Sharapova, & Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.

My previous post about summer leather shared looks worn by Emma Stone, Alexa Chung, & Julianne Hough, but our calendars change to fall in just a few days, so why not start looking at ways to wear leather- or faux leather in this case, that can really spruce up your current wardrobe, as well as help welcoming the season.

At the recent celebration of New York Fashion Week, we saw lots of leather in recent posts for Runway Rundown, including Spring 2013 collections by designers Jason Wu, Holmes & Yang, Oscar de la Renta, & Michael Kors. Also, there was more leather to be found hitting the runway with metallic pencil skirts from DKNY, jackets by Marc Jacobs, pleated dresses by Tracy Reese, cut-out accents from Pamella Roland, & chic tops for Helmut Lang, as seen below.

However, when it comes to affordable fashion, it’s not always easy to find leather when you’re shopping on a budget. Enter: faux leather. You can’t forget that faux leather isn’t harmful to animals & is always less expensive.  It’s so easy to find faux leather separates, jackets, & dresses these days & I couldn’t decide on just a handful of items, so brace yourself… there’s a lot to look at!

What caught my attention to start posting about all these leather trends was a recent post made by Venus that I spotted on my newsfeed on Facebook.  These looks all include faux leather items, including (from left to right) the faux leather trimmed blouse ($36.00), faux leather mini skirt ($32.00), peep toe ankle strap heel ($39.00), sweater with faux leather ($18.00), faux leather leggings ($44.00), & faux leather dress ($64.00) in black. Of course, I couldn’t just write about items from one store, so here’s some more!

I should disclaim that I do not condone wearing any of these items with other faux leather pieces. You can take that risk if you’d like, but to avoid looking like a biker chick or appearing as though in costume, I’d recommend allowing for one item to be the standout & then mix with other fabrics to create a multi-dimensional & textured look.  First, the zipped faux leather denim skirt ($19.80) comes from Forever 21 & is available in plus sizes 12-20.  Underneath, you’ll find the essential faux leather shorts ($15.80), which are perfect for fall with tights & ankle booties.  Pair either of these bottoms with a fabulous blouse, studded tee, or menswear-inspired button-down.  The a-line skirt ($39.00) from Joe Fresh is cute for bringing to life the looks worn by Selena Gomez & Nicole Richie at the top of this post.  Also, add just a hint of leather with the zip back pencil skirt with (minus the) leather ($59.90) from Express.

We all know that leggings are all the rage right now, so to find the perfect pair for this edition of Basics for a Bargain, I turned to H&M for their leggings ($24.95) in black, which are also available in white, if you dare! Break these bad boys out with a chunky oversized knit & your fiercest pointed toe pumps, or help a graphic tee look less casual & top it off with a satin blazer.

I also found the plus size tee with faux leather shoulders ($34.99 – $39.99) from Jessica London & Antonio Melani Sardinia faux-leather top ($34.65) @Dillards which pair well underneath a suit for the office, or with dark denim pieces like jeggings or a mini.  If all-over leather isn’t your thing, then the touch of texture on the shoulders helps frame your face & becomes an accessory to your look. Lastly, the faux leather strapless cocktail club dress ($54.99) in black 2 cute 2 trendy crawls near the borderline of pinup, but with asymmetric zipper details, you could be working it just like Kristen Stewart or Brooklyn Decker do when making red carpet appearances.

Which leather pieces are your favorite? Which celeb looks the best in leather? Are you a fan of real leather or would you rather wear faux leather? How would you style your leather look? Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Jason Wu’s Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection From New York Fashion Week!

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The fashion madness continues even though Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week has ended.  We can all still clamour over the style galore that hit the runway, including in-demand brand, Jason Wu.  His Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection is jam-packed with leather details, menswear-inspiration, strong corsets (perhaps á la 50 Shades of Gray?), layers of tulle, & pretty prints.  Jason Wu, of course, has been popularized by First Lady Michelle Obama, as well as celebrities like Julianne Moore, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Camilla Belle, & Diane Kruger. Take a look through the gallery & share with us which looks are your favorites? Would you wear any of these separates?

For more Runway Rundown, check out previous posts including  Holmes & Yang, Oscar de la Renta, & Zac Posen. Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Your Spoiler Alert Sneak Peek At Project Runway’s Season 10 Finale Collections!

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I only got around to watching last Thursday’s episode of Project Runway last night & also just happened to come across a the All Project Runway blog on Blogspot, which shared the collections from the remaining 8 designers of the show who were still in the aired episodes, so as not to give anything away about who would be the final designers really showing at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.  We saw Gunnar go home on Thursday after an unfortunate construction of his hands & bird print for the HP Challenge, but luckily, we’re able to see his designs one more time hitting the runway.

The gallery includes looks from Christopher Palu, Dmitry Sholokhov, Elena Slivnyak, Fabio Costa, Gunnar Deatherage, Melissa Fleis, Sonjia Williams, & Ven Budhu. Who do you think will make it to the top 3? Which past designers would you like to see back on the show? Which has been your favorite challenge? Happy Styling!

Top 10 Celeb Sightings: Elegant & Embellished Looks By Michael Kors, Stella McCartney, Elie Saab, & More!

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With all the much-deserved hub bub going around about New York Fashion Week & my birthday last week, I didn’t want my readers to think that I forgot about one of my most-viewed categories here on Style Darling, which is Top 10 Celeb Sightings.  There has been so much going on in the last week or so, which only means that you’re likely to see more than one of these posts in the next few days.  I’m loving the way some of my favorite actresses are dressing these days, not to mention all those fabulous wow-moments on the red carpet lately.  My best picks of this gallery include Hailee Steinfeld in Erin by Erin Fetherston, Isla Fisher in Stella McCartney, & Jessica Chastain in Jason Wu.  Their looks are classic & modern at the same time.

Also, be sure to check out Emily Blunt in Roland Mouret, Emma Watson in Peter Pilotto, Kristen Stewart‘s red carpet return in Zuhair Murad, Nikki Reed in Michael Kors, Selena Gomez in Atelier Versace, Taylor Swift‘s J.Mendel suit, & Zoe Salanda in Elie Saab for the premiere of The Words (read my review on Movie Buzzers here).

For more red carpet bests, check out previous posts which include Jennifer Lopez & Lea Michele, Emmy Rossum & Anna Kendrick, & Katy Perry & Rachel Bilson! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Holmes & Yang’s Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection!

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Now that Katie Holmes is a single woman, she’s been everywhere, including New York Fashion Week, with friend & stylist Jeanne Yang.  The duo have been hitting runways together with their brand, Holmes & Yang, since 2009 & this season’s Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection can be added to that stylish legacy-in-the-making.  Katie often wears pieces from the line, which was created in an effort to create looks to be worn from day-to-night seamlessly no matter any age or time.  I’m sharing this collection which includes printed sheath dresses, evening & edgy jackets, trousers & shorts, as well as elegant formal looks.  Check out the gallery & share with us which are your favorite pieces!

Be sure to also check out previous posts from Runway Rundown, including collections from Oscar de la Renta, Zac Posen, & Michael Kors! Happy Styling!

Inside A Style Blogger’s Closet: Topping Off The Season With Sparkle & Sass!

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In my last post, I shared with readers my fabulous corduroy skirt find from Old Navy, but the bargains continue since I’ve used some special discount codes & gifts birthday coupons to help freshen up my fall duds.  If you follow me on Pinterest (@MissAlissaL), then you’d know that I’ve been eyeing some really chic tops lately that can do double duty for my wardrobe when I’m working & heading out for tea with some girl friends.

This includes the raglan sleeve Hacci top ($14.99) in silver from Charlotte Russe, which I was able to score for 20% less since I showed my student ID. I picked this since it can easily go from day-to-night & will work with any of my colorful layering tanks when I’m running errands with a scarf & jeans, or would like a polished look with a pencil skirt & statement pendant.

Next, LOFT‘s cotton sequin animal spot tee ($44.99) was reduced to $19.99 in stores, but thankfully I received a $15 off gift just for being a cardholder with the store.  The bill for this top (which ran big, so I picked up a small- who knew??) came to just under $5.50 (thanks Laurie!). I’ve already worn it to work with a white pencil skirt & neon yellow cardigan, excited to mix the metallic details with a few classic summer pieces that I want to wear one more time before the season is over.

Lastly, the long sleeve snow leopard burnout layering tee ($29.90) from Express was a lot of fun to try on since I usually gravitate towards zebra prints.  However, this black, gray, & white snow leopard is fun & will look great with dark denim jeans, colored leggings, & even some with a pair of satin shorts & tights for a stylish night out.  I bought this top for $10 less since I had a coupon & in doing so, I added some rewards points to my Express Next card for discounts on future purchases.

Which tops do you like the best? Are you more into sparkles, sequins, or animal print? How would you style these? Which stores offer the best coupons for birthday discounts? For more fabulous deals & to see what I’m wearing, check out previous posts from Inside A Style Blogger’s Closet & Quickie Darling Deal & Steal, including my favorite striped dress from The Gap for $14, feminine peep toe bowed pumps from Payless, & the best buys on leopard print flats! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Catch The Fall Cord Trend @Old Navy!

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While trying to figure out just what I should do with all those coupons that I received for my birthday last week, I couldn’t think of anything other than using them for the greater good of my wardrobe! Of course, I would’ve been more than happy to share them with friends, but since I had a few days off after starting my new job (yay!) I headed straight to the mall & local stores to treat myself to some super bargains & affordable style.

I must go to Old Navy at least once a month- that’s how often it seems that I get a coupon- & wasn’t entirely too successful in the clearance section.  I wandered around the store to find these perfect-cord pencil skirts ($17.50) which were marked down from their original $29.94 price.  In addition, my coupon & discount code for an extra 20% off (code: ONBIG20, which expires 9/16) made the price even less.  I choose the jute green color since I know how beautifully it will pair against my black & gray staples for building an office look.  However, I did love the rich deep space blue, warm creme caramel, feminine raspberry punch, & trendy candied lemon hues to think about matching with printed blouses, argyle cardigans, & suede ankle booties.

Keep in mind that prices & sales online don’t always match store prices, but I lucked out with the cheaper store price.  I can’t wait to break out my fall shoes & some textured tights & head to work in this stylish pencil skirt that will last me until next spring! Which color do you like the best? Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Oscar de la Renta’s Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection From New York Fashion Week!

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As if talking about Michael Kors, Victoria Beckham, Zac Posen, & Rachel Zoe wasn’t enough… now I’ve gone & found the entire Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection designed by Oscar de la Renta! Runway Rundown continues to share with readers the latest from New York’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.  The fun & flirty collection features bright separates, a-line & pencil skirts, printed trousers, belted dresses, & show-stopping gowns, all of which are sure to be worn by celebrities hitting the red carpet, making promotional appearances, & while living it up at parties.  Which look is your favorite? Who do you want to see wearing these amazing designs? Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Zac Posen’s Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collectoin From New York Fashion Week!

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Although New York Fashion Week has come to a close, Style Darling will still be talking about all of the glamour, elegance, & of course trends for the upcoming seasons.  I’m also going to keep posting galleries of some of my favorite runway shows, & Zac Posen is no exception! The American designer, worn by the likes of Rihanna, Claire Danes, Jessica Biel, & Kate Beckinsale, made more than the average Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week splash since famed models like Naomi Campbell, Angela Lindvall, Coco Rocha, Karolina Kurkova, Crystal Renn, & Hilary Rhoda appeared, lending their support to the brand, as well as showing off the unforgettable designs for the Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection.  With award’s season just around the corner, surely the stars will be donning these dresses which feature details like lace, mermaid hemlines, peplums, & sweetheart necklines. Click through the gallery & share which looks are your favorites!

For more from Fashion Week & Runway Rundown, check out Michael Kors, Rachel Zoe, & Victoria Beckham! Happy Styling!

Splurge or Save… A Burgundy Blouse?

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The color of the upcoming fall-winter season is burgundy & its related hues, including brick, deep red, maroon, oxblood, merlot, & so on. I have to say that this isn’t a color I wear often, but I can see the luxury in it, especially when it comes to classic & feminine pieces like a burgundy blouse. Lately, Style Darling has been all about what’s been going down at New York Fashion Week with manic posts under Runway Rundown, but if we’re going to look ahead, let’s talk about what we should be considering for updating our wardrobe this fall.  Even if you’re not looking to stay on-trend, the idea of a burgundy blouse is pretty timeless.  It will look lush & expensive against any black, gray, navy, cream, mustard (yes, I said mustard), or denim pieces that you already own & rely on for building your everday looks.  Keep with the jewel tones & add a splash of deep purple for some colorblocking!

I’ve found five similar blouses that fit the criteria for Splurge of Save?, ranging in price from nearly $400 to under $20.  Of course, when it comes to a blouse, you have to consider the care that you will take in cleaning it, if it’s hand wash or dry clean only, which will entail an extra cost & time spent going to & from a reliable dry cleaners. Also, let’s say that for the sake of variety, we’d be looking at wearing this blouse twice a month from September to April. That’s 8 months & 16 wears, which is how we’ll figure the always important CPW (cost per wear).

The most expensive, but perhaps my favorite of all these blouses is the Equipment Signature 2-pocket silk chiffon shirt ($398.38) from ASOS. The subtle polka dot print can also be mixed with other prints like a pinstripe pant or always fashionable houndstooth pencil skirt if you’re going for a real runway-inspired look.  At most, this comes to just under $25 per wear, which can always buy you a great lunch & dessert with a refreshing glass of wine when you’re out with the girls.  Next, the Joie ‘Marru’ pleated blouse ($198.00) @Neiman Marcus is a less conventional looking blouse, but the modern pleats down the front add texture to this flowy feminine piece.  Wearing this will cost you less than $13 each day, which doesn’t sound so bad, but for some, the sleeve-length may not be favorable.  This can always be remedied with a cool cardigan or heavy knit wrap sweater. ALso, keep in mind that light pieces like blouses can always soften up tough separates like a leather jacket!

Thirdly, the Calvin Klein roll sleeve shirt ($69.50) from Bloomingdale’s doesn’t necessarily fall under the blouse category, but if worn with the right separates, this shirt can be utilized for day or night, in the office or for a date.  The sporty sleeves are perfect for pairing with a menswear-inspired vest, but this can also be coordinated with faux leather leggings, tucked in with satin shorts & tights, or simply worn with distressed boyfriend jeans & flats.  Dress this up with an embellished cardigan & drop earrings, or keep it simple with a croc embossed belt & riding boots.  For just over $4 a day, this doesn’t seem like such a bad deal, but of course, every Style Darling knows to keep their budget in mind.

For those who love the retro look, consider the ‘Prepare to Bordeaux’ top ($49.99) from Mod Cloth, which recalls that sexy librarian / secretary vibe, while also donning an air of Old Hollywood.  With a metallic-accented brocade pencil skirt or sequined mini, this is perfect with a killer blazer or worn to show off the sheer sleeves.  Not to mention that the scarf-like knot at the neck draws attention to your face.  Not to keep getting too math-y, for just over $3 a day, this blouse is worth the investment.  Lastly, Forever 21‘s shirred high-low shirt ($19.80) is our least expensive blouse, costing barely $1.25 per wear & is also great for styling for day or night.  Take a cue from the pic above & try your favorite pair of colored jeans, or create a 70’s look with wide leg jeans & camel accessories.

Which blouse is your favorite? Are you getting into the burgundy trend? How would you style this look? What piece would you like to see next in Splurge or Save? Happy Styling! (Special thanks to graphic designer, Nino Vlacich <3, for his time & skills in creating the image above!)

Runway Rundown: Michael Kors Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection At Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week!

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To me, Michael Kors is the quintessential American fashion designer.  Of course, there’s Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch, & even those Olsen twins & their brand, The Row, who are making American designers all the more competitive against those French & Italian types.  However, as a big fan of Project Runway, I’ve put MK above all the others since I love his sense of humor about fashion, but also the minimalist elegance that so many celebrities embrace in his designs, including Jennifer Lopez, Blake Lively, Penelope Cruz, & Viola Davis.

When it came time to start sharing runway picks from New York Fashion Week, I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night if I didn’t include his Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection, which features men’s & women’s looks, combining Americana with 80s hues, all in the name of quality fashion.  These pieces are fun to consider, exciting to watch, & probably darn amazing to wear.

For more galleries from Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, check out the latest posts in Runway Rundown, including Rachel Zoe, Victoria Beckham, & Christian Siriano! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Rachel Zoe’s Spring 2013 Collection at New York Fashion Week!

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It continues! I’m all over this Runway Rundown with New York Fashion Week, offering up the latest images from Rachel Zoe‘s Spring 2013 Collection.  As you may know, I’m a big fan of the celebrity stylist-turned-designer.  Her eye for glamour never fails & she understands how to dress for success.  I’m super excited that she’s recently announced that her reality show, The Rachel Zoe Project, will be returning for its fifth season soon on Bravo! Take a look at the gallery to see Rachel’s retro / contemporary separates with a timeless glam factor.  Although we’re talking high-end fashion here, there’s no doubt that her designs fit so many different styles & the pieces are tangible enough to mix & match with any wardrobe!

For more galleries from Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, check out Monique Lhuillier, Christian Siriano, & Victoria Beckham! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Victoria Beckham’s Spring Summer 2013 Collection At New York Fashion Week!

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I’ll never get tired of posting galleries in Runway Rundown, especially when there’s still so much to talk about from New York Fashion Week.  If you haven’t noticed, I’m a big fan of any & everything related to Victoria Beckham. She was my favorite Spice Girl (mostly for her style) & she’s one of my favorite designers! Her latest Spring / Summer 2013 Collection for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week was well-received, & why wouldn’t it be? The tailored combination of dresses & separates in crisp white, posh black, & radiant red made a splash on the runway, proving that the multi-talented Brit is still a powerful force in fashion to be reckoned with.  Take a look at the gallery & slideshow to see what all the fuss is about.  Also, be sure to check out previous galleries of the latest from fashion week, including Monique Lhuillier & Christian Siriano! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Christian Siriano’s Spring / Summer 2013 Collection From New York Fashion Week!

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I’m always (trying to be, at least) on top of what’s going on with my very favorite designers, including Project Runway winner, Christian Siriano, whose latest Spring / Summer 2013 Collection hit the runway of New York. I was super excited to feature this elegant & feminine line in the latest for Runway Rundown, so that my readers can get a taste of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Also, I’m happy to continue showing support to the talented Maryland native who never ceases to stun on the runway & when celebs wear his looks on the red carpet. What do you think of these glamorous looks? Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Monique Lhuillier’s Spring 2013 Collection @New York Fashion Week!

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Shame on me for not updating my readers about the fabulous on-goings of New York Fashion Week. Not only is that excitement happening, but I’ve just come off a multi-day celebration of my 29th birthday, which was super exciting since I decided to skip last year’s birthday. Of course, in the midst of the wine-drinking & dress-wearing, I’ve finally acquired a new job & decided to freshen up my wardrobe with some affordable new additions from the end-of-the-season clearance racks.

However, let’s talk business & I mean Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York City. The first collection that I’ll be featuring in this latest edition of Runway Rundown is Monique Lhuillier‘s Spring 2013 Collection. The line features feminine details like lace, ruching, slits, cut-outs, & peplum hemlines. Leave it to Monique Lhuillier to create a timeless collection that is sure to grab the attention of celebs like Eva Longoria, Emma Stone, Jessica Chastain, & Krysten Ritter, especially as the big fall / winter awards season is descending upon us.

Take a look at the gallery to ooh & ahh at the 45-piece collection.  Also, for more runway talk, check out previous posts, including the 10th anniversary collection of Project Runway for Lord & Taylor, shoe designer Nicholas Kirkwood’s jaw-dropping 106-piece Fall 2012 collection, & Chanel’s dazzling & classic Fall 2012 Haute Couture collection! If you’re looking to shop these trendy new looks, Monique Lhuillier designs can be found at Nordstrom, Bergdorf Goodman, & Saks Fifth Avenue. Happy Styling!

Ad Madness / Watch This Style: Scarlett Johansson’s Latest For Dolce & Gabbana Cosmetics!

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When you look like Tony-winner Scarlett Johansson, I guess you don’t need much to look like a gorgeous model. For Dolce & Gabbana‘s latest campaign, the actress is lending her sensual pout & old Hollywood beauty to the brand’s cosmetics line, promoting the Perfect Luminous Liquid Foundation ($59.00) available @Saks Fifth Avenue.

Check out the video (commercial, maybe?) for the newest make up product, featuring beautiful shots of Italy & a snuggling Scarlett wrapped in sheets.  What do you think of cosmetic ad campaigns? Do you think this is too much? What do you think of Scarlett returning as a spokesmodel for the brand?

For more from Ad Madness, check out Julia Roberts for Lancome’s La Vie Est Belle, Lana Del Rey modeling for H&M, & Lily Collin’s for Movado! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: The 10th Anniversary Collection of ‘Project Runway’ for Lord & Taylor!

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Yes, I’m a few days behind, but if any of you watched last week’s episode of Project Runway, then you saw the amazing 10th anniversary collection for Lord & Taylor than features 10 looks from 10 of the reality competition show’s favorite designers, including latest challenge winner, Christopher  Palu.  I’m featuring the fashion dresses from each season, which are currently being sold on the Lord & Taylor website.  This is a pretty big deal for the show & its designers, especially b/c there was not a single flop walking down the runway, & the judges could not eliminate anyone.

Take a look to see looks from Christopher Palu ($275.00), Bert Keeter ($328.00), Mondo Guerra ($248.00), Seth Aaron Henderson ($275.00), Gordana Gelhausen ($275.00), Korto Momolu ($275.00), Chris March ($348.00), Uli Herzner ($275.00), Nick Verreos ($275.00), & Jay McCarroll ($298.00). Which look is your favorite? Which past designer would you like to see more from? Happy Styling!

Splurge Or Save… On Leopard Print Flats?

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I recently had a very insightful discussion on the preferences of animal print, how to wear it & what the essentials are for one’s wardrobe (yes, this really happened). Of course I’m crazy for zebra (with a purse, flats, sheets, laundry bin, skirt, etc…), however leopard print just won’t go away, & why should it? I own a satin pair of ballerina flats with a fabulous leopard print & bow-crystal accent at the heel.  They’re super comfortable & perfect for any casual look or fashionable dinner with the girls.

In my newest category (yes, the creativity just keeps pouring out- see Fabulous in 4 Ways), Splurge or Save? will investigate an item at different price points.  Staples like leopard print flats can be found virtually anywhere, especially this time of year when we’re preparing our fall wardrobes for chic splashes of personality when the weather becomes crisper.

As you can see, we have a little celebrity inspiration joining us. Fashion icon Alexa Chung wears her pointed toe leopard flats with a menswear-inspired shirtdress, reinforcing why she’s just so darn fun to watch.  Designer Whitney Port looks sweet mixing prints in her Whitney Eve outfit & leopard flats.  Socialite Olivia Palermo, who’s been everywhere lately it seems, breaks out in a feminine floral shorts look & some bowed leopard flats.  However, now that we’ve seen some of Style Darling‘s favorite celebrities wearing leopard print flats, let’s take a look at what I’ve found, ranging in price from $14.99 – $275.00!

The above five shoes range quite a bit in price, but each share the same concept of a bow detail & black trim around the foot, which emphasize the classic design of a ballet flat.  First, the RED Valentino leopard print ballerina flat ($275.00) from Neiman Marcus would cost you just over $10/wear if you wore them once every other week. Perhaps this doesn’t sound so bad, but dropping the cash to buy them initially will put a big dent in any shopper’s budget.  I’d feel lucky to the proud owner of any Valentino piece, but at this point in my life, such luxuries will only appear on Super Style Wishlist.  Next, the Ashley bow ballet flat ($98.00) from Banana Republic will earn you plenty of rewards points for future discounts if you’re a cardholder, but the fact that this style of ballet flat is available in other such trendy textures like tweed, patent leather, croc, houndstooth, metallic, & suede will certainly suit your shopping fancies.

While clicking around @Nine West, I discovered the Cacey flats ($79.00), which serve double purpose with the patent leather cap toe accenting the wild print.  However, the cost-per-wear for these is down to $3/wear, if worn once every other week.  NOTE: Select designs of this shoe (polka dots & pink colorblock leather) are currently reduced to $29.00 on the website! Moving on… I was pleasantly surprised to find that ALDO‘s clearance section included the Warnack flats ($35.00) which have been reduced from their original $70.00 price tag.  The metal tips on the bow add some extra detail to what surely will be an already polished look.

Lastly, the most affordable pair in our collection includes the American Eagle Flash flat ($14.99) @Payless– my go-to source for shoes.  I know I can always rely on Payless for comfortable, yet stylish shoes that work with my budget, especially when I’m on the go & can’t always take the time to go shopping in a store. When ordering online, Payless offers FREE SHIPPING if your purchase is shipped to a store location, which always makes me happy.  Since these are the least expensive of all of the selections, I’d like to inform readers that the CPW (again, cost-per-wear) now becomes less than .60/wear.  If you plan on wearing them more than once every other week- & I don’t blame you b/c they’re just so cute!- you’re still getting a bargain for a reliable must-have when building an outfit.

How much would you spend on a pair of leopard flats? This sort of investment will keep paying your back, since these versatile statements of footwear can go with you to the office, school, on a date, or wherever your day may lead you. I know I’m a sucker for a good deal, but when it comes to shoes, there are a few other factors to consider like fit, how well the texture is made, if I like the print, & so on. What about you? What would you do? Would you splurge or save? Happy Styling!