Basics For A Bargain: Maxi Dresses Inspired By Olivia Wilde, Lauren Conrad, Lily Collins, & More!


‘Tis the season for maxidresses, which will be staples in your warm weather wardrobe from now even until after Labor Day.  As you can see, there are plenty of celebrities wearing maxidresses in a bunch of different ways.  Belts, beads, heels, flats, & jackets are perfect for accessorizing these flowy floor-length frocks.  First we have Alessandra Ambrosio in a tiered maxidress with a Loewe bag, Beyonce in a printed maxidress with stilettos, Rachel Bilson in a Suno maxidress, & Lily Collins in a Peter Som maxidress.

Also, for some more celebrity-inspiration, there’s Lauren Conrad in a belted Heartloom maxidress, Olivia Wilde in a Yigal Azrouel maxidress, Emma Roberts in an Isabel Lu maxidress, & Nicole Richie in a floral printed maxidress. With all these celebrity images, you can see how a maxidress is perfect for a red carpet event, daytime luncheon, or summer date night.

I’ve searched high & low for the best & most affordable maxi dresses from my favorite stores to share with readers.  In an effort to offer up some variety, I’ve selected trends like colorblocking, animal print, ruffles, & chiffon, as well as patterns like stripes, paisley, & florals. These selections include the cheetah lace maxi dress ($28.99) @Charlotte Russe, the I Heart Ronson striped maxi dress ($32.00) from JC Penney, tube cup feather maxi dress ($29.50) from Wet Seal, paisley maxi dress ($50.00) from Dress Barn, New York & Company‘s floral ruffle maxi dress ($69.95), leopard maxi dress ($27.80) from Forever 21‘s Plus 21 collection, colorblock maxi dress ($25.00) from Target, & flounced racer back dress ($27.80) also from Forever 21.

Which maxidress do you like the best? Where do you shop for maxidresses? How do you like to accessorize your spring / summer looks? Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Stylish Earrings From Bebe!


If you’re looking to invest in some beautiful accessories to wear any time of the year, then you need to check out the earrings @Bebe.  I haven’t browsed through the website in quite some time, but I was thrilled to see these drop & stud earrings, perfect to wear for cocktail parties, going out with the girls, for a date night, & for a family party.

I have talked about affordable accessories from store like Forever 21, Target, Payless, H&M, & Kohl’s, which I will continue to endorse, however these are perfectly stylish designs for the earring lover in all of us, even though they run in price between $22.00 – $34.00. If you’re looking for unique designs to bring out some of your wardrobe staples, then I recommend the Multi Tiered Ombre Crystal Earrings ($34.00), Crystal Cluster Leaf Stud ($24.00), Multi Tier Diamond Duster Earring ($22.00), & Teardrop & Faceted Stone Earring ($24.00). Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Taylor Schilling From ‘The Lucky One’ Is Stylish In Calvin Klein, Prabal Gurung, & More!


This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The latest Nicholas Sparks adaptation The Lucky One stars a very grown up Zac Efron & Hollywood’s latest up & coming it-girl, Taylor Schilling, who has previously starred on the short-lived medical drama, Mercy.  The Massachusetts native has been hitting red carpets all over the world to help promote the romance / drama, looking effortless, chic, & like a superstar in-the-making in Calvin Klein Collection, Prabal Gurung, Azzedine Alaia, & Peter Pilotto. Take a look at the gallery below & check out the trailer for the movie, if you haven’t seen it yet.  Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: BOGO $12.50 Shoes @Charlotte Russe!


@Charlotte Russe, there’s a fabulous sale going on right now for shoes.  You can get nearly any style BOGO $12.50, & my favorites include these two pairs of fabulous & feminine peep toe pumps.  The patent bow peep toe pump ($30.00) is perfect to add with your favorite shirt dress, date night look, or little black dress.  Also, the pop-up bow velvet pump ($39.50) is a sexier evening pump, perfect for nearly any time of the year with a cocktail dress or a stylish separates look with a brocade mini skirt & polka dot blouse.

I’m always an advocate of shoe sales, which is why I’ve created this post, in addition to other recent write-ups on footwear including suede platform sandals from Payless, a latest design by Sofia Vergara for KMart, & starry flats from ALDO! Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Christina Aguilera’s 5 Most Stylish Videos!


I’ve been thinking long & hard about what I would post in Watch This Style when featuring pop star / The Voice mentor, Christina Aguilera, since it would most certainly contain all the musical numbers from Burlesque. However, this post is focusing solely on Christina’s best videos from her albums.  While there are so many gorgeously styled videos to choose from, my favorites include “Hurt,” “Ain’t No Other Man,” “The Voice Within,” “Fighter,” & “Not Myself Tonight.”

Perhaps sometime in the future, I’ll feature more videos from the Grammy winner, but I love that there’s a wide variety of styles ranging from Old Hollywood to gothic to futuristic. For more stylish music videos, be sure to check out Katy Perry, Madonna, & Whitney Houston! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Catherine Middleton’s Very Fashionable 2012 (So Far)!


 

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

I’ve featured plenty about Pippa Middleton in the past & even though Style Darling is still 100% in love with the famous younger sister, it’s time I finally gave big sis, Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine Middleton some style love.  Although I should mention that I’ve featured some of Kate’s fashionable looks in my blog for Ladies Outfitters, as seen here & here.

Even though we’re in the middle of spring, indulging in light flowy dress & breaking out strappy sandals, I wanted to take a quick look back at Kate whose style (although not on a red carpet) is always worth another look, especially since she’s having such a fabulous 2012! Take a look at the slideshow above, or click through the images below.

For more posts from Red Carpet Review, be sure to check out Brooklyn Decker’s press tour for Battleship, Emma Roberts in Juicy Couture, Yves Saint Laurent, & more, & The Hunger Games star Jennifer Lawrence! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Spring Styles & Lovely Lace From ModCloth!


I haven’t visited the ModCloth site in a quite a long time, but I was happy to find some of the latest sale items, featuring all sorts of lace details.  I’ve always loved lace b/c even just a swatch on a collar or trim on a skirt, makes for an especially garment.

After perusing through some of affordable deals that are selling out quick, these are some of my favorites! The Critical Moss Top by Jack by BB Dakota ($22.99) is perfect to pair with jeans to make a daytime look a little more polished.  This is one sweatshirt that won’t ever go out of style & will make your lazy day look all the more trendy.

The Pleat Me For Dinner Skirt ($29.99) is a fun way to wear lace b/c of its polka dot pattern & slimming waistband.  This is work appropriate with a high neck blouse & bright blazer.

If you’re looking for a vintage-inspired cocktail dress straight off the set of Mad Men, take a look at the Rock Show Royalty Dress ($39.99).  This is a classic with a twist choice, especially with black opaque tights & round toe pumps. The sexy front slit & button details are unexpected, making this a go-to staple for any season. Happy Styling!

Cover Craze: People Magazine Names Beyoncé Worlds Most Beautiful Woman!


Last year, People annointed Jennifer Lopez Worlds Most Beautiful Woman, but 2012 is all about pop star & new mom Beyoncé, who has earned the coveted title & cover page.  Of course Style Darling loves Beyoncé for her style, music, & all around fabulousness, but to get your fill of the superstar, take a look at the images & even my post in Watch This Style featuring my Top 5 Most Stylish Beyoncé Music Videos! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Zac Posen’s Z Spoke Collection for Lord & Taylor!


This slideshow requires JavaScript.

I’m super excited to share the new about Zac Posen‘s newest collection of Z Spoke @Lord & Taylor.  I’m featuring a gallery of the seven classic dresses that are definitely drool-worthy.  The favorite designer of stars like Rihanna & Claire Danes has created timeless looks that are prefect for transitioning from day-to-night.  These dresses are office-friendly with a blazer or cardigan, day-ready with ballet flats & a cropped jacket, delightful for a date with stilettos & hoop earrings, & cute for a cocktail party with a sequin clutch & strappy platforms. Although the dresses are just under $200, they’re still inspiring as spring styles are sweeping the red carpet in whimsical waves of a-lines & draping.

For more fabulous designers at our favorite stores, check out Ivanka Trump’s Lord & Taylor collection, Alberta Ferretti for Macy’s, & Marni for H&M. Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Grab BOGO Deals With Suede Platform Sandals from Payless!


Not that long ago, I featured some of the ads from the recent Candie’s for Kohl’s campaign starring Glee‘s Lea Michele in colorful suede platform sandals.  Well, it appears that Payless is on board with the trend with these Jupiter platform sandals ($29.99) by Brash. Right now, Payless is celebrating spring with a limited time BOGO 50% off sale, so this deal is even better than the one @Kohl’s.  Of course, you have your pick of colors, especially since Payless is offering the stylish sandals in tan, black, coral, & purple / pink.  These are the perfect addition to make your LBD a little more flirty, a pencil skirt more playful, & akinny jeans ready for a night out on the town.

Don’t forget that when you order shoes online from Payless, if you have them shipped to your local store, shipping is FREE! That sounds like a pretty awesome deal if you ask me! What do you think about these sandals? What would you wear them with? For more top shoe picks, check out posts featuring sandals by Sofia Vergara @KMart, neon jellies @Express, & ankle-strap espadrilles from Old Navy. Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: A Top Shoe Pick From Sofia Vergara for KMart!


It’s not a secret that I love celebrity fashion lines, so I’m returning to one of my favorites & that is Sofia by Sofia Vergara for KMart.  The funny star of Modern Family understands the budget of a working woman, as well as her desire to look smart, sexy, & stylish!  I’ve featured Sofia’s line @KMart previously here & here b/c there’s just so much to love about the very affordable & wearable collection.

I’ve chosen this Harper suede & snake pump ($34.99) b/c it is so versatile for work, to dress up a day look, or to wear with any cocktail dress.  Not only is it available in a sultry black, but it’s also sold in nude as a perfect neutral to any printed sheath dress, vintage-inspired jumpsuit, or modern LBD.

The possibilities are endless on how to wear this shoe, but for the unbeatable price, it’s a must-have this spring.  Also, it’s one of those styles that you can wear all year long.  For example, in the fall, break out some super opaque tights to wear these with a belted sweater dress or any layered look of a blouse & cardigan with skinny pants.  In the winter, I’d recommend these with a wool suit for the office or even with a structured brocade dress which will offset the snake & suede textures very nicely.

For more of my favorite footwear picks, check out previous posts which include jellies from Express, starry ballet flats from ALDO, DexFlex scrunch flats from Payless, & Old Navy’s colorful espadrilles!

Have you shopped for anything from Sofia’s line? Do you like these shoes? What would you wear them with? Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Brooklyn Decker Sports Stella McCartney, Christian Louboutin, & More During The ‘Battleship’ Press Tour!


This slideshow requires JavaScript.

I wasn’t very sure about Brooklyn Decker when she first hit the big screen in Just Go With It, but her recent red carpet appearances have been making think otherwise.  The star of the upcoming Battleship is showing off her best assets in designers like Stella McCartney, Theory, Christian Louboutin, & Jimmy Choo during her international press tour.  Check out the gallery below to see Ms. Decker in all of her leggy glory! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Mischa Barton Opens Mischa’s Place, Her Debut Clothing Collection!


This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Mischa Barton has more misses than hits on the red carpet lately, but after her makeover onVH1’s Style by June, Mischa is making the rounds promoting her debut clothing collection at her store, Mischa’s Place.  I was super excited to find images of the merchandise so that I could share it with readers.  The collection includes cute dresses, an array of leggings, graphic tees, & structured jackets, perfect for mixing & matching with pieces that you already own. Prices start at $60 & go up from there.  Check out the gallery below to see the entire line! Happy Styling!

The $100 Challenge: Two Stylish Spring Looks, Under $100 Each!


There’s just so much to be excited about this spring & I know I’ve yet to post a complete outfit look! I’m psyched to share these two spring-ready ensembles, which cost under $100 each, hence why I’m featuring them in The $100 Challenge! However, this is a first for the category since I’m sharing with readers a look for Style Darlings who wear regular sizes & plus sizes, which can usually be seen in Darling of the Day.  I’m always encouraging readers to embrace their shapes b/c no matter what you look like, you can always have amazing style!

Let’s start with the plus-size look, which consists of many items from Forever 21‘s Plus 21 line.  It’s affordable & plus-size friendly, featuring casual apparel, as well as dressy duds.  There, you can find the peacock feather print top ($14.80), fringe trim open cardigan ($24.80), sleeping teddy bear shopper tote ($1.50), lace web medallion earrings ($2.80), & night sky bangles ($4.80). I also included the Fantasy jegging capris ($29.99) from Dress Barn & American Eagle Miles espadrille wedges ($19.99) in white from Payless b/c they’re available in wide width for those of you who are troubled by narrow-fitting shoes.  The grand total for this adorable casual & chic look is $98.68!

As for the look on the right, I also did some digging around @Forever 21 & found the striped rose tunic ($17.80) & frayed stripes scarf ($6.80). Then @Old Navy, I choose the crossbody saddle purse ($11.99) & satin covered bracelets ($10.50). To complete the looks, I found the Mossimo Supply Co. capri leggings ($8.00) from Target, Jennifer Lopez silver tone hoop drop earrings ($13.50) from Kohl’s, & Ciao Bella Ballad foldable flat ($19.94) from DSW. The total for this look is $99.03!

I love that both of these looks include pieces that can be dressed in so many different ways with items that we already own in our closet.  try the capris with a three-quarter sleeve button down & some ballet flats.  Of how about the crossbody bag & bangles with printed shorts romper? Oh the possibilities are endless! Which items are your favorites? How would you style these tops & bottoms? Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Alberta Ferretti’s New Limited Edition Collection @Macy’s!


Starting April 17th, shoppers can get their hands on lower-priced styles by Italian designer Alberta Ferretti @Macy’s. She recently told WWD, “The collection I created is fresh and bright, featuring light summer clothing that evokes the spirit of my beautiful country and is at the same time true to my style.” Also, the line is inspired by the breath-taking glamour of the Amalfi coast. So, if you’re headed to Europe this summer & need breezy, bright, & fresh duds to make your trip a most stylish one, check out Ferretti’s collection.  Prices range from $49 – $119, but if you know anything about Macy’s, you can always find a coupon & amazing sale to make the purchase all the more budget-friendly!

Take a look at the gallery below to see the summer wedding-friendly dresses, garden party-ready separates, & beach-worthy maxi dresses! For more from Runway Rundown, check out Ivanka Trump’s latest collection @Lord & Taylor, what the designers from NBC’s Fashion Star are creating for Saks, Macy’s, & H&M, & Kate Hudson’s new ad campaign for Ann Taylor! Happy Styling!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: New Neon Jellies From Express!


Spring Break is here & I’m, as always, super excited to share my newest favorite item of footwear! Of course it’s been way too long since I’ve featured a high heel, but I can’t help but love the bow front jelly flip flops ($17.83) from Express, which are available in black, blue dazzle, bright pink, hot tamale, true white, & neon yellow.  They’re perfect for any swimsuit look, with a shorts romper, or when you’re running out of the house in a tank & mini skirt.

These flip-flops bring me back to being a kid, running around on the boardwalk at the beach. I love that they’re coming back into fashion now, especially since they’re currently 30% off from their original $24.90 price.  Will you be wearing neon jellies this summer? Happy Styling!

Silver Screen Style: Woody Allen’s ‘To Rome with Love’ Trailer!


Excuse me if I’m repeating myself.. As some of you may know I am the sole proprietor of Style Darling, but also write full-time for Ladies Outfitters & also dabble in some entertainment writing for Movie Buzzers.  I recently wrote about the trailer for Woody Allen’s latest European romp, To Rome with Love, for Movie Buzzers. I’m featuring it here b/c not only does it look like a fantastic movie, but the Italian setting brings on a whole new level of stylish inspiration!

The film stars Woody Allen, Judy Davis, Penelope Cruz, Ellen Paige, Alec Baldwin, Jesse Eisenberg, Greta Gerwig, Roberto Benigni, & Alison Pill.  I’m most excited about seeing Ms. Cruz back on the big screen under Allen’s direction, especially after her Oscar win for Vicky Cristina Barcelona.

For more on stylish movies, check out my Movie Buzzers article on The Most Stylish Films of 2011, the trailer & images for The Rum Diary, & in-depth coverage of Michelle Williams as Marilyn Monroe in My Week with Marilyn. Check out the trailer for To Rome with Love below & leave some comments. The film is due out in theaters on April 22nd! Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Katy Perry’s Top 5 Most Stylish Music Videos!


To be honest, I haven’t always loved Katy Perry, but I think that’s mostly b/c of the media’s attention given to the star not for her singer-songwriter status.  However, you can’t deny that she’s pretty magnetic to watch, whether in concert or in one of her always fabulous & fashionable music videos.  She’s got the pinup-girl-next-door vibe down & she makes no apologies for it.  When on the red carpet, she often goes over the top in her cartoon-inspired candy-coated get-ups, but I prefer her more natural look, as seen in music videos like “The One That Got Away,” “I Kissed A Girl,” and “Teenaged Dream.” In addition, I’ve included videos for “Part Of Me” and “Firework,” which I think capture Katy’s undeniable sense of glamour, yet she’s still relatable as a young woman in the world looking for love.  Watch the videos below & share with us which one is your favorite! Happy Styling!

 

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Let Your Leopard Trench Do All The Work!


Sometimes when you’re putting an outfit together & a jacket is the best way to complete your look, you need something more than a basic beige, gray, or black piece of outerwear, which is why I’ve chosen to feature the leopard print trench coat ($30.00) from Charlotte Russe.

It’s currently marked down from its original $39.99 price tag & is available in sizes XS – XL.  It’s perfect for dressing up an all-black ensemble, or if you’d like to show off your personality against this season’s trend of brightly colored jeans.

If you’re looking to add a little leopard into your wardrobe, just make sure that when you put your outfit together that this is the only animal-inspired piece.  You don’t wanna look like you’re wearing a costume, especially when this look is just so chic when worn with neutrals & other minimal pieces.

While the weather is still transitioning from cool to warm in these early days of spring, at least here in New York, it’s good to keep a stylish trench in reach for more than just those pesky rainy days.  If you’re out & about on a cool morning, throw this on with any office look consisting of a skirt suit or cardigan & trousers separates.  Not to mention that this trench makes a statement that you’re not afraid to take fashion risks.  Of course, bold red or fuchsia trenches are feminine & flirty- that goes without saying, but why not try something as timeless as leopard print?

To check out more animal-inspiration love featured here on Style Darling, take a look at ballet flats from Nine West, a wrap top from Target, & tips on how to revamp your accessories collection in The $100 Challenge! Also, for more from Quickie Darling Deal & Steal, check out some recent posts including flat fever for spring @Payless, clearance deals @White House Black Market, & a bright dress from ASOS! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: See Looks From Ivanka Trumps Newest Collection For Lord & Taylor!


Ivanka Trump first made her mark in fashion with a jewelry line back in 2007, but the model-turned-businesswoman-turned-designer has launched a new collection with Lord & Taylor.  The line features uber-feminine frocks, which draw on Ivanka’s classic taste in designers like Stella McCartney & Ralph Lauren.  The prices range $50 – $240, but these certainly serve as inspiration for the new items that will enhance your new spring wardrobe.  To check out more from Ivanka, check out her entire collection here & see the runway gallery below, courtesy of In Style! Happy Styling!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The Stylish Five: Day-Ready Dresses @Forever21 ($25 & Under)!


Spring is all about sandals, skirts, & dresses! I love this season’s dresses @Forever 21, not just for their very affordable price, but the styles as well!  I picked these five for a long-awaited post in The Stylish Five b/c I think they speak to so many different styles, considering the LBD, something animal print, the always lovely polka dots, a sweet floral, or an edgy tribal pattern.

I picked the silky self-tie back dress ($12.00) which is currently on sale & would look perfectly polished with some canvas wedges for day.  Also marked down is the leopard print dress ($16.99) & if paired with red ballet flats & a denim jacket, you’ll be ready for brunch with the girls or a day of shopping.  The sleeveless polka dot dress ($19.80) is just the thing for my plus-size Style Darlings, especially with a metallic belt & a pastel cardigan.  The summer floral dress ($15.96) is a classic & flirty option with bright accessories in yellow or coral.  Lastly, the Sunday brunch dress ($22.80) is a figure-flattering choice, available in 1X & 2X.

For more on the best dresses for spring, check out some previous posts including a new arrival @Old Navy, more bright shift dresses from Forever21, Rachel Zoe’s pre-fall collection @Neiman Marcus! Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: A First Look At AnnaSophia Robb in ‘The Carrie Diaries!’


It’s been a long time coming, but The Carries Diaries are currently underway. Upcoming actress AnnaSophia Robb is filling the very fashionable Louboutins of Sarah Jessica Parker in the role of the beloved Carrie Bradshaw!  I’ve been scouring the internet for set photos since the show is in production & we hear more & more about casting news everyday.  Although we haven’t heard anything yet about younger Charlottes, Samanthas, or Mirandas appearing on the show, I’m super excited to share what I’ve found.  It seems like the younger 80s version of Carrie is true to the older HBO character that we’ve grown to adore!

What do you think of the new CW show so far? Would you watch it? Do you think AnnaSophia does Carrie justice? Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes For Less: Penelope Cruz & Cameron Diaz’s Oscar Gowns Knock-Offs!


It’s been a number of weeks now since the Oscars & Style Darling eagerly featured a red carpet gallery, which showcased stunners like Penelope Cruz in Armani Prive & Cameron Diaz in Gucci. It was probably one of the most gorgeous turn-outs on the red carpet in a long time.  Fashion critics are still talking about Gwyneth Paltrow in Tom FordJennifer Lopez’s cleavage, Stacy Keibler in gold, & Angelina Jolie’s right leg!

It was only a matter of time before knock-offs of their incredibly beautiful gowns were created for the masses.  As usual, these look-alikes can be found @EDressMe! We recently featured Golden Globes looks worn by Jessica Alba, Angelina Jolie, & Charlize Theron!

However, if you loved the way Penelope & Cameron looked & are in need of a show-stopping red carpet-esque evening gown, check out the Penelope Cruz-inspired Oscar dress by Faviana ($318.00) & the Cameron Diaz-inspired dress by Faviana ($398.00).

Of course b/c these gowns are so elegant & perfect for many ages, both are currently sold out, but according to the website, they will be able to ship in August.

Until then, check out more from Luxury Look-Alikes, including Alicia Keys in Stella McCartney & striped dresses from Michael Kors & Calvin Klein.  Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: 2012 Academy of Country Music Awards Sparkles with Elegance!


This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Last night’s Academy of Country Music Awards were full of glamour & entertainment, especially since the starlets of the night were all dressed up in some of the most sought after designers.  My favorites featured in this edition of Red Carpet Review include Carrie Underwood in Abed Mahfouz, Taylor Swift in J. Mendel, & Hillary Scott in an elegant black gown! Check out the gallery below to see who wore what for the ceremony! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown / Watch This Style: Fashion Star Designers @Saks, Macy’s, & H&M!


On Tuesday nights, NBC’s Fashion Star airs its 4th episode, featuring designers who market their creations for buyers from Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, & H&M.  These designers are under the watchful eyes of mentors Nicole Richie, Jessica Simpson, & John Varvatos.  The show is hosted by supermodel Elle Macpherson, & allows shoppers to buy the winning looks online after the show, as well as in stores the following day.

Take a look at some of the winning looks, which aren’t all available for purchase anymore, but I love how easy Style Darlings can access these designs right away.  Even though I’m a super duper Project Runway addict, this show is happily filling in the fashionable gap for me.  Check out the video posted below in case you haven’t seen the show yet!

Happy Styling!