Luxury Look-Alikes For Less: Vacation-Ready Striped Dresses From Michael Kors & Calvin Klein Vs. Target & Forever 21!

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Thanks to some online browsing of the latest styles in dresses for Spring 2012, I noticed a trend in black, white, & gray stripes for dresses. Even though the weather here on Long Island feels like early spring / late fall, these dresses are certainly vacation-friendly if you’re headed away for these supposedly cooler months.

To the far right, we have a MICHAEL Michael Kors striped dress ($150.00) from Bloomingdales & a Calvin Klein belted ponte knit sheath dress ($118.00) from Nordstrom.  I’m sure the quality of these dresses is very high, but so are the prices.  Perhaps finding the cute alternatives from Forever 21 & Target may ease some pressure on your wallet, while also upholding any money-saving resolutions that you hope to keep this year.  The double-breasted stripe dress ($19.80) & tank maxi dress ($10.00) can be dressed up & down, depending on where you’re headed.

With such a classic foundation as stripes, you can add some glam with chunky chain-linked necklaces, a patent leather belt, & some towering platform heels.  Also, for daytime, try a boyfriend blazer, oversized flyaway cardigan, or a touch of leather.

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Classic Black Pumps @Nine West for Under $30!

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Are you looking for some awesome end-of-the-season deals?  Well, I was clicking through the Nine West website & came across these basic black pumps.  Of course, I’m always looking for something fabulous or textured to spruce up a look, but sometimes sticking to something classic works just as well if your look is busy with detail.

I found the ‘Jennifer’ pump ($27.60) in black leather on the sale section of the website & immediately knew that I had to post about these. They also made me think of some recent looks (see right) worn by Kerry Washington, Elizabeth Olsen & Zooey Deschanel at red carpet events. Even though these are dressy looks, round toe pumps are also a good way to play down fancier pieces like hot pink cigarette pants, a sequin mini skirt, or embellished LBD.

For more on classic round toe pumps like, check out an older Basics for a Bargain post here, featuring Lauren Conrad, Rihanna, & Keira Knightley. Also, if you’re looking to indulge in some shoe shopping, be sure to check out Color Me Style: Be Bright in Green for 2012!, Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: I’m Pumped For These Nine West Flats!, & Super Style Wishlist: Resort Season Styles @Neiman Marcus, Here I Come! Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Emmy Rossum Makes The Talk Show Rounds!

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It’s been quite the crazy week & I haven’t a minute to do any online browsing to post what’s the latest in affordable fashion, but I’ve found that Emmy Rossum is doing all the celebrity-inspired style work for me.  While she’s making the rounds promoting the second season of Shameless, she recently stopped by Chelsea Lately & Conan.  Not only was Golden Globe nominee charming & funny, but the girl’s definitely got some serious style!  Check her out in glittery black Christian Louboutins, as well as in a frilly white dress by Cynthia Rowley with eye-popping blue heels! Happy Styling!

Color Me Style: Be Bright in Green for 2012!

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In looking ahead to the bold fashions of 2012, I’m loving green, which just so happens to be my favorite color.  Although I believe there’s a time & place for a pop of green & wouldn’t recommend this dress with any of these shoes at the same time!

I’m absolutely nuts for this fitted, knee-length dress ($34.95) from H&M, available in sizes 4-16.  Not only is it date-friendly, but it’s also great to transition from the office to happy hour with girlfriends.  You can make it all your own by adding a leather blazer or embellished cardigan.  Perhaps accessories like a studded belt, bib necklace, or textured tights will also bring out the bold color of the anytime sheath dress.

Since we’re on the subject of green, I’m dying for these three pairs of green heels, all from Charlotte Russe.  Right now you can take advantage of the site-wide sale on shoes: Buy 1, Get 1 for $15.50!  The studded platform satin pumps ($40.00) are a fun way to mix things up with your favorite LBD.  If you wanna try something more lush & regal, the velvet platform peep toe pump ($35.50) shows off your flirty side.  Also, the knotted velvet platform pump ($40.00) is sexy for a single girl’s night out.

Don’t be afraid of green & don’t pay any mind to the Kermit the Frog jokes.  For some celebrity inspiration, take a look at Amanda Seyfried in Prabal Gurung @Comic Con in San Diego & Gwyneth Paltrow in a shimmering Elie Saab gown at the Bambi Awards. Check out more Color Me Style posts here, including Hailee Steinfeld in yellow & the hunt for the perfect red shoe! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Snuggle Up With This Toggle Coat From Urban Outfitters!

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The weather is slowly, but surely changing & I know that I’m loving the warmth that my fur-hooded down jacket is providing, but I’m also looking for something a little softer, but affordable to add to my slim outerwear collection.

I love the cooperative toggle coat ($29.99) from Urban Outfitters, which has been reduced from its original $129.99 price.  While only sizes Medium & Large are currently available, this is the kind of coat that can get a lot of use from January to March, especially here on Long Island.

I’m not always a fan of the toggle look, but here the leather details & tooth-like toggles add some texture to an otherwise basic wool winter coat. This is also the right length to wear over a leggings outfit, or even if you’re running some errands after hitting the gym. I’m also a big fan of the bright color b/c it adds a nie pop of personality to your ensemble, even if you’re having an all-black day.

I also posted a little celebrity-inspiration in toggle coats, featuring Amanda Peet, Rihanna, & Britney Spears showing off the many ways a coat like this can be worn.  For more great sale items from Urban Outfitters, click here! Happy Styling!

Inside A Style Blogger’s Closet: My New Year’s Eve Look At Half Price!

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My New Year’s resolution is to post at least one blog everyday.  I think at some post during 2011, I convinced myself that I could do two a day, but sometimes life threw other obligations in my way & that didn’t happen.  However, let’s start the new year off on the right high-heeled foot.

I wanted to share my look that I posted about a few nights ago, including the foil print laser cut sheath dress ($35.00) that I bought at half price from Dress Barn on Friday- the day before New Year’s Eve.  Then, on Saturday, my bestie, Rosie, & I hit up the mall for some great end-of-the-season deals to find ourselves a nice sweater & belt to complete our looks for the two separate venues in which we were attending festivities.

My belt was from New York & Company, priced right for under $20.00. However, the belt is not available on the store’s website, but I had been seeking to find something with a basic patent leather face, perfect for cinching me in at my smallest point, especially since the dress was so fitted. Also, I wanted to find something that I could also wear to dress up a more casual item that I’d wear for work. The shawl collar cardigan ($17.80) in black was a great purchase from Forever 21, especially b/c Rosie was looking for a similar style for her dress.  Low & behold the only two on the rack were in our sizes.  We snatched those puppies up & headed to the cash register.

Also, the black opaque tights were a Dress Barn purchase & what I loved was the control top on them, which was just enough to flatten out what needed flattening.  Lastly, I gifted myself the satin bejeweled peep toe pumps some time ago from Forever 21.  I recently wore them to a friend’s wedding with this dress from White House Black Market, so I knew they were comfortable for a night out in celebration of the new year.

What did you wear when the ball dropped?  Are you heading out to the stores now to catch end-of-the-season deals?  Happy 2012 & Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Style Darling Wishing You A Happy New Year (With Some Help from Sex & the City)!

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While preparing for my very lovely & exciting New Year’s Eve date tonight, I started thinking about the year 2011, which is when Style Darling really became a vehicle for me to share such a big part of myself as not only a writer, but as a woman, friend, world-traveler, & shoe lover.  I’ve had some personal highs & many recent personal lows, but during these last few emotional months, this virtual forum is where I can not only share what I love about fashion & style, but for the loyal readers that I do have, I’d like to think that I’ve set up a little community here where all styles & walks of life are welcome.

Even though I didn’t expect to have plans tonight, especially by the side of the individual with whom I have said plans, I’m super excited that I was able to find such a great deal on a cute dress to share with everyone.  Which brings me to think about some of my favorite icons of style… I wanted to share this video I found on YouTube of what’s probably one of the best New Year’s Eve movie moments, of course from the Sex & the City movie, starting with Miranda’s late-night phone call to Carrie.

Ladies, we’ve all been there, feeling lonely & down, especially when there may not be a romantic partner in the picture to share the special event of the changing of the year, but I’ve learned that in spending so much time all year building friendships, laughing, & experiencing life, no one is ever alone.  If you have a close group of friends, let them be your soulmates & every other guy (or whoever it is that you prefer) just enters & leaves your life if / when it’s supposed to happen. Love yourself.  Love style.  Love life. Happy New Year! Auguri! Be safe & responsible! Happy Styling!

Inside A Style Blogger’s Closet: A Last-Minute New Year’s Eve Invite = A Last-Minute Dress Barn Deal!

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Things are starting to look up for 2012 for this particular Style Darling.  Why, you ask? Last night, I was invited to attend a New Year’s Eve celebration, which prompted a fury of online dress scouring since I realized that all of my current dresses hanging in my closet were bought mostly for work, since I do like to look polished & trendy at my 40/hr a week job. I knew there were a few go-to stores to check out, but I was trapped in my cubicle, with only the guidance of the computer in fron of me.  I clicked through a flurry of websites, including New York & Company, JC Penney, White House Black Market, H&M, Forever 21, & Dress Barn.  Keeping in mind that I’m supposed to be on a budget since my departure for Italy is in less than two weeks, I had to find a great sale price for a lovely dress to ring in the new year.

I immediately fell in love with the foil printed laser cut sheath dress ($35.00) @Dress Barn, which was originally $69.99.  What’s even better is that I have a good rapport with the employees at the local Dress Barn, which I ran to during my lunch hour.  The ladies hooked me up with some black opaque tights since I didn’t want to venture out with bare legs on the chilly December evening.  Also, I was given a special rewards card to earn points for discounts on future purchases, as well as a great discount on the already reduced merchandise.

Since the festivities will include seeing a rock band perform, I’m thinking that I ought to dress down the sparkly number with a cute jacket or cardigan & some fierce gladiator-inspired shoes. Also, I’m thinking about adding a belt across the middle of the dress, just to help cinch in my waist.  Once I put my whole look together, I’ll try to post some pictures since I’m so exicted that I found such an amazing deal on such a flirty dress!

What are your plans for this Saturday night?  What are you going to wear? Have a happy & safe New Year’s!  Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: The Best (310) Celebrity Looks of 2011!

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I’ve been compiling a long list of my favorite looks during the 2011 calendar year & while there are still a few days left, I wanted to share the highs of the red carpet, press events, famous Style Darlings on the street, as well as the looks that have made the headlines.  This is the ultimate gallery of the ensembles to wear for formal occasions, out & about on the street, to a cocktail party, or a date night, including the best descriptions that I could find of who wore what!  For more looks that I’ve featured this year, check out Darling of the Day, Red Carpet Review, Magazine Must-Haves, Silver Screen Style, Style ABC’s (x3), & Watch This Style– all categories that thrive on celebrity-inspiration for your style on a budget.  I hope all of you had a prosperous 2011 & continue to do good for those around you, as well as for your style!  Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Get Sofia Vergara’s Collection @Kmart Before Store Closures!

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It’s been all over the news today that KMart stores across the country are in trouble, so I took the style liberty to check out what’s going on in terms of style at the retailer, which sells Sofia Vergara’s collection, aptly called Sofia by Sofia Vergara.  The affordable prices, figure-flattering cuts, & modern pieces are must-haves for any wardrobe.

Here are some of my favorite pieces that I will be checking out if & when I make my way to the local Kmart store.  The flared ink wash jeans ($20.99) are an easy fix to putting together a polished, but dressed down look for casual Fridays at the office.  Then after work, when you’re heading out for cocktails, throw on the lace back dress ($14.39) in green, which has a little surprise when you turn around to tip the bartender.

If you’re daring enough to show off your gams, try the lace micro mini skirt ($8.99) with a silk blouse & opaque tights.  If you’re looking for some glitzy shoes to wear when ringing in the new year, the tipsy red carpet pump ($19.99) in gold is the perfect way to complete your look.  Also, there are just some days when animal print does just the trick, so take a look at the bustier dress ($21.59), which is available in both neutral & grey, emphasizing your best assets. For a little splash of shine, the oval links bracelet ($9.99) in silver makes for a trendy way to punch up an LBD.  Lastly, ’tis the season for jegging jeans ($17.99) with an ultra slim ankle, perfect for wearing under boots of all heights.

I have previously reported on the collection, as seen here, but be sure to check back with Style Darling, as well as on the Kmart site for newer styles & markdowns on these sexy looks! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: I’m Pumped For These Nine West Flats!

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I’m not a fan of brown, but I do like the neutral shades of tan, nude, & beige to help bring out the simple elegance in a daytime look of dark denim jeans & a ruffled blouse with a cardigan.  For when I want to give my feet a break, or am just looking for a new way to put an outfit together, I like to look to my textured flats & here’s a perfect example if you’re looking to revamp your shoe collection for 2012.

The Nine West ‘Cacey’ flat ($39.50) in sahara suede shows off both suede & patent leather with a classic ballerina bow at the toe.  The flats also come in other styles & colors, including black & white polka dot, python, leopard, & black suede, but these are sold at the best price.

Because the color is so neutral, these can be worn all year long, especially with tweed trousers for work, a printed shirt dress in the spring, & romper & cropped cardigan in the summer.

For more great sales & quickie deals on must-haves, check out other Quickie Darling Deal & Steal posts, including a lace dress from Topshop, rust satin heels from Lulu’s, & my new favorite boots from Payless! Happy Styling!

12/26/11 Darling of the Day: Camilla Belle Shows Off This Season’s Essentials: Boots, Scarf, & a Leather Jacket!

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It’s been unseasonably mild so far this winter on Long Island, but it seems that stars all over the country, including Camilla Belle here in Hollywood with a Tolani scarf, are gearing up for the change in temperature.  Wearing layered pieces like a leather jacket with a tunic top, scarf, skinny jeans, & knee boots creates a look with dimension, personality, & shows that you’re an on-trend Style Darling!

I’ve found some complimentary pieces to help achieve this look, especially if you’re traveling somewhere that isn’t quite winter, but might require some back-up items like a hat or scarf.  Check out the leatherette jacket with ruffle collar ($34.80) & plus size leatherette aviator jacket ($29.80), both from Forever 21.  The keyhole-back printed shell ($29.99) from The Gap brings out some of the texture in the look, especially when paired with Old Navy‘s The Flirt skinny jeans ($11.97).

The extra pieces to help pull the look together include the Bamboo black zipper riding boots ($49.99) from Lulu’s, Minicci Friday shopper ($26.99) in dark green from Payless, black silk / wool scarf ($39.99) from Banana Republic, & a North Face beanie ($30.00) from Macy’s.

What do you think of Camilla’s street style?  Would you wear an outfit like this? Where do you find the best faux leather for your fall / winter looks?  Check out previously posts from Darling of the Day, including Katie Holmes, Blake Lively, & Pippa Middleton’s fabulous coats! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown / Watch This Style: Rachel Zoe’s 60s-Inspired Pre-Fall Collection + A Video Interview by Neiman Marcus Fashion Director, Ken Downing!

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It’s not a secret by now that one of my favorite style icons is the one & only Rachel Zoe!  I’ve posted so much about her collections (here & here), as well as honoring her as Style Darling’s very first (& so far only) .com Darling! Also, for my column “A Dash of Fashion” on Culture Mob, I recently wrote about Rachel’s fabulous jewelry collection on sale @QVC!

However, courtesy of In Style, we have some amazing images of Rachel’s latest pre-Fall collection, which includes a lot of 60s-inspiration with her signature 70s / boho chic elegance.  Rachel told the magazine, “I am so madly in love with this Pre-Fall collection! I really wanted to add a lot of mod elements to this season, the 60s is truly one of my favorite eras… We also expanded a ton on suiting, which will always be my signature, but we added an amazing new pencil skirt which should be a staple in everyone’s closet. There are definitely still some elements of the ‘70s too and the leathers and faux fur are to die for.”

There’s definitely evidence of inspiration here from icons like Coco Chanel, with the glamorous & tailored suits.  Not to mention that the more delicate pieces like mini dresses in soft fabrics & glittery cocktail dresses show off a youthful flair that Rachel is famous for bringing out in clients like Eva Mendes, Anne Hathaway, & Molly Sims.

Take a look at some of the best images from the multifaceted collection that will be available at upscale stores like Nordstrom & Neiman Marcus. Also, check out the exclusive interview with Rachel, courtesy of Neiman Marcus where she talks about her vision for her collection, as well as her style dos!  Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes for Less: Encrusted Belts By Lanvin @Bergdorf Goodman Vs. An Under $5.00 Find From Charlotte Russe!

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Do you need something special & embellished in a belt for this holiday season?  Well, check out these two belts!  Of course, nothing can compare to the luxury & craftsmanship behind the Lanvin label, one that is celebrated by actresses like Emma Stone, Natalie Portman, & Charlize Theron.  However, the price tag for a piece from the legendary brand is way out of budget, along with most of the other fashionable items sold @Bergdorf Goodman.

So in place of the crystal-encrusted clover belt ($1266.00) by Lanvin, here’s a much more inexpensive option that can be found @Charlotte Russe.  The black-gem stretch belt ($4.49) is currently reduced in price from $9.50 & will transform any sheath dress with some jewelry-inspired glamour.

For more Luxury Look-Alikes for Less, check out previous posts featuring embellished clutches, nude booties, & chandelier earrings! Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Replace The LBD With This All-Over Lace Dress from Topshop!

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Need some ideas for putting together an elegant New Year’s Eve look?  Of course LBDs are classic go-to options, but how about something in lace?  This bonded lace pencil dress ($45.00) from Topshop is currently marked down from $80.00!

I added some accessories to help build the look in many different directions.  Try a pop of color in modest heels like the ‘Influence’ bow pump ($19.99) in red from Payless, or go a little daring micro fiber tassel side zip platform bootie ($22.95) in black from GOjane.

To help cinch in your waist, try a tonal belt like the geometric glitter stretch belt ($9.50) from Charlotte Russe, which will add a contrasting deco feel to the already elegant look.  Also, when it comes to jewelry, a busy dress like this one demands refined pieces like the MixIt jet black statement necklace ($21.99) from JC Penney, or @Kohl’s you can find the silver tone multi-strand bracelet ($19.60) by Jennifer Lopez.

What are your plans for New Year’s Eve?  What are you thinking about wearing? Happy Holidays & Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Project Runway: All Stars Promo, Starring Mondo Guerra!

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For those of you who don’t watch Project Runway– first of all, shame on you & secondly, I am super psyched about the latest installment of the show, featuring an all-star competition.  I was very disappointed when Mondo Guerra, Season 8 finalist, didn’t win, but at least we can seem him design again on the new Project Runway: All Stars, starting on January 5th on Lifetime.


This is a short promo ad that I found on YouTube. Aside from winner Leanne Marshall from Season 5 & of course the hilarious combination of Christian Siriano & Chris March from Season 4, Mondo is one of my favorite designers.  Also, I included the runway show from Mondo’s final collection during Season 8, full of bold prints, playful color, & sassy style! Happy Holidays & Happy Styling!

Watch This Style / Silver Screen Style: The Top Picks from ‘The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo’ Collaboration with H&M!

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The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is in theaters now & you can even get Lisbeth Salander’s edgy, sporty style at your local H&M store.  A while ago, I posted (here) about the stylish, tattered collection, designed by the film’s costume designer, Trish Summerville.  Courtesy of FabSugarTV, here’s a video I found on YouTube, talking about the details behind the collection! Also, check out my more in-depth article from my column ‘A Dash of Fashion’ on Culture Mob! Happy Styling!

12/24/11 Darling of the Day: Katie Holmes Struts Her Stuff In Nine West Boots & A Comfy Sweater in NYC!

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I’ve been all about the big, chunky sweaters this season, especially since I’m crazy for my new boots & favorite leggings. There’s nothing more classic than a cream cable-knit sweater, like the one seen here, worn by Katie Holmes while taking a stroll in New York City.  The actress is also wearing leggings by The Girls, Nine West boots, & a red bag by Clare Vivier.

While this look would’ve been perfect for running around, getting all that holiday shopping done- we’re still in the very beginning of winter & it’s never too late for essential items like these to be added to your wardrobe.  I selected the ELLE pointelle cowl neck sweater ($34.80) from Kohl’s & Jessica London‘s turtleneck sweater ($34.99), which is available in sizes M-2x.

As for the leggings, I was so happy to find two pair that cost under $8.  This includes the Decree leggings ($7.99) from JC Penney, which also come in chocolate & gray, as well as the basic knit leggings ($6.50) from Forever 21‘s plus size line, Plus21.

When it come to the boots, I’m super jealous b/c I’ve wanted to find myself a good pair of gray knee boots this year, but since I’ve already bought the black ones (previously referenced), my budget won’t allow for another splurge.  However, the side ruffle suede platform boot ($19.95) from GOJane & Torrid‘s ‘Sally’ knee-high suede boots ($68.50) in wide-width are the best way to recreate the look!

Also, the last finishing touches on the look help bring this classic outfit into the spotlight, with square sunglasses ($5.80) & buckled leatehrette handbag ($24.80) in red, both from Forever 21.

Would you wear this look?  Would you change it up? Where are you shopping for boots & chunky sweaters?  Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: Get Ready for Rich, Rust Heels from Lulu’s!

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I’ve been at a loss for blogging inspiration lately, until I took the time to catch up with one of my favorite blogs, J’s Everyday Fashion.  She’s a major player in the world of style blogging today & is obsessed with mustard / gold hues, which I’ve always stayed away from, thinking that the color wouldn’t look good with my pale complexion.  She’s helped open my mind up to the color & I’m so excited to talk about these gorgeous Qupid ‘Nydia’ satin bow tie peep toe pumps ($25.00) in rust on Lulu’s!

The color is unexpected & much more luxe than the average gold or metallic-inspired satin heel for a formal or cocktail occasion.  The price was originally $36.00 & would make any LBD look fabulous for upcoming holiday parties.  In addition, they’re the most unexpected way to color block your outfit, especially if you’re wearing something in a deep plum, bright cobalt, or regal forest green. Happy Styling!

The Stylish Five: Last-Minute Stocking Stuffers ($15 & Under)!

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I managed to make my way to the local mall last night, just to assist the bestie in finding some secret Santa gifts.  I was not surprised at the amount of shoppers still remaining walking about, frantically in search to complete their gift list.  Or maybe I’m wrong & they’re all shopping for themselves?  Anyway, sometimes there’s more to life than building a quality, but affordable wardrobe, so I wanted to take a quick minute to feature some really cute stocking stuffer gifts for the last-minute Style Darling to consider.

Some of my favorite stores for accessories like Charlotte Russe & Forever 21 have affordable gift selections, which makes shopping all the more easier! If you have a friend who’s always listening to music on their iPod, or some other device with headphones, then maybe consider jazzing up their setup with a heart headphone splitter ($9.50), which is adorable adorned with pink rhinestones.  Also, to keep with the sparkly theme, I know I’m always looking for a new bobby pins & the multicolor bobby pin set ($4.50) which has 60-pins in total is just the way to go when I’m looking to tie my bangs back & coordinate it with my outfit too!

Also, for a Style Darling on a budget, I know I’m always keeping track of my coins.  I like to collect them every so often until I can’t zip my wallet closed & then deposit the loose change into my savings.  There’s another $20 or so set aside that I didn’t even know I had.  So… the sparkling piggy bank ($14.80) in pink may be just the thing for me to see how long I can go to fill it up before I make that deposit.  Perhaps, if that’s too much pink for the Style Darling in your life, there’s also one available in clear rhinestones!  This makes an especially fun gift since trying to save more money each year is among the most popular of resolutions.

As a writer, I would absolutely love the filigree pen holder ($4.80), which makes for a stylish addition to any desk.  It’s also great for storing little beauty necessities like bobby pins, cosmetic brushed, or to decorative with a votive inside.  Maybe if you use it to hold pens, it can serve your 2012 resolution of taking the time to put together hand-written notes, a dying art since Facebook, text messaging, & Skype are just a click away these days.

What better way to look forward to 2012, especially the fabulous & upcoming spring styles than with a leopard print umbrella ($6.50).  When you can’t quite make an animal print work in your outfit, here’s an easy solution to finding a way to show off your wild side.  Plus it’s super tiny & can fit in most tote bags to carry with you when inclement weather may or may not be on its way!

Where do you shop for last-minute gift items?  Is there something on here that I missed?  Would you find any of these picks useful for yourself? Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Behind-The-Scenes with Keira Knightley For Chanel’s Coco Mademoiselle Commercial!

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It wasn’t too long ago that I posted one of my first videos, Dior’s J’adore commercial, starring Charlize Theron as she gets ready for the catwalk at Dior’s show & shows a little love to icons like Grace Kelly, Marlene Dietrich, & my favorite, Marliyn Monroe.  Ever since then, I’ve been seeing Keira Knightley starring in commercials for Chanel & her most recent shoot for Coco Mademoiselle is extra elegant!  I found a behind-the-scenes video on YouTube, which is posted below, as well as the extended-cut of the commercial, which serves like a mini-movie / music video, featuring music by Joss Stone. Happy Styling!

12/21/11 Darling of the Day: Blake Lively Hits The Streets of Boston in Diesel!

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To help celebrate my 100th Darling of the Day post, I was searching high & low for a look that would suit most Style Darling & then this super chic image of Blake Lively came to me! The Gossip Girl star was out & about in Boston recently wearing a motorcycle jacket, lace-up boots, A Theodora & Callum scarf, Diesel jeans, & toted around an elegant Givenchy bag.

I’ve selected pieces for both women’s & plus sizes b/c style knows no shape- it knows all of them!  First off, the building blocks to pulling off this look include an essential baseball tee ($14.99) in black from Merona, available @Target, the (minus the) leather military bomber jacket ($82.80) from Express, & the Kut from the Kloth ‘Jennifer’ skinny jeans ($44.99) from Macy’s.  Both the jacket & jeans are reduced from their respective original prices of $138.00 & $79.00.

For my extra-curvy Style Darlings, I’ve picked out some equally-edgy plus size items that will take your wardrobe from girl-next-door to rocker-chic!  First off, head over to Forever 21 & check out their Plus21 department, which is where you’ll find the solid raglan top ($15.80) in black & fab skinny jeans ($13.50).  Also, @Jessica London, you can find the zip-trim leather jacket ($75.00) in black, but it’s also available in bold colors like amethyst, raspberry, blue, & coral in sizes 12-28.

The finishing touches on this look are easy to find, affordable to purchase, & most of all perfect for transforming a number of looks all season long.  The safari fringed printed scarf ($8.50) in grey / black is from Forever 21 & also comes in jade & blue options. The imitation leather messenger bag ($24.95) from H&M is perfect for carrying your iPod, Kindle, & some extra necessities when you’re on-the-go like Blake.  Lastly, the boots bring it all together!  The Fergalicious ‘Kerin’ boots ($17.49) are currently marked 75% off @6PM! Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes for Less: Get Embellished With A Clutch from Forever 21 or by Judith Leiber @Neiman Marcus!

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My apologies, Style Darlings, for the long-awaited return of my style posts.  This holiday season has demanded much of my time & now that I’m officially done with all school & baking obligations, I can devote more time to the best picks for the end of the year celebration.  What better way to do that than with a return to Luxury Look-Alikes for Less?!

If you’re looking for the best New Year’s Eve accessory as you’re making plans for a fabulous party, check out these two clutches, which vary in price by a wide margin!  Of course, there’s a certain je-ne-sais-quoi about the luxe design of a clutch by accessories-designer-to-the-stars, Judith Leiber, especially when it comes to this fizzy studded envelope clutch ($1595.00) from Neiman Marcus.  However, since we’re Style Darling son a budget, you can carry on the same embellished feel with the glamour pearl clutch bag ($14.80) from Forever 21, while saving yourself lots of money.  What’s so great about both of these bags is that they’re flashy enough for a girl’s night out, a more formal event, or for cocktail hour.  Remember: Style Darlings should always get the most out of their wardrobe & accessories, so let’s make that our resolution for 2012!  Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: I’m In Love With These Knee Boots!

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Okay, so I’ve been on the fierce search for some stylish knee boots all season long, ones that will comfortably fit around my shapely calves (a hard-earned feature since I’ve been wearing heels for the last 14 years of my life), especially ever since I received my acceptance to a Writer’s Conference in Florence, Italy next month.  I did attend earlier in 2011, but managed to only pack my outfits for function & not so much for fashion since I don’t have a whole lot of travel experience & was concerned about my luggage getting lost.  As fabulous as my ten days in the Renaissance city were, I didn’t meet my own stylish expectations, but lesson learned & I will be returning all the more knowledgable & stylish.

After surrendering my legs to many different fittings of boots, mostly from my shoe-flasgship-store, Payless, I finally discovered the American Eagle Nola Cozy Wedge ($29.99) in black.  My search wasn’t supposed to lead me to wedges or anything with the heel, since the Florentine streets are notoriously laid with cobblestone & I nearly twisted both ankles simultaneously while prancing about on my first night in high-heeled ankle booties.  The rest of my trip consisted of flat ankle boots & sneakers.  Unfortunately the latter pair was worn on the rainy day that I decided to hit up the Salvatore Ferragamo museum.  Shame on me!!

However, once I stood tall in a cute leggings & long sweater outfit while donning these boots pictured to the right, they felt right at home on my feet & there was no way that I wouldn’t be headed to a country shaped like a boot in anything other than these fabulous finds!

I was so relieved since suede is my go-to fabric for fall / winter footwear.  There’s just something to lush & luxurious since you can basically wear leather footwear all year long, making suede a little extra special.  Not to mention that the ankle-buckle details & fur trim are adorable!  However, if the black style isn’t for you, there’s also a super cute brown pair, also reduced from its original $49.99 price. The $29.99 sale price was especially right since the boots are an early Christmas present from my mother to me!

If you sign up for emails from Payless, you can get news on all the latest sales, including when their next BOGO 50% off will be, as well as learn about special coupon codes for 20% off! Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Long Live Lipstick Jungle, Featuring Victory Ford, Nico Reilly, & Wendy Healy!

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Unfortunately, one of my favorite short-lived shows, Lipstick Jungle, was canceled a few years back, but I found myself searching away on YouTube for a darling clip of the show that I still love sooo much! Even though the show, created by Sex & the City author Candace Bushnell, lasted a whole 20 episodes, I wanted to share this clip.

The show starred Brooke Shields as movie exec Wendy Healy, Kim Raver as media mogul Nico Reilly, & Lindsay Price as fashion designer Victory Ford.  I have to say that Nico & Victory were my favorites, but fashion played such a big role in the show, as though it was a whole other character, defining each of the powerful women.

Take a look & enjoy! Express your love for the show, just as I have.  Obviously, it’s not coming back, but it’s worth the almost 7-minutes here! I’ll be sure to post more video clips of the show that continues to inspire my style & wardrobe, as well as strengthen my relationships with my closest female friends. If you like this post, then check out more from Watch This Style, featuring Sex & the City 2 clips,  looks from the stars of Pan Am, & Gwen Stefani’s Top 5 Most Stylish Music Videos! Happy Styling!