Accessories Access: Summer’s Best Statement Jewelry For $10 & Under!

Posted on June 25, 2015 by Alissa

When it comes to transitioning your wardrobe from season to season, sometimes favorite repeats from years past just need a little reinventing with bold, statement jewelry. For myself, I’ve been diving into accessories lately, finding new ways to wear my favorite tops with a little pop of color or sparkle. Also, I’m crazy about dressing up something casual with ornate earrings & an embossed cuff bracelet. As usual, as a Style Darling on a budget, I’ve found six items in each general jewelry category for $10 or under for your shopping & style inspiration!

For high-profile red carpet events, celebrities don statement earrings to compliment their looks, but these stunners aren’t just for gowns & cocktail dresses. Baubles & gem dripping from ears totally elevate any outfit, as seen on Zoe Saldana, Kate Hudson, Emma Roberts, & Emily Blunt.

SHOP: 1. circular long earrings ($4.29) @Chic Nova, 2. fan statement earrings ($7.99) @Target, 3. Jennifer Lopez geometric disc earrings ($9.00) @Kohl’s, 4. gem drop earrings ($7.00) in black @Boohoo, 5. faceted drop earrings ($6.00) in blue @Charlotte Russe, & 6. statement stud earrings ($9.97) in pink @Nor dstrom Rack.

When it comes to statement necklaces, it’s important to be aware of your dress or shirt’s neckline to truly show off the details in your jewelry. Let the necklace do all the talking & take note of the confidence in celebs like Heidi Klum, Jessica Biel, Nina Dobrev, & Amy Adams featured below.

SHOP: 1. facet stone statement necklace ($3.49) in pink @Charlotte Russe, 2. gem statement necklace ($8.90) in nude @Forever 21, 3. chain collar necklace ($6.98) @Target, 4. layered statement necklace ($5.00) in black @Icing, 5. 3-layer necklaces ($9.99) in rose gold @H&M, & 6. flower statement necklace ($7.99) @JC Penney.

Sometimes your dress or outfit is so sleek & simple, dressing it up with a statement bracelet is all you need to do, especially when sporting a head-to-toe monochromatic look. That’s when your sparkle will say the most, just like on Drew Barrymore, Selena Gomez, Olivia Palermo, & Emma Watson.

SHOP: 1. teardrop stretch bracelet ($7.99) @New York & Company, 2. hammered stone cuff ($6.00) @Charlotte Russe, 3. curly cuff ($10.00) in silver @Shoptiques, 4. cut-out cuff bracelet ($4.90) @Forever 21, 5. large bead cuff ($5.85) in black @Swell, & 6. engraved cuff ($8.00) @Boohoo.

Lastly, a statement cocktail ring adds a special touch of glamour & chicness, complimenting your manicure, while tying the whole look together in an understated way. Check out what Blake Lively, Rihanna, Eva Mendes, & Kerry Washington wear for that little something extra.

SHOP: 1. LC Lauren Conrad leaf ring ($6.40) @Kohl’s, 2. faux stone ring ($4.90) @Forever 21, 3. diamante ring ($7.00) @Boohoo, 4. faceted stone cocktail ring ($6.00) @Charlotte Russe, 5. three-part ring ($9.95) @H&M, & 6. etched ring ($10.00) in gold @Chicos.

How do you like to wear statement jewelry? Which is your favorite? Do you prefer gold or silver, beads or stones, or feminine or edgy pieces? Which celebrity’s jewelry style inspires you? For more stylish posts, check out Target’s newest collaboration with Eddie Borgo, the latest red carpet looks from celebs like Taylor Swift & Gigi Hadid, Cara Delevingne’s menswear look while promoting Paper Towns, & the gold wedge espadrille trend for summer. Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: The Eddie Borgo Accessories Collection for Target Lookbook!

Posted on June 23, 2015 by Alissa

Last month, Target announced its newest collaboration with accessories designer Eddie Borgo, & now the entire lookbook has hit the web. The collection includes tons of modern jewelry, clutches & bags, as well as whimsical home decor, set to hit stores on July 12th, ranging in price from $7.99 to $49.99. The face of the line is none other than the always gorgeous model & designer darling, Poppy Delevingne.

In the retailer’s press release of the new line, Borgo’s designs are hailed as “the designer’s signature aesthetic – geometric shapes and symbols inspired by sculptural art and architecture – and on-trend textures, colors and finishes (think silver, gold and rose gold combined with materials like hand-poured resin, brass mesh and chains).”

Also, Borgo shares, “When designing this collection, I was inspired by the idea of modernizing the 1960s and 1970s craft culture and empowering people to be creative… It’s been exciting to bring the spirit of this collection to life, and I can’t wait to see how Target’s guests make it their own.”

What do you think of Target’s newest collaboration & designer? Are you fan of Target’s previous designer campaigns? For more on the success of these brand name collaborations, check out galleries from 3.1 Phillip Lim, Altuzarra, Prabal Gurung, & Kate Young. To check out more stylish posts, click through the latest red carpet looks from Gigi Hadid & Emilia Clarke, Cara Delevingne’s recent look while promoting Paper Towns, gold wedge espadrilles from Steve Madden & Dress Barn, & my newest summer favorites from Old Navy & H&M. Happy Styling!

Inside A #StyleBlogger’s Closet: My New, Affordable Summer Favorites!

Posted on June 10, 2015 by Alissa

I’ve been off the grid, but now Style Darling is back with plenty of affordable & stylish summer finds that I know I was pretty psyched to add to my wardrobe. Always with a budget in mind, I came across some summer must-haves, including maxi dresses, footwear (sandals & flats), totes, & jewelry. Also, when it comes to making seasonal investments, I seek out pieces that I can get as much wear from, transitioning pieces (especially accessories) from season to season. This summer, I’m not only planning a Hamptons getaway, but I’m also hard at work & making plenty of time for social calls, which makes me want to amp up my staples for more than one occasion. The following buys are the newest additions to my wardrobe, & I hope they’ll inspire my readers as well!

SHOP: Covington maxi dress ($24.00) in black @Sears & Covington maxi dress ($24.00) in tribal @Sears.

SHOP: Libby jeweled sandal ($24.99) in gold @Dress Barn & linen blend scrunch flats ($22.94) off white @Old Navy.

SHOP: floral handbag ($25.20) in black & white @Dress Barn & patterned shopper ($9.95) @H&M.

SHOP: earrings set ($9.95) in rose gold @H&M & rhinestone button stud earrings ($6.00 / 2 for $10.00) in silver @Charlotte Russe.

What are your favorite summer buys? What stores are you shopping for the latest trends this season? For more stylish posts, check out summer celebrity style featuring Olivia Palermo & Victoria Beckham, Charlize Theron’s Forever 21 jumpsuit look, the complete red carpet gallery of this year’s Met Ball including Rihanna & Beyoncé, & Top 10 Celeb Sightings with Iggy Azalea & Taylor Swift. Happy Styling!

Color Me Style: White-Hot White Style For Spring, Inspired by Victoria Beckham, Lily James, Gwen Stefani, & More!

Posted on March 20, 2015 by Alissa

While there’s snow outside during this first week of spring, I have my eye on transitioning between seasons with the color white. Celebrities have made winter white super white-hot, but as we move into the warmer season, a bright pop of white, when it comes to separates, a dress, a full on monochromatic look, & accessories, will certainly look fresh & stylish.

Also, white isn’t just for brides since it works to brighten any skin tone, as we can see during the latest red carpet appearances of some of our favorite A-listers, especially in gorgeous white dresses & gowns.

Shailene Woodley stunned in an ivory silk & organza gown with an open back by Ralph Lauren Collection (shop here) at the London premiere of Insurgent. Supermodel Karlie Kloss went minimal in a white & black accented Tom Ford Fall 2015 Collection cut-out column gown at the Brit Awards red carpet. Brit beauty Elizabeth Hurley hit the red carpet in a white curve-hugging lace-paneled pencil dress with Chopard diamonds, a metallic clutch, & gray pointy toe pumps at the NYC premiere of The Royals. Actress Olga Kurylenko was gorgeous in a sleeveless white midi length dress with a hot pink ombre clutch & metallic rose pumps at The Winter Music Brit Party 2015.

There’s nothing more classic than a white button down shirt, blouse, or t-shirt, but sometimes it’s adding that topper to your color blocked, playful, or formal looks that can transform your entire view on the staple must-have white top.

Fashion icon Gwen Stefani hit the street in a white sheer top with black zippered skinny jeans, an oversize shopper, & mesh open-toe booties in L.A. Singer Solange Knowles took a risk in a white caped Balmain top (here) & belted wide-leg pants with a wooden clutch & black sandals at the Balmain Fall Winter 2015 show at Paris Fashion Week. Oscar-nominee Reese Witherspoon spent the day shopping in a white blouse with a floral flounced Dolce & Gabbana skirt, Tabitha Simmons basket weave wedges (shop here), & white leather bag from The Row. Author of The Divergent Series, Veronica Roth, wowed in an Ann Demeulemeester white blazer with a camisole, striped Michael Lo Sordo asymmetric skirt, Salvatore Ferragamo clutch, Tory Burch sandals, & Le Vian jewels.

Wearing white on the bottom is sometimes a big risk, but try mixing up skirts, trousers, & jeans in a quality fabric to get the most out of your favorite blouses, sweaters, & crop tops.

Modern Family actress Sarah Hyland looked playful in a lavender busier top with a white midi skirt, bejeweled clutch, & mint green Bionda Castana pumps (shop here) at the 32nd Annual Paleyfest. Style blogger / actress Jamie Chung took her adorable pup for a walk in a striped tank by twenty with a white midi length skirt, leather moto jacket, cut-out booties by Sol Sana (here), & black leather shoulder bag. Fashion it-girl Olivia Palermo showed her support for the Chalayan Fall Winter 2015 show during Paris Fashion Week in an oatmeal turtleneck knit with a white leather fringe midi-length pencil skirt, a white clutch, lavender pumps. Academy Award winner Julianne Moore was effortless in a navy sweater & blazer with white trousers & a long pendant necklace.

There are even those who have dares to wear head-to-toe white in a chic, sleek monochromatic look, playing with menswear inspiration, volume & cut-outs, & soft edges.

Victoria Beckham, Julianne Hough, Lily James, & Robin Wright.

Designer Victoria Beckham showed off her own Victoria Beckham design in a high neck sleeveless dress with cut-outs, a full skirt, & white pointed toe platform pumps at the amfAR Hong Kong gala. Dancing with the Stars alum Julianne Hough mixed menswear in a semi-sheer A.L.C. blouse with flared trousers & Kurt Geiger snakeskin pumps (shop here) for an appearance on Extra. Cinderella star Lily James was ethereal in a Camilla & Marc white top (shop here) & skirt with a statement gold necklace, Jennifer Fisher rings, & metallic sandals at a Cinderella event. At the House of Cards season premiere in London, Robin Wright looked sleek in a white suit with a black cami & python pumps.

Aside from the red cart, white stunned on recent runways during Fashion Weeks across the world, especially in gorgeous dresses from the collections of Roland Mouret Spring 2015 Ready-To-Wear, Jean Paul Gaultier Spring 2015 Couture, & 3.1 Phillip Lim Fall Winter 2015.

Also, white separates glowed on the runway, especially in the catwalk shows from Jonathan Saunders Spring 2015 Ready-To-Wear, Honor Spring 2015 Ready-To-Wear, & Osman Spring 2015 Ready-To-Wear.

With all this celebrity & designer inspiration, it’s time to take the white idea to your wardrobe & on your must-have shopping list, starting with affordable dresses, perfect for a variety of shapes & sizes.

SHOP: skater dress @Charlotte Russe ($19.99), maxi dress @Romwe ($28.00), bodycon dress @Missguided ($29.98), & fit & flare dress @Dress Barn ($48.00).

Step away from black tops & try these options in white to add a bright pop against a pencil skirt, pastel jeans, menswear trousers, or leather paneled leggings.

SHOP: tee @Alloy ($5.99), v-neck @JC Penney ($9.99), blouse @Forever 21 ($14.90), & sweater @Nordstrom Rack ($24.97).

Experiment with white bottoms with figure-hugging skinny jeans, playful skirts, & this season’s must-have look, culottes with heels.

SHOP: jeans @YOOX ($24.00), pencil skirt @Old Navy ($29.94), culottes @JC Penney ($36.00), & midi skirt @ASOS ($42.00).

Now is the times favorite white accessories, including shoes like flats with a shirt dress, embossed sandals for a cocktail frock, wedges with jeans & a blouse, & pumps for an office look.

SHOP: flats @Target ($19.98), wedges @Famous Footwear ($25.00), sandals @6PM ($29.99), & pumps @Boohoo ($44.00).

When breaking out new spring separates & jackets, a white bag or clutch is great to pair against primary colors, rich neutrals, soft pastels, & bold prints.

SHOP: clutch @Dorothy Perkins ($17.00), tote @Alloy ($29.99), messenger @Last Call ($45.00), & bucket bag @Shoptiques ($35.00).

Wearing white jewelry is sure to pop against with any ensemble. Choose drop earrings for a party look, a statement necklace over a sheath dress, studs for a casual outfit, & bangles in mixed metallics.

SHOP: drop earrings @ChicNova ($2.88), necklace @H&M ($9.95), studs @River Island ($6.00), & bangle @Designs by Stephene ($20.00).

What do you think of wearing white? Which celebrities wear white the best? Who do you turn to for style inspiration? Which white pieces were your favorite? For more stylish & affordable fashion posts, check out the complete red carpet gallery from last month’s Academy Awards, Oscar de la Renta’s Fall Winter 2015 collection from Fashion Week, bucket bags inspired by Michael Kors & Tory Burch, & four fabulous ways wear floral leggings! Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes for Less: Bucket Bags for Spring, Michael Kors vs. Target, & More!

Posted on February 5, 2015 by Alissa

One of the biggest bag trends for spring is the bucket bag, perhaps for the variety of fabrics, patterns, material, & detailed straps that can go into the spacious accessory. Although bucket bags have been around for quite a while, celebrities have been toting the bag around since last year. They’re perfect for traveling, when you’re on the go, or headed for out for lunch with the girls.

This perfect all-purpose day bag has been spotted on A-listers & style icons like Wild star Reese Witherspoon with a yellow Elizabeth & James bucket bag, model Miranda Kerr with a hot pink bag, actress & fashion blogger Jamie Chung with a printed Elizabeth & James bag, & actress-dancer Julianne Hough with a tan bucket bag.

Just for fun, I wanted to share some gorgeous luxury bucket bags, which come in many forms, with many strap varieties, buckets, studs, & ties. Of course, these gorgeous & high quality bags are investment pieces, but when you’re shopping on a budget, they’re pretty steep when it comes to price tags.

SHOP: Saint Laurent ($2,150.00) in red @Net-A-Porter, Michael Kors ($822.94) in blue @Farfetch, Alice + Olivia ($695.00) in black @Neiman Marcus, Elizabeth & James ($595.00) in cream @Bergdorf Goodman, Tory Burch ($475.00) in gold @Saks Fifth Avenue, & Halston ($325.00) in pink @Shop Bop.

And for those Style Darlings who are looking to upgrade their accessories collection for less with an affordable bucket bag, I’ve found these six picks, for $25.00 & under!

SHOP: red ($15.99) @MANGO, white ($16.00) @Boohoo, navy ($19.99) @Target, black ($20.00) @Charlotte Russe, taupe ($24.90) @Forever 21, & brown ($25.00) @Aeropostale.

Would you wear a bucket bag? How much do you typically spend on handbags & purses? Which accessory do you usually splurge on? For more stylish posts, check out how to wear floral leggings in four ways, Alexandre Vauthier’s Spring 2015 Couture collection, the latest red carpet looks from Anne Hathaway & Felicity Jones, the fringe trend inspired by Scarlett Johansson & Shailene Woodley, & Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s London street style look for less! Happy Styling!

Fabulous in 4 Ways: Floral Leggings for Day, Work, Date, & Weekend (Dedicated to Kristen)!

Posted on February 4, 2015 by Alissa

This has been a season of leggings, especially for those us who have been feeling the sweet consequences of the holidays & blizzards in the north-east. However, that’s no reason to get lazy about your style, especially when leggings come in all prints & patterns. Floral leggings are a stylish play on stretchy bottoms & the possibilities of outfits are endless, thanks to my friend, Kristen, who came to me with this idea. In my latest Fabulous in 4 Ways post, instead of styling just one pair of floral leggings, I sought out four must-have & affordable pairs to wear for day, work, date night, & weekend looks.

When headed out on daily errands, coffee with the girls, or planning your next dinner party, floral leggings work, allowing for a mixture of textures to enrich your daytime look.

SHOP: leggings ($24.99) in multi @Bluefly, sweater ($24.90) in navy / orange @Forever 21, boots ($55.00) in taupe @ALDO, bag ($25.16) @Chic Nova, & stud earrings ($5.00) in gold @Wallis.

Depending on your office environment, floral leggings are also a possibility for your work look. When it comes to casual Friday or a business casual dress code, try leggings with a mini dress, boyfriend cardigan, or long blazer.

SHOP: leggings ($14.69) @Lord & Taylor, sheath dress ($17.80) in black @Forever 21, ankle booties ($19.97) in grey @Nordstrom Rack, tote ($17.99) in black @Shoptiques, & necklace ($8.74) @Target.

When it comes to date night, instead of a classic LBD, try floral leggings with some metallic detail, which instantly dresses up your look. Pairing them with a pop of color & luxe accessories is the perfect way to dress to impress.

SHOP: leggings ($14.00) @Boohoo, blouse ($28.27) in red @Romwe, boots ($25.99) in black @Shoes.com, clutch ($21.99) in gold @6PM, earrings ($9.80) @JC Penney, & necklace ($8.74) @Target.

I love weekend looks because they present a combination of casual & chic. If you’re going to a B&B, traveling to a vineyard for a four-day weekend, or reading a good book & drinking hot chocolate, layering cozy separates in lightweight fabrics can transform the way you enjoy your down time.

SHOP: leggings ($10.00) @H&M, blouse ($19.99) in pink @MANGO, cardigan ($12.95) in black @H&M, ballet flats ($11.99) in black @Wet Seal, tote ($21.00) @Shoptiques, stud earrings ($6.93) @Express.

Do you dare to wear floral leggings? How do you like to style them? Would you wear floral leggings on a date or to work? For more stylish posts, check out Megan Fox & Felicity Jones’ latest red carpet looks, Viktor & Rolf’s Spring 2015 Couture collection, how to wear the fringe trend for spring inspired by Scarlett Johansson & Heidi Klum, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s street style for less, & affordable ear cuffs & front to back earrings from Nasty Gal & River Island. Happy Styling!

Basics for a Bargain: The Fringe Trend, Inspired by Scarlett Johansson, Heidi Klum, Jamie Chung & More (Dedicated to Marlene)!

Posted on February 2, 2015 by Alissa

When it comes to seeking out some style inspiration, turning to my friends is always the best resource, which is how I came to find (from one Marlene) that there was a big trend that’s been building in the fashion world. Fringe is back. Have no fear, when it comes to fringe, it’s all about moderation. I’m not talking about a full-on Western look, or anything crazy from the 70s, but a nod to another time or fantasy world isn’t so bad to include in your day-to-day wardrobe.

Fringe was spotted on the Spring Summer 2015 runways all over the world, especially from designers like Etro, Givenchy, Fendi, Proenza Schouler, Marco de Vincenzo, & Elie Tahari.

Over the years, celebrities have also been sneaking this trend on the red carpet, wearing fringe on dresses, tops, capes, & skirts. When done right, fringe can do no wrong. For example, fringe works on actress Scarlett Johansson (in Preen), Shameless star Emmy Rossum (in Stella McCartney), Bond girl Naomie Harris (in Naeem Khan), & model Suki Waterhouse at a Topshop event.

Also, during this past season of Project Runway, winner Sean Kelly designed this flirty cobalt & black fringe gown for the show’s host Heidi Klum to wear at last year’s Creative Arts Emmy Awards. Also, rocking the fringe trend are Divergent star Shailene Woodley (in Emilio Pucci), dancer-turned-singer-turned-actress Julianne Hough (in Sass & Bide), & fashion blogger Jamie Chung (in BCBG Max Azria).

To integrate fringe into your wardrobe, here are some affordable & easy-to-wear fringe toppers & fringe bottoms that are sure to dress up your casual separates & create new opportunities to get the most out of your closet.

SHOP: dolman top ($17.99) in black @Macy’s, fringed pullover sweater ($49.95) in light grey @Anthropologie, hooded cardigan ($42.00) in oxblood @Nordstrom.

SHOP: fringe shorts ($29.97) in tan @Nordstrom Rack , faux leather skirt ($24.95) in black @H&M, & fringe mini ($34.99) in black @Banana Republic.

Lastly, fringe accessories are also here to stay, including bags, scarves, & shoes. When it comes to adding detail to your look, fringe is a fresh way to go, also coordinated with metallic grommet, textured panels, & colorblocking.

SHOP: crossbody bag ($19.90) in brown @Forever 21, clutch ($35.99) in black @6PM, plaid scarf ($18.95) @Shoptiques, shimmer scarf ($9.99) in lime @Aeropostale, heels ($38.99) @Charlotte Russe, & ballet flats ($49.00) @YOOX.

Do you wear fringe? Do you prefer fringe separates, dresses, or accessories? Which celebrity is wearing fringe the best right now? For more stylish posts, check out Runway Rundown galleries featuring Elie Saab & Atelier Versace, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s London street style look for less, ear cuffs & front to back earrings inspired by Keira Knightley & Kate Mara, & how to style prints & patterns like Lea Michele & Gwen Stefani! Happy Styling!

1/31/2015 Darling of the Day: Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s London Street Style for Less!

Posted on January 31, 2015 by Alissa

When it comes to street style, there are so many A-listers to look to for inspiration, including British model & actress, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. She was spotted out & about in London this week, showing off her usual blend of edgy meets classic, mixing neutrals with luxe fabrics in a look that can be easily duplicated for a Style Darling on a budget.

SHOP: coat ($44.00) in cream @Boohoo, sweater ($17.99) in grey @Kohl’s, faux leather skirt ($29.99) in black @Century 21, tote ($24.48) in black @Target, pumps ($29.99) @Bonton, & necklace ($7.90) @Forever 21.

What do you think of Rosie’s look? How do you style leather separates? Are you brave enough to wear a cream coat this season? For more stylish posts, check out the latest trend in earrings inspired by Cara Delevingne & Emma Watson, Atelier Versace’s Spring 2015 Couture collection from Paris, patterned separates inspired by Jessica Alba & Gwen Stefani, Reese Witherspoon’s preppy look for less, & the complete red carpet gallery from this year’s Screen Actor’s Guild Awards. Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: Front to Back Earrings & Ear Cuffs, Inspired by Emma Stone, Lupita Nyong’o, & More!

Posted on January 30, 2015 by Alissa

One of the biggest jewelry trends to hit the red carpet, runway, & stores including dazzling ear cuffs & sophisticated front to back earrings. I’m crazy for earrings, especially because I have five piercings in each ear, but for those who don’t dare to go under the gun, an ear cuff is the perfect solution. Also, when a stud needs a little something extra, a front to back earring is both delicate & trendy.

Ear cuffs have been spotted & ogled on the red carpet as recently as this year’s Screen Actor’s Guild Awards & last year’s Met Gala. From the looks of Oscar-winner Jennifer Lawrence, supermodel Cara Delevingne, America’s sweetheart Emma Stone, & British beauty Keira Knightley, this look is here to stay.

Also, when it comes to front to back earrings, Hollywood’s chicest celebrities wear them for day & evening occasions. This includes style icon Sarah Jessica Parker, actress Lupita Nyong’o, former House of Cards star Kate Mara, & red carpet regular, Emma Watson.

Both jewelry trends can be obtained & styled to your heart’s content, especially for a budget shopper. Not only do they serve a date night outfit, but they can instantly dress up a daytime look with details like pearls, rhinestones, flowers & leaves, spikes, & flirty shapes.

SHOP: feather cuff ($7.00) @Boohoo, pearl cuff ($12.00) @Nasty Gal, hoop ear cuff ($7.99) @MANGO, & rhinestone cuff set ($5.90) @Forever 21.

SHOP: flower stud front to back earrings ($8.00) @River Island, pearl front to back earrings ($12.00) @Topshop, stone cluster front to back earrings ($7.99) @Target, & rhinestone ear jackets ($3.90) @Forever 21.

Which earring trend are you following? Do you prefer gold or silver? Which celebrity do you think is pulling off the trend the best? For more stylish posts, check the latest Spring 2015 Couture collections from Schiaparelli & Christian Dior, how to dress for your body shape, Reese Witherspoon’s preppy look for less, the complete red carpet gallery from this year’s Screen Actors Guild Awards & Golden Globes, & spring dress predictions inspired by Allison Williams & Camilla Belle. Happy Styling!

Style Tip: How To Dress Your Best For Your Body Type (Dedicated to Kerri)!

Posted on January 27, 2015 by Alissa

After a lot of research & gathering of information, I’ve FINALLY put together some really important tips for how to dress your best for your body type, especially after getting feedback from my friend, Kerri! Clearly, not all women are created equally & thank goodness for that! It’s about time I’ve addressed this issue, especially since the rules are always changing, but here are some very essential ideas in order to work your assets the best way possible for hourglass, diamond, rectangular / straight, inverted triangle, pear, & oval / apple body shapes.

What shape are you? How do you like to dress to best show off your curves or enhance your figure? For more stylish posts, be sure to check out complete red carpet galleries from the SAGs & Golden Globe Awards, celebrity-inspired spring dress predictions, how to style an affordable statement necklace, & Natalie Portman’s Dior look for less. Happy Styling!

Fabulous In 4 Ways: A Bold Statement Necklace For Under $12!

Posted on January 23, 2015 by Alissa

Although the holidays may be over, that doesn’t mean it’s time to put away your best & most sparkly accessories & that includes statement necklaces. I’m pretty new to the bauble club, but I’m having fun experimenting with different ways to wear the bold piece of jewelry, which is what inspired my latest post for Fabulous in 4 Ways. I’m excited to explore the variety of style choices one can make with a statement necklace, especially when headed out for a day off of lunch with the girls, to the office for a big meeting, a cocktail party on a date, or a weekend getaway trip.

Statement necklaces have been a prominent go-to accessory for celebrities over the years, including supermodel Coco Rocha, pop star Katy Perry in Amrapali, actress Emma Roberts, style icon Olivia Palermo, Molly Sims in a floral necklace, & Hart of Dixie‘s Jamie King.

To start this project, I choose the statement necklace ($11.98) in black & gold from Target, which has just enough glitz & glam to dress up several combinations of basics with prints & rich textures.

Target - statement necklace $11.98.

For daytime, I love the ease of this look & how just one piece instantly adds some punch against the backdrop of casual separates. Also, the necklace is successful over a basic blouse & colorblock look for a fashionable office environment, playing up your personality, yet still remaining professional.

SHOP day look: sweater ($24.80) @Forever 21, jeans ($19.99) @Zara, & ballet flats ($44.10) @Bon Ton. SHOP work look: top ($25.00) @Topshop, skirt ($34.11) @ASOS, & shoes ($32.99) @Charlotte Russe.

When headed to a cocktail party, a statement necklace is just the piece to elevate a classic LBD, sheath, or lace frock. Lastly, when taking a road trip for the weekend, a statement necklace is perfectly interchangeable when considering how to efficiently pack to get the most out of your wardrobe.

SHOP cocktail look: dress ($49.99) @ModCloth, sandal ($19.94) @DSW, & clutch ($15.00) @Payless. SHOP weekend look: sweater ($19.97) @New York & Company, sweat pants ($41.30) @Last Call, booties ($44.99) @Nine West, & cardigan ($18.99) @Kohl’s.

For more statement necklace inspiration, I choose a few more styles that are both affordable & adjustable to any neckline for any outfit.

SHOP: gothic collar necklace ($16.00) @Boo Hoo, marquise necklace ($15.00) @Charming Charlie, tribal necklace ($12.90) @Forever 21, & pharaoh bib necklace ($20.00) @Bauble Bar.

Which way would you wear a statement necklace? What’s your favorite go-to piece of jewelry? Do you mix p your wardrobe staples to create new, stylish options? For more fashionable posts, check out Natalie Portman’s Dior look for less, full red carpet galleries from the Critics Choice Awards & this year’s Golden Globes, Runway Rundown lookbooks from Jenny Packham & Alice + Olivia, & affordable fashion inspired by HBO’s Girls. Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Get Inspired By HBO’s ‘Girls’ & Preview The Exciting 4th Season!

Posted on January 8, 2015 by Alissa

If you’ve seen Style Darling‘s Instagram (@MissAlissaL), then you know that I can’t wait for the fourth season premiere of HBO’s Girls. It’s one of those shows that I love because I can relate to it when it comes to friendships & relationships, I laugh my butt off at the wit & ridiculousness of the show’s clueless & brilliant characters, & because it almost always makes me feel a little bit more together as a young woman trying to make it in the world. Also, the show is a terrific example of real-life style from its four main characters: Hannah Horvath (Lena Dunham), Marnie Michaels (Allison Williams), Jessa Jenkins (Jemima Kirke), & Shoshanna Shapiro (Zosia Mamet). Clearly, each character isn’t trotting the streets of New York in impossibly expensive designer duds, which is something else that I can appreciate about the exciting dramedy!

Hannah isn’t without style, but her interpretation combines basics with her quirky sense of self. She’s not afraid of color & pattern, & always wears what she likes above what trends may be most popular. She can be seen in cutesy Peter Pan collared shirts, floral print rompers, teeny sweaters & bright pants, & shoes that she almost always can’t walk in. But we love Hannah because she tries her best to be inspired by the 50s classic cuts & whimsical patterns.

SHOP: blouse ($68.22) @ASOS, jeans ($24.99) @Old Navy, loafers ($15.90) @Forever 21, & shoulder bag ($36.63) @Chic Nova.

Marnie is certainly the sophisticated shopper among the characters, wearing tailored looks that blend femininity & maturity. She tries to exude through her style the life she wants to live, often in sleek dresses, preppy separates, unstructured pieces, & core accessories that interfere with her goals. She invests in pieces that can be worn a variety of ways, but are still timeless as she seeks to attain a lifestyle equally as fancy as her tastes.

SHOP: jacquard dress ($27.98) @New York & Company, Nine West pump ($59.95) @DSW, cardigan ($17.00) @H&M, & necklace ($15.00) @Charming Charlie.

Jessa is a bohemian of the quartet, mixing prints & billowing volume to express her carefree spirit. She’s always feminine, but on the verge of hippie chic with peasant tops, maxi dresses, long sweaters, crop tops, & loose-fitting pants. I love watching Jessa for her accessories, which almost always include some sort of feather detail, gemstone, layers of metals, or harder gothic inspiration against the softness of her preferred fabrics.

SHOP: blouse ($37.00) @Lulu’s, harem pants ($19.90) @Romwe, cardigan ($40.00) @Topshop, heels ($29.20) @GOJane, & earrings ($8.90) @Forever 21.

Shoshanna is the youngest of the girls with a lot to learn about self-editing. She is as accessorized as she is articulate, with plenty of hair styles to match with her girlie, on-trend style. She can be found in form-fitting mini dresses, always looking all sorts of cute because she’s always running into crushes, exes, old friends, & making new friends wherever she goes. Her clothes are party-ready & she’s fearless when it comes to taking fashion risks. No skirt is too short, no heels are too high, & no print is too wacky for her to play with, especially when combined with color-coordinated extras like a statement necklace or stacked bangles.

SHOP: dress ($29.94) @Joe Fresh, headband ($4.90) @Forever 21, flats ($25.99) @Charlotte Russe, trench coat ($69.99) @Daily Look & Betsey Johnson belt ($5.99) @6PM.

For a little extra taste of what’s to come on the highly anticipated fourth season of Girls, which premieres on Sunday, January 11th on HBO, check out these teaser & promo videos of what’s to come for Hannah, Marnie, Jessa, & Shoshanna.

Which character can you most relate to? Whose style do you like best? For more stylish posts, check out Pre-Fall 2015 Collection lookbooks from Christian Siriano & Tory Burch, affordable capes from Boohoo,com & Chic Nova, my newest wardrobe must-haves from Dress Barn & Target, the top 10 Style Darlings to watch in 2015, & the 365 best dressed look from 2014! Happy Styling!

The Stylish Five: Affordable Capes Just In Time For 2015!

Posted on January 6, 2015 by Alissa

If Santa didn’t fulfill all of your style picks on your holiday wishlist, you haven’t missed out on the best must-have outerwear of the season yet! Capes of all varieties have been everywhere, making that transition from fall to winter all the more stylish. However, the weather has been pretty fickle here on Long Island, which makes the necessity of a cape all the more important. The great news is that you don’t have to break the bank to add a cape to your wardrobe. Capes present a style opportunity to play with prints & textures, from color blocking to plaid to tribal to menswear inspiration.

SHOP: check pattern cape ($26.00) @Boohoo, color block batwing cape ($36.67) @Romwe, reversible cape with check panel ($47.38) @ASOS, burgundy check blanket cape ($43.70) @Miss Guided, & vintage print tassels cape ($45.00) @Chic Nova.

Have you been shopping around for a cape this season? Which cape suits your style? Which pattern is your favorite? For more stylish posts, check out my new favorite deals from LOFT & Payless, bargain scarves from Forever 21, the top 10 Style Darlings to watch for in 2015, as well as Pre-Fall 2015 Collection lookbooks from Tory Burch, Oscar de la Renta, & Marchesa. Happy Styling!

Inside A Style Blogger’s Closet: New Year, New Bargains from LOFT, Target, & More!

Posted on January 4, 2015 by Alissa

One of my resolutions for 2015 includes spending less money on my wardrobe, mostly because I just don’t have as much space as I’d like for all of my favorite shopping finds. In a last stitch (no pun intended) effort to grab some must-haves, I asked Santa for a few essentials & picked up some great buys with all of the post-holiday sales / coupon deals.

SHOP: rose garden cardigan ($49.99) @LOFT (extra 60% off sale styles – no code needed), belted chevron dress ($46.00) @Dress Barn (code 687 for 20% off in-stores), Xhilaration tights ($6.00) in burgundy @Target (5% off when you use your Target Red Card), & Chelsea flat ($19.99) in silver / gold @Payless (code 251458739 for 15% off, expires 1/4).

What bargains are you shopping for this season? Which stores are you hitting up for post-holiday deals? For more stylish posts, be sure to check out the Top 10 Style Darlings to Watch For in 2015, Oscar de la Renta’s Pre-Fall 2015 Collection, 365 best dressed looks from 2014, & bargain-priced scarves from Forever 21. Happy Styling!

Color Me Style: Daily Look’s New Year’s Eve Little Black Dress Style Challenge!

Posted on December 16, 2014 by Alissa

It’s been a very fortuitous holiday season for my blog so far & the style keeps on coming! Style Darling has been invited to participate in Daily Look‘s New Year’s Eve Style Challenge, featuring the website’s best little black dresses to sport from party-to-party before the year is up. Of course there are many ways to don classic black, a favorite to feature in Color Me Style, such as lace, leather, silk, satin, along with many different shapes & styles.

However, before we get started, I’ve had LBDs on my mind, especially when there’s so much celebrity inspiration hitting the red carpet. For example, Diane Kruger in a black lace Elie Saab cocktail dress with a black Osman blazer, a graphic Charlotte Olympia clutch, & striped lace-up Sophia Webster heels. Also, Scandal star Kerry Washington makes a bold statement in a leather little black dress with Jennifer Fisher jewelry & white pumps. Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong’o was stunning in a ruffled LBD by Fitriani, black pumps, & jewelry headband.

Also, Cameron Diaz dazzled in little black dress by Isabel Marant with a quilted Chanel purse & Givenchy ankle-strap sandals. Hollywood it-girl Hailee Steinfeld was chic in a black high-neck David Koma pencil dress with capped silver pumps. Newcomer Nicola Peltz played with her youthful style in a black cut-out dress by Michael Kors with strappy sandals.

There’s so much to look forward to when it comes to upcoming fashion trends, but the little black dress is here to stay, especially when seen with runway inspiration from the recent Spring 2015 Ready-To-Wear Collections that hit the runway during this past Fashion Week season. LBDs were seen on the runway in modern cuts, with plunging necklines, embellished details, cinched wasitlines, sweetheart necklines, & figure flattering shapes. This includes looks from Kenzo, Dolce & Gabbana, & Saint Laurent.

Also, I just had to share these stunning looks from the Spring 2015 Ready-To-Wear from designers Alexander Wang, Anthony Vaccarello, & Vera Wang.

Now that there’s LBD inspiration oozing off the screen, here are some of the best little black dresses from Daily Look, which can work for a variety of shapes & sizes, if you want to show off your legs, neckline, figure, or shoulders.

SHOP: pleated a-line midi dress ($59.99), mesh strip midi dress ($44.99), bejeweled cuffs bodycon dress ($49.99), lovely lace midi dress ($49.99), jersey knit long sleeve maxi dress ($55.99), & jessa open back midi dress ($59.99).

You can’t shop for New Year’s Eve without considering some blinged-out accessories, sparkling jewelry, & sexy shoes to complete your look, which is why I picked some of the most affordable & investment-worthy pieces to really bring out your inner glam girl.

SHOP: fringe earrings ($16.99), sequin multicolor clutch ($44.99), vixen cross strap heel ($39.99), harmony stone plated necklace ($24.99), sparkling pave link bracelet ($64.99), simple strap heel ($39.99), Jane Taylor rhinestone clutch ($64.99), & J.O.A. square pearl ring ($19.99).

Lastly, when it comes to the holidays, not only do your outfits get a chance to shine, but also your beauty look is allowed to be a little extra special, which is why I’ve shared some of my favorite celebrity looks that emphasize one facial feature or makeup style in order to show off the best version of you. This includes new mom Mila Kunis who nails a smoky eye & neutral lip for a dramatic & sexy look, prefect for any cocktail dress. Ingenue Bella Thorne plays with metallic eyeshadows to emphasize the shape of her eyes, as well as play up the glitz of the holiday with playful hues. Experiment with bright eyeliners like Jessica Biel who is making quite the beauty statement with an edgy turquoise swipe of a pencil underneath her lower lash line.

Another way to play up your eyes is to follow Beyoncé‘s lead with winged liner, recalling a dramatic Cleopatra look that works with a sheath dress or sleek jumpsuit. American sweetheart Reese Witherspoon goes for a soft look with rosy cheeks & classic makeup, which easily makes you photo-ready before the ball drops. Brit singer Rita Ora looks stunning with a bold red lip that draws on her Old Hollywood appeal for some vintage inspiration, perhaps paired with a lacy or beaded frock.

What’s your New Year’s Eve style? Where are you shopping for your holiday essentials? Which are your favorite little black dresses from Daily Look? To see my favorite New Year’s Ever Daily Look ensemble, check out their Style Sets! For more stylish posts, be sure to check out previous posts including holiday gift styles from luxury brands & affordable retailers, how to winterize your nails from Julep, & sleeping in style with Casper’s Beauty Sleep Challenge! Happy Styling!

11/21/2014 Darling of the Day: The Ultimate Olivia Palermo Gallery, Featuring Over 300 of Her Most Stylish Looks!

Posted on November 21, 2014 by Alissa

In a world where reality stars (sometimes unfortunately) rule pop culture, there’s one who’s made an everlasting mark on the fashion world. That’s reality star-socialite-style-icon-fashion-blogger, Olivia Palermo. She’s been on the fashion radar for years & there’s nothing she can’t wear. Whether it’s mixing prints, playing with texture, donning luxe furs, bringing back the belt, taking risks with pops of color, & experimenting with every type of shoe under the sun, her style & beauty is utterly flawless.

The designer darling is a favorite on the red carpet & of photogs’ when it comes to street style. Her level of sophistication is equal to haute couture gowns at the Cannes Film Festival & a casual day walking her dog in skinny jeans & ballet flats. Ever since I started gathering fashionable photo galleries on Style Darling’s Facebook page, I couldn’t help but think about Olivia’s masterful style strategy for taking over the web with one frock at a time.

Check out the gallery below, along with the inspiring slideshow, which can influence any tired wardrobe looking for a change. Rethink a metallic belt, statement necklace, chic coats, lace-up booties, peasant skirts, & a classic tote when putting together your ensemble with basics like a printed scarf, white button down, leather leggings, sparkly LBD, suede knee boots, & tortoise sunglasses. Not to mention that her effortless expression through fashion goes beyond trends since she can wear anything, including menswear, boho chic, minimalist, classic Hollywood, beachy, preppy, bombshell, city casual, utilitarian, girl next door, & ultra chic- all in the same week!

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Since there’s just so much style-wise to examine about Olivia’s constantly gorgeous looks, I’ve put together some affordable ways to upgrade your style with go-to pieces that she wears, & isn’t afraid to be seen wearing out & about more than once, making her wardrobe function for multiple occasions!

Shop: little black dress ($65.00) @Lulu’s, bib necklace ($20.00) @Charming Charlie, jacquard skirt ($40.00) @Topshop, peep toe bootie ($26.87) @GOJane, Calvin Klein belt ($20.99) @Bluefly, slim leg pant ($26.47) @New York & Company, rose print scarf ($17.94) @Express, cowlneck sweater ($27.80) @Forever 21, faux fur vest ($39.95) @H&M, tote bag ($27.00) @Old Navy, button down shirt ($30.32) @ASOS, zipper jacket ($41.30) @Dress Barn, & leopard flats ($19.99) @JC Penney.

For more on Olivia Palermo, check out her official blog, as well as Facebook, Twitter @TheRealOliviaP, Pinterest, & Instagram @oliviapalermo to see more of her sensational style! Also, for all the latest from Style Darling, take a look at recent posts, including pastels for winter featuring designs from Rebecca Taylor & Chanel, as well as red carpet inspiration from Kerry Washington & Elle Fanning, all-in-one cosmetic kids for the holidays from Sepha & Victoria’s Secret, cold weather accessories from Express & Forever 21, & Anna Kendrick’s beachy cover shoot for Marie Claire‘s December issue! Happy Styling!

Fabulous In 4 Ways: Pretty Pastel Looks For Your Winter Wardrobe!

Posted on November 20, 2014 by Alissa

Pastels don’t only belong to spring time. They’re the perfect color palette for winter, paired with metallics when you’re looking to avoid an uber-holiday-inspired outfit. Also, pastels this time of year isn’t such a crazy fashion risk when you think about cuddly sweaters against the outdoor snowy landscape.

Some of our favorite celebrities have turned to pastels when hitting the red carpet or making a street style splash. Fashion it-girl Olivia Palermo mixed a white Dior jacket with a ruffled pastel skirt & blinged out belt. Young actress Elle Fanning played with pastel hues with a houndstooth dress, blue jacket, & floral heels by Miu Miu. Scandal actress Kerry Washington was a knockout in a lace & brocade Oscar de le Renta gown & matching pink minaudiere.

Camilla Belle stole the spotlight in a pale green Gucci crop top & matching skirt with gold metallic sandals. Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o made a splash at Fashion Week in a pale purple Calvin Klein sweater dress with a gray clutch & matching strappy sandals. The always glamorous Victoria Beckham showed off a relaxed separates look in a white t-shirt & blue wide leg trousers by Malene Birger.

If that isn’t proof enough that pastels belong to the colder months, plenty of designers displayed Fall Collections featuring pale pink, periwinkle, lilac, mint, winter white, & yellow. This includes pastels featured on the runway by Reed Krakoff, Rebecca Taylor, Ralph Lauren, Chanel, Ermanno Scervino, & Gucci.

I put together some outfits, inspired by some of the prettiest pastel colors in stores this season. Of course, there are other hues to make any Style Darling swoon, but the working pale blue, winter white, blush pink, & mint green into your winter wardrobe will make everyday staples like rhinestones & sparkles, as well as cold weather accessories really pop.

Shop the affordable & casual separates look: LC Lauren Conrad sweater ($29.99) in snow blue @Kohl’s, pants ($34.00) in soft sky @Neiman Marcus, flats ($14.99) in silver @Payless, & studs ($3.90) in silver @Forever 21.

Surprise at a cocktail party in winter white with: dress ($24.00) in ivory @Dress Barn, flats ($39.98) in bone @ALDO, pearl necklace ($13.00) @Charming Charlie, & nail polish ($11.20) in Casper @Julep.

Monochromatic blush pieces create a professional, yet feminine look: top ($32.94) in pink @Old Navy, pencil skirt ($19.80) in blush @Forever 21, bootie ($19.94) in blush @DSW, & necklace ($42.00) in peach @BaubleBar.

Mint makes everything better- even a chic daytime look: tunic sweater ($49.90) in green @Express, jeans ($29.99) in white @JC Penney, ankle strap heels ($28.50) in mint @Charlotte Russe, & necklace ($16.50) in mint @Icing.

Lastly, to break up the monotony of this chillier season, add a splash of pastel to your wardrobe with a winter coat. While black & grays have their place in a classic must-have closet, mix it up with the paler shades in rich textures like wool & leather.

Button up for a sweet day of sweet colors, matched with metallic scarves & jewel details when wearing: swing coat ($36.00) in sea salt @Old Navy, flip collar coat ($119.00) in mint @TJ Maxx, wool coat ($69.99) in pink heather @Target, & leather coat ($54.00) in yellow @ChicNova.

What’s your favorite pastel color for winter? Do you wear more brights or saturated colors? Which outfit is your favorite? For more stylish posts, check out all-in-one cosmetic kits for the holidays, affordable cold weather accessories from Francesca’s & H&M, Anna Kendrick’s Marie Claire cover shoot for the December 2014 issue, & Gwyneth Paltrow’s new ad campaign for Max Factor! Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: 5 Must-Haves For A Stylish Holiday Season!

Posted on November 6, 2014 by Alissa

Sure, it’s still the beginning of November, but the holidays are upon us & it’s time to start thinking about how to translate the season’s must-haves into your budget-friendly wardrobe. There are plenty of luxe details to upgrade your basics with, including lace, embossed metallic, texture, & chains. Investing in smart, stylish accessories is an easy fix to any cold weather wardrobe rut, & what better way to do that than through the following picks, especially textured tights with an LBD & ankle booties, statement earrings to dress up a button down & skinny jeans, a minaudiere to transform a cardigan & pencil skirt from day-to-night, & a braided belt to make an embellished top with ballet flats pop for luncheon with the girls.

Shop the above fashionable finds, click here: Tights @Payless ($5.99), Scarf @LOFT ($34.50), Clutch @Target ($24.99), Belt @Francesca’s ($6.98), & Earrings @Bauble Bar ($28.00).

For more holiday style inspiration, check out some of my favorite spots for accessories shopping, including Icing, Express, Charming Charlie, GOjane, Windsor, JC Penney, Lulu’s, ASOS, & Century 21! Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: How To Style The New Warby Parker Fall Collection!

Posted on September 3, 2014 by Alissa

New York Fashion Week (#NYFW) is upon us (certainly my favorite time of year), but what’s also exciting is to keep an eye out for the newest collections at our favorite & affordable retailers that don’t preview their designs on a traditional runway. I know when it comes to accessories, I generally lean toward scarves & jewelry, but one important & oh-so fashionable accessory for both men & women is a chic frame of eyeglasses- especially styles from Warby Parker‘s new fall line of eyewear. Hey, guess what? It debuts today! Sporting frames just because you have to is a thing of the past! However, a brand like Warby Parker is a long-awaited trendy gift for those of us with eyes needing assistance. I’ve been wearing glasses for over 20 years & was psyched when I was approached by the company to showcase the new styles right here on Style Darling!

In getting to know the brand a little better, I learned so much & was especially impressed with the company’s target unisex audience: “those who own their style, exercise their wit, & add life to the party. Personality is what makes a good pair of glasses great.” Not to mention that investing in one of these 9 new styles (in titanium & acetate), you’ll be investing ($95.00 for a single vision pair) in a good cause since Warby Parker donates a pair of glasses to someone in need with the help of their partnered non-profit organizations. Click here for more info on this very worthy cause!

When I got a good look at the promotional shots & different styles, my blog-ready brain was eager to pair up some of my favorite designs with outfits for various occasions. This includes a relaxed day look for when you’re running errands & an evening outfit, á la Zooey Deschanel‘s lovable character, Jess, on New Girl. Also, I must share my vision for wearing chic frames to the office, as well as when you’re headed out of town for a weekend getaway of luxury & style!

My first outfit can be easily recreated with basic wardrobe staples so that the Hardy frames in striped pacific can be the star player. Keeping a budget in mind, I choose a short-sleeve bike graphic tee ($14.99) in blue from JC Penney & Old Navy‘s flirt skinny jean ($22.00) in eyre. To top off the look, I love the luxe feel of the zippered faux leather moto jacket ($24.80) in camel from Forever 21. Additional accessories to finish off the outfit include the American Eagle ‘Boulevard’ brogue flat ($16.99) in cognac from Payless, Freemont zipper tote ($29.98) in black from Francesca’s, & the Jennifer Lopez textured concentric hoop drop earrings ($13.50) from Kohl’s.

Then switch things up in the evening with a blend of timeless pieces that can be mixed & matched with other separates, especially when paired with the 80s-inspired Coley frames in crystal. This includes the ‘Gorgeous Gems’ dress ($21.99) from Modcloth (now 70% off), cotton slub moto jacket ($39.00) from Dress Barn, & buckled faux suede booties ($29.80) in light grey from Forever 21. For some extra flair, since the Coley frames offer so much versatility, I styled the look with the Mossimo Supply Co. stud belt ($14.99) in grey from Target, a super cute novelty cat wallet ($14.95) in black from H&M, & lastly, Charming Charlie‘s fair & square earrings ($6.00) & big bash stretch bracelet ($10.00) in silver.

For a professional & polished look when headed to work, I immediately thought of the Oliver frames in striped olive. The hue is spot-on for fall, & perfect for coordinating with neutrals like black, navy, chocolate, & charcoal. I was excited to style these frames with Dress Barn‘s solid cowl neck tank ($19.50) in olive, Jaclyn Smith’s tuxedo style knit jacket ($13.99) in black onyx from KMart, LOFT‘s ponte trouser pencil skirt ($69.50) in black, & DSW‘s Franco Sarto ‘Mumba’ pump ($29.94) in black.

Accessorizing when it comes to work looks can be tricky, especially when you want to impress your boss & colleagues, which is why I simply added the braided chain bracelet ($9.97) from New York & Company & the diamond texture full tights ($16.03) from Express. Both mixed metals & textured tights are staples for any fall wardrobe & allow for a sophisticated layered & interesting overall look.

Finally, my absolute favorite new design in the Wary Parker collection is the Annette frames in petal tortoise, which immediately makes me think of spectacle-wearing icons of old Hollywood. These are perfect for the weekend look since they capture the playful side of any Style Darling. I started building the outfit with the patterned cotton shirt ($29.95) from H&M, Old Navy‘s sweetheart gray super-skinny jeans ($34.94) in mudcave, & the Rocket Dog ‘Sayla’ vintage worn boots ($49.95) in mushroom from Zappos. For such a minimal outfit, I wanted to dress it up with some elegant & effortless accessories, which is what a weekend look is all about. For example, the gauzy crinkled infinity scarf ($9.99) from Charlotte Russe works well with the colors in the shirt. Also, I haven’t shared anything with pearls & here’s my chance with the pearl hinge bangle bracelet ($34.00) from BaubleBar & Ann Taylor‘s modern pearlized triangle studs ($29.50) in gold.

And since we’re still on the topic of glasses, I wanted to share some more notable designs in the collection, for their shape, colors, & androgynous appeal:

The above styles include (clockwise, starting at upper left) Baxter Ti in sugar maple, Chandler Ti in English oak, Durand in whiskey tortoise, Greenleaf in woodgrain tortoise, Annette in striped sassafras, & Eli in crystal.

And if looking like a real life Clark Kent or the (insert your hometown here)-equivalent of Tina Fey isn’t enough, here are a few other incredibly attractive famous people to help inspire your frames fetish for fall! Whether you’re trying to recreate a vintage look, sport some menswear inspiration, or play with different trends, eyeglasses are a must-have, as seen on actress Anne Hathaway, musician / singer Alicia Keys, No Doubt frontwoman & fashion icon Gwen Stefani, R&B crooner Ne-Yo, mega hottie Ryan Gosling, & talented boy-next-door Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

Which frames are your favorites? How would you wear some of these new designs? What trends are you most looking forward to during this season’s fashion week? Who are your favorite spec-donning celebs? For more fashionable posts, be sure to check out Emma Stone’s Venice Film Festival looks, buzzworthy music videos from Iggy Azalea & Nicki Minaj, shoe inspiration from Tom Ford, & budget-friendly skirts as seen on Chrissy Teigen & Lily Collins. Happy Styling!

P.S.: Thanks to Warby Parker for the exciting opportunity to form a marriage of stylish eyewear with Style Darling! 🙂

08/09/2014 Darling Of The Day: ‘If I Stay’ Star Chloe Grace Moretz!

Posted on August 9, 2014 by Alissa

Summer is certainly in full swing, but we can look to the red carpet to see what’s coming for fall on our favorite celebrities. This includes the young & sophisticated Chloe Grace Moretz, star of the highly anticipated YA adaptation If I Stay. At a recent book signing, the actress wore tailored trousers with a multicolor shirt & metallic pumps. I was so inspired by this look, especially since I’ll be headed back to work next month & will need to start transitioning from sandals to stilettos.

Of course when you put a look like this together, you can reinterpret the separates in many different ways. The essential ingredients are easy: a button down shirt, tailored trousers, & pointy toe pumps. This outfit would also be uber-chic if worn monochromatic in white or red, as well as using menswear inspiration.

To achieve this look, I found some affordable pieces that can certainly be mixed & matched for a variety of looks for day, night, & anything in between. The floral tile softened shirt ($22.00) from LOFT is currently 60% off. While it doesn’t share the same glitz as Chloe’s sequined shirt, you an easily bling it up with some oversized jewels or pearls. The 7th Avenue City double stretch slim ankle pant ($54.95) from New York & Company are BOGO 50% off, & can be very work appropriate, as well as fun for a night out with an embellished top & strappy sandals. As for the shoes, I found the Heart Soul Gizelle pump ($24.94) in silver from DSW, which add that extra special posh touch.

What are your favorite menswear inspired pieces? How would you wear a look like this? Where are you shopping for your fall must-haves? Happy Styling!

The Stylish Five: Loving A Little Leopard, Inspired by Heidi Klum, Miranda Kerr, & More!

Posted on July 16, 2014 by Alissa

When it comes to animal prints, my go-to is zebra, which goes back to my natural love all black & white patterns. However, as we’re in the thick of summer, stores are filling up with fall fashions, including luxe leopard pieces to mix up with neutral separates & pops of color in your accessories.

Trendsetter Olivia Palermo styled her separates by Tibi with a pop of leopard in her skinny belt, which offset the geometric look of her ankle strap sandals. Model Miranda Kerr was flawless this spring when hitting the street for a stylish day out with a bold leopard A.L.C. duffel bag to add a trendy splash of personality to her button down shirt, denim skirt, & thigh high boots. Project Runway host Heidi Klum shows off her wild side (& her legs!) in a high slit skirt & embellished too.

For affordable leopard love in your wardrobe, I found these functional & fashionable pieces that are sure to make a splash when corrdinated a variety of ways. First, the leopard tote ($2.50) from Forever 21 is great for all of your on-the-go needs, especially when wanting to use a durable recyclable bag when hitting the market. Also, you can dress up or dress down the tiered leopard tank ($34.00) from Dress Barn (which I own & love!) with dark denim skinnies & a blazer for a girls’ night out, or cardigan & pencil skirt for the office. For a truly wild look, pair these loose fit pants ($17.95) from H&M with a black tank & gold flats for day, or mix up your look with a crop top & pointy heels for evening.

I love shopping for printed belts, which can work well with a wrap dress, shirtdress, over a cardigan, or when you wanna cinch in a tunic top to show off your waist, like the leopard skinny belt ($24.90) from Express. One of my most recent purchases come from Charlotte Russe, & that is the patent thong sandal ($7.50), which was such a great buy too since there’s currently a BOGO $5 sale of select shoes. So, I also indulged in a white pair to wear with sporty jersey dresses & when heading out to the beach this summer.

For one last look at some leopard inspirations, I put together some of my favorite images, high end & affordable items, & celebrity moments that include leopard. This includes a September 2010 Vogue UK shoot fetauring supermodel Kate Moss in an embellished leopard jacket. Scarlett Johansson added a pop of leopard in her Christian Louboutin pointy toe pumps with a Vivienne Westwood dress. Also, to celebrate leopard on your nails, there’s the Sally Hansen strips ($9.99) in leopard, available @Ulta. Also, you can keep warm on those cool summer knits with this Apt. 9 leopard scarf ($11.99) from Kohl’s. For some designer inspiration, the paneled leopard dress ($1,150.00) by Escada is sold @Neiman Marcus. Lastly, the leopard heart drop earrings ($16.00) from River Island are playful & flirty to dress down a classic LBD.

How do you like to wear leopard? What’s your favorite leopard accessory? Which leopard pieces are your favorites? Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: Affordable & Fashionable Floppy Hats (Dedicated to Christine)!

Posted on July 14, 2014 by Alissa

The sun is shining & the sandals are out, which means that considering sun protection is a must! With that, I’ve taken some inspiration from my writer bestie, Christine, in exploring the world of floppy hats. Of course, with a budget in mind, I wanted to turn to some of my favorite & most stylish celebrities to see the variety of ways to wear floppy hats.

Oscar winning actress & designer darling Lupita Nyong’o mixed a conservation black hat with her printed Alexander McQueen dress at the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic. For a casual day out & about, Michelle Williams topped off her chambray & striped shorts look with a country-inspired straw hat, which soften her camel leather sandals & shoulder bag. Lastly, Jamie Chung shows off her weekend style in a pale floral jumpsuit & tortoiseshell sunnies with a straw Panama hat.

As you can see, there are many different ways to wear a floppy hat, but you don’t have to spend a lot of cash to get the most out of your summer wardrobe, especially if you’re looking to mix things up. The David & Young straw floppy hat ($22.80) in pink stripe from Kohl’s is also available in yellow, blue, & black to match up with any beachy look. For a truly nautical feel, head to Forever 21 for the tasseled straw hat ($14.80) to wear with a searsucker dress & gold sandals. For the perfectly neutral topper, the floppy hat ($22.94) in brown sugar from Old Navy to protect your face and shoulders from the harsh rays of the sun. My forth selection is the Kate Landry floppy hat ($12.00) in black from Dillard’s, which is also sold in a flirty red & both will make any cotton dress pop.

Checking out these floppy hats also made me think of how classic & current straw & basket weave details are for the season. The following items are also versatile to celebrate summer style:

The Dexflex Margaret wedge espadrille ($12.00) in coral from Payless is also available to wear with any dress, separates outfit, or shorts romper in black, white, turquoise, & nude. Also, to mix up your shirtdress look, switch it up with this Lauren Ralph Lauren stretch belt ($29.40) from Dillard’s, which has recently been reduced from its original $42.00 price. My last pick is the Kelly & Katie striped straw clutch ($19.94) from DSW to help transition your day look to evening.

Where do you like to shop for summer accessories? Do you like to wear floppy hats? What do you think of straw accessories? Happy Styling!

The $100 Challenge: Summer Vacation Must-Haves For The Budget Shopper!

Posted on July 7, 2014 by Alissa

Let’s get right to it! I’m going away this week to The Hamptons for yet another exciting & stylish two weeks, while attending a school-related Writer’s Conference. This is one of my favorite & most fashionable times of year, where I can prepare my wardrobe & budget to reinvent new looks for the hip south shore niche. Speaking of a budget, I’ve been very price tag conscious & in doing that, I recommend the following for a memorable vacation. Also, I love the diversity of these pieces & how they can be worn in so many different ways!

The abstract shirtdress ($46.00) from Dress Barn is perfect for playing up your preppy side, while still celebrating the bright & neon sides of summer. Pair this dress with metallic sandals & a messenger bag for day, or glam it up in the evening with peep toe pumps & stacked bangles.

To keep your summer style fresh & timeless at the same time, classic patterns are the best way to go. With that, the sunset disc flat flip flop ($9.99) in leopard from Payless is a flirty way to amp up your separates, mixing prints like animal inspiration with polka dots or seersucker. Also, leopard looks great with bright hues like a pair of red lace shorts, an orange sheath dress, or black ruffled romper.

To build up wardrobe that you can transform from season to season, try something playful like an unexpected topper like this sleeveless blouse ($9.95) from H&M. At first glance, the print looks like flower petals, but upon closer examination, the soft blue is actually eyelashes. As seen on the model above, try this top with faux leather skinnies, but if you’re looking for something more low maintenance, add a contrasting color like yellow bermuda shorts & espadrilles for a lunch date or with a white pencil skirt & cardigan for a more professional look.

Accessories are an important part of building any look, especially when it comes to jewelry. I was once a silver-only gal, but as I’ve grown up, I see the value in expanding with different metals. Here the drop earrings ($8.50) from Icing recall a deco feel that can work as a statement piece with an LBD & strappy sandals, a maxi dress & modern cuff bracelet, & a knotted button down shirt & denim shorts. Not to mention that now is a great time to invest in timeless jewelry since the store’s entire website is BOGO 50% off!

Naturally, a tote bag is any Style Darling’s must-have when going out & about for the summer. This Yoki perforated tote ($19.99) from TJMaxx is right on trend with laser cut details on luxe materials. It’s the perfect size to fill with your cell phone, a pair of sunglasses, & whatever best seller you’re taking with you to the beach. To dress up the bag even more, braid or tie a bold scarf onto the handle to add a pop of color.

If you’re shopping on a budget, like me, don’t fret over spending too much. These five fabulous finds total for under $100, to be specific: $94.43 before tax! What summer essentials are on your wish list or crowding your closet? Happy Styling!

Color Me Style: Breaking The Brown & Black Mixing Myth (Dedicated to Christine)!

Posted on November 28, 2013 by Alissa

In an effort for some variety, I turned to my dear friend Christine for some blog inspiration. Of course, there’s plenty of great deals out there this weekend with all of the Black Friday sales, but I was intrigued by her question about mixing black & brown, as in boots & dress, or belt & bag. 2013 is a year to break the rules with accessories coordination & knowing which hues work best for your look, despite the myths that these colors don’t work together!

The first look I’m featuring shows a casual chic way to reinterpret a little black dress, including brown accessories: Faux leather waistband dress ($14.00) in black @Walmart, Brash Zane riding boot ($29.99) in cognac @Payless, Glitter disc earrings ($12.00) in brown @Dress Barn, & leather belt ($12.95) in brown @H&M.

To dress up a flattering brown sweater dress, I’ve picked some luxe black accessories to make this look perfect & effortless for the holidays. Here’s what we’re working with: Mossimo long sleeved sweater dress ($29.99) in brown heather @Target, sleek curb chain necklace ($12.80) in black / gold @Forever 21, & black bead & shell stretch bracelet ($7.50) in black / gold @JC Penney, & NYLA Elanino flat ($19.94) in black @DSW.

Other style myths worth breaking are the navy & black combination, as well as wearing gold & silver jewelry. There are so many ways around a clashing look, and often mixing metals & textures can be even more fabulous! For more shopping posts, check out fashionable flats on sale for Black Friday, stylish sweater steals from The Limited & Old Navy, & ladylike stud earrings from Lauren Conrad’s Kohl’s collection! Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: Stuff Those Stockings Early With Stylish Studs & More!

Posted on November 9, 2013 by Alissa

I know it’s only November 9th & all, which is realistically too early to start making holiday wish lists, but at my current (& second) retail job, the holiday music has started & the decorations have been displayed. While scanning my Facebook newsfeed for blog inspiration, I saw some affordable jewelry picks from LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl’s, which made me feel like it was time to write a shopping post, after all this celebrity stuff I’ve been sharing lately.

If you follow Style Darling‘s Instagram, then you know that I’m a big fan of stud earrings, especially with my five fabulous ear piercings in each ear. Not a day goes by where I don’t fill up my ear with my favorite studs, which always coordinate with my outfit & other jewelry pieces. However, I’m getting more & more keen on the idea of mixing up stud earrings with each other to create a visually-interesting look to my ear bling. Part of the former reality star & current fashion mogul’s collection includes these super adorable earrings, which will certainly put a smile on any Style Darling’s face. I love the richness of the gold-tone metal, as well as the very feminine rose gold hues that make Conrad’s line of accessories perfect for my style (at least).

I’m crazy about the clover drop earrings ($7.00), crystal stud earrings ($7.00), X stud earrings ($8.40), & high heel shoe stud earrings ($8.40), which are all currently on sale. Also, the consummate believer in heart jewelry, I especially love the heart link bracelet ($14.00) & cystal heart pendant ($11.20), both which would find regular rotation in my own wardrobe- hint hint!!

Anyway, what jewelry trends are you most attracted to? Where do you plan on doing your holiday shopping? What’s your go-to gift for stylish gal pals? Suggested sites for online accessories shopping including Forever 21, Gap, Charming Charlie, JC Penney, & Bauble Bar. Also, for more suggestions on affordable stocking stuffer jewelry ideas, check out previous posts on budget-shopping, including fall-ready striped tops inspired by Kate Middleton, my favorite new Dress Barn purchases, & a gallery of Catherine Malandrino’s DesigNation collection for Kohl’s. Happy Styling!

Style Darling Daily

…One stylish day at a time, for a budget-conscious shopper, inspired by the red carpet!

Tag Archives: Accessories Access

Accessories Access: Summer’s Best Statement Jewelry For $10 & Under!

Runway Rundown: The Eddie Borgo Accessories Collection for Target Lookbook!

Inside A #StyleBlogger’s Closet: My New, Affordable Summer Favorites!

Color Me Style: White-Hot White Style For Spring, Inspired by Victoria Beckham, Lily James, Gwen Stefani, & More!

Luxury Look-Alikes for Less: Bucket Bags for Spring, Michael Kors vs. Target, & More!

Fabulous in 4 Ways: Floral Leggings for Day, Work, Date, & Weekend (Dedicated to Kristen)!

Basics for a Bargain: The Fringe Trend, Inspired by Scarlett Johansson, Heidi Klum, Jamie Chung & More (Dedicated to Marlene)!

1/31/2015 Darling of the Day: Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s London Street Style for Less!

Accessories Access: Front to Back Earrings & Ear Cuffs, Inspired by Emma Stone, Lupita Nyong’o, & More!

Style Tip: How To Dress Your Best For Your Body Type (Dedicated to Kerri)!

Fabulous In 4 Ways: A Bold Statement Necklace For Under $12!

Watch This Style: Get Inspired By HBO’s ‘Girls’ & Preview The Exciting 4th Season!

The Stylish Five: Affordable Capes Just In Time For 2015!

Inside A Style Blogger’s Closet: New Year, New Bargains from LOFT, Target, & More!

Color Me Style: Daily Look’s New Year’s Eve Little Black Dress Style Challenge!

11/21/2014 Darling of the Day: The Ultimate Olivia Palermo Gallery, Featuring Over 300 of Her Most Stylish Looks!

Fabulous In 4 Ways: Pretty Pastel Looks For Your Winter Wardrobe!

Accessories Access: 5 Must-Haves For A Stylish Holiday Season!

Accessories Access: How To Style The New Warby Parker Fall Collection!

08/09/2014 Darling Of The Day: ‘If I Stay’ Star Chloe Grace Moretz!

The Stylish Five: Loving A Little Leopard, Inspired by Heidi Klum, Miranda Kerr, & More!

Accessories Access: Affordable & Fashionable Floppy Hats (Dedicated to Christine)!

The $100 Challenge: Summer Vacation Must-Haves For The Budget Shopper!

Color Me Style: Breaking The Brown & Black Mixing Myth (Dedicated to Christine)!

Accessories Access: Stuff Those Stockings Early With Stylish Studs & More!

…One stylish day at a time, for a budget-conscious shopper, inspired by the red carpet!

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