Accessories Access: A Quilted Crossbody Bag!


While I do love a tote for fun beach days & running errands, as well as a classic clutch for special occasions, my favorite kind of functional bag for the every day is a crossbody bag (obviously, see post here, here, & here). Not to mention that quilted & chain details elevate crossbody bags & that’s exactly what’s featured today!

SHOP: A New Day square woven crossbody bag in 5 colors @Target ($30.00).

Honestly, I can’t decide which green crossbody I love more–the Kelly green or the olive, although the olive is a perfect match for most fall looks! I’ve never been disappointed by a crossbody bag from A New Day, especially after much wear & tear on weekends, between jobs, & when I’m just momming around with the requirement that my hands be free.

Which crossbody bag do you like best? Where are you shopping for must-have accessories? What kind of bag do you wear most frequently? For more stylish posts, check out: inclusive sweater vests for XS-4X, chic sweater hoodies for fall, & Succession star Sarah Snook on the cover of Variety‘s latest issue! Happy Styling!

08/08/2023 Darling of the Day: Natalie Portman’s Preppy Off-Duty Look for Less!


During a recent trip to Sydney, Australia, Oscar-winning actress Natalie Portman attended the Angel City Equity Summit to support Angel FC, the National Women’s Soccer League she co-founded, as reported by People. As paparazzi focused more on the Natalie’s missing wedding ring amid rumors & scandal surrounding her 11-year marriage to choreographer Benjamin Millepied, Natalie makes a case for confident & poise in her preppy off-duty look.

The casual, yet classic button-down shirt, jeans, blazer, & loafer combo doesn’t feel dated as she keeps it fresh, inspiring Style Darlings everywhere to recreate the look on a budget. So many of these pieces are staples that can be swapped out for a variety of outfits, but I took the time to assemble the look with affordable & inclusive picks.

SHOP: A New Day long sleeve Oxford button-down shirt in white @Target ($25.00, available in sizes XS-4X) & high-waisted OG straight button-fly extra-stretch jeans in Kittykat @Old Navy (on sale: $40.00, available in sizes 00-30).

SHOP: Nine West double breasted blazer in micro check @Kohl’s (on sale: $58.50, available in sizes XS-XXL) & Liz Claiborne regular fit blazer in coral haze multi @JC Penney (on sale: $32.69, available in sizes XS-XXL).

SHOP: A New Day Hayes loafer flats in black @Target ($19.99, available in sizes 5-12) & ASOS DESIGN wide fit Lakeside slipper ballet flats in black @ASOS ($23.00, available in sizes 5W-12W).

SHOP: A New Day plastic round sunglasses in black @Target ($15.00), Sonoma Goods for Life textured teardrop drop earrings in silver @Kohl’s (on sale: $12.60), & A New Day Refined crossbody bag in black @Target ($30.00).

Even if you wanted to simply wear the button-down shirt with jeans, you could top it off with virtually any kind of blazer–any cut or color. Likewise, you could take out the loafers & add ankle boots, ballet flats, or mules. Additionally, depending on the blazer color you choose, you could even select gold or rose gold jewelry to add some sparkle & dimension.

What do you think of Natalie’s look? Are you inspired by her preppy style? How often do you pair blazers with jeans? For more stylish posts, check out: satin bow ankle strap heels for your next special occasion, Succession‘s Sarah Snook on the cover of Variety, & Halle Bailey’s new music video “Angel!” Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: A Leopard Crossbody for Your Next Weekend Getaway!


I’ve been loving carrying a lighter load with me on weekends & now that my weekday work responsibilities have lightened by using my silver croc crossbody, but I like to also alternate it with another stylish option to get the most wear out of it. Not to mention, I was seeing an animal print or more subtle neutral to wear moving ahead through summer into fall.

SHOP: Universal Thread Cayden crossbody bag in leopard @Target ($25.00, also available in black, cognac, olive, & cream).

I love the larger size of this crossbody without the bulk of a shoulder bag tote, as well as the smooth fabric & chic print. As my family is planning some upcoming haunts, I’m a little more stylish when on the go & headed for a fun time!

How would you style this bag? What other prints would you like to see in a crossbody bag? What’s your handbag game for weekend getaways? For more stylish posts, check out: a classic smocked midi dress, linen pants for every day, & new summer pajama sets for under $17! Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: Spring’s Most Versatile Crossbody Bag!


When it comes to running out & about, whether for fun or errands, a crossbody is my go-to. I’ve fallen into the habit of changing out my massive weekday tote to a smaller crossbody for weekends, especially when needing to be mobile with my little one. This newest crossbody is not only versatile for its removable strap, but also stylish for any spring occasion, including a family party, date night, or al fresco brunch with girlfriends.

SHOP: A New Day straw chain shoulder handbag in natural, green, & pink @Target (on sale: $28.00).

I love the contrast of the tortoise chain, especially in the green & pink options, but when simplifying the look, I love the thinner strap. How would you style this bag? Which color do you prefer? How would you wear this bag? For more stylish posts, check out: gold hoop earrings for under $7, Lily James’ best beauty & hair red carpet moments, & chambray peplum tops for spring! Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: A Silver Crossbody for Weekend or Date!


I’m a sucker for a chic, slim crossbody bag that will help keep me light when on the go, but also adds to my outfit. Recently, Target has been my go-to for such great accessory finds at an affordable price.

SHOP: A New Day alligator print double gusset crossbody in metallic silver @Target (on sale: $14.40).

This is a chic option for when my day includes not only a brunch or al fresco lunch plans, but heading out & about for a family occasion in a blouse & trousers, maxi dress & cardigan, or midi dress & drop earrings. Other varieties of this bag (minus the alligator embossed texture) include black, olive, green, & electric blue at varying price points.

How would you style this bag? How often do you wear a crossbody bag? Do you like the silver tone? For more stylish posts, check out: flower jewelry from SUGARFIX by BaubleBar, all the jewels from the Oscars, & the red carpet glamour from the Oscars after parties! Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: Carry Your Heart on Your Handbag!


Happy Valentine’s Day, Style Darlings! To bring a—temporary—close to all the loved-themed goods, I wanted to post a reminder that self-love, in whatever form works for you, is the best way to honor yourself so that you can love others.

Now, here’s a cute handbag:

SHOP: Carrie heart-shaped pebbled crossbody bag in red & black @Francesca’s (on sale: $36.00).

How would you style this bag? Do you prefer the red over the black or the other way around? Would you wear this? For more stylish Valentine’s posts, check out: tops & sweaters from New York & Company, sparkly jewelry sets from Macy’s, fashionable finds from LOFT & Bloom Chic, pullovers by Time & Tru, lovely pieces from J.Crew Factory & Cato Fashion, & cozy velour pajamas by Joyspun! Happy Styling & have a love-filled day!

Holiday Gift Style: Metallic Bags for All of Your Upcoming Parties!


For the day-to-day grind & weekend chores, I stick to one giant handbag. I’m very loyal to it until it falls apart; however, when heading out for a special occasion, I’m happy to downsize with something metallic, playful, & festive!

SHOP: Universal Thread crossbody bag in metallic bronze & metallic pink @Target ($25.00).

I gifted myself the pink bag with a gift card, but I’m also keeping my eye out for a holiday deal on accessories, so that I can add the chic, neutral metallic bronze to my collection too!

What do you think about this metallic crossbody bag? Which color do you like more? Do you shop Universal Thread items at Target? For more stylish posts, check out: velvet pull-on pants, leopard & argyle cardigans, & must-have shimmering bracelet sets! Happy Styling!

08/05/2022 Darling of the Day: Anne Hathaway’s Breezy & Coastal Gauze Glam in NYC!


As the temperatures rise, the need to stay cool & comfortable is much greater, but when you have places to go, finding a balance between the weather & your style isn’t always easy. However, Academy Award-winning actress Anne Hathaway effortlessly proves otherwise while out & about in New York City this past weekend. Opting for a minimalist cream, loose-fitting shirt & coordinating shorts, the WeCrashed star paired her look with a Barbiecore Valentino crossbody bag (shop here), Bulgari sunglasses (shop similar here), & Dolce & Gabbana sandals to shop & hail a cab.

To make this look your own with alternate pieces on a budget, especially if you want to play up the different muted tones of white, cream, or beige, depending on your style, the options are out there! Additionally, this outfit is so realistic & chic for all body types, which is why I’ve included the options below to wear when running errands, between appointments, or grabbing some coffee with friends:

SHOP: Let Me Adore You button front gauze blouse in ivory @Pink Lily ($48.00, available in sizes XS-3X), Calvin Klein roll-sleeve gauze button-down shirt in wheat @Saks Off 5th (on sale: $34.99, available in sizes XS-XL), & BB Dakota Oh My Gauze top in white @Amazon ($69.00, available in sizes XS-L).

SHOP: paddle short in white @J.Crew ($69.50, available in sizes XXS-3X), cotton gauze shorts in cream @Kacey’s Closet ($35.00, available in sizes S-L), & Universal Thread high-rise pull-on gauze shorts in cream @Target ($15.00, available in sizes XS-XXL).

SHOP: Patrizia by Spring Step Talitha sandal in white @DSW ($44.99), Blowfish Malibu Rose B sandal @Zappos ($33.55), & INC International Concepts Petria two-band flat in white pearl @Macy’s (on sale: $47.70).

SHOP: Juicy by Juicy Couture Crowd Pleaser crossbody bag in pink @JCPenney (on sale: $29.40) & tortoiseshell square-frame sunglasses @Old Navy (on sale: $7.97).

What do you think of Anne’s street style? Would you wear a loose button-down with matching shorts? What’s your go-to everyday look in the summer? For more stylish posts, check out: the trailer for the newest season of Selena + Chef, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel star Rachel Brosnahan in head-to-toe Loewe, earrings sets perfect for vacation from Target, & affordable & fashionable navy flats from Amazon! Happy Styling!

The $100 Challenge: #OOTD in Green from H&M!


In today’s world, it’s actually not hard to find comfortable, stylish clothing, what with the coziness of loungewear still on everyone’s mind during lockdown; however, the world is changing, & it’s time to marry the comfort with the glam, especially when it comes to budget fashion. Today’s post is all about getting an entire look for under $100, which is exactly what I was able to put together with these stylish, neutral, & versatile pieces from H&M for a total of $85.95 (before taxes & any shipping fees), including:

SHOP: 1. cotton jersey dress in green (available in sizes XS-XXL, $24.99), 2. heart-shaped earrings in gold-coloured ($9.99), 3. metal-buckle waist belt in light beige (available in sizes XS-XXL, $17.99), 4. crossbody bag in beige ($19.99), & 5. slides in beige ($12.99).

The dress is also available in black, dark taupe, & light beige, which means that the styling possibilities are endless, especially with the slides & crossbody bag also made in black. If you like a billowy silhouette, you can ditch the belt or go for something more natural in a straw or basketweave, or even add a floppy hat & go for gladiator sandals with this look.

Where are you shopping for affordable fashion this season? What kinds of summer dresses are you most drawn to? Do you coordinate your accessories by shade or texture? For more stylish posts, check out: Keira Knightley’s Paris Fashion Week LBD, the prettiest maxi dress for summer from Amazon, #PRIDE styles from New York & Company, & affordable glam day-to-night sandals! Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: A Bold Crossbody Bag for Summer!


We’re almost at the close of June & my head & heart are already in vacation mode… & so is my wardrobe. I’ve always been able to find stylish, colorful, & multipurpose crossbody bags from Target & their A New Day brand has not let me down, yet again.

I came across this basket weave woven crossbody bag ($30.00) in coral pink, lime green, black, & teal blue in a bold display in the accessories department of my local Target store. More frequently now on the weekends, I’m opting for a smaller corssbody bag when I’m on the go, as opposed to the monster tote that I carry around all the time. Something like this with a nearly 52-inch strap length & canvas accent, especially in the coral pink, gets me excited for my family’s upcoming roadtrip to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, carrying all of my essentials, like my cell phone, ID & money, lip balm, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, & sunglasses.

I’ve been using the same crossbody from last summer, which is also one by A New Day, but it’s become more of my casual, everyday bag & for my vacation, I like the feeling of something new. The bright shade will match perfectly with an array of outfits, including a maxi dress & flat sandals for dinner, a graphic tee & linen shorts while at a park, or a blouse & cropped pants for a trip to a museum.

Where are you shopping for summer’s boldest & most stylish accessories? What is your preferred bag type this season? How would you style wearing this bag? Which color do you like the best! For more stylish posts, check out my favorite midi dress from Amazon, final sale finds from New York & Company, celebrating Juneteenth with red carpet looks from Zendaya & Kerry Washington, & bargain-priced laser cut ballet flats! Happy Styling!

06/13/2022 Darling of the Day: Blake Lively’s #LWD Inspo for Summer!


When it comes to summer style, I’m always all about a breezy, comfy fit & pops of color, but a little white dress (#LWD) is always a staple to break out for a fresh day in the sun, gathering with family & friends, or a chic date night out. Case in point, actress & style icon Blake Lively attended this weekend’s Tribeca Film Festival in support of her superstar pal Taylor Swift‘s “All Too Well” short film, which apparently should not be confused with a music video. However, Blake’s classic white dress caught my eye to feature because the actress has elevated the look for evening with her always stylish eye for accessorizing, along with her charming husband, Ryan Reynolds at her side.

The featured neutrals, along with the light cotton frock offer a juxtaposition of hard & soft, as well as glitzy & effortless. Furthermore, the Christian Louboutin t-strap heels and Gucci purse are likely too costly for the average Style Darling, which is why I wanted to feature affordable & fashionable alternatives, if Blake’s look has you inspired. Here are a few white dresses, available in a variety of sizes XS-4X (while supplies last) to get you ready for your next summer night out in style, ranging in prices $24.99-$74.00:

SHOP: 1. Smocked Top Puff-Sleeve Dress @New York & Company, 2. Fit & Flare Sleeveless Cotton-Poplin Smocked-Bodice Midi Dress for Women @Old Navy, 3. Hear My Heartbeat White Sleeveless Tie-Back Tiered Maxi Dress @Lulu’s, 4. Sofia Jeans by Sofia Vergara Women’s Midi Empire Dress with Ruffle Seam @Walmart, 5. Who What Wear Women’s Elbow Sleeve One Shoulder Knit Dress @Target, & 6. BTFBM Women Summer Bohemian Floral Casual Wrap V Neck Ruffle Cap Sleeveless Belt A-Line Pleated Hem Swing Midi Sun Dress @Amazon.

Additionally, some suggested accessories to coordinate with any of these white dresses (or one that you still haven’t dug out from the back of your closet) include:

SHOP: 1. Lassy Pump by Mix No. 6 @DSW, 2. Liraven Pump by Mix No. 6 @DSW, 3. Liah Braided Slide Dress Sandals by I. N. C. @Macy’s, 4. Basketwoven Crossbody Bag @Forever 21, 5. 2-Daisy Earrings @Ardene, 6. Fiona Wrapped Flat Hoops @francesca’s, 7. LC Lauren Conrad Rose Gold Tone Flower Circle Necklace @Kohl’s, & 8. LC Lauren Conrad Hook Bangle Bracelet @Kohl’s.

Where are you shopping this season for fabulous little white dresses? Which pieces are your go-to accessories for a summer night out? Do you prefer cotton, linen, or jersey for your staple little white dress? Share in the comments! Also, for more stylish celebrity posts, check out: suits inspired by Awkwafina & Selena Gomez, Jessica Alba’s summer platforms, & Victoria Beckham’s neon stilettos! Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: Lovely Lavender Handbags!


From the day-to-day, I am committed to the same one handbag to get me through my shifts at work, out with my boyfriend, and everywhere in between. I’m usually wearing just one bag for as long as I possibly can before switching from a lighter spring-summer design to something darker & more durable for the fall-winter months. However, when I spot a cute bag, my heart does do a little flutter. That’s exactly what happened when I spotted these lavender bags from New York & Company. I immediately pictured how I could style them, with a head-to-toe all-white look, a floral summer frock with wedges, & a little black dress accessorized with a pop of pastel.

SHOP: mini satchel, large satchel, tote, & crossbody bag @New York & Company.

Would you use a lavender bag? How would you incorporate pastels with your fall wardrobe? What’s your go-to handbag style? Where do you shop for your favorite accessories? Happy Styling!

08/01/2017 Darling of the Day: Jennifer Lawrence Elevates Casual Chic in New York City!


So, it’s definitely been a minute since my last Darling of the Day post (hello 07/18/2016 with Gwyneth Paltrow!). Trends are always changing—I’m not so crazy about all this 90s-inspiration returning. Also, life is just busy & there’s so much to talk about. However, I just recently came across this image of Oscar-winning actress Jennifer Lawrence (whose new movie Mother! looks terrifying) who was out & about in New York City this summer wearing the most elegant & casual of outfits that anyone can pull off. I knew I had to share the styling details, especially since so many of these pieces probably already reside in our wardrobes. What makes this look so special is Jennifer’s uber chic Elsa Peretti knotted necklace that completely elevates the whole ensemble from casual to genius. I’m always saying that accessories have the power to transform a look & here’s the proof with one simple gold necklace.

The ingredients for Jennifer’s look are easy to put together: white tank, black skinny jeans, & a gold knotted, tassel necklace. Here are three sources to recreate this outfit for the budget-minded shopper of any size because you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your entire income for your style.

SHOP: tank (shop plus here), skinny jeans (shop plus here), knot necklace @dressbarn.

SHOP: tank (available in sizes XS-XXL), skinny jeans (available in sizes 0-20), & multistrand necklace @Old Navy.

SHOP: tank & skinny jeans @H&M, & lariat necklace @Charming Charlie.

In addition, Jennifer’s outfit gets some help from classic tortoise sunglasses, a minimalist black crossbody bag, & platform wedges so she can live her most stylish & best A-list life.

SHOP: crossbody bag @Forever 21, cateye sunglasses @Target, & Kelly & Katie wedges @DSW

Do you like Jennifer’s street style look? What’s your go-to glam necklace? Where do you shop for basics like tanks & jeans? Which celebrity’s style do you follow most? What’s your summer must-have trend item? For more celebrity style inspiration, check out previous posts including mixed patterns on Olivia Palermo & Solange Knowles, Reese Witherspoon & Lily James in gingham, sneakers with dresses on Gigi Hadid & Rihanna, & ankle strap shoe goodness on Emma Stone & Taylor Schilling! Happy Styling!

The $100 Challenge: Spring Into A Budget-Friendly Dress Look!


‘Tis the season to be pretty! There are hints of spring everywhere & I even see flowers starting to pop up out of the ground, which means that it’s time to start considering the new & bright pieces for our wardrobe. This includes cotton dresses, wedges, lightweight cardigans, & baring some skin from under the heavy layers of winter. I was clicking through the Old Navy website, which is when I found the striped fit & flare dress ($20.00) in black & white, which is also available in creme caramel.

I knew this look deserved a pop of color, which is why I added the peep toe wedges ($24.90) in green from Forever 21 & American Eagle Outfitter‘s perforated crossbody bag ($19.99) in lemon yellow. Both pieces are perfect to mix & match with other wardrobe staples like dark denim jeans & a ruffled blouse, a graphic tee & mini skirt, or wrap dress & ballet flats.

To complete the look, I headed to LOFT for the dot haircalf skinny belt ($20.99), which is on sale 30% off with no code needed after its already reduced price. I love the idea of matching stripes & polka dots for a truly feminine look, so I wanted to keep with a black accent in the outfit with Forever 21‘s teardrop rhinestone earrings ($5.80). Lastly, the 4-pack bracelet ($7.95) from H&M is a fun way of adding some personality with the layers of chains, studs, & rhinestones.

The total for this look comes to $99.53 (before taxes) & can make for a wonderfully feminine look for a variety of occasions. Try this dress with a blazer to play up the juxtaposition of its softness with some menswear-inspiration, or consider adding the belt with a floral wrap dress & slingback heels. For more posts on affordable fashion, check out previous posts like Kate Young’s new collection for Target, neon looks inspired by Chloe Grace Moretz & Kristen Stewart, spring break-ready must-haves, sexy stilettos for under $30, how to save on the pink skinny jeans trend, all-white ensembles as seen on Rooney Mara & Nicole Richie, & Lauren Conrad’s latest spring collection for Kohl’s. Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: Spring-Ready Neon Crossbody Bags!


During a recent trip to the local mall with a good friend, Jennifer, in an effort to find affordable pieces for her upcoming cruise vacation, we stopped into Aeropostale to seek out some cute accessories & clothing, perfect for any tropical island escape. However, what surprised us was the plethora of big sale items in a store that is generally geared toward tween & teen shoppers, but these must-haves were perfect for any Style Darling & making our mission successful.

Although I couldn’t find the exact crossbody bag that Jennifer purchased on the online website, I was happy to share the essential neon crossbody bag ($14.00) in kale, lemon zest, radiant coral, & think pink. The bag was recently reduced in price from its original $36.50. The latest neon trend is more than apparent in accessories, which will certainly make any spring / summer outfit all the more fashionable.

Aeropostale - neon crossbody bag $14.00

I picked this particular style since it’ll work nicely with any casual look, including a blouse with shorts & flats for a brunch, a day of checking out antique shops with some girlfriends, running errands in a button-down & skinny jeans, & lastly, with a maxi dress & gladiator flats when headed out for a picnic with that special someone. Which color is your favorite? Are you currently shopping for a crossbody bag? Do you frequently shop at Aeropostale?

For more posts on affordable fashion, check out more from the neon trend with looks inspired by Chloe Grace Moretz & Kristen Stewart, spring break must-haves from Payless & JC Penney for under $100, sexy stilettos from Forever 21, how to style a graphic tee in four fabulous ways, & Christian Siriano’s ‘Striking’ collection for HSN! Happy Styling!