Tag Archives: Luxury Look-Alikes for Less

The Stylish Five: Extra 70% Off Clearance Sale Extended @J.Crew Factory!

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Now is the perfect time of year to stock up on new summer favorites that can be worked into your summer-to-fall transition wardrobe, but also to hang onto for next year–or that surprise winter vacation you may take to a tropical location or resort destination! Just this morning, J.Crew Factory bombed my email advertising that their extra 70% off on clearance sale has been extended, with code: FLASH70! Here are my Top 5 stylish suggestions to add to your summer wardrobe arsenal!

First, to get the most out of your maxi skirts & linen shorts before the heat dies down, a feminine cami in a neutral or bold hue coordinates well for a night on the boardwalk or afternoon party. Additionally, the cami is a staple piece for under a blazer, low-cut sweater, or cardigan when opting for luxe layers.

SHOP: scalloped cami top, limited availability in sizes 00-20 & 9 colors / patterns, priced: $9.00-$15.00 after code: FLASH70.

Next, two of my favorite summer trends are combined with the tank below. I love a playful pattern, but also a smocked effect because stretch is a friend, especially across the bustline. The peplum & shoulder-tie details add to the whimsy of this tank, especially when paired with cropped jeans & wedges or cut-off shorts & slide sandals.

SHOP: smocked tie-shoulder tank top, limited availability in sizes XS-3X & 5 colors / patterns, priced: $9.00 after code: FLASH70.

Additionally, basic isn’t always bad, especially when a tiered dress like this can be dressed up with a statement necklace, woven belt, wedges & a clutch when headed to a waterfront dinner or with some metallic flip flops & floppy hat for running errancds.

SHOP: sleeveless knit tiered mini dress, limited availability in sizes XXS-3X & 4 colors / patterns, priced: $5.10-$10.50 after code: FLASH70.

Also, footwear for summer shouldn’t be bland, especially when fun & flirty patterns can be mixed & matched. For example, a printed slide can work with a printed top, as in the stripes can play well against polka dots & the palm print would highlight colorblocking too!

SHOP: printed knot slide sandals, limited availability in sizes 5-12 & 3 patterns, priced: $16.50 after code: FLASH70.

Finally, during the hottest days of the summer, I try to keep jewelry to a minimum, unless I’m at work, which is why these colorful necklaces are fashionable options to wear with a blouse-pencil-skirt-cardigan combination or printed suit with embellished flats.

SHOP: enamel link statement necklace, limited availability in 3 colors, priced: $9.00 after code: FLASH70. Check out the matching earrings & bracelet here!

What stylish items have you yet to find at the end of this summer season? Where are you shopping for the best clearance deals? What’s your seasonal wardrobe budget? For more stylish posts, check out: stackable jewelry organizers from Walmart & Amazon, Serena Williams on the cover of Vogue‘s September issue, & a fashion flashback for Cara Delevingne’s best pants looks! Happy Styling!

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

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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!

08/03/2022 Darling of the Day: The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Star Rachel Brosnahan Wears Loewe & Wide Leg Pants!

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As summer comes to an end, one upside to look forward to (aside from the pumpkin spice latte craze) is that awards season is just around the corner. This year’s Emmy nominations for the most groundbreaking & entertaining performances on television (networks, cable, & streaming) were announced last month, inciting shock over snubs & much debate about the worthiest of nominees. However, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel star Rachel Brosnahan earns her 5th, & well-deserved Emmy nomination (garnering 1 win in 2018 for the show’s debut season), 4 of which are for her portrayal of the lovable, frustrating, hilarious, & stylish Midge Maisel as a struggling comic & divorcee in the 1950s-60s.

At a recent Emmy FYE event, Rachel was photographed nailing a combination of trends, paying homage to the 90s with wide-leg pants, a crop top, & a peace sign pose (#girlpower). More specifically, the look included a long twill jacket (shop here), orange cropped tank (shop here), & bold parrot-printed jeans (shop here) by designer Loewe. That comes to over $4,000 with the 3 pieces & you can’t really even tell what kind of shoes she’s wearing, but let’s just assume for the fun of it that the $850 matching parrot mules (shop here) by Loewe are hiding underneath the voluminous bottoms.

In true Style Darling Daily fashion, you don’t have the break the bank to revive Rachel’s look in your own way, coordinating similarly shaped & colored separates to hearken back to the 1990s & make this yours. Check out the suggestions below for any combination of colors that appeals to your personal aesthetic:

SHOP: The Drop Blake long blazer @Amazon ($69.00, available in sizes XXS-5X) in black, ivory, rose pink, coffee bean (as well as desert sage, lilac marble, & praline).

SHOP: fitted ultra-cropped rib-knit tank top @Old Navy (on sale: $5.97, available in sizes XS-4X) in white lilies, cosmic rouge, sun worship, Mediterranean Sea (as well as iced peach, cochineal, date palm, watercolor, & dried herb).

SHOP: geometric-print ultra wide-leg pant (on sale: $69.96), abstract-print wide-leg pant (on sale: $69.96), high-waisted printed palazzo pant (on sale: $62.96), & abstract-print tie-waist wide-leg pant (on sale: $69.96) @New York & Company (available in sizes XS-XXL).

What do you think of Rachel’s bold, throwback look? Do you wear patterned or palazzo pants in the summer? What retro trend is your favorite to wear? Have you been watching The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel? For more stylish posts, check out: fancy flowered flats in navy from Amazon for under $30, stackable & stylish jewelry organization, & a fashion flashback with Bullet Train actress Joey King! Happy Styling!

07/01/2022 Darling of the Day: Stranger Things Star Maya Hawke Does Denim-On-Denim in Dior for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon!

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Stranger Things breakout star Maya Hawke is brilliant, charming, disarming, & super talented–not to mention that she is an advocate for women’s rights, as seen on her recent appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where she not only discussed the highly anticipated second volume of Stranger Things‘ season four on Netflix, but she spoke about the recent overturning of Roe V. Wade by the Supreme Court.

Also, the actress recounted a 2021 essay written by her mother, Academy Award nominee, Uma Thurman, for the Washington Post, regarding her own experiences as a teen having an abortion. I’m so impressed by Maya’s wherewithal & forthcoming advocacy for this human rights violation, & speaking about her mother’s right to freedom of choice, on such a visible platform to educate & inspire young people–not just women–everywhere to take action to own their bodies.

Additionally, Maya attended the interview all smiles, even in its most sincere moments, but also in head-to-toe denim by Dior with a jacket (shop here), jeans (shop here), & closed toe gladiator flats (shop similar here), appearing relatable & comfortable with Jimmy Fallon, who stated that he held young Maya as a baby while spending time with the Thurman-Hawke family.

To recreate Maya’s look, you don’t need a Dior budget, especially when high quality denim from reliable retailers is available, along with a beige tee & options for footwear, inspired by Maya. Check out the on-sale suggestions below to recreate this casual, but chic look for any age:

SHOP: 1. Long-Sleeve Cropped Jean Jacket in dark wash @Old Navy (available in sizes XS-4XL, on sale: $25.00), 2. Bateau-Neck City Tee in hazelnut latte @New York & Company (available in size L, on sale: $11.99), 3. High-Rise Cropped Bootcut Jean in dark wash @Banana Republic Factory (available in sizes 00-20, on sale: $34.99), & for 2 shoe options: 4. Journee Marlee Flat in black @DSW (available in sizes 6-12, $49.99), & 5. Ankle Wrap Gladiator Sandal in wide width black suede @Torrid (available in size: 12, on sale: $25.67).

To view a clip of the interview, check out the video below:

Also, if you haven’t dove into season four of Stranger Things yet, here’s a trailer for the first seven episodes, which are currently available on Netflix:

However, TODAY volume two of the masterfully horrifying season four is available, including 2 longer episodes that close out the penultimate season. Check out the trailer below:

What do you think of Maya’s interview with Jimmy Fallon? Should celebrities discuss politics while promoting their work? Would you wear denim-on-denim–also known as the Canadian tuxedo? Where do you shop for denim must-haves? For more stylish posts, check out: #PRIDE picks to wear all summer long, Zendaya’s stylish shoot for Vogue Italia, everything we know about the Barbie movie starring Margot Robbie & Ryan Gosling so far, Charlize Theron’s recent Dior look, & Selena Gomez dripping in sparkles for the season two premiere of Only Murders in the Building. Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: Stylish Summer Straw Hats for $10!

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On sunny, summer days, aside from packing some sunscreen & shades, I keep reminding myself to invest in a stylish & fun floppy hat to protect my face from sun damage. I’m excited to have found the perfectly feminine, playful, & affordable floppy straw hat to add to my accessories arsenal, which is the packable straw floppy hat by Shade & Shore from Target for $10.00, available in 6 stylish colors: natural, black, green, orange, pink, and white. However, my current conundrum is: which color to choose?

I can picture wearing the neutral or green hat with a summer separates outfit in earth tones for an afternoon at the park, the black with my favorite maxi dress & studded sandals for a day date with my husband, the orange or pink with a swimsuit & flip flops for a day at the beach, or the white one for a patriotic look this coming 4th of July. And… for $10, why stop at getting just one hat?!

Floppy and/or straw hats aren’t necessarily a new trend for the season as seen on stylish celebrities, including: Meghan Markle at a sporting event, Anne Hathaway while traveling, Jessica Alba at the beach, Lupita Nyong’o for a daytime social occasion, and Jamie Chung showcasing her effortless style for a photo shoot.

Do you wear hats during the hot summer days? What style is your favorite to don? Do you prefer a band around your hats, something solid & classic, or do you prefer a hat in a pattern? Where are you shopping for your favorite summer accessories? For more stylish posts, check out: Charlize Theron’s demin & Dior inspiration, Jennifer Lopez’s Netflix documentary Halftime, cotton & linen shorts from Walmart, & bargain barrettes from Ardene! Happy Styling!

01/11/2019 Darling of the Day: Meghan Markle’s Maternity LBD!

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The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, made her first patronage to work with the charity organization, Smart Works, that works with women who are seeking to improve their job pursuits (via interview skills & wardrobe choices). The mother-to-be arrived in a black materntiy t-shirt dress by Hatch & Oscar de la Renta coat with a Victoria Beckham purse & cow print heels. The looks was in keeping with her minimalist elegance, especially as she radiated with positivity & style.

Of course, Meghan’s wardrobe budget can’t compare to most of ours, but her designer pieces are available to shop online. See below.

SHOP: Hatch maternity t-shirt dress @Shop Bop, coat @Oscar de la Renta, & Victoria Beckham purse @Net-A-Porter.

However, to achieve a look similar to Meghan’s (pregnant or not), I scoured the web for similar & affordable items that are also chic wardrobe essentials. The LBD could be styled for day or night depending on your accessories. Also, a neutral coat is a must-have for the colder months.

SHOP: Isabel maternity t-shirt dress by Ingrid & Isabel @Target, t-shirt dress @Old Navy, pea coat @Milanoo, Emmala pointy toe pumps @Nine West, & Kelly & Katie purse @DSW.

What do you think of Meghan’s demure look? How would you style a little black dress? For more celebrity-inspired posts, check out Michelle Obama’s holographic boots, pearl-inspired looks from Brie Larson & Rihanna, Jessica Alba’s gold top, & Jennifer Lopez’s Second Act premiere gown. Happy Styling!

Stocking Stuffer Sparklers!

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When in doubt, I always turn to accessories & jewelry for gift giving. It’s fun for me to shop through stacks & stacks of sparkly goodies, where I can always find a little something for myself too. However, with the days counting down closer & closer to Christmas, I’ve been curious about affordable stocking stuffers for our stylish friends. Jewelry is a perfect way to go, especially if you know someone’s style really well. When you find that special something, it’s hard to resist the spirit of gift giving! What’s especially great about my five latest picks is that the most expensive is $18, which works fro a budget-minded shopper.

A New Day cuff @Target

locket @IcingAubrey heart studs @BaubleBar earrings @dressbarnbeaded necklace set @Charming Charlie

Where are you shopping for stocking stuffers? Are you ready for the holidays? What sort of jewelry do you like to wear this time of year? For more posts on accessories, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

Last-Minute Holiday Gift Ideas from H&M!

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It’s crunch time for holiday shopping & I know I’m scrambling for last-minute gift ideas for loved ones. However, in my search, I’m coming across a bunch of great finds for readers to consider from none other than H&M, which means these picks are not only affordable, but have a little extra personality & style, whether it’s a trend piece or something cozy. Any time you’re exchanging gifts, it’s always a good idea to consider a budget, but also, create a list with descriptive words & their interests. Here are some of my favorite picks from H&M to help make this season a little brighter & definitely more stylish!

fleece throw

glass carafesatin scarfsmall shoulder bag stud earrings setsunglasses

What’s your favorite of these last-minute holiday gift picks? Where do you shop when you’re in need of a quick gift? How do you prepare for the craziness of the holiday season? For more holiday inspired posts, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

Affordable Pearly Whites for the Holidays!

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Sometimes when I can’t make up my mind of how I want to style my outfit in terms of jewelry, pearls are an easy go-to for instantly adding some much-needed glam & sophistication to an otherwise casual look. The holidays are the perfect time of year to consider pearls, & not just for jewelry must-haves.Take inspiration from the stylish likes of Angelina Jolie, Brie Larson, Lupita Nyong’o, Reese Witherspoon, Rihanna, & Zooey Deschanel, all donning pearls in earring, bracelet, or necklace form.

One of my favorite shopping spots, New York & Company, has some stylish & affordable pearly finds to wear for your next holiday party, date night, girls’ night out, or even sipping on some hot cocoa while wrapping presents.

cluster stud earrings

pearl drop earrings

pearl statement necklace

pearl beret

pearl hooded sweatshirt

pearl jogger pants

However you choose to wear your pearls, own them. Pearls are timeless & go with any outfit.I love glamming up a casual Sunday with a pair of cluster studs, for example. The pearl resurgence that we saw last holiday season on clothing isn’t going away either. How do you like to wear pearls? Do you have a favorite pearl accessory that you love to wear? For more jewelry inspired posts, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

12/17/2018 Darling of the Day: Jessica Alba’s Goes Gold!

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Whenever I’m seeking out style inspiration from celebrities (on the red carpet or their street style), my mind immediately races with ideas on how readers (& myself) can make a look their (affordable) own. Style isn’t this inaccessible thing anymore since there are so many reasonably price retailers that look to high fashion sources for their own inspiration too. Hence my latest post featuring actress / entrepreneur Jessica Alba dressing down a gold sparkly blouse with a velvet blazer by Frame (shop here), frayed wide leg jeans, black suede booties, & a gold buckle wide belt. A blazer & jeans are two staple items that we all have in our wardrobe, which is why this look is so easy to recreate without breaking the bank.

To build this look, here are two essential pieces, which can also be mixed & matched with other items throughout the holiday season & during the year. 

STARVNC sequin tank @Walmart & Thalia Sodi halter top @Macy’s (both available in sizes S – XXL)

faux suede ankle bootie @Forever 21 & Qupid Parma bootie @DSW

Which celebs do you turn to for street style & holiday inspiration? How do you get the most use out of your favorite & most sparkly holiday pieces? For more celebrity style posts, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

Red Hot Holiday Dresses for all Sizes!

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The holidays are around the corner & I can’t help, but embrace all the luxurious reds in my wardrobe, whether it’s velvet, brocade, knits, suede, or leather. However, a little red dress for this time of year is perfect for celebrating all that’s joyful & stylish. Red isn’t just stylish in a fire engine hue; there’s crimson, burgundy, apple, & so many more shades to mix & match with metallic accessories. I’m pretty obsessed with red this last week (as seen by my latest Instagram posts), which is why I’m inspired to share these flirty & seasonal red dresses.

glamorous Guest dress @Mod Cloth

velvet fit & flare dress @dressbarn

Eva Mendes Collection sequin dress @New York & Company

These dresses might look extra fancy, but they can be styled many different ways to get the most wear out of them. For example, try knotting a denim button down shirt over one or throwing on a chunky sweater & use the skirt as a dress? Red is also a great foundation for a gold statement necklace, silver accessories, or black beads too. For more holiday posts, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

Festive Fringe Earrings!

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It’s no secret that I love a bauble & sparkle, but I’ve been hesitant to get on board the fringe earrings trend. That’s only because I typically wear my hair down with big earrings, so I’m concerned that the fringe will get tangled in my hair or the extra flair will simply get lost in my tresses. However, as I scour the web for some fabulous, fashionable, & affordable holiday buys, I keep finding myself clicking on fringe earrings to consider as gifts for my most stylish friends.

Corey fringe earrings @Francesca’s

Fatou fringe earrings @Charming Charliefringe earrings @Express

fringe earrings @LOFT

SUGARFIX by BaubleBar fringe earrings @Target

Not only do they make a joyful statement for any outfit, they will instantly dress up a t-shirt & jeans, chunky knit & leggings, or a chic athleisure ensemble.

Do you like to wear fringe earrings? How do you style a look around them? Where are your favorite places to shop for jewelry? For more posts on affordable & stylish jewelry, click here, here, here, & here! Happy Styling!

My Favorite Sequin Sweater This Season!

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As I was gearing up to go back to work this fall, I’d been collecting gift cards from the summer & my birthday to prepare me for some new fall favorites & holiday must-haves. This includes the sequin sweater @dressbarn (shop plus size here). I ordered this sweater online & was actually surprised how soft it felt, how comfortably it fit, & just how pretty the sequin detail is on the cozy gray background.

While I’m all about the big statement necklace lately, I know I can rely on this sweater to do all the sparkling for me if I need something festive quickly. I have a multicolor pair of Kate Spade confetti stud earrings I’m waiting to pair with this sweater for either a glitzy weekend look with leggings & knee boots, or even to my office holiday party with a pencil skirt & embellished ballet flats. Because of the neutral gray background & variety of color in the sequins, the styling possibilities are endless!

How do you like to wear sparkle? Where are you shopping for your most festive fashions? For more holiday-inspired posts, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

Leopard Tops for All Sizes!

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If there’s one print I love for any time of the year, it’s leopard. It’s a fun option for a sweater, blouse or top to pair with jeans, leggings, pants, or a skirt, especially when matching it up with a pop of color like red, hot pink, or green. Wearing a leopard top also opens up the opportunity to try some playful bling too in a statement necklace, big earrings, or stacked bangles. Here are some affordable must-have leopard options for misses & women’s sizes for sale now!

blouse @Chico’s

sweater @New York & Company

sweater @Stein Mart

tee @Torrid

top @Charlotte Russe

When it comes to leopard, you don’t always have to wear black with it. Try something with texture, a seasonal color, or add a little sparkle. You can definitely get a lot of miles out of a leopard top because of all of its styling possibilities. 

corduroy pants @LOFTfaux leather skirt @Charlotte Russefaux suede skirt @Fashion Novaskinny jeans @Old Navyrhinestone jeans @dressbarn

How do you like to style leopard separates? What are your favorite patterns to wear? Where are you shopping most for affordable fashion this season? For more posts like this, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

I’m Obsessed with this Green Top!

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Over the last few weeks, I’ve been readjusting to the work week grind as a new mother, which has been both easy & hard, but that experience is for another post for another day. However, I’ve had to reconsider certain cuts of tops, dresses, & bottoms for my changed post-baby shape. I’m more aware of loose-fitting, forgiving silhouettes as I go about my day in the office & classroom. During my regular online perusal of style inspiration, I discovered Fashion to Figure, a plus size clothing & accessories retailer (part of the New York & Company organization).  Meet Noelle, a high-low scuba top in the most luxurious shade of green. It embodies everything I look for in a top & even has a bow on it! Not to mention that the color is everything right now. It’s a bright shade that will pop on any skin tone & embraces the season with the addition of a statement necklace or chandelier earrings. It’s perfect for pairing with leggings &  knee boots, a pencil skirt & pointy toe heels, or skinny jeans & caged booties. This top has plenty of flair & femininity & I just can’t stop thinking about it. Check out (below) some stylish bottoms to shop from Fashion to Figure to build a holiday-ready outfit featuring this top.

leggings, skirt, & jeans

For more plus size shopping, check out some favorite stores including Fashion Nova, Maurice’s, Lane Bryant, White House Black Market, Charlotte Russe, Torrid, Kohl’s, ModCloth, dressbarn, Old Navy, Forever 21, Eloquii, & H&M. Happy Styling!

Buttoned Up Bargain!

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This Thanksgiving-Black Friday weekend was a whirlwind for me! There was plenty of time spent with family, showing off our dazzling daughter, but there was lots of shopping too! Of course, gift lists were made, but I couldn’t help & treat myself here & there when a great buy was discovered.

As a part of my daily uniform (for work mostly–my at-home mom style has become more of function than fashion), I love a cute blouse-skirt combo with a cardigan, or at least to wear a cardigan over a dress. I was never one for structured jackets (although I can appreciate their visual appeal), so cardigans are my go-to & I can be quite obsessed with them. I’m always on the hunt for a patterned cardigan that I don’t have, especially one that allows me to experiment with pattern mixing too.

When I least expected to find some major style, the Laura Scott houndstooth cardigan found me @Sears. Black & white is always a great way to go when it comes to patterns, that way I could really highlight bright colors to match up; however, I was very interested & attracted to the purple-black combination.

Laura Scott houndstooth cardigan @Sears

For the price I paid, I could’ve very easily bought both colors & been done with it, but keeping my budget in mind for the holidays for my whole family, I limited myself to the purple option. The fit was just what I look for in a cardigan, so I was definitely all set. My mind is already swirling with styling ideas for this cardigan for the rest of the fall and throughout the colder months.

How do you like to style cardigans? What’s your best Black Friday fashion find? For more stylish posts about affordable fashion, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

Step Into Style With These Holiday-Ready Heels!

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The holiday season is the perfect time to bring out the sparkle, especially as your social calendar is filling up. A little shine & glow never hurt anyone, which is why showing off some glitter, glitz, or luxury in footwear is an easy way to step into the holiday spirit with any look. Right now, there are so many can’t-miss holiday sales, especially on shoes, that I had to check out what’s happening @DSW.

These flirty & playful shoe options make for a great finishing touch to a little black dress, a red velvet sheath frock with a leather jacket, a lacey-ruffle blouse & skinny jeans, or dressing up flannel & a statement necklace. Not to mention that the following top picks are not just perfect for this season, but for any upcoming special occasion, which makes them worth the investment.

ALDO Craysa pumpBetsey Johnson Izzy sandalEssex Lane Valan pumpJournee Collection Kitt pumpMix No. 6 Trissa pump

Where are you shopping for the best Cyber Monday deals? What kinds of shoes do you like to wear during the holidays? Do you like lace or velvet details in your footwear? For more shoe-inspired posts, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

Cozy Capes, Pretty Ponchos, & Big Blanket Scarves!

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The seasons have certainly changed (at least here on Long Island) & my wardrobe has been flipped to prepare me for what’s to come! Some days I can still get away with wearing my denim jacket when heading out, whereas other days, I’m in need of something a little heavier to ward off the dropping temperature. Here’s where a cape, poncho, or blanket scarf enter the stylish picture. Not only are these popular gift items for the holiday season, but they’re must-haves for any fall afternoon. I hate the bulkiness of my coat when I’m running around on the weekend, especially when the stores are packed & I start to get hot, so a cape, poncho, or blanket scarf get me through the hustle & bustle. Also, I always bring one with me when headed to the movies for date night just to make sure I’m comfortable in front of the big screen.

They serve as perfect outerwear to pair with boots, as well as with a turtleneck & skinny jeans, layering tops & leggings, & a sweater dress. Check out these affordable options & all the different color/pattern combinations to make your coziest fashion dreams a reality.

Dressbarn

DSW

Kohl’sLulusVince Camuto @Macy’s

What’s your go-to outerwear piece? Where do you like to shop for fall favorites? For more fall-inspired fashion, check out previous posts here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

The Best Floral Shoes for the Holidays!

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The holidays are just around the corner & as much as I love indulging in seasonal duds (red knits, green velvet pieces, fair isle sweaters, etc.), I’m always excited to get my hands on (or feet in, in this case) a new find that can be interpreted for the holidays & beyond. I’m talking about the Habit pump & Gigi flat @Payless by Project Runway winner Christian Siriano (a favorite designer of mine!) whose shimmer black floral footwear opens up the styling possibilities for fall, winter, & spring!

Habit pump @Payless

Gigi flat @Payless

I love these shoe options because of their versatility. They can be worn to the office & easily transition for evening for a night on the town or holiday party. They offer the perfect pop of personality for a little black dress, gold-burgundy outfit combination, & a blush blouse & skinny jeans. Also, these two styles of shoes are made in another matching heel-flat companion (for example: black with silver studs here & here), both of which are equally comfortable & chic for a variety of looks.

Holiday florals don’t have to be the traditional poinsettia or all about holly, especially when getting the most mileage out of your wardrobe investments will pay off better in the long run. For more fun shoe-related posts, click here, here, here, & here! Happy Holiday & Happy Styling!

Make A Stylish Statement–Not Just For The Holidays Either!

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Statement necklaces never go out of style. They instantly elevate any outfit & reinvent a look’s accompanying pieces.I love mixing & matching statement necklaces with solid tops or printed dresses, often playing on color combinations to brighten up an ensemble, while also framing the face &, of course, facing the day like the true Style Darling!

Also, statement necklaces aren’t limited to special occasions or the holiday season. Add that extra element of sparkle creates interest in any look, as well as gets the most worth out of your accessories.

To help you get inspired when trying a statement necklace for the first time (or if you’re scouring for new ways to wear old favorites), check out Taraji P. Henson, Scarlett Johansson, Kerry Washington, & Cate Blanchett.

Remember, statement necklaces aren’t just for the red carpet either! Now that it’s starting to get chilly out, you’re breaking out the layers to bundle up & that shouldn’t exclude jewelry. Try wearing a glitzy statement necklace over a chunky sweater with leggings & riding boots or a statement necklace over a sweater dress with patterned tights. Shop these affordable & stylish finds to build your go-to statement necklace inventory for a variety of occasions.

Charming Charlie

Dressbarn

Forever 21

For more statement necklace inspiration, check out this timeless trend in previous posts here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

08/22/2017 Darling of the Day: Reese Witherspoon’s One-Shoulder Dress & Strappy Sandals!

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Reese Witherspoon never fails to deliver on the red carpet, with her street style, & for any press event she attends. I love her feminine & edgy style, often a chic blend of preppy meets glam girl. The Oscar-winning actress & Draper James founder recently made an appearance in The Hamptons while promoting her new film, Home Again, wearing a gorgeous black & metallic one-shoulder Isabel Marant dress (shop here) (from the designer’s Fall 2017 collection) with ruffled Christian Louboutin strappy sandals (shop here). The look is picture perfect, which is why I’m featuring it for my latest Darling of the Day post. The ensemble is a definite style win, but the cost of the dress & shoes alone will run you back by the thousands.

It was hard to achieve a near-identical look-alike outfit, but I loved the inspiration behind the trendy one-shoulder & ruffled ankle strap heels. In featuring pieces inspired by Reese’s look, it’s always my pleasure to share how to recreate something similar for shoppers of any size. I love a great print & a black & white color combination is classic for every woman!

SHOP: Lucky Brand dress @Macy’s, plus floral dress @Target, LC Lauren Conrad linear drop earrings @Kohl’s, Napier linked bracelet @Kohl’s, & ruffle strappy heels @Missguided.

Which celebrity’s style do you love to watch the most? What’s your favorite dress trend right now? Where are you shopping for the most stylish accessories? For more celebrity style posts, check out Emma Stone for Marie Claire‘s September issue, Gabrielle Union’s newest collection for New York & Company, blazers on Jennifer Lopez & Olivia Palermo, & Rachel Bilson’s Old Navy denim look! Happy Styling!

Basics for a Bargain: A Ponte Double-Breasted Blazer, Inspired by Jennifer Lopez, Olivia Munn, & More!

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I have to say, I’m not much of a blazer gal. I have a few & sometimes break them out for pictures, but cardigans are usually more my style. I tend to find that the structure & ungiving material of most jackets creates an uncomfortable & heavy feel all day long. However, I’m starting to see a big trend with blazers for this fall, which has got me rethinking my blazer game. A double-breasted ponte blazer is clearly the way to go for all looks professional & street wear, as seen recently on stylish celebrities like singer Jennifer Lopez, actress Olivia Munn, model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, blogger Olivia Palermo, & America’s sweetheart herself, Jennifer Aniston.

Now you don’t have to spend the kind of money that these celebs do (on brands like Balmain) for a chic, all-purpose & neutral menswear-inspired piece. The double-breasted ponte blazer @dressbarn is not only a new fall arrival, but it is available for shoppers in misses, plus, & petites sizes, from S-3X.

The big gold button trend isn’t going anywhere either to help accentuate your fall style. I’m seeing it everywhere, on sailor trousers & skirts, to blouses & dresses too! This particular stretchy jacket is great to mix with your favorite denim bottoms, a sleek pencil skirt, or leggings to create a chic athleisure look.

What’s your blazer philosophy? Do you like ponte pieces for the fall? How would you style a double-breasted blazer? Which celebrities do you think have the best street style? Happy Styling!

Splurge or Save… on Lace Up Ballet Flats?

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This time of the summer is when retailers are rearing to go with the newest fall items for shoppers to clamor over. This includes trend items that might not stand the test of time, but there are definitely some worth seeking. For inspiration on the best of the newest arrivals for the next season, it’s easy to turn to luxury designers & brands. Those styles trickle down the price point pole & then look-alike items finally become affordable for a Style Darling on a budget.

One example is the lace-up ballet flat, a stylish option to help transition your wardrobe from summer to fall. The below styles range in prices from $685 (wowie!) to $24.99. These are examples of the next level of the ballet flat craze that’s obviously not going anywhere. What will designers think of next? A black ballet flat doesn’t have to be basic anymore, especially when styled with a little black dress or blouse & silk shorts ensemble.SHOP: 1. Gianvito Rossi flats @Neiman Marcus, 2. Sam Edelman flats @Bloomingdale’s, 3. MICHAEL Michael Kors flats @Macy’s, 4. lace-up flats @LOFT, & 5. SO flats @Kohl’s.

Which designers do you follow & invest in? What trends do you buy for less? Where are your favorite places to shop for shoes? What are you most looking forward to wearing for fall? Happy Styling!

Style Tip: No Ordinary Stripe Tops for Summer & Fall!

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Whenever I see a garment or item, the imaginative wardrobe archive in my mind starts churning out options of how to style it. I love considering how a statement necklace can be worn with both a dress and blouse, as well as how a jacket can transform other separates. It’s very rare that I invest in an item that I can only wear one way, although there are some outfits that I’ve repeated because it just feels perfect, which is usually the case, I find, with summer clothing.

I was immediately inspired by the jersey top with ruffles @H&M as soon as I saw it an email I recently received. I began to consider its styling possibilities. I love the subtle ruffle sleeve detail, which elevates it as a trend piece above other long sleeve tops. I was a little hesitant to share this one top specifically & singularly because it is only available in sizes XS – XL. I’ve been on a mission to blog about pieces that can reach readers of any size or shape, which is why I set out to find another trendy red & white striped top for plus size shoppers too. That’s how I found the Belle + Sky off the shoulder top @JCPenney, another unique & fashionable shirt that’s a step above the ordinary stripe tee & can transform your summer style.

However, when looking at clothes, I also like to consider how many seasons a piece is relevant for, which is why I’m styling both tops with affordable options for the summer (because there is still plenty of the season left to enjoy!) and fall (an exciting time to play with texture).

SHOP SUMMER: zipper skirt @H&M, sandal flats @Payless, grape pom pom tote @Forever 21, palm tree earrings @Charming Charlie, & hammered gold necklace @Charming Charlie. SHOP FALL: ankle jeans @dressbarn, suede d’Orsay flats @Nine West, utility vest @Target, triangle studs @Charming Charlie, & satchel @Charming Charlie.

Stripes should never be feared by any shopper, especially when an off the shoulder trendy top is both flattering and versatile when headed to a night on the boardwalk or with a fall business casual ensemble.

SHOP SUMMER: shorts @Old Navy, wedges @Francesca’s, heart clutch @Express, necklace @Express, & charm bracelet @Forever 21. SHOP FALL: pixie pants @Old Navy, denim jacket @Lane Bryant, satchel @dressbarn, BCBGeneration heels @DSW, LC Lauren Conrad stud earrings @Kohl’s, & @LC Lauren Conrad layered pendant necklace @Kohl’s.

What items do you carryover from season to season? Where do you like to shop for trendy tops? What’s your philosophy on rewearing pieces in new ways? Do you like preppy & classic red & white stripes? For more fashionable posts, check out Charming Charlie’s pretty $5 stud earrings, Rachel Bilson’s Old Navy denim inspiration, cute olive pieces to transition from summer to fall, & the only navy heels you’ll ever need. Happy Styling!

08/02/2017 Darling of the Day: Blake Lively Embraces Hi-Low Style with Old Navy, Stuart Weitzman, Fendi & More!

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This summer is a trendy season, where tops feature all sorts of the surprises like cold shoulders, off the shoulders, cut-outs, ruffles, pleats, & keyholes. The same goes for jeans with distressed details & that ripped effect. Trends come & go, however, a classic button down & a pair of skinny jeans will stand the test of time. Former Gossip Girl actress Blake Lively is proof of just that in her latest look while taking a stroll on Long Island with family this week. What’s especially inspiring about this outfit is that Blake combines the best of hi-low fashion in a pair of Old Navy‘s Rockstar skinny jeans with designer pieces from Stuart Weitzman, Fendi, Frame, & Jennifer Meyer.

SHOP: shawl collar button down shirt @Frame, Rockstar skinny jeans @Old Navy (available in sizes 0-18), Jennifer Meyer cross bar necklace @Ylang 23, Fendi minibackpack @Farfetch, & Stuart Weitzman pearl sandal @Nordstrom.

The jeans are easy to find in order to recreate this look for a Style Darling on a budget. However, I found pieces that recall the essence of Blake’s effortless style with embellished details & sophisticated accessories, all of which are perfect for a summer day off.

SHOP: shirt @Express, LC Lauren Conrad necklace @Kohl’s, plus shirt @Talbots, floral mini backpack @Forever 21, & pearl chunky sandals @GOjane.

What’s your summer go-to look? Which classic pieces are always in your wardrobe rotation? What designer brands do you love? Who is your favorite celebrity style icon? For more celebrity inspired posts, check out Jennifer Lawrence’s NYC street style, Selena Gomez’s Vogue cover shoot, party clutches inspired by Anne Hathaway & Jennifer Hudson, white-hot summer looks on Zendaya & Olivia Culpo, & stunning red carpet appearances by Diane Kruger & Margot Robbie! Happy Styling!