I love a stylish, affordable dupe that doesn’t break the bank. How about you? It’s not new for mainstream retailers to be “inspired” by high-end designers, especially the luxury brands. However, when it comes to footwear & trends, the possibilities are endless, which is the case for Steve Madden’s Kenley rhinestone sandal, left.
Of course, the heel styles & heights are different between the two shoes, but if you’re shopping for a special occasion already putting down some cash on a dressy look, why not save a little on the shoes & get some extra support with a block heel?
When I look at topper items, like cardigans & blazers, I often expect to wear it for more than just the fall/winter season, always hoping to get the most bang for my buck. Of course, there are some exceptions for summer items or really heavy knits that work for those especially chilly days. When I want to mix things up, look professional, & cover up a bit, I like a “flyaway” cardigan or blazer to complete my look & highlight a not-so-obvious color in a printed top or dress. For example:
Most of my loungewear pieces are fuss-free. I don’t want to zip, tie, cinch, or button anything on me, so the details are pretty minimal; however, when it comes to adding a feminine embellishment to a top or sweater for cooler days, I’m on board! Of course, the whole point of a sweatshirt is to be cozy & covered up, but the trend of adding ruffles & lace or panels to a sweatshirt makes my heart happy & creates opportunity for a fashionable work from home look too.
While there’s a wide size range, I’d love to see this top in rich, jewel tones, such as hunter or violet, or bright colors, like red, magenta, & aqua. I’ve ordered it in black, hoping to pair it with velvet leggings & a statement necklace for a stylish luncheon with my gal pals or a casual Friday at work. However, you can never really go wrong with Time & Tru’s selection!
I’ve had my eye on different plaid pieces this season, loving any & everything with a green base—it is my favorite color! Plaid is fun for pumpkin picking, family gatherings, & can even styled for the work environment. Case in point:
This can styled with a great many options, including a turtleneck or button down with a statement necklace, a pullover sweater or v-neck blouse & drop earrings, a graphic tee with ankle boots & a denim jacket, or a belted tunic & knee boots. the plaid will pop against emerald green, navy, royal, or even mustard separates, especially if you want to get bold with your interpretation of it.
I’ve been spotting the chain link trend all over, which took a while for me to warm up to, but now, I’m all about it! I can’t wear chain link on chain link, but I like the subtle nod to edgy street style, mixed with luxury in bright gold & silver tones & jeweled embellishments.
I’ve purchased both metals & love to wear them for work, a lunch with girl friends, or on date night, depending on the metal I’m most dominantly wearing with my outfit. The bracelets are a good, heavy weight, feeling like they won’t break if knocked into a desk, for example. The gemstones are very sparkly & add just enough shine for any look. See how they look with my recent outfits:
Forget pumpkin spice anything! Fall leaves are in fashion. In perfect coordination with my recent post about fall leaf earrings, LOFT’s leafed sweater ($69.95, available in sizes XS-XL) makes for a stylish addition to your sweater weather wardrobe.
Yes, $70 is a lot to spend on a sweater, but if you keep an eye out for the right coupon code from your LOFT email subscription, you may be able to get a great deal on this autumnal must-have. I can see it now, styled with dark denim jeans & knee boots, corduroy pants & ankle booties, or leggings & suede flats for any fun, fall-friendly jaunt.
Actress & director Olivia Wilde has been in the news for all the catty behind-the-scenes gossip about her highly-anticipated sophomore film, Don’t Worry Darling, which also stars Harry Styles, Florence Pugh, & Chris Pine.
However, during a recent appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Olivia was the epitome of effortless street style in a white tee & black wide leg pants, a look any cool gal tries & all women should!
Topped with black sunglasses, gold layered necklaces, & likely towering platforms, Olivia brought her 70s chic vibe to the streets of New York City & stage during the show to chat about all of the controversy her film has faced, offer her narrative behind casting decisions.
For busy days of lesson planning, running around with the family, getting dinner going, & maybe some downtime, sometimes there’s not enough room in the day to get all gussied up. However, sometimes all it takes is one accessory to upgrade a look. Today’s recommendation is the fabric headband. For fall, what better way is there to functionally keep your hair out of your face, frame your face, & accentuate your personality than with a headband?
With the below selections from Old Navy, I’ve got headbands on the bean fit fun fall gatherings, such as apple picking & coordinating with a plaid & denim look, taking a drive to eastern Long Island in leggings & new boots, or getting together for some coffee with the girls in a sweater dress & tights. Headbands work in all of those scenarios!
SHOP: braided fabric-covered headbands in brown corduroy + black floral woven @Old Navy (on sale: $13.00).
When I find an article of clothing I like & can see myself wearing it on the daily, I become obsessed & can’t stop thinking about all the styling possibilities & if I should just get 1 every color! Sometimes, 1 in every color is excessive, but when it’s comfortable & versatile for nearly any season, why not?
With over 26,000 reviews, a 4.2/5 rating, & a variety of over 20 colors to choose from for both necklines, I’ve added to cart! Though, I prefer more of a scoop neck, as opposed to v, myself. Also, I appreciate that this is a piece I can share with readers of any size too!
I’d style these with any kind of printed pant for heading back to the classroom, such as a window pane or plaid, with pointed ballet flats; a pencil skirt in lace or jacquard with stilettos; dark denim jeans with ankle booties & a statement necklace; or a jeweled cardigan & my favorite dress pants. As I await my order to arrive, I’m super excited to share another fabulous 1 in every color find since timeless, fashionable, & comfortable basics—at the right price—are a must-have for any time of the year, as well as for any professional or social situation. I could wear this casually for a lunch date with friends on the weekend or dress it up with some luxe satin or blinged out pieces for somewhere fancier.
We finally know who killed Bunny Folger! Don’t worry—no major spoilers areas. Just some fashion talk!
As many of you may have already seen, the epic season 2 finale of Only Murders in the Building is now available on Hulu, resolving & shocking audiences with hints as to what’s to come for the already highly anticipated third season!
During the episode, Mabel Mora, played spectacularly by Selena Gomez, attends a Broadway production in a stunning one-shoulder emerald satin gown with a high slit.
Images for a full view of the dress are not yet available online, but that doesn’t mean we can’t take inspiration from Mabel’s vintage chic style & the wondrous costume designing of Emmy nominee Dana Covarrubias.
While we all don’t have luxurious lifestyles or red carpet events to attend, keeping that special gown or evening look in the back of your closet is always a good idea—just in case. Unsure of who actually designed Mabel’s show-stopping gown, I surfed the web to offer up these high-end versions, even though Mabel’s right arm is visibly out:
For the budget-conscious Style Darling who’s loving Mabel’s jewel-tone choice, here are some more affordable options to capture the ease & drama of the look:
I’m still all about summer right now, but the new fall fashions are everywhere. As I’ve been sorting & organizing my wardrobe to prepare for the upcoming fall semester, I find myself in need of a hosiery refresh, which is just in time to catch the last days of Target’s 30% off Clothing, Accessories, & Shoes discount through the Target app, which expires on Sat 8/20. I’ve hit add-to-cart on a bunch of black patterned tights by A New Day to keep my legs protected when the temperature drops, but my style high with a variety of prints to go with any outfit.
Try florals against solid separates or when colorblocking. Perhaps, going with menswear inspiration or something geometric would contrast a polka dot or brocade look for fall. Also, there’s animal print to consider which would highlight the dichotomy of edgy & soft when playing up an unexpected neon look for fall!
Maybe between Only Murders in the Building & Selena + Chef, I have a little girl crush on Selena Gomez, but who doesn’t? Really? The 30-year-old star continues to celebrate her glamorous arrival into the next chapter of her life while in Italy with rumored beau Andrea Iervolino, making a stylish & sparkling statement in a LaPointe orange sequin tank (shop here) & coordinating Bermuda shorts (shop here).
The look is glamorous, unapologetic, mature, & timeless for a young woman living it up in Capri, a celebrity hotspot as of late, & shopping at YSL. Additionally, the actress’s look includes slide heels (shop similar here), drop earrings (shop similar here), & Vintage Frames sunglasses (shop similar here).
However, finding an affordable & comparable look inspired by these LaPointe pieces is somewhat difficult (try Poshmark or Mercari for similar separates too), but if a shoulder-to-knee sequins may be a bit much for you, think about coordinating the sparkle with satin for a luxurious & comfortable outfit. I’ve selected the pieces below for inspiration, even though an orange set is hard to find for a budget. Also, keep scrolling for suggested accessories too!
About 15 years ago, I would’ve totally donned a look like this—which is not to say that it’s out of style; it’s just not my personal aesthetic. I can still appreciate it & applaud Selena’s fashion choices when it comes to neon hues & unexpected glam! When on vacation, it’s fun to express a different side of yourself to explore a new city or open yourself up to someone knew, all through style! What do you think of Selena’s outfit? Would you wear all-over sequins in a matching set like this? Is orange a color you gravitate towards for summer? For more stylish posts, check out: Anne Hathaway’s NYC street style in gauzy cream, Rachel Brosnahan’s bold Loewe look in parrot pants, & Sadie Sink’s Miu Miu floral dress. Happy Styling!
When considering accessories for vacation, I keep it super minimal, especially since it’s a hot summer week & I’m vacationing with a toddler to toddler-friendly places. That’s not to say I can’t do it in style, but I bring 2 bags, a few neutral sandals, 1 hat, 1 pair of sunglasses, & the most neutral earrings sets. The only other jewelry I wear is my wedding ring. We’re not planning on any fancy dining, so I just keep it mom-chic. Since we’re away for only 4 days & I have 5 piercings in each ear, I typically stack up on the earrings to avoid the discomfort of a necklace or bracelet on my skin.
Some favorite sets to rely on for chic, downplayed accessories style include these picks below from A New Day @Target:
A major heatwave hit Long Island recently, which is likely to happen again this summer, but that means that it’s imperative to stay cool! Wearing heavy materials that don’t breathe will make any outdoor time more oppressive. However, relying on linen & chambray materials will offer a fashionable & refreshing take on summer style. Specifically, Time & Tru’s core tank top @Walmart ($11.98) is a must-have for a casual Friday, to pair with shorts of any length, palazzo pants, or a maxi skirt. It’s available in 8 styles, including a stripe in black, rainbow, sandstone, & sunflower, along with solids blues in medium wash & vintage bleached, as well as tie-dye indigo & sea turtle, with varying availability in sizes XS-3XL.
I bought & am satisfied with the black & rainbow stripes, plus the medium wash tops. They’re easy breezy, though on the shapeless side, but that’s more than ideal for a fitted bottom. I was hoping to pack them for our family vacation this week, but they arrived wrinkly & I did not want to have to iron or steam while away. Overall, it would be a great top to travel in to start a vacation, when heading to a farmer’s market, or gathering for a weekend brunch.
It’s amazing that this is the season of the slide sandal. The slide sandal comes in a flat, kitten heel, block heel, and even platform with an array of details including the material, such as leather or faux leather, basket weaving, or a jelly. However, if you are still in the market for comfortable, it’s stylish black knotted slides, don’t break the bank! You might find inspiration from designer label slides, but obtaining the look on a budget for your next backyard gathering, weekend chore, maxi dress & tote bag combo, or day at the beach in a romper is possible!
Below includes a high-end example of black knotted sandals:
Additionally, this type of shoe can even be found in unexpected places, such as Five Below:
However, these sandals, also available and 10, or not sold on the store’s website, but you may still be able to find them in a local Five Below location near you! If they are $5, you might as well get both colors!
Every time I search the web for blog inspiration, especially when it comes to affordable fashion jewelry buys, I am boggled by the fact that statement necklaces, circa 2010-2020, are not as prominently available as they used to be. However, my jewelry collection is certainly not lacking, but I can’t help it that I like shiny, sparkly bling!
Also, as I am finally able to have the chance to unpack—in my contemplative, soul-cleansing solitude—& organize my wardrobe collection in our spare bedroom, which I call my “cloffice,” I am finally unveiling all those packages that I ordered in the last two years since moving into my family’s first home together.
Now, nothing against headbands—which I don’t wear—but I wanted a way to display my statement necklaces in all of their sparkly glory. I ordered 3, not knowing exactly how many I needed, nor did I consider how much space the stands would take up as I began to sort through my jewelry. While I am only somewhat embarrassed to share that what is displayed below is a mere fraction of my statement necklaces, I am considering investing in a few more stands once the proper shelving is available in my cloffice.
For now, I am happy that my statement necklaces are glistening & glimmering atop a nightstand that has been “fashioned” into a partial bookcase. Additionally, all of the statement necklace is pictured above are three years old or older from stores like Francesca’s, New York & Company, Dressbarn, JC Penney, Icing, & Forever 21; otherwise, I would share some links! Furthermore, stands are sturdy, soft to the touch, & easy to assemble in 3 separate pieces that can be arranged to your preference. If you are in the market to display your headbands or statement necklaces, I definitely recommend this item! What’s better is that it’s on clearance now too! Sharing this image & my affinity for statement jewelry is in no way meant to brag, as I am happiest in the fact that I can share all of accessories collection with my daughter when she’s older!
Happy belated 2020 Style Darlings! I’m happy to make a return (albeit a brief one) to my blog posts, especially as I look forward to a stylish & confident new year. The semester is about to start & there is always a lot to do at home, which is why my regular posts are not as regular as I’d like. I encourage all of my readers to follow me on Instagram @styledarlingdaily to keep up with what I’m wearing, what I’m shopping for, what I’m loving, & who’s wearing what…which brings me to today’s post about who is wearing suits & why that’s so special.
I’m not much of suit sporter myself. I’ve never been a fan of what has always felt like a restrictive topper like a blazer, which is why I’m pro-cardigan on the daily, but I’m pretty inspired by the trend of playful & colorful suiting that I’ve seen on some of my favorite & most stylish celebrities. Wearing a head-to-toe pattern or monochromatic palette is both classic & edgy for any number of occasions, including figuring out what to wear to work! Some recent noteworthy looks include Golden Globe-winner Awkwafina (for her role in The Farewell) in a hot pink suit by Cinq à Sept (shop the blazer & pants) with a black crop top, Aussie Cate Blanchett‘s polka dot perfection in a Haider Ackermann suit with blue Dorateymur boots, Priyanka Chopra Jonas in a pretty pink silk suit with contrasting raspberry, a spring-ready Rose Byrne (star of Like a Boss) in a pastel suit by Christian Wijnants with white pumps, the always delightful Salma Hayek in all-over plaid by Gucci (shop the vest), & “Lose You To Love Me” singer Selena Gomez‘s cognac suit by Gauge81 paired with a cashmere blouse by Victor Glemaud & Yuul Yie boots.
Akwafina, Cate Blanchett, Priyanka Chopra, Rose Byrne, Salma Hayek, & Selena Gomez in suits.
Of course, some looks are bolder than others, but why not try something new without breaking the bank? Some of my favorite places to shop for matching separates include regular discounts & sales on new arrivals & wardrobe staples.
Jessica Alba has always been one of my favorite celebrities to watch out for on the red carpet because several elements of her personal style mirror my own. She loves feminine, classic pieces, never straying too far into an architectural or modern aesthetic, but still appearing current & trendy. While the actress / entrepreneur has been promoting her new series L.A.’s Finest (also starring the always exquisite Gabrielle Union), as well as her brand The Honest Company, Jessica has been all about platforms. I couldn’t help but notice the chunky shoe under many of her dresses during her promotional tour, a choice that I would not personally make, but something I love to look at with her red carpet fashion, which has a very 70s & 90s glam vibe right now.
Below Jessica goes peachy in a Giambattista Valli Spring 2019 dress with beige patent leather platforms & an Alaia cropped shirt with a striped skirt in Jimmy Choo platforms.
Also, at the Monte Carlo TV Festival, Jessica wore an orange Silvia Tcherassi belted dress with a Mulberry bag & satin platforms. For her Honest Beauty Meet & Greet, Jessica looks heavenly in a Self Portrait midi dress with rust suede Salvatore Ferragamo platforms.For the budget shopper looking for trend pieces without breaking the bank, check out some of these affordable & stylish platforms out in stores & online now.
I’m a sucker for dresses, cardigans, & big jewelry. There’s no question about it. There are some staple pieces that I love to have en masse, including cardigans, ankle pants, & blouses. However, one wardrobe must-have that I haven’t embraced so much is the classic t-shirt!
(gasp)
…Perhaps this is because I always relied on the cozy ease of a t-shirt for my sleepwear & not so much to mix with my day pieces. T-shirts are an easy way to play off of busy patterns, bold textures, & trendy companions, which is why I’m featuring some great deals on colorful, classic, & trendy t-shirts.
No matter what your favorite neckline is, t-shirts really are for everyone. There are so many styles to consider from crewneck to v-neck to square-neck to split-neck, which is what makes t-shirts so versatile & compatible to offset a busy look to keep in minimal with all solids. Any of these tees could be worn with jeans, tucked into a skirt, with printed pants, or under a sleeveless dress, creating a new layer of possibilities in outfit building. Consider coordinating any of these items to build your next comfy t-shirt chic look:
For my first official summer as a mommy, I’m scouring the web for a go-to tote to run out the door with (along with my own purse & the diaper bag) for all outing essentials that aren’t a part of my day-to-day life. For example, a bottle of sunscreen, a picnic blanket, a travel water bottle, spare flip flops, & maybe a magazine or book. I love how this season has so many cute & playful options that capture the spirit of the summer, while also being very spacious & useful for a busy Style Darling like myself. Here are just a few examples of what’s out there & what I have my eye on!
Victoria Beckham is always flawless. This isn’t news, but I just had to start there. The Spice Girl-turned-designer recently stepped out in what starts to look like a minimalist summer look with a white tee & black cuffed jeans, accessorized with classic pieces like a sleek black envelope clutch, pendant necklace, a chain link gold watch, & Celine sunglasses (shop here)… until you see the heels! They’re BalenciagaSquare Knife neon pumps (shop here) that make a wild style statement, but it all works seamlessly, especially on Victoria!
Of course, this look would’ve worked with pink, orange, red, or really, any color heel. She could’ve surprised us all with neon ballet flats, which would have been equally successful & exciting to post about. I’m always finding new ways to mix up my favorite wardrobe items in my collection, playing with different colors & patterns to pop, which is why I love Victoria’s inspiration so much.
However, we all don’t have the kind of budget needed to recreate this high-end, luxury look… but have no fear! Because so many of the pieces are staples, they’re not hard to find without breaking the bank! Even imitation-inspired heels are available to peruse (in several other colors too) to bring Victoria’s posh style back to life!
During the warmer months, I always have to rethink my jewelry game to avoid feeling weighed down or having to deal with anything fussy. Here’s when I typically stray away from heavy statement necklaces, but to still make a style statement in my accessories, there’s always a big earrings, which I love to wear when my hair is down. However, one of the biggest earring trends this summer is resin, which is available in not just a classic tortoiseshell, but also fun, bold colors to mix & match with summer favorites like maxi dresses, rompers, or casual separates needing a glam touch.
What makes summer one of my favorite seasons of style is the accessories! There are so many options to choose from, especially when you’re headed out for a day on the boardwalk or getting away for the weekend. Totes, flip-flops, belts, & kimonos come to mind, but also, floppy hats are such a fun way to add some flair to your look, while also protecting your skin from the sun. Check out some summer floppy hat inspiration from stylish celebrities like Vanessa Hudgens, Freida Pinto, Miranda Kerr, Suki Waterhouse, Jessica Alba, & Jennifer Lopez.
Summer accessories don’t have to be an expensive investment either, especially when so many retailers offer a great variety of fashionable options, including classic floppy hats (& some with a twist).
Skirts! Skirts! Skirts! Why wear them? Well, there are so many versatile skirt styles & inspiration galore to be had. For spring, don’t just think about mini or denim skirts, there’s plenty of style opportunity when it comes to midi and maxi length skirts, especially when looking to transition your pieces from season-to-season. Skirts can instantly dress up a t-shirt, or turn a menswear-inspired look into something evening-appropriate. Check out the many ways to wear skirts on Game of Thrones actress Emilia Clarke, singer-actress Janelle Monae, Tokien star Lily Collins, Mrs. Nick Jonas herself Priyanka Chopra, Crazy Rich Asians breakout Gemma Chan, British model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, & designer extraordinaire Victoria Beckham (in her own design!).
Skirts in cotton, linen, or denim even make a great companion for dressier pieces to wear for the day. Spring is all about color & movement when it comes to what to wear. Now is the perfect time to embrace bold statement pieces & take a style risk! Experimenting with separates is a great way to find out how to get the most out of your wardrobe. Some of the affordable options featured below make for great contrast pieces to try with printed tops, classic button downs, as well as neutral staples for your glitzier wardrobe favorites!
Style Darling Daily 