Beach Bound & Weekend Totes!

Posted on June 21, 2019 by Alissa

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!

SHOP: Hello Weekend tote @Windsor, Life’s A Beach tote @New York & Company, Magid multi color stripe tote @Stein Mart, Magid pink & black tote @T.J. Maxx, & City Streets bananas tote @JCPenney.

Some summer must-have items that I have my eye on for inside my go-to tote include:

SHOP: eyeglass case @Walmart, red sunglasses @Forever 21, silver braided flip flops @Charlotte Russe, watermelon makeup pouch @Rue 21, travel water bottle @Five Below, Neutrogena sunscreen @Target, & tropical beach towel @H&M.

What are your summer must-haves? Where are you headed on weekends for some fun in the sun? Where are you shopping for affordable travel pieces? For more stylish posts, check out pretty pendant necklaces from Kohl’s & LOFT, Victoria Beckham’s neon high heels, & New York & Company’s most popular maxi dress! Happy Styling!

02/15/2016 Darling of the Day: Lupita Nyong’o Mixes Hard & Soft Like A Pro!

Posted on February 15, 2016 by Alissa

During a recent photocall for her new Broadway show Eclipsed, Oscar-winning actress & style icon Lupita Nyong’o made fashion headlines with a chic & modern combination of hard & soft in a floral button-down shirt, paired with a leather skirt & blue ballet flats. The sweet look is perfect for transitioning from day to night, going from the office to happy hour, as well as finding new ways to wear your favorite wardrobe staples while on a budget.

SHOP: American Living shirt ($38.99, was $49.50) @Macy’s, skirt ($22.90) in black @Forever 21, Tommy Hilfiger flats ($32.99) @6PM, & earrings ($5.00, was $12.50) @Icing. The total for this amazing look (before tax) is a whopping $99.88, an awesome bargain & inspiration for any shopper looking to pinch some pennies while not sacrificing her style. I’m always thinking about my readers of all shapes & sizes, which is why I also wanted to share some inspiration for a similar & fabulous plus-size look, including a Chaps shirt @Kohl’s & a faux leather Guess skirt @Lord & Taylor.

What do you think of Lupita’s winter-spring look? Would you wear floral with faux leather? Which celebs inspire you to experiment with your style? For more fabulous posts, check out Victoria Beckham’s latest street style, Olivia Palermo’s debut collection with Chelsea28 for Nordstrom, & red carpet inspiration from A-listers like Alicia Vikander & Lucy Hale. Happy Styling!

02/11/2016 Darling of the Day: Victoria Beckham’s Winter-Spring Combo!

Posted on February 11, 2016 by Alissa

Even though Long Island is in the thick of winter, it’s not too early to start looking ahead to spring fashion. The one & only Victoria Beckham, pop star turned fashion mogul, is already doing so. She’s a success on & off the red carpet, who not only sets the trends, but resets them in a much more polished & elevated way. For example, during a day out in New York City, the designer stepped out recently in her own Victoria Beckham brand, wearing a marigold ribbed turtleneck with a printed pleated skirt. Her accessories of choice are naturally minimalist, letting her outfit make the statement, with a chain link shoulder bag, oversized sunnies, & leather boots.

Darling of the Day - Victoria Beckham

SHOP: Misses outfit: turtleneck ($39.99, was $89.50) in lemon zest @J.Crew & LC Lauren Conrad skirt ($20.48, was $64.00) @Kohl’s. Plus outfit: Ralph Lauren turtleneck ($19.99, was $64.50) in orange @Ralph Lauren & skirt ($59.99, was $109.99) @Jessica London. Accessories: sunglasses ($14.99) @Target, ring ($8.75, was $12.50) @Icing, bag ($22.90) @Forever 21, & boots ($16.99, was $69.00) @6PM.

What do you think of Victoria’s recent street style look? Are you thinking about spring fashion yet? Which celebrities inspire your wardrobe? For more Darling of the Day posts, check out Sienna Miller, Anne Hathaway, Gwyneth Paltrow, Emily Ratajkowski, Chrissy Teigen, & Reese Witherspoon. Happy Styling!

The Stylish Five: Love-Themed Accessories Just In Time For Valentine’s Day!

Posted on February 9, 2016 by Alissa

It’s less than a week until Valentine’s Day & there’s plenty of love-themed ways to amp up your style when it comes to hearts, lips, graphics, & sparkle. I wear hearts all year long since they’re my favorite shape & I’m always indulging in heart-adorned accessories this time of year, especially with jewelry. They’re flirty & add some humor to any outfit during the year, but they can also help you get into the holiday spirit. With that in mind, I clicked around on some of my favorite websites for some love-themed accessories that are both affordable & functional for any style.

SHOP: 1. scarf ($13.99, was $28.00) @Kohl’s (use code BEMINE for 20% off online orders over $75), 2. watch ($15.00) @Charming Charlie (FREE SHIPPING on online orders over $50), 3. clutch ($34.00) @GOjane (FREE SHOPPING on online order over $50), 4. bangle ($7.90) in gold @Forever 21 (FREE SHIPPING on online orders over $50), & 5. stud earrings ($3.00, was $5.50) @Icing (use code SURPRISE for 10% off online orders).

When it comes to Valentine’s Day-themed style picks, you can certainly have fun with separates, as well as accessories, including these affordable finds:

SHOP: 1. sweater ($32.95) @Shoptiques, 2. tee ($10.17, was $22.11) @Romwe, 3. crop top ($44.50) @Torrid (available in sizes 0-6), & 4. shoes ($22.99, was $74.99) @ModCloth.

What are you looking to wear this romantic holiday weekend? What plans do you have to keep it stylish? Do you wear love-themed accessories or separates? For possible Valentine’s Day gift items for your loved one or besties, check out Francesca’s, Dress Barn, Nordstrom, Burlington Coat Factory, Banana Republic, & Chico’s. Happy Styling!

Basics for a Bargain: The Plaid + Statement Necklace Combo for Fall, Inspired by Katy Perry, Rachel Zoe & More!

Posted on November 12, 2015 by Alissa

My posts are a bit far & few between these days- I’m working on my grad thesis, but that hasn’t stopped me from being inspired to expand my wardrobe & accessories choices this fall. The season is certainly in full swing & I’m thinking about my cozy / glam look for Thanksgiving. I have the plaid + statement necklace combination on the brain, especially since my statement necklace obsession is at its peak. Who wouldn’t be too? There’s so much inspiration every time I check out my favorite celebrity style blogs & Pinterest, when style stars are winning the statement necklace game. This includes the always flawless Olivia Palermo, The Honest Company founder Jessica Alba, pop star Katy Perry, The Real cohost Adrienne Bailon, the fearless Rihanna, former Gossip Girl actress Leighton Meester, model Amber Rose, & stylist / designer Rachel Zoe.

I couldn’t NOT share some of my favorite street style images from Pinterest, which have inspired this latest post. There are so many different color combos & metal choices to wear when considering plaid & jewelry. The pairing instantly dresses up a work look, makes date night a little more flirty, & mixes up your weekend favorites for a more glamorous options.

It was tough narrowing down which plaid shirts & statement necklaces to select & feature, especially when I have a budget in mind for my readers & savvy shoppers who are looking for affordable fixes to any wardrobe rut. Also, I was eager to select a variety of jewels like rhinestones, beads, or pearls to coordinate with varieties of plaid shirts for any body type. Style knows no size, after all!

SHOP: 1. classic plaid flannel shirt ($22.00, was $26.94) in red tartan @Old Navy (available in sizes XS – XXL) & bib necklace ($14.90) @Forever 21, 2. vintage wash plaid shirt ($29.95) @Love Culture & statement necklace ($16.99) @Charlotte Russe, 3. Attention plaid shirt ($15.39, was $21.99) @KMart & coin fringe necklace ($6.99, was $12.90) @Wet Seal, 4. plaid shirt ($38.50, was $55.00) in blue @Avenue (available in sizes 18-32) & leaf necklace ($10.40, was $12.99) @Target, & 5. plaid button down shirt ($40.00) in black / white @Dress Barn (available in sizes 1X – 3X) & Apt. 9 pearl necklace ($13.99, was $24.00) @Kohl’s.

If you’re still stuck on how to style this already seemingly busy pairing, what with some major bling over a pattern, think about basics that are not only rich in texture, but luxe in hue. Tuck your plaid shirt into slim bottoms like a pencil skirt or your favorite dark denim skinny jeans. Since fall is all about layers, try out a faux fur vest in a neutral or stylish jacket to reinvent your ensemble.

SHOP MORE: 1. side split midi skirt ($25.50) in burgundy @Missguided, 2. high waist skinny jeans ($69.50) in indigo @LOFT (sign up for emails & get 40% off), 3. faux fur vest ($26.97, was $54.00) in black @Nordstrom Rack, & 4. crepe jacket ($24.99) in red @H&M.

Which plaid & necklace combination speaks to your style? Which celebrity’s statement jewelry game inspires you? For more stylish posts, check out budget-friendly earrings inspired by Jennifer Lawrence & Angelina Jolie, Olivia Palermo’s cover shoot for Holt Renfrew’s new site, how to get Victoria Beckham’s menswear look for less, & Louis Vuitton’s The Spirit of Travel campaign starring Michelle Williams & Alicia Vikander. Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: Budget-Friendly Earrings for the Jewelry-Obsessed ($15 & Under)!

Posted on October 29, 2015 by Alissa

My biggest style obsession this fall & really for 2015 is earrings, as seen in detail with my Instagram posts (Follow Style Darling Daily @MissAlissaL). I’ve rediscovered my love of the blingy accessory, especially since I’ve recently cut my hair, showing off my collection of studs, chandeliers, hoops, dangles, drops, front-to-backs, & jackets for the every day runway that is life. In an effort to save some cash, but still treat myself here & there, shopping for budget-friendly earrings has been my simple solution when it comes to transforming a look & when I’m in need of some retail therapy. Before I share some of my favorite & elegant picks for not just the season, but really any occasion, I loved the idea of seeking out some extra special inspiration from celebrities who are lucky enough to rock the real thing during red carpet appearances. Celebrity inspiration for killer earrings comes in many metals, colors, & shapes, including some jaw-dropping duds for movie premieres, awards shows, & a slew of other special occasions. Get inspired to upgrade your street style with Jennifer Lawrence, Cara Delevingne, Kerry Washington, Olga Kurylenko, Chrissy Teigen, Angelina Jolie, Bella Thorne, Rihanna, Taylor Swift, Jenna Dewan-Tatum, & below on Jessica Chastain, Sofia Vergara, Chanel Iman, Kate Winslet, Drew Barrymore, Sarah Jessica Parker, Julianne Moore, Demi Lovato, Sarah Hyland, & Diane Kruger.

Of course, there are tons of retailers to select discounted fashion jewelry from, including multi-metal hoops that’ll take your blouse & skinny jeans from day-to-night, oversize studs from work to happy hour, clustered stones from a date to brunch, & other genius possibilities. What’s even better is that the below deals are all under $15.00!

SHOP: 1.vintage hollow out earrings ($3.99, was $5.22) in gold @Romwe, 2. tassel earrings ($12.99) in purple @H&M, 3. filigree earrings ($10.00) in black @Dress Barn, 4. Milania dangle earrings ($13.00) in white @Charming Charlie, 5. evil eye earrings ($14.99) in silver / gold @Bollywood Chic, 6. round stud earrings ($9.00) in champagne @Francesca’s, 7. pave disc front & back earrings ($12.00) in gold @River Island, 8. clustered faux stone studs ($5.90) in antic gold @Forever 21, 9. carved cluster earrings ($5.00, was $9.50) in pastel @Icing, & 10. faceted kite earrings ($6.57, was $10.95) in black @New York & Company.

To shop more affordable earrings (where you can also watch out for great sales & coupons), shop Express, JC Penney, Kohl’s, Boohoo, LOFT, BaubleBar, The Limited, ChicNova, Lane Bryant, Target, Charlotte Russe, Belk, GOjane, & Zappos.

Where do you like to shop for fashion jewelry? What’s your earrings style? How many pairs of earrings do you wear daily? For more stylish posts, check out Olivia Palermo’s Victorian photo shoot for Holt Renfrew, how to get Victoria Beckham’s orange pants look for any size, Michelle Williams & Alicia Vikander for Louis Vuitton’s The Spirit of Travel, & fall flats for the office inspired by Emmy Rossum & Jennifer Lopez. Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Michelle Williams & Alicia Vikander Star in Louis Vuitton’s Cruise ’16 Ads & Short Film, ‘The Spirit of Travel!’

Posted on October 27, 2015 by Alissa

For some more fall fashion inspiration, I thought I’d share the latest, gorgeous ad campaign from Louis Vuitton, starring three-time Oscar nominee Michelle Williams & it-girl Alicia Vikander (The Man from U.N.C.L.E. & The Danish Girl). The actresses & spokesmodels are showing off the most elegant design’s from the brand’s Cruise ’16 collection, set in the Palm Springs desert, featuring 70s inspired clothing & luxe luggage & bags.

I’m all about fashion for function & affordability, but from time to time, it’s also important to be aware of what’s going on in the industry for the easiest inspiration, where high-end glamour can influence your street style. Watch the video below for the full experience of The Spirit of Travel.

The gorgeous ad campaign plays off the setting with rich neutrals & refreshing pops of color, perfect for any shopper of any age & style.

What do you think of the Louis Vuitton campaign & video? Do you follow brands & their ever-changing campaigns? Are you inspired by the direction of the line? For more fashionable posts, check out affordable flats for the office inspired by Emma Stone & Karlie Kloss, fall plaid must-haves like Taylor Swift & Reese Witherspoon, fall capes for every style inspired by Jamie Chung & Gwen Stefani, & Olivia Palermo’s newest jewelry collaboration with BaubleBar. Happy Styling!

The Stylish Five: Affordable Fall Florals For Every Size!

Posted on October 6, 2015 by Alissa

When it comes to fall fashion, I immediately think of luxe fabrics & jewel tones, mixed with layers to keep warm & look cool at the same time. A fashionable twist on your every day fall look includes lightened up floral pieces to blend with heavier ones, like a leather jacket, chunky knits, fringe tote, or suede booties. Here’s where you can play with color in your wardrobe, using contrasting prints to reinvent fall classics like houndstooth or buffalo plaid.

SHOP: 1. floral sweater ($34.50) in navy / grey @Dress Barn (shop plus size here), 2. floral dress ($29.90) in black / natural @Wet Seal (shop plus size here), 3. jacquard leggings ($12.48, was $24.95) in black @Hollister (shop similar plus size here), 4. floral skirt ($14.98, was $49.95) @New York & Company (shop similar plus size here), & 5. floral bomber jacket ($24.99, was $60.00) @JC Penney (shop similar plus size here).

When it comes to fall fashion, do you wear florals? Do you prefer printed tops over bottoms? Where are you shopping for the best deals this season? For more posts, check out cozy capes & ponchos inspired by Taylor Swift & Kim Kardashian, Olivia Palermo’s newest jewelry collaboration with Bauble Bar, Sienna Miller’s chic take on menswear, & Anne Hathaway’s playful look for a recent Good Morning America appearance while promoting The Intern. Happy Styling!

Basics for a Bargain: Cozy Capes & More Must-Have Fall Favorites, Inspired by Taylor Swift, Gwen Stefani, & more!

Posted on October 5, 2015 by Alissa

The weather has finally taken its turn for fall here on Long Island, so it’s definitely time to break out those layers to keep warm & build a stylish look. This starts with toppers like capes, ponchos, & vests, which are perfect for transitioning some of your favorite summer separates for this season. These chunky knits, fine wool, & fringed pieces are not only popular on street style pros of the blogosphere, but also some of the most fashionable celebrities, including A-listers like Taylor Swift, Gwen Stefani, Jamie Chung, Kim Kardashian, & Olivia Palermo.

Here’s also an opportunity for Style Darlings of any size to play with textures & prints like cable knit, faux fur, stripes, plaid, & fringe to mix with solid basics, pops of color, and complimenting patterns.

SHOP: 1. faux fur mink cape ($69.90) in winter white @HSN (available in plus size, as well as brown & black), 2. stripe fringe poncho ($29.90) in black & white @Forever 21 (shop similar plus size here), 3. fringed cable poncho sweater ($42.00) in fig @Dress Barn (shop plus size here), 4. Ava & Viv plaid poncho ($34.99) in black & white @Target, & 5. everyday vest ($26.60, was $38.00) in black @Macy’s (one size fits all).

When wearing a full, flowy topper, the best way to show off your shape & stylish flare is to select a fitted, slim bottom to create a sense of balance. Also, these shapes are perfect to coordinate with knee boots, ankle boots, & other suede footwear for a head-to-toe fashion forward fall look.

SHOP: 1. pencil skirt ($39.90) in black @Express (shop similar plus size here), 2. Levi’s skinny jeans ($36.99) in indigo @Kohl’s (shop similar plus size here), 3. faux leather pants ($24.99) in black @H&M (shop similar plus size here), 4. skinny cords ($34.94) in burnt ochre @Old Navy (available in sizes 0-20), & 5. seamless leggings ($6.94) in black @Walmart (shop similar plus size here).

How do you like to style capes, ponchos, & vests? Where do you like to shop for fall’s biggest trends? Which celebrity inspires your style this season? For more stylish posts, check out Olivia Palermo’s jewelry collaboration with Bauble Bar, red carpet & street style inspiration from Sienna Miller, Anne Hathaway, & Gwyneth Paltrow, as well as how to wear scarves like Rihanna & Jessica Alba. Happy Styling!

Quickie Darling Deal & Steal: End-Of-The-Summer Favorites On Sale!

Posted on September 16, 2015 by Alissa

It’s that time of year to shop for the best end-of-the-summer deals, especially on items that can transition into the next season & be worn as good as new for the following year. I’m all about the bargains & love finding new ways to wear past season favorites, especially when the sales are so good & shoppers of all sizes can up their style game! All of the below items are on sale for under $24 & will certainly make your wardrobe & budget happy!

SHOP: 1. gem floral necklace ($8.99, was $18.90) in gold / white @Forever 21, 2. chunky sandals ($15.49, was $30.99) in floral @Charlotte Russe, 3. tie front top ($23.80, was $34.00) in black & white @Dress Barn, available in plus size here ($26.00, was $38.00), 4. Alohaa flats ($19.99, was $79.95) in multi @Steve Madden, 5. dress ($22.00, was $29.94) in navy @Old Navy, available in sizes XS – XXL, 6. maxi dress ($16.99, was $32.90) in burgundy @Wet Seal, shop similar plus sizes here ($20.99, was $36.90), 7. crossbody bag ($17.99, was $35.00) in pink @JCPenney, & 8. scarf ($6.98, was $18.00) in pink @Francesca’s.

And for a few more items that aren’t as widely available in sizes & color options, I couldn’t resist also sharing these basics & special pieces too!:

SHOP: 1. pants ($29.99, was $69.95) in tan @The Limited, 2. denim midi skirt ($21.99, was $64.99) @Jessica London, 3. lace stripe tee ($11.17, was $21.51) in black & white @Romwe, 4. flower earrings ($3.99, was $8.00) in coral @Charming Charlie, & 5. quilted flare dress ($34.00, was $59.95) in black @New York & Company.

Where are you shopping for the best end-of-the-season deals? What are your must-have summer items during these last few days before fall starts? For more stylish posts, check out Emily Ratajkowski’s suede skirt look, affordable scarves inspired by Emma Watson & Sarah Jessica Parker, the entire lookbook from Adam Lippes’ collection for Target, must-have mustard pieces for fall, must-see fall films including The Intern & Joy, & the latest red carpet looks from Gigi Hadid & Zendaya. Happy Styling!

08/26/2015 Darling of the Day: Emily Ratajkowski’s Seamless Summer-to-Fall Suede Look!

Posted on August 26, 2015 by Alissa

Model turned actress Emily Ratajkowski is a star on the rise, & no wonder. With roles in films like Gone Girl & Entourage, under her belt, the gorgeous star of the upcoming We Are Your Friends, alongside Zac Efron, Emily is making a splash on the red carpet, especially when she’s inspiring easy breezy summer-to-fall fashion transitions in monochromatic & single-color looks. Recently, she’s made a sleek appearance in New York City in blush tones with an Atea Oceanie top (shop similar here) & a suede Brunello Cucinelli skirt (shop similar here), paired with metallic Sophia Webster sandals (shop here).

SHOP: LOOK 1: blouse ($20.42, was $22.20) in burgundy @Chic Nova, skirt ($29.99) in burgundy @Shoptiques, & ankle strap sandals ($20.00, was $29.99) in burgundy @Charlotte Russe. LOOK 2: tank ($15.00, was $24.50) in black @LOFT (available in sizes XS-XXL), skirt ($39.99) in black @H&M, & heels ($27.99, was $60.00) in black @JC Penney (available in sizes 5-11). LOOK 3: tee ($12.00) in oatmeal @Target (available in sizes XS-XXL), skirt ($64.00) in tan @River Island, & sandal ($28.99, was $59.95) in taupe @Shoes.com. LOOK 4: blouse ($29.00, was $29.94) in fig @Old Navy (available in sizes XS-XXL), skirt ($59.99, was $189.99) in purple @Jessica London (available in sizes 12-28), & Nine West pump ($39.94, was $89.00) in purple/grey @DSW. LOOK 5: mock neck tee ($12.90) in gray @Forever 21 (available in XL-3X), skirt ($24.00, was $50.00) in gray @Missguided (available in sizes 12-20), & Belle by Badgley Mischka shoes ($29.70, was $99.00) in silver @Lord & Taylor.

For more suede inspiration, check out how some major A-listers styled their suede skirts, like fashion darling Alexa Chung, actress Ashley Madekwe, The Art of More star Kate Bosworth, English model Poppy Delevingne, & pop star, Taylor Swift.

Which suede look do you like the best? Do you wear suede now in the summer & then into fall? How do you like to style the textured separate? For more stylish posts, check out five affordable scarves for fall inspired by Sarah Jessica Parker & Emma Watson, the entire lookbook from Adam Lippes’ plaid collection for Target, must-have mustard pieces to get Jennifer Lopez & Olivia Palermo’s style, new movie trailers like Sisters starring TIna Fey & Amy Poheler, & the latest red carpet looks from celebrities including Eva Longoria & Reese Witherspoon. Happy Styling!

The Stylish Five: Affordable Scarves for Fall ($11 & Under), Inspired by Jessica Alba, Ashley Olsen, & More!

Posted on August 18, 2015 by Alissa

Somewhere along the way, I fell in love with scarves. They’re perfect for fall & winter, adding that extra splash of personality to your outfit, & only this summer did I realize the full potential of my look when there’s a stylish scarf wrapped around the handle of my favorite tote & crossbody bags. This was a way to get the most use out of my ever-growing scarf collection all year long, resolving the problem of my arms getting chilly during those cool, starry summer nights. However, you can get plenty of scarf envy from some of today’s most stylish celebrities whose looks are elevated by the accessory, like Jessica Alba, Rihanna, Emma Watson, Rachel Bilson, Sarah Jessica Parker, & Ashley Olsen.

In preparation for fall fashion, I wanted to share some of my favorite picks, in prints & solids, to inspire your scarf love, especially when wardrobe budgeting is essential. Scarves can dress down a black dress for day & keep you cozy when there’s a shift in temperature in the evening. Scarves also present an opportunity to play with prints, like trying a stripe against a polka dot (in a similar color scheme) or mixing leopard with something menswear inspired.

SHOP: tapestry scarf ($5.00, was $10.99) in blue combo @Charlotte Russe, leopard scarf ($7.36) @Chic Nova, woven scarf ($9.80) in burgundy @Forever 21, floral scarf ($9.99) in white / blue @H&M, & chiffon scarf ($11.00) in purple @Dorothy Perkins.

Which scarf style is your favorite? How do you like to style a scarf for summer & fall? Where do you shop for accessories like scarves? For more stylish posts, check out Adam Lippes’ plaid lookbook for Target, how to wear mustard for fall inspired by Jennifer Lopez & Bella Thorne, 5 must-see film trailers for this upcoming awards season, the latest celebrity red carpet looks including Keri Russell & Olivia Munn, & styling a chambray shirt like Reese Witherspoon & Kim Kardashian West. Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: The Entire Plaid Adam Lippes for Target Lookbook!

Posted on August 17, 2015 by Alissa

There’s so much going on for fall right now in terms of fashion & style. Even though it breaks my heart to wish the summer away, I have to share the newest mad-for-plaid lookbook from Adam Lippes for Target, including pieces for not just your wardrobe, but menswear, children’s clothing, home décor, outdoor goods, & much, much more! The collection is exciting for fall with fresh take on the cold weather staple print, set to hit stores on September 27th, ranging in price from $10.00 to $130.00.

The American designer recently shared with Glamour his love for plaid & excitement to create a capsule collection with Target that can reach such a vast customer base: “The history of Buffalo plaid in America starts with the Woolrich company, which originally [did it] in men’s shirts… I’ve worked with it in my own collection over the years, so for me the challenge was to make it fresh and not too boring or conservative…it’s simple but not basic, refined but not boring.”

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What do you think of the fall collaboration between Target & Adam Lippes? Are you excited to try on these new styles? Are you a fan of plaid for the fall? For more stylish posts, check out must-have mustard inspiration from Blake Lively & Taylor Swift, must-see fall films including By the Sea & Joy, the latest celebrity red carpet looks from Mindy Kaling & Gigi Hadid, & how to wear a chambray shirt for summer inspired by Olivia Palermo & Rihanna! Happy Styling

Ad Madness: Eva Mendes for Estee Lauder’s New Dimension Skincare!

Posted on July 29, 2015 by Alissa

Eva Mendes is one busy woman- not only is she a mother, girlfriend of Ryan Gosling, fashion designer (for New York & Company), & cosmetics mogul (for Circa), she’s also a spokesmodel for Estee Lauder‘s New Dimension Skincare line, including serums & cosmetics to enhance the look of your skin. The Cuban-American beauty is flawless in the ads, featuring her warm honey complexion, killer cheekbones, & natural glow. When talking about her interest in representing the products (ranging in price from $58-$89), Eva shares with Estee Lauder her own experiences getting to know her face as an actress with, “I have an angular face and I kind of had to learn which angles were which, and how I could work that into a scene,” she continues. “It’s probably what was attractive to me about becoming an actress—the art of transformation.”

The actress made an appearance at a Miami mall to promote the line in a timeless Grecian-inspired Halston Heritage dress with pink ankle strap heels, discussing her experiences as a new mother & turning 40. Later in the day, Eva was spotted at the airport, looking every bit elegant as ever in a belted printed shirtdress & sandals. Though she’s known for her sexy roles & stylish magazine covers, any Style Darling can appreciate the busy day-to-day life of the working woman who’s just trying to take care of herself. For more on Eva’s beauty philosophy, check out Estee Lauder’s interview here.

What beauty products do you trust with your skin? Are you a fan of the New Dimension line from Estee Lauder? What concerns do you have about your skincare? Shop around for the best deals on Estee Lauder at Macy’s, Nordstrom, Sephora, Bloomingdale’s, & Neiman Marcus. For more posts, check out the newest from The $100 Challenge featuring an affordable summer dress for every size, the latest red carpet looks from Halle Berry & Olivia Palermo, Dress Barn’s Calvin Klein design for less, & Taylor Swift’s fashionable music videos from her 1989 album. Happy Styling!

The $100 Challenge: Styling A Summer Dress At Every Size!

Posted on July 28, 2015 by Alissa

I’ve been thinking about fun & transformative ways to get the most out of my summer wardrobe, always looking for upgrades in staples like dresses, jewelry, & accessories at an affordable price. Lately, I love playing with color against my favorite classic pieces, which is the inspiration for this most recent Style Darling Daily post for The $100 Challenge. Since the dress below has so many possibilities, I couldn’t help picking out a few extras to get the most out of summer style for all shapes & sizes.

SHOP: 1. dress ($30.00, was $32.94) in black / white @Old Navy (available in sizes XS-XXL), 2. heels ($25.00, was $28.99) in lemon @Charlotte Russe (available in sizes 5.5-10), 3. hat ($12.90) in white / black @Forever 21, 4. studs ($8.99, was $14.00) @Francesca’s, & 5. clutch ($14.75, was $29.50) in ivory @Dress Barn (also available in peach & black).

Affordable extras include neutrals, texture, & sensible alternatives to keep your looks fresh & playful this season. I love mixing up my jewelry from day to day, even when I rotate essentials like a favorite dress from week to week.

SHOP: 1. jacket ($34.95) in light beige & plus jacket ($34.99) in light beige @H&M, 2. bracelet ($5.99, was $8.42) in gold @Romwe, 3. sunglasses ($5.99, was $19.99) @ModCloth, & 4. sandals ($12.90) in coral (wide width available for $10.99, was $14.90) @Wet Seal.

Where are you shopping for this season’s best bargains? How do you like to style your favorite summer dresses? What patterns or colors do you love to wear now? For more stylish posts, check out the latest red carpet looks from Rachel McAdams & Karlie Kloss, where to get a figure-friendly Calvin Klein dress for less, Taylor Swift’s fashionable 1989 music videos, ankle strap sandals inspired by Jennifer Lawrence & Michelle Monaghan, & jewelry must-haves from Express. Happy Styling!

#RedCarpet Review: Every Look From The 2015 #MetGala, Featuring Beyoncé, Jennifer Lawrence, Sarah Jessica Parker, & More!

Posted on May 5, 2015 by Alissa

Last night’s #MetGala at New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art honored Asian-inspired fashion with Anna Wintour‘s latest exhibition, China: Through the Looking Glass. In attendance were top A-listers from the realms of fashion, music, Hollywood, & more, wowing on the red carpet & showing support for the art of fashion. Some of the greatest risk takers of the night included Rihanna in a stunning over-the-top gold design by Guo Pei, Beyoncé‘s barely there shimmering gown by Givenchy, Jennifer Lopez who showed off her best assets in a Versace design, Sarah Jessica Parker‘s collaboration with H&M & a masterfully crafted Philip Treacy headpiece, the always elegant Kerry Washington in a pink Prada confection, & Anne Hathaway‘s futuristic & sleek hooded gold gown by Ralph Lauren.

Of course, there are plenty of glamour & daring fashion feats in the slideshow below to feed your celebrity red carpet style obsession. Who wore your favorite look? Will you be headed to NYC to check out the exhibit? Who missed the mark on the red carpet? Happy Styling!