The Cheap Diva

Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

On Tuesday, December 8 at 9:00 PM central standard time catch the hottest show of the holiday season, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show on CBS. What I love about the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show is the emphasis on show. The "fashion" show features hot models in skimpy costumes that bear a passing resemblance to lingerie, often accessorized by huge angel wings. The clothing isn't wearable, but that's the whole appeal of the show. It's a fantasy. The fantasy fashion show includes popular pop stars, production numbers staged like something out of a glamorous Broadway musical and behind the scenes footage of what goes into creating such a sexy spectacle.

Cozy and Chic Red Sweater Dresses from Kohls

Holiday dressing is a balancing act. For holiday get togethers you want to look well dressed, but not overdressed. The ideal dress is festive enough for holiday parties, but versatile enough that it can be worn outside of the party scene. The one dress that does this balancing act beautifully is a red sweater dress. It's chic, cozy comfortable and festive enough to brighten up holiday gatherings. For red sweater dresses that don't cost a lot of green, check out the dresses at Kohl's.

The classic cable knit sweater gets a chic update with this Women's Sharagano Cable-Knit Dress. This richly textured dress works best with simple accessories, like a statement belt or bold cuff bracelet.

Plaid is a popular pattern in winter, but too much plaid can make you look like you are wearing a plaid blanket. A little plaid perks this otherwise Chaps Plaid Sweaterdress - Women's. The fit and flair dress features just the right amount of red and black plaid to add dramatic flair to the dress. Keep the accessories simple, like shown in the picture, to keep the focus on the attractive plaid pattern and feminine flared skirt.

This Chaps Turtleneck Shift Dress - Women's offers a fresh twist on the traditional turtleneck. The intense red color spices up the simple silhouette for a look that transitions easily from festive holiday look to everyday elegance.  This basic style can be accessorized countless ways, allowing you to create a variety of distinctive looks with the same dress.

Figure Flattering Graphic Sweaters from JC Penny

Sweaters are tricky. The right sweater can make you look fabulous while the wrong sweater can make you look like a frump. Thankfully there is more to fall fashion than boring solid colored sweaters.  This season it's easy to perk up your cool weather wardrobe with chic graphic sweaters from JC Penney designed to fit your feminine figure and your budget.

Ombré stripes on this graphic Liz Claiborne Long-Sleeve Patterned Tunic Sweater create a sophisticated illusion that that flatters the figure by drawing the eye upward and making the bottom appear slimmer. 

With a sleek geometric pattern that pops against the black background, this Liz Claiborne 3/4-Sleeve Triangle Graphic Sweater has a fresh style that fits perfectly in the modern world. This sweater is surprisingly versatile. Wear it with dark wash jeans for a casual chic look, pair it with colorful red or purple jeans for a bold statement, or pair it with a pencil skirt for a posh look.

Dress for dazzling effect with this shimmering Alfred Dunner 3/4-Sleeve Striped Layered Sweater. The diagonal bold stripes create a dynamic sense of movement that is flattering on most figures. The dramatic sweater offers a chic look that blends comfort and style beautifully. The shimmering sequin accents make this sweater an ideal look for evenings out and special occasions.

The Shocking Disappearance of Petite Fashions

I was shocked and disappointed when I discovered my local Macy's store was eliminating there petite clothing department. I shopped there regularly for stylish petite clothing at an affordable price. Yes I know I could find about a zillion clothing options in petite sizes if I shopped online but I don't like shopping for clothing online. I like to see clothes up close enough to touch them. The problem with buying online is that a computer can't tell me that the flimsy fabric in a garment has the texture of sandpaper or the sleeves on the "petite" shirt are actually longer than a regular misses shirt. Sleeves that come down to my knuckles is  not an attractive look by the way.

So where can chic petite women shop for clothing that fits both their body and their budget? I often shop at JC Penny. JC Penney has one of the best budget friendly petite departments around. From yoga pants to business appropriate blouses, JC Penny carries a little of everything including this Alfred Dunner 3/4-Sleeve Scroll Yoke Top. Selection may vary from store to store so if you have multiple JC Penny stores in your area I suggest shopping at the largest store since that's likely to have the best selection.  

Kohl's used to have a decent petite's department but this department has shrunk in size faster that blue jeans thrown in the drier on high heat. This  limited selection is hit or miss and often looks and feels cheap. If you wear petite clothing and shop at Kohls for other stuff you might take a few minutes to wander into the petite department, but it's not a must see for stylish petite women.

The petites department at Dillard's is also worth checking out. Dillard's sells good quality garments in a variety of styles. The prices are reasonable but only if you buy items on sale. If you are done with  disposable fashions and are ready to invest in timeless clothing that looks classy, head to your nearest  Talbots store. The classy and classic investment pieces don't come cheap, even on sale they items aren't great bargains, but these are great pieces for making a great first impression in a job interview or any other situation you want to dress to impress. Tight clothing looks tacky and loose clothing looks sloppy. What makes Talbots clothing look so posh and polished is that they are designed to fit and flatter the petite figure and they often feature rich colors and better quality fabric.

I know I said I don't like to shop for clothing online, but shopping online for petites obviously gives you a lot more options. If you find yourself drawn to specific items in the misses department, write down the name of the brand and the type of item, such as Liz Claiborne blouse. After taking note of the name of the brand you like go ahead and visit the web site for that store to see if some of your favorite misses brands feature petite versions online. Online stock may be greater selection that what is in store. One last shopping tip, if you find something that fits your body, your style and your budget buy it! At the rate petite clothing is disappearing it's better to start building a well rounded wardrobe now.

 

 

Update Your Look with Stylish Scarves

The trick to appearing effortlessly stylish is looking like you simply threw an outfit together and it just happened to work out beautifully. A well designed scarf is one of the best accessories you can own if you want to achieve the illusion of effortless style. Throw on a patterned scarf from Kohl's and suddenly that bland outfit takes on an attitude of casual chic.  

This Softer Than Cashmere? Argyle Oblong Scarf may or may not be softer than cashmere but it certainly cheaper than real cashmere! The classic preppy argyle pattern looks fresh when it's infused with playful colors like purple and aqua.

Tired of wearing the same basic tops over and over again? Spice up your look with this wild Apt. 9 Leopard Pashmina Scarf. The rayon scarf is lightweight enough to wear any season and the fierce pattern makes this accessory the focal point of any outfit. A dramatic scarf does a terrific job of distracting attention away from the fact that your overall outfit is rather plain.

The problem with wearing a chunky cable knit sweater is that it tends to make any woman larger than a size 4 look chunky. Enjoy the look of classic cable knit without looking like a you gained 20 pounds in this cozy Columbia Cable-Knit Scarf. The brilliant red color combined with the traditional cable pattern offers a fresh twist on a classic look. Wear it over shirts, jackets and coats.

Step Up Your Fall Look with Fashionable Ankle Boots

Given the ridiculously high temperatures (it was over 80 degrees today!) it's hard for me to imagine this endless summer will give way to cool fall weather. Eventually cool weather will come of course, and stocking up on stylish ankle boots is a terrific way to make the transition to cool weather fashion much easier. Payless Shoes is my go to shoe store for ankle boots.

The designer details and chunky heel on this Christian Siriano for Payless Pearce Block Heel Boot  make a confident style statement demands attention. The Pearse by Christian Siriano features an upper with dual gore for easy on/easy off, strap and stud accents, 3 1/2" block heel with 1/2" platform.

Women's Remi Ankle Zip Boot  is the perfect boot to infuse your cool weather wardrobe with rich texture of (faux) suede in vibrant hues. The simply styled Remi boot features a faux suede upper, dual zipper accents - one for fashion, one for function and a slim 1/2" heel. If you aren't feeling the whole blue boot thing, no worries, the boot also comes in neutral colors like black.

The effortless style of this Women's Virgil Comfort Boot will complement your outfits while cradling your feet with a comfy memory foam insole. The sleek and chic wedge heel boot features a contemporary  buckle accent and a side zip to make quick wardrobe changes easier. The tapered 2 1/4" heel is high enough to help make your legs look longer, but still low enough to wear all day.

Faux Diamond Jewelry offers Affordable Glamour

Costume "diamonds" are a glamour girl's best friend. Costume jewelry embellished with sparkling stones that imitate diamonds offers the glamour of fine jewelry without the highly inflated price. Finding stylish costume jewelry that won't cost a fortune is as easy as shopping at mass retailers like Kohl's. 

Let your sparkling  personality shine in this fabulous Dana Buchman Flower Pin. The dramatically stylized flower pin is the perfect embellishment for a jacket, heavy knit scarf or a hat.

This Simply Vera Vera Wang Two Tone Bangle Bracelet is a simply stunning example of modern glamour. The clean and contemporary style provides the perfect showcase for rich layers of dazzling gems. The chic and sophisticated bracelet will elevate the look of any outfit you pair it with from fancy evening dresses to more casual everyday ensembles.

Croft & Barrow Silver Tone Simulated Pearl & Simulated Crystal Drop Earrings mixes the soft luster of pearls with the eye catching sparkle of diamonds. The elegant combination of pearls and diamonds brings  a touch of class to any look. Because the style is simply elegant and not too fancy or ornate, these earrings transition beautifully from day into evening.

Alluring Animal Pattern Totes for Gals on the Go

Whether it's a wild leopard print or a chic crocodile pattern, these fabulous animal pattern totes from JC Penney takes chic women from fun weekend getaways to serious business meetings in style. Take your look from mild to wild with this fashionable nicole by Nicole Miller Suzie Large Tote. The large frame tote with partial chainlink handles offers bold style that takes you everywhere from the corporate jungle to more leisurely pursuits.   

 

Yes you can dress to impress without sacrificing practical considerations, like the 101 "essential" items you simply can't leave home without. This Liz Claiborne Hybrid Tote is the perfect combination of sleek style and practical features. The sharp and sophisticated croc textured tote sports a sleek design with enough pockets and interior space to store your essentials.

Shop til you drop, the generously sized Liz Claiborne Real Fit Tote can fit a boatload of your bargain finds. The textured croc look and metallic finish make this one chic shopping bag. A tote bag of this size makes a terrific travel companion for weekend jaunts or longer vacations.

Stand Tall in Sleek Wedge Shoes from Payless

Do you love the way heels make you look taller but hate the painful balancing act of wearing stilettos? Check out these stylish wedge heels from Payless Shoe Source. These sleek wedge heel shoes combine the sex appeal of a stiletto with the sure footed support of a well designed heel.

This Women's Mink Medallion Wedge from Fioni takes you from work to play in style, From it's pretty round toe with ornate medallion to the slim 3" wrapped wedge, this glossy shoe nails the look of sophisticated designer shoes. 

 

 

Elevate your everyday look in this chic and comfortable Women's Vicki Comfort Wedge Boot. The  sleek silhouette showcases design details like bold buckle accent, ankle pull tab beautifully,  The gore insert offers easy on/easy off while the cushiony memory foam insole and 2 1/2" wedge provide all-day comfort.

 

 

Strut with confidence in this Women's Hartley Wedge from Fioni. The pretty patterned wedge shoe features a faux suede upper with an intricate diamond chopout design, gently rounded toe and wearable 2 1/2" wedge heel. It's a great transitional shoe that is serious enough for work but stylish enough for leisure.

Flattering Fit and Flare Dresses from Kohl's

Feminine and forgiving of less than perfect figures, few styles flatter a woman like a fit and flare style dress from Kohl's. Show off your confident sense of style in a bold Chaps Colorblock A-Line Dress - Women's. The visually slimming dress has black side panels framing a long stretch of teal blue material. The high contrast  design narrows the waist then flairs out in a flirty gesture. 

A textured animal design lends a fierce look to this flattering  Apt. 9 Animal Textured Fit & Flare Dress - Women's. The sophisticated snake pattern fabric skims the body, hugging your curves in a sensuous fashion, then loosening up on the bottom for a relaxed fit that combines comfort and style. 

Discover the timeless elegance of this Dana Buchman Ponte Fit & Flare Dress - Women's. Fitted bodice and flared, pleated skirt create a flattering silhouette that shows off your feminine figure to full effect. The contrasting black bands bring a modern element to the classic styling of this lovely dress.

Fierce Sleepshirts at Frugal Prices

My dream sleep shirt combines the fierceness of a fabulous animal print with the ridiculous comfort of a soft T-shirt. With their selection of affordable sleep ware, stylish retailors like Target and Kohl's are making this dream a reality. This sassy pink animal print Hanes Premium Women's Sleep Tee Shirt - Flashbulb Fuchsia from Target is designed to look and feel like a T-shirt with a relaxed fit, V-neck and short sleeves. The wild sleep shirt provides enough coverage for lounging around at home in style.

Apt. 9 Pajamas: Casual Sophistication Dolman Sleep Shirt - Women's from Kohl's combines a loose fitting cut with silky smooth rayon blend fabric that begs to be touched for an exceptionally comfortable sleep shirt. The neutral gray and black color palette is not bold, which allows the designer to go bold with a large scale print. By keeping the colors neutral and the pattern bold, the look is more fierce than fashion victim. The 3/4 length sleeves are a blessing to those of us who hate having to constantly push up our too long sleeves.

Daizies - Women's Cheetah/Roses Sleep Shirt - Flowers by Zoe from Target delivers an irresistible combination of fierce and feminine elements with a unique print that displays lovely roses blooming amid a background of a wild cheetah pattern. This wild sleep shirt shows off its softer side with cozy jersey fabric and easy fit. Pair this sleep shirt with black leggings to create a complete pajama look that offers enough coverage for such exciting public appearances as going out to get the mail or answering the door.

Comfy Shoes Verses Cute Tops, What to Buy First

 

 

 

 

 

 

My most recent visit to the shopping mall was rife with temptation. It seems like everything is on sale this time of year. I found cute tops and cute shoes on sale that would all be wonderful additions to my wardrobe. Instead of indulging in a sale induced shopping spree, I decided to leave the mall empty handed and come back when I had enough cash on hand to buy 1 of the items I was longing for. Faced with the challenge of having to pick 1 item out among several, I decided to prioritize my purchase based on the following criteria.

• How difficult would it be to find a similar item at a similar price in the future?  I had my eye on a pair on Crocs shoes, which almost never go on sale. Finding a pair of good quality comfortable walking shoes for under $50.00 is about as rare as winning the lottery, so I get super excited when it happens. On the other hand, it's pretty easy for me to find cute tops on sale.
• How many items do I already have in my closet that are similar to the one I am thinking of buying? I have plenty of cute tops, but only a few walking shoes that are comfortable after hours of walking. The Crocs shoes win again.
• How much use will I get out of the item? I dress pretty casual for my office job, so a cute top would get worn once in a while. Comfortable shoes get worn constantly.
• How much value am I getting for my money?. The cute tops are cheaper in price than the shoes, but they are made of cheap cotton or cotton blend fabric so I might be better off waiting for a better sale or skipping the item altogether. The shoes have superior arch support and cushioning built in.

After answering all these questions it's obvious that the Women's Duet Busy Day 2.0 Satya Flat shoes are the smart purchase. Asking questions like this when facing the temptation of too many bargains makes it easier to identify which item is worth the money and which items are better left on the sale rack. Instead of feeling buyers remorse when my shopping spree shows up on my credit card bill, I pay cash for 1 well thought out purchase and feel good about being such a smart shopper.

Sleep in Style with Summer Pajamas from Kohls

The only thing more indulgent than sleeping late is sleeping in stylish sleepwear from Kohl's. A first glance this Apt. 9 Floral Scroll Border Tank Chemise - Women's looks like a fashionable day dress. Design elements like the lace racerback with scalloped cutout, ruched neckline details and richly detailed ombre pattern elevates a bedtime basic into a beautiful loungewear piece. 

This Chaps Pajamas: Coral Gable Polka-Dot Knit Sleep Shirt - Women's wraps you in dreamy soft knit fabric that's ideal for slipping off into sweet slumber. Design details like a notched collar, button down front and monogramed pocket give this dreamy sleepwear a more sophisticated look than a typical sleep shirt.

Soft rayon fabric, chiffon accents, and shirred details enhance the feminine appeal of this Simply Vera Vera Wang Pajamas: Floral Impressions Tee & Capris Pajama Set - Women's. Contrasting piping and a tailored collar accenting a three button placket completes the pretty PJ set. 

Organize Your Way to a Happier Home

Would you be more happy if you had less clutter in your home? If you don't feel good about your space and you have this nagging feeling that you would be happier with less stuff, it's time to clear out the clutter and make room for the things you do want in your life, like more free time. To start the journey of a happier and well ordered home, do a walk through of your space to identify problem areas that could be cured with a good decluttering and organizing. As you tour each room, focus on areas that make you feel bad in some way and identify the negative feelings associated with certain objects within that space.

Sometimes good intentions can lead to clutter and the bad feelings associated with having the wrong stuff around. Space hogging objects that you associate with incomplete tasks can lead to feeling like a failure or lack of discipline. Over time a pile cooking utensils you never use because of the time and hassle involved in making your own bread, canning your own fruit or whipping up a gourmet meal can come to represent lack of time and/or lack of commitment using your cooking skills.  To feel better about an over packed pantry, make peace with the fact that you are not Martha Stewart, donate kitchen items in good shape to someone who can use them and embrace the simple pleasure of fixing easy to prepare meals.

Incomplete projects that you have been meaning to get to forever with little progress to show for it creates the uneasy feeling of unfinished business that needs to be addressed. Stop telling yourself that you are going to finish that project someday, which in your heart you know is a lie, and pass on the pieces of that craft project to someone who can repurpose them (like an art teacher) or hire someone to finish that D.I.Y. project designed to improve your home. Once the project issue has been resolved you can let go of that feeling of needing to solve the problem of unfinished projects, and enjoy the satisfaction of having addressed the issue of those projects so you can now focus your attention of more pleasurable pastimes than beating yourself up over not getting things done.

Few things are more depressing than the sight of unpaid bills piling up on the kitchen table. A pile of bills do not make an attractive centerpiece on any table. Of course the easiest way to get rid of bills is to pay them as soon as you get them, but not everyone has the money to pay every bill the moment it appears.  Instead of having bills sitting around in plain sight reminding you of your lack of money, try an easy organizing solution, such as storing bills in a shoebox with a checkbook and a book of postage stamps. Tuck the box of bills and bill paying essentials into a handy drawer near a convenient writing surface like a desk. Bring the box out only when you are ready to pay those bills.  An easy way to remember to bring the box out is to create an easy to remember bill paying schedule. For example, you can bring the box of bills and bills paying essentials out every time you get paid and put the box out of sight and out of mind once the bills are paid. Now that the bills aren't in you face and on your table, find an appealing centerpiece for your table that makes you feel good, like fresh flowers, a bowl or fruit or a lovely tablecloth.

Before you get rid of certain items, it's helpful to rid of the guilt associated with letting go of those items. you loved your aunt Edna but you don't love her taste or the appallingly tacky furnishings she left you, consider renewing those outdated pieces with a make over. A fresh coat of paint or reupholstering furniture if the piece has good bones can give new life to old pieces so you get to keep a sentimental piece without sacrificing your style. If you just can't live with a loved ones bad taste or the piece is not worth the effort of a major makeover, try to sell items through a furniture consignment store or donate them to a local thrift store. If the thought of getting rid of pieces given to you by loved ones makes you feel guilty, you can donate the money you get for the items to a favorite charity which makes this form of purging feel a little more noble.

In spite of the epidemic of digital photos, the reality is that not every moment is a Hallmark moment worthy of being memorialized forever. Just because you love your friends and family does not mean you have to turn your space into a photo gallery jam packed images of people and places you feel a connection to.  To narrow down your collection of pictures worth displaying, pick images that you associate with especially positive memories such as special vacation or important milestone. You can involve family members living at home by having them pick their favorite picture of themselves. Engaging family members prevents the possibility that you might accidentally remove pictures that have major sentimental value to other members of the household. After narrowing down your collection of favorite pictures to something manageable, look for less cluttered ways to display the photos, such a buying large collage style frames that hang on the wall and contain multiple photos. A bunch of mismatched frames looks chaotic. For a more harmonious look buy picture frames that are similar in style and color, such as all silver frames.

Without the distraction of clutter piling up it's easier to appreciate what you have. As you finish each project take a moment to pause and focus on your sense of accomplishment before moving on to another task. Once you have finished a project, or several organizing projects, feel free to do another walk through your space and focus on all the wonderful things you are blessed to have in your home.

 

 

 

Fabulous Flats for Under $50.00 from JC Penny

JC Penny is one of my favorite stores for chic clothing at cheap prices. All of their shoes featured here are under $50.00, which is quite a bargain for shoes that are cute and comfortable. Step up the level of sophistication in your casual ensembles with ultra stylish Liz Claiborne Iris Flats. Showcasing metal hardware on a round toe, strategically placed topstitching, these brilliant flats feature the kind of designer details that make the frugal flats look expensive.

 

Many stylish women rely on classic and comfortable basic black flats to complete their everyday ensembles, but basic doesn't have to mean boring. The finely patterned cutouts on these brilliant Modellista Blair Ballet Flats elevate a simple pair of shoes into a stylish wardrobe staple that allows your feet to breath and your sense of style to stand out.

 

Jazz up your everyday look with a pop of color and shine with these Unisa Barnie Ballet Flats. The sleek and sophisticated ballet flats feature a flirty cutout design on the outside of the shoe for an unexpected twist on the classic ballet flat. The round toe and classic lines of the shoe lend a timeless feel to the shoe which complements the bold color and contemporary cutout beautifully.

Get Glowing with Beauty Products from The Body Shop

A beauty expert once told me her nickname for tanning beds is "aging in a box" because of the damage they do to the skin.  Luckily The Body Shop stocks plenty of products that can give you a sunny golden glow without frying your skin. Give your skin a just back from the beach look in minutes with  Honey Bronze Shimmering Dry Oil. The lightweight body oil contains a hint of shimmer to give your skin a golden or bronze glow. For a golden glow, use the Honey Gold shade.  For darker bronze color, use the Honey Kissed shade. 

Take dull skin from drab to fab with these Brush on Radiance beads. These shimmering little beads of iridescent colour give skin a luminescent glow to liven up your complexion. If the idea of all over shimmer makes you feel like a walking disco ball, highlight parts of your body, like the tops of your cheeks, where light would naturally hit, by lightly powdering that area. 

Give your lips a sweet treat with this Honey Bronze Shimmer Lip Balm. The delicious honey balm pampers your pout by plumping and repairing your lips so your pucker always looks perfect. The shimmery lip balm looks pretty by itself or layered over your favorite lipstick for lips that really shine.

The Classic Tee Shirt gets Chic and Colorful Updates

The classic T-shirt is a wonderful wardrobe staple, but a closet full of basic T-shirts is boring. To avoid wardrobe boredom while still enjoying the figure flattering benefits of a comfortable T-shirt, look for  shirts that have been updated with contemporary fabrics and design details, like these fraffordable and attractive T-shirts from JC Penny. A curvy sweetheart neckline brings feminine flair to this sporty Made For Life Short-Sleeve Layered Y-Neck T-Shirt. The sporty stripes and slim fit give the classic T-shirt a modern look. 

I loved this Liz Claiborne Short-Sleeve Lace-Front T-Shirt so much I actually bought one for myself in blue. The lovely panel of matching lace layered on the lightweight rayon fabric brings an element of relaxed elegance to this well designed T-shirt. Rayon knit fabric drapes beautifully, takes dye well so it colors look positively saturated and has the kind of smooth silky texture that makes me wish I could wear it to bed, which is why rayon knit fabric tends to look dressier that typical cotton knit fabric.

Let your sensational sense of style shine in this Liz Claiborne Sleeveless Sequin T-Shirt. A shimmering of sequins in a modern geometric pattern lends the perfect amount of pizazz to this posh purple T-shirt. A shiny, embellished T-shirt like this works wonderfully for the cocktail hour and those special occasions where you want to look well dressed without feeling overdressed. The scoop neck and cap sleeves enhance the dressy look, so it looks more like a nice blouse than a casual everyday T-shirt. 

The Long and Short of Denim Bottoms

As the summer temperatures rise, so do the number of unflattering shorts. I searched online through more Daisy Duke thigh baring, shredded, skin tight shorts than I knew existed to find denim bottoms that were both flattering and attractive. Ultimately I did find some fabulous denim shorts  at Kohls.

A sleek short that goes almost to the knee is perfect for the stylish gal on the go. These Apt. 9 Solid Bermuda Shorts - Women's in Polished Denim feature a stretchy cotton blend fabric that ensures a comfortable fit. The posh and practical design goes from a casual everyday look to a more polished look with a simple change of dressy accessories and top. 

These SONOMA life + style Cuffed Bermuda Jean Shorts - Women's combine the look of classic jeans with the warm weather comfort of shorts. The stretchy denim fabric helps keep the slim shape shape while the cuffs and contrasting topstitching enhance the laid back attitude of these long and lean jean shorts.  

Give your warm-weather wardrobe a stylish update with these Apt. 9 Modern Fit Cuffed City Shorts - Women's. The streamlined design ends in classic cuffed hems for a finished look. The chic shorts have a relaxed fit through the leg for a relaxed, yet clean and modern approach to summer dressing.

Posh Pearl Fashion Jewelry at Low Prices

Lustrous pearls are such a posh look that even affordable costume jewelry from Kohls looks like the crown jewels when adorned with pretty pearls. These regal Juicy Couture Crown Stud Earrings are fit for any queen of style. Luminous pearls are literally crowned with elegant gold crowns accented with a sparkling clear stones.

Lustrous pearls and sparkling crystals make this Dana Buchman Necklace a luxurious addition to any dressy ensemble. The classic glamour of this sumptuous pearl necklace is given a contemporary twist with simply styled pearl settings and modern chain for a timeless look.

The lustrous glow of simulated pearls and opulent open-worked beads make this 1928 Bead Stretch Bracelet a beautiful choice you'll love to wear with your favorite ensembles. To showcase a fancy bracelet complement it with simple accessories, such as simple pearl stud earrings or basic gold chain necklace. 

Stay Cool in Chic Summer Tops

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Summer is all about effortless style, which does not mean looking like a slob. To achieve the casual chic look, shop for stylish tops made in breathable natural fabrics and body skimming silhouettes, like these sleeveless tops from JC Penny.  Complement your curves with this figure flattering Liz Claiborne Diamond Print Faux-Wrap Tank Top with a deep v-neckline and faux-wrap styling that drapes elegantly across the body. The rayon jersey fabric is emblazoned with a fresh blue and white pattern.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The red hot Liz Claiborne Soutache Tank Top takes the classic tank top and gives it a stylish update with soutache trim along the yoke. The high neckline and long profile gives this slim tank a long and lean look. Wear the rayon jersey knit tank top with dark wash denim bottoms for an attractive outfit that takes you from leisurely days to fun filled nights without missing a beat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

An attractive crochet lace overlay accented by vertical lace trim adds a layer of rich texture and pattern to the front of this a.n.a Sleeveless Lace Front Tank Top.  The relaxed silhouette floats away from the body which is brilliant camouflage for muffin tops and not so flat tummies. The saturated sapphire blue color elevates this simple tank top into a real show stopper.

Look Cool in Pretty Printed Summer Dresses

A pretty summer dress covered in an attractive pattern makes it easy to look effortlessly stylish. The fresh floral style of this lovely MILLY for DesigNation Print Fit & Flare Dress - Women's delivers relaxed  glamour appropriate for any special occasion worth getting dressed up for.   

 

Casual style is all about comfort. This wonderfully wearable SONOMA life + style Slubbed Dress - Women's features a slubbed texture, relaxed silhouette and shirred details for a dress that looks and feels fabulous all day long. The black and white pattern adds contemporary chic to this simple dress. 

 

Turn this Gaiam Studio to Street Serendipity Reversible Dress - Women's inside out and it instantly transforms from classic little black dress to modern fashion statement. The dense all over print works on any body type because it keeps the eye moving and distracts from figure flaws you don't want to draw attention to.

Celebrities are Hijacking the Fashion Runway

The revealing book Hijacking the Runway is a fascinating account of how celebrity has invaded and dominated the world of fashion, impacting the popularity of clothing styles and the profits of some of the biggest brands in apparel. Agins covers the topic with writer has the combined wit, style, and fashion insider's insight on the fascinating struggles of the great triumphs and failures of major names in fashion. 
 
Fashion houses ruled for decades dictating style and  trends, but the rise of celebrity worship is changing all that. Everyone from major stars in entertainment and sports from dime a dozen reality-show stars are leveraging their celebrity to become the face of their own fashion brands. And a few celebrities, like the Olsen Twins and Victoria Beckham, have gone all the way and reinvented themselves as real designers. Not all celebrities succeed, but in a highly crowded marketplace, it’s difficult for any fashion brand to succeed without celebrity involvement. Some designers, like Michael Kors, have gone as far as becoming celebrities themselves.

After documenting the rise of celebrity as style arbiters  and making it clear that fashion designers can't expect to get rich on their design talent alone. The author concludes that the best way for fashion designers to survive and thrive in this celebrity obsessed culture is to court the media and the masses by becoming a celebrity in their own right. The in depth of reporting makes this a great read for for "fashionistas," and anyone interested in how business really succeeds or fails in the world of celebrity culture, fashion and finance.

Cheap and Chic Cat Eye Sunglasses

If you want to look chic this summer skip the flimsy flip flops and tacky plastic tote bags and dress to impress in glamourous cat eye sunglasses. A pair of fabulous cat eye sunglasses adds a touch of glamour to even the most casual summer outfits. These contemporary Converse Chuck Taylor Cat's-Eye Women's Sunglasses offer a fresh take to the classic cat's-eye design. 

 

 

These daisy fuentes Glitter Cat's-Eye Sunglasses - Women boast vintage style updated with a fierce tiger theme design to keep things interesting. The neutral colors of these animal print sunglasses make the glasses wildly versatile.

 

Think of these women's Unionbay Cat's-Eye Sunglasses as jewelry for the face. The sophisticated sunglasses feature a classic cat's-eye design embellished with sparkling rhinestone accents for a touch of glamour.

Stunning Silver Necklaces

With all the summer fashions featuring low necklines, a pretty necklace is the perfect piece to take your summer ensembles from plain to posh. This cool elegance of this 1928 Silver Tone Filigree Bead Swag Necklace complements summer fashions beautifully. The string of beautiful aqua blue beads hanging from stylish silver links lends a splash of color to your look.

The timeless look of this appealing Chaps Chain-Link Necklace adds an element of contemporary chic to any outfit. The versatile necklace complements both casual to posh outfits so well that it's what I call an "all purpose" jewelry piece. An all purpose piece of jewelry is practically foolproof, complementing so many different outfits so well you can wear it with just about anything and feel confident that you look good.

Nothing wakes up an otherwise boring outfit like a dramatic accessory. This Simply Vera Vera Wang Marquise Long Necklace enhances your look with glamourous  marquise-shaped iridescent pink accents that practically glow against a backdrop of dramatically draped chains that hang like a curtain behind these glorious scene stealing gems.

Stylish Summer Hats Sure to Turn Heads

The wrong hat can make a super model look dumpy, but the right summer hat can make you look like a Diva. To find the most flattering summer hats look for ones that have a classic shape and plenty of style like these hats from Kohls!

The classic boater hat always looks chic. This Apt. 9 Grosgrain Straw Hat - Women's lends an air of casual elegance to any summer ensemble.

 

Summertime is full of special occasions, like weddings, that provide a perfect excuse to get dressed up. The metallic finish with contrasting stripes of this fabulous Apt. 9 Metallic-Stripe Tweed Floppy Hat - Women's delivers just right blend of drama and sophistication.

 

 

Summer fashions are filled with light flowing fabrics and relaxed silhouettes.  The best way to accessorize easy, breezy summer fashions is with a casual yet chic summer hat like this Apt. 9 Packable Radial Tweet Microbrim Hat.  

Pretty Patterned Tote Bags

A well designed tote bag is the ultimate all purpose bag and perfect travel companion, taking you from weekend getaways to fun shopping sprees in style. The crisp stripes of this  Women's Stripe Print Canvas Tote Handbag - Red from Target make even the most casual outfit look polished and put together. The removable shoulder strap offers hands free convenience for multitasking Divas. 

The precise laser cut pattern of the Apt. 9 Margo Laser-Cut Tote from Kohls transforms this simple tote bag into a major style statement. The richly detailed design and on trend coral color gives this budget friendly bag a luxe designer look that would cost a bag full of money.

This Croft & Barrow Scoop Top Tote from Kohls balances bold design gestures with subtle and sophisticated elements for a distinctive high fashion look that completes your favorite summer outfits. The neutral brown trim and sleek design showcases the vibrant graphic design beautifully.

Flat out Fabulous Summer Sandals from Payless!

With all the fabulously affordable shoes at Payless shoes, freshening up your look is as easy as slipping into a new pair of flats. These glossy pink Women's Wink Flat Sandal are a sophisticated and sexy summer sandal that adds a playful pop of color to your warm weather wardrobe.

 

The intricate cut out design of this Women's Peso Chopout Gladiator Flat makes these flats a cut above your typical gladiator sandal. The dense pattern and dark color give these sandals enough substance to pair well with clothes in dark colors and heavier fabrics like denim.

 

Whether on vacation or  hanging out at your favorite local attractions, the effortless style of this Women's Fiesta Bermuda Espadrille fits summer style perfectly. The striped fabric upper features a rainbow of fresh summer colors.  

Fashionable Maxi Dresses at Minimal Prices!

Want to hide an abundance of figure flaws without looking like a frump? Slip into a figure flattering maxi dress from Kohl's. The long flowing style makes these dresses a great choice for a chic warm weather look. To take your this casually elegant look to new heights, accessorize your maxi dress with a pair of wedge heels. 

This Dana Buchman Crochet Bodice Maxi Dress is available in a rainbow of colors. The eye candy colors are complemented by an easy to wear silhouette with a slightly relaxed fit that skims the body.  

The bold black and white Ikat pattern and richly detailed neckline of this exotic Ronni Nicole Ikat Empire Maxi Dress makes me want to join the tribe of fashionable women rocking the maxi dress. The look may be on trend, but the Ikat pattern and contemporary design lines are so timeless you can wear this for one fabulous occasion after another and never look out of style.  

This sapphire blue MILLY for DesigNation Dolman Maxi Dress is a real gem of a dress. The uninterrupted line of brilliant color from collar to hem visually lengthens the body. The simplicity of the dress lends itself to countless beautiful possibilities. Turn up the volume with accessories in bright colors, go for glam with silver or gold jewelry and metallic accessories, or keep it simple and sophisticated like the look pictured here.   

Buy Designer Lilly Pulitzer Fashions at Target

Designer Lilly Pulitzer created a fun in the sun Palm Beach inspired style. For a limited time Lilly Pulitzer pieces are available at Target at great prices. The Lilly Pulitzer collection includes her famous sunshine bright colors and playful patterns adorning shift dresses, swimwear and (my favorite) accessories. 

The Lilly Pulitzer for Target Women's Floppy Hat with Scarf - Nosie Posey  in lightweight straw with gold grommets and removable scarf protects you at the beach or pool in fabulous summer style. 

 

 

The possibilities are endless when you accessorize with this Lilly Pulitzer for Target Women's Scarf with Pompoms - My Fans. Whether you wear it as a traditional scarf, a shawl, a head wrap, a belt or some other way, this whimsical tropical pattern will brighten any outfit with it's cheerful colors and pattern.

 

 

 

 

How charming! The sunny gold trinkets of this Lilly Pulitzer for Target Women's Charm Bracelet - Gold brings the easy breezy beach inspired style to everything you wear. Wear it with a resort worthy sundress or chic short sets for a casual glam look worthy of a Palm Beach princess.       

Summer Sandals Put some Sparkle in Your Step

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I love the idea of looking fabulous right down to my to toes which is why I love shoes embellished with faux gems. With a wearable wedge heel, sophisticated design, and jewelry worthy accents, this  York Transit Forcast Women's T-Strap Wedge Sandals from Kohls makes all the right moves.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This Women's Simba Jelly Flat Sling from Payless is the perfect embellished sandal for warm weather strolling. The brilliant sandal features a flexible jelly upper with colorful jewels adorning the strap, matching patterned footbed, and a flexible sole that moves with you. 

 

 

 

 

Master warm weather style in SM Dalloris T-Strap Sandals from JC Penny. The sophisticated thong sandal features a subtle wedge heel, stretchy side straps and fashionable upper embellished with contrasting faux gems.