Tag Archives: savvy

Celebrity Copy Cat – Classy Casual

July 17, 2015

Hello again, fashionable friends!

I’m sure most of you have caught on to the “classy casual” trend that seems to have swept through popular blog posts around the world. SincerelyJules and Kature have even been known to even strut down a red carpet wearing a Chanel jacket and Jimmy Choo pumps styled with unexpected deconstructed denim trousers, minimal makeup, and beachy waves. We all love it, right? The juxtaposition of the classic with the edgy is exciting; however, the cruel irony of the seemingly downplayed, popular look is that it is pretty damn difficult to pull off.

So, where do we start? How do we mimic those fashion icons without looking like Modonna and Jackie Kennedy’s wardrobes had a dysfunctional lovechild? Even more, how do we do it without breaking the bank on some of the items that seem almost essential to the look (i.e. Valentino studded heels)?

Let’s take a little inspiration from our friends over at SincerelyJules and Kayture (both fabulous – check them out)…

Credit: Kayture.com

Credit: SincerelyJules.com

Now…to mimic the looks without gawking at the price tags.

Firstly, both classy casual looks have one thing in common – those incredible Rockstud heels from Valentino ($995). I don’t know about you, but my “mom status” puts me more in the Nordstrom Rack roaming section rather than the Saks “hand over your kid’s college tuition” section. One of the best look-alikes I found is by Loslandifen and is a mere $39!

Secondly, we need a structured jacket. Fortunately, the classic fashionista usually has one or two of those somewhere in her closet. In case you are looking for something new, I am loving the Mural Slouchy Blazer. I own it in almost every color and I adore all of them.

Thirdly, minimalist accessories like the Long Necklace Gold Bar from Layered and Long and a classic structured tote make this look understated yet fabulous.

Finally, pair an unstructured top like a the Zara loose t-shirt with a basic pair of bottoms. Based on the two inspiration pictures, I included a white denim option and a great black short option. Both are affordable and would look great with your blogger-inspired look!

Fasionably yours,

The Good Girl Who Went Broke

Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

February 11, 2014

Hello again!

This Anthropologie basic is ideal for any layering junkie. I try to buy this tank in every color every time it comes on sale because I love it that much! The colors range from red to neon yellow. I included two of this season’s new colors below.

If you’re looking for some wardrobe basics to layer beneath those winter duds or a great summer time top to pair with those cute cut-off shorts, this is your tank.

Anthropologie Basic Layering Tank ($9)

Comfy In Cargo

February 11, 2014

Hello again, fashionable friends!

I love a comfortable outfit which is also effortlessly adorable. Skinny military-inspired pants are all the rage right now and can be appropriate for many a body type. For a casual, feminine take on an otherwise masculine trend, check out this fashionably frugal ensemble…

Hinge Textured Cardigan ($46)

ASOS Tank High Neck ($14)

Tiri Cargo Pants ($59)

Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

September 20, 2013

It’s a wonderful day to buy something designer…for $12.50. Seriously…this skirt gets an additional 50% discount at checkout which means that it is $12.50!

This fabulous pencil skirt by Calvin Klein has a classic structure and some trendy personality.

Go…buy…now.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Calvin Klein Exposed Zip Colorblock Pencil Skirt ($12.50)

Celebrity Inspiration: Miranda Kerr

September 19, 2013

Miranda Kerr is well known for having impeccable taste in clothes. She’s always well dressed and her picks are flattering in nearly every instance.

Today’s inspirational picture has been chosen in honor of fall and the cooler weather. The classic trench doubled with some easy to wear, casual pieces makes for a great on-the-go look. Keep makeup simple and hair understated with this look – even a cute topknot would do nicely.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Celebrity Inspiration: Miranda Kerr

The Look Alike Ensemble (>$225)

The Classic Cotton Trench Coat ($139)

Nautical Stripes Jumper ($21)

Light Wash Denim Jeggings ($29)

Leopard Flats ($26)

Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

September 19, 2013

Style this fun blazer with a black pencil skirt or fitted dress for a day at the office or pair it with a sequined mini and a fun tank for a night out. The blazer comes in two colors, ivory and pink. The airy structure and light weight fabric make this piece both comfortable and functional.

For $25, you might consider grabbing one in both colors!

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Rignor Chiffon Panel Blazer ($25)

Celebrity Inspiration: Eva Langoria

September 18, 2013

Leather leggings are going to make a leggy return this fall. They were a trendy favorite for popular celebrity, Eva Langoria, last fall and have been long time favorites of Kim Kardashian, Elle Macpherson, and Hillary Duff as well.

Here’s a look inspired by Eva Langoria that starts with the basic leather legging for a FABULOUS deal. The great thing about this investment item – it can be casual or really dressy. Style leather with a casual top to make them an edgy accessory or amp up your look with a white blazer and some crimson lipstick. Either way, have fun with them!

Since I’ve posted four or five black blazers that I highly recommend, we’re going to keep this celebrity inspiration simple and stick to the leather and the heels. Last week’s Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day: Jewelry would look great with this outfit too!

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Celebrity Inspiration: Eva Langoria’s Leather Leggings

Synthetic Leather Trousers ($59)

Michael Antonio’s Satin Heels ($49)

You’re always seeing celebs in great blazers that dress up or polish any look they choose to throw on. For example, add a little professional edge to a bohemian get up just like Jessica Alba always does. Or maybe dress up some deconstructed denim by adding the balancing structure of a blazer. Whatever your style is, there is a place for a great blazer.

Although blazer styles are as vast as the sea is wide, it’s a good idea to pick a few you like and mix it up a little now and then. This blazer is an amazing snag for just $53 on Asos. It doesn’t have wide lapels which means it’s easy to dress up OR down. The more open front will also leave long jewelry a bit of room to take the spotlight and it will also give a cute printed blouse a chance to shine a bit more than it would if there were a wider caller. The length is perfect and the sizing comes in both petite and regular. The linen blend will ensure that you don’t overheat when you’ve got on several layers and the neckline would be adorable with a colorful scarf. All in all, this one is a winner, folks.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

ASOS Linen Age Blazer ($53)

Link: http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Linen-Edge-to-Edge-Blazer/zv43g/?iid=2760414&SearchQuery=blazer&Rf-700=1000&Rf-800=-1,50&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black&mporgp=L0FTT1MvQVNPUy1MaW5lbi1FZGdlLXRvLUVkZ2UtQmxhemVyL1Byb2Qv

Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

September 16, 2013

So…here goes another fun outfit for less than $100. It’s not quite winter but certainly no longer summer which means that we have some transitioning wardrobes to maintain. I love this look because it is a transitional look made up of very seasonal pieces.

The tea length midi skirt is a huge trend right now and will keep those stems slightly warmer in the upcoming winter months. The top would be adorable tucked into the skirt and under a leather cropped jacket or tailored blazer. It is also warm weather appropriate on its own.

Add some edgy heels or sandals to give this look a bit of a punk vibe or keep it really feminine with some ballet flats or strappy heels.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Zara

Tear Drop Top T-Shirt ($35)

ASOS Full Midi Skirt ($64)

The Leather Jacket Trend

September 12, 2013

Celebrities and style gurus have taken an edgier approach to this season’s fashions. Although blazers are classic and still very much considered to be a wardrobe staple, leather jackets have become a close second to the more structured piece.

Leather can do several things for an outfit. Firstly, the texture can add visual appeal that you’d have a hard time finding with any other basic fabric type. By mixing feminine, more commonly used fabrics with a pop of leather texture, you’ve taken your classic look to a more modern place. Secondly, leather creates a whole new outfit character. Sounds strange, I know. Think about it though…if you saw someone wearing a midi pleated skirt with a well tailored blazer and a crisp, white blouse you’d probably think, “She looks very nice and is well put together.” If you see someone with the same skirt and blouse, however, you’ll think that same person is vogue, current, AND put together. Here’s an example…

Maybe the leather trend is appealing to you, but the $400 – $4000 price tag is not. For the leather jacket fashion huntress on a budget, check out my picks below for some great leather jackets each for less than $100.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

River Island Waterfall Front Leather Jacket

ASOS Limited Edition Studded Leather Jacket

RD Style Quilted Vegan Leather Jacket

Calvin Klein Moto Jacket

Rhyme Los Angeles Moto Tweed Jacket

Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

September 10, 2013

Looking for that perfectly neutral dress that goes with everything and transitions across all four seasons? I have found it!

Although this dress runs just a little large, it fits perfectly and, if you can’t size down, a small investment in some tailoring will have you in love in no time. For $44.99, this Ark & Co. Embossed Detail Dress in a feminine creme color is perfect for any trend you’re trying to nail. What’s not to love?

Just in case you needed some inspiration, I threw in some pieces that would look FABULOUS with this dress. Feel free to add some extra color, play with some textures and really make this piece shine.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Ark & Co. Embossed Detail Dress ($44.99)

What’s In My Makeup Bag…

September 5, 2013

My Make Up Bag Must Haves

Although I keep an extra drawer handy for those special occasion makeup items, but what you see above is everything I currently have in my makeup bag. I’ve included a list of the specific products below, but first I’d like to explain some of my day to day makeup choices.

Since this blog focuses on savvy shopping, you may be wondering why some of the items I’ve chosen are high end beauty items. Well, the answer is simple. It’s cheaper for me to splurge on one or two important items in order to save from having to spend money on repair items later on down the road. For example, cheap foundation makes me break out. Also, if I don’t splurge a little on my favorite setting spray (which lasts forever), then I find myself reapplying makeup multiple times throughout the day which will eventually waste more money than I spent.

As for my other products, I have a few quick tips and tricks for getting them for a good price. The only item excluded from my frugal purchases is the fabulous Kate Spade makeup bag which was actually a very generous birthday gift. I love it and, if you have the extra cash, I recommend this set.

Trick #1: Perfume samples from the counter at Nordstrom make a great replacement for the pricey full size versions. Also, they’re travel friendly and free!

Trick #2 and #3: Although I am madly in love with my Urban Decay Naked Palette, it can be hard to shell out $50 for a few basic eye shadows, right? Well, check out this site for a FABULOUS deal on this eye shadow product as well as the Bobby Brown brushes you see above. I bought all of these items here, they were delivered within a week and they are fabulous. Site: http://www.cheapmacosmetics.com/

Trick #4: I love the lip and brow products I have listed above. I use them all the time, but they too were gifts (thanks, Mom!). If you’re looking for something just as fabulous but slightly more affordable, I recommend checking out N.Y.X. brow set and ELF lipsticks. Both can be found at ULTA and, if you’re into coupons, check the Sunday paper for an ULTA cutout before you go.

Trick #5: Invest in an awesome foundation brush. The right foundation brush will make your foundation last so much longer just by blending and spreading the foundation more efficiently.

Trick #6: Check out MAC’s products at this site: http://www.cheapmacosmetics.com/. It’s the same site listed above and, although it doesn’t have everything, the MAC foundations are CRAZY cheap on it and are authentic. I recommend doing a bulk shopping trip with a friend just so that you can split the expensive shipping ($25). I got over $420 worth of makeup for just under $65 (and that’s including shipping).

Trick #7: Watch YouTube videos to learn how to properly apply each product. You might be wasting some products because you didn’t know how to apply other products. I highly recommend checking out the following two YouTube channels for some great tips:

Bobbi Brown
Lisa Eldridge

So…I hope this helps you! Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Pin-spiration: Black & Crystal

September 5, 2013

Minimalist ensembles and statement accessories are everywhere right now and I must’ve spotted this look on Pinterest a million times.

While this girl’s look is rumored to be priced well over $300, I’ve managed to pull together the pieces for less than half of that.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Pin-spiration:

Look Alikes:

Silk Layered Black Top ($49.90)

Classic Black Pants ($29)

Zara Statement Necklace ($49)

Textured Clutch ($23)

Black Pumps ($30)

Looking lovely underneath…

September 5, 2013

Good morning, friends!

Last Call by Neiman Marcus is running a fantastic sale on all things designer right now. Despite my excitement, $400 ensembles are still not in my budget just yet, but great deals on awesome lingerie is.

After all, isn’t one of the greatest things about being girls that we get to wear pretty, lacey things?

My favorite find so far today has to be the Hanky Panky separates that are on amazing discounts. Neiman Marcus is offering an additional 30% everything even if it’s already marked down!

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Hanky Panky Crossover Bralette ($28 instead of $56!)

Hanky Panky Two Tone Lace Thong ($9.80 isntead of $20)

Fall Fashion Trends

September 4, 2013

Fall fashions are hitting magazines and blogs everywhere as designers roll out their most outrageous runway looks. Trends from Summer 2013 fade away as neon colors and feminine prints transition to jewel tones and masculine patterns.

Want to know how to have your closet ready for this season’s cold weather looks? Check out my picks for the Top 10 Fall Wardrobe Staples.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

The Biker Jacket

This trend is HUGE right now! If you’re going to opt for the masculinity of a leather jacket, be sure to complement its jagged edges with some flirty details. Pair the piece with a great floral pencil skirt of some jewel toned heels to add some feminine flare and keep on trend with this fall’s most popular runway item.

Jewel Tones

Jewel tones are everywhere! The problem with this trend can be figuring out how to keep it modern. I love jewel tones, but I recommend keeping them current by putting them in unexpected places or pairing them with something bright to balance the almost too classic nature of these tones. Throw in some great yellow heels with that emerald green skirt or maybe add an edgy leather jacket to modernize those mustard trousers.

Bright Shoes

This trend has carried over from summer, but the tones have changed slightly. Shoes are the best and most versatile accessory for any outfit. I love the idea of taking an otherwise bland outfit and adding a mustard shoe (also in keeping with the jewel tone trend) or a rich red pump to take everything to the next level. Besides, no matter how many holiday pounds we accidentally put on, our shoes will never let us down!

The Classic White Button Up

This top will be in every wardrobe staple feature for every season…FOREVER. Classic white button up tops go under things, over things, by themselves and even tied in a knot around your waist. Always have at least two in your closet and don’t be afraid to be adventurous with how you choose to style it. Also, this style goes perfectly with either the popular masculine looks for this fall or with a glitzy, girly necklace for the ultra feminine looks we’re seeing.

Statement Jewelry

This trend, like the white button up, has been around for a while. This fall’s runway version of it, however, has taken statement jewelry to a whole new level. Pair extremely understate ensembles with over the top feminine pieces. The more sparkly, the better. Check out this one by Zara:

Plaid

Can you believe it? Plaid has made its comeback! Everything from Scottish inspired tops to plaid suits were seen strutting the runway this season and, ya know what, I LOVE IT! If you choose to indulge in this season trend, don’t go overboard with the accessories and keep an organized color scheme to help maintain your put together appearance. We want feminine and polished – not punk rocker with a mohawk from the early 90s.

The Structured Jacket

This trend has been around for a long time and will probably always be around. I recommend splurging on a jacket you love and just planning on keeping it around for years to come. My favorites come from Zara.

Punch of Color Purses

So let’s say you go with a monochrome look for fall (which is huge right now)…how can you dress it up? Add the perfect purse. I love the idea of pairing a blue purse with an otherwise all black ensemble or picking a green clutch to go with those creme styles. Have fun with this accessory!

Metallic Details

This trend might be a little edgy for some of you more conservative shoppers, but it’s a fun trend to play with. If you’re not ready for some metallic details on your coat, maybe find some shoes with a great metallic toe. Play with monotone metals for your jewelry or add a metallic headband for a little pizzaz.

The Bow

You heard me, gals. Bows are everywhere! I sometimes have a hard time with this trend just because it is just SO reminiscent of my outfits from my early, early childhood. I’m discovering, however, that bows are feminine, but that they can be very vogue. I’m starting with my shoes, but I also love the idea of adding them to structured pieces like a great jacket or hat. No matter where you decide to put them though, please do NOT tie your hair into a bow. Lady Gaga should not be a trend setter and I strongly advise against mimicking her fashion choices (Moms of the world unite! Haha).

In addition to some year round basics such as a fabulous scarf, great layering pieces and some classic riding boots, the pieces listed about should have you on trend for Fall 2013.

Enjoy!

Pin-spiration: Nautical Nancy

September 4, 2013

I see this Pin all over the place, but I know that it can sometimes be difficult to find the perfect nautical pieces for a decent price point.

Today’s pin-spiration look can be achieved all for less than $150. All of the pieces are evergreen pieces too which means that they can be mixed, matched and worn forever without fear of them losing their stylish elements.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Pin-spiration Pic: Nautical Nancy

Look Alike Pieces:

Classic Nautical Tee ($18)

Asos Linen Midi Skirt ($24)

Faux Frames ($10)

Classic Brown Belt ($15)

Nordstrom Classic Fedora ($50)

Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

September 4, 2013

Today’s Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day is perfect for a day at the office and then a fun night out. Just switch up your accessories if you want to add a bit more pizzaz.

The Evangeline Peplum Top is perfectly flattering for the waistline and has a touch of whimsy that makes the structured pencil skirt appear slightly more feminine. I love the idea of adding some gold accessories to play up the girly factor, but consider adding a clutch with some metallic detail just to add a little bit of edgy interest. A pair of great black pumps could work with this along with any pair of flats or strappy sandals in black or gold. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you could even try a great pair of lavender heels to play off of the pattern on the top.

So…for $100, this Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day is an awesome addition to any wardrobe.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Evangeline Peplum Top ($49)

Fitted Pencil Skirt ($25)

Accessories ($26 total)

Pinspiration: Color

September 4, 2013

This last weekend, my boyfriend and I visited his hometown in California. One night for dinner, his mom wore this adorable dress full of exciting color. I loved it! I also realized that my wardrobe was surprisingly monotone with all of the black, red, white and camel colors that I like to use for basics. So…with many thanks to Walker’s mom…this week’s Pinspiration is COLOR!

A word of caution to those colorful fashionistas out there…don’t go too far past your comfort zone. Mixing too many trends or splashing together too many color schemes can come out more like Mimi from the Drew Carrey show than stylish ensemble. Pick a scheme and go with it. Add some extra interest by mixing textures like the outfit below. Also, if you’re going for a daringly colorful look, think about keeping your hair, makeup and accessories pretty minimalist.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Red Trousers ($59.00)

Floral Polka Dot Combination Top ($25.90)

Cobalt Blue Flats

Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

September 3, 2013

Looking for some seasonless styles that can transition your summer wardrobe to fall? Well, today’s two AWESOME deals will not only have you ready for the changing seasons, but have you channeling Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly any day of the year!

Pointed Flat Shoes ($35.90)

Two Tone Bowling Bag ($79.90)

Pin-spiration

August 28, 2013

This post is meant for all of you savvy Pinterest addicts out there. I, like you, love to browse Pinterest, it’s many inspirational trends and fun finds. So…in addition to my celebrity trend look alikes, I will occasionally pull a trending ensemble from Pinterest and put together a look alike for a fraction of the cost of the original. This whole outfit was originally thousands of dollars, but you can get the entire outfit PLUS all of the accessories for less than $200.

Keep in mind that the minimalism of this outfit with an added punch of blue is what keeps this classic style flowing and brilliant. Style hair casually to play down the structured jacket and add a smoky eye for a touchy of mystery.

Enjoy, fashionable friends!

Today’s Pin-spiration: