Tag Archives: women

Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

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)

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ASOS Full Midi Skirt ($64)

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Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day: Jewelry

Have you scoured the ends of the internet shopping world trying to find the PERFECT layering accessories that go with practically EVERYTHING?

Search no more. I have found some fantastic accessories for amazing prices in a pretty unlikely place. Just click on the pictures to go to each piece on the Etsy website. Every piece is less than $35 and each individual piece would go fabulously with any other item posted.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Layering Necklaces from Etsy

Layering Matte Gold Bar Pendant ($27)

Dainty Beaded Satellite Chain ($24)

Apatite Raw Crystal Necklace ($32)

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Set of 3 14K Gold Stacking Rings ($25)

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The Leather Jacket Trend

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…

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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

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ASOS Limited Edition Studded Leather Jacket

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RD Style Quilted Vegan Leather Jacket

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Calvin Klein Moto Jacket

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Rhyme Los Angeles Moto Tweed Jacket

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Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

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)

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Check it out…

In addition to the many important updates on current events (which I hope you’re paying attention to), Yahoo’s homepage had a very good article relating to women and modeling. I’m sure just about everyone that visits this site has, at some point, seen or heard of Victoria’s Secret model, Doutzen Kroes. What you might not know is that she is positioning herself as an advocate for positive body image campaigns. She’s also 28, has had babies and doesn’t fit into everything she tries on.

What?! I know what you’re thinking…”A perfect body NOT looking good in everything??!” Well, I guess that means that we all have what we have to work with and should be grateful for what makes each of us beautiful in our own way.

The other thing I love about this article…Krous explains what it is that keeps her in modeling shape. Although great genes are helpful, you are responsible for being the best version of yourself. A thoughtful diet and a commitment to health motivated exercise can keep you feeling great and, well, help defy gravity as you inch on in years. Going overboard in any direction can be damaging, but discovering a healthy balance between proper nutrition and movement is the key to both feeling and looking your best. Just like Krous goes on to explain as well, keep in mind that your habits often times become the habits of your children. How do you want them to see themselves and live their lives? Do you want to teach them to find balance? Then you have to find it for yourself. 

Check out this article and maybe rethink what it is that makes you beautiful or be inspired by one of the “beautiful” people that has a body with flaws just like anyone else. 

Doutzen Kroes, Victoria’s Secret Model, Says No Size Zero

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Photo Credit: Yahoo! Images (Click Link or Photo Above For Full Article)

What’s In My Makeup Bag…

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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

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:

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Look Alikes:

Silk Layered Black Top ($49.90)

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Classic Black Pants ($29)

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Zara Statement Necklace ($49)

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Textured Clutch ($23)

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Black Pumps ($30)

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Looking lovely underneath…

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!)

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

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Fall Fashion Trends

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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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:

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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).

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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

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

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Look Alike Pieces:

Classic Nautical Tee ($18)

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Asos Linen Midi Skirt ($24)

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Faux Frames ($10)

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Classic Brown Belt ($15)

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Nordstrom Classic Fedora ($50)

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Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

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)

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Fitted Pencil Skirt ($25)

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Accessories ($26 total)

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Pinspiration: Color

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!

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Red Trousers ($59.00)

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Floral Polka Dot Combination Top ($25.90)

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Cobalt Blue Flats

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Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

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)

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Two Tone Bowling Bag ($79.90)

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Pin-spiration

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:

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Look Alikes:

ASOS Wide Leg Pant ($20.25)

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ZARA Racer Back Tank ($7.90)

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Aryn K. Zip Pocket Blazer ($49.97)

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ASOS Metal Keeper Super Skinny Waist Belt ($10.13)

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New Look Madrid Metal Plate Croc Bag ($26.98)

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New Look EC Ankle Strap Court Shoe ($33.74)

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Nordstrom Classic ‘Seasonless’ Slouchy Knit Cap ($35.00)

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Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day (#2)

Because I’ve been MIA for so long, I’ve decided to post TWO Fab & Frugal Deals. This second deal is an entire outfit and, as always, totals less than $100.

Although we’re all looking forward to fall, we still have a full 5 days until Labor Day which means that we should wear the heck out of our white summer clothes until then. Am I right?

Well, many of these items can be transitioned into fall which is why they’re part of today’s deal. Pair the tops with some shorts to keep it on trend for the end of summer or throw on some fantastic black pants and a cardi for a fall tone down. I went with something super feminine to wrap up the holiday weekend just because most of the fall styles are really edgy and dramatic. Enjoy!

Girls T from Zara ($19.90)

http://www.zara.com/us/en/trf/t-shirts/girls-t-shirt-c269214p1382535.html

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Crossover Jacquard Side Zip Skirt ($39.99)

http://www.zara.com/us/en/trf/skirts-c269213.html#product=1294356&viewMode=two

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Zara Patent Ballerina Flat ($29.90)

http://www.zara.com/us/en/trf/shoes/patent-ballerina-c269216p1293366.html

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Tinley Road Pave Circle Stone Earring Studs ($7.97)

http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=84318&vid=1&pid=426501002

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Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

Today’s Fab & Frugal Deal looks forward to fall and the cooler weather that accompanies the change of scenery.

This coat is all things classically fabulous and it is worth the splurge. PLUS…Zara always offers free shipping and free returns.

Zara Basic Coat in Whisky ($99)

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Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

I love the elegance of simplicity. The art of coordinating a wardrobe at one with itself can sometimes be overwhelming, but choosing classic shapes and complementary color pallets can make it so much easier.

I love the shape of this lovely white top. The fabric is light and airy and it complements the female figure so nicely. It creates interest without exposing too much skin. The bottoms add an element of intrigue via their shimmery brocade print but keep a structured form that elongates the legs and continues the theme of simple elegance. Both of these pieces are extremely well made and fit true to size. I love them together and I think you will too.

So, without further ado, I present today’s Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day!

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Wilfred Nouvelle Blouse ($34.99)

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Babaton ALVIN Shorts ($39.99)

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Gold Rose Bracelet ($16.99)

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Celebrity Inspiration – Zooey Deschanel

Everyone loves the “girl next door look” that Zooey Deschanel has indeed perfected. Her ultrafeminine vintage hairstyles and chic pin up girl looks have got America screaming for styles that invoke innocence and flirtaciousness (yes, I know I made that word up).

I feel like Zooey Deschanel’s styles typically carry a few key elements. Firstly, she’s in love with a peterpan collar. Secondly, she almost always wears opaque tights under her shorts and skirts. Finally, she has a habit of sticking to a black, navy, red and ivory color pallet. Do I love all of these things? Absolutely!

Achieve Zooey’s look for much less than $100 and feel like a million bucks. I love the modesty of this look and how, despite it’s lack of cleavage or thigh, it is completely feminine and sexy.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Celebrity Inspiration: Zooey Deschanel

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Celebrity Steals

Wilfred Opera Blouse ($39.99)

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Babaton Rudy Shorts ($40.00)

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ASOS 80 Denier Black Tights ($9.33)

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Entire Celebrity Steal: $89.32!!!

Complete the Look Add-Ons

Regal Black Platform Shoes ($33.92)

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Skinny Plait Waist Belt ($10.18)

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ASOS Mini Tote Bag ($29.70)

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Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

This outfit is going to blow your mind. I love all of the pieces AND they are pretty high quality. Fashionable on a budget? Yes, puh-lease!

Ok, so the entire outfit comes to a grand total of $99.45. That’s a blazer, a fantastic designer tank (closet staple), some trendy printed pants and a cute stackable ring set all for LESS than $100. 

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

ASOS Cropped Blazer ($30.55)

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MINKPINK Rough and Tumble Tunic Tank ($27.95)

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Living Doll Bolt Print Slouch Pant ($37.95)

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4 Pack Stack Rings ($3.00)

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Looking Lovely…Underneath

On my bad days, I have this thing where I pick out some super cute undies (matching, of course) that make me feel 100% better. It’s like me own little fabulous secret. Quality lingerie can be hard to come by when you’re on a budget. Matching sets often cost anywhere from $60 – $300 when you’re looking for great fabric and a good fit. The cheapo stuff I’ll occasionally grab from the Victoria Secret sale bin or maybe the Target undie aisle doesn’t count for the days I’m talking about – I’m talking about a lingerie set you keep on the ready. It can be a base layer for a big date or, if you’re like me, the secret weapon to a little pick-me-up on a rough morning full of self-conscious thoughts.

This deal is a good one. Get a great bra and some super sexy panties for $55.94 altogether! I love this set – it’s very pin-up girl meets modern day attorney.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Pleasure State White Label Simple Joy Set ($55.94)

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Feminine Find: Blush Pink Romper

I love this soft pink romper which features a lace opening in the back. It’s great for these sweltering summer months because of the light fabric and open back, but it also adds a touch of femininity to what sometimes seems like a childish piece. 

Because I love rompers so much (less time finding TWO pieces to put together), I have included a second fashionable find. The ASOS romper adds a little more fabric for the more modest gal and even gives the romper a more professional edge. 

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

ASTR Lace Back Romper ($70.00)

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ASOS Playsuit ($76.36)

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Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

Today’s Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day comes to a grand total of $96.36! Check out this fantastic knit wrap dress from Tinley Road and the limitless styling possibilities that go along with it! I cannot tell you how much I love this piece.

I chose to pair the wrap dress with a large envelope clutch and some gold accessories. It could be fun any number of ways, but feel free to share your comments or thoughts and maybe send pictures of how YOU chose to style it.

Happy shopping, fashionable friends!

Tinley Road Knit Wrap Dress ($49.00 – $59.00)

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ASOS Chunky Lock Portfolio Envelope Clutch ($16.97)

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ASOS Gathered Necklace ($20.36)

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Celebrity Inspiration: Kate Middleton

With all the buzz about the royal baby’s expected arrival, it only seemed appropriate to use Kate Middleton for a Celebrity Inspiration post.

I love Kate’s easy style that could work its way into anyone’s life and still be totally functional. She is reinstating elegance into the world of fashion and successfully giving low key designers a following of royal proportions.

I hope you enjoy this look and I look forward to hearing from you!

Celebrity Inspiration: Kate Middleton

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Inspiration Look Alikes

Tahari ‘Jenna’ Peplum Walking Coat ($82.90)

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New Look Ariel Sleek Envelope Clutch ($13.56)

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Asos 120 Denier Black Tights ($9.33)

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Look Alike Total: $105.79

Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day

Good morning, fashionable friends!

Today’s Fab & Frugal Deal of the Day features an adorable Tinley Road dress with a wildly feminine print and touches of sheer paneling to add a hint of sexy detail. I love this dress that could transition seamlessly between a day at the office and a night out with friends. Pair this cute number with some flats and a top knot and you’ve got yourself a comfy day out on the town. The possibilities are endless and the price is just right. At $54.99, this piece is a steal. 

Happy shopping!

Tinley Road Printed Inset Mini Dress

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Chanel Look Alikes?

Another fabulously frugal deal is coming your way…

I love these Chanel look alike sunglasses from the FreePeople website. Sunglasses are a great affordable accessory and can add an extra edge to any outfit.

Enjoy!

Free People Lady Luck Sunglasses ($9.95)

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