My mom recently asked me why so many clothes have horizontal stripes and not vertical ones, since supposedly the former has a widening effect and the latter is slimming.

After all, all the fashion magazines and style shows keep repeating the same mantra, “Create vertical lines.”

Well, here’s the answer and how you can make it work for you.

Ever feel like the climate where you live keeps you from wearing what you want?

My current obsession with rain boots started in September with these floral rain boots, but I figured that I wouldn’t have much use for them living here in the sunshine state. Last month, I wanted to move to Seattle when I saw these cheery daisy boots. And just last week, my resistance was almost cracked by these super sassy cherry rain…

Dresses like this are why I’m in love with the green trend. It’s a shade that looks gorgeous, whatever your skin tone.

The dress itself is feminine, flirty, and a touch whimsical with that lovely braided bodice. It’s the perfect spring party dress and it’s just $34.50.

Still looking for an L.B.D.? You’re in luck; this dress is also available in black.

Sizes XS-XL available; ships worldwide.

Like the trench coat, the peacoat was originally worn by men in the military but now more likely to be worn by us women who appreciate it for its clean lines. Fortunately, guys don’t seem to mind.

This wool peacoat from dEliA*s is a lovely example of a peacoat that is classic but feminine, since it’s designed to flatter our curvier figures.

It’s an easy choice when you want a practical but stylish coat. The hardest part is…

Ever notice how some women can make casual look effortlessly stylish? The key is to put as much thought into casual purchases as you would when shopping for formal wear.

For example, jeans and sneakers might go together like cheese and macaroni, but that doesn’t mean that sneakers are the only casual option. Tuck those skinny jeans into these blue suede boots for a fun look that’s just as comfy.

And if you’re not as crazy about the…

While I hesitate to call any piece of clothing a “must have”, the little black dress is iconic for a reason. It’s slimming, powerful, and easily accessorized — not to mention sexy. It always amazes me, though, how designers can take something so simple and do so much with details.

Here are five bargain LBDs to illustrate that point.

For starters, here’s a simple ponte dress from Barrie Pace. The simple design, modest neckline, and knit material…

Look at this fabulous sateen trench coat that I found at Macy’s! Since the store didn’t have my size, I went searching for it online and voil

Some of the best recent reads from around the web.

Lazy Sunday?
You’re taking the day off work, but you don’t have to take the day off style. The WhoWhatWear ladies workshop some comfortable yet chic weekend looks.

Women in Power: finding balance in the wardrobe
The Wall Street Journal asks if the intense scrutiny of women leaders’ style reflects our difficulty in coming to terms with women in positions of real authority.

The rise of the non-label and

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As much as I love colorful shoes, I have about half a dozen pairs of black heels. Why? Because it’s hard to go wrong with black and yet each pair adds something a bit different to an outfit.

Take these gorgeous heels from Kenneth Cole, for example. The delicate ankle strap, slim heel, and black velvet are all pretty feminine details that make it a great pair to soften the look of power suit or to…

The Bargain Queens are honoured to have been nominated in the Fabbies fashion and lifestyle blog awards! We’re up for the best shopping blog, so we’d love it if you could take a minute to cast your vote for us. Thank you!