By Florida's Bargain Queen, Meg. April 23, 2008. Accessories, Bargains, Clothing, Fashion, Jewelry, Under $100, Under $200, Under $50
There’s one area where fairy tale princesses and I agree; Special occasions call for glamorous accessories. And what could be more glam than wearing a dazzling tiara?
This rhinestone and silver plate tiara is perfect for a girl’s quiceanera or prom, but is also a fabulous alternative to a veil for the modern bride who wants to show that fairy tales do come true.
At just $19.99, it’s also a lot cheaper than most of the bridal veils you’ll come across, and much more likely to be reworn. Trust me, wearing a tiara can become highly addictive. You may soon find yourself looking for any excuse to wear it.
(Pssssst, to all the men out there: a tiara can make a really romantic gift.)
By Florida's Bargain Queen, Meg. February 24, 2008. Accessories, Bargains, Clothing, Fashion, Under $100, Under $20, Under $200, Under $50
Silk scarves are a great accessory for spring. They’re an incredibly easy way to add color and interest to an otherwise basic outfit. I know, I’ve been wearing them a lot lately — and having lots of fun doing so.
There are dozens of ways to wear a scarf, but my favorite right now has got to be the French twist. It’s remarkably simple and you can find the instructions for that and some other popular scarf knots here.
If you’re a regular reader, you know that I love using trendy accessories to update outfits. Since florals are big this season, why not try them out on a silk scarf? It’s a look that’s both of the moment and yet very classic.
Here are three floral silk scarves to get you started:
All ship worldwide from Silk Charm. Shipping to the U.S. is free if you spend $50 or more on Silk Charm items.
And don’t forget about this hummingbird brooch! It would make a beautiful and fitting addition to any of those scarves.
By Florida's Bargain Queen, Meg. February 15, 2008. Accessories, Bargains, Beauty, Clothing, Fashion, Hair, Under $10, Under $100, Under $20, Under $200
Whether or not you’re going to San Francisco, try wearing a flower in your hair this spring for an unexpected pop of color.
It’s an inexpensive alternative to this season’s trendy floral prints if you’re looking to incorporate florals into your spring wardrobe — and why not, they’re feminine and fun.
Torrid.com has several lovely flower hair clips for just $9! Among others, I particularly like this yellow rose clip
and
this one in red.
For $35, you can get one of these stunning orchid hair clips from Karin’s Garden. While that may seem a little pricey for a hair clip, it’s a very reasonable price for an accessory that will add so much pizazz to so many outfits year after year.
All the clips featured ship internationally.
By Florida's Bargain Queen, Meg. February 6, 2008. Accessories, Bargains, Clothing, Fashion, Under $100, Under $20, Under $200
If it’s cold where you are or if it’s about to be, then no doubt you can appreciate these convertible mittens
.
I have few glove days left here in Florida this year which is sad because these convertible mittens are not just practical, they’re super cute.
They’re available in gray, ivory, and red. Each pair is just $12.50 and they ship worldwide.
By Florida's Bargain Queen, Meg. February 1, 2008. Accessories, Advice, Bags, Bargains, Bracelets, Clothing, Dresses, Earrings, Fashion, Flats, Handbags, Heels, Jewelry, Necklaces, News, Plus-size, Shoes, Shopping, Style, Sweaters, Tops, Under $10, Under $100, Under $20, Under $200, Under $50
Green may be the top color of the season, but orange is a close second and is a great color to add some real pop to your wardrobe.
Orange is generally harder to wear than green, but don’t let that stop you. If you love orange but think that it doesn’t love you, check out How to work difficult colors into your wardrobe. (Hint: Accessories, accessories, accessories!) And for lots of orange inspiration, take a look at Kasmira’s outfits that include orange at What I Wore Today.
If orange is a flattering color on you, then now is the time to stock up because it’s rare that you’ll see this much of it.
Now, onto the bargains!
Accessories
Orange accessories make for a great, unexpected pop of color that plays remarkably well with other colors like blues and greens. It works great with any neutral, but it really shines when paired with navy.
Bags
An easy way to play with orange is with this orange patent leather clutch from BCBG MAX AZRIA that was recently featured in our post on the ongoing clutch trend. At 63% off the original price of $198, it’s a steal — just $71.98 for a piece that’s classic yet trendy and from a well known label. It’s also available in parfait and celadon.
This patent leather Jet Set satchel from Michael Kors is similarly discounted. It’s now $79.98, down from $198. It’s also available in hot pink, another popular color right now.
If you’re looking for a bag with more room, then check out this alligator embossed leather tote bag from Muska Milano. It’s now $389 — 54% off the original price of $850. It comes in a variety of colors and ships free to the U.S.
Shoes
Orange shoes are even harder to find than green ones in my experience, but leave it to Prada to solve the color conundrum on both fronts. These peep toe flats from Prada are available in both orange and green with yellow trim. Originally over $300, they’re now on sale for $185. Plus they ship worldwide!
Too steep for your wallet? Don’t worry, Isaac Mizrahi has done it again — combining classic and trendy at an unbelievable price. These orange Georgina suede bow slides are now on clearances for just $6.24!
Looking for something really different but still cute? Then take a look at these orange Rain Dance rain shoes from Jeffrey Campbell. They’re $34.95 and ship worldwide.
Don’t underestimate the power of some orange sneakers like these orange running shoes from Adidas. I’m seen similar pairs worn with sporty casual skirts and it works amazingly well. Listed at $99.95, they’re now $49.99 - $50.89 and available in sizes 5-12.
My final shoe pick is this pair of orange wedge sandals by Easy Spirit. They’d look lovely with a flirty spring skirt and they’re also available in natural and black. They’re now on sale for $46.99, down from $84.95.
Jewelry
Jewelry is yet another place where you probably don’t see a lot of orange, but it can be absolutely fabulous.
For example, check out this beaded bangle cuff bracelet from Fair Trade Gifts. It’s just $11.95.
For $20, you can get this entire set of silver and simulated orange cats eye beaded jewelry. It includes earrings, a bracelet, and a necklace. It’s half off the original price and it ships worldwide!
For $9.99, you can also get this orange cats eye bracelet, on sale from $21.99. It also ships worldwide.
Other Accessories
Looking for a statement watch? This orange textile bracelet watch from Christian Dior will definitely grab attention. It’s listed for $650 but now $202 and eligible for Amazon’s free Super Saver Shipping.
And if you want a lot of orange for not a lot of green, check out this 100% pashmina wrap for $17.95. It ships worldwide.
Clothing
If orange and your complexion get along, then stock up now on orange clothing. You’ll be glad you did in seasons to come when the color choices aren’t so bright.
This 100% cashmere sweater from Catherine Malandrino is absolutely gorgeous, not to mention luxurious. Originally $445, it’s now on sale for $222.50. It’s available in sizes P, M, and L, and it ships worldwide. And it’s also available in black!
If you’re a plus-size gal, then check out this fauxmono knit top from Mossimo. It’s “lava” orange and smokin’. It’s now $11.89 and available in sizes 16W-26W.
If you like the sheer trend, then you’ll probably love this sheer peach camisole. It’s a sweet piece and is now $34.99, down from the list price of $110. It’s available in sizes S-L.
Finally, for the die-hard orange lovers, there’s this sexy Julianna drape dress from Guess. And for those that aren’t, it’s also available in black. It’s $39.50 and available in sizes X-small to X-large.
How do you do orange?
Can you wear orange effortlessly or do you have to work to get it into your wardrobe? Or have you left this color out of your wardrobe altogether?
By Florida's Bargain Queen, Meg. January 22, 2008. Accessories, Advice, Bags, Bargains, Bracelets, Clothing, Dresses, Fashion, Handbags, Heels, Jewelry, News, Shoes, Shopping, Style, Sweaters, Tops, Under $100, Under $20, Under $200, Under $50
According to Angie at YouLookFab, the hottest color of the season is going to be green, followed by orange.
Wearing more green was actually one of my New Year’s resolutions, because it’s a lovely color that is underused in my wardrobe and many others’.
Fortunately, green is generally an easy color to wear. While yellow greens like lime green can make some people look sallow, dark greens like hunter green don’t have the same effect. If you’re still longing for lime, rest assured that anyone can wear yellow greens if they know how to work difficult colors in your wardrobe.
With that in mind, here are some green bargains that will have your friends equally green.
Accessories
An easy way to incorporate any color into your wardrobe is through accessories since you can get more use out of them per week than clothing and accessories usually last a lot longer.
Shoes
Nice green shoes are hard to find, but I’ve found three pairs.
These Hasper mesh peep toe pumps from Jessica Simpson are available in three colors, including a lovely kelly green. They’re available in sizes 5.5-11 and vary in price from $55.27 to $79.99.
These Naughty Monkey Candyland pumps are equally fun in a white and green floral design. They’re available in sizes 6-10 and are also available in black/white and red/white. They vary in price from $72.47 - $74.95.
If you want shoes that really stand out, then check out these Alanie pumps from Chinese Laundry. While also available in white and yellow, the green is particularly fun because the fish scale texture of the leather makes them look like dragon skin. They’re available in sizes 6-10, for $79.95 - $89.95.
Jewelry
This wavy aventurine bracelet is a neat piece that is beautiful, too. It’s just $18.95 and ships worldwide.
Or if you want something more classic, take a look at this sterling silver bracelet made with green Milano glass Swarovski crystal. It’s on sale for 50% and is now just $28.99. Plus it also ships worldwide.
Bags
With clutches so popular nowadays, why not go with a green clutch like this Sasha leather wristlet clutch from Via Spiga. The hunter green is lovely, though it is also available in black and grey. It’s now just $69.99, down from $120.
Of course, you can’t fit a laptop in a clutch, so take a look at this gorgeous satin brocade laptop bag from Mango Tango. It’s a refreshing alternative to all those boring black laptop bags and it’s just $84.
Clothes
Looking to get into more green?
Tops
This green long-sleeve turtleneck from Mossimo is now just $6.29. It’s available in sizes X-small to XX-large in juniors.
If your complexion can handle a nice yellow-green, go ahead and enjoy this silk trapunto stitch blouse from INC International Concepts. It’s on sale for $38.81, down from $69. It’s available in sizes 2-8.
Dresses
Green also makes a wonderful color for dresses. I know because I have one that wear all the time.
This jersey wrap dress from BCBG Max Azria would make lovely dress for day and night whether you get the forest green or the navy. It’s $108, 40% off the list price of $180, and it’s available in sizes X-small to large.
Of course, green works great with other colors, as evident in this charmeuse, flutter-sleeve dress in a green and aqua print. It’s only available in sizes 7-11, but it’s on sale for $13.99.
Going green
Green isn’t just a trendy color this season, it’s also a lifestyle trend that’s catching on thanks in part to products that make it easier to help the planet. So, if you haven’t already, make sure to check out my recent post on eco-friendly shopping bags.
As you can see, I’m excited by all the green available this season, but how do you feel about its rise to trendiness? How do you wear green most often?
By Florida's Bargain Queen, Meg. January 11, 2008. Accessories, Advice, Bargains, Clothing, Flats, News, Pants, Plus-size, Shoes, Shopping, Style, Tops, Under $100, Under $20, Under $200, Under $50
If you’re like most people, one of your New Year’s resolutions was to exercise more. It’s a worthy goal, but finding the motivation can be tough, especially if you don’t feel so fabulous in your workout gear.
While it might be tempting to just pull on some old, faded sweats, it’s important to remember that a fabulous workout outfit can be powerful motivation. Therefore, shop for gym clothes like you would your other clothes, paying close attention to fit, style, and quality — especially to quality since they’ll get a lot of beating and washing.
Start with the perfect pants
Fortunately, these yoga pants from Fit Couture excel in all three ways. They’re available in three lengths in four sizes, and the fold-over waistband will give you the perfect rise whether you’re running or flexing. Plus, they’re a flattering bootcut in ultra-slimming black. They even come with glowing reviews and ship worldwide. At $49, they’re darn near perfect.
Top it off right
Now, what do you pair with such great pants? Baggy t-shirts are a perfectly viable workout choice, but more form fitting cami tops can help you keep an eye on your form, and they’ll never get in your way no matter what way you move.
This camisole workout top from A&E designs has adjustable straps and even a built-in bra. It comes in sizes small to XX-large in a variety of colors for just $15.99, and it also ships internationally.
And since it’s still winter here in the northern hemisphere, don’t forget to take a light jacket with you for your morning jog. This one is stylish enough to wear around town, but has all the features of a great running jacket, like knit cuffs to keep out the cold and waterproof material to keep that morning fog from getting through. It’s 58% off, down to $41.99 from the list price of $100.
Need something more substantial? Then check out this running jacket from New Balance, available in navy, zesty lime and cherry for $99.95.
Get the right support
Of course, built-in bras are often not enough for us busty gals. Having the right sports bra is essential to keep comfortable, but comfort doesn’t have to be the only consideration. While there isn’t much use for white, cup-less sports bras outside of the gym, a sports bra in nude with separate cups can be worn elsewhere just as easily without the risk of the dreaded uni-boob.
That’s why you’ll love this Lunaire Coolmax sports bra. It’s available in sizes 32C to 46DDD in three colors: black, white, and nude. Buy two, and you may be eligible for free shipping (see the product page for more details).
Manolos never felt this good
We gals sacrifice a lot for fashion. Just ask our feet. However, comfortable shoes are a must at the gym — unless you want to stop early on account of sore feet and legs.
Fortunately, you can give your feet a break without sacrificing style in these ASICS running shoes. They come in a wide variety of colors in sizes 5-13 — and they’re even available in different widths! The reviews are great, and they’re on sale for $124.99.
Always have the perfect bag
Now you have the perfect clothes and the perfect shoes, so what’s next? The perfect bag of course!
This brown, leather-trimmed linen bag from Crescent Moon is simple but stunning. It makes a great everyday bag and is large enough to carry your everyday essentials. Here’s what makes is really special, though: loosen the side straps and you can use them to carry your yoga mat, too! How ingenious! It’s currently down to $99 from $129.99 and it ships to the U.S. and Canada.
If you’re looking for a dedicated yoga/gym bag, then check out this yoga mat bag with plenty of room to store your mat, a change of clothes, your water bottle, and other personal items. It comes in three colors, each just $39.95, or 43% off the list price of $69.99. Plus it comes with a mat at no additional charge! And if you’re wondering how good that mat is, our editor Kimba has been using the same setup for some time and says, “the mat has been sturdy and high enough quality to stand up to a vinyasa practice with lots of jumpbacks”.
If you find yourself in need of more inspiration, though, check out this Gaiam Earth Meets Sky print yoga mat. With this mat, you’ll have a good view even when doing downward facing dog. It’s now just $21.99, and is eligible for Amazon’s Super Saver Shipping.
Other fabulous exercise accessories
For the gals that love their accessories, here are some that will help boost your workout. Both the Omron digital pedometer ($19.82) and the Omron heart rate monitor ($32.29) got excellent reviews. Both are also eligible for Amazon’s Super Save Shipping.
Finally, here’s a great — if not must have — accessory for the serious outdoors women: a Camelbak hydration pack. Now, having a camel hump might not be fashionable, but neither is dehydration. This pack holds 70 ounces and is specially designed to fit a woman’s body comfortably. It’s on sale for $39.99 and is available in both ruby red and sky blue. It ships to the U.S. and Canada.
How do you stay motivated?
Of course, fabulous clothes and accessories are just one way to stay motivated. How do you stay motivated to exercise? I’d love to know since so many of us are heading back to they gym this month and we could use all the motivation we can find to keep going through January and beyond.
By Florida's Bargain Queen, Meg. January 8, 2008. Accessories, Advice, Bags, Clothing, Coats, Fashion, Handbags, Shoes, Shopping, Style
Fashion trends get a bad rap — so much so that many people would hardly call being labeled “trendy” a compliment. In her series on The fashion industry’s biggest secret, Sara illustrates how many fashion editors, designers, and icons don’t seem to follow trends at all — while fashion victims do.
Keeping an eye on trends isn’t a bad thing, though. In fact, smart shoppers know the value of watching trends, since their coming and going determines what’s available in stores — and what’s on sale.
Plus, the occasional dash of trends can liven up your wardrobe if you choose your items carefully and shop smart.
Here’s how.
Click here to continue »
By Florida's Bargain Queen, Meg. January 5, 2008. Accessories, Bargains, Clothing, News, Under $10, Under $100, Under $20, Under $200, Under $50
It’s been unusually chilly here in Florida, but I’m keeping nice and warm thanks to practical but stylish accessories like my new arm warmers.
Also known as long, fingerless gloves, they’re perfect for when you want to keep your hands warm but leave your fingers free to use your cell phone or grab a delicious cup of hot chocolate. They definitely make a difference, which is why I’m wearing mine right now.
Fortunately, Luxury Divas has a wide variety of colors that ship worldwide, all for just $8.99:
Guess which ones I got! I have to warn you, though: once you get your first pair, you’ll want to get them in a few more colors to mix up with your winter wardrobe.
Now, I have heard that many people in colder climates add gloves on top of their arm warmers. There’s certainly nothing wrong with that, but if you’re looking for a more practical solution, then check out these convertible mittens. They’re $19.95 and also ship worldwide.
By admin. December 30, 2007. Accessories, Earrings, Jewelry, Necklaces, News, Style, Under $100, Under $200, Under $50
Here’s a guest post from Jill Sherman, a fashionable, thirty-something style blogger, self-proclaimed credit card junkie, and beauty industry insider. Jill currently has two blogs — Hillary Style and Trendinista.
While Hillary Clinton may not go down in history as a fashion icon like Jackie O., she can definitely rock a power suit and pearl necklace like nobody’s business. And with the recent added pressure to look “current” while she vies for the Democratic presidential nomination, her stylists have kicked her accessories up a notch (and, no, I’m not talking about Bill).
Now, if you think you can’t get these White House looks on a real world budget, you’re in luck. Here are six looks you can fake for a fraction of the cost:
Look #1: Layered Chains
Hillary was recently spotted adorning her neckline with a two-tiered layered chain in yellow gold. And while hers would probably set you back hundreds of dollars, skcbeauty.com has a chic layered chain necklace for $23.95 that will dress up your daytime look without digging into your pocket book.
Look #2: Regal Sapphires
Sapphires, also known as the “stone of destiny,” are a favorite of Hillary’s (which might explain her affinity for the color blue). And, given her taste for the finer things, her majestic diamond and sapphire earrings probably cost her a small fortune. But don’t fret. EvesAddiction.com has an equally stunning pair of sterling silver channel set sapphire and diamond CZ earrings for $40 — how’s that for destiny!
Look #3: Twisted Turquoise
Another favorite of Hillary’s is turquoise. And while I love this look, I probably wouldn’t love the price tag. (Finding a necklace with perfectly matched sky-blue turquoise beads isn’t easy—or cheap.) So what’s a girl to do? Substitute sky-blue turquoise beads with blue shell beads to get the same look minus the sticker shock. Clemoon.com has a multi-strand blue shell beaded necklace for $39.95 that will have you doing double-takes (in a good way, of course).
Look #4: Golden Pearls
If you hadn’t already guessed, Hillary also has a thing for pearls. And not just any pearls — rare golden South Sea pearls. Now, if you have thousands of dollars to spend on these beauties, I say go for it. But if you’re like the rest of us, a necklace made of yellow coin pearls and cultured pearls will give you a similarly sophisticated look without burning up the check book. My pick? The 14k Gold and Coin Pearl Necklace for $59.99 at Overstock.com.
Look #5: Bursting Brooches
Of course, Hillary also likes to rock the occasional brooch. (What’s a girly power suit without a dramatic pin?) To offset her Asian-inspired collar, Hillary recently polished off her look with a stunning white gold floral number set high on the shoulder. And, while not identical, the Pugster Floral Brooch for $22 at Amazon.com is pretty darn convincing.
Look #6: Flat Beads
Hillary was also recently spotted wearing a sleek rondelle-style blue turquoise necklace with yellow gold accents. While you might have more luck finding blue-green turquoise with silver accents within your price range, you’ll need a small miracle to find Hillary’s color combination. In this case, blue resin is the way to go. Amazon.com has a Turquoise Blue Resin Beaded Collar Necklace by Chloe’s Choice for $9.99 with all the personality of Hillary’s necklace at a fraction of the price.
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