Fashion Me Fabulous

This Week On Fashion Me Fabulous

2009-11-07T12:35:00.002-05:00

Shopping Habits: Do you save or splurge on Halloween leftovers (other than candy, of course)? What do you look for in a mascara? Which piece of jewelry would inspire the novelist in you? Would you buy any of the clothes from the Project Runway finalists?

Getting Dressed: Try furry vests, brown heeled boots, fall bohemian and a nearly perfect winter boot this season. Also, check out our tips for dressing your hips.

In Stores: Stop by our picks for vintage and Etsy shops this week. Also, our T.J. Maxx contest has ended and we have a winner.

Project Runway Episode 12: Bryant Park or Bust

2009-11-06T21:30:00.000-05:00

Michael Kors was not there for the last challenge. That is not acceptable.

Anyway, the designers were challenged to create a look inspired by anything at the Getty center. It could be art, architecture, landscape, the view, anything. The sky was the limit with this challenge. In most seasons the challenges are really restrictive and the designers have to work hard to show their point of view. This season, the challenges have been more open-ended, which should have lead to more exciting designs. However, everything has been boring or a train-wreck. Nothing has wowed. This final challenge where anything was possible would have made designers of past seasons jump for joy (See Season 4 at the Met), but these designers have had plenty of chances to shine so they didn't seem all that grateful.

They also didn't shine. I didn't want anyone's look. I wasn't wowed. I wouldn't have sent any of them to Bryant Park. I'm surprised Nina didn't shut the whole show down and say, go find some designers who will try a little harder (or that Ra'mon should have never been kicked off and should win the whole season). These designers aren't bad, but they don't stack up to even some of the mediocre designers of seasons past. Can we have a new season, please?

There was no winner this week, but Irina was the first to know she was on her way to Bryant Park. I'm sure she knew that already though. Usually, Irina does a good job and I like her clothes. She has never wowed me. She's made things I want to wear, but I find things at JC Penny that I want to wear. This week her dress was dowdy and sad, and this was after she nixed the fur. They video editing team did try to put in a few moments where Irina was almost being nice and likable. I didn't totally buy it, but I did like the scene in mood where she found the fur she loved but didn't end up using. She was trying to figure out what kind of fur it was and said "It's not goat. Maybe rabbit?" Tim responded in a near whisper. "It's too big to be rabbit. Maybe it's a giant Scandinavian rabbit." This made me laugh a little. First Irina moment all season that had some lightness. Irina's inspiration was a painting with this black gauzy dress that was completely see through. I was excited to see something dramatic, gauzy, sensual, exciting, wearable. This was none of those things.
Next up, Carol Hannah with her pretty gold dress. It really was pretty and pretty boring. An ornate, luscious European bed with tons of texture and lux fabric inspired it. Talk about toning down your inspiration. Sadly, this was probably the best look of the night. Happily, she's on her way to Bryant Park.
Christopher is out. I kind of knew that. It was sad, and I wanted to hug him. However, this is the third dress like this he's made and none of them have worked. He chose a spot of algae in a fountain for his inspiration. Even a spot of algae can inspire something better. The fabric on the bottom moved weird and looked heavy. It didn't flow (if you find inspiration in a fountain your look must flow). I hope Christopher gets some training and keeps trying though. I think he could be good someday. Toning down the Pollyanna attitude and being able to look critically at his work will help him too.
The last two standing were Althea and Gordana. This seemed a little obvious to me even though Althea's look was kind of a mess. She tried to do something architectural inspired by the Getty center building itself, but didn't quite execute it. Althea has done a lot of this pleating, textured stripes, bands of fabric stuff this season. More consistent judges would have noticed that and scolded her for it. Regardless, on the merits of actually trying to do something more interesting than a blank wall she made it to Bryant Park.
This means Gordana went home. Her dress was pretty, but not all that well made, which is odd for Gordana. She was the best at living up to her inspiration, a Monet painting. She was almost weeping when she talked about how personal and spiritual the design was. I'm glad it spoke to her, but it didn't speak to anyone else. Good design has to speak to the viewer/wearer too. Gordana has passion and skill, but she lacks vision.
The final three are Irina, Carol Hannah and Althea. I'm not the least bit surprised. I don't know who will win with a little more time to plan and work, but I'm a planning for next season and working up an appetite for interesting fashion design. At this point, I'm just watching for Tim Gunn.

What are your thoughts on the final three? On the season as a whole?

Project Design: Novel Writing Month

2009-11-06T12:18:00.000-05:00

Project Design is our own friendly competition where we put together collection of independent designers for you to rate on your very own imaginary runway.

November is National Novel Writing Month. Once again this year, I am attempting to write a novel (50,000 words) in a month. And yet again, I'm already behind. This is my third year attempting this, and I hope it's not my third failure. Perhaps I just need to wear a little inspiration. Which item would inspire you to finish a novel in a month?

Novel Lover Earrings by rhymeswithmagic
No 2 Pencil Necklace by chrysdesignsjewelry
Leather book necklace by anticovalore
Interrobang Typewriter Key Earrings by KeysAndMemories
Pen Nib Earrings by savagesalvage
Typewriter Key Charm Pendant by qacreate
Computer Key Ring by creativedexterity

poll by twiigs.com

Dressing Your Hips

2009-11-06T08:45:00.000-05:00

In case you have stumbled upon this post via a search for "dressing a square shape" please know this is not the post you're looking for. Here at Fashion Me Fabulous, we're not interested in making various beautiful bodies all look like hourglasses. We embrace what we are, and this post is about emphasizing and exaggerating what you have, your supposed "flaws". Of course, if you're set on being an hourglass, you can view this as what not to wear for your shape, but this pear will stick with her bubble skirts, thank you very much.

Here are some fashion tips from history to help you dress your hips no matter what end of the spectrum they're on.

Eighteenth century style was epitomized by the French court, especially ill-fated Marie Antoinette. No doubt the queen of France had the biggest skirts in the world. The hips weren't just widened with panniers; the skirt was used as a canvas for excess. For a similar look in theme, widen the hips with a peplum or bubble, and wear equally bold pieces the entire way down the leg.

Punked Out Marie by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring Dorothy Perkins

The Victorians also wore wide skirts, but rather than buy a hoop skirt, achieve the visual with horizontal stripes.

I Can Fit Through a Doorway in This by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring Valentino bags

Later, the Victorians drew attention to the back by gathering material into a bustle. Many modern skirts come with such details, and if you want to go all out, you can create extra derriere detail with the addition of bow and flower pins. The bow on the skirt below is for the front, but it can be turned around.

Back Up by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring Catherine Malandrino

Dior's New Look, the symbol of 1950s style, was born from his love of Victorian fashion. Rather than dressing like you're from a period movie (which we trust you already know how to do), bring the undergarments to the fore. Pair a tutu with a structured top for an edgy look.

We Had Franz Ferdinand At Our Sock Hop by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring Betsey Johnson bags

On the opposite end of the spectrum was the slim hipped flapper. One of the era's most common ways to highlight the hips was with a drop waist.

Flapper Hips by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring Giuseppe Zanotti shoes

If a drop waist isn't your thing, wear a hip belt or decorate that area of your clothing with pins.

1920s in the Day by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring French Connection shoes

In the upcoming weeks, expect posts using lessons from fashion history for dressing the waist and bust.

T.J. Maxx Giveaway Winner!

2009-11-05T13:20:00.001-05:00

Our first contest ended Sunday, and we now have a winner for the $25 T.J. Maxx gift card! I enjoyed reading all the entries and looking at pictures from those who sent them. I also loved that several of you said it would be hard to point out just one T.J. Maxx deal because most of your wardrobe had been purchased there.

The winner was chosen by a highly scientific method. I had my mom draw a name from a bowl. And the winner is.....

Lydia!Lydia's entire outfit is from T.J. Maxx. Here's what she had to say about her best bargain:

"My greatest T.J. Maxx bargain is a Chiara Mente sweater dress, found on the clearance rack for $7. The Italian made wool dress had a ‘compare at’ price of $80!

My happiest T.J. Maxx moment however, was when I didn’t buy a pair of leather boots I was in love with because I thought they were too expensive. When I left the store that day I had non-buyers remorse! The next time I went back they were gone. Then, about a month later at a different T.J.Maxx, I found them again, only now they were on clearance! I got my amazing boots, and a great price."

Happy Shopping, Lydia! To see some of the pictures from other entries, visit our Facebook photo album.

Those of you who didn't enter, what is your best "Maxx" moment?

FMF Reader Poll: Mascara

2009-11-05T11:42:00.000-05:00

Mascara is one of those magical items. If you don't have any time to apply makeup when makeup is needed, just swipe on a little mascara. It takes a plain face to a new level. It's also has magical properties to it's price range. It can cost almost nothing or more than a good pair of shoes. There are also a lot of other variable like waterproofing, color, brush type, ect... I've even seem vibrating mascara wands and mascara that comes off in tubes at the end of the day. What do you look for in a mascara?

poll by twiigs.com

$150 Challenge: Bohemian Fall

2009-11-05T08:10:00.000-05:00

Earlier this week, I mentioned that I like furry vests in the context of bohemian outfits. That's where this started, but it ended somewhere else. It should, however, be enough to meet my contractual obligations to provide becca with one hippie look a season. Failure to meet this requirement results in becca purchasing an ankle length crochet skirt, and I can't let that happen. This look (which is pretty sweet if I do say so myself) totals $147.98.

Fall for You by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring Forever21

shag vest, Forever 21 $27.80
scarf dress, Forever 21 $29
turtleneck, Forever 21 $15.80
teal leggings, Forever 21 $4.80
flower purse, Naturalizer "Penny 1" $29.99
slouchy boots, Charlotte Russe $29.99
sunglasses, Forever 21 $5.80
flower stack rings, Forever 21 $4.80

Etsy Shop of the Week: Just Peachy

2009-11-04T10:22:00.000-05:00

Shop: Just Peachy

Why We Love It: I routinely feature Just Peachy jewelry in Project Design sets like this one and this one. I figured it was time to give the shop it's post.

Price Range: $12 to $55

More Info: Become a "Just Peachy" fan on Facebook.

Favorite Items: Mod Roses Necklace $38 (pictured); Modern Bubbles Necklace $38; Filigree Crescent and Citrine Teardrop Necklace $25; Love Birds Perched Silhouette Necklace $25

Shopping Inquiry: Brown Heeled Boots

2009-11-04T08:30:00.000-05:00

One of my coworkers wants to buy some boots for his girlfriend, but he's clueless on brands. As far as brands in that price range are concerned, we recommend Franco Sarto, Naturalizer, Aerosoles, and (if you can find them at a discount store) Frye for everyday boots. His specs are as follows: brown, high heel, knee high and under $200. Essentially, the sort of boot many of you are looking for. Here are a few boots we like that fit those requirements.Top: chunky soled boot, Guess "Bowler" at Endless $198.95
patent trim boot, Franco Sarto "Laud" at Endless $98.42
military button boot, ZiziGirl "Spider" at Endless $189.95
western boot, Aerosoles "Otherworldly" at Endless $139.95
Bottom: patent boots, Rockport "Eberhart Blvd" on Endless $199.95
side buckle boot, Jessica Simpson "Hosana" at Endless $197.95
lace-up boots, Vincent Camuto "Minnie" at Piperlime $198
chain boot, Michael Antonio "Onte" at Endless $89.95

Do you have a shoping request? Email us your specs at editor[at]fashionmefabulous[dot]com.

Save or Splurge: Costume Clearance

2009-11-03T10:00:00.000-05:00

Now that Halloween is over, costume pieces everywhere are on super clearance. Now Halloween costume stuff is poor quality, however some stuff is worth picking up. Last year I stumbled upon a ton of really unique fake eyelashes for a dollar a pair. I only purchased one pair with feathers on then ends. I really regret not buying every style. Many of them were rather subtle and could have been a lot of fun to wear to parties and when going out.

I also found black lipstick for an experiment I was doing to capture the look of YSL's runway makeup. The lipstick came with some pretty nice black nail polish, and the whole kit cost just a dollar. I wish I would have splurged on some name brand black shimmer eye shadow too.

There are also clearance tights, which may not be the best quality, but could be fun to play with. There are awesome masks that could be great for a holiday masquerade ball (or just for fun). I would never spend a ton of money on this stuff, but I wish I had splurged by buying more of those eyelashes last year instead of being stingy.

Do you save or splurge on Halloween clearance?

Vintage Shop: Firegypsy

2009-11-03T08:22:00.004-05:00

Shop: Firegypsy Vintage on Etsy

What: Dresses, bags, shoes and a bit of everything else

When: purses back to the 1950s, most dresses to the 1960s

How much: Accessories around $30, dresses around $50

Favorites: beige cowboy boots 60s $47; turquoise cocktail dress 60s $89.99; kimono envelope clutch 50s $19.99; burgundy puff sleeve disco cocktail dress 70s $52; emboidered mirrored hippie dress 60s $50; cutout bathing suit 80s $34.99

Editor's Pick of the Week: Boot WANT!

2009-11-02T09:42:00.000-05:00

Most of my truly comfortable shoes come from Naturalizer. I also get a ton of compliments the shoes I own from there. During a recent visit to Naturalizer, I spotted these lace up boots. I want them! They are a perfect leather boot for winter. I can wear them with pants and skirts. Since they don't have a tall shaft, I don't have to worry about them being too small for my calves like most boots. They also have a sturdy heel for navigating winter terrain.

Naturalizer sells them in black (pictured), brown and a tan suede & leather mix. They are also currently on sale for $99 from $120. I wish I was employed and could afford these because I'd be ordering my size 11s right now.

Furry Vests

2009-11-02T08:17:00.005-05:00

Stores are packed with furry vests, but I have yet to see anyone in my area buy into them. Most people here are still sporting down skiing vests...for the Indiana mountains? I'm not a fan of warm vests period as it's my arms that are always getting cold; however, a furry vest with a bohemian look is sublime. What do you think of this cold weather trend?Top: studded crop vest, Candie's at Kohl's $16.80
brown vest, Forever 21 $38.90
cable knit vest, Armani Exchange $99
Middle: black embellished vest, Forever 21 $44
grey pocket, Dillard's
long grey vest, Nordstrom $98
Bottom: shearling vest, G by Guess $69.50
black "suede" vest, Forever 21 $24.80
cream vest, Express $98

This Week on Fashion Me Fabulous

2009-10-31T21:37:00.000-04:00

November 1st is the last day to enter our $25 T.J. Maxx Gift Card Giveaway!

This Week in Color: We rounded up colorful winter coats, boots and scarves. Also check out this colorful Etsy shop, these unexpected color combinations, vote for your favorite color combos, and tell us if you save or splurge on buying one of each color.

This Week in Shopping: Check out Lola Vintage, unicorn shoes, and an entire outfit on sale (save $100!). Also, Jael Paris reviews a great experience shopping at Sock Dreams.

This Week in Your Opinion: What do you think of this goth glam gown, this week's episode of Project Runway and sexy Halloween costumes? Speaking of Halloween costumes send us a picture of your costume, and we might post it on Facebook. Email us at editor[at]fashionmefabulous[dot]com

And speaking of Facebook, Jael Paris posted some experimental color outfits on our Facebook page.

Project Runway Episode 11: Best of What's Left

2009-10-30T23:33:00.003-04:00

Sorry about posting this a little late today, but I kept falling asleep from boredom. This season is draining me. Last night's episode was titled "Best of the Best." Really? This is the best the best have to offer. When doesn't the next season start? Even Tim Gunn looks ready for a new group of designers and rightly concerned about this bunch.

The designers started facing away from the runway only to turn around to see each of their winning looks. Well, Logan hasn't won so he saw his look from the first episode, which the judges decided was the best he had offered all season. They were told to make a companion look for their winning look on a $100 budget. Where did all the crazy materials challenges go this season? Did they choose boring challenges because they knew they had a mostly (Ra'mon excluded) boring group of designers?

Tim Gunn is scoring a lot of screen time this season. This is partly because the model choosing portion has moved to it's own show and mostly because these designers need some extra coaching. I've never seen Tim so forthcoming with specific advise and outright help. He actually told Carol Hannah how to layer her fabrics. I get the feeling Tim Gunn is the only reason Lifetime bothered airing this season aside from advertising obligations.

With only six designers left and one challenge before Bryant Park, all of the designers were judged. I'll start with Carol Hannah. Tim not only helped her layer her fabric but also gave her a major pep talk at Mood. She felt she need to show the judges she could make pants, but Tim told her to stay in her comfort zone and make it amazing. She made it cute, but amazing was a long way away. Her dress with pockets was a companion piece to her Bob Mackie look (left). I could see them in the same collection, but she had so many other directions to take that. The judges loved it though. Heidi even said, "We could all wear that dress." (Really Heidi, even guest judge and season two alum, Nick Verreos?) I would wear it, but it's not what I would design to wow the judges at this stage.
Irina was also liked by the judges, but she was still bitter. Her companion look for last week's Aspen-inspired outfit(left) looked lux and comfortable. I loved the sweater coat, but didn't find it all that interesting. I'm with Nina that the brocade mini dress underneath looked cheap. Nina also stirred controversy asking who came up with the sweater coat idea since both Irina and Althea showed cozy sweater coats. Irina lashed out at Althea on the runway, but guest judge Nick defused it saying those things happen. Plus, the sweater coat was not invented yesterday.
Althea's sweater coat may have been controversial, but there was no controversy about her paper bag waist pants. They echoed her winning look (left) perfectly. They flattered the figure, which is very tricky with that style, and everything looked easy, lux, and expensive. This combination secured Althea last night's win and eternal evil glares from Irina.
On to the worst of the "best." Christopher landed in the bottom three, of course. I'm over my original love for him. He was the best of the three worst, which says something considering this messy, awkward dress that does nothing to capture the edgy youthfulness of his winning red carpet look (left) from episode one. Nina cringed when it came down the runway. Nick said it had potential (how positive of him), but it needed major editing. I think it looked like his film genre dress minus the pretty parts. Without consistent judges, this kind of self-copying has gone unnoticed all season.
Gordana made a boring, dated jacket and something else as a companion to her look from the divorcee challenge (left). This completely missed the mark. I expected Nina to question her taste level and send her packing, but she remained safe.
Even his "good" looks and silver pants couldn't save Logan. He didn't even have a winning look to build off of, which should have been the first clue that this week wouldn't go well for him. Again the judges urged editing (We have a theme!). The look had a lot going on and little going for it. The look he had to work with was a blank slate. He could have done anything. The judges have been wanting him to step up his looks, but this was too much. I thought Logan had some promise, but he never lived up to it. The saddest part of his leaving is that my favorite model, Kohji (right), also got eliminated. Logan left saying he isn't a designer for "middle American or 90% of the country." I guess he designs for the 10% of the country with a lot of money and no taste. Unless he books Paris Hilton as a client, his career will be a short one.
Looking ahead, I fully expect Carol Hannah, Althea and Irina to be at Bryant Park. I don't know if Gordana or Christopher will join them. I'd be more interested to see Christopher's collection, but I don't know if he can pull off another week. At least his winning look was cute. I didn't care for Gordana's winning look much at all. I really hate to say it, but all things point to Irina winning the season. If she does win, someone should have tried to edit in a few clips that made her seem endearing or even mildly likable. I'm cheering for Althea. Actually, I'm cheering for next season.

What are your thoughts on the season so far? Who do you think will win? Irina's clothes are pretty good so why is it so hard to get behind her?

Project Design: Colorful Winter Scarves

2009-10-30T14:41:00.000-04:00

Project Design is our own friendly competition where we put together collection of independent designers for you to rate on your very own imaginary runway.

I love lots of color in the winter, but when the perfect winter coat at the perfect price presented itself in black two years ago, I couldn't pass it up in favor of a more colorful coat. This means I rely on colorful accessories to make up for my black coat. This as actually allowed me to switch of colors of my winter look each year just by buying a new scarf, hat and gloves. It's rather fun. Which of these unique and colorful winter scarves would you choose to brighten your cold-weather look?

Deep Purple Necklush by Necklush
Teal Blue Scallop Edged Neckwarmer by beebun
Mustard Spiral Scarf by Trucks & Pearls
Jersey Scarf with Braids by fort & field
Lace Victorian Style Purple Scarf by emma sommerfeld
Flamenco Felt Scarf in Olive Branch by FeltInspired
Royal Blue Cowl Neck Warmer by DayliteAndDark

poll by twiigs.com

Unexpected Color Combinations

2009-10-30T09:27:00.001-04:00

What I Wore Today featured a reader letter a while back about what to wear with a purple cardigan. Kasmira gave wonderful advice while my reaction was a bit more face-palm. I love color, so I constantly forget some people (like my mother-in-law) freeze up when it comes to color. They fear clashing. They fear it doesn't look right on them. They fear being too bright. Honeys, it's okay if people notice you. Wear that purple and red. You like it in a flowerbed, why not on your body? If you feel two colors clash, throw in a third to mediate. Yes, three colors in one outfit; they could be different colors or just different shades of what you have. And take some inspiration from the unusual combinations below. You too can match colors.

Lilac and burnt orange

Burnt Orange and Lilac by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring Melissa shoes

Neon yellow and dark green

Taxi Cab Hunter by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring MAXX New York bags

Sky blue and mustard

Pale Blue and Mustard by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring mulberry bags

Hot pink and burgundy

Pink and Burgundy by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring Valentino bags

Royal purple and lime

Lime Soaked Grapes by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring Old Navy

Dark green and hot pink

Bed of Roses by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring Marc Jacobs bags

Mauve and neon yellow

Neon Yellow and Muave by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring Fendi

Tomato red and olive

Tomato Army by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring Vivienne Westwood bags

The Horror: New Adjective Please

2009-10-29T12:38:00.000-04:00

Mean Girls was right about many things, but I don't want it to be right about Halloween. It may be a time when "girls can dress like a total slut and no other girls can say anything about it," but I'm not one of those girls. I don't want to be a sexy Indian princess, a sexy Spongebob babe, a sexy cowgirl, or a sexy anything else! I just want to play pretend for a night, and I'm neither out there enough nor repressed enough to feel that I need to put myself on display for my one costume party a year. Halloween can happen without miniskirts and thigh-high stockings. (Besides, October 31st is generally cold in Indiana.)

The whole phenomenon is so infuriating, I can't even put it into words. Let's alter course and just for kicks, look at the men's versions of these costumes: Native American, Spongebob, cowboy. They're downright Victorian when it comes to covering the body. Arg!

I don't remember Dan Aykroyd wearing this.

FMF Reader Poll: Color Combinations

2009-10-29T12:32:00.003-04:00

I used to subscribe to the color equation of 1 color + 1 or more neutrals + accessories that are the same color as the first color = outfit. Purple shoes with a red dress? Never. Green dress with light blue tights? That's absurd. An outfit with three colors and no neutrals? As if! (That was a legitimate statement in the 90s when I was making these protests).

Now, I often have to be convinced to add a neutral to my outfits. I don't shy away from green and purple with a pop of yellow or red and orange with some baby blue mixed in. Occasionally this gets me dirty looks from people wearing black and denim at the grocery store, but I'm having fun so I don't really care. What are your favorite color combination? Since I couldn't list them all, tell us any other favorites in the comments.

poll by twiigs.com

$150 Challenge: Sale Edition

2009-10-29T08:10:00.001-04:00

When was the last time you browsed the sales rack? It's generally the first place I look in a store, but I've been too busy buying things for my house to really go shopping. In the spirit of bargain hunting, everything below, save the tights, is currently on sale. Full price, this look cost $240.99, but if you hurry you can get it for $140.45.

$150 Challenge: Sale Edition by Fashion Me Fabulous featuring Old Navy

dress, Arden B $39.99 was $68
cable knit cardigan, Old Navy $29 was $36.50
neon yellow tights, We Love Colors $12.50
moccasin, Dillard's $14.99 was $49.99
fringe bag, Roxy $21 was $42
ring, Torrid $7.98 was $10
chandelier earrings, Kohls $6.99 was $14
nail polish, OPI "I'm Fondue of You" at Drugstore.com $8 was $8.50

Etsy Shop of the Week: Rainbow Revolution

2009-10-28T14:02:00.002-04:00

Shop: Rainbow Revolution

Why We Love It: In honor of color week, we bring you this Etsy whop that blends the rainbow into a lovely scarves, wraps and accessories made of a variety of natural fibers.

Price Range: $13-$165

More Info: Visit Rainbow Revolution's website, blog and twitter.

Favorite Items: Hemp Fabric Loop Scarf $25 (pictured); Hand Dyed Cotton Head Wrap $20; Vibrant Open Weave Cotton Wrap Scarf $15; Hand Dyed Light Cotton Wrap Scarf $25; Harlequinn Magic Hand Dyed Tissue Silk Scarf $35

Spot Store Review: Sock Dreams

2009-10-28T12:30:00.001-04:00

When it became apparent that I would need arm warmers or fingerless gloves to survive the cold weather at work, I first headed to Etsy. They didn't really have what I needed -- washable, smooth warmers for an "I don't care if they get ruined" price. Then I remembered Sock Dreams. I frequently find myself lusting over the goodies on Sock Dreams, but hadn't broken down and purchased anything from them. Their Harajuku arm warmers were exactly what I wanted, so I bought three pairs in merlot, teal and emerald. Shipping was free and they were sent out that same day. It only took two days for them to get from Oregon to Indiana. They are very warm without being itchy. An excellent e-shopping experience overall.

13 Colorful Boots For Fall/Winter

2009-10-28T08:10:00.000-04:00

Color Week marches on with our annual feature of colorful boots, because we all need a smile on a grey day.Top: green knee boots, Miz Mooz "Sunrise" on Endless $199.95
red zip ankle boot, Pour La Victoire "Adriane" on Endless $319.95
navy button ankle boot, Eric Michael "Soho" on Endless $179.95
cranberry button boot, Frye "Matilda Button" on Endless $447.95
Bottom: blue stud ankle boot, Nine West "Facade" on Endless $128.95
orange ruffle bootie, Lovely People "Piper" on Endless $143.95
fuschia bootie, Steve Madden "Cuddless" at Nordstrom $149.95
Top: green short cowboy boots, Lucky "Chantel" on Zappos $133
red zig-zag heel bootie, Top Shop "Amaze" $170
multicolored flat boot, Irregular Choice "Ayre" on Endless $170.95
Bottom: yellow mod boot, John Fluevog "Mirella" $399
purple studded flat boot, Michael Antonio "Mikoda" on Endless $64.95
teal bow ankle boots, Anthropologie $198

Later this month we'll show you styling boots for the budget minded and great boots to keep you sturdy on the ice.

Lola Vintage on Etsy

2009-10-27T08:22:00.000-04:00

Shop: Lola Vintage on Etsy

What: Dresses, blouses, and a little in the way of other clothes

When: 1950s-1980s

How much: Very affordable with prices hovering around $20-$40

Learn more: www.lolavintage.blogspot.com

Favorites: satin peplum dress 80s $34; green slingbacks 60s $16; gold drape dress 80s $36; colorful bow dress 80s $24

Save or Splurge: One in Each Color

2009-10-26T18:15:00.002-04:00

When I find pieces I love, I'm always inclined to buy on in each color. However, I don't want the temptation to wear the same things all the time. Usually I resist buying multiples of one item and end up regretting it.

Next time I find basic mary janes or a basic layering tee that I like, I'm splurging on all the colors. Same goes for the next pair of jeans that fits, the next cardigan sweater and the next pair of dress pants. Yes, it makes for a redundant wardrobe, but that's what statement pieces are for. When I find a truly fabulous item in my price range that fits, I think it's wise to buy each color. I've done this only a few times with my favorite cardigans, tights, camisoles and my favorite layering tees. I'm so glad I have two of each of these things. It makes my currently limited wardrobe go a lot further.

Plus, more color options can add more fun and interesting pairings to my outfits. I love adding a pop of color to a dress with a pair of purple tights and a red cami. The only trick is to make sure I really love an item otherwise I'm stuck with multiples of something mediocre.

Do you save by buying just one or do you splurge on one of each color?

Pictured: Victoria's Secret Crew Neck Tee 2/$25