This Just In: A Fierce Deal

Hello Dahlings,  Christian Siriano of Project Runway fame was on Oprah today hawking his new collection and his new accessories line for Payless.  Payless, really? I can't recall the last time I stepped into a Payless but now might be the time. If you're looking to stock up on the latest trendy shoe offerings this season, this might be the perfect time to do it. Here's the kicker: if you go to the Oprah show site, you can download a coupon that gets you  50 percent off the entire store today and through close of business on Friday, October 30. This includes Christian's collection, which looks pretty fun and stylish. This is a great offer! How much more affordable can you get? These are not investments obviously but a chance to pick up a few fun pieces to spice up your Fall look. I'm digging these pumps for $34.99 to accompany a pair of straight leg black jeans. Check out the entire Christian Siriano line. Final Word: As Christian would say, these looks are Fierce!

Jimmy Choo Coming to H&M!

Dahlings, it has come to my attention that popular shoe and accessory brand Jimmy Choo which was made famous by Carrie Bradshaw on Sex and the City is coming to H&M. Selected H&M stores will feature a collection of clothing, shoes and accessories starting November 14th. I heard that the collection will be featured in about 200 H&M stores worldwide. How this piece of knowledge is just now getting to my ears is beyond me. But I'm so glad I caught wind of it. Here's the deal; the collection includes men's and women's clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories. Among the offerings are dresses, jumpsuits, leggings, embroidered tops, and other forms of fashion forward pieces. You might also be glad to hear that all the shoes are real leather, which makes them a bit more pricier than your typical H&M buy (The over-the-knee boots are $299). There's tons of sparkly options that are perfect for the holidays. But word is still out on whether this collaboration will be worth the long lines (and the frenzy) when it comes to quality. But we are talking about H&M here so not entirely sure if quality should be of concern. I myself, say no to long lines. I don't have the patience but I will pop my head in to the nearest H&M for a peek and maybe make a purchase if I'm so inclined. Final Word: Girls you are lucky (if you can buy it on time)…

5 Accessories Under $50 To Spruce Up Your Wardrobe

Dahlings, times are tough. Disposable income is at an all time low. Gotta hold on to your cash right? So does your style have to suffer? Oh hell to the no! I've been watching my cash flow too, which means I'm not having a package of fabulousness delivered to my door as frequently. But I still have the urge to splurge. What's a girl to do? Look to accessories, the easiest way to enliven the current items in your closet. Not to mention you can find fantastic pieces at every price point. Here are my top 5 accessories to spruce up your wardrobe to keep you looking fly without breaking the bank.

 I really love the Statement necklace; a necklace that is so fabulous, intricate and bold that it stops you in your tracks. Looove. I'm talking big, bold, with some fabric, sparkle and shine. The trick to wearing these beauties is to keep the rest of your outfit simple. You can wear a statement necklace with a simple t-shirt or dress. Essentially anytime you want to make an outfit pop. That old LBD in the back of your closet can feel new again with the right statement necklace.  I just picked up this dark  knotted multi-chain necklace. Looks better in real life! Noticed I didn't pick gold, which can look tacky. Pictured above, The Galaxy Bib Necklace in Pewter is only $39!

Nothing says fun and sophistication like a  Cocktail ring.  I recently attended a shopping benefit at J.Crew for the United Nations Population Fund in support of women's healthcare and rights around the world. To support the cause I picked up a beautiful gold sunflower ring with rhinestones ( not the exact one I got from J.Crew but close). And I can't stop wearing it. Often it's the only piece of jewelry I wear. It's also a great conversation starter and accompanies a pomegranate martini perfectly.

Check out this pearl embellished ring for $24.

Scarves are always a must have for Fall and there are a myriad of looks out there. But I'm digging what is being called the Infinity scarf. From chunky knits to looser cottons, these pullover or loop-around scarves create the warm, layered looks we love without any skill involved whatsoever. They are effortlessly chic and will keep you warm in the crisp fall weather.

Check out this one by Roxie, only $36.

The Convertible or Cross Body Bag is my new favorite. The convertible bag comes with a detachable strap.When you want a handbag or tote you got one and when you want to go hands free, you just attach the detachable strap and voila! No hands. Not convertible, the cross body bag is worn around your body for a really nonchalant and casual look. I now have two convertible bags on rotation and one cross body bag.  They provide a much needed break from the ovesized bags I've been lugging around! Check out the Nicole Messenger bag from Shopsuey boutique for $48!

Instead of going out and spending your money on an entire new ensemble, pick up a fun, stylish belt that works with something you already own. But remember, cinching your waist tends to accentuate your bust, hips and rear - something not all of us are interested in. Women that are thick in the middle or short-waisted may also have trouble finding a flattering way to wear a belt. A few tips:
•A thick belt draws more attention to your waist and anything above or below it (your bust and hips/rear); try wearing a skinny belt worn at your natural waist instead.
•Look for a top that provides balance to your bootay like a blousy shirt with a wide open collar, belting the top and letting it drape over your hips instead.
• You can also wear a slim-fitting top with a belted full skirt to camouflage your bottom.
I own three leather belts: a wide black studded one to add some funk, a thin patent leather one to go over just about anything, and a wide black embossed belt to kick-up simple looks. Dying for this brown interlocked belt from Anthropologie for $48!

 Final Word:  If you can't afford to get a whole new wardrobe, pick up a few accesories. You'll find that the right peices can breathe new life into the items already in your closet while saving you beaucoup bucks.

Fall Fashion Must Have #2: Opaque Tights

Hello dahlings. The weather outside is frightful but don't let it ban you from your cute dresses and skirts. Apparently opaque tights are a must have the Fall/Winter season according to the style setters. To me tights are a wardrobe staple. I always pull  out my black tights when the weather gets a little chilly.

Finding Your Stride In Heels

I recently attended the Maxwell Black Summer Night's tour. If you know me, you know that I love me some Maxwell, the "sexy ambassador of soul!" The concert was at the Sleep Train Concord Pavilion, an outdoor stadium. I saw a wide range of looks; from body conscious outfits to casual jeans paired with funky tees. But what I noticed the most was the large number of women sporting 5 inch shoes, barely able to walk. Don't get me wrong; heels are a godsend. I'm a shorty so I rely on heels to elongate my legs and add a little pep to my step. However, it looks wrong, completely wrong if you're wearing a killer heel and you're unable to put one foot in front of the other because your feet hurt or the heel is too high and it's throwing your walk off balance. It's not sexy nor is it cute. Often, ladies we put up with discomfort just to get a look. But if your feet hurt, it's going to show. This may seem like common sense but don't buy heels that hurt. period. I refuse to wear shoes that I can't walk in comfortably. Yes, towering heels are very en vogue but they are not for everyone. High heels should be reserved for those evenings where very little walking is involved and sometimes it's worth stashing a more comfortable pair of flats in your car or bag to slip into when your feet begin to hurt. But do maintain your style dignity. When it comes to flats there are tons of options in the stores to keep you looking fly. Don't just throw any old thing on your feet. In general when trying on a pair of heels, take in your silhouette. Do you feel balanced? Walk in the heels throughout the store, away from the carpeted area to get a real feel of the shoe on a hard surface. Make sure you feel aligned as you move. When walking in heels pull your shoulders back and down and suck your stomach in. With a relaxed back make sure you walk by placing one foot in front of the other aiming for the balls of the feet, and Strut, honey!  Personally I stick to about 3 inches sometimes 2 inches for more active work days. Flats really don't work for me, I need at least an inch! For a night out with my man, I might do up to 4 inches but always with a substantial heel. No needle thin heels here. Final word: A female obsession, shoes should make you feel more confident, more sinuous, more empowered all while elevating your outfit. You shouldn't put on a pair of shoes in the morning just to be hobbling around by noon. So check your walk before you wreck your style.

Fall Style Must Have #1: The Blazer

Fall is upon us ladies. And that means endless options of fabulousness. I have a growing list of must have items. I recently started my Fall shopping by purchasing a gray blazer, a little bit of an 80s' throwback but very in the moment for Fall. I love the notched faux-leather collar  and the side zipper pockets. But you'll never guess where I got it. I'm always looking for a good bargain especially since the downturn. I've noticed of late the JCpenney ads everywhere, so I thought, let's check out what JCP has to offer. And surprise, surprise. I found some very desirable items at tremendous discounts.
I especially love the "I Heart Ronson" line for it's cute edgy, yet very affordable pieces. The designer, Charlotte Ronson is Sam Ronson's sister, Lindsay Lo's former flame. Check out my find above. Can't beat the price ( $72 marked down to $29!) and I've already gotten major, major compliments.  The Blazer is big this Fall and can be found anywhere at all prices points. If you're getting a blazer for the first time, I would suggest a more classic version. I love blazers and have several, so this option is perfect for those days I want to add a sophisticated edge to my look. Final Word:  Get your Blazer on!