11/10/2009

Hot 'n Cold: My Winter Favorites

It's getting cold outside and although I love to hang out under the sun and roast, this is my favorite season in terms of fashion.

These are some of my favorite winter/cold weather accessories...

Colorful tights and leggings

RSAST Shiny Stirrup Tight in Sangria, $14 at American Apparel
BP 'Turn Back' Stretch Cotton Leggings in Adrenaline, $7.90 at Nordstrom

I'd like to make clear the difference between tights and leggings as I have seen way too many privates as a result of getting these two mixed up.

Leggings are opaque and can be worn as pants as these are usually made of thicker more durable materials that do not allow embarrassing see-thru. Tights (even though some are pretty opaque too) become very see thru as they stretch and therefore are not intended to be worn as a pants substitute, but rather to cover your legs from the cold weather.

Funky Coats


Houndstooth Trench Coat, $46.99 at Charlotte Russe
Shield Button Coat in Royal, $39.80 at Forever21

I love color and wearing patterns that pop. Why wear boring coats?


The 3 for $10 Pashmina



Who doesn't own one of these? The best part of acquiring a pashmina in NYC is getting to bargain with the Chinese vendors.

What are your winter favorites?

Happy Shopping :)

10/06/2009

Love that Fall Sales Rack

With the excuse that my friend was visiting last weekend and she was looking for an outfit to wear on Saturday night, we made a quick trip to one of my favorite stores, Anthropologie. We went straight for the sales racks - yes racks, they had so many amazing pieces on sale! - and ended up leaving the store with a few items.

This is what I indulged in:


Breezy Idyll Tank, $19.95 at Anthropologie

Absolutely loved the hook-and-eye detail in the front, it has a corset feeling but I can actually breathe in it! I paired this tank with this sleeveless vest that we found for a price you will not believe.


Ric Rac Sleeveless Vest in Ivory, $9.95 at select Anthropologie stores


Happy Shopping :)

9/22/2009

Unimpressed - Anna Sui for Target

I just came back from doing some shopping at Target and of course what was supposed to be a quick run for some needed toiletries and boring house items turned into something else.

As you might know, eclectic designer Anna Sui recently launched a limited edition Gossip Girl-inspired line for Target. I was surprised to find items from the line today at the Target store that I usually frequent, as the line was supposed to be an online exclusive available only from September 13 through October 17.


I just have one thing to say about the line: Anna, it was very thoughtful of you to make your designs available at an affordable price, but next time don't forget to keep the design as tasteful as your more expensive collections.

The collection includes outfits allegedly inspired by the popular Gossip Girl characters Blair, Serena, Jenny and Vanessa. I find it hard to see either character in these clothes. The design of each piece is seriously lacking and the fabric used is probably of the worst quality currently carried by Target.

Honestly, Anna Sui's Gossip Girl-inspired line for Target should have never made it to stores, online pictures do a very good job at concealing everything that is wrong with these pieces.

Uninspired and totally unimpressed by Anna Sui's collection, I continued my journey through Target by going straight to the detergent aisle right where I should have gone from the very beginning.

Happy Shopping :)

9/17/2009

A Big Bag. For School, Work, Whatever...

I've had a couple of requests from readers who are in need for carry-all bags for school. Never a big fan of backpacks or messenger bags, I always tend to look at large totes that can easily fit my laptop, a notebook and perhaps a text book - yes, it is possible.

Search for lightweight, yet durable materials and most importantly comfortable handles that fit over a coat (if you live in a cold area) as you want your bag to be just as useful during the winter. 

Of course, Target is one of my first stops when shopping for a practical bag that can hold it all, but I have also been lucky at stores like Marshall's, TJ Maxx, Gap and Banana Republic. I am never shy to explore what other (usually expensive) stores have to offer at reduced prices. The sale aisle and outlet malls are a frugal shopper's paradise. 

Below are some cute carry-all bags that I'm sure you'll enjoy...
Hollywood Intuition Tote in Green, $29.99 at Target


Perlina Metallic Giraffe Print Tote, $49.99 at Target
Suitcase Overnighter, $18.99 at Target


Patchwork Bag in Tan, $34.99 at Spiegel
Call me Betsey Tote, $74 at Zappos

Happy Shopping :)



9/07/2009

Designer LookAlike: Yves Saint Laurent

The YSL Downtown Tote
YSL Downtown Tote


This chic and carry-all bag goes for over $1,000 depending on the leather type and size you choose. (Yves Saint Laurent Medium Downtown Patent Tote, $1,495 at Saks Fifth Avenue)


Check out this lookalike in "croc" leather for only $39 at Spiegel

Happy Shopping :)

8/31/2009

Dialogue: The Menswear Trend

What do you think about the "menswear trend"? Oversized blazers, oxford shirts, trousers...

Neiman Marcus, Urban Outfitters, Gap and many other retail stores have defined it as one of this season's hottest trends, but how moved are you to actually add it to your fall wardrobe?


Love it or hate it? Comment below.


8/30/2009

Scarves Around Your Neck

If your workplace/studyplace is as freezing as mine, scarves will be a must even earlier this fall.

Below is a collage of some trendy and budget-friendly scarves. Gotta have them all!


SCARVES
Lorena Abstract Scarf, $7.80 at Forever21
H81 Antique Floral Scarf, $7.80 at Forever21
Scarf Thai C, $14.90 at Mango
Copia Printed Scarf, $20 at Urban Outfitters
Apt. 9 Leopard Scarf, $11.25 at Kohls
Americana Plaid Scarf, $19.50 at Guess
Blurred Ikat Scarf, $8.99 at Charlotte Russe
Animal Print Silk Scarf, $10.80 at Forever21

Happy Shopping :)

8/26/2009

Boots Are Made For...

I love shoes. And of course my favorite are boots. However, growing up in an island it was hard to find an appropriate time to wear them!

Throughout my life, I moved around a bit and had the opportunity to finally live in places where boots were a must rather than a want. 

Fall is just around the corner and I can't wait to try on some of these affordable and gorgeous styes! Over the knee boots are a must-have this fall season, I've included some on this post but also showed some variety... not sure how comfortable those over the knee boots are!

A Pop of Color
Red Knee high Boots
Charle's Albert Amanda Women's Boot in Red, $30.90 at Endless

Sexy Plexy
Black Knee High Boots

Knee-High Leather Boot in Double Expresso, $44.99 at Newport-News

 
Feeling Navajo
Midwest Navajo Boots in Chestnut

Unionbay Women's Midwest Boot in Chestnut, $36.88 at Endless

Never Never Land 
Over the Knee Boots
Over-the-Knee Boots in Charcoal, $44.99 at Charlotte Russe

Once Upon a Time...


Ankle Boot with Bow

Ankle Boot with Bow Detail in Light Grey, $49 at Newport-News

Over the Knee Cowgirl

Knee high Cowboy Boots

Knee High Cowboy Boots, $42.99 at Charlotte Russe

For a Rainy Day
Rain Boots
Nomad Puddles Artistic Rain Boot, $39.95 at DSW


Happy Shopping :)

8/20/2009

Ooh La La! Rue La La Goes Mobile


Among the "Exclusive Access to Designer Fashion for Less" links you see to the right of this post is one of my favorite invitation-only, online destinations for designer items at 50%-80% off - Rue La La. 

Rue La La members enjoy access to private "designer boutique" sales, each open for just two days.  Starting next week you will be able to shop Rue La La's boutiques from your mobile phone via m.ruelala.com. 

To say merci to all of you who make a purchase with your iPhone between August 24 - August 28, Rue La La will hand you a $25 iTunes gift card and iPhone cover. C'est très facile! 

Become an exclusive Rue La La member today with this invitation

Happy Shopping :)


8/14/2009

¡Olé! Fall Nail Colors Inspired by España

OPI's Fall/Winter 2009 Collection


Just because the summer is almost over doesn't mean that treating yourself to a regular mani & pedi should come to an end. The best part is that you can get a full mani & pedi session for only $35 in most US cities or you can even do it yourself with some help from the nearest
 drugstore. 

Keep up with this hygiene and beauty routine no matter the season and stay on top of the latest nail polish hues to match your outfits.

I just came back from getting a well deserved mani & pedi myself and had a chance to try OPI's Fall/Winter 2009 España Collection. I am loving every one of OPI's 12 new shades which not only includes the expected dark tones but also features pinks, greens, orange and brown colors.



I had a hard time choosing a color from the collection, but their clever names made it so much fun! 

(left to right)
Barefoot in Barcelona
Can You Tapas This?
Give Me Moor!
Suzi Skis in the Pyrenees
Here Today... Aragon Tomorrow
Manicurist of Seville
Pink Flamenco
No Spain, No Gain
Ate Berries in the Canaries
Pamplona Purple
Conquistadorable Color
Bullish on OPI

Check them out yourself at your favorite nail salon or beauty supply shop. These usually go for $8.50.

Which one is your favorite?

Happy Shopping :)

8/13/2009

Recession-Proof Stylish Jeans

Close the Gap Between Fashionable Jeans and Affordable Jeans.

1960 Premium Jeans Collection Gap


Hit your nearest Gap store today to check out their new 1960 Premium Jeans Collection,  featuring comfortable, stylish pairs of jeans that go for under $60!  

Staying fashionable without sacrificing comfort, Gap's new jean collection includes an array of styles that fit every body shape and lifestyle. 

Shop for their "Perfect Boot, "Sexy Boot", "Real Straight", "Long and Lean", Curvy" and "Always Skinny" styles in regular, petite and tall sizes today and enjoy $20 off for a limited time only. Gap's new 1960 Premium Jeans Collection - available in different washes, colors and distressed jean styles -  are making designer jeans rethink their price tags.


Ashlee Simpson-Wentz Gap
Ashlee Simpson-Wentz at the West Hollywood launch party 
for Gap's 1960 Premium Jeans Collection. 

Happy Shopping :)

8/12/2009

What to Wear: For Work

Business Casual 

I've had a couple of requests from readers who would like some suggestions on how to dress for a "business casual" work environment.  It's a lot easier than it sounds and there really is no excuse to look your best at work and stay on a budget.

I developed three basic looks that will take you through the week without spending a fortune. 

The Flirty, Chic and Professional Dress

Business Casual Attire Dress

This dress will fool your co-worker's eyes in many ways. First, it's a one piece dress and second, it is so affordable you'll have people lining up at your cube to ask where it's from!

When wearing a dress to work, please keep in mind the following:
  • Make sure your cleavage and back are well covered. Leave the strapless dress outside your workplace, if you want to flirt with your boss you're going to have to wait until after 5 pm. 
  • Keep your dress's length right above the knee. No one wants to see your privates when you bend over to pick up the documents you dropped on the floor. 
  • Don't be afraid of bright colors! Use them wisely and moderately. Remember you're not  a circus clown, but you don't need to match the office carpet either.

Get this look:

Sequin Hearts 2-Fer Chiffon Dress, $32.88 at Dillard's 
Double Pearl Necklace,$6 at Charlotte Russe
Mirror Bangles Set, $24 at Topshop
Framed Patent Tote in Scarlet, $44 at Newport News

I Wear the Pants at Work

Business Casual Attire Trousers

At work, you want to be both chic and comfortable, this easy and affordable business casual look is the trousers and top look.

When wearing pants and a top to work, keep in mind the following:
  • No tight pants. Leggings and stretchy, body clinging bottoms will not lead to a  promotion.  You have plenty of time to show off your tush après work. Go for the wide leg, curvy styles.
  • Buy neutral, easy to iron trousers that you can easily mix and match with cute tops.
  • Make sure your twins are hiding under that nice flirty top. Youcan be sexy and feminine   without showing the world that pair of DD's.
  • When wearing a tank top, like the one on the picture, wear a cardigan or jacket on top to go from casual to business casual. 

Get this look:

Breezy Idyll Tank, $39.95 at Anthropologie 
Pointelle Cardigan in Apple Green, $24.99 at Charlotte Russe
Wide Leg Trousers in Dark Green, $59.59 at Gap
Lauren Ralph Lauren "Alhambra" Multi Bead Cascade Earrings, $38 at Bloomingdale's 
Blu Bijoux Gold Circle Bangle Set, $17 at Max & Chloe
Deena & Ozzy Tweed Chain Bag in Brown, $42 at Urban Outfitters
Karmel Pleated Wedge, $22.99 at Payless 

The Classic Pencil Skirt
Business Casual Attire Pencil Skirt
These are some classic, must-have pieces that are perfect for business casual attire. 

When wearing a pencil skirt and button down shirt to work, keep in mind:
  • The skirt shouldn't be too tight, nor too short.
  • Make sure you're not popping out of your shirt, you don't want to blind someone with a flying button. Use a small safety pin to close any gaps.

Get this look:

Essential Stretch Long Sleeve Shirt in Pitch Black, $39.50 at Express
High-Waist Pencil Skirt in Bold Bloom, $34.75 at Express
Black Patent and Croco Bag, $39 at Newport News
Sterling Silver Shell Pearl Stud Earrings, $7.99 at Kolh's
Peep Toe Pump in Natural/Black, $49.99 at Nine West 

Happy Shopping :)

8/07/2009

The Fall Fashion Book

Leopard, Red, Grey Autumn 

Fall is probably one of my favorite seasons when it comes to fashion. The temperature usually allows you to wear some summer items while layering them with key fall pieces that you can wear right into winter.

This fall expect to see red, leopard and grays all over.

Below is a cute outfit I've put together looking forward to this fall.


Go for bold, red pieces that you can layer up with fun accessories.
Shirred Wait Tunic in Bloody Red, $28.00 at Topshop

Add leopard prints to your solid color outfits.
Leopard Mossimo Printed Cardigan, $10.48 at Target

Zippered accessories are a must this fall.
Zipper Trim Flower Headband, $5.80 at Forever 21

Add some vintage accesories to complete your look.
Hinged Owl Necklace, $22 at Fred Flare

For handbags, go with grey and plum tones.
Pleather Ring Tote in Grey, $26.80 at Forever 21

Don't forget a nice belt. Thin or wide.
Fab Slip & Snap Elastic Belt in Black/Purple, $4.50 at Forever 21

South of your ankles, wear comfortable yet chic shoes that you can easily wear with a pair of tights when needed.
Thyme Patent Pumps in Grey, $29.99 at Nine West
Lioness Flats, $39.99 at Nine West


Happy Shopping :)

7/30/2009

Skinny Jeans are a Health No, No

Recent Medical Studies Warn About Health Hazards of  Wearing Skinny Jeans
Meralgia paresthetica is not the name of an upcoming fashion designer but rather the medical condition that threatens to end with the skinny jeans trend. 

Recent medical studies show that the prolonged use of tight clothes, namely skinny jeans, has lead to an increase in meralgia paresthetica or "tingling thigh syndrome" cases. This condition is characterized by tingling, numbness and burning pain in the outer part of your thighs, caused by the compression of a nerve on your upper legs. 

The condition was usually suffered by obese people, pregnant women, and construction workers with low-slung belts. However, the skinny jeans fashion trend and killer stilettos have left more young women with a tingling sensation on their legs. 

Mayo Clinic describes "tingling thigh syndrome" symptoms as:

  • Tingling and numbness in the outer (lateral) part of your thigh
  • Burning pain in or on the surface of the outer part of your thigh
  • Less commonly, dull pain in your groin area or across your buttocks
  • In most cases, the condition can be treated by wearing loose clothes, but in severe cases drug treatment and surgery may be needed. 

    Other health risks of wearing skinny jeans include blood clots, bladder and yeast infections, digestive problems and even infertility. 

    Watch this video from The Today Show to hear expert comments on the dangers of skinny jeans. 

    Give your skinny jeans a rest, wearing them only for special occasions and making sure you have some wiggle room in them. If you can't breathe in what you're wearing, chances are you might need to switch outfits.

    For casual outings, wear the boyfriend jean instead. 

    7/29/2009

    Designer LookAlike: Burberry

    From the House of Griffindor to the House of Burberry 

    Emma Watson Burberry

    Harry Potter
    star Emma Watson is Burberry's new celebrity spokesperson. Featured in fashion magazines around the world, the ad campaign shows how Emma has grown from a muggle-blooded young wizard into a sexy and sophisticated woman. 

    Emulate Emma's Burberry style for less!

    Emma Watson Burberry
    Belted Trench Coat in gentle fawn, $49.50 at Old Navy
    Deux Lux Harness Tote in grey, $39 at Urban Outfitters

    Emma Watson Burberry
    Silence & Noise Boyfriend Blazer in black, $78 at Urban Outfitters
    MAJE Black Satin Blouse, $45 at YOOX
    Urban Renewal Chain Necklace, $38 at Urban Outfitters
    Finish Emma's look by threading a piece of black leather string on this Polished Toggle Chain Bracelet, $4.80 at Forever21


    Happy Shopping :)

    7/27/2009

    What to Wear: For Cocktails

    Wandering around the web, I stumbled upon these gorgeous dresses perfect for a night out with the girls or a date with that random guy you met onboard a plane.


    Knit Contrast Dress $39
    Sweet Lace Dress $19.80
    Feathered Mini Dress $59
    Lace and Mesh Tiered Dress $22.80
    Pleated Daisy Cocktail Dress $29.80
    All from Forever 21

    Pair them up with some sexy heels and you're ready to go!

    Happy Shopping :)

    7/22/2009

    Birdie Feathered Hair Accessories

    A little birdie told me you were looking for feather headbands...

    Feather Headband
    I was wearing this guinea feather headband today when I was approached by a young gentleman whose best-friend has been looking for similar hair accessories. 

    Of course, as FashionGypsy I felt compelled to dedicate this post today to this gal, and end her quest by featuring some of my favorite online shops and designers for feather hair accessories.  These can be worn day or night for both play, work and even on your wedding day. (Think Carrie Bradshaw.)


    Finding these quirky hair accessories can be a bit of a challenge when you encounter price tags of  $150+. However, you don't need to fly all the way up there for some of the most interesting designs. 


    Feather Hair Accessories

    Camden Town - Black Duck Feathers, Peacock, Green Goose Biot Feathers, and Black Marabou Hair Clip, $60 at Feathered by Blair Nadeau

    The Aphrodite - Ostrich, Hackle, Pheasant, and Guinea Feathers Hairpiece, $45 at LoveBIRDS by Loren

    Diana - Guinea Feathers on Thin Metal Headband, $18 by LiveInStyle at Etsy

    Ribbon Wrapped Feather Headband in Stripey Tan, $24 at Urban Outfitters 

    Exaggerated Feather Floral Headband in Turquoise, $39 at Bebe

    Happy Shopping :)

    7/20/2009

    This Fall: Boho Chic Woodstock

    Probably one of the few movies that I have been looking forward to this summer is Ang Lee's Taking Woodstock - the story of a Greenwich Village interior designer who unknowingly helped spark a historical hippie-cultural revolution by hosting the Woodstock Music and Arts Festival at his family's motel as a way to salvage his parent's property.

    Of course, I cannot think about this movie and disregard its fashion implications for this fall. I like to call it Boho Chic Woodstock.

    This fall, keep your beach hair and enjoy a season of peace and music. And please, leave the lava lamp at the frat house.
    Boho Chic Woodstock
    Watercolor-Graphic V-Neck Tee, $14.50 at Old Navy
    Mocha Colored Ankle Jeans, $39.99 at Gap
    Inspired by the original 1969 Woodstock Festival poster, Moleskine Woodstock Music Notebook 5x8, $17.95 at Barnes & Noble
    Paisley-Print Lightweight Scarf, $12.50 at Old Navy
    Carry your groceries in this Eco-Friendly Peace Canvas Tote, $6.98 at Target

    This season, forget about getting your boho chic jewelry at the mall.
    Ins
    tead, check out these stylish, handmade necklaces from Bead for Life. Ugandan women make these necklaces by rolling up recycled paper into colorful beads, and then sell them as a way to support their families. Bead for Life Africa





    Visit Bead for Life to learn more about their cause.
    Necklaces are about $15, you'll look fabulous and will be helping end hunger in Africa.


    Peace. Love. Start a Re
    volution. But remember, The Revolution Will Not Be Televised.

    Happy Shopping :)

    7/19/2009

    What to Wear: Sunday Brunch


    My favorite part of Sundays is, of course, brunch time. Eggs benedict, mimosas and some fresh pastries on the side. Realizing that the weekend is over... not so much.

    While getting ready for brunch this morning, check out this whimsical outfit from one of my favorite stores, Anthropologie. It's perfect for brunch al fresco. 

    Anthropologie


    Happy Shopping :)


    7/17/2009

    Designer LookAlike: Chanel


    I love Chanel. It's classy, feminine and timeless. Not to mention that it was Marilyn Monroe's favorite.  I've been looking at their jelly sandals all summer and of course, I've been absolutely loving them. 


    A pair of these playful jelly chamelia sandals goes for about $295 at luxury retail stores. 

    Check out their identical twins at Forever 21, for $5.50! This absolutely beats Neiman's Last Call sale this week! Plus, you can take them to the beach without worrying too much about spilling your piña colada or tanning oil all over them. 
    Happy Shopping :)



    7/14/2009

    The Modern Mary Poppins Bag

    (Summer) Handbag Essentials

    Small bags are cute at night, but during the day you need a bag that can fit everything you need while on the go.

    I call them my "Mary Poppins" bags, they're comfortable, chic and fit 
    everything I need to go through the day- minus the coat hanger!

    These are a couple of things I must always carry in my bag, especially 
    during hot summer days.
    Great for the beach, relaxing over the weekend or even for work.
    Felix Rey Large Canvas Tote $22.48 at Target

    Apply around eyes in the morning to illuminate eye area and keep it in 
    your purse for quick touch-ups. It's great for covering dark circles under your eyes! Lemon Aid by Benefit Cosmetics , $20.

    Keep your eyes safe from the sun rays with Oversize "Tortoise" 
    Sunglasses, $16.99 at  Overstock.com

    The swine flu is this summer's health threat. Keep your hands clean 
    and smelling great with Bath & Body Works Anti-Bacterial Hand Gel, 
    $1.00 available in different scents.

    Dare to be wild with bright, neon nail polish colors. My pick: Essie's 

    Prevent a faux-pas and stay in style. Check out the new Moxie Slenders which come with a cute purse-ready boudoir style tin, 
    $4.99 at Duane Reade drugstores in N.Y. and N.J. (available soon throughout the U.S.)

    The key to great skin is hydrating and moisturizing your skin regularly. In addition to drinking plenty of water everyday,
    I like to always have a bottle of Evian Brumisateur Facial Spray,
    $5.50 for a 50ml (1.7 oz) travel size bottle. Simply spray it on to feel refreshed and hydrate your skin.

    And of course, my favorite handbag essential, a flirty Spanish hand fan to keep myself cool while at the beach or just walking around. 


    Happy Shopping :)

    *Reply to his post with your favorite handbag essentials for a chance to try Moxie products even before they reach your city (supplies are limited). 

    7/11/2009

    Pretty-little-Ouch! Shoes

    So, you're getting ready for a fun Saturday night out and contemplating whether you should wear those awesome high heels that everyone just drools over but are too tight on your feet, or go for the plain old wedges that add very little to that beautiful outfit. 

    Whether you bought the shoes on sale and they didn't have your size - but they were so fabulous you had to get them- or they are a bit too narrow for your feet... there is a solution.

    Check out this video tutorial for an easy and inexpensive way to stretch out those shoes you absolutely love and can't wear for more than 2 minutes! 




    Also, try Band Aid's Friction Block Stick or Band Aid's Activ-Flex Blister Block Stick to prevent foot casualties after a night of endless dancing in sexy heels. These come in an easy and mess-free applicator stick that you can carry in your purse (approximately $6.99 at drugstores). 

    Band Aid Blister Block
    Happy Dancing!

    7/07/2009

    Michael Jackson: A Fashion Memorial

    From the King of Pop to the King of Fashion...

    Today celebrities, fans and friends of Michael Jackson gathered at the Los Angeles' Staples Center to remember the life and music of who has been often called a "music genius". 

    To join the worldwide celebration (and inspire frugal fashion friends), FashionGypsy features on this post 5 looks inspired by Michael Jackson's distinct wardrobe. And of course, these price tags are far from the 4 figure + outfits that MJ wore for decades.

    Thriller Look: Bright Skinny Jeans and Motorcycle Jackets

    Michael Jackson Fashion

    Ankle-zip red skinny jeans $12.50 at Wet Seal
    Red fleece motorcycle jacket $58 at Urban Outfitters

    The Eclectic Soldier Look: Military Jackets
    Michael Jackson Fashion
    Military-esque blazer $26.99 at Charlotte Russe

    The Neverland Look: Oversized Blazers
    Michael Jackson Fashion


    The Shining Star Look: Sequined Boleros
    Michael Jackson Fashion
    Worth the splurge!
    Sequin bolero $170 at Topshop

    Moonwalk Accessories
    Michael Jackson Fashion
    Black fedora $12.99 at Charlotte Russe
    Sequin flats $70 at Piperlime



    Happy shopping :)