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New Year’s Eve Style

December 2009

Alright, so you have your New Year’s Eve dress, your jewelry and your shoes, but where can you stash your lipstick, cards, camera and sparkly noisemaker so they’re all easily accessible? In a cute clutch, of course!

You may have a stash of go-to clutch purses in your closet, but NYE calls for something flashier—something more daring! It’s the start of a new decade, and what better way to celebrate by looking fabulous for a great price. I’ve gathered together five cute clutches under $25 that you can snag last minute at your local shopping mall, so you can stick to your budget and still look like a million bucks!

Forever 21 is a great place to buy trendy pieces because they have amazing prices and you won’t have to worry about dishing out a couple hundred for something that will go out of style next season (and probably back in style in a year or two)! Their Stone Blossom Clutch is made of striped taffeta and faux leather, bedazzled with jewel accents. It would look great with a purple frock or a LBD, and it’s a bargain at just $19. (Photo from www.Forever21.com)

Charlotte Russe has a simpler Rhinestone Kisslock Box Clutch in plain black. This one is perfect if you’re wearing a bright colored dress or anything with a bold pattern. It’s effortlessly chic and goes with anything and everything. Keep in mind, the stuffed-full factor is high in a small clutch like this one, so be sure to cut down your essentials to the bare minimum. This one is $16.99.

I don’t normally go into Hot Topic very often because I’m out of my rebellious phase and all their Hello Kitty paraphernalia freaks me out, but they do have some seriously awesome bags and funny t-shirts! The Silver and Black Bow Clutch is adorable and at just $16.99, I wish they came in every color of the rainbow. It almost looks like a cute little gift package—very fitting for you to snag for yourself after all that holiday shopping for your family! (Photo from www.HotTopic.com)

I love love LOVE the Asymmetrical Flap Sequin Bag from The Limited. The original price on it was nearly $45, but it’s on sale for just $24.99! It has a detachable strap so you can either wear it as a shoulder bag or carry it as a clutch (I’m in huge favor of the latter) and the allover sequins are so NYE and so in right now! I’ve seen it in person, and let me tell you—it’s absolutely encrusted in sequins that shimmer black on one side and gunmetal silver on the other, so you can play with the knap to make it a combination of both colors, if you like. How cool is that?! It’s also available in gold. (Photo from www.TheLimited.com)

The Wristlet Bow Detail Café Bag from White House Black Market is probably the cutest thing I’ve ever seen, with its Celtic knot and tassel magnetic snap. I suggest getting it in red (the black one is also on sale) to jazz up any LBD or sparkly silver ensemble. It is rather small, but it’s totally worth downsizing because of how adorable it is, and it’s on sale right now for just $19.99! (Photo from www.WhiteHouseBlackMarket.com)

And now, you’re probably finished your last-minute NYE outfit and accessory shopping, so go out with friends, look fabulous, take pictures, make memories and have a very Happy and Stylish New Year!!!

Note: No samples were received for these reviews.

-Keri

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New Year’s Eve Style

December 2009

If you love dressing up for special occasions, there’s no celebration quite as exciting as New Years’ Eve. The glitz, the glamour, the sequins! Mini dresses and high heels abound in every girl’s hopes of beginning a stylish new year.

Whether you have plans to enjoy a fancy dinner and champagne celebration out in the city, or spend the evening at home entertaining friends with fine wine, or even if you don’t have any plans yet, looking fresh and fantastic is always part of the equation. No matter your style and body type (and despite the fact that you may have overindulged on edible goodies a bit this Christmas), there’s a dress that will make you feel sexy and turn a few heads this NYE. And there’s still time to snag a great dress for a great price!

Thanks to the masters of sexy at Frederick’s of Hollywood, who are most well known for their edgy, feminine and naughty lingerie, there’s a wide variety of stunning and affordable clothing fit for the naughty and the nice. They have tight and flowy dresses, classic styles and sexy detailing, and they’re having a great sale right now—up to 70% OFF!!

The stretch satin dress is ultra feminine with ruching on the bust and down the front for a flattering fit. The back shows a hint of skin with a satin bow to finish the look. It comes in a few different colors, my favorite being charcoal, which just so happens to be on sale for $49.99 right now! The fabric does have a little give to it, but keep in mind this is a more body-hugging style, so pay close attention to the handy sizing chart.

For the envelope-pushing fashionista, a statement LBD is more your style. This deep V-neck dress has retro 80s-style shoulder detail, but ruching on the bust keeps it fresh. Also be conscious of the slim silhouette of this one. Keep your accessories on the demure side to balance the strong shoulders and prepare to get a lot of stares.

To accent your “top,” try a halter dress with flowy chiffon. The paneled satin bust gives structure while the open back provides instant sex appeal. The loose chiffon will soften your curves and make you look gorgeous! It comes in black or red at $69 and in hot pink or purple for just $39.99. Don’t be afraid to wear a statement accessory with this one, like some sparkly, long earrings or a chunky cuff bracelet.

I don’t care what anyone says—flappers did it right. For a surprising and trendy NYE, this ombré fringe dress starts the party and keeps it going until well past midnight. Plenty of wiggle room in the accessories department—go for long strands of pearls and rhinestones or stack tons of silver bangles up your arm. Just imagine how great you’ll look shimmying on the dance floor!

Lastly, I have to highlight the dress that I bought from Frederick’s—the goddess dress. Talk about back detailing, this dress is amazing! The deep V-neck is flattering to your bustline while the high waist is flattering to your waistline. The horizontal and vertical black bands are a surprising twist to the typical open back. The fabric is a polyester/spandex blend that’s smooth to the touch with lots of give. I plan to wear it with footless tights and high heels in a surprising color—purple!

Reminder: If you choose a style with an open or strappy back, don’t forget a coordinating versatile bra!!

Note: No samples were received for this review. Images are from www.Fredericks.com.

-Keri

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Stocking Stuffer Edition

Dec. 11-13

The tradition of the Christmas stocking has always fascinated me. Some stories say the custom evolved from when Dutch children would put their clogs by the fire to be filled with small tokens and gifts during the holidays. Other stories say it evolved from a story about a poor man with three daughters who left their stockings to dry by the fire and woke to find them filled with gold coins.

No matter the true story (if there is one!), I love the tradition of filling stockings with little treasures to enjoy during the holidays—from cookies and chocolates to jewelry and accessories, it’s always exciting to unwrap miniature gifts on Christmas morning. They don’t have to be expensive to be fun and thoughtful! Here’s a list of five great stocking stuffer ideas for your dearest friends and family.

YoYo Lip gloss

How many times have you dug around the bottom of your handbag in a futile attempt to locate your lip gloss? I couldn’t even begin to guess how many times it’s happened to me! Cue YoYo lip gloss—lip gloss that’s attached to a retractable cord with a clip at the end. Just clip it to your bag and when your lips are feeling naked, you’ll know exactly where your gloss is! Priced at just $2.99, it’s a great stocking stuffer that’ll come in handy for women of all ages. (Photo from yoyolipgloss.com)

 18 nail colors in 6 bottles?! 

 We recently heard about Wet Paint Shop, a company that created a nail glaze system that’s like a paint palette for your nails. Each set of six nail colors includes three base coats and three glaze colors—wear each on its own or paint one base coat and one glaze coat to create a totally different color that changes right before your eyes! That’s like having 18 nail colors in six bottles! There’s a “bold” set of bright shades of blue, green, yellow and red, and there’s a “pastel” set of peaches, pinks and lavenders. Stuff the stocking of your most artistic and fashion forward friend with a set of these for just $29.99! (Photo from WetPaintShop.com)

 Three pack of panties.

 I love lingerie because it’s a gift for a woman or a man—your man, in particular. Imagine the look on his face when he reaches in his stocking and pulls out a three pack of sexy, sheer panties, like these from Express. There’s a “Nice” pair, a “Naughty” pair and a plain pair, and his gift is choosing which ones you get to wear! A guaranteed night of romance is sure to follow with this stocking stuffer!

 Ultra-fragrant soap.

 Everyone in the world knows I love Etsy by now because I’m always mentioning all the great stuff I find on the website. I checked out their suggested stocking stuffers section and found these amazing soaps. They almost remind me of the bath products at Lush, but they’re much more affordable. I may have to get a few of these and test them out myself! They come in all sorts of fun scents like ginger lime and pink grapefruit—there’s even a chocolate one! With that great handmade look, they’re a great gift for just about anyone on my list. (Photo from Etsy.com)

 Simple, cute “friendship” bracelets.

I’m always on the lookout for jazzed up friendship bracelets—not the multi-color, braided and twisted embroidery floss friendship bracelets from my childhood, but grownup friendship bracelets. I found some by the cash register at my local Express that are made of leather cord and miniature metal beads. They come in a few different colors—I suggest getting several of each for your friends to wear all at once. And I promise they won’t look like they just returned from summer camp!

-Keri

Keri is a 24-year-old aunt, blogger, editor,

wanna-be fashionista and marketing chick

who loves M&Ms way too much and reads

(real) books.

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Dec. 4-6

I’ve had a longtime obsession with silly screen printed bags and t-shirt, and I’ve seen so many cropping up lately that I had to pick out my five favorites to give or get.

Fred X-posed!

I saw this tote quite some time ago and thought it was so clever! It’s a black tote screen printed with an X-ray image of the bag’s “contents”—sure to confuse any airport security worker! I found it for just $11.99 on Amazon.com, making it a great gift idea for your friend with quirky style. (Photo from Amazon.com)

 Camera bag. 

 I was a photography minor in college, so this camera bag on ModCloth.com caught my eye right away. If you’re anything like me, your digital camera takes a beating in your oversized purse because you take it anywhere and everywhere with you. This cute camera bag will keep it safe in the depths of your handbag, and you’ll definitely never forget what’s inside it! (Photo from ModCloth.com)

 A “suitcase.”

 Also offered at ModCloth.com is a 100% cotton “suitcase” tote to make you feel like a world traveler—well, almost. The inside is waterproofed, so there’s no need to worry about spills. A great carry-on bag for your friend who practically lives in the airport. (Photo from ModCloth.com)

 A quirky tee.

 TshirtBooth.com offers a ton of funny shirts in any color of the rainbow, including this particular one that says “Stop destroying our planet. It’s where I keep all my stuff”—a funny way to show your support for living green. It’s a steal at $11.99. (And don’t worry–it’s unisex!) (Photo from TshirtBooth.com)

 T-shirt for the girl who has everything.

Everyone has at least one friend who is tough to buy for because she seems like she has everything—no generic gift of scented candles or bath and body products will do. This chandelier tee from Etsy.com is quite the unique find, and you can guarantee she’ll be the only one on the block wearing something so cheekily one-of-a-kind. It’s 100% cotton, of course! (Photo from Etsy)

-Keri

Keri is a 24-year-old aunt, blogger, editor,

wanna-be fashionista and marketing chick

who loves M&Ms way too much and reads

(real) books.

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Nov. 20-22

Not that I have much extra cash to spare to splurge on anything for myself due to a holiday shopping for friends and family obsession, but I find that I do like to treat myself to something from time to time. Whether it’s because I’ve shaved a few minutes off my three-mile morning run or because I’ve paid all my monthly bills way ahead of time, there are occasions when I feel I deserve something that makes me look and feel good. Here’s a list of five things I would splurge a little for, just to reward myself.

An essential black mini.

Every woman should have an LBD (or two) and an LBS—a Little Black Skirt. This high-waisted version from Express is a great pick because it opens up unlimited options—wear it with a tight, low-cut top for ultimate sex appeal or pair with a more demure, looser-fitting top and a boyfriend blazer. It is a little pricey at $59.50, so I would probably wait for a bit of a sale to splurge on this one.

 Flower necklace. 

 I’ve been wanting to get a big statement necklace like this for some time, but I haven’t found the perfect one on which to splurge a little. Most of my jewelry is of the very cheap, trendy variety, except for a few higher-end pieces I’ve received as gifts, so $30 for a necklace really is a bit of a splurge for me. This multi-flower necklace at New York & Company really grabs attention and adds instant flare to a solid colored scoop neck top. Photo from www.nyandcompany.com.

 Strappy black sandals.

 DSW has these Seychelles Red Eye platform sandals, normally $90, for just $29.94 on clearance! They would actually NOT be a splurge, but it certainly would feel like it. They got excellent comfort ratings from customers and they come in black, dark brown and a light bubblegum pink—I love choices!

 A classy holiday party dress.

 This double V-neck dress in deep purple from JC Penney is definitely a splurge for me, but it’s totally worth it because it’s a timeless piece in a stunning color. The low cut of the top is balanced nicely with the longer hemline, so as long as I stay the same dress size, I can wear this for years to come!

 A fabulous faux diamond ring.

 Since the real thing is way out of my price range, I’m a pro at finding faux diamond jewelry that’s still nice, but much, much more affordable. Colored diamonds are kind of my thing when it comes to diamond fashion pieces, so this yellow cubic zirconia antique-y ring is right up my alley. I found it at Target! It’s not too big or too small, so it’s eye-catching without the “Oh my God, what the heck is that on your hand?!” reaction. Photo from www.target.com.

-Keri

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Nov. 6-8

Not only does ModCloth have amazing vintage clothing, but they offer a wide variety of vintage-inspired and kitschy accessories—think gold-toned pretzel necklaces and a coin purse that looks exactly like a real chocolate chip cookie.

But don’t get me wrong—not everything is food-themed and tongue-in-cheek. There are also some absolutely fabulous handbags to pine over and great statement jewelry to put on your holiday wish list. I’ve gathered a list of some of my favorites, but definitely check out the website because they update it frequently!

Remember Ring.

You’ll never forget to send a birthday card, pay a bill or run an errand again with this cute little bow ring. It’s adjustable for a comfy fit, and it’s the most stylish way to be the Fashionista Who Never Forgets.

 The Sonnets Charm Bracelet. 

 Charm bracelets will always be “in” in my opinion, and this option is definitely fun and unique. It has nine crests reminiscent of the days of Shakespearean sonnets and nobility. Wear it as a reminder that you don’t have to have a lot of money to feel like royalty.

 Imperial Highness Pin.

 Give a plain peacoat a burst of color with this feathered pin. It reminds me of the crazy feathered hairpieces Keira Knightley wore in The Duchess, and it’s the perfect feathered accessory if you think you look goofy in a feathered headband.

 Raining Cats and Dogs Umbrella.

 If you hate rainy days, this umbrella will definitely cheer you up! The top is plain black, but the underside is printed with colorful cats and dogs. It’s sure to make you smile when you’re puddle-hopping to the office in heels (or big, clunky rain boots).

 Stagecoach Purse.

 I love dark “leather” (I never buy real leather), so when I spotted this bag on ModCloth, with its woven detail and swivel hook fastener, I fell in love. It’s faux-leather, of course, and the strap looks almost like a chain. This is the kind of bag I would traipse around the city with because it’s great for carrying the essentials, especially a camera. 

All photos are courtesy of ModCloth.com.

-Keri

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Oct. 23-25

I will be in Atlantic City tomorrow, celebrating the birthday of someone special, and in honor of all things gaudy and outrageous, I’ve gathered together a mini collection of fashions that remind me of those crazy, loud casinos. From glitter and sequins to bright colors and statement pieces—there’s a little piece of flashy Atlantic City style in all of us.

Tina Turner dress.

I saw this blue sequined dress in Express last time I was at the mall searching for my AC outfit, and I really really loved it—definitely something I would find a reason to wear. You can either wear it with or without leggings underneath for different options and different looks. I suggest pairing it with a more demure blazer or go all out and wear a military-style or motorcycle jacket.

 High, high (hooker?) boots. 

 Found these amazing zippered booties at DSW for a semi-reasonable price. They’re not something you will find on any other gambler/partier at AC because they’re unique statement fashion at its best. Dare to wear them as you strut around the casinos—they received great comfort ratings on DSW.com, so your feet will love you for treating them right and making them look fantastic.

 A crazy crystal ring.

 I realize it’s a bit of a splurge, but I couldn’t help but mention this Swarovski crystal abstract flower ring. It’s huge and chaotic and crazy—just like the casinos at good ol’ AC. Plus, it’ll distract the other card sharks at the poker table from your less-than-perfect poker face.

 Feather hairpin.

 I have a (not-so) secret obsession with feather hairpins, and there’s literally two places I would have the guts to wear one—New York City and Atlantic City. Some of them can run up quite a tab—especially if they’re handmade by an independent artist like most are—but I managed to find a ton of affordable options just by searching on eBay. I would post a link to the one I found that I liked, but it only has a day of bidding left. It’s a circular cluster of short, bright turquoise feathers with longer iridescent black peacock feathers, and it’s huge at 7.5 inches in diameter. Order one in a shocking color and feel like a sassy showgirl.

 Ruffly purple clutch.

 Try a Steve Madden ruffled clutch to add texture to your AC outfit. The studs keep it light on the girly side of things, and the price won’t cut into your gambling fund. Should you choose to wear all of the fashions I’ve mentioned here, you’ll look like a fantastic mess of Atlantic City gaudy-fashion.

-Keri

Keri is a 24-year-old aunt, blogger, editor,

wanna-be fashionista and marketing chick

who loves M&Ms way too much and reads

(real) books.

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Oct. 16-18

If you don’t like Halloween, you’re crazy. Who doesn’t love a chance to wear a crazy outfit and pretend to be someone else for a night?! And uh…I don’t think I even have to mention the candy and treats you get to eat!

In honor of my favorite holiday, I gathered together a short—but fantastic—list of Halloween-inspired jewelry from Etsy made by independent artists. I listed the artists’ names, too, so you can check out what other goodies they have to offer.

Raven earrings.

 Two simple black birds hang from oxidized sterling silver wire. Simple and not too Halloween-y that you couldn’t wear them all year long. Listed by Etsy user joyfulmoon.

 Skeleton cameo ring. 

The Halloween cocktail ring done right. It’s very reminiscent of Guns ‘N’ Roses, in my opinion, so I pretty much love it. I would be tempted to wear it regardless of the holiday because it would be a great conversation-starter. Listed by user ivcreations55.

 Pumpkin earrings.

If you’d rather stay away from the “scarier” jewelry options, these pumpkin earrings are super cute and kosher right up until Thanksgiving. Pair them with a cozy sweater at a family get-together. Also listed by user ivcreations55.

Rose ring.

I absolutely love this silver rose ring because it’s definitely not Halloween-specific and would look so chic with a little black dress. It’s actually made out of clay, which surprised me because it looks like brushed sterling silver. It would look great with a witch costume! Listed by user Morado.

 Good Witch necklace.

 Speaking of witches, this “Good Witch” necklace is cute and very tongue-in-cheek. Let everyone know (or trick everyone into thinking) that you’re the good witch this Halloween! Listed by user LittleGreenRoom.

DISCLAIMER: No samples were received for any of the reviews above. Photos are from each individual Etsy user.

-Keri

Keri is a 24-year-old aunt, blogger, editor,

wanna-be fashionista and marketing chick

who loves M&Ms way too much and reads

(real) books.

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Fashion Picks

Oct. 9-11

For the past two years, the wide belt has both intrigued and confused me—why wear a belt over my shirt? Why wear a belt that doesn’t hold my pants up? Why wear a belt that huge?! But I finally get it. The wide belt is an accessory that serves a purpose—it creates that sexy hourglass figure that every woman craves. And with all the cute, sexy and stylish wide belts out there, it’s way too hard to choose one—so here are my 5 favorites.

Asymmetrical.

 This first pick was intimidating at first, but in a good way—it’s a bit outside-the-box, and I love it. It’s Express’s mixed media belt with a snakeskin texture and self-tie. It’s pictured on a gray shirt, but I would try it with purple or bright pink for a striking, bold overall look.

 Girly girl. 

I was out shopping with a friend when I spotted this cream-colored, rose buckle belt at Wet Seal on one of their mannequins. The mannequin was wearing a purple and black dress, which looked like a tank top and skirt combo. The cream color was such a surprising addition, in my opinion, but I loved it.

 Bright color.

I’m a fan of multiple-buckle belts, but this one from New York & Company caught my eye because of its surprising hue—bright blue! If you have blue eyes, it’s a must-have. Even if you don’t have blue eyes, it’s so eye-catching and unexpected that I would dig through my closet for hours to find as many outfits as possible that match it!

Studded.

I’m convinced that I was a biker in a past life because as much as I pretend not to like overly studded accessories, sometimes I just can’t not like them. This multi-tone studded belt adds instant edge to any outfit. I’m not crazy about the number on the price tag, so I’ll be waiting for it to go on sale—or for it to appear on the racks at my local Guess outlet!

 Equestrian.

 New York & Company also offers a wide belt with Western-inspired flair. The brushed gold buckle and cut-out detail will add that little-something-extra to your plaid button-down tunic. Guaranteed to make you look fantastic on or off your trusty horse.

-Keri

Keri is a 24-year-old aunt, blogger, editor,

wanna-be fashionista and marketing chick

who loves M&Ms way too much and reads

(real) books.

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Fashion Picks

Oct. 2-4

Accessories, ladies. Accessories. They’re just as important as wearing underwear everyday (take note Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan and Tara Reid) because they can truly make an outfit unforgettable. Don’t be afraid to spend a little money on them—I know I tend to skimp on them at times because I forget how they add instant style. No excuses this weekend—ACCESSORIZE!! 

Photo: Guess

A modern charm bracelet.

You might be turned off of charm bracelets because they’re too “young” for your taste, but I suggest you challenge your taste and give this wing charm bracelet from Guess a try! It’s two shades of silver and gold-tone, so it’ll satisfy your hunger for both metals, and you’ll get that wonderful jangling sound if you often talk with your hands. Try the matching earrings if you think the bracelet is a little too daring.

Photo: Guess

 Finger bling.

 A big cocktail ring immediately ups the ante on any outfit, and I’m drawn to floral motifs like this big rhinestone and pearl flower ring, also from Guess. Slip it on your finger and let everyone admire it while you sip a cocktail or hail a cab.

Photo: Charlotte Russe

 Fancy hairwear.

 I’ve always wanted to be daring enough to try a little hat/veil combo like this one from Charlotte Russe. It’s attached to a headband, which means no bobby-pinning it in place and then worrying about it slipping out for the rest of the night. This is, of course, not for your average night out. So give it a shot for your next fancy event!

 A clutch purse.

 I’m always enamored with Nine West’s delicious handbags, and this little clutch is no exception. The chain detail is definitely in-season and the color is fantastic—sometimes it’s nice to shy away from black (I can’t believe I just said that) when you’re out on the town. (Photo: Nine West)

Photo: PacSun

 A casual scarf.

 If you’re more of a casual kinda girl, a slouchy, wrinkled scarf in a nice cream color, like this one from PacSun, is the perfect pick over your band favorite band t-shirt. It’s great for trekking through the streets on a chilly night when you’re headed out to catch some live music.

-Keri

Keri is a 24-year-old aunt, blogger, editor,

wanna-be fashionista and marketing chick

who loves M&Ms way too much and reads

(real) books.