Fashion Under $100: 2/1/11

28 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: March Wedding

Reader Request

My best friend is getting married in Philly in March so I need an outfit! I myself am getting married in August so currently my style is very romantic, floral and a little bit vintage, but nothing too wacky because I'm mostly a classics girl. I'm 5'4 and generally wear a 14/16 in dresses and pants and large size in tops. I'm only comfortable in sleeveless stuff in the summer when it's absolutely necessary so I would prefer sleeves or a cardy. And the wedding will be semi-formal, definitely not black tie.

This bright, festive outfit will be perfect - romantic and classic, but modern and fun. It comes from Ruche, Endless and Aldo and costs $94.78.

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Taylor Swift's Style for $93.22

Reader Request

Taylor's simple, nautical-inspired outfit has me craving spring weather something fierce. Get her look for less with items from Kohl's, ASOS, Old Navy and Urban Originals.

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Black Stripe Top $13.99

Red Skirt $43.03

Bow Flats $16.90

Brown Crossbody Bag $19.50

25 February 2011

Isla Fisher's Style for $99.20

Reader Request

It's been a while since we saw Isla Fisher on the red carpet, and she's totally working her sexy blue frock. Get her look for a steal from Dillard's, Shoe Reflex, Kohl's and Forever 21.

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Blue Strapless Dress $47.40

Silver Satin Pumps $25.00

Champagne Clutch $21.00

Gold Bracelets $5.80

24 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Going Away Party

Reader Request

My fiancé and I are moving to Portland in a few weeks, and our friends are throwing us a going-away party at a karaoke bar. I'd like to wear a casual dress or skirt and I want to look cute but not too overdone. I love prints and bright colors. We live in southern California right now so it's still pretty warm. Any suggestions?

This flirty look will be perfect for your party. It costs $98.52 and you can buy it at Modcloth, Forever 21 and ASOS.

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Rachel Bilson's Style for $97.27

Reader Request

When you've got a classic coat, fuzzy boots and a hot bag, it doesn't matter that you're only wearing a tee and leggings! Get Rachel's casual look for less with items from Delia's, Forever 21, Hot Topic, Kohl's and $15 Store.

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Black Double-Breasted Coat $39.99

Grey Tee $6.99

Black Leggings $4.50

Tan Fur Boots $15.00

Black Studded Handbag $24.99

Black Sunglasses $5.80

23 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Husband's Gig

Reader Request

I recently had a baby, and have not been on a date with my husband since the weekend before I gave birth. February 26th will be our first date night and our first night away from our daughter all night. My husband plays in a band and his band is playing a bar. I will be going with him. In the past I would have just worn a t-shirt or hoodie, jeans, and sneakers, but I want to dress up a little and remind him that I can still be hot even if I am a new mom. Most people will be wearing jeans and t-shirts so I don't want to be too dressed up and out of place. I will also be seeing friends I haven't seen in several months or maybe even a year so I want to look GOOD!!!! I am a size L/XL on top and a 16 on bottom. Any ideas?

This look is casual but sexy, and perfect for a show at a bar. It comes from Arden B, Forever 21, Urban OG and DSW. The grand total is $91.63.

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Selena Gomez's Style for $92.58

Reader Request

What an adorable warm-weather outfit! Selena, as usual, looks fantastic. Get a cheaper version of her look with items from Forever 21, Kohl's and Topshop.

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Cream Chiffon Blouse $29.80

Denim Shorts $17.99

Brown Sandals $19.80

Studded Bracelet $14.99

Hoop Earrings $10.00

22 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Casual Not-Yet-Maternity Outfit

Reader Request

I would love your help putting together a cute casual outfit for my changing body shape. I'm three months pregnant, and although I'm not really showing yet, I usually favour a cinched-waist, '50s silhouette which is definitely not going to be an option for much longer. I'd love a suggestion for a cute errand-running type day look which allows a bit of room for a belly. I don't really need (or want) maternity clothes yet, but I'm at a bit of a loss finding a middle-ground between between my old, tailored wardrobe and big maternity sacks. Any help you could offer would be greatly appreciated.

This look is comfy without sacrificing the style, with a blousy top, stretchy jeggings, and forgiving flats. You can buy it at Forever 21, Arden B, American Eagle, Wet Seal and Topshop for just $94.28.

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Lauren Conrad's Style for $99.77

LC always comes up with sweet, ladylike outfits, and this one is no exception. Get her look for less with pieces from her own collection at Kohl's, as well as Aldo and Forever 21.

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Floral Belted Dress $41.99

Black Platform Sandals $49.98

Gold Bracelet $7.80

21 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Not-So-Surprise Wedding Shower

Reader Request

My bridal shower is fast approaching and I have no idea what to wear. It is supposed to be a surprise, but long story short - I know about it, but no one other than my fiance knows that I know. My dilemma? I have no idea what to wear. I am going to get a mani/pedi with my Matron of Honor that day and I'd usually just bum around in yoga pants and a cute hoodie. I know my mom would be disappointed if I showed up dressed for the gym. Any suggestions? I'd like to keep my secret that I know about the shower, so I can't overdress.

This outfit is perfect for your shower. It's cute but not overdone, and nobody would believe that you didn't wear it just to get a mani/pedi. It comes from Modcloth, Target and Forever 21 and rings up at just $98.77.

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Diane Kruger's Style for $90.89

Reader Request

I'm a huge fan of unexpected color combos, and Diane, always one of my favorite stylistas, pulls off coral and teal with aplomb. Get her look on the cheap with pieces from Target, Urban Original, $15 Store and Arden B.

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Coral Dress $27.99

Teal Sandals $23.90

Black Watch $15.00

Chandelier Earrings $24.00

18 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: First Time Meeting

Reader Request

I met a guy online a few months ago and we're finally planning on meeting in person for the first time. I really, really like this guy so I want to make a great first impression in-person. He's taking me to a trendy-yet-casual sushi place, so I don't want to overdo it, but I really want to look great. Can you help?

I sure can! This eye-catching look will definitely grab his attention, but without looking like you tried too hard. This look costs $99.59 from Modcloth, $15 Store and Forever 21.

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Emmy Rossum's Style for $98.30

I don't know about you, but I am so ready for winter to be over. So looking at a fun, springy outfit like this is just what I need to get pumped for warm weather. Get Emmy's look for less with pieces from Delia's, Forever 21 and Urban OG.

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Floral Dress $49.50

Black Belt $6.80

Grey Pumps $21.20

Black Woven Bag $15.00

Sunglasses $5.80

17 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Casual Bridal Shower

Reader Request

My bridal shower is in a few weeks, and I've decided that, no matter how taboo it may be, I'd rather just wear jeans. My mom is freaking out over this, but I'm sticking my ground. Still, I think I need your help in putting together a jeans look that's still really feminine. Any ideas?

This look will be perfect for your bridal shower (and I don't think it's taboo at all to wear jeans). This look comes from Ruche, Forever 21 and Wet Seal and costs $99.53.

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Nicole Richie's Style for $94.54

Reader Request

Nicole always nails the rocker chick/boho looks like nobody else. Dress like her for less with pieces from Roxy, Wet Seal, Windsor Store, and the Jessica Simpson Collection.

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Gold Fringe Necklace $10.80

Gold Bracelet $8.90

16 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Bachelorette Dinner

Reader Request

My bachelorette party is in a few weeks. Since I'm not a fan of clubbing, we're having dinner downtown at a nice but casual restaurant and then spending the rest of the night at a wine and cheese bar. It's going to be relaxing and not too fancy, but I still want to look pretty special. Any suggestions?

This look is casual enough to be comfy, but still flirty and just a bit upscale. You can buy it at Forever 21, the Gap, Kohl's and Wet Seal for just $95.69.

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January Jones's Style for $98.31

Reader Request

I really enjoy putting together very casual daytime looks, because that's what most people wear most of the time. This outfit that January is wearing is nothing outstanding, but she looks comfy and adorable. Get her look on the cheap from stores like Alloy, Cutesy Girl and ASOS.

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White Henley $16.50

Skinny Jeans $19.99

Black Knee-High Boots $16.99

Red Mirror Sunglasses $6.99

Gold Watch $44.83

15 February 2011

Online Sample Sales: Save on Designer Items

Source

Online sample sales are the best way to get your hands on designer items without spending a fortune. Here are some of my favorite sample sale sites, and links to how you can sign up to get the skinny on the best deals. Check them every day, because they're always updating their sales.

The Savvy Stylist: Trendy Office

Reader Request

I just got a job at a very trendy but casual office. My old work clothes (dress pants and button-down shirts) are too conservative and stuffy, but my weekend clothes (leggings and sneakers) are too casual. We're allowed to wear anything we want, but I want to look sophisticated, without looking like I've tried too hard. Can you help?

I hope that this outfit meets your needs! It comes from Urban Outfitters, Wet Seal and Forever 21 and costs just $99.72.

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Eva Longoria's Style for $93.29

I tend to prefer Eva's street style (casual, sophisticated) to her red carpet style, since she tends to be a bit over-the-top. Get her easygoing look for under $100 from stores like Dillard's, Kohl's and Tilly's.

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Cropped Sweater $23.40

Skinny Jeans $15.00

Beige Sandals $16.40

Beige Handbag $18.99

Teardrop Earrings $1.50

Black Sunglasses $18.00

14 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Afternoon Wedding at Country Club

Reader Request

I was wondering if you could create an outfit for me. I'm 5'5, 140 lbs and I need an outfit for an afternoon wedding at a country club. I can't wear anything shorter than knee length because of a birthmark so something in between a maxi dress and a short cocktail dress would be great. I'm not too picky about colors, something summery and light would be nice but the party does go into the night so anything is fine. Thanks!

This light, summery look will take you from daytime to evening with ease. It costs $94.69 and comes from Old Navy, Urban OG, Kohl's and The Limited.

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Jessica Szohr's Style for $95.48

Reader Request

I didn't realize how much I'd missed seeing Jessica Szohr around, because I think it's been a while. I really dig her classic yet modern and casual look. Get her look for less with items from Old Navy, Arden B., Target and Forever 21.

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White Button-Down Top $24.50

Black Skinny Jeans $39.99

Black Peep-Toe Pumps $24.99

Bracelets $6.80

11 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Girls' Night

Reader Request

I'm in my early thirties and have an upcoming girls night out - dinner, drinks and dancing. I want something stylish but age and weather appropriate as it is cold and snowy here. Any suggestions?

Wearing this, you'll be edgy enough for the club but still age-appropriate. The sleeves and tights will keep you warm. It costs $94.25 and comes from ASOS. NY & Co., Target, Macy's and Aldo.

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Nicole Richie's Style for $95.52

Reader Request

Adorable, no? This is how you do comfy airport chic. Nicole's red coat is to die for. Get a more affordable version of her outfit with picks from Forever 21, Charlotte Russe, JC Penney and Catherine's.

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Red Coat $37.80

Black Leggings $7.99

Black Mary Jane Flats $19.99

Black Chain Handbag $19.99

Black Hat $5.80

Round Sunglasses $3.95

10 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Valentine's Day Trip

Reader Request

This is my first Valentine's Day with my boyfriend, and I want to make it special. We're planning on taking a day trip to a cute little colonial town that has nice shopping and restaurants and the like. I want to look festive and romantic, but also not go too overboard, especially since we'll be walking around in the middle of a New England winter. I'm also in college, so I want to look fun and young, not too adult and cliché. Thanks for your help!

This look will keep you warm on your romantic day. It comes from Macy's, Forever 21, The Limited and $15 Store and costs just $97.75.

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Rachel Bilson's Style for $94.29

Another day, another cute, casual and cozy look from Miz Bilson. Get a frugal version of this look with items from Forever 21, Old Navy, and Urban OG.

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Cable Knit Cardigan $32.80

Black Tee $8.50

Skinny Cuffed Jeans $15.00

White Flats $17.20

Brown Handbag $14.99

Black Sunglasses $5.80

09 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Baby Shower Guest

Reader Request

I'm attending my sister-in-law's baby shower in two weeks and I need an outfit that is cute and feminine. I have a hard time finding outfits in my size that make me feel confident and stylish since I don't want to look like I'm trying too hard.I'm 5'6 190lbs and wear a size 14. I would prefer to wear jeans or pants, and I love high heels.

This outfit is casual but still chic, and costs just $99.29. You can buy these pieces at Old Navy, ASOS and Charlotte Russe.

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Jennifer Lopez's Style for $96.69

Reader Request

Sometimes I think that J-Lo's outfits are too over the top, but this one is great. Yes, she still looks like a major diva, but regular people could pull this look off too. Get a similar look for much less with pieces from Forever 21, Urban Originals, Charlotte Russe and Wet Seal.

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Beige Blouse $22.80

Silver Sequin Skirt $36.99

Cap-Toe Pumps $23.90

Long Silver Necklace $9.00

Silver Bracelets $4.00

08 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Restaurant Wedding

Reader Request

My sister has decided to have a quickie wedding at their favorite restaurant and head off to Aruba. It's on March 6th, here in frigid Minnesota. I am a stay at home mom, so I'd like to look dressed up and fancy, but still be able to chase after my two boys! I love black. I am petite 4'11, 98 pounds, no bust and a little round in the butt,hips and thighs. I would love it if you could put something together that is classy, sexy, and figure flattering, that I won't fall out of or feel uncomfortable in. It is cold, so layers and long sleeves are great and I would like to be able to wear the pieces again with casual outfits or to other events. I love Jessica Alba and Reese Witherspoon's style, and I love heels. Thanks!

This look will keep you warm and comfortable while chasing after your kids. It comes from Ruche, Wet Seal, Target and Kohl's and costs just $83.48.

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Lauren Conrad's Style for $90.09

LC looks cool and casual in her easygoing, semi-preppy outfit. Get her look for less with affordable pieces from Forever 21, Target and Fred Flare.

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Red Striped Tee $14.80

Skinny Jeans $15.00

Tan Strappy Wedges $24.99

Tan Handbag $21.80

Aviator Sunglasses $12.00

Necklace $1.50

07 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Not Too Old, Not Too Young

Reader Request

I'm a mother of two in my 30's. Whenever we go *out* out, I always feel underdressed and old. But, when I try to shop for club clothes, all I ever seem to find is hoochie mama specials. I want to look classy but still hot. I'm fairly skinny but I've got no boobs or hips. Help!

I hear you! I'm not a mom but I'm in my mid-30's and it's hard to find the middle ground between teenage clothes and old lady clothes. I hope you like this look. It'll flatter your shape and make you look young but not too young. It costs $92.78 and comes from Modcloth, Macy's and ASOS.

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Reese Witherspoon's Style for $98.29

Reader Request

Reese looks amazing in her dress, which reminds me a lot of Kate Middleton's iconic blue dress. Get her look for less with pieces from Bluefly and Forever 21.

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Blue V-Neck Dress $74.99

Black Pumps $17.50

Stud Earrings $5.80

04 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: London Night Out

Reader Request

I am an apple-shaped, 23 year old girl living in London. I am average-sized and have slim arms and legs, but am top heavy. My boyfriend and I are going for a special birthday date to The Dorchester, which is a posh hotel in London, for dinner followed by a night of clubbing to celebrate the occasion. Could you please advice me on what I can wear to look suitably dressed for dinner at a posh hotel AND a night of clubbing? By the way, I'm a fairly conservative dresser, so I don't like wear stuff that shows a lot of cleavage.

This look is elegant enough for dinner at the Dorchester but glitzy enough for the club. With pieces from Modcloth, Urban OG, and Amazon, this rings up at $97.09.

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Mixtape Masters 2.4.11: Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes!

There have been a lot of changes in my life so far this year, and more are coming. In just a few months, I'll have a new job, new car, new house and new husband. So, I wanted to put together a mix that was all about change.

David Bowie "Changes"

Devotchka "New World"

Sam Cooke "A Change is Gonna Come"

The Zombies "Changes"

Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings "Something's Changed"

Elvis Presley "Baby Let's Play House"

She & Him "Change is Hard"

Fever Ray "When I Grow Up"

For more Mixtape Master madness, peep the playlists on these blogs:

Be a Mixtape Master. Email Angie or Ashley to get on the list.

Selma Blair's Style for $99.19

I think that Selma's adorable two-tone brogues make this casual look extra-special. Get her look for less, including her exact sweater from Express, and other pieces from Wet Seal, Urban Outfitters and Delia's.

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Grey V-Neck Sweater $29.90

Black Leggings $5.50

Two-Tone Oxfords $38.00

Black Handbag $19.99

Black Sunglasses 45.80

03 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Friend's Birthday Party

Reader Request

My friend's birthday party is coming up soon, and I want to look great since it's the party of the year. I'm about 5'4 and 110 lbs. My style changes day to day and I usually find the perfect mixture of sweet and edgy. I'm basically a cross between Taylor Swift and Taylor Momsen. I'm okay with heels but I'm a young teen so nothing too crazy! Thanks!

This look has a sweet silhouette but edgy details and colors. It costs $97.98 and you can pick it up at Forever 21, Aldo and Dillard's.

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5 Under $50: Guest Post from That Wife

I've been so busy that I've had to cut down on a few posts, but luckily, I know some incredibly stylish people who are willing to guest post once in a while! Today's guest blogger is Jenna from That Wife.

I'm a stay at home mom that likes to dress up, so when I leave the house I'm usually wearing a dress. I need to keep my shoulders and thighs covered, so sites like Mikarose are the first place I turn when I want to add a new dress to my wardrobe. I frequently add in a pair of tights (I own several purple pairs actually) because with a baby I sometimes I have to crawl around on the floor after him and the tights help me feel a bit more covered. I chose flats because if I'm leaving the house I'm probably running errands and I don't want to be limping after an afternoon of Costco and Target! A big purse if a must if I don't have my diaper bag so I can keep the baby essentials with me, and I added a pop of color with the pink necklace (that I hope my baby can chew on without breaking because he loves to snack on my jewelry!)

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Whitney Port's Style for $92.74

Reader Request

If I had mile-long legs like Whitney, I'd live in miniskirts. Get a frugal version of her look from affordable stores like Urban Original, Spiegel, American Apparel, and Forever 21.

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Polka Dot Top $23.60

Red Mini Skirt $16.00

Beige Ankle Boots $34.00

Necklace $4.80

Bracelets $4.00

Earrings $10.34

02 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: Afternoon to Evening Wedding

Reader Request

My boyfriend's best friend's wedding is in the spring, and I'm really not sure what to wear. I want to impress, but not overdo it. I know for sure that one of my boyfriend's ex-girlfriends is attending the wedding, so I also want to make an impression on her. It's not going to be a very formal wedding - the ceremony will be in the afternoon and the party will of course run into the night. I was thinking something with lace, maybe with a vintage feel , but besides that, I'm in the dark. Any advice?

I think this look will be just perfect for the wedding. It's fun, flirty and romantic with lacy, vintage feel. Get this look for $98.18 from Ruche, DSW, Urban OG, and ASOS.

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Emmy Rossum's Style for $96.46

In theory, this goes against everything I like in fashion. The ruffles, the color combo, the matchy-matchiness, it should all be too much. But I absolutely love this look on Emmy. It's amazing. Get this fashion-forward look for less with items from Old Navy, Forever 21, ASOS, GoJane, and Charlotte Russe.

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Red Blouse $24.50

Pink Tiered Skirt $13.50

Black Bow Belt $7.76

Pink Pumps $25.90

Black Chain Bag $20.80

Black Bracelets $4.00

01 February 2011

The Savvy Stylist: 22nd Birthday

Reader Request

My 22nd birthday is coming up in February and my boyfirend is taking me and our friends to a casino. I want to look extra sexy for my birthday without looking trashy. I'm 5'2" and stocky. (180 lbs.) I have a large bust that I would like to show off tastefully and since I'm short I would like to elongate my legs with heels that are fairly easy to walk in. I'm blonde so I look good in purples and teals, but I can pull off most colors. I tend to buy a lot of neutral colors with pops of color. People always say that I look really young for my age so I'm also looking for something grown-up (but not too grown-up). I live in Pittsburgh so it's cold here and will probably be snowy. Please help me pull off an elegant, classic, kick-ass birthday look! Thanks so much!

This look is mature but young, elegant and flattering. These pieces from Old Navy, Lane Bryant, Swell, Forever 21 and Dillard's cost just $98.79.

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Kate Bosworth's Style for $99.29

Kate looks absolutely adorable in her chartreuse dress and black tights, doesn't she? Copy her look for a bargain with affordable pieces from Modcloth, Forever 21 and Express.

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Chartreuse Dress $57.99

Black Tights $14.50

Black Buckle Boots $26.80