From Legs to Toe

Despite the fact that before last year I hadn't worn tights since the third grade, I'm currently captivated by the perfectly affordable accessory. One of the biggest reasons I dislike the end of the year is because I can no longer wear skirts and dresses without looking and feeling a little unprepared for the cold. But now, there's no reason to fret. Since tights have made their comeback, we can wear our minis all year round.


Tights especially look great when paired with boots, which works out well since not many people can pull off bare legs and boots during the sunless winter.  From flower and paisley designs to fishnets, the new and improved tights come in all different patterns that can provide variety in your ensembles. Tights are the accessory must-have for this fall and winter.

These GAP tights are 14.50 (or 11 if you buy two or more.) They come in 2 colors.

These Forever 21 tights are only 5.80 and come in four colors.

These Urban Outfitters tights are on sale for 7.99

These American Eagle white tights are 12.50, or buy one, get one for 50% from their entire selection.

RAWR

There's no better way to show off your fierce side then to rock a little animal print every now and again. It's not something one can wear constantly or in excessive amounts, but when assembled and accessorized correctly, it can be the perfect flare for your outfit. Incorporating animal print pillows, knobs, blankets, and rugs can ornament an ordinary room too. There are a plethora of prints to choose from, so pick one that expresses your mood, personality, or flavor of the month.

Here are a few affordable pieces to inspire the animal in you...

This Charlotte Russe bag has snake print furnishings and is only 26.50.

This Forever 21 scarf is only 8.80. It is a perfect way to accessorize a neutral colored shirt or dress!

A small business is selling these animal print knobs online for just 2.97. There's a great variety to spice up your boring, old dressers and drawers.





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I absolutely love this skirt from Bloomingdales. It's on sale for 54.60 from 78 dollars.

These Urban Outfitter sunglasses are only 10 dollars and also come in other prints.

  

Save it For a Rainy Day

Forecast for this week: rain. Even though I knew the beautiful and unseasonnable weather couldn't last forever, I was hoping for a simple temperature drop, not a temperature drop AND rain. Rain equals drenched clothing, spots of splattered mud on our pants, frizzy, uncontrollable hair, and increased laziness. But, since the weather is inevitable, it is best to make the most of it by staying stylish (especially to make up for that frizzy hair.) Rainboots seem to be a matter of controversy in the college fashion world. Some see the rubber, colorful boots as a tacky faux pas. I happen to think they're great.Though they are not the most fashionable boots one could possibly own, I love that there are so many different styles, patterns, and colors to choose from. The rainboot you pick displays your personality, and they definitely add quirky flare to an outfit. Of course, they are also really practical. I feel invincible trudging across campus in my rainboots, as I can splash through any tsunami sized puddle, without even getting my toes wet. They keep my paints dry, they keep me warm, and they keep me sane on a miserable, rainy day.

Target has a large variety of different rainboots. Here are some of my favorite, all of which are only 24.99 dollars each and are also buy one, get one 50% off.

It's a satchel... Indiana Jones has one

Lately, satchels (across the body bags) have been displayed in the very front of stores. It's no surprise to me, since the bags really are incredibly convenient. I hate the responsibility and annoyance of having my purse hooked over my shoulder when I go out at night. Then, there's the ever frustrating experience of bringing a shoulder bag or tote to the movies, restaurants, or stadiums when there is no hook. One sure way to never lose your purse is to have it draped across your body, which is exactly the accommodation a satchel provides. If you are going to purchase a satchel, it is essential to love it, as it becomes a part of your outfit. It can replace long necklaces or other accessories, so try to find one that is basic enough to match many ensembles but still expresses your personal style.

Here are some affordable satchels...

This Forever 21 cross body bag is 25.80 and also comes in red.

This PacSun fold over bag is on sale for only 9.99 and also comes in teal. PacSun
has a variety of other affordable satchels too.

This Aldo bag is 46 dollars and also comes in black.

This Forever 21 bag is 32.80.

Wrap it Up

One of the reasons I'm anxiously waiting for the fall weather to kick in is so I can wear scarves. Scarves are the quintessential cold weather accessory for many reasons. Aside from the obvious notion that scarves keep you warm on brisk days, I love how they come in so many different forms. They can be plain, patterned, wool, cotton, silk, long, short...I could go on forever. Plus, there are a million ways to rock a scarf, whether it simply hangs free, is wrapped around your neck multiple times, or is a product of your own unique creation. Scarves can be worn any which way you choose, making them perfect for everyone, regardless of style preference. While all of these characteristics make scarves great, the best part is that they can quickly alter a shirt, dress, or sweater for the better. A plain white tee can seem ordinary but transforms into a chic outfit when paired with a colorful or uniquely patterned scarf. You could wear that same white shirt everyday with a different scarf and each time your outfit would look fresh, fashionable, and new. Trust me, I've done it plenty of times throughout the laziness and stress of college.

Since some scarves can cost as much as 50 or even 100 dollars, here are some affordable, adorable options...

AE Long Ombre Crinkle Scarf 19.50



This 24 dollar Urban Outfitter scarf has a beautiful, intricate floral pattern.



This 28 dollar Urban Outfitters scarf comes in three colors, which you MUST check out. I love every single one.

This woven scarf from Forever 21 is only 6.80. They have many other options too.

She Nailed It

Even though the beautiful and unseasonable weather we've been having makes it hard to focus on fall fashion, it's still the last official day of summer, and it is inevitable that the crisp autumn breeze will quickly approach. While this sounds like a negative outlook, it is certainly not meant to be, as I love the cool fall weather and all of the colors and clothing that comes along with it.

A couple of months ago, I wrote here about the bright, funky nail polish colors that were popular over the summer. While I still love this trend, it is important to adjust your nail color to fit the season. So, save those luminous shades for May through August because, along with the fall, comes a whole new pallet for stylish, but still funky, nails.

What I love about nail polish is that it's an affordable way to accessorize. It can supplement your outfit just as well as any piece of jewelry or scarf because it always ads POP, especially when the color matches what you're wearing. It's also an expression of your personality. There are definitely expensive brands of nail polish available, but it is really not necessary to waste away your savings on them. I have splurged on 10 dollar bottles of "ruby red" and "kiss me pink" before, and it simply wasn't worth it, as the quality does not tend to be any better. When I wrote about nail polish over the summer, I referenced my favorite, good quality, affordable brand: Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear Nail Color, which costs about 2.79-3 dollars a bottle, depending on where you get it (they're buy one, get one 50% off at Walgreens online). Well, luckily, the brand also carries dark, burnt shades that are perfect for the upcoming season!

Here are some of my favorite colors that remind me of autumn fashion...


"Plum Powder"
The subtle shimmer in this shade can dress up an outfit.

"Purple Pizzaz"
This color is a great way to incorporate the bright, funky style of summer nail shades into a darker, fall/winter shade.

"Celeb City"
This slate, shimmery shade is a great neutral tone that matches many outfits.

"Black Out"
Black nail polish has, of course, become popular recently, and fall and winter are the perfect times to rock
the shade. Try pairing it with a white ensemble to provide contrast.

"Red Carpet"
Dark red nail polish is a classic choice, especially
in the colder months.

"Emerald City"
I picture this shade with chunky sweaters and burnt orange and red shirts.

Blazin' Hot

When the weather starts changing from warm summer days to the briskness of autumn, it can take a fortune teller to know the perfect amount of layers to wear. It may be cold while walking to class and work in the morning, but by mid-day, the sun is often glowing, leaving anyone who dressed for a cool day feeling embarrassed and much too hot. Light coats, such as blazers, are a perfect way to keep warm during the Fall months, without sweltering in overly heavy winter gear. Plus, they are extremely chic. Depending on the exact style of the jacket, they add sophistication, spunk, and sometimes color to an outfit. They look great with dresses, jeans, boots, scarves, and even over light sweaters. One of the best parts about owning such a versatile piece is that they can be thrown on to spice up a plain outfit on a lazy day (they look great with jeans and a plain white tee shirt, for example.) And we all know lazy days are common, especially in college.

Any type of outwear is generally on the pricey side. Here are some coats I found (blazers and otherwise) that are light, stylish, and affordable.



This Old Navy blazer is 39.50 and comes in 4 colors.



This Old Navy jacket comes in two colors and is only 34.50.

 

                        This Urban Outfitters Vintage Wool Blazer (below) is only 48 dollars and comes in 3 other (neutral) colors.

This pink Forever 21 biker jacket is only 34.80.



Designer Shoe Warehouse- Deal of the Week

This past week, I discovered the store DSW. Don't ask me how I had never heard of it before, especially when there is one just 20 minutes away from my school, but as soon as it was brought to my attention, I knew I had to check it out. I'll admit that I was skeptical when first told that DSW sold designer items inexpensively. I assumed the prices would be cheaper, but still outrageous. Luckily, I was wrong.

Though it's tough to think about the years of owning affordable, designer shoes and bags I missed out on by not knowing about DSW earlier, I am happy to say that I am now a proud owner of two wonderful items from the store.

When I first walked in, I was completely overwhelmed by the size of the store and the vast selection. I browsed through the scarves, tights, and purses first. Right away, a black Guess bag caught my eye. It was the slouchy style tote I've wanted for at least a year, but could never afford (Reminiscent of the bag in this post.) Well, this one was on sale for just 60 dollars. That's when I fell in love with DSW.

After grabbing the Guess purse and quickly buzzing through the rest of the bags in an attempt to avoid spending all of my money on wristlets and totes, I headed over to the shoes. I had the goal of finding a pair of short, sued booties for an affordable price. Mission accomplished. I got the "Me Too" brand booties pictured below for just 59.95. I love how they have a heel, yet they are not outrageously high. The best part? They are unbelievably (and surprisingly) comfortable.

Needless to say, I can't wait for my next trip to DSW.

"Me too Fancy booties" Originally 89.95, but only 59.95 at DSW.





Guess bag, on sale for 60 dollars



I love how pretty the inside of this bag is. If a bag is lined with a great, silky design, I'm always more apt to buy it.

Falling for Flannels

There's nothing better than a brisk, fall day in New England. Not just because of the weather and the beautiful foliage, but also because of the great clothes that accompany all of the fun fall activities like apple picking and...well, that's really all I can think of for fun fall activities...
But, anyway, one of my favorite shirts to wear in the cool, early autumn days is a cozy flannel. Whether it's a classic red, button up flannel, a black and white long flannel paired with a belt, or a funky, brightly colored flannel, there's nothing better to keep you warm and looking great in September and October. In fact, my roommate has been waiting for the cold to come just so that she can break out her favorite flannels. It's no surprise to me, since flannels go great with jeans, leggings, or tights and a pair of boots, if you're feeling extra confident.
Even though I could rave on and on about the comfort and nostalgia of wearing a cute flannel on a chilly day, I can certainly say the best part is that they are affordable.

This classic Forever 21 flannel is a steal at 12.50

This Forever 21 flannel is 19.80 and also comes in blue and green.

This American Eagle plaid boyfriend shirt also comes in purple.

It's slightly more expensive than Forever 21's flannels at 39.50, but the thicker fabric makes the quality a little better and will keep you extra warm.

American Eagle, 39.50. Also comes in green and red.

The Fashion for Less

It's Fashion Week in NYC, and even though nothing there is affordable, that doesn't change the fact that we're still on college budgets. I checked out some of the pictures from the weekend shows and found myself pleasantly surprised. Normally, when I see runway shows on TV or runway pictures in magazines, I don't like any of the clothes. They are always way too out of the ordinary, expensive, and not reflective of what most people would actually wear. This time, though, I came across pictures of Peter Som's collection. I had never heard of him before, but I loved what I found. It was the first runway pictures I have ever seen that actually featured clothes that the everyday person could wear. Plus, I love how he uses bright colors and patterns, yet juxtaposes them with black to offset the spunk of the outfits.

Here are two of my favorite outfits from the collection:

Since these outfits are obviously too expensive, here are some similar, more affordable versions!

This Express skirt is only 34.50.

This pink Forever 21 dress is only 19.80

and reminds me of the Peter Som's print.

This dress also reminds me of the Peter Som dress. It is 128 dollars from Express.
Though this is more than what I would normally consider affordable, it is less expensive than
Peter Som's collection and a good alternative.

 

These Jessica Simpson heels are about 80 dollars and are just as bold as Peter Som's shoes.

Lace Yourself

Lately, my online shopping habits have drawn me towards lace shirts, dresses, and scarves. I've noticed lace decorated items on nearly every store's website in a variety of colors. I love the feminine, delicate look lace clothing conveys. They give tops a dressy vibe, but of course, they still can be worn with jeans or shorts for a casual appearance. A lace scarf adds elegance and decoration to a plain shirt, and a lace dress is simply adorable. As of now, I only own two lace tops, and they're, of course, both from Forever 21 and were both under 25 dollars. The ruffles on these shirts mixed with the lace gives them a romantic feel, but the dark coloring on the first top, and the tight fit of both, show some spunk as well.

Photos taken by professional Wynne Hamerman

            Below: Forever 21 top, H&M skirt, New York and Company Wedges, Forever 21 gold hoops

                           Below: Forever 21 top, New York and Company Jeggings, Forever 21 belt, Macy's heels

Here are some lace items I found online that can be worn for a similar look:

This Charlotte Russe top is 15 dollars, or two for 20 dollars. There are 5 colors.

Forever 21 dress, $22.80