Open Toe Pumps

Dear Girlfriends -

 

Its Friday and you know what that means … its Frugalista Friday!  All of us I am sure are on a shopping budget these days and the thought for the day “what to wear when you’re broke?”

Fashion’s a breeze when you’ve got money to blow. But getting that fresh-from-the-runway look gets tricky when you’re short on cash. First we need to redefine the word “sale”.  Sounds basic, but to really save a bundle on clothes you have to be willing to pass up enticing promotions (15% off; free shipping; gift with purchase) and hold out for the hard-core sales (40% off is good; 50% and up will land you a buy for almost what it cost the retailer).

Fairytale Off Shoulder Gown

Marlene Hobo

Soft Cuff Booties

Frugal fashionistas, don’t stop buying!  Satiate the fashion lover in you with a very small treat: you set the amount and frequency ($10 a month for new earrings, etc.) and its important to pay with cash.

Knit Jacket

And most importanly, shop in season.  Sure, stuff is cheaper when bought at the end of the season or even out of season. And that’s fine if you’re just looking for any old thing to wear. But if you love fashion (and you do, or you wouldn’t be here), you should shop as close to the season as possible. Otherwise you’ll just waste your money on trends that will be out of style by the time the next year rolls around.

Fashionistas and the ultimate way to be a frugal fashionistas, swap with your girlfriends!  Friends that wear your size (and share your taste) are a gold mine. You can even go large scale and organize a swap meet where everyone can switch shoes, clothes, etc.

Elegantly Waisted

Hooded Leather Vest

Now are you ready to be a Frugal Fashionista?  If so, welcome FRUGALISTA!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends –

Going from a fashionista to a recessionista!  Well its no different in the fashion industry and a fashionistas got to know how to keep on looking fly even with the pocket crunch all around.

Many of us have been recessionistas from ever since but if you’re new to the “bargain hunt” or are looking for a few new ways to save a penny or two then listen up while I share a few of my ideas.

• One of my favorites is to shop at bargain stores and affordable shopping events. Hey don’t knock it till you try it, there are some REAL bargains to be had there, all you have to do is sift through the racks to find some true gems and basic pieces. If you’re in town this weekend, I recommend a stroll through the Ultimate Fashionista Flea Market happening on Saturday July 25th from 10:00am-3:00pm.    The ultimate shopping experience wants you!  Come out to see and buy amazing pieces from the closets of fabulous fashionistas keeping you on budget.  The event features new, trendy, hip, vintage and stylish pieces including shoes, jeans, belts, jewelry, handbags, dresses, blouses, accessories and more.  And the good thing is there is something for everyone – all sizes and styles.  As a part of the shopping experience there will be a Makeup Bar featuring professional makeup services. 
  

  Jackie O Inspired Sunglasses

  

  Flower Ring

  

  Diara Necklace

  

  Fab Handbag

  

  Galaxy Ring

  All fashionistas have become “recessionistas” – following their “passion for fashion” but doing so within the constraints of the current economy.  On Saturday, you never know what you may find and it may be only one chance to get a new and affordable addition to your closet!

Fashionista Flea Market

The Ultimate Fashionista Flea Market … an open-air shopping experience on Saturday July 25th 10:00am-3:00pm at the James Madison Middle School in Upper Marlboro, Maryland 20772    (off Route 4/MD-223 Exit)

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends ~

I was getting ready for an evening out with a few couples this weekend and wanted to wear a pencil dark-wash denim skirt by Citizens of Humanity but kept looking through my color-coordinated closet for a “fab” top! 

I couldn’t find anything until I went to my “dressy” section and found a casual sequin top that outfitted perfectly with the skirt, stepped into my pumps, grabbed my vintage olive green clutch and hubby and I were out the door in 10 minutes!

Girlfriends, if you had the same trouble as I do sometimes, I can tell you know how to wear dressed-down sequins.

Casual sequins? Not a contradiction in terms.  The key to pulling off this look is contrast.  Pair a sequined piece with a simple tee or shredded denim for the ultimate in effortless glamour.

Here are ways to get the look ~

A style for our inner dancing queen by T-Bags.  Metallic-pinstriped voile top with V neck and T back. Sequins at shoulders. 2″ straps. Lined at front and semi-sheer at back.

T-Bags Sequin Top

Perfectly paired with dressy bottoms, this Pleated Sequin Top features a pleated mesh fabric, contrast satin halter neck with sequins, back keyhole with button closures, an A-line shape, and an interior lining.

From Free People a fitted mesh tunic with all over sequin embellishment. Low scoop back line and ribbon adjustable straps and great for layering.

Sequined Mesh Tunic

Purple Sequined Mesh Tunic

Glittering sequins trace the billowy woven front of a stunning halter top with an adjustable drawstring waist.

Sequin Silk Halter Top

From Diabless, a  short-sleeved cotton shirt with sexy sequin stripes in navy .  Featurin a fitted-look, crew neck and 100% cotton.

Tellus Sequin Top

How about this top with skinny Joe’s Jeans?  This brown printed cotton knit tank with racerback shimmers with allover sequin treatment by XOXO.

XOXO Sequined Tank

Also from Free People, this stunning sequined kaftan with flutter sleeves. Elastic banded waist and keyhole on the back.

Flutter Sequin Kaftan Top

After considering a few of these style looks – pull out  your skirts and jeans and pair with a sequin tank.  You have a lot to look forward to in your next casual/fab outing – stay sequined!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends:

One of my girlfriends in a dilemma.  She was invited to a summer wedding the invitation says “semi-formal”.  Help!  She doesn’t know what to do!

Summer brings an endless parade of blissful nuptials, but while you’re over the moon for your engaged pals, you can’t help but be thrown into a fashion tizzzy at the thought of all of the events that surround each affair. Fear not. I can tell you just how to look picture-perfect throughout the “I do” season.

Since my girlfriend is freaking out on the “semi-formal” dress code.  I thought I should help you as well!  

For these not-quite-formal affairs, opt for a dress that would work well at a cocktail party — maybe one that has embroidery, lace or beading, or is made with a snazzy fabric that shimmers as you move. (We love anything in silk for the summer.) Knee length is perfect for this occasion — anything much shorter and you might look like you’re left over from the groom’s bachelor party, and anything too long (although tea length will still cut it) will have guests thinking you took a wrong turn on your way to the prom.  Here are a few pulled together looks for ALL those summer weddings!

Ruffle Dress

Black and Pink

Secret Kiss Dress

Milly

Tulip Dress

Don’t forget the accessories!  Accessorize with a delicate necklace (diamonds will work, but so too will pastel or colored beads and stones), and a groomsman will be begging you to dance in no time.

I know some of you are starting to wonder why you RSVP’ed to all those summer weddings. I know dressing for someone else’s Big Day can strike fear in the heart of even the bravest fashionista.  You should feel more confident now as I’ve shown you how to bring your personal style to the party without feeling like you messed up!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends ~

Nowadays we are all trying to crunch the numbers and crave our spending!  I was sharing with a friend over “leftover” lunch yesterday that spending on “budget” fashion is still ok!  Shameless spending is out. Adding hot trends with staying power to your wardrobe is in.

Shameless spending might be so last season, but that’s no excuse to let your wardrobe suffer. It’s time to turn your fashionista eye toward guilt-free trends that will go the distance and earn their keep (in your closet).

For starters, put a powerful finishing touch to any outfit with a cute and structured blazer. In the right fit, these jackets can slim your lines or add curves where you need them. Worn with a concert tee and jeans or over a shift dress with heels, this look is always stylish but in control. Look for trendy bold colors in durable fabrics so that you get the most blazin’ bang for your buck, such as this one Twill Blazer in fresh spring hues like sunny yellow.

Twill Yellow Blazer

There are no gray areas when it comes to this style. The bold blend of black and white is a trend that reinvents itself year after year. Rather than trying to sport this color combo from head to toe, focus on one smart accessory, like these Open Toe Pumps.

Black & White Open Toe Pumps

The sun actually appeared while we were eating.  We enjoyed that … anyway I told her that even during these “recession days” women will always need that perfect handbag!  Get your fashion miles out of a bold clutch handbag, like this Rhinestone-inspired Clutch. For day or evening, clutches look elegant and expensive, upgrading your look instantly and tying together any date-night or cocktail ensemble.

Rhinestone Orange Clutch

I’ve even tried this style on several occassions!  The menswear look can signify high style, and you no longer have to raid your husband’s closet to sport the laidback look of the oversized boyfriend cardigan. This work-to-weekend wardrobe staple is useful year-round, whether as a snuggly cover-up for your spring dresses or as part of a layered look paired with jeans and a skinny belt. Adorable in everything from lightweight cotton to cashmere, and basic black to bold stripes, the boyfriend cardigan is surprisingly feminine. 
We love the City-Style Open Cardigan!

City Style Cardigan

When it comes to staying power and guilt-free style, dark denim just might be the most timeless of trends. Versatile enough to get you from office casual Friday to the hottest nightspot and everywhere in between, well-fitting jeans in a dark wash are hip, flattering, and functional. Dressed down or glammed up, you really can’t go wrong. “Dark denim in a woman’s wardrobe is the equivalent to the little black dress”

Dark Denim Jeans

Fashion has taken a feminine turn with ballerina-influenced styles showing up on every runway and in every season. Gorgeous and girly, the ballerina look embraces pretty pastels, lightweight lace, flirty skirts, ribbon detailing, ruffles, dancer-derived leggings and flats. You won’t tire of looking sweet and polished, especially in affordable items like these floral ballet flats.

Floral Ballerina Flats

Its time to come to a close for the day … I hope you’ve learned a little about guilt-free, shameless budget shopping.  We all should save when we can …. “take care of the luxuries and the necessities will take care of themselves“.

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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RuMe Metallic Combo

Dear Girlfriends,

 

I know we all at one point or another try to stay away from “plastic or paper”.  And for those of us trying to recycle and “be green” not matter what the reason . . . it’s about time the reusable grocery bag got a serious makeover! 

I know that at times you want to be practical and function almost always trumps form, but why not have both with a little piece of affordable luxury?  I was shopping the other night and the lady in front of me had an adorable grocery bag so I took it upon myself to find the perfect reusable grocery bag! 

I think I found it!  RuMe’s new Green Label Metallic Line has a great shape, sturdy construction and versatility AND made from a ridiculously luxe satin fabric that will be sure to make you the toast of the grocery store; not to mention the town!  . . . and here’s the added bonus!

Each bag has an inside pocket for phones, keys, Blackberry, wallet, cards and more bling, plus a simple enclosure system that allows you to use the velcro strap to close the top of the bag.  I had to order one!  Again not only are they the most luxurious reusable bag to date, they also have “the inside” features as I mentioned that keeps everyone close at hand when you’re out and about.

Girlfriends … I must say affordable, stylish RuMe Bags are designed for daily use – and “reuse” – in any situation:

• Grocery or mall shopping; as a gym, sports, diaper or beach bag; for après ski, picnics or overnighters; for laundry, farmer’s markets, work or as ReUseable gift bags.
• The comfortable handle is sized to carry over any shoulder – male or female – even while wearing a bulky winter coat!

RuMe Bags are designed and packaged following a no-waste philosophy – there’s no superfluous pouch or packaging. Up to three RuMe Bags can be rolled and tied together for simple, compact carrying and storage. RuMe Bags are small enough to fit in a purse or glove compartment – the patent pending enclosure system enables three bags to roll up to about the size of your cup of coffee.

Is there anything left for me to say.  Now how can you beat that! 

Until the next adventure,

Monica

RuMe Metallic Lavendar

RuMe Metallic Silver

 

RuMe Metallic Gold

 

RuMe Metallic (How it looks when folded!)

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My cousin and I were talking last night about how it takes only ten seconds (or less) to make a lasting first impression.  I told her “right or wrong, shallow or not, we instinctively judge by appearances”.  She and another girlfriend asked how to go from work to network events after hours.   As the old adage goes, dress for the job you want – and the clients you want – at networking events just as in the office. I am sure there are many ways to get there but here is the path I would take!   

Prepare to look professional and pulled together at impromptu meetings and last-minute event invitations by keeping a tailored jacket in your office or car at all times.   A chic jacket in yarn-dyed wool/linen featuring notch lapels and puffed cap sleeves.  Or try a refined, lightweight linen jacket.  You could even try a modern jacket in nubby tweed made of fine Italian fabric. 

Tweed Short Jacket

 

Carry a small handbag with just your essentials (keys, lipstick, phone, business cards) and leave your briefcase or laptop bag in the car. You don’t want to be the woman banging into everyone with her bag! And since you’ll need both hands free (for shaking and eating), consider a shoulder bag over a clutch.

Dooney & Bourke

A color option for shoulder networking bags a subtly grained calfskin leather is crafted into a chic shoulder bag finished with a diminutive logo plaque at the front.  Then Kate Spade offers a large, contoured flap slips into the branded tab on the front of a smooth leather hobo. Two small tassels dangle from the strap for a trend-right touch!

Small Black Bag

Do you know how far you will have to walk from the parking lot to the event? Factor that into your shoe (and pant or skirt) selection for the day. Keep in mind that you will be coming from work, so your feet may already be tired and may tend to swell during the evening (smile).

 

BCBG Pump

 

Sofft Natural Pump

Freshen up your lipstick and eye makeup. Try navy blue eyeliner to make your eyes appear brighter and erase some of the day’s tension. Go for a natural or neutral lip color to avoid the dreaded lipstick ring – and the lip print on your glass.

Nars Makeup

 … and the she asked the one question I am sure stumps everyone – “what about color?”

 

When networking color sends a strong nonverbal message and is the first thing a person sees. Think about what you want to communicate and then choose colors that support that impression.

• Navy: honesty, integrity
• Black: sophistication, authority
• White: freshness, reliability
• Tan: elegance, approachability
• Brown: stability, security
• Gray: strength of character, refinement
• Burgundy/Maroon: classic, elegance
• Plum: regal, diplomatic
• Teal: inventive, soothing
• Red: passion, tenacity

Think chic and practical when networking at after-office-hours events. Remember to wow them with style at your next networking event!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

Linen Belted Jacket

Dear Girlfriends:

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Dear Girlfriends: 

One of my good friends called me this morning and needs help on finding and carrying a chic laptop bag for a client meeting out of town on Monday.  Geez …. where do I start?!?

Let me begin with a story ….

In a Chanel-styled suit with the latest peep-toe pumps from Jimmy Choo, you enter that meeting looking like you walked straight off the set of Lipstick Jungle – like you could rule the world with just a BlackBerry and a couple lattes. But wait … what is up with that awful laptop bag?

You’d never carry a purse made from black nylon, but you’re still sporting the ugly laptop bag you bought years ago when you had no other choice. 

Well before this story ends, I’m hear to tell you that I have good news Syndey and my girlfriends!  Now you have options, thanks to a few fashion-forward career women who were so frustrated with the limited choices that they created their own product lines.

I told her that I love these options … and think its a great place to start.

These chic designs look like large designer bags on the outside, but they have all the pockets and sections you want in a computer bag on the inside. 

Bianca Tote Laptop Bag

Trendy but work-appropriate, these trendy bags add a punch of color and pizzazz to your look.

Kerri Mack Laptop Bag

Need more variety? Try this plum-pink laptop bag.  It offers the perfect companion for the stylish gal about town!

Siena Laptop Bag

I called her back during my lunch walk and was able to schedule a shopping trip with her tomorrow morning.  Getting ready for her meeting while remaining fabulous and chic … Monday here we come!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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