Beware of Black Friday

Hey budget fashionistas, be careful when shopping on Black Friday.  As I’m sure you’ve already noticed, people tend to shop in a frenzy during the holidays and with stores giving you only a few hours to purchase great deals, it can leave you walking out with a lot more than you intended and a maxed out credit card.  (You don’t want to start 2012 in serious debt do you?)

Rule #1 – create a realistic budget.

If you only have $500 to spend for Christmas, only spend $500. Write out a list of whom you are purchasing gifts for and the amount you want to spend on each person.

Rule #2 – save something for you

While you’re out shopping for others, it’s really hard not to pass up buying those great pair of boots you’ve had your eye on and are now on sale. Create room in your budget for yourself.

Rule #3 – make a Christmas gift

If you’re on a budget (like me), and have some rad creative skills, make a gift for someone you care about like a necklace, a Christmas wreath, or a yummy Christmas cookie basket. Personalized gifts like these will be appreciate by your loved ones and you won’t have to spend hours trying to find a parking spot at the mall ;)

Have a very safe and happy Thanksgiving my fashionistas! J

Flats

This past summer I was working out like crazy and unfortunately that caused a major spinal injury :( (who knew there was such a thing as too much Zumba?) I had to make a lot of life changes and one of those was making the switch from my sexy high heels to comfy and cute flats. I was pretty sad at the beginning but as I starting my search for flats, my dissapointment quickly turned into a smile.

I first did an online search and came across some really fabulous red flats at Express. I quickly ran over to the mall and tried on a pair. It was love at first sight...well after I saw the price that is ;) I grabbed the pair for only $35. I have received so many compliments on them.

I now own a few pairs of flats and even though I stand at 5'5", I can still pull off wearing these comfortable shoes with skirts, pants, shorts or jeans. It's how you accessories and how you put together your outfit that will make it work. Since my legs are not as long, I wear skirts that sit right above the knee to give a longer leg appearance. If you're afraid to wear skits, try wearing some dark colored leggings this winter. Complete that look with some flats with a little bling and you've got a great look for the holidays and you'll be ready to dance without any horrible blisters the next day.

For a rock n' roll look, grab some studded black flats, for a more elegant look, grab a pair of simple ballet styled flats, and for a quirky look, hunt down a pair of leopard print flats. Happy shopping my fashionistas!

my new shoes :)

http://www.express.com/pointed-toe-ballet-flats-38537-489/refine/Style/Ballet-Flats/control/show/3/index.pro#jsLink               on sale $24.43!

http://www.dsw.com/shoe/cl+by+laundry+bubblegum+flat?prodId=233023&category=cat20068 $24.95

http://www.chineselaundry.com/shopallbrands/flats/alysha
44.95

http://www.zappos.com/jessica-simpson-cedia-black-cranberry-patent-maya
$69.00

Dress for Success

Dress for Success is a fantastic not-for-profit organization that provides disadvantaged women with a network of support, career development tools and professional attire to thrive in the workforce. I am very happy to have had the opportunity to volunteer with this organization. By volunteering as a personal shopper, I have met many amazing women, both volunteers and clients, who inspire me with their drive to succeed and drive to help others. If you would like to get involved with DFS, go to http://www.dressforsuccess.org/  to find a location near you.

If you happen to be in Austin this week, check out the Dress for Success event on November 10th at Banana Republic from 5pm - 10pm. Make a purchase of $100 and get $25 off. They will also be accepting donations for new or gently used work appropriate attire including, shoes, purses and accessories. While you're there, enjoy free cupcakes, wine and great music by singer Corrina Rachel.  Happy shopping/volunteering my fashionistas! :)

News for you

So while I’ve been on sabbatical, a few things have caught my eye:

#1 OPI is coming out with a new line of nail polish in celebration of the Muppet movie coming out this November. The colors are great for the holidays. My favorites are Meep Meep Meep, Wocka Wocka and Rainbow Connectioni. Check them out on  

http://www.bellasugar.com/OPI-Muppets-Nail-Polish-Collection-Pictures-18847406

 

#2 My photographer friend (hi Kelly!) has been telling me about Piniterest. It’s like an online collage of your favorite things ranging between clothing and home. If you’re thinking about starting one on fashion, you should also check out http://www.polyvore.com/. This is my new favorite website! It’s a great way to piece together items you think you might love to buy while staying in budget (it gives you the price and designer name).  

#3 There are a lot of great contests our there for fashionistas. There's a few that were giving away gift cards, trips to New York or a day with a stylist. Check out Glamour and Lucky magazines for cool contests like these.

I recently took the Marshall’s challenge. The contest required that you purchase a head to toe designer look from Marshall's for under $150.00. I succeeded, and then some ;)   Unfortunately, my rounter broke and I missed the deadline for the contest. But that’s ok. I ended up with a ton of great buys including a Tommy Hilfiger purse for only $24! It's similar to a Nine West purse ($99) that I was craving for fall but for a fraction of the cost. I will definitely be going back to Marshall's!

Don't forget to check your local Goodwill and discount markets for cool costumes. It'll save you lots of $ and give you the opportunity to be creative. Happy Halloween my fashionistas! :) 

Gotta love Miss Piggy :)

Fall’s Blast From the Past

40’s, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, pick your era! The world’s hottest designers are taking a note from the past.

Louis Vuitton’s catwalk included an edgy twist on the 1940’s Film Noir look. Full of dark and mysterious appeal, these clothes are perfect for fall.  Macy’s has great looks for less. Accessorize with some great black pumps and red lipstick.

I attended Banana Republic’s cocktail party earlier this month where they launched their new Mad Men collection. This collection pays homage to the 50’s housewife/60 retro glam looks. The new line is full of figure flattering dresses in beautiful colors... And the party was fantastic! It included wine, cupcakes and music. If only every shopping experience was like this! Jazz music was performed by local Austin singer Corrina Rachel, who was dressed to the 9s in the Mad Med collection and whose voice is completely captivating. Check out Corrinna in the collection below and be sure to come see her at Cru located at the Domain on Tuesday nights from 8-10 pm.

Bottega Venta and Prada gave a colorful nod to the 60’s mod look. Recreate these looks by color blocking your outfits or wearing a colorful sheath dress with some killer boots/booties.

For the 70’s hippie girl in you, Diane Von Furstenberg fall collection is right for you! Grab a sassy faux fur coat with a flowing top combined with great flair jeans and accessories or a great flowing dress with a jean jacket and some great brown boots with a fringe purse and you’re 70’s hippy chic!

Check out the looks for less below… Happy shopping my fashionistas!

Corrina performing at the Banana Republic Mad Men party. http://corrinarachel.com/dreamlandjazz/

40's
http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=590264&CategoryID=5449&LinkType=#fn=sp%3D2%26spc%3D972   $99.00
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_031J8467000P?prdNo=21   $42.00 on sale
http://www.target.com/p/Je-Veux-Double-Handle-East-West-Handbag-Black/-/A-12953327 $34.99

50's
www.thelimited.com 
http://bananarepublic.gap.com – mad men collection  $49.50

60's
http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=587476&CategoryID=57938#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D20     $69.50
www.spiegel.com  $34.00 on sale                                    
http://www.target.com/p/Merona-174-Large-Classic-Clutch-Black/-/A-12362494

70's
http://www.nyandcompany.com/nyco/browse/productDetailWithPicker.jsp?productId=prod4220006&categoryId=cat2580033&FLCat=cat840014&addFacet=1002%3Acat2580033
$64.95 – check out online and in store coupons!
www.spiegle.com sale $59.00   
http://www.target.com/p/Women-s-Xhilaration-174-Kainda-Slouchy-Heeled-Boots-Brown/-/A-13379206 $34.99
https://shopstrut.com/shop/handbags/bronte-bag/  $29

Accessories, Accessories, Accessories (part 2)

I can’t get enough accessories! I love that no matter what my budget or size, I can walk into almost any store and find something great. If you are in the mood for some trendy pieces just for that season, I wouldn’t recommend spending too much. You can find plenty of trendy jewelry at Forever 21. Although I can only fit one leg in any piece of clothing in that store, I love to shop their accessories. They have cute trendy jewelry starting at $1.50! You can’t beat that. Target, Hannah D’s, Charming Charlie's and Francesca’s are also great places to find affordable accessory trends including jewelry, hats, shoes, scarves, headbands, etc.

Keep in mind that the hat trend from summer has trickled over into fall. The summer floppy hat has made a transformation into a velvet floppy hat on the runways. Bold jewelry and colors also made an appearance on the catwalk. So if you’re in the mood to follow a trend, stick to the stores listed above.

However, if you're in the mood to spoil yourself (as you should from time to time) pick up a great piece of jewelry that will last for more than just a season. Below are a few more links on etsy.com, to some great accessories that are hand crafted with the love you won’t find at any chain store.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/76305665/vintage-inspired-pearl-and-crystal

- This is a great place to shop for vintage inspired pieces

http://www.etsy.com/listing/78497804/beautiful-braided-bracelet-with-pearl

- This bracelet is elegant and will compliment your summer dress

http://www.etsy.com/listing/78563027/oh-so-blue-and-brown-suncatcher - Great accessory for you garden or home

http://www.etsy.com/listing/78544475/earrings-green-pearl-crystal-and-acai

- Check out these fun earrings!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/78896403/forest-leaf-dangle-earrings - These delicate frosted earrings are perfect for any outfit
http://www.etsy.com/listing/78446821/crochet-button-appliques-in-blue-green - Check out these colorful button covers!

Happy shopping my fashionistas :)

Accessories, Accessories, Accessories (part 1)

The summer months are getting even hotter but it’s not as hard as you think to look good while you’re sweating or sporting a sunburn (ouch!) Adding some great accessories to your summer wardrobe can spice things up while still keeping you cool. Adding a statement necklace to a tank top, shorts and flip flops, can give your summer look some attitude. Try stacking multi-colored bracelets or wearing some chandelier earrings in a bold color.

There are lots of places to shop for accessories, but if you want something extra special and unique try www.etsy.com . This sight is full of vintage pieces, jewelry, art, and anything handmade you can think of. This is a great place to search for stylish accessories at any price. Check out the links below with accessories $20 and under!

 

http://www.etsy.com/listing/76275949/bracelet-blue-zircon-copper-wire-wrapped - This blue zircon and copper wired bracelet gives the perfect pop of color to any summer outfit :)

http://www.etsy.com/listing/73702473/leather-wrapped-globe-bottle-necklace    - This leather necklace is so western chic and definitely makes a statement!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/77430923/white-pearl-earrings-made-in-hawaii - Check out these fabulous earrings from Hawaii!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/75588296/black-and-blue-dangle-earrings  - These earrings are dreamy and give an air of fantasy...

http://www.etsy.com/listing/73153650/handmade-knitted-lace-head-scarf - I love this headband! This is great for any time of year and comes in different colors.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/77321493/ribbon-flower-hair-clip-collection-fade - This shop has great gifts for your little fashionista!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/73987587/tassel-earrings -     (my site) These earrings want to party ;)

Each of these Etsy artisans hand craft their pieces. You can check out more of their items by click on their link, and then click on their shop. By purchasing an item on etsy, you are supporting art and creativity! Happy shopping my fashionistas :)

Fit for You

We all want to look like a million bucks. I know I do. There’s a few ways to have that look on a smaller budget. While we are shopping for a good deal, it is very important to look at the quality of what it is you’re purchasing. Just because something is on sale, doesn't mean you should buy it. Search for pieces that are tailored and have some sort of structure. Too many baggy pieces can make you look sloppy.   

Sometimes we find a great buy, but is doesn't quite fit right. If you find a piece that you love but doesn't fit properly, it should be tailored. I bought a beautiful summer blouse from Macy's originally $50 but on sale for $15. It's was a bit too big, but having it taken costs about $15 giving the blouse an overall cost of $30.00. By going this route, not only did I save money, but my blouse is now fit to my body shape; not the cookie cutter shapes at the stores.

When shopping, always fit the widest part of your body. I have been blessed up top but unfortunately that made me shy away from button up shirts since they all tend to bunch up or pop open...yikes! Then I learned that I can go one size up to fit my chest, and then take in the waist. This tailored look is not only flattering but can make your clothing appear more luxurious. The same can be done to jeans and any other piece of clothing. Finding a tailor you love may take some time and effort, but once you find them, it's worth it!

A great structured short sleeved jacket is the way to go this summer. Try pairing a jacket with a loose or printed blouse. Add light colored capris and some cute sandals and you are ready to go anywhere.

Check out the link below for a flattering jackets at a great price. Happy shopping my fashionistas! J

http://www.jcpenney.com/jcp/X6.aspx?GrpTyp=STY&ItemID=1b89d5a&DeptID=70656&CatID=82801&SO=0&Ne=4294957900+29+3+1031+8+18+904+833+949&x5view=1&NOffset=2&N=4294932249&Nao=21&PSO=0&CmCatId=external|82801

Coral is the Color

A favorite color this summer is Coral. If you are new to this color, you can play this up in a subtle way, using accessories. Francesca’s boutique has some beautiful coral earrings and bracelets. Or if you’re a bit bolder, you can devour yourself in the color. I recently purchased a coral dress at New York & Company on clearance for $20! I wasn’t sure about the color at first, but I’ve received so many compliments! It’s a coral wrap dress with a bit of bling at the waist. A wrap dress flatters any figure…and I am so thankful for that ;) New York and Company also had this in a dark brown color, if anyone is thinking ahead for fall.

 I usually run straight to the clearance rack first before scanning the rest of any store. You never know what great bargains you’ll find! Last month, I found an awesome orange faux crock clutch purse at JCPenny’s in an 80% off bin. I thought it was a mistake, but when they rang me up and said it was $10.00, I took it! You can’t pass up a deal like that. So now I’m all set with a great summer bag and a beautiful summer dress all for only $30.

Sometimes we see amazing outfits in magazines and think we can never afford it, but think again. Take the magazine photo of your outfit for inspiration. The mall will probably be your best bet for sales. Check the department stores to gather some similar pieces of your outfit in the magazine. Before you know it, you’ll have a look for less. I’ll be featuring some looks for less soon staring the Rachel Zoe collection and some looks from the fall runways. Stay tuned my fashionistas…

www.francescascollections.com

www.nyandcompany.com

www.JCPenny.com

my $10 Nicole Miller clutch :)

Head Trends

Living in the Texas summer demands for sunscreen, chic sunglasses and a hat. The Fedora has been popping up everywhere on men and women, but to beat the summer heat; my prescription is a big floppy hat!

Floppy hats not only protect you from the sun's rays but keep you lookin’ stylish - even if you're all sweaty. I purchased one recently at the Banana Republic outlet store outside of Houston for about $24.  But if you can't make it out that way, check out Payless shoe store. They have a great floppy hats for $12.99 (in their store) and $16.99 (on the website). www.payless.com

Another head/hair trend on the rise is feather extensions. They've been showing up on celebrities and are a fun way to celebrate the summer. If you're a student, no worries; but if you work in a professional environment, I recommend getting your extension tucked in the back to be hidden from 8-5. After work, you can release the wild in you!

I'm getting ready to style a photo shoot this weekend and we'll be using the feather extensions... I may have to jump on this trend too :)

 

Me in my floppy hat



Selena Gomez





Hillary Duff

Introduction

Hello all you fashionistas out there! My name is Feliz and I will be giving you a cheat sheet into the fashion world - for less. I love dressing up but as luck would have it, I can't afford to buy all the Alexander McQueen dresses I want (plus it's probably not practical to walk down the street in a feathered dress).

I am on an ongoing mission to find fabulous, expensive looking clothes...on a budget! So whether you're a student scraping pennies, a single mom on-the-go, or just a wonderful woman who would rather spend $100 on 15 items than $100 on 1 item; follow me and I'll help make us all look like a rock star with out the rock star price tag ;)