Smart Splurge of the Day!

The occasion shoe: It should be simple and pretty, yet still lets the dress shine. It should be versatile, and comfortable. It is a splurge worthy purchase because if you get a good pair, you'll be wearing them from gala to gala for years to come! My pick for a great pair of occasion shoes: These Badgley Mischka Ollie Satin Peep toe sandals! Black satin matches almost everything you pair with it, and the bling gives 'em some sass! Originally $190, on sale at RueLaLa for $79.90

Sale Spotlight!

Today on Hautelook: Romeo & Juliet Couture apparel & handbags!

Why you should check it out: Their clothing is simple yet edgy, made out of comfortable fabrics. Think flowy yet sexy - floral tops, cargo pants, and lots of maxi dresses!

My pick: this maxi dress with beaded neckline (orginally $158, now %55)

I love.... Christian Siriano (for Payless!)

When I was younger, it was considered uncool to buy shoes at Payless... Now, not only do I wear them proudly, I love telling people how stylish their budget friendly shoes can be. In recent years they have been stepping up their game with designer collections that range from simple to pushing the envelope. My favorite of all, Christian Siriano for Payless. You probably know him from Project Runway a few years back. He seemed self-centered at times but he has the talent to back it up - and his Payless collections have proved that. Boots, wedges, flats, heels, prints, solids and handbags! For the past few years he's done it all. The price point is a little above the usual Payless prices, but considering his dresses sell for thousands of dollars, it's still a good value ($34.99-$59.99) Check out what Payless is currently offering from him HERE

A Girl Can Dream!

So... finding a "smart splurge" every day is getting to be a bit much with my hectic schedule, so for the time being it will probably only be a few a week... along with a new feature, "A Girl Can Dream," in which I showcase the things I would spend my money on if I had no budget. Expect it to be extra fabulous... and heartbreaking ;) As always, it will never be full price (some things never change!) First thing on my dream list, these Jerome C. Rousseau Matador pumps. They are basically all my favorite things in a nutshell -- strappy heels and animal print. Although not totally splurgeworthy, they still are a deal on Gilt for $349 (originally $795) Like the title of the post says.... A girl can dream!!

Smart Splurge of the Day!

The Shirtdress. It's masculine yet feminine. It's casual yet dressy. You can wear it winter, spring, summer and fall. It's timeless. Finding one you love, it's harder to do than you would think. Whether you opt for black or ivory, odds are you'll love this Andrew Marc shirt dress. My favorite detail is the big bow -- makes it flirtier than most. Originally $340, on sale at Hautelook for $85.

Smart Splurge of the Day!

If asked which celebrity's style I like most, I would probably say Nicole Richie. She can be boho-chic yet casual but can glam it up as well. Her clothing line, Winter Kate, is by far my favorite of all of the recent celebrity clothing lines. This cardigan, is one of my favorite pieces. It is not a cardigan in the usual sense but it is very simple and chic. Originally $145, it is on sale now at Gilt for $79.

Happy Earth Day!

Go Green with these fabulous sales today!



EcoSkin on Hautelook -- I LOVE this brand. Eco-friendly fabrics and clothing shouldn't bring up images of hippies in ill fitting clothing. The clothes from EcoSkin are made out of light, comfortable fabrics and are simple with just the right amount of sex appeal.


Ailin on Hautelook -- Enjoy the great outdoors in eco-friendly workout gear


Eco Home Essentials on ideeli -- Style your home with these eco-friendly homewares that are anything but plain and boring

Shoes for a Good Cause

Keeping with today's theme of shoes...

From time to time Shoedazzle releases a celebrity designed shoe, with proceeds going to the charity of their choice. This time aroung the designer is Jenny McCarthy, and her shoe Fearless, are benefiting Generation Rescue, which aims to help children with autism.

This is definitely a shoe for the "Fearless" woman. Its spikes and studs will add edge to anything you pair it with. If you are a Shoedazzle member, it is in your showroom now. Check it out!

So excited about my newest purchase! :)

Back in high school I was obsessed with Converses. High top, low top, black, red, patterned, white -- I loved them all. Since then, my Cons have worn out and I've been looking to add a pair to my shoe collection for a while. Lucky for me, Gilt has them on sale today. I picked up a pair of the lace-less/slip-ons by John Varvatos. And of course, I had to pick them up in my favorite color (or lack thereof)... black! Best part, today is the last day of Gilt's $5.95 shipping AND I had a $25 credit................... Sooooo, they only cost me $29.95 ;)

Smart Splurge of the Day!

A nude shoe never goes out of style. A peep toe pump never goes out of style. Mix the two together, and you have a wardrobe staple for years to come. This Catherine Amberleigh patent leather peep toe pump is simple yet sexy and will dress up whatever outfit you pair it with. Originally $220, on sale at Gilt for $99.

QUICK TIP!

Want to extend the life of your shoes? ALWAYS make sure the heel pads aren't worn down. Replace them right before you start to see the metal poking through by going to any shoe repair place. Replacing the heel pads only costs between $5-10 depending on where you go. If you pop in often enough and get to know the people who work there, odds are they'll throw in some perks for free. My shoe repair place shines my shoes and fixes the scuffs and tears on the heel for no extra cost.

Smart Splurge of the Day!

The ring I want to wear is silver.... but the metal details on the dress are gold! Such a dilemma -- what's a girl to do?!?! My solution, buy two-toned jewelry! Mixing gold and silver on separately pieces is not a good look, but if they're on the same it's chic chic chic!!! And that is why this Soixante Neuf ring caught my eye. Originally $144, it is $70 on Gilt.

Be a Modern Day Princess!

Billion Dollar Babes, another fabulous members only sample sale site, has a sale today fit for a (future) princess... Head on over for hats, shoes and sunglasses all inspired by the looks of Kate Middleton! You'll be feeling like royalty in no time!

e-Boutique Spotlight

Looking for fun jewelry that won't break the bank?!?!! -- Look no further than Fabuless! The website is affiliated with Girl Props, the totally awesome NYC accessory store, and everything costs under $1.99. Stock up on bangles, earrings, headbands - even sunglasses! Some of it may look a little tacky, but at those prices, it's all in good fun :)

Smart Splurge of the Day!

A good black pump is hard to come by, so when you find one, go ahead and splurge! I tend to go cheap on a lot of my shoes, but my work pumps... those are always $80+. When you find a great shoe at an even better sale, you just gotta go for it! My pick today is this black Josephine leather pump. Originally $275, on sale today at RueLaLa for $129.90.

Smart Splurge of the Day!

Trenchcoats are timeless but it's fun to play with updated styles. This one from Poleci intrigues me because 1. it's denim and 2. it's draped. At first that may sound unattractive but the fabric is light enough and the drape refined that it actually really works. Originally $435, on sale for $149.90 at RueLaLa.

Calypso for Target

The Calypso for Target line doesn't arrive in stores until May 1, but Target just released the lookbook and it is F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S! Summer is going to be a lot more stylish! Prices range from $1.99 to $79.99.

Check out the look book HERE

ANOTHER MACY'S SALE!

Today and tomorrow! Get to the store before 1pm both days and get additional savings with coupon ($10 purchase of $25 or more!)
Keep my tips in mind and GET SHOPPING!

Smart Splurge of the Day!

I rarely advocate spending more than $15 on sunglasses, but these have been on my "I would if I could" list for SO long that seeing them on sale warrants smart splurge status (for me at least!) Tom Ford Mia sunglasses, orginally $325, on sale for $99 at Swirl.

15% off at Filene's Basement

Are you a member of the Filene's Basement Fan Club? If not, this might be some incentive to join. Fan Club members have access to a coupon that gives them 15% off their purchase through the end of April!

Smart Splurge of the Day!

Diamonds may be a girl's best friend, but a quality piece of costume jewelry can hold a very special place in your heart. The king of costume jewelry, by far, is Kenneth Jay Lane, with styles that range from classy and understated to glitzy and TOTALLY over the top. My pick today: this CZ by KJL graduated oval necklace. It is simple yet glamorous, and no one need to know those aren't real diamonds ;) Originally $498, it is on sale at ideeli for $275.

Great finds in Target Clearance

Clearance sections are usually hit or miss, but if you take the time to really look, odds are you'll find a few gems. I usually have a lot of luck with the Target clearance section. Here are my most recent finds...

Gilligan&O'Malley nightgown: originally $17.99; clearance $4.48

Mossimo sandals: originally $19.99; clearance $13.98

Merona ruffle skirt: originally $24.99; clearance $6.24

And if you do the math for those 3 things, it was just over $25 with tax :)

You paid how much?!

Platform pumps are one (slightly painful) trend that doesn't seem to be going away. We can credit YSL for bringing this look back, as their platform pumps are most popular on the red carpet with celebrities. You don't have to break the bank to rock this look though...

Yves Sant Laurent Tribute Brown pump, $760 (Nordstrom)

Michael Antonio Leno platform Brown pump, $39.95(Endless)

Smart Splurge of the Day!

The clothes in your closet are cute... shouldn't the rest of your room be? Bedding is splurge-worthy because it's something you're going to use for years. Why not just go head and spring for something nice! I personally like to keep things simple with the occasional pop of color. The offerings from Blissliving fit right into my design asthetic. Ruelala has a sale on their bedding sets, originally $210-$310, now on sale for $119.90-$159.90. My personal favorite is the "Anis" comforter set (pictured.)

Smart Splurge of the Day!

Universally figure-flattering, wrap dresses should be a girl's best friend (next to diamonds of course.) Wear it to work with comfy flats or sass it up with some super high heels for a date. This Mara Hoffman wrap dress stood out to me because of the print - it's so fun! I should also note that it is a faux wrap dress - so you still get all the figure flattering benefits of it being a wrap, and you don't have to worry about a strong gust of wind blowing up the outer layer or somehow accidentally untieing the dress. Originally $308, its available at Swirl for $79.

Smart Splurge of the Day!

Quilted purses will never go out of style. Whether you get yours from Chanel or the flea market, it has the ability to add a bit of sophistication to even the most dressed down outfits. I like the Rebeca Minkoff Quilted Flame small satchel because the shape is interesting, and the studs add an edgy element to the bag. Originally $495, it is currently $269 on Gilt.

Nine West Sale!

Nine West is currently offering 40% off select pre-Spring styles! Not only will you be ahead of the (style) game, but you'll still manage to keep your wallet happy.

My pick: Jemster. The jewels dress it up and the heel is the perfect height for a long girls night out. Originally $79; on sale for $47.40

e-Boutique Spotlight

I am always on the lookout for the funkiest accessories, and very few stores offer more than Brooklyn-based Fred Flare. If you're looking for whimsical and cutesy pieces, look no further. I'm particularly fond of their sunglasses, most of which cost $12 or less.

CHECK IT OUT!

Smart Splurge of the Day!

Looking good isn't just about the clothes you wear... it's about overall appearance. You can be wearing the chicest outfit, but if your hair is off, the whole look is ruined. A nice blowdryer and styling set is a must. Our hair is one of our greatest accessories and we need to care for it well. To help your tresses look their best, check out this iTech Ionic hair dryer on Hautelook. It comes with a round brush and hairclips. Originally $230, it is on sale today only for $99. Now if only we could find cheaper ways to save our hair on humid days!

Smart Splurge of the Day!

I know I said I'd keep it simple and classic with the smart splurges, but if you keep everything else simple, a statement piece is still an investment, right?!

That being said, I am in love with this alice + olivia leather jacket. The ruffles make it edgy yet girly, and I personally think this jacket could be daytime or nighttime. Wear it to work with a solid colored shift dress underneath, or with jeans and sky-high heels at night. Originally $495, it is currently available on Gilt for $219.

Smart Splurge of the Day!

Evening gowns. I haven't spent too much time shopping for them but whenever I have had to it's always been nothing but stress. I want something simple, but I still want to stand out in the crowd. Will be it cold? Do I have to find a matching shawl? So many questions, and they can all be solved in one dress. This Tadashi Shoji dress has a classic silhoutte, but the sequins keep it from being boring. The dress also has a matching bolero, which will keep you warmer on those walks from the car to the gala. Another advantage to this dress -- it's style is timeless. Wait a few more years (and many more events) and you'll be able to wear it again! Originally $688, it is currently on sale at ideeli for $249

Too cute jewelry!

While searching for today's Smart Splurge I came across the Cam & Zooey sale on Hautelook. Their designs range from bohemian and whimsical to showy and sexy. It's jewelry that can be worn with jeans and a teeshirt, or a tank top and a miniskirt, depending on your mood. Most pieces are 70%+ until tomorrow, so be sure to check it out before they're all gone!

My recent Macy's sale finds!!!

Sorry for the delay! It's been a busy few days, but as promised, here are the recent deals I found at Macy's...

INC dress: Originally $89; paid $8.90

Alfani dress: Originally $79; paid $19.99

Donna Rico dress: Originally $138; paid $27.60

Ellen Tracy shirt: Originally $89.50; paid $15.99

Sunny Leigh shirt: Originally $54; paid $10.80

Total savings for these 5 items.... $366.22!!!

Smart Splurge of the Day!

Some people think cowboy boots belong one place -- the rodeo. I personally think they can add an edge to a simple t-shirt and jeans. These cowboy boots by Madison Harding are more refined than any you'd find on the ranch, and I love the height of the stacked heel. Originally $265, they are now available for $99 on Gilt Groupe.

Smart Splurge of the Day!

A good black dress can be found pretty easily but a GREAT black dress is very hard to come by. The details on the upper part of this Valentino dress, combined with the classic and flattering silohoutte will have you standing out in the crowd. (And who knows how to make a woman feel sexy better than Valentino!) Available at Gilt Groupe for $199, the dress retails for $595.

Image taken from Gilt Groupe

You paid how much?!?!

Embellished wedges... They're like jewelry for your feet! I have long been a fan of wedges because they are just as high as some of my favorite heels, but a LOT comfier.

These Carlos Santana wedges, available at Macy's for $99, are not priced badly, but good luck finding them on sale before the end of the summer.

These Mossimo wedges, available at Target, give you the same look for only $29.99

QUICK TIP!

Oil/grease stains are probably the most annoying stains to try and get out of clothing. I know I was not alone in worrying my clothing would be ruined because of a tiny oil or grease spot. Well fret no more, because I've discovered a way to pre-treat that has proven very successful in getting these types of spots out.

First... don't wait too long before doing this. You want to make sure you get the spot while it is still fresh. On a cloth or paper towel, combine a little bit of water with dish soap and dab at the spot. Massage the soap in VERY gently and dab again with only a paper towel/cloth with water. Use very little soap and water, since the water can cause the spot to spread. You can repeat the process before hand or machine washing, or dry cleaning.

E is for Exciting things at Ebay!

Spring is looking to be the season for pastels, and what better place to get started shopping for your spring look than eBay! This week, the Fashion Vault has flowy pastels from Kenneth Cole and Vivian Tam.

sidenote.....While browsing on eBay I also noticed that you can now buy clothes from the Bluefly and Calvin Klein websites directly from them. One stop shopping!

Back on the subject of Kenneth Cole/Vivian Tam sale, here are my picks:
Vivian Tam mulitcolored skirt - retails for $98, vault price $44.99
Kenneth Cole cap sleeve dress - retails for $129m vault price $54.99

Both are fashion foward and super comfy and are a deal that is definitely worth it.

Happy Monday and Happy Shopping :)

QUICK TIP!

Tired of squeezing your toes into shoes while waiting to break them in? Here's a tip to help stretch them out...

Fill a smaller to medium sized ziplock bag halfway with water and make sure it is closed tight. Position the bag in the front of the shoe and put the shoe in the freezer for a few hours. The water will expand when the ice forms, stretching out the front of the shoe. The next time you go to wear the shoes, they should be a lot more comfortable. Just don't leave them in the freezer! No one likes having freezy feet :)

Smart Splurge of the Day!

White watches. At first, I wasn't too sure about them. Now I think they are the definition of CHIC CHIC CHIC. It's always going to stand out, but if that's the statement you want to make then I think a white watch is worth investing in. Swiss Legend watches are known for being high quality, stunning time pieces. My pick of the day is the Karamica white and silver watch retails for $995 and is available on Gilt for $250.

Help JustFab Help Japan!

Just Fabulous, another members only monthly shoe site, is doing some good this month. 100% of the proceeds from the Pam shoe will go to the American Red Cross to help them provide relief in Japan. Pam is a basic peeptoe and is available in four colors. All shoes on JustFab cost $39.95 and Pam will show up in everyone's showroom.

My Shoedazzle picks for April!

I first joined Shoedazzle in October '09 after a friend told me about it. $39.95 a month and you get to pick out a pair of shoes from a showroom tailored to your style and interest. Now, they offer shoes, handbags and jewelry. Here are my top picks for the month of April:

Claudette - This strappy shoe will go seamlessly from Spring to Summer, and will add a little bit of sex appeal to the simplest of outfits. Keep it neutral or opt for the pop of color with this shoe.
Parker - Absolutely classic. If you're looking for a shoe that won't be a seasonal trend, Parker is what you need.
Carmen - It is looking like yellow is going to be the color of the season and this strappy shoe will have you right on with the trend. The lower heel makes Carmen a comfy choice.
Samsun - Keeping in line with the bright theme - Samsun will brighten any outfit and is casual yet fabulous.
Cuff and Color - Make a bold statement with this cuff and earrings set. For as much as it stands out, this set is surprisingly versatile and will add an edge to any outfit you pair it with.

NOTE: Shoedazzle is a members only site. Once you join it takes about 3 days to get your personalized showroom. After that you will get one on the first of every month. Just because my picks don't appear in your showroom doesn't mean you can't order them. Follow the links provided and you're all set!