Accessories
Great Winter Hats For Under $20
Your winter hat is a huge part of your outwear ensemble—even as much as your winter coat. In fact, a stellar winter hat can add a whole new dimension to an otherwise basic (read: boring) neutral colored winter coat. It can also help to extend the life of your coat, not by fixing or altering it (which I will discuss in a later post), but by drawing the eye upwards and making your hat (and not your ratty old coat) the centerpiece of your outfit. Here’s some of my favorite winter hat picks, all for under $20.
Faux Fur Trapper Hat, $19.99 at Target.com.Back in the day in my home state of Minnesota, I used to wear Trapper Hats (purchased from the local Menards-you midwesterns know EXACTLY what I am talking about) because they were the only hats that could keep your head, ears, and face warm in sub-zero weather. Now these hats are one of the few fashion trends that is both practical and stylish. I love this version for its great price point, and of course the warm factor.
Solid Wool Beret, $12.99 at Target. I’ve been obsessing over yellow wool berets ever since I saw the title character of the movie “Shopaholic” rock a version on one of her many shopping sprees. Since that time I’ve acquire two (both from my grandmother-it’s amazing what you can find in their closets) and every time I wear them, people compliment me. I even had the actor, Anthony Anderson, comment on my hat at a coffee shop while on break from filming “Law & Order.” This hat is best paired with a bright colored coat (purple or bright blue works best). Also note that this is a wool hat without lining, so extra care should be taken to make sure it doesn’t dry out your hair.
Cat Ear Beanie Hat, $20 at Topshop. This hat is soo cute that I had to include it. It’s a conversation starter (as in “Where did you get that hat?”), so be prepared with an answer. You can even trick it out by placing a stud earring on one of the cat ears.
Popcorn Knit Beret, $9.50 at OldNavy.com Yeah, this is an “uptown” version of your standard issue beret, but I love how the bright blue color makes this hat a total standout. I spotted versions of this hat at UrbanOutfitters for close to $30.00, making the choice quite obvious.
Faux Fur Fleece Reversible Bucket Hat in black, $19.99 at Amazon.com. I love this hat because it offers the glamourous styling of a fur hat minus, well, the animal fur. It’s also a bit more feminine than the trapper hat. The hat is also lined in fleece, which provides additional warmth.
Fun Line from HSN & Lucky Mag
What: Lucky Magazine and HSN have put their heads together for an exciting Designer Capsule Collection, featuring pieces from seven designers, including Rebecca Taylor. The collection is made up of adorable dresses and accessories that are perfect for a night out on the town or a cozy house party; however, it’s all casual enough to be worn just about anywhere. You can shop for the line on HSN either online, or on TV October 16th and 17th. The line is also available at featured Lucky events from November 5th-7th .
What They Say:
Some items from this premiere collection include:
• Shoshanna: Two sexy cocktail dresses, offered in two-three colors each.
• Rebecca Taylor: A chic, drapey cardigan, available in five colors.
• Tracy Reese: One body skimming party dress and one dolman-sleeved jersey cardigan, in four colors each.
• Kooba: A stylishly oversized patent leather satchel, available in three colors.
• Gerard Yosca: Two colorful necklaces with handmade glass drops and two pairs of matching earrings.
• Rebecca Minkoff: Four classic, go-anywhere handbags in two-four colors each.
• Helen Ficalora: Two delicate sterling silver charm sets.
What We Say: While we’re not jumping for joy at the price points of the Lucky/HSN line (there’s a $350 handbag and $129 necklace), we like that most of the line costs under $100, like this $69.90 cardigan. Plus, shoppers can split their payments up over time if they need to.
Any takers?
Meghan Cleary’s New Suede Shoes
What: She has authored books and made countless appearances on TV, and now “shoe expert” Meghan Cleary is coming out with her very own line of designer footwear, too. The new collection, dubbed Miss Meghan, will include suede ankle booties when it debuts at ShopNBC and on ShopNBC.com on October 29th. However, Cleary says she plan to expand the brand with a line of ballet flats, a clutch purse, and platform pumps, in time for the holidays in December. Even better—Cleary says almost the entire line of shoes will be priced under $50 a pair.
What WWD Says:
“For the last several years, I’ve done a lot of appearances and women always come up to me and pour out their shoe stories,” said Cleary. “I’m able to incorporate all of that knowledge into my shoe line and a lot of the pieces are about things I’m looking for as well.”
What We Say: Suede booties are a hot fall accessory, so we’re excited at the prospect of being able to pick a pair—or two—up for under $50. Not only that, but based on what we’ve heard so far, Cleary has really taken comfort into the equation in the design of the shoes as well, giving us yet another reason to tune in on October 29th to buy a pair of booties for ourselves.
Premier Comfort Plus Cushion Insoles: Product Review
What: Marilyn reviews Premier (brand) Comfort Plus Cushion Insoles $3(also available in double thickness for $5-6). You can find them online for as low as $.98.
The Lowdown: Maybe it is the onslaught of Fall and hard shoes after a summer of bare feet, sandals, and sneakers, but I am addicted to these. I like every step to be cushioned. Moreover, I have a narrow foot and I like a snug fit. Even narrow shoes can stretch and widen a bit.
I was delighted to find these at a shoe repair shop. (I am delighted to find shoe repair shops, for they are dying breeds.), because they come in sizes that match your shoe size. Most varieties sold in drugstores, Target, etc. come in one size and you have to trim it to fit.
Of course, I also get all of my shoe soles skimmed in rubber (unless they already are rubber). This costs about $22/pair, but it gives my shoes extra more cushion. helps them to last longer, and prevents slips. I’ve broken two (both) feet in the past 2 years and that is enough.
Five Bamboo Handbag: Product Review
What: Angela gets eco-friendly by accessorizing with the Five “Night” Bamboo Handbag.
The Lowdown: First things first—“Five” Accessories is an online store specializing in eco-friendly, socially conscious handbags and accessories, with $5 from each handbag purchase and 15 percent of all other sales to each individual artisan’s local cause. At TBF, we’re suckers for anything that mixes fashion with charitable giving, so we were on board from the start. But no matter how much we love giving, we also want to be sure to get the best value for our dollar.
Fortunately, at least in the case of this particular handbag, value is what we got. The bag itself—Balinese-made—is an evening-appropriate clutch style constructed of thin bamboo slats, and features fabric-lining with an inside pocket, a metal clasp and wooden handles. Which may not sound terribly chic or practical, but trust us, it is. The slats are thin enough that the bag folds and bends, the handles are smooth and solid, and the magnetic metal clasp holds tight. It’s lightweight and roomy enough to toss in your lip gloss, compact, phone, credit cards, and then some. And it looks fab. What more could an eco-conscious girl want?
The Verdict: It’s a Yea on all levels, and even better, it’s on sale now $30 for medium (12” wide by 6” tall) and $35 for large (14” wide by 6” tall), online only at Fiveaccessories.com.
Women Suffer for Fashionable Footwear
What: If you’ve ever suffered while wearing a pair of too-tight stilettos, you’re hardly alone. According to a new study by the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists, nearly four in 10 women say they buy shoes that they know don’t fit, while 37 percent of women admitted they’d wear uncomfortable shoes if they were fashionable. Unfortunately, these “killer” heels can cause lingering health problems, including ingrown nails and corns.
What They Say:
“Many of us find it hard to resist a bargain and the latest fashion must-have, but it’s important to remember that by buying ill-fitting shoes, you’re not only going to end up in discomfort, but you are also putting your health at risk,” said Lorraine Jones, of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists.
What We Say: Who hasn’t squeezed into a pair of heels that were super cute but way too small? While it’s important to be fashion forward, it’s more important to take care of your health. Wearing high heels on a regular basis can cause back pain, corns, and ingrown nails—to name a few ailments. We’d rather pick up a cute pair of flats that actually fit than a pair of heels that make our feet. What do you think?
Rachel Zoe’s for QVC
What: Get ready to die over stylist Rachel Zoe’s new clothing and accessories line for QVC. Days ahead of the collection’s official debut at Fashion Week, Zoe has published a sneak peak online. The looks, full of faux fur, clutch purses, and mega-sized jewelry, will officially go on sale at QVC.com on September 12th.
What They Say:
“Priced from $32-$130, these pieces are an easy and affordable way to add some bling to your basics this fall.”
What We Say: Is there anyone who doesn’t have a QVC fashion line? Despite our hesitations about Rachel, this collection might be something to check out. She just needs to remember that it’s one thing to dress celebrities like your ultra thin (and we mean that not in a nice way) self and it’s another thing to dress the average American woman.
Anna Sheffield for Target
Anna Sheffield is collaborating with Target on a jewelry collection that hits stores August 30 and features an eclectic design style using sterling silver to create a flirty assortment that will kickoff the fall season in style. The designer pulls inspiration from her surroundings to create a collection of keepsake pieces, including a range of delicate drop and playful stud earrings, charm necklaces with multi-chains and rings adorned with colored stones. The exclusive Anna Sheffield for Target collection is available at a great value, ranging in price from $19.99 to $79.99.
New York based jewelry designer, Anna Sheffield, hails from New Mexico where a rich artistic and elemental environment, as well as her studies in fine art, provide her with unlimited inspiration. Anna Sheffield is best known for her Bing Bang and Anna Sheffield jewelry collections which are sold at various stores across the country as well as a favorite within celebrity circles. The Anna Sheffield for Target collection brings stylish finds at guilt-free prices to fashionistas nationwide.
Earring Sets, $24.99. Hearts & Thoughts Hoop Charm Earrings, $39.99
Necklaces, $29.99-$49.99
Fabric Necklaces: Fall Fashion Guide 2009
1. Crazy Fabric Necklace, $19.99 at Etsy.com
2. Urban Renewal Studded Jersey Necklace , $14.98 at Urban Outfitters.
3. Pleated Bead Trim Ribbon Necklace, $6.80 at Forever21.com
4. Spring Fabric Necklace, $9.95 at Etsy.com
5. Fireworks Fabric Necklace, $38.00 at Anthropologie
Here’s a really excellent tutorial on how to make your own fabric necklaces (http://www.cucumbersome.com/diy-recycled-fabric-necklace/).
Butterfly Necklaces : Fall 2009 Fashon Guide
1. Wooden Butterfly Pendant Necklace - Red - with FREE GIFT BAG, $8.90 at Etsy.com
2. Butterfly Wing Pendant , $15.00 at Etsy.com
3. FULL TILT Butterfly 16” Necklace , $5.99 at Tilly.com
4. Butterfly and Blossom Necklace, $8.80, at Forever21.com
5. Vintage Butterfly Necklace, $36.00 at Etsy.com
New Urban Outfitters Hats and Statement Jewelry
What: Apparently, the little things really count to Urban Outfitters. Like a lot. They’re all about the accessories (that includes your cell phone). Well, now they’re getting into hats this August with a hat line from Eugenia Kim (she’s famous for designing everything from socialite-worthy straw hats to funky berets), called Eek! But that’s not all - Urban Outfitters will follow that up with a new jewelry line - called Clea - from Annie Costello Brown, which will include statement pieces.
What We Say: Way to lead the pack. We wouldn’t have guessed it, but maybe hats are back. Or, was there ever a time they weren’t “in?” Anyways, since the recession seems to be lingering around, we’re all about bulking up our wardrobe with affordable details.
Now that Urban Outfitters has got us pegged, from top to bottom, might you find yourself inspired by stylish head wear?
Buy One Pair, Get One Free at EyeBuyDirect.com
The Deal: Buy one pair of eyeglasses at EyeBuyDirect.com and get a second pair for free, for one week only.
The Lowdown: If you’re the kind of girl who keeps a different pair of stylish eyeglasses for every occasion, EyeBuyDirect.com has got a sale you won’t be able to pass up. The online optical retailer is offering customers the chance to buy two pairs of glasses for the price of one, from 12:01 a.m. on July 20th through 11:59 p.m. on July 26th.
Although designer sun and eyewear, sport goggles, and safety glasses aren’t included in the offer, nearly all other eyeglasses shown on the site are up for grabs. We found tons of fashion forward eyeglasses that definitely looked like they’d be worth checking out, especially with prices for the frames and lenses included in the offer starting at just $14.
These “Amazon” rectangular frames—with pink and back stripes along the inside—are a steal for just $24.95, reduced from a retail value of $125. And as part of EyeBuyDirect’s upcoming deal, you could get a second pair of glasses for equal or lesser value completely free.
Even better: EyeBuyDirect.com features a “Virtual EyeTry” portal where customers can upload a photograph of themselves and see what they’d look like in any style available. Genius!
Shop: EyeBuyDirect.com
Jimmy Choo for H&M This Fall
On November 14, British accessories brand, Jimmy Choo will bring its international glamour, coveted shoes and bags to about 250 H&M stores around the world. To celebrate the collaboration, Jimmy Choo will extend its design vision to create a women’s clothing range for H&M that will complement the accessory capsule. Additionally, this exciting collaboration will include a men’s collection of shoes, bags and accessories.
Nordstrom Rack to Head to New York?
What: Word is that Nordstrom’s Rack is expected to head to NYC sometime this year- possibly taking over the space left by the departing Virgin Megastore.
From WWD: A spokesperson from Nordstrom Inc. told WWD “We locked at Union Square and would like to have a Rack in Manhattan. Nothing is signed yet. We are talking to them.”
What I Say: This is a very good thing…. A very good thing and as it turns Union Square into the discount center of NYC, with Trader Joe’s,F21, Filene’s and DSW all located in the same area. The Rack is known for it’s amazing collection of discount designer shoes, which will make it a direct competitor to the DSW Shoewarehouse, also located in Union Square. Let the sales begin
Carlos Falchi To Target
Uber expensive handbag designer and animal skin lover Carlos Falchi (we would link to his site, but the site is “down”) is partnering up with Target this fall for a line of handbags and accessories. The line, available November 1 through December 27, 2009., will probably feature tons of faux bling (think plastic python and snake print).
We wonder how these designers lines are doing for Target. Every time we head into our target, we notice there’s a lot of GO designer stuff on sale. We’re just saying…
Ikat Print: Trend for Less
Ikat print continues to be a major trend with pieces featuring the print popping up at every store from Forever21 to Macys to Saks. Ikat print isn’t to be confused with “African Print” - Ikat print involves the weaving of thread into a patterns, while African print usually involves the stamping/painting of a pattern on a piece of fabric. When wearing an Ikat printed item, keep the rest of your outfit simple, as the print IS your signature piece.
Here’s Our Picks for Getting the Ikat Print Trend for Less
Accessories
1. Global Ikat Scarf, $3.99 at UrbanOutfitters.com
2. Ikat Head Wrap, $2.99 at Charlotte Russe.
3. Astar Ikat Print Pareo, $8.80 at Forever21.com
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Dresses
1. Ikat Print Dress, $98.00 at Banana Republic
2. Imagination Smocked Ikat Strapless Dress, on sale for $19.00 at Kohls
3. AGB Ikat Print Sleeveless Voile Maxi Dress, $69.00 at Macys.com
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Tops
Braided Ikat Top, $49.50 at Gap
French Connection Ikat Belted Batwing Jumper, $62.52 at Asos.com
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Skirts
1. Faith21 Plus Size Ikat Print Skirt, $15.80 at Forever21.com
2. Charter Club Ikat-Print Cotton Voile Skirt, on sale for $51.75 at Macys.com
3. Ikat Print Mini-Skirt, $99 at DKNY.com
Oversized “Ethnic” Necklaces: Trend for Less
Last year about this time, we noticed statement jewelry, aka super big, necklaces - as a top trend (some were so big, it was hard not to notice, which, we guess, was kind of the point). But we were careful to warn against overshadowing the rest of your outfit and yourself with a necklace that was just too big. But it seems that bigger could be better these days, especially when it comes to oversized “ethnic” necklaces. We still suggest that you don’t follow in the tiny footsteps of Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen and bury yourself in clothes and accessories that dwarf your body.
By “oversized” and “ethnic”, we mean thick, chunky, wooden beads, brass accents, bold colors- basically a necklace that WASPy sistas like Bree from “Desperate Housewives” wouldn’t be caught wearing in a million years (large wooden beads don’t really match your Lily Pultizer tennis dress). The key to wearing the trend? Keep everything you wear simple. VERY simple. Skip the earrings and bracelets, the necklace IS the statement piece.
How to get the trend for less:
Dark Brown Fashion Jungle Necklace, $25, from Paula Karen
Oversized Funky Animal Print Heart Love Chain Long Necklace Set, $16.50, from TigerStars.com (Pictured)
Cathedral Necklace, $33, from Chico’s
Wood and jasper necklace with large stone pendant, $20 at Etsy
BKE Oversized Teardrop Necklace, $7, from Buckle
Oversized Pearl Necklace with Jade Pendant, $79, from Grandin Road
$1 Old Navy Flip-Flop Sale
“THIS SALE HAS ENDED”
Old Navy is having a big sale on flip-flops- with it’s entire selection for $1 on Saturday, May 23rd ONLY. Please resist the urge to wear them as sandals…
Bebe Sandal, Sothy’s Delicious Scrub, Marc by Marc Jacobs Colors for Spring, J Crew Belt and More
FabSugar finds an affordable alternative to the swoon-worthy Stella McCartney Mesh Sandal (approximately $600) for just $139 - the Bebe Lizzy Mesh Sandal. Not quite the same, but close enough, and far more wallet friendly.
Lemondrop has a delightful new obsession; the Sothy’s Delicious Scrub, a yummy wonder-scrub that revitalizes winter skin and even replaces shaving cream. Little bit pricey though; $44.
Omiru finds an affordable, adorable detail for any wardrobe; the J Crew floral bouquet sash belt, for $35, a sophisticated and versatile accessory.
Fashion Trend: Floral Print Heels
What: Apparently, everyone’s adding a little spring to their step - with floral print heels.
What We Say: Floral prints in general tend to come and go, whereas floral print heels are a bit more timeless. They go with just about everything, though we suggest pairing them with solids, not other patterns. The rule of thumb is- the busier your shoes, the simpler the rest of your outfit should be - and vice versa. For those who are a little weary of this seasons’ floral print trend, flowery heels are a great, subtler alternative to printed blouses and dresses. We’ve got some affordable options for you, ranging from retro to church-ready.
Get It:
NaNa Emiko Keels, $19.99, Fashion Lives Online
Retro Floral Heels, $32, Electrica Clothing
Burgundy Floral Peep Toe Platform Heel Pump, $14.99, AMICLUBWEAR
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