Old Navy
Revisiting the Little Black Dress
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
What: The classic Little Black Dress as your budget go-to piece for fall/winter 08.
Why: If you need your fashion dollars to stretch even further than usual right now, it’s time to revisit that old standby, the Little Black Dress (or LBD). If you don’t already have one (and instead give into temptation each season to purchase a new, trendy, here-now-gone-tomorrow dress) we have some advice for you—get one. It may not be the most exciting option, but it is the most versatile, and with the right accessories? It’ll take you from function to function through the holiday season, in great style and without breaking the bank. Fortunately, black is in this season, and you’ll find everything from a simple sheath to some edgier options, as well as pieces that can go from casual to dressy. And as every good budget fashionista knows, value and versatility are the keys to being truly well dressed.
We’ve picked a few options (for under $50 each) that should take you through the season; just add a big clutch, a pair of peep toe pumps, and a statement piece of jewelry (maybe a chunky necklace or a metallic cuff bracelet) and go.
Knee Length Basic Dress, $19.90, Forever21
Isaac Mizrahi for Target Embroidered Lace Dress, $39.99, Target.
Isaac Mizrahi for Target Envelope Back Dress, $49.99, Target.
Mock Neck Ponte Knit Dress, $39, Newport News
Plus size: Cachet Matte Jersey Dress, $49.90, Nordstrom
Women’s Plus Notch-Front Dress, $32.50, Old Navy
Women’s Fall Coat Trends
Fall is the time to set aside that bathing suit (which many of us are not that sorry to see go) and start thinking about outerwear to fend of the impending chill. If last year’s coat needs to be retired, or if you just need something new to help you face all that cold weather ahead, there are plenty of budget options you can pick up now. Some of our fave outerwear trends for the season, and where to get them for less:
The Peacoat: We love the peacoat because it’s a classic that will last and last. Go for traditional navy, camel or black for a timeless version, or update with a hot color like red or a short cut to make it current.
Women’s Short Peacoat, $69.50, Old Navy
Hydraulic Peacoat with Epaulets, on sale $93.75, Macy’s
Merona Swing Peacoat in Plaid, $49.99, Target
The Swing Coat: The swing coat has been coming on strong for the last year or so as a jacket and outerwear option, and we like how flattering the silouette is to just about everyone. Just be sure to keep the bottom half lean when you wear it, lest you look like a large bell rather than the super chic woman you really are.
Women’s Pique Wool Blend Coat, $89, Old Navy
Wool Swing Coat, $109, Newport News
The Leather Jacket: The leather jacket is another classic, but the most modern way to wear it is in a short, close fitting cut or in a sleek belted trench (no bulky shapeless overcoats this year, please).
a.n.a Faux Leather 4-Pocket Scuba Jacket, on sale $89.99, JC Penney
Leather Trench Coat, on sale $80, Newport News
The Trench Coat: The trench is another classic we’re always talking about here at TBF—we love how it’s updated right now with color and modern details, like the berry trench and banded bottom versions here, which are great for dressier occasions.
Mossimo Black Satin Trench, $39.99, Target
Hot Sale Items at Old Navy
The Deal: Women’s sale items at Old Navy.com
The Lowdown: Pick up end of the summer pieces or something to transition into fall with, shopping Old Navy’s sale section right now. There are plenty of cute items to choose from, and if you want something to wear right now, we’d suggest this printed tie-neck shirt for $15; wear a tie-neck blouse with denim and flats, or dress up with gray wide-leg trousers and pumps.
Shop: Old Navy
Fashion Trend: Cross Body Purses
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
A friend of ours recently arrived to a party with a small, white leather bag with a long strap worn across her chest. Inspired by her off-the-beaten-path style, we set out to find these purses at our favorite shopping haunts. Since our friend is in love with fashion, we weren’t surprised to find that the small purse is growing in popularity; we assume it’s a reaction to the gigantic totes and hobos we’ve been carrying for a few seasons, and we’re happy to see that there are more options out there for those of us who don’t carry everything and the kitchen sink on our shoulders. The return of the clutch heralded the return of smaller purses, and the options are encouraging. But don’t worry about looking like you came from the 80’s in a time machine—this millennium’s embellishments, fabrics and details have been applied to the decades-old shapes.
Use the chain-link strap that comes with this raffia clutch from Old Navy—it’s currently $4.99.
If you want a more classic purse, try this camera purse from Urban Outfitters. We love its rich cognac color. Now $24.99
The snake trim clutch from Topshop is a bit of a splurge, but since it’s quality leather, you’ll keep it for years. 30 pounds.
This little red cross body purse was found in a thrift shop and embellished with pieces of jewelry. The quilted pattern is classy and traditional, while the bright red keeps it from looking outdated. $19.00.
New York Fashion Week Spring 2009: Vera Wang
What: Vera Wang Runway Show, Tent at Bryant Park, New York City Fashion Week Spring 09
The Lowdown: We’re not sure why Vera Wang wants us in shapeless sack dresses and giant chain necklaces, but it appears that she does. This Spring 09 collection couldn’t be more somber, featuring black, gray, brown and a very drab dark olive, and a smattering of silver, gold, and orange that just couldn’t quite cheer things up. We did like some of the 20s vibe we felt with certain pieces, and we’ll give Wang credit for doing something other than all the cinched waists we’ve seen on other runways. The only problem? Well, we were kinda liking those cinched waists . . .
Budget Solution: If you happen to like a tunic or shift dress, or if it just suits your body type best, then this is a silouette you can make work for Spring. Hit Old Navy for this Sleeveless Satin Shift Dress in Stainless Steel, $25 or try Twelve by Twelve come Spring.
image courtesy of Coutorture.com
Fashion Trend Alert: Tie-Neck Blouses
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
In the past, only certain types of women have been able to truly pull off menswear , Katharine Hepburn among them. Right now though, aspects of menswear are appearing all over, giving everyone the opportunity to be a little androgynous. But don’t think of the 1980’s working woman blouse with the limp, sad-looking bow at the neck when you picture this trend. This year’s tie-neck blouse has sharper lines, comes in a variety of fabrics, and it doesn’t have to be worn with a business suit.
The button down, pseudo men’s tie: Fitted tie neck shirt, GAP, $32.99
The Technicolor checkered billowy tie: Printed tie-neck shirt, Old Navy, $15.00
The satin, knotted tie: City Style Wide Tie Satin blouse, NY and Company, $24.46.
The sheer, sparkly long tie: Black tie striped chiffon tie-neck blouse, Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent, Bluefly.com, $55.00.
The boldly printed tie: JM Collection Tie-Neck Printed Charmeuse Blouse, Macys.com, $44.00.
The fuchsia bow tie: Nicole by Nicole Miller tie-neck top, JCPenney.com, $33.60.
Fashion Trend: Open Front Cardigans
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
What: Drapey, open front cardigans as an alternative to the jacket or traditional cardigan
What We Say: Because it’s feminine and interesting, we like it—however, we have some reservations. 1. Too much draping could add a whole lot of bulk where you don’t want it. 2. All that extra fabric in front could get in the way if you are, say, doing anything other than posing for a catalogue photo shoot. We wouldn’t recommend cooking in it . . . 3. It will probably look dated in about two months. Okay, having said all that—we still like it, we’re just not going to invest a lot of cash into the trend. And we don’t want you to either, so we’ve tracked down a few very budget options, so you can have fun with the look, layering it over the standby basics you’ve already got in your closet, with no regrets.
Linette Open Front Cardigan, $19.80, Forever21
Women’s Drape Front Cardigan, $19.50, Old Navy.
Isaac Mizrahi for Target Drape Front Merino Cardigan, $39.99, Target.
Transition Dressing: Fashion Advice
As August starts to wind down, thoughts turn to fall . . . and fall fashion. While we’re always anxious to jump into the season’s latest look, there’s the pesky matter of weather to contend with—and while the calendar may say it’s fall, there’s that in between time—when the mornings are brisk but by noon the mercury’s hit a sticky 80 degrees—that is soooooo very challenging to dress for. Of course, any fashionista worth her salt knows that layering is the way to go, but what to layer? We’ve got some ideas for what layering pieces will work to keep you both comfortable and in style as we bridge summer to fall 08:
Sleeveless or Short-Sleeved Tops
Think cotton, soft jersey, sheer, and keep the colors soft or neutral—no neon but not quite holiday-ready jewel tones either. This Women’s Twisted Neck Top at Old Navy is a perfect choice to layer under a jacket or cardigan, being sleeveless and a light breathable fabric, in a color like bordeaux, which could be appropriate almost year round. Another good choice—a short-sleeve turtleneck in a light, 100% cotton knit, like this Cinched Turtle Neck Top at Wet Seal, which will be stylish and comfortable both under a jacket and on it’s own, depending on whether you’re heading to work in the a.m. or on your way home . . .
Jackets
Consider a three-quarter length sleeve in either a curve-conscious fitted style or the 60s inspired cropped jackets that are still popular (like this City Style 1-Snap Jacket, $59.50 at New York & Co.)—and think a mid-weight cotton or even a linen in a fall-ready pattern like this Textured Linen Tie Blazer in plaid, on sale $24.99 at La Redoute
Short Sleeve or Elbow Sleeve Cardigans
Three-quarter length and shorter sleeved cardies are all over right now, and are the perfect layering piece to slip on over that cami or sleeveless blouse (and later, under a tailored jacket, assuming the sweater is short enough). This Elbow-Sleeved Cardigan at Gap is a versatile wardrobe staple for $44, while an Xhilaration Cap Sleeved Open Cardigan is a slightly trendier option, for $17.99.
Vests
Not quite ready for a jacket? Transition with a vest—they’re popular this year (though it seems people either love ‘em or hate ‘em), especially with the sort of vintage/glam/menswear/tweed trends we’re seeing—meaning they’ll be super versatile. Right now wear one alone over a short-sleeved blouse and make it work later (when the chill really sets in) by putting it over a long-sleeved top and/or under a cardie or jacket. A fall-friendly option? This Herringbone Vest, $22, at Forever21.
Scarves
Lightweight scarves are super hot this summer and fall, and are a no brainer for adding a little extra style and warmth (and easy enough to shed later when you don’t need it). At the moment, you’ll find scarves to suit just about everyone—from this funky Flight Pattern Silk Scarf for $28 at Urban Outfitters to this sort of ethereal Ombre Scarf for $10.99 at Charlotte Russe.
A note: Make sure that whatever layers you use, the base piece or pieces are appropriate enough to stand alone should you need to peel away as the temps cruise up to the afternoon high . . .
Katie Holmes: Look for Less
Katie Holmes’ new short ‘do has captured all the media attention lately (and it is pretty darn cute) but we’re still sort of increasingly enamoured with her style—she seems to always hit the right balance of ease and chic. This look caught our attention mostly for the high-waisted wide-leg pant, which takes the jeans-and-t-shirt combo to the next level. We’ve put some budget pieces together so you can look this good running around town, but one note: finding a navy short sleeve cardigan on the cheap turned out to be harder than getting Suri off the bottle, so we’ve substituted classic black. If anyone has a lead on the navy cardigan for less, we’re all ears . . .
High Waist Wide Leg Jeans, $34, Newport News
Women’s Triple Banded Tee, on sale $10, Old Navy
Mossimo Large Satchel, $26.99, Target
Merona Alycia Peep Toe Pumps, $16.09, Target
Pleated Sleeve Cardigan, $39, Ann Taylor LOFT
Katie Holmes image courtesy of People.com
Fashion Advice: Navy as a Summer Neutral
What: Not ready to get back to black? Navy is another great neutral that’s not too heavy for the hottest part of summer . . .
The Lowdown: Black will be hot this fall, but it’s still, well, hot, so summer is by no means over. An alternative neutral? We’re all about the navy—it’s summery (think nautical), classic, and easy to match. No, really—pair it with other neutrals (white, khaki, gray) or muted metallics (which are, of course, the new neutrals), and then pump your look up with some bold colored accessories (think red or yellow, chunky beads or enamel pieces, for maximum impact).
Buy It: Here are some versatile navy pieces we love, on a budget:
Women’s Leather Slingback Jute Wedges, $34.50, Old Navy
Isaac Mizrahi for Target Pleated Wrap Dress, $27.99 on clearance, Target
Wide Leg Pants, $39.99, Chadwicks
Navy Cotton Spandex Blend Cami (Plus Size), on sale for $12, Torrid.com
Eva Longoria Parker: Look for Less
Bridging dressy and casual can go horribly horribly wrong, but this look from Eva Longoria Parker hits just the right note for a summer evening event that’s not too serious, but not a cotton sundress occasion either. Oh, and it’s super sexy without showing a ridiculous amount of skin. Want it? You can have it without that Desperate Housewives salary or a basketball star husband (though either would be nice, right?). Our picks:
Executive Pencil Skirt, $24.80, Forever21.com
Plus size option: Pencil Skirt with Patent Belt (black), $44, Torrid.com
Women’s Lace Trim Cami, $9.99, Old Navy
Women’s Mossimo Vida Peep Toe Pumps, $26.99, Target
SR Squared by Sonda Roberts Straw Clutch, $30, Endless.com
Austrian Crystal Stretch Bracelet, on sale $11.99, JC Penney
image courtesy of OMG.yahoo.com
How to Pack for a Long Weekend
Dear Budget Fashionista,
Could you post a topic on the newsletter about suggestions for a long weekend travel wardrobe? I seem to run into the same problem every time I prepare for vacation—how to pack to look chic, but also be comfortable. I tend to do a lot of walking while on vacation. I want to look chic, which is difficult to do when you are hobbling around because your feet are killing you. Please help—I’m heading to Paris in a few weeks and would like to pack an affordable, fashionable, and comfortable travel wardrobe for once.
Help!
Fashion Traveler
Dear Fashion Traveler,
I’m a frequent traveler as well (especially this summer). Here’s a list of basic things I bring when going on a long weekend trip.
- A pashmina or pashmina like wrap that can fold easily into a tote bag or purse. These wraps are perfect for cold airplanes and cool nights
- A pair of flats. Isaac Mizrahi at Target, Aerosoles, all make comfortable, stylish shoes without breaking the bank.
- A pair of comfy heels from Aerosoles- these are the best walking/heel shoes around and they’re cute. Buy them in black so you’ll be able to wear it again and again
- Rayon blend black pants that don’t wrinkle.
- 2-3 chic t-shirts, in a variety of colors, with a bit spandex Lycra content. These t-shirts are easy to pack and don’t wrinkle.
- A stylish large bag, tote, satchel or hobo that can double as an extra bag for any souvenirs or purchases
- Pair of jeans with a hint of spandex. For some reason, I seem to increase a size whenever I travel, especially cross country
- A Jersey Knit dress that doesn’t wrinkle. Wear with flats during the day—with the pashmina and heels at night
- Umbrella—so VERY important
- A pair of plastic thongs you can get from Old Navy
for 2 for $5. Even if you’re not going to beach, you never know when you might need these
For longer trips (1 week or more), build on the list above. Instead of just one pair of jeans, bring two. Always make sure you have a 2 shirts to every pair of pants ratio. You might always want to throw in a more casual dress as well. The reason why I focus on dresses when traveling is that they’re instant outfits—just add jewelry and shoes and you’re ready to go—and you can dress them up or down.
Fashion Advice: How to Be a Hot Mama, Not a Hootchie Mama
Dear Budget Fashionista,
It seems like department stores target two types of shoppers—Lindsay Lohan wannabes and little old Ladies. How can I, a mom in her late 30’s, continue to look hot without looking like a teen pop star or my grandma?
Help,
Hot Mama
Dear Hot Mama,
Is there a happy medium between a teen that wears many different trends all at once and an unfashionable retiree who might not wear any trends? You betcha.
The key to looking relevant, but not too young, is to always pair a trend with a basic and to only wear one trend at a time. For example, a pair skinny leg jeans with this summer’s tunic, gauchos with a basic tee or fitted blazer, red wide belt with a basic black dress, animal printed tank with a basic black suit. Feel free to try some of this season’s other top trends. For example, wrap dresses continue to reign supreme and is something that is both in fashion and easy to wear. Add a fabulous necklace, a pair of this season’s platform shoes for support, and a pair of Assets by Spanx (at Target Stores) for a dressier look or pair the dress up with a pair of black leggings and ballerina flats. This fall skirts, pair up a knee length pencil skirt from Isaac Mizrahi at Target with a graphic t-shirt from Old Navy and pair of black microsuede knee high boots from Isaac Mizrahi at Target—again mixing a classic piece (wrap dresses, pencil skirts) with trendy pieces (platform shoes and graphic t-shirt).
Once you get the kids in bed, go online and browse to stores like Nordstrom, Coco-Delilahs, Gap, and Smart Bargains for great up to date finds that are grandma-free and affordable. For single hip pieces check out Asos.com, Bluefly.com and Old Navy.com. Last but not least, find a great tailor who can tailor your clothes to give it that finishing touch.
Happy Shopping,
The Budget Fashionista
Old Navy Gets a New Outlook on Style
Fueled by a recent down turn in sales, Old Navy is getting both a new head and a new outlook on style. According to the San Francisco Business Times, the store is planning to go back to its style for less roots.
Now, I’ve shopped at Old Navy since the beginning and I remember it always focused on the basics—head into an Old Navy anywhere in the country and you know you can find a pair of jeans for $29 and perfect fit tees in a bazillion colors, for 2 for $18. That was the beauty of Old Navy.
If anything, I think the stores, at least in the New Jersey/New York/CT area have become way too trendy. I know the store pulls from the same demographics as H&M and Forever 21, but unlike these stores Old Navy also pulls from the same demographics as Talbots and Lane Bryant. No wonder Old Navy has lost many of its customers to Target, a company who gets how to be trendy and basic at the same time.
I don’t want my Old Navy trendy—that’s what I have H&M and F21 for. I appreciate some of the fun additions to their fall collection. However, don’t leave out the basics. I want my Old Navy full of jeans—of all possible designs, cuts, and sizes. I want huge, towering displays of perfect fit t-shirts that are 2 for $15. I want the cheesy ads that help pad the retirement funds of old 80’s tv stars like the late Wheezy Jefferson. Carrie Donovan, the celebrated, black framed glasses wearing fashion editor for Vogue, Bazaar and The New York Times Magazine. Having these icons pitch $29 jeans was as inspired of a fashion commercial as fashion commercials get.
Old Navy execs, keep Old Navy basic—but fun. Even us trend loving people, like a good basic white t-shirt.
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Fashion Advice: Budget Flats
QI have to wear flat shoes for health reasons and I’m also on a budget. I feel like I spend days or weeks looking for fashionable, non-frumpy flat shoes which I can afford. What are some good sources for flat shoes on a budget?
A I’m a big fan of flat shoes and wear them on a daily basis because I do so much walking (New York is such a pedestrian city). Here’s some of my favorite places to score flats for a reasonable price:
Baker Shoes— This mall base store is a great place for trendy flats under $40. Never, ever pay more than $40 for a pair of flats from Bakers because several of their shoes are manufactered by the same folks who make shoes for Payless. Sometimes, you can even find similar styles at the both stores.
Aerosoles—In store, Aerosoles can tend to skew a bit grandma like—but online the store has a wider selection of stylish flats.
Old Navy—Old Navy has a solid selection of ballerina flats in leather and other types of materials for well under $20.00. The shoes won’t last you about 10, maybe 15 wears, and then you’ll have to throw them away. However, from a cost per wear standpoint, the shoes are only $1.50 to $2 per wear. A solid value
Urban Outfitters—Almost always has a few very trendy flats, usually well under $40/ most under $30. Be aware that many of the shoes sold at Urban Outfitters aren’t leather.
Steve Madden—Huge selection of stylish flat shoes in a ton of different colors from patten leather with pilgrim buckles to your basic ballerina flats in cheetah prints. Prices tend range from $29.99 to $89.99. If you see a style you like that tends to fall on the higher end of the price range, wait a week or two—they almost always go on sale.
Barefoot Tess—Great online based store with a HUGE selection of flats from folks like Jeffrey Campbell and Delmans. Most flats are around the $50 to $60 range.
Bluefly.com—Sometimes you can find a deal or two on designer flats from Kate Spade, Delman, Christian Louboutin, etc. Not exactly cheap, but definitely cheaper than retail.
Nine West - Another mall based store with a solid website. I actually think the website is better than the store. Every year, it seems like things get pricier and pricier. However, it’s definitely worth taking a peek at the store.
and Zappos.com, of course.
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Fall 2006 What to Buy: Old Navy
Here’s some of my top picks for early fall from one of my top budget shopping spots Old Navy.
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Fall 2006 Fashion Preview: Gray, Gray, Gray
Gray is this fall’s MUST have color. Whether a heather gray jersey dress like the one above (at Old Navy) or a steel gray cashmere coat, everyone should try to incorporate a bit of gray into their closets. Here’s some tips on how you’ll wear it:
- Pair a gray dress with a pair of bright red, pink, or blue stockings for retro 80s look (try Target’s Xhilaration line of stockings)
- Wear a gray suit with this fall’s hot new shoe, the ankle boot
- Buy or make a chunky knit gray sweater and wear it with a pair of leggings
- Head to the nearest Salvation Army or Goodwill and score a gray “Grandpa” cardigan sweater. Pair it with a chic wide belt (Forever 21, H&M, Target) and wear it over a pencil skirt for the office or a pair of jeans for a more casual look
Fall 2006 Fashion Preview: Black Leggings
There were three things you HAD to have in your closet in order to be cool in the 80’s: a pair of acid wash jeans, an off the shoulder sweat shirt, and a closet full of leggings. Fortunately, the fashion gods spared us the return of acid wash jeans and let the more fashion friendly black leggings return. Black leggings are not only incredibly comfortable, but offer a great covering options for those days when you don’t have the energy to shave your legs or apply the self tanner (only you, and the leggings, know what’s underneath). Plus everyone from Old Navy to Hanes Her Way to Lane Bryant
are featuring the leggings for well under $20 dollars, making them an affordable fashion option.
Here’s How to Wear Black Leggings:
- Layer underneath a jersey dress for a hipster look
- Pair them with last year’s tunics and a wide belt for an updated look
- Wear underneath a short skirt to provide additional coverage
- If all else fails, wear them to the gym
Children’s Clothing on a Budget
I never knew how hard it was to find affordable, age appropriate clothing for children until I became an aunt. It’s next to impossible to find a cute dress for a girl for under $50. Is it too much to ask to pay less for a boys suit than I pay for a suit for my husband? After 9 years as an aunt and now that I’m starting a family of my own, I’m a woman on a mission to find adorable children’s fashions without going into bankruptcy.
Here’s what I’ve found so far. . .
Dressing girls
Most of us struggle to find clothing for girls that don’t make your favorite five-year-old look like a midget Paris Hilton. Of course there’s the usual suspects— Old NavyChildren’s Place, and GapKids. These stores offer fun, but age appropriate items for your bidding fashionista at reasonable prices. But my favorite store for girls is H&M. H&M has some of cutest clothing for girls at even cheaper prices than the GapKids
. Another favorite is Target. The best store to bargain shop for girls is at Target. The options are limitless and the clothes are well constructed with most items in the $10-$17 range. Plus shopping at target is very acceptable (unlike K-MART), so you can save money without worry about the “cool” factor. When shopping these stores remember this tip: always buy items like pants and jackets one size up, so that it can last into the beginning of the following year.
Dressing boys
It seems like the designers of boys clothing are hell-bent on making them look like little action heroes. Bargain shopping for these tykes is an art form that few know how to do. Target has great stuff for little guys, with Children’s Place giving the most for your bucks. However, SEARS is also a great place to find cute little items from designers like Sean John and Levi, for very reasonable prices. Although Old Navy is great place for basics like Cargo pants, the really cool stuff is at GapKids
. Bright colored lumberjack jackets and knit caps will keep your little guy looking stylish. Another good place is Marshall’s and T.J. Maxx. Usually both these stores have nice suits from designers like Polo Ralph Lauren for such a bargain that you could also pick them up a a pair of dress shoes to complete the outfit.
Dressy outfits
When you want to spend a little more on either a good suit or party dress, head to the outlets of the big expensive department stores, like Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Nordstrom. The outlets of these stores all have children departments, with designers like Betsey Johnson and Ralph Lauren for kids. Nordstrom has an amazing selection of shoes for little ones as well.
Avoid department stores that tend to price children’s clothing at the same price point as adults. There is no justification for a 4T Ralph Lauren Skirt to cost that same as an adult skirt. However, if you’re a department store shopper try stores like Macys, which offer great deals on children’s clothing during their major sale events, and SEARS, where the clothes are guaranteed to last thru at least one kickball season.
Saving grace - The internet
The Internet has revolutionized shopping for children. Long gone are the days of having to meander through stores with a screaming three-year-old. Put the kids to bed, grab a cup of chamomile tea and start to shop. Check out these great online stores:
GapKids- A wide selection of causal and dress clothes for girls and boys. Great clearance section.
Zappos.com- Great selection of shoes from designers like Bibi and Kenneth Cole.
Target.com - Cheap and Cool. A great combo.
Overstock.com - A wide selection and rock bottom prices. Great for coats.
Babystyle- Adorable clothing for babies and toddlers. Make sure to search Google for coupon codes before shopping at the store.
Fashion Advice: Slimming Down a Bigger Bottom
Dear Budget Fashionista:
I am a size 14 and very self conscious of the way I look (because of the size of my hips) and I feel I need to wear long tops or jumpers to cover up. What kind of tops should I wear with long skirts?
A: There’s a tendency for us to think that MuuMuus will some how hide our figure issues, when in reality big oversize shirts add bulk to your frame. Most people don’t realize that tailored tops and blazers actually make you look slimmer by defining your curves.
Try these tips to slim down your lower half:
- wear a darker color on your bottom half (black, blue, etc.) and a light color like cream, gray, and white on top. This will draw attention away from your bottom half.
- look for tops blazers that hit you at the bottom of your backside—this tends to be the smallest part of your hip area.
- If your thighs are larger than your hips, then look for longer, duster type jackets.
- Avoid slim fitting pants and opt for pants that fall straight from the waist or bootcut pants to balance your hips.
The tops you wear with a longer skirt depends on the shape of the skirt. If the skirt is A line, you might want to wear a nice cardigan set. If the skirt is straight, you might want to wear a nice white dress shirt (tucked in) from a store like the Gap or Old Navy. Pair the skirt with a nice pair of heeled boots (to give the skirt a bit of flare) and great accessories like a beaded necklace. All shirts should be fitted and shapely.
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