Spring Fashion 2009
Great Tips for Spring Closet Cleaning
Make sure you and your closet look your best, by culling out the old stuff, preserving your delicate clothing, and generally keeping your closet clean with these spring cleaning tips
Don’t let your wardrobe become bloated in the first place: keep your closet recession-proof by saving money where you can. The Budget Fashionista shared tips on Oprah, and of course, we want to share them with you!
Throw out that which you don’t need. For example, know when the expiration dates for common household items are: its time to let go of that old foundation, mascara, and even unopened nail polish.
Clean the things that you keep, in a manner that preserves their lifespans. For example, learn how to wash a cashmere sweater, substitute dry-cleaning for mere dollars-per-use, and stay eco-friendly with the chemical cleaning products you bring into your home.
And, for the ultimate guide on closet cleaning, we looked to Jerry Pozniak, of Cameo Cleaners. Prevent mold, moths, stains, misshaping clothing, and un-healthy storage.
The Asymmetrical Dress: Spring Fashion Trend
What: Asymmetry returns as a the dress silhouette for spring . . .
What We Say: Like most of the trends for spring, this one is really nothing new—asymmetrical/one shoulder dresses have been hovering at the edge of the fashion radar for awhile now, but when Michelle Obama selected the style for her inauguration ball gown, she pretty much guaranteed the trend a place in the spring fashion statement rotation. While we’re not sure this look is for everyone (Mrs. O, after all, has some pretty fab shoulders, as the style requires) we think if you have the physique, it’s totally worth slipping in to. That being said, we wouldn’t spend too much, because the asymmetrical look is such a specific seasonal trend that it’s not likely to live a whole lot longer. Fortunately, finding budget-friendly options—both casual and dressy—isn’t too hard. Accessorizing is easy too—skip the necklace and go with a bold bracelet and sexy heels or sandals, and go.
Get it: Baby Rib One-Shoulder Dress, $42, American Apparel
Black One Shoulder Zig Zag Dresses , $98, at eDressMe
Mossimo Black One Shoulder Occasion Dress, on sale $32.99, at Target
COLORBLOCK ONE-SHOULDER DRESS, $19.99, at Alloy.com
The Ruffle Pump: Spring Fashion Trend
“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
What: Feminine ruffles soften the edges of the classic pump this spring . . .
What We Say: As much as we stand by the classic pump, a little fun update never hurts—and this spring, the embellishment du jour is the ruffle. The downside? Next season it will NOT be the ruffle, meaning we’ll indulge but won’t spend more than we have to (we’d suggest spending no more than $30 on a pair). The great thing about an embellished shoe, from our budget fashion standpoint, is that it takes the pressure off the rest of your wardrobe—slip into your basics (a great solid blouse and neutral pencil skirt), and let the ruffled shoe take center stage. You’ll look hip and on trend without working too hard. And speaking of working too hard, remember that ruffles are the kind of embellishment best taken in small doses—unless you’re 6 and it’s Easter Sunday, resist the temptation to pair the pumps with a ruffled blouse, sweater, skirt. But you knew that.
Get It:
American Eagle Patent Krystal Ruffle Pump, $27.99, Payless
Patent Ruffle Pumps, $11.49 on sale, Charlotte Russe
10 Spring Time Dresses, Bright Colors in Office Wear, Old Navy, Wendy Brandes Jewels
What made Fashion Me Fabulous gasp with excitement? 10 very fabulous Spring time dresses.
Need help balancing neutrals with funky colors? Omiru knows exactly how to work in bright colors into any office wear.
Nitro:licious previews the Spring 2009 Old Navy Collection - are you convinced its spring yet, by the bold, bright colors, beach essentials and sun dresses?
The Daily Obsession picks out some whimsical and gorgeous precious metal jewelry by Wendy Brandes, just in time for Spring.
Python: Spring 09 Accessories Trend
For every season, it seems, there is an animal print—and this spring, python is it. After a couple of seasons of giraffe and zebra (which we liked fine, but what are we, zoo animals?), we’re feeling this one—snakeskin is, after all, sexy and sleek and after a long winter of feeling schlubby, that’s just what we need.
Our favorite part? It’s the go-to print in accessories, meaning we can pick up a belt, pump or handbag (so much cheaper than a new dress) and update a whole range of pieces we already have, for less. A note: Angela picked up the Mossimo pumps shown here, and can vouch for the fab online reviews they’ve gotten, having worn them through a full day of work and happy hour. Super chic and comfortable.
1. Mossimo Vanecia D’Orsay Pumps, $29.99, Target
Arlenis Sosa’s Time Style Cover, Go Frugal Blog, Chanel’s Sun Colors, Cute Spring Jackets Under $60
Check out the new blog of FreeShipping.org, an informative new hot spot for tips on how to Go Frugal. Sounds like they’re speaking our language… in fact, we’re featured in their round up of the best money-saving blogs around the ‘net in their new Blog Carnival!
The newly launched Lancome Blog is gushing with pride about this month’s Time Style & Design - their very own spokesmodel Arlenis Sosa is on the cover!
Chanel rolls out a “harmonious blend of orange, peach and tan colors” for its Summer 2009 makeup collection. Butterfly Diary peeks at the sun-kissed colors of the bronzer, eyeshadow, sparkling new nail lacquer, and more.
College Fashion may be written for college students, but anyone can appreciate their pick of 10 cute spring jackets under $60.
Flutter Sleeve Tops: Spring 09 Fashion Trend
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
Okay, we’re not even going to try to hold back here—we love, love, love a flutter sleeve blouse. Love. Arms, after all, are a sensitive area for a lot of women and when we have to break out the short sleeves there’s really no option that’s more flattering to most arm types than the flutter. It’s also unarguably feminine without being so cute that you can’t wear it if you’re over the age of, say, 12.
In this economy, any pieces we add this spring will have to be versatile, and the flutter sleeve blouse fits that bill too, found on pieces ranging from casual to dressy, and can be worn with everything from dress pants and skirts to jeans to shorts. There are so many options out there, we had a hard time narrowing it down, but here are four tops we’d put at the top of our wish list (note: Express had about a kajillion, so it might behoove you to just peruse their site for a style that suits you).
Flutter Sleeve Tee, $24.50, Express
ING Plus Size Flutter Sleeve Top, on sale $32, Macy’s
Wilda Silky Top, $17.80, Forever21
Flutter Sleeve Blouse, $39.50, Express
Stripes: Spring 09 Fashion Trend
“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
Wayyy back in September, we wrote about the prevalence of stripes on the runway for Spring. Of course stripes are nothing new (they popped up everywhere last summer, too) but the most modern takes include black and bold colors, and/or skinny stripes, on everything from tops to dresses to accessories.
Body conscious is the silhouette for spring, and for some of us “stripes” and “body conscious” are two elements that are diametrically opposed (read: make us want to run for the hills), but there are options that are both on trend AND flattering - like the Forever21 dress here, which gives us cute stripes in a small dose on top while keeping the bottom half solid and forgiving, and the Bebe Scoop Neck Tee, which makes us think of Michael Kors bold black stripes on the runway—pair it with a bright solid-colored full skirt and some black gladiators to look well-proportioned and chic.
Charlotte Ronson showed plenty of dainty, soft-hued skinny striped and with her new line at JC Penney, you can indulge in the edgier designer take without breaking the bank. Just can’t splash stripes across your body? Pick up a striped, colored belt as a spring update, and forget the rest.
Solid and Striped Knit Dress, $22.80, Forever21
Wide Stripe Scoop Neck Tee, $34, Bebe
I Heart Ronson Stripe Dress, $24.99 on sale, JC Penney
Striped Metallic Belt, $10.99, Charlotte Russe
The Bib Necklace: Spring 09 Accessory Trend
“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
Hate the name (do grown women really want to wear a bib?), love the accessory. Why? Because with something as bold as a “bib” necklace, you really don’t need much else to be eye-catching. Can you do it on the cheap? Would we bother writing about it if you couldn’t? Of couse not. We’ve rounded up a few budget pieces that are as fab as anything we’ve seen on the runway, for pennies on the dollar (or less) . . .
One caveat—whatever you do, be sure the neckline of your top is simple, simple, simple, and cut to frame the necklace or lay unobtrusively flat underneath—anything else will look sloppy and detract from what could be your signature piece for the season.
1. Stone Drape Necklace, $12.80, Forever 21
2. Chain Maille Necklace, $8.80, Forever21
3. Colorful Bib Necklace, $34, Urban Outfitters
4. Wrap Link Bib Necklace, $19.99, Target.
The Jumpsuit: Spring 09 Fashion Trend
“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
If you are of a certain age, jumpsuits will make you think of Donna Summer, Charlie’s Angels, and/or skating to “Rock With You” at the roller rink. However, it seems if it’s spring of 2009 (and it is) jumpsuits are one of at least the top 10 trends. Maybe top 5. Of course, last year they tried to bring back the romper. Did you buy one? We didn’t, and quite frankly, we don’t regret it.
Still, the more we see it, the more we’re thinking that if you are fashion-confident enough to pull it off, the modern jumpsuit could be quite chic. The key? Rich fabric and subtle, neutral hues (forget the velour, Juicy-wanna-be, hot pink versions), and modern accessories to assure that your look stays well out of the throwback/retro 70s territory - bib necklaces and gladiator sandals are at the top of our list.
1. Control Jumpsuit, $49, Newport News
2. Necklace Halter Jumpsuit, $29.50, Wet Seal
Save An Extra 15% on Dresses at Bluefly
“THIS DEAL HAS ENDED”
The Deal: Today Only: Save an extra 15% off dresses at bluefly.com
The Lowdown:Bluefly.com is NOT the cheapest site out there, but for those fashionistas looking to score a true designer piece for a somewhat reasonable price, there is no better site.
For today only, receive an extra 15% off already reduced prices on dresses from the likes of Nicole Miller, Badgley Mischka, and Diane Von Furstenberg. We especially like this dress from Rebecca Taylor, on sale for $189.55, down from $372.00 and this sexy, deep v neck number from Curtsey, now $66.30 from $130.00. If you have a little extra money left over from your tax returns and you put at least 50% away and/or pay off some bills, treat yourself to something like this Badgley Mischka cappucino pleated organza strapless dress
, originally $650, now $331.50 or this amazing silk beaded halter dress from Nicole Miller, for $270.30.
Shop: Bluefly.com
H&M Spring 2009 Look Book, Anti Jeans, Ultimate Packing List for Spring, J.Crew Low Prices
Neutral soft colors, lots of taupe and still edgy; check out an enthusiastic first look at H&M’s Spring 2009 Look Book by In A Word… Fab.
Jezebel picks up on an anti-denim sentiment that’s actually rejoicing in the national economic downturn. But who’s going to let go of the most durable piece of clothing in their wardrobe at this time?
Just in time for spring break! Check out the ultimate packing check-list by Viva Fashion Blog. (Have fun in Puerto Rico next week, Viva!)
Teen Fashionista gives us great news: J.Crew’s planning to expand its lower-priced merchandise and Madewell chain.
Win This: JC Penney and The Budget Fashionista Celebrate Spring Contest Day Four
To celebrate our new look and JCPenney’s new spring designer looks, we will giveaway one (1) outfit everyday from now until Friday, February 20, 2009.
At midnight on 2/19, one lucky winner will win the outfit shown to the right:
The Prize: Multi-colored top and pants set from the Nicole by Nicole Miller line at JC Penney.
Why you want this: We like how the top has the Nicole Miller signature print, without the Nicole Miller signature price. Plus you can always use an extra pair of black pants.
To Enter this Contest, Tell Us Your Top Summer Beauty Tip in the comment section below
The Rules
- no purchase necessary
- contest ends on the day of the posting at 11:59pm
- must comment below in order to enter this contest
- must be a US citizen.
- recipient is responsible for any federal, state or local taxes associated with the prize package
- must respond within 72 hours (3 days) or prize will be given to another entrant
Dana Buchman at Kohls Line Review
What: Dana Buchman’s new line for Kohls is available online and Kathryn isn’t impressed.
What I Say: I had high hopes for this line and thought it would be a great mass market line for women of a “certain age”. Some of the pieces (like this Dolman sleeved sweater and these gold wedge sandals) are fairly stylish and brings up memories of the old Dana Buchman bridge line at department stores, but for the most part the line is a bit disappointing (and so is the site design, you can’t read the text description of the product). For example, salmon is the type of color that looks cheap when paired with lower quality fabrics and this line has seven or so pieces in this color. And while I can appreciate how easy black is to wear, the line depends on the color a little too much. Also, I’m a bit suprised by the lack of a Dana Buchman at Kohls plus size line, as the plus size line sold very well in department stores.
Dana Buchman at Kohls: My Top Picks
- Dana Buchman Stripped Dolan Sleeve Sweater, on sale for $49.00
- Dana Buchman Grommet Tunic, on sale for $41.99
- Dana Buchman Animal Aviators, on sale for $21.60
Sonia Rykiel at Asos: Really Cute and Really Expensive
What: Favorite french designer Sonia Rykiel recently partnered with the international celebrity look for less site, Asos.com, on a “budget” friendly line, featuring tons of very cute dresses with the signature Rykiel stripes.
From the blog Share My Fashion Addictions:
As soon as I saw Asos home page stating “Sonia Rykiels chic parisian style” I knew I had to take a peek. Images of Carrie Bradshaw in Paris somehow sprung to mind. And I’m glad they did. I’m never one to fall in love with an entire line of clothing so this was an exception.
More Dresses:
What We Say: The line is adorable.. but.. $500 bucks for a dress is not budget. In fact, you can find Sonia Rykiel main label pieces at outlets like Last Call Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue
outlet for much less than $500, so why pay $500 for the bridge line. My advice? Wait until TopShop opens in New York this spring.
UNIQLO Spring/Summer 2009: Catwalk-worthy Cheap Fashion
UNIQLO, a funky Japan-based fashion company with stores in the US (mostly in the New York Metro area), is one of our favorite stores for updated basics. Picture practical and affordable high-end fashion and sporty outfits with a stylish twist- sort of like Old Navy, but better. So, word of its upcoming 2009 spring and summer lineup has us excited.
The lineup’s designers include lots of people you’ve probably never heard of, but they’re worth checking out: Shipley & Halmos, Gilded Age, Opening Ceremony, and Steven Alan. Shipley & Halmos and Alan are leading the charge for women apparel. Alan’s collection of bright-colored jumpers, tunics, and dresses will debut in March, while Shipley & Halmos’ summertime separates (as well as another jumper) will come out in May. What we like best? The price range is from $19-$79: which is pretty all we can spend right now.
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