The Deal: $15 jeans at Wet Seal
The Lowdown: Really really want a cute pair of jeans for those weekend outings, but just can’t justify spending a bunch of cash (you don’t have) right now? Wet Seal has you covered, with a handful of cute denim styles for just $15 apiece (including both skinny and flared styles). The Jetsetter flare jean pictured is a good choice for all around wear, and for something a little edgier? Maybe these ankle-zip skinny jeans (regularly $29.50). Both styles are available in sizes up to 15.
Shop: Wet Seal
Wet Seal—can’t we do something about that name? Okay, at least it tells us one thing—we don’t need to take the fashion we find here too seriously. It’s trendy, yes, but that’s the fun of it—pick up trend-of-the-minute pieces (this season, that means sweater dresses, shiny tops, and plaid and houndstooth) on the cheap, meaning a guilt-free fashion indulgence. Our picks for this fall:
Plaid Mary Jane Low Heel, $22.50
3/4 Sleeve Pencil Dress, $25.50
Houndstooth Pencil Skirt, $24.50
Distressed Bomber Jacket, $39.50
Though traditional plaid has been heralded as the pattern for fall, we’re seeing more and more houndstooth and quite frankly, we’re feeling more warm and fuzzy about that trend—there’s something both modern and classic about it, which is an ideal combination for those of us over, say, 21 who would like to participate. Our advice? Pick one piece and keep the rest of the outfit clean and neutral—houndstooth is bold enough to be the sole focal point. Also, if you’re petite, a houndstooth dress might be more than you can pull off—consider a pencil skirt, or a houndstooth accessory, like a handbag or scarf, to keep from being overwhelmed.
Love it? Our picks for getting on the houndstooth bandwagon, for less:
Digital Houndstooth Chiffon Top, $17.80, Forever 21 (we like this choice if you’re looking for a very unstuffy, modern take on houndstooth . . . pair it with a black pencil skirt and pumps)
Houndstooth Belted Dress, $25.50, Wet Seal (you don’t need to add much when wearing this much houndstooth—black flats and a black bag might just be enough—and maybe a fat colored bangle or two to mix it up)
Cropped Houndstooth Jacket, $49, Newport News (this is a great option if you want a versatile piece to pump up your basics—wear with a jewel-toned top and black trousers)
Capsleeve Houndstooth Top, $39, Banana Republic (super cute and super modern with trousers, a skirt, or even denim)
Houndstooth Cadet Hat and Wrap, $9.99, Payless (this is a great deal for two houndstooth pieces—but we’re thinking wearing them separately will give you the most bang for your buck).
Alice+Olivia for Payless Morton Mary Jane Wedge, $38, Payless (these probably won’t hold up style-wise through more than a season or two, but they’d be totally fun to wear in the meantime)
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 . . .
The Deal: Now through Aug. 17, get 2 for $20 swim separates at Wet Seal
The Lowdown: While swim season may be very close to over, it’s hard to beat 2 for $20 on swimwear separates. You may just want to give those last few visits to the beach or pool a little extra kick with a new suit, or buy one to tuck away to save you the trouble next spring. Either way, there are deals to be had, like this metallic triangle bikini top with matching bottom, or a cute and sassy pink plaid bandeau top and matching bottom; all are 2 for $20.
Shop the Sale: Wet Seal
Open up any fashion magazine and you’re bound to see at least one editorial/ad featuring an Interlocking Circle Necklace. Worn long and in a variety of colors, these necklaces are a major departure from the large, multi-layer, bubble bead look of last summer. You can find the necklaces at most major department and discount stores (Bloomies, Macy’s, Lord&Taylor, Target). I bought a black, plastic interlocking necklace this past weekend from Forever 21 for $4.90 and another white circle interlocking necklace with a gold chain woven throughout the necklace, for $12.95 at Ashley Stewart. I would also suggest looking at your local Charlotte Russe, Wet Seal, and Rampage stores.
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