Shopping on a Budget

Hello again! It’s Alexis with your latest FASHION CENTS.

One complaint I often receive from people who want to get good deals is that they aren’t willing to wear old clothes worn by strangers. The thought of someone else once wearing those clothes somehow grosses them out, and while for some, that’s a reasonable excuse not to thrift shop, I personally think it adds character to the clothes. On a similar note, today I’m going to enlighten you all on some stores where you can shop for brand new clothes that are still VERY affordable. My effort is to appease those of you who want to dress both affordably and fashionably, but aren’t willing to wear used clothing. Here are some of my favorite affordable retail stores:

 1. CottonOn

When I first started college, I naturally visited the nearest mall soon after. On that first mall trip is when I discovered CottonOn. While I was there, I purchased two dresses for $5 a piece and was blown away by their prices and style! At the time, they didn’t have an online American store, but I quickly signed up for their mailing list so I would be the first to know when they did.

Fortunately enough, they launched their online shopping about a year ago, and their online selection and prices are even better. All of their clothes are super versatile and comfortable because they are made with cotton. To shop online visit CottonOn.com and make sure to check out their sections called “Nothing Over $5” and “Nothing Over $10”.

2. MadRag

I discovered this store while I was on vacation. We had extended our stay for a few extra days and I hadn’t packed enough clothes to last the trip, so I walked into MadRag with $25 and walked out with two pairs of shorts and three shirts. Unfortunately this store doesn’t offer online shopping, but if you visit their site, you can find a location near you. http://10spotplus.com/storelocator.aspx

3. TJ Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls

These are three stores I thoroughly adore. Their collection of clothing is very wide, with selections for everyone in the family.  They each sell name brand clothing at discounted prices. Brands like American Eagle, Coach, Nike, Calvin Klein, and more can be spotted on their racks. I’ve bought everything from Prom dresses, to church dresses, to work out clothes, and even to cute casual shoes.

A great tip that saves me tons of money is that I go straight to the sales racks before even sifting through any other sections of these stores.

Ross  |  TJMaxx  |  Marshalls

4. Wal-Mart

Wal-Mart Juniors Link 

Many people overlook Wal-Mart as a place for fashion, but every year for Christmas and my birthday my grandpa would give me a $25 gift card and I grew to love it more and more each time. Recently, camo skinny pants were on my fashion must-have list. Most places would sell them for at least $30, but I found them at Wal-Mart for $16.88. Here’s some ideas of things you can get at Wal-Mart.

  Floral Peplum Top

Check out the concept of this bargain! You can mix and match fashionable tops with bottoms to get an affordable and adorable bundle deal!

Mix-n-Match Denim Shirt and Colored Pants Bundle Deal

Now you know to never underestimate a store’s potential to carry cute clothes!  Just think about the next time someone compliments your clothes and asks where you got it, and you can confidently say Wal-Mart or CottonOn or any of the other stores many people overlook. You’ll know you scored a great deal.

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Thank you all for tuning in to read yet another blog about affordable fashion. Remember to comment on this post with your thoughts or ideas on this article or suggestions on future articles.

Get the Celebrity Look For Less

Hey Girls! I know that finding the perfect fall look can be pretty difficult, especially when you’re not sure where to look to find affordable and appropriate fashion choices, but have no fear, Alexis is here. Today included in my Fashion Cents blog is a feature called The Look For Less, where I present celebrity-inspired looks for much cheaper prices.

I’ve found three very versatile looks that would look great on most body types that are really in style this season.

1. Demi Lovato’s comfy-casual look

Boots  |   Leggings  |  Sweater  |  Fedora

One thing that I’m certain about is that maroon/burgundy pants and leggings are so in style this season. A great pair of leggings is always closet staple. What’s super convenient about this outfit is that all of the items are solids, so they can be paired with a variety of other outfit options. Demi’s oversized black sweater completes the look because it adds warmth, edge, and comfort all in one.

2. Taylor Swift’s Sailor Look

Striped Shirt  |   Red Skinny Jeans  |  Leather Cross Body Bag  |  Headband  |  Yellow Ballet Flats

Sailor stripes are climbing their way back up on the style spectrum. A ¾ sleeve striped shirt is the most popular variation of this trend, but really you can never go wrong with simple sailor stripes to complete a look. They look best when paired with the primary colors (yellow, red, or blue), just like Taylor’s outfit.

3. Zooey Deschanel’s Western-Chic Look

Lace Dress  |  Cowgirl Boots  |  Belt  |  Leggings

If lace were a color, it would be my favorite color. Lace is something that every lady should have in her closet. Zooey pulls off this western look really well by pairing a lace dress with cowgirl boots. Cowgirl boots are definitely trendy and come in all sorts of styles to accommodate the fashionista’s personal preferences.

 Don’t be afraid to look up outfits on Pinterest from fashionable celebrities like Kari Jobe, Candace Cameron Bure, or other celebrities I included in this post. Then, search piece-by-piece for items like theirs. One feature I really love on Google is the ‘shopping’ section, where it pulls results from all kinds of online stores and I can compare prices.

So there you have it! Three great fall looks, whether you’re feeling comfy, like a sailor, or a little bit of country twang. If there’s a look you want to rock, but need help finding affordable and appropriate items, feel free to comment below so I can feature it in my next article on The Look for Less.

The Modern Manicure

I remember when french manicures were "the thing" to do. Picking out polish at the nail salon was simple... pink and white! Fast forward to the present and we have a gazillion nail colors to choose from. The color of your nails have become as important as the color of shoes you wear! With nail art in the spotlight, the traditional pink and white manicure is taking a back row seat and creative color combinations are stealing the show. I decided to ditch my comfort zone and take a risk with the "modern manicure." I chose this gold and black combination. Surprisingly, I really like it! It has to be paired with the right outfit for it to work. But, it is a look that I would actually wear on occasion.

To achieve this look I used Essie's Good As Gold and OPI's Black Onyx. I love both of these nail polishes combined and on their own. All you need to do is apply 1-2  coats of gold and then apply the black polish to the tips.

So there you go, the "modern manicure!" I am looking forward to trying a few different color combinations. I think the next look will be a sheer, milky white nail with gold tips. What would you suggest?! Let me know what you have tried or what you would recommend for colors in the comments below. I look forward to hearing from you!

Happy Styling, Rebekah

Ways to Wear: The Infinity Scarf

The infinity scarf is noted for its never-ending versatility and rightfully so. Infinity scarves can be worn casually or styled to dress up a look. Below are a few ways to wear the original cotton infinity scarf.

Most infinity scarves can be worn full length or open, as shown above. This option is perfect for a casual look. If the scarf is a bit lengthy when draped once, double it up as shown below. You want to be careful the scarf does not fall too far past your waist.

            

Left: When doubling over an infinity scarf, your preference will ultimately decide the look. You can pull the scarf tight to taper the scarf (as pictured) or pull the ends of the scarf together, which will even out the scarf to the same length. By doing this, the scarf will appear fuller and there will be no worries with the length getting in the way.

Middle: The knot is always a fun change from the typical layering and doubling. You can achieve 'the knot' by creating a standard knot on one end. Once you put it on you can adjust both the size and placement of the knot.

Far right: For a quirky twist with an infinity scarf, make an incomplete knot and "fluff" the scarf to give the appearance of a tie. For example, begin with a standard knot but do NOT pull it all the way through. Instead, create a tail with the scarf; you can pull it out for a fuller look (as pictured), or tuck in the fabric for a 'skinny' tie.

Dots* | Stripes (featured) | Prints* | Solids*

*Links are suggestions

Photo Credit: Casey Taylor

How To Wear Dark Lipstick

One of Fall's hottest trends right now is dark lipstick. It is an ultra edgy look that if done right can look really beautiful. Today, I am going to share some tips on how to wear this look. Step 1: Exfoliate your lips. Dark lipstick enhances dry or cracked lips so you want to start off with a smooth surface.

Step 2: Apply chapstick. Let it sit for a few minutes, you don’t want to apply the lipstick to a fresh coat of chapstick because the color will run. During this time you could apply your face makeup. Remember to keep the eye makeup minimal. You want the lips to be the main attraction.

Step 3: Line and fill in your lips. Lipliner helps to keep your lipstick from bleeding. If the lipstick does bleed you can take a lip brush and apply some concealer around the lips.

Step 4:  Apply lipstick. You can either use a lip brush or apply directly from the tube.

If you want to gradually work your way up to wearing a bold, dark lip, you can apply your lipstick as a stain. You can easily achieve this look by applying your lipstick with your fingers.

Will YOU go bold with dark lips this Fall? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

* The lipstick pictured above is Revlon's Black Cherry.

Create an Eclectic Style from Your Own Closet

Ever wonder how some girls just have a knack for pulling together an outfit with pieces you would never normally pair together, but somehow the whole look just works?! Well, it isn't too difficult to accomplish this look because there is no one way to do it!

The eclectic style is all about creating an unusual look with mixing styles; therefore don't feel boxed in.

To accomplish this look:

• Mix prints, patterns, and fabrics

• Play with complimenting and contrasting colors

• Try putting together shades of the same color

• Pair fancy pieces with basic items, such as sneakers with a nice dress or a t-shirt with a frilly skirt

• With accessories, mix metals and size

• Having the right bag and shoes will pull it all together and give an intentional finish to your look!

The eclectic look can at times appear to violate some fashion faux pas.  But there is no harm in trying to upcycle old items with newer ones in a unique way. And if done tastefully, it can create interest into your personal style.

Morgan seems to do it right with creativity, personality, and class every time!

Flower Beauty Review

I was thrilled when I heard Drew Barrymore was teaming up with Walmart to launch a new cosmetics line. I love the mission of Flower  which is to provide quality products that you would find in a high end store but, at a fraction of the price. A couple other perks are that all of the  products are made in the USA and they are never tested on animals. The entire line of Flower cosmetics is lovely. Everything from the advertisements to the white and rose gold packaging is beautifully done. I was equally impressed by the color line. The lipsticks, blushes, nail polishes, eyeshadows and liners have colors that are fresh and modern. There were so many products that I wanted to try, it was hard to choose. I decided to start off with four products. I chose two lipsticks and two nail polishes.

I fell in love with the promo poster of Drew Barrymore wearing the high shine lipstick in the color "Rosebud." It looked like a great Fall lipstick color so I decided to purchase it. Rosebud is a bold red lipstick that is rich and creamy with excellent color pay off. I would definitely recommend this color to add to your Fall lipstick collection.

The next lipstick that I purchased was So Gladiola. I have a weakness for coral lipstick so snagging this color was a no brainer for me.

So Gladiola is a matte coral lipstick. The color is fresh and modern and I love it for an everyday lipstick. The formula is a little drying since it is a matte lipstick. I suggest exfloliating and wearing a lip conditioner underneath it. Overall it is a really nice coral lipstick.

I had been wanting to build up my fall nail polish collection so I ended up purchasing Venus Fly Trap and April Showers.

I had been looking for the perfect burgundy nail polish and Venus Fly Trap is definitely a winner. I love the color. It needs at least two coats to achieve the color in the picture above.

April Showers is another excellent dark polish for Fall. In the store the color looked like a dark green color, but once I put the polish on it really is dark blue. In some lighting it actually looks black. Overall, I really like the color and will definitely be wearing it on a regular basis.

I am looking forward to trying out more of the Flower cosmetics line. Some of the products I am interested in trying are the cream eyeshadows, cream blushes, and eyeliners. I spotted some fun colors that I think would be great to incorporate into my daily beauty routine. To see more from Flower Cosmetics, you can find it here. Let me know what you think!

 Happy Styling!

Rebekah

Photography: Reagan Miura

Teen Style that Began in a Courtroom

Written By Danielle Hart I have a really classic, professional style. I prefer structured, timeless pieces, such as blazers and pencil skirts, because they help define the waistline and in my opinion are très chic. I’d rather have a few versatile pieces (like a blazer or a cardigan) that can be paired with lots of tops and bottoms and will virtually never go out of style, than anything else. (Except shoes... I have a weakness for shoes of every shape, color, and kind!).

It wasn’t until about four years ago that I actually found this style and it began in a courtroom.

I’m involved in a program called Teen Court, which takes first-time juvenile offenders and tries them in a real courtroom, but the jury and attorneys are comprised of volunteer teenagers. One of my friends told me about it the summer before my freshmen year, so I went to observe, just to see if I would like it or not. I fell in love with it immediately and I have volunteered ever since (which is going on four years now). We usually have court every other week, but it varies sometimes and I often go up on non-court days, just to help out. The staff and volunteers truly care about the defendants that come through, and want to help them get their lives back on track. Teen Court has an extremely low recidivism rate (a fancy term for how many of the defendants get in trouble with the law again.) Teens will often listen to their peers more than they listen to adults, which is one of the reasons that it’s such a great program. The volunteer teens actually interview, try, and sentence the defendants, and they must comply with everything that we give them.

Teen Court helped me develop my style through their dress code. Which is just typical courtroom attire, such as no sandals, no shorts, no tank tops, etc. However, I’m an attorney (even though it's volunteer) so I wanted to look more professional.  I should say, they don’t force volunteers to wear dress clothes. So it began; I started wearing trousers and blazers and pencil skirts to court.  When I did, I knew I had found the perfect style for me, both in and outside the courtroom.

As an attorney, I either have to prosecute or defend (though they have to plead guilty before they come, so we just argue the appropriate sentencing), but either way I represent someone. If I’m prosecuting, I represent the State of Florida. If I defend, I represent the teenager on trial, my client. But no matter who I represent in the courtroom, I always represent God.  The whole concept of representing someone in the courtroom with my best crosses over in my personal walk with God.  I believe my personal style should honor God and not distract from my representation of Him to others, no matter where I am or what I’m doing.

I want to encourage other girls my age to find their own personal style. A lot of people don’t dress like I do, which is fine with me! Dressing in one's own unique style while considering our representation of God is a great guide to stay on the right track with what clothes to wear.

Fashion and a Funeral

Summer left as fast as it came in. Nonetheless, it’s been such a blast with the most anticipated event of my summer being,  my trip to Nigeria. For those of you who don’t know much about me, I was born in Finland. However, my parents are originally from Nigeria, located in West Africa. To start with, my trip came unexpectedly. It was due to my grandmother’s sudden passing. The news was joyful yet painful when it came. Joyful for the fact that she had lived a long life, with the privilege of seeing many generations of descendants. But I will no longer be able to spend time with my last living grandparent as was my plan for the coming fall.

Growing up in Finland, I had been raised to adapt to Finnish culture and yet feeling odd -calling myself Finnish. Maybe some of you reading this post understand what I mean when I speak about this subject. I don’t feel Finnish nor do I look like the typical/average Finn. Nigeria is where I have my family and my roots, so you can only imagine how much I was looking forward to this trip to Nigeria after 11 long years.

But remember, the funeral was the reason I took this trip. This was only the second funeral I have attended in my whole life. Ironic how foreign the experience was, being at a funeral in the unknown land of heritage.  Truth be told, despite the mixed emotions I came into the event with, it turned out to be one of the most joyous ceremonies I’ve ever been to. For the first time, I experienced losing someone close to me, but I had joy knowing this beautiful women left a legacy that will not die.  We celebrated her life rather than death.

And This was done with such vibrant colors and patterns! Definitely something I wasn’t sure to expect considering the circumstances.  There were no black hats, dresses, and scarves typical to my concept of funerals.  We remembered and celebrated with bright colors and patterns that almost seem to permit any tears of sorrow.  It was almost as if she wouldn't allow us to be sad.  Looking back I know that she wouldn't have wanted it any other way.

The colors of my ancestry have given me a renewed sense of identity.  I love the joy of the people, the gratefulness they had for life, the pride they have in who they are and what they have to give to the world.  But most of all it spurred me to consider the question of my citizenship with a much deeper meaning than I had previously thought.

Am I Nigerian or Finnish, both, or neither?  The Bible states in Philippians 3:20, "For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ."

Today I have a mindset more on the essence of what’s to come after life here on earth and my true citizenship in Heaven.

It makes me glad to know that I have an eternity to spend there getting to know people like my grandmother who I really didn’t get to know here on earth. Imagine that!  Thank you for letting me share a piece of my summer with you.  I encourage you to be proud of all the aspects of your heritage, embrace each piece in some way, but recognize that our real home will be in the life to come.  Don't get too comfortable here.  It is but a vapor.  ;)

Sandra

How to Bring a Summer Look into a Fall Style

 The Summer Romper + Tights

This Romper from Anne Taylor Loft is so comfortable and cute that it shouldn't be put away for next spring.  Why not try a pair of tights to give a little bit more warmth for the cooler weather?  With the romper's classic colors and a simple polkadot, try adding an odd but subtly interesting pair of color tights.

 The Summer Romper + a Leather Jacket

With this outfit, a pale orange pair of tights was chosen to bring in the color of this unique rust colored leather jacket.

 Pairing your lighter summer outfits with tights, a leather jacket, and EVEN tall boots that are neutral in color - is a great way to pull your summer looks into Fall!

Links to MORE Trends that can be pulled from earlier this year into Fall

• The Floral Pants
• The Wedge Sneakers
• Multiple Looks from the City Photoshoot
• The Trench Coat
• Military Chic
• Menswear Fashion

Photo Credit: Casey Taylor

Splurge or Save

These Valentino heels have been on my Pinterest board entitled “Wishlist” for quite some time now. With a steep price tag of $945, they will probably stay there for good. That's why I was ecstatic to see their twin at Windsor for a fraction of the price! Of course, the quality is nowhere near Valentino standards, but if you still want the "look," these shoes achieve that goal. Some items are worth investing in while some can be bought at a budget friendly price. So... would you splurge or save on these Valentino heels? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

A Leopard Print Inspired Outfit for Fall

It is always on trend, sometimes over done, but ALWAYS posh. We are talking about leopard prints! Runways have been flooded with numerous ways to wear the once traditional leopard print. The classic take of tan & black print has morphed into black & white and other color on color prints. Not only has leopard print changed its look through the years, but the way it is styled has also taken a more "street style" approach.

Baggy sweaters, pops of color, and leopard accessories have found their way from the runway to the streets. So we decided to take on a black & white print perfect for transitioning to Fall.

So whether you rock the traditional tan & black or go crazy in color, revamping leopard prints are a must...and will NEVER go out of style. Click here for additional animal print ideas.

Photo Credit: Casey Taylor

Fashion Cents: Tips for Buying Cheap Clothes

Written by Alexis Gauthier Good-day Lovely Ladies! Alexis here :D I’m so excited to be part of the new Fashion ¢ents campaign, because a good fashion bargain is fashion that just makes sense. Today I wanted to share with you my heart behind this fashion feature and even give you girls a few tips on how to work the thrift store bargains!

Imagine yourself at a holiday party, fun friend outing, or even just walking the halls of school. No matter where you are, your desire is to look and feel confident, however with the pricy trends that have made their way to the runway and front covers of magazines, it is difficult to afford diverse outfits, let alone one astounding look! I’ve been there. We all have, however I was lucky enough to jump on the thrifting train at a young age.

Once I learned that I could get the same looks at thriftier prices, I never went back. Why? Because my clothing items were original and affordable. Sometimes it takes a little more time and effort, but I also get more for my money, so I have more options to choose from! Here are some of my thrift store secrets.

Salvation Army – 50% off Wednesdays

A lot of Salvation Army stores discount all of their shoes, clothing, and accessories 50% off all day on Wednesdays. I love this sale because I get twice for a price that’s already a bargain.

A couple of my favorite items found at a recent Salvation Army 50% off sale!

Ask for discounts!

You never know how much money you can really save until you try. One time, I was shopping with a friend who was in an especially particular time financial crunch because her wedding was just weeks away. It was to the point that she couldn’t even afford the thrift shop prices, so I explained her situation to the cashier, and the sales clerk was sweet enough to add an ADDITIONAL 50% off. Another time, I had picked out a shirt with a lot of holes in it, which I didn’t mind because I know how to sew, and I showed the lady the holes and asked if I could have a discount. I ended up scoring the shirt for 50 cents!

Color of the day discount

Goodwill and Salvation Army ALWAYS have a color of the day. If you find clothes tagged with that color, you get a discount. It’s always like a treasure hunt, but definitely worth the search.

College discount

If you’re in college, almost every location honors students with a 10% off discount. I’ve been using this discount since high school by presenting my dual-enrollment ID. If you’re not in college, check your local thrift store for similar discounts like senior discounts etc. and plan a thrifting adventure with a college mentor or grandparent so you can use their discount.

99cents a pound

Okay, so here is one of my BIGGEST thrift secrets. There’s select Goodwill locations that are called Goodwill Headquarters. These locations are usually very large buildings with two sides: there’s the normal store with a very large selection, and then there’s section that is 99 cents a pound. You need to have a lot of time on your hands to sift through the tables and buckets of clothes, but it is so affordable in the end. I’ve been twice, spent $7 both times, and left with about 15 items on both occasions. That averages out to about 50 cents per item. My favorite buy was a sequin pair of Express shorts.

Plato’s Closet grab bag sale

This is one of my absolute favorite discounts, however it only happens once or twice a year, depending on location. Every summer Plato’s Closet draws in crowds of fashionistas with the alluring temptation of gently used name brand clothing combined with extra low prices. How? They have a grab bag sale! The object of the sale is to stuff as much clothing and accessories into the bag as possible so that it can still tie, and then all the contents of the bag are yours for just $20. I’ve lined up for this sale before, in which the line wrapped around the building and girls of all ages ran inside when doors opened. I ended up leaving Plato’s Closet spending $20 and getting 25 items of nearly new clothing, all because I strategically folded and stuffed.

So, there you have it: some of the best discount tips from the bargainer herself! I hope you enjoyed. Leave some feedback so I know what YOU want to hear about in my next Fashion Cents feature.

The possibilities are endless.

Fall 2013 Trend: Animal Print

Animal print is a popular trend that will continue into the Fall 2013 season. Wear it as an accessory or go bold with a leopard shirt or pant. Animal prints are an excellent way to add a little spice to your Fall wardrobe.  

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Clutch | Sweater (similar) | Watch | Shoe | Belt (similar) | Wallet (similar)

Menswear Fashion

A woman's role in the corporate world has come along way. Women continue to gain respect on a professional level, and now we are taking it to the NEXT level with a menswear inspired wardrobe.

Dress suits and close toed pumps have always been a staple for women in the workplace. Now, thanks to the heavy influence of fashion, the barrier between a man and woman's closets has disappeared. Everything from vests, loafers, and trousers are making their way into a woman's wardrobe (and we can't say we are not a tad excited).

Below is a prime example of a revamped 9-5 look. We stuck with slimming black trousers and a simple (but elegant) undershirt. *Keep in mind the camisole is for a profession, not a night out. Be aware of how low cut your blouse is.* Then there is the fun part, adding a twist to the original oxford and blazer. Both blazers are boyfriend style, but each offer a different look...the black is traditional and the muted grey adds a touch of flare. As for the oxford pump, it is close toed AND office appropriate. Add the finishing touch of a statement piece, a delicately molded, yet bold necklace.

For a more casual work environment or out-of office occasion, go for the classic button down and tuxedo pant. The rich blue button down pops against the black pants, and the tuxedo pant detail pays homage to it's original design. Add a dressy loafer, edgy clutch, and bowler hat to the mix and you are ready to face the day, in and out of the office! P.s. bowler hats are adorable and complete any menswear affect!

The challenge is yours for the taking. We dare YOU to try menswear inspired fashion!

-Jenna O.

*Links are suggestions, not exact items*

The Drugstore Ten

Who doesn't love a good deal?! With cosmetics being so expensive these days, it is always satisfying to find quality products at a good price. Today, I am sharing ten of my drugstore favorites. Crest white strips have always been a drugstore staple that can be found in my beauty stash. They work especially well paired with their vivid white toothpaste.

Essie's Sand Tropez is my polish of choice when I want a natural manicure that will go with anything.

For a night out on the town, I love to wear Ardell's false lashes in 110. I use DUO lash adhesive so they don't budge, and finish the look with Loreal's Voluminous mascara.

Maybelline's Eye Studio gel liner is my pick for a drugstore liner. It has excellent color pay off, a great creamy texture, and glides on smooth. Elf's smokey eye pallette works incredibly well for being a mere $1.00. I use this pallette when I want to play up my eyes and add a dramatic effect. Revlon's lipstick in the shade Siren has received a lot of use from me this summer. It's a beautiful and bright, orangey- red color. Lastly, I daily reach for Rimmel's eye liner in white. I use it to line the inner rims of my eyes and  the inner corners. Their lip pencil in 049 Natural is a great nude shade that pairs nicely with many different lipstick colors.

It's always fun to try new beauty products at the Drugstore. At this price point, it makes it easy to try out different kinds of makeup that we may not normally try. What are some of your drugstore beauty favorites? Let us know in the comments below.

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Photos by: Rebekah Miura

Full Skirts Ahead

It is about that time of year! Before you know it, warm summer days will transform to crisp and cool weather. As for Fall Fashion trends...they are already here! But instead of sending a trench coat your way, ease your way into a garment that will bode well during the transition from one season to the next. We suggest one of Fall Fashion's favorites, full skirts!

Full skirts usually range from above the knee to mid calf but offer an array of styling options. The more popular version of the full skirt hits right above the knee. Below are a few examples (some offer a relaxed look while others are more structured).

If you are not completely satisfied with this particular version of full skirts, try a midi version. "Midi" full skirts can fall to the calf (depending on height). This sister skirt showcases just as much class if not more than the latter [shorter] full skirt, and is just as versatile.

- Jenna O.

Skirts in feature image:

Classy | Sleek | Feminine

The Mix: Maximize Your Wardrobe

These 6 wardrobe staples are essentials to have in your closet this season. Denim, floral, stripes, and polka dots are all patterns that are excellent to use for mixing. Think of them as neutrals. These patterns can be incorporated into an outfit as accessories or they can be more of a focal point when worn as tops or bottoms. Get the most out of your wardrobe this season by taking time to mix patterns and try new outfit combinations. You may be surprised at the outfits you already have in your closet! Your friends will think you went on a shopping spree and your pocketbook will thank you!  

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Striped Shirt (similar) | Denim Shirt | Polka Dot Shirt (similar) | Floral Skirt | Red Pants (similar)

Necklaces (left to right): 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 (similar)

DIY: UPCYCLING A DRESS INTO A TOP

Shorts, dresses, shirts, shoes! We grow out of our clothes but sometimes are still in love with them. Well, Miss Danielle has a solution to upcycling our dresses into shirts.

Now while there are no green thumb-like requirements, you will need to have access to a sewing machine* (or be handy with a needle and thread). Other staples include:

• Dress(es)
• Measuring tape/ Ruler
• Scissors
• Thread
• Sewing machine*/ Needle

First off, select a dress that you are willing to cut up. It could be a dress that has shrunk or is too short, or it could be a dress that you have had for years and want to bring to life. Next you will need to measure the length you want the shirt to be. You will then cut the garment leaving you with the start of your new top! *Before cutting the garment, keep in mind that sewing the hem will change the desired length of the top.* Once you have scrapped the remains of your OLD dress you will then measure out the length of the hem. Using a sewing machine is the quickest way to hem a garment, but the good ole fashion way with a needle and thread will give you similar end results. If you are NOT capable with either option, take your garment to a local seamstress or tailor. This option is stress free and most shops will charge no more than fifteen dollars. For a DIY post on How To make a Chevon Knuckle Ring, click here!

So next time you go to toss an old dress or even your JEWELRY, stop and think of the option of upcycling!

-Jenna O.

--Tops featured above are the result of upcycling--

Makeup by: Ashley Carrel

Photo credit: Sarah Powers

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte

How to Style A Maxi Skirt Two Ways: Day To Night

Maxi skirts are great foundational piece to have in your wardrobe. They are versatile skirts that can be worn day or night. This single skirt can be the foundation for several outfits. Today, I'll highlight two looks using the same maxi skirt and tank top combination. The first is a daytime look. This outfit is perfect for lunch with friends, shopping, or sightseeing. The lightweight, airiness of the skirt keeps you cool and unscathed from the heat, the laid back accessories keep it comfy and casual, yet stylish.

The second look is a classy evening ensemble. Sandals are swapped out for a pair of ankle strap heels, a chunky statement necklace replaces the light weight 3 strand necklace, a clutch takes the place of the straw tote, and a leather jacket is added for warmth and gives an edge to the outfit.

Taking an outfit from day to night does not have to be complicated. Jumping from one event to the next just got easier! The next time you have multiple engagements, try keeping a bag of accessories and a lightweight jacket in your car. Transitioning from daytime to nighttime is a cinch with just a few, simple accessory changes!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

The following are links to the outfits above:

Daytime look: Skirt | Tank Top | Belt | Shoes: Similar | Necklace: Similar | Purse: Similar | Sunglasses

Nighttime look: Jacket: Similar | Shoes | Necklace: Similar | Clutch: Similar