Capes...Not Just for Superheroes

I hope everyone had a fabulous Thanksgiving, and even better Black Friday shopping spree! I was out early on King St. in Charleston checking out all the hot trends for Winter and the upcoming holidays. And the one trend that stood out the most: Capes. Now I know what you may be thinking; upon googling "capes," I got all sorts of images of wizards, superheroes, and Elizabethan-style sword fighting straight out of medieval times. And if that's your thing, I say go for it! But what I have in mind is a much more elegant way to dress up any outfit.

Gap Poncho Sweater, $79.50

Nordstrom, $53.90

From runways to retail, capes have hit the scene in a big way. And while adding one to your wardrobe is a must, it's also important to know how to wear them and what works best for your body type. If you're shorter, go for a cropped cape that hits right at the waist. If you're pear-shaped, pick a more flowing option and add a belt around the waist to accentuate those curves! And variation in the length isn't the only new trend in capes; designers have added different fabrics into the mix, as well as detailing like faux fur trim, ruffled necklines, and button details that mirror the military influence seen in jackets this season. Pair a wool cape with skinny jeans, boots, and fingerless gloves for a cute and casual look, or dress it up  with a sequined capelet, silk blouse, and mini skirt for a night out! And while Marc Jacobs, Zac Posen, and Tory Burch are just a few of the high-end designers to choose from, check out the page (and the web) for other more affordable, and just as stylish, options!

The Loft, $128

Zara, $89.90

H&M, $39.90

Bonafide Packing Guide

Packing Guide

For those of you who know me, you know I tend to let my OCD get the best of me at times, and packing is no exception! I feel like I'm always on the go, whether it's a quick trip for work or a weekend away, and I absolutely hate to overpack. And with baggage fees being ridiculously high, I've had to figure out ways to get everything I need into only one bag, which is not an easy feat considering my love for shoes...

With that being said, I had my dear friend, Ms. Laura Hansen, (who just happens to be awesomely bada$$ at graphic design) take a boring excel template I had been using to list all my packing needs and create something actually usable. I wanted to be able to list outfits and essentials for day wear and nights out so that I could plan for each occasion on my trips and have exactly what I needed. It's pretty self explanatory and I hope you all get some use out of it! Click the link (under the picture) and print yourself a packing guide for all your upcoming holiday travel. I guarantee it will make packing a cinch!

Fall For Fur - Faux , of course!

Warm and fuzzy this winter means fur everything! From vests and jackets, to collars, gloves, and hats, the furry touch adds a luxe look to any outfit. And with the growing efforts of anti-fur campaigns, not only is faux fur bigger than ever, it's also a much more affordable (and animal-friendly!) option. I haven't come across a retailer yet that isn't carrying some element of fur in the line, and with so many options to choose from, there's no excuse not to be fully draped in fur! To get the look: pair a low-key outfit with a bold fur piece, like a jacket or vest, to vamp up your style. Whether you're running to the store, or out for a girls' night, fur has become a staple item for the wardrobe, to be worn for any occasion.
 
Not entirely sure you can pull off the look? Go for an item that's trimmed in fur, or add just a touch with a hat or gloves. Gap has a great cable-knit beanie with a faux fur pom pom that is too cute to pass up. Warm your frost-bitten hands with fur-trimmed gloves from the Loft or Mango. If you're like me and own way too many scarves, switch it up and add a fun fur neck warmer. Whatever your style, make sure you add a little something furry this season. And don't forget...save animals (and some $dough$) by buying faux!

Stay Tuned...

Check back Monday for my 'Fall for Fur' post!

Time's running out to save 30%!!

I can't say enough great things about The Loft right now! Whoever they hired as their merchandiser has done a spectacular job of pairing pieces and combining style elements to create classic and romantic looks for your wardrobe. I literally want every item in their 'Looks We Love.' Everything is on trend, from the fur-trimmed vests to the riding boots, capes, and over-the-top sparkle accessories. Whatever you do, do not forget to hit me up for the 'friends and family' 30% off coupon before you make your way to the store!

Google Fashion?

Boutiques.com

Good morning, followers! While scanning the fashion and style section of the Times this morning, I noticed that today marked the launch of Google's new fashion site, Boutiques.com, a website made up of virtual boutiques all merchandised to fit thousands of styles. You can choose by designer, celebrity, retailer, style genre, or create your own boutique, which I of course immediately did!

The 'create your own boutique' application takes you through a series of pictures of clothing, shoes, magazines, and even cocktail drinks, which you select based on your style preferences. It analyzes your individual style, compiling your selections to give your overall look, plus elements of other style genres that may also fit. I created my own (three times, just to make sure I stayed consistent!) and my style categories came up as a mix of Boho, Casual Chic, and Romantic, which I found to be right on the money!

Once you've set your preferences, you have the ability to select silhouettes, colors, and patterns you love (and hate), to be saved to your account for all your future shopping. It takes you through several more style analyzers, and the more you narrow down your likes and dislikes, the more helpful the site will be in selecting items you will love! If you don't want to create your own boutique, you can shift through the myriad of celebrities and 'follow' the styles you like! The end result: a huge clothing, shoe, and accessories selection to fit your style and fill your closet!

Stocking Stuffer - 'The Haute Box'

Birch Box

In the search for my Winter Must-Haves blog, I came across a site too good not to share! It's called Birch Box, and it has to be the greatest gift idea. Here's the premise: for just $10 a month, you receive a 'birch box' filled with make up samples from the best of the best brands. They collaborated with NARS, Benefit, Kiehl's, Too Faced, and so many more, to allow you to try all sorts of products without having to buy them first! If you do like an item from the box, you can easily go on the website and order the full-size version. They also give helpful make up tips and feature on-trend products. Gift it to a friend or treat yourself!

 

Friends and Family Savings Coupon...

Calling all my Ann Taylor and Loft shoppers!!

I just received a 'friends and family' coupon for 30% off now thru November 21st! Email me at mklhotsky@gmail.com if you want me to forward it on! I'm eying this little number for a barn party wedding this weekend. I'm thinking it will look just perfect with my cowboy boots! Be sure to check out all their holiday items for all of your upcoming festive events.

 

I wanna know where the gold at...

Monaco, $64.00

One thing's for sure...it's not in my bank account. But where better to spend my money than on some new bling! I was recently helping my brother pick out a necklace for a girl he's seeing, and I realized it had been years since I last bought anything new. Thankfully, I have a boyfriend who has kept me bedazzled, but a girl can never have too much jewelry, and I'm in serious need of some new earrings for fall...and maybe a few bangles...there's also a necklace I've been eyeing...(stay focused, Mariana...)

I have two favorite designers that are my go-to's for all things sparkle and glam. Moon & Lola is a great website to check out, and the artist just happens to be from the great state of North Carolina. I have my eye on the Monaco and Rambaugh earrings, both great for everyday wear, and nights out. Plus, both have that Native American-tribal-art look that's trending in jewelry.

Teency Texas, $60.00

When I'm feeling like being more hands-on and want to try my hand at designing my own pieces, I head over to Sonya Renee's website. She gives you the ability to pick your own chains, gems, initialed coins, and more. If you don't trust yourself making something stylish, don't worry! She has plenty of hand-crafted pieces already made that you can choose from. Now that I live in the Lone Star state, I'm thinking I need the "Teency Texas" around my neck. And Sonya Renee is from the Big D, and I am all about supporting the local artists! Be sure to check out both websites for your new Fall glitz!

Other great sites to check out include:
www.bijuju.com
www.handpicked.net

Katie's Hot Date Outfit!

Katie is looking for a smokin' hot outfit for a night out with her beau. The look she's going for: SJP's hot double-breasted leather jacket, lace dress, and chic accessories. The budget: $200. Here's what I found; remember, colors don't have to be an exact match, you just want to achieve the overall look!

I was able to find the two most important items, the dress and jacket, at Express. Pictured left is the Lace Overlay Long Top, $69.90; a curve-hugging dress with black lace over a blush shell with cap sleeves. Pair it with the (Minus the Leather) Ruffled-Hem Jacket, $98, as you head out for the night. This jacket is great for this look, or paired with a t-shirt and jeans. Not to mention double-breasted jackets are the look for fall and winter. I was instantly loving this look for less, but I was a little worried that I was going to have to overextend my $200 budget, when I saw that these two items totaled $168,and I still had to buy the purse and shoes. But then I noticed in the bottom right-hand corner that if you enter your email on the website, you receive a coupon for 15% off your entire purchase, bringing my total down to $142.72. Then I found a coupon on the site for $30 off when you spend $75; bringing me to a grand total of $112.72. I was back on track!

With about $87 left to spend on a necklace and bag, I had to get thrifty.  I am neglecting the shoes because I assume that Katie, like all girls, has a pair of black strappy heels. I looked to Forever 21 for the necklace, and found this cute layered option that would really make the blush shell lining of the dress pop! It's the little hints of color that really make the difference. With just under $75 left for a bag, I checked the "UNDER $99" section of Macy's handbags and found this great satchel on sale for $42.99. It's available in several colors, and I personally would get it in the deep red to take this outfit to the next level, but if you like to play it safe with neutrals, the taupe color works perfectly with this look. Overall, I'd say it's a look well duplicated for less. Knock 'em dead, Katie!

Glam Layered Necklace, $12.80

Linear Glazed Satchel, $42.99

The Look for Less!

So I realize it's been quite some time since I last posted, and I truly apologize for the neglect! To make it up to you, I've got a new blog idea that will definitely keep me on my toes, and that's because it involves all my followers! And before you say anything, I realize this is not a new concept and I'm certainly not the first to do it, but I am initializing a 'Look for Less' column on my blog! I'm asking all my followers to submit a look they love, whether it be from a magazine ad, an internet site, or a celeb paparazzi shot, and I will find that look with the budget you give me. I'll tell you the brand, the price, and even give you alternatives. From the outfit to the accessories, shoes, handbag, whatever you are looking for, I'll find it for less! 

The first submission comes from Katie...here's the look. I'll post tonight with my findings :) Find a look you love and email the picture to me at mklhotsky@gmail.com! I can't wait to see your requests for fab looks for less!

Boots McGoots!

Is it just me or is everyone else just dying for cooler weather? Maybe it's the 113 degree days and the record-breaking heat we are having in Dallas, but I am so ready to break out my scarves, gloves, peacoat, and especially my boots! (And not to mention all my Fall Must-Haves that I already bought...shh!)

It seems all the magazines and stores have already put out their Fall items and I think to myself..."eh, I'll wait til October when it's actually cool enough to wear these and THEN they'll be on sale!" But alas, some bargains are too good to pass up. Like right now, Victoria's Secret is having their "Fall for Boots" 20% off sale. And who says you can't save now, wear later?!

JS Buckle Clog

 VS offers every brand under one roof, and in every height, from the ankle to the mid-thigh (yow-za!). Whether you want comfy Uggs for around the house (who are we kidding, we wear these everywhere), or those stilettos and pumps for tha club, you can find every style imaginable! I, myself, am eyeing Jessica Simpson's Buckle Clogs (only $89!). That girl is a hot mess but I am lovin' her shoes! Whatever your style, make sure your feet are all 'booted' up for fall!

Naughty Monkey

Trending now... 

- wedge heels

- grommets, buckles, chains...all things hardwear

- neutrals or bold colors


-lace-ups

 

I got the hook up, holla if you hear me....

Steve Madden is having their sneak peak on new fall styles  and they are all 40% off!

Check out Elevaate and Discco, they're my faves! Also, if you don't see anything you like on the sneak peak list, don't worry, I still got your back...I mean feet. I happen to know a little coupon code that will still get you 20% plus free shipping on all regular priced items. 

Coupon code SHOPIT20. Hey, it's the least I can do for my followers :)

Top Six Picks for Fall

I recently read an article in the NY Times (Shoppers on a Diet) about a group of people who challenged themselves to pick six (SIX!) items from their wardrobe and wear only those pieces for an entire month. While I don't think it would be possible for me to get away with only six pieces of clothing, I do think it's important to have the on-trend basics for every season; six or so items that you can mix with everything else in your closet and have several different looks. I'll sometimes splurge for more expensive pieces (don't worry, these are all under $100) if I know they are styles that will never go out of fashion. And let's be serious...every style comes back around anyway.

In the fall and winter, it definitely gets easier to find more ways to wear something, because it's all about layering. Pair a summer top with a fun jacket and you are all set. Bottoms are easy too, because the perfect pair of jeans can go with any outfit. Therefore, I have come up with my top six picks you should consider adding to your wardrobe for the fall, and chances are they are pieces you can wear for years. With these six new items, see how many outfits you can come up with in a month, just by mixing them with something you already have. And hey, it's gotta be easier than wearing just six items period. 

*Note, if you already own something similar, replace that item with something else! And remember, accessories can change any outfit just as easily.

Top Six Picks: 

1. The Military Jacket
2. Grey Denim
3. The Denim Jacket
4. Statement Cardigan (sheer, patterned, or animal print)
5. NauticalTops
6. Chambray anything

 

 Gap Denim Jacket Classic Wash, $69.50

 Gap, $89.50

BR Slouchy Skinny Jean, $89.50

BR Animal Print Cardigan, $69.50

Ann Taylor Loft, $39.50

J. Crew Chambray Top, $79.00

The Denim Blues

In keeping on trend, thought this new 'I got the Denim Blues' Collection from Ulta was perfect for my previous mention of blue being the 'it' nail shade for fall. Colors include Acid Wash, Stone Wash, Indigo, Vintage, and The Skinny. With denim being the staple item for everyone's closet, it seems only fitting that your nails should match. Stayed tuned for my 'All Things Denim' post!

($9.95, Ulta)

I'm pretty sure I thought of this first...

We've all had those nights...or maybe weekends. You're out late, you crash at a (boy) friend's and the next day...well, let's just say you look like you've been run over by a dump truck. Twice.

I know in college I would see just how much I could stuff into my teeny tiny clutch and still get the zipper to close all the way. If it fit, there was usually some kind of concealer, mascara, and lip gloss. If there was more room, in went the blush, eye liner, and possibly even eye shadow. You can't escape to the bathroom for more than five minutes without getting a questionable look upon your return, so time is of the essence and you touch up with whatever you have. I learned over the years that cover up was usually priority number one, with mascara a close second. 


As I got better at knowing what was essential, I modified my purse choice a little to include a small make up case with everything I thought I'd need for rockin' that walk of shame. It's as if Benefit knew there were other girls out there just like me...

Introducing Benefit's new Sunday Funday palette, including bronzer, lip & cheek stain, lip shine, eye liner, four eye shadows, three brushes, AND a make up lesson (and chances are, we need every bit of extra help the morning after). It's everything you could possibly need in a 5x3 case. And it gets better....it's also available in Scene Queen, with four other shadow options to give you those smokey eyes, lip shines, and luminescent color for your cheeks. You could pack for an entire weekend trip with just these two small cases. 

I personally think I had the idea first...but I'll give them the Benefit of the doubt.

($38 each, Sephora)


 

What LiLo's Known for...

You're probably thinking prison, drugs, and ankle bracelets, but I'm referring to leggings and tights. They've made their way back on the shelves each year with new innovations in stretch, texture, and design, and are now even available in denim (a.k.a. the jegging). What better way to stretch your fave summer dress into fall by pairing it with a cute pair of legwear.

Now, if you're high class like LiLo (oxymoron?), and can afford to  drop quite a bit on your leggings and tights, she's got some really cute styles in her 6126 collection, ranging in price from $48-$264; I particularly like Lady Bird, $55 (see right).

LiLo's Leggings

If you're anything like me though, one night out at the bar and you've probably got a tear or two in your tights. If you want to be old school and try to prevent that tear from spreading up your thigh with the clear nail polish trick, by all means go for it! For me, the cheaper something is, the more replaceable it is, and torn tights mean a trip to Target! For $6 to $9, you can get equally cute pairs that you won't cry over when you snag them on a bar stool. Here are some of my faves:

Merona Graphic Leaves Tight $6.30

Merona Patchwork Net Tight $6.30

BR Everyday Knit Legging $38.50

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For legwear that won't tear, leggings are best, and they can even take over the role of pants most of the time. My favorite is the cotton Everyday Knit Legging from Banana Republic. I own three pairs and they are amazingly soft and durable. Great with oversized sweaters and boots, they are my go-to item when transitioning into fall and my legs are just not quite ready to be fully covered up!

There are, of course, many other options available, with chains, buttons, glitter, rips, and so many other embellishments. What you like depends on what you are wearing them with, and the look you are going for. Don't be afraid to try pops of color; Target and Urban Outfitters are big on the neons! I stick to black and brown, in solids and patterns, but I am really feeling the leather legging this season. Now I just have to figure out where I can get my hands on (and legs in) a pair.