There are times when you come across an item that you are madly in love with, just not the price tag.  Often we are left having to make that tough decision whether to break the bank or go for a similar item that is just as fabulous but a more accommodating price.

1A. Christian Louboutin Dafsling glittered platform – $1,075

1B. Steve Madden ‘Dejavu’ – $129.95

2A. Miu Miu Glitter Bootie – $890

2B. To Be Announced ‘Alvarez’ – $199.95

3A. Giuseppe Zanotti – $695

3B. Bebe ‘Omega’ glitter wedge – $119.95

4A. Giuseppe Zanotti – $550

4B. Carvela – $214.86

5A. Miu Miu sandal – $730

5B. Badgley Mischka ‘Indigo Iii’ – $118

6A. Kate Spade ‘New York Charm’ heel – $325

6B. Roland Cartier ‘Havana’ – $85

7A. Sergio Rossi glitter pump – $399.95

7B. Carlos by Carlos Santana – $99

Although winter has been unseasonably warm this year, that makes it that much harder from keeping the hotter temperatures out of your mind, what better way to give into this unusual behavior then by adding a neon hue to brighten up your wardrobe! Just because it will be cold soon does not mean we have to stop the shine!

1. Diane von Furstenberg – $625

2. Lanvin skirt – $1,190

3. Rag & Bone pants – $187

4. Equipment blouse – $355

5. Giuseppe Zanotti – $695

6. Gap Neon scarf – $30

7. Cambridge satchel – $200

8. Graham leather wrap bracelet – $55

Jump into the New Year with some of the hottest patterns that are flooding retailers all over! From box to square ensembles, closely identical yet slightly different, be sure to leave an imprint to your look with these popular must have prints!

Tartan

LEFT: J. Crew Boy shirt in Carrick Tartan– $78
RIGHT: Christian Louboutin Rollergirl tartan canvas loafers – $995

Plaid

LEFT: Victoria’s Secret Plaid Ruffle Top – $49.50
RIGHT: Old Navy Plaid Coat– $60

Houndstooth

LEFT: Charter Club Houndstooth Jacket– $99
RIGHT: Marni Houndstooth Blouse– $890

Gingham

LEFT: C&C California Gingham Top – $118
RIGHT: Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Gingham Top – $329

The peacoat has come a long way since it was first donned by U.S. and European sailors. This version by Burberry with its pleated back skirt brings a perfect dose of feminine detailing to the classic style.

LEATHER SKIRTS

As if we could not get enough leather during the fall season, leather skirts in all shapes – tailored, pencil or pleated, are a great touch to spice up a casual look.  On contrary to what most women think, leather skirts are quite versatile and easy to carry from day, work to night with the right accessories and complementing pieces.  Tips to pulling off: keep the look simple and pair with a casual top.  Limit this look to one leather item. This is a classic piece that will remain in your closet for years to come.

BRIGHT BOTTOMS

In contrast to the neutrals and darker shades that normally preside during the colder season, brighter tones have carried over into the fall season, as well.  Whether high-waisted, flare or cropped, this season’s shapes offer a palette of vibrant, bolder hues.  A great pop to any outfit.

HIGH SLITS

Hemlines may be longer, but yet still manage to show a peek of skin.  Quietly seductive, yet refined with a twist.  Balance out this look with a more concealed top that shows less.  Dare to bare, one of the sexiest looks this season.

SHINE

Glossy finished, metallic fabrics exude glamour.  A great statement piece to make any outfit sparkle.  The best way to pull this off is by keeping the shimmer to one item only, let one shine and opt for more subtle tones.

POLKA DOTS

This season’s go-to print, dots are a playful pattern and a fresh way to add a little fun to your wardrobe. With the different sizes ranging from microscopic to oversized dots, worn together or as a separate, this trend is spot on.

MONOCHROME

Toss the idea of being too “matchy-matchy,” major overload with a single color head-to-toe! Translating a monochrome look can be done with any shade.  Stand out with a single color or pare down the look with neutral accessories.

Maxi dresses are a must have wardrobe staple for summer. Slip into this silk version by Charlie Jade with braided trim neckline, ruffled hem and bohemian print for the perfect dose of warm weather chic. 

Spice up your summer wardrobe with a pair of vibrant red denim jeans by Paige Premium Denim. Seen on the well toned gams of celebs strolling down Robertson Boulevard, fortunately there is no need to venture to Los Angeles to scoop up this hot little trend.

First appearing on the well trod soles of supermodel Kate Moss, classic, pointed toe pumps have reappeared after several years in fashion Siberia. This version from Nine West includes two hot trends in one, the essential pump fashioned in animal print.

BC Footwear has come to the rescue of all clog lovers, including myself. These uber cool booties have the studded trim and wooden platform heel of a classic clog, but the side zip ankle boot keeps your ankles toasty when the temps drop this winter.

“Shoulder jewelry” is what designer Ruth Davis calls her Lucky Lady Bra Straps. These handmade beaded strands cleverly hook onto any multi-way or convertible bra that comes with detachable straps. The purpose: allowing every garment ever created that cuts off where a bra strap sticks out to finally be worn fashionably without the undeniable annoyance of a strapless bra that won’t stay up or clear, shiny, plastic straps that are far too visible. 

Having trouble wearing strapless blouses herself, Davis says, “I would get a large gap underneath my clothes, so I decided to design something colorful that was not a bling bra.” Going to work at none other than her kitchen table, Davis crafted an accessory that was adaptable to her bra yet appeared built into the shirt.

“After much trial and error, I settled on the best way to construct the bra straps and soon began wearing them out in public with my tank tops, off the shoulder tops and peasant tops. I was shocked at the overwhelming positive response I was getting from my girlfriends!” says Davis.

So who can wear the Lucky Lady Bra Straps?

“My youngest client is in the sixth grade on up to ladies in their seventies. They really are functional for all ages.”

Check out the entire Lucky Lady Bra Strap collection at www.luckyladybrastraps.com.

Based on modern street style and what women want for their wardrobes, Vintage Havana clothing has all the hottest summer fashions under $100. Everything from utilitarian pants, boyfriend blazers, embroidered dresses, sexy miniskirts and denim jackets convey constant trend on trend action, and these three inspirational looks comply completely.

Playful Prints

The New Neutral

Boyfriend Inspired

Check out the entire line at shopvintagehavana.com.

1. Boy-cut Blazers are feminine all the way when coupled with a clean skinny jean and an ultra floral top.

2. Caged Shoes bring a sexy update to spring’s staple dresses and skirts.

3. Tapered Trousers and a fitted T-shirt look flattering with a pair of stand-out, chunky sandals.

4. Novelty Shorts when pleated and cuffed become dressy in a snap. 

5. Floral Dresses flourish a feel good tone over and over again.

6. Turquoise hues from aqua to teal instill a calming allure.

7. Abstract Prints express imagination at its finest.

8. Bib Necklaces hooked by golden petals, gem stones and extra fabric create a fun-spirited neckline.

9. Weightless Cardigans updated with ribbons, lace and chiffon are perfect for layering.

10. Clogs an old-school basic are back and revamped.

Pamper your pet with a fashionable chew toy from Haute Diggity Dog. The collection offers miniature versions of designer pumps and purses for your pooch, mimicking the industries best with names like Bark Jacobs, Vera Wag and Dolce and Grrrbana. Supporting the trend, owner of Lulu Jane’s elegant pet accessories, Kris Fellowes says, “Women comprise 89% of the buying power for pets. It only makes sense to make pet items that appeal to the woman and her fashion sense.” We concur!

Our Top Picks for The Doggie Diva:

Fursace

Kate Spayed

Vera Wag, Jimmy Chew, Dolce and Grrrbana and Bark Jacobs

Christian Loubarkin

Chewy Vuiton

From hands to feet and head to wrist, we’ve got it covered. Starting with…

Vera Wang’s Tough-Meets-Tender ‘Sheila’ Italian Boots

Candy Colored Watch Bands

Kate Spade’s Three String Pearl Necklace

J Crew’s Reversed Seam Cardigan

T-strap Sandal Key Chain

Multicolored Fingerless Gloves

Burberry’s Heart Print Rain Boots

A Knitted Cap

- Jessica Krznaric, Online Fashion Editor

For the stylish, yet value conscious shopper, blingiton.net offers the hottest fashion accessories and designer inspired purses at extremely affordable prices. Following in the footsteps of Amazon.com and other online retailers, the fashionista friendly site dodges steep mark-ups while highly valuing quality products. 

“Many retailers either offer a single line of accessories targeted to a specific occasion, or stock so many items that customers are too overwhelmed to make a smart choice,” said founder Camille Gatenby. “Our well-rounded collection represents the many styles real women are expected to master - for example, casual on the weekends or glam at a formal wedding. And most importantly, we feature unique products that aren’t anything you’d find at your local mall.”

But that’s not all that sets this “one-stop” accessory haven aside. Bling It On’s virtual Internet parties put a curveball on online shopping, allowing women to come together regardless of their physical location and advise each other on great looks they can create within the site.

“It’s about infusing the collaborative spirit of web into the way we shop, and it’s a fun way for women to shop together, no matter where their friends and family live,” said Gatenby.

- Jessica Krznaric, Online Fashion Editor

A Few Fab Finds:

Silver Loop Necklace Set, $29

Feather Trimmed Circle Necklace, $26

Burgundy Croc Purse, $59

Gold Bangles, $23

Steve Madden’s Wool Topperscreams angel-esque. Plus, black saucer buttons against a cream backdrop is pure brilliance.

Ultra-slick denim is a great alternative to the standard black legging. 
- Citizens of Humanity Skinny Legging

Global-inspired fashions like these Persian Plaid Wrapsis a quick way to expand your color scheme and add dimension.

I love the knotted tie and slouched side on these Jessii Ankle Boots,not to mention the cognac hue.

The stormy palate and diagonal pleating puts an interesting spin on the beloved tunic.
- One World Ombre Tunic

You can never go wrong with a geometrics stone cuff.
- Jet Circle Cuff

Los Angeles-based fashion designer and celebrity stylist Margi Kent reentered into the high-end market with the debut of her Fall ’09 collection. Taking time out to focus on personal styling services, Kent’s latest assignment (dressing Stevie Nick’s for the Fleetwood Mac World Tour) has allowed her current line to flourish in custom bridal wear, cocktail and evening gowns.

“Pulling back from large retailers has allowed me to explore what I love best, fashion as conceptual art and to create couture pieces in a studio setting,” says Kent. “The new sensibility forged during this period has had a major impact on the collection.” 

The Rock N’ Roll Doctor, a name acclaimed from her skill to repair any fashion mishap, continues to draw inspiration from a love of sculpture and architecture. Working closely with celebrities like Meryl Streep, Demi Moore, Mariah Carey and Neil Diamond, Kent’s designs wed pleasure with intellect, while strongly supporting the importance of inner beauty.

“Stars must stay true to themselves and wear things that express who they are, while keeping a silhouette that fits their body type,” states Kent. “They should never let the clothes wear them. It’s important to acknowledge the current trends, but do not give in completely. The end result is an image that is classic, individual and therefore timeless.”

- Jessica Krznaric, Online Fashion Editor

A Look From the Runway…

While anticipating the arrival of fall, here are the top trends to be on the lookout for.

1. The Fitted Blazer
Tailored to replicate a menswear persona, a fitted blazer over a plain tank and jeans generates causal to dressy in 60 seconds flat.
We Love: The Kenna-T Boyfriend Blazer

2. Elaborate Leggings
Leather, prints and zippers revamp leggings to a whole new level of chic.
We Want: Diane von Furstenberg’s Printed Leggings

3. Sweater Shoes
Crochet detailing gives a comfy, cozy fireplace allure on these sweater-knit boots.
We Gotta Have: The UGG® Australia Sweater Knit Boot

4. Faux Fur
Statement-making faux fur vests are pocket friendly and a stylish counterpart to dark fabrics.
We Like: Damselle’s Faux Lynx Fur Vest

5. Studded Handbags
Belted studs awaken any background and the papaya print reminds me of leaves changing colors.
We’ve Eyeing: Rebecca Minkoff’s “Stud Devote” Tote

6. Chucky Metals
Layered chains, thick cuffs and chucky bracelets instill an edgy, rock-and-roll vibe. 
We Crave: Lois Hill’s Handcrafted Cuff Bracelet

- Jessica Krznaric, Online Fashion Editor

Popping up on the market, organic origins are revolutionizing youngster wear. Wee Chic, the freshest addition in Baltimore, features apparel, accessories and gifts for newborns to 6-year-olds.

An exclusive retailer to Appaman and Kate Quinn Organics, the environmentally friendly shop also carries Ella Moss, Michael Stars, Splendid and J Knott Art. The store, born from owner Bridge Stickline’s inability to find the clothes she desired for her daughter, is now a threshold to stylish, organic fashions for children.

Grown and processed without the use of chemicals and pesticides, organic cotton offers clothing without latent chemicals.

“Although not every product is organic, we were very thoughtful about the fabrics in our assortment. I sought out designers that use organic cottons and bamboo fabrics in new modern ways that give eco-dressing a new face,” Stickline says.

- Jessica Krznaric, Online Fashion Editor

Popular on the Rack…

Boys

Baby Blue Bulldog Toddler Tee

Cotton Twilled Khaki Board Shorts. Available in Putty & Sunny Blue.

Organic Cotton Cowboy-style Button Up and Cargo Pants

Girls

Stretch Cotton Geo Dress

“Amazingly soft” Peacock Tee

Snap Front Denim Skirt

Baby

Organic Cotton Peacock Onesie

Signature Kelly Green Monkey Onesie

“Light as a Feather” Lavender Romper

Coming this fall: Tea Collection’s non-chemically treated, 100% cotton pajama line.

Wee Chic
10751 Falls Road, Ste. 101
Lutherville, MD. 21093
410.878.7400
http://www.weechic.com

Prom pandemonium flooded this year’s fashion front with flashy neon draperies and punchy prints. With formality slowing fading, sheer gowns with minimal beading came highly preferred, among last year’s short and sassy ruffled styles.

Jelysa Sheppard (shown above) chose a short scarlet Jovani dress from Ransom’s Boutique in Towson.

“I wanted my prom dress to be short with a one strap shoulder. I had set out looking for simple, yet elegant and different,” Sheppard said.

Also on the A list for prom-goers were high platform shoes with thick straps, flip flops and minimal jewelry. For men, white tuxes won over the usual attack of the black. Tennis shoes and sunglasses made appearances with canes and top hats falling off the radar.

John Critzos (shown above) went bold to his senior prom, sporting a red tuxedo and a red baseball hat.

“I decided to wear a red tux because I like to stand out, and I knew it would be one of a kind. The majority of the guys wore white tuxedos though, which was a huge hit this year.”

Other Prom-goer’s Picks:

- Jessica Krznaric, Online Fashion Editor

The Giada by Sam Edleman– An edgy gladiator style sandal embellished with front beading and leopard prints.
Perfect For: An afternoon lunch

The 9927 Braided Thong Sandal by Viva– A well-dressed braided strap with rhinestone detailing, drenched in soft silver hues.
Perfect For: A night on the town

The I9E184 Tassel Sandal by Ioannis – A bold t-strapped sandal merging toe support and playful tassels.
Perfect For: Beach Travels

The Big Buckle Sandal by Cocobelle– A patent leather flat highlighting bright yellow fashion schemes and enlarged buckles.
Perfect For: City Shopping

The Cree by Cynthia Vincent– A one-of-a-kind Bohemian shoe dressed in suede fringe and electric teal tones.
Perfect For: Poolside Relaxation

The Jeweled Sandal by Giuseppe Zanotti – An artsy t-strap flat dressed in red suede and a jeweled brooch.
Perfect For: Office Attention

- Jessica Krznaric, Online Fashion Editor

Couture designer, Nicole Miller showcases flowing, fitted and floral styles in her 2009 line of spring dresses. Her Silk Georgette Halter places silvery spirals to lighten the purple backdrop and weaves a dramatic halter strap for a low-cut neckline.

When playing with grays, Miller contrasts textures for a striking outcome. Her Metallic Dress unites a soft floral, pleated-front bodice with a loud, above the waist taffeta skirt.

Solids are equally stunning. Nicole’s Faux Wrap Matte Jersey Dress uses the elements of an asymmetrical neckline, a luring off the shoulder accent, and waistline tie to create a summer showoff piece.

The Sleeveless Jersey Sheath Dress is just as sassy with vertically lined pleats on an Empire waist.

Playful prints and baring shoulders make this handkerchief style “One Shoulder Print Dress” full of fun.

Miller arranges lilacs into a geometric grid by adding bold colors and solid vertical lines on the backside of her Matte Jersey Dress to emphasize a slim fit.

The maxi dress or what we like to call “our figure friendly wear anywhere dress” creates the ultimate union between style and comfort. Lightweight and ideal for lounging, weekending, working or dining, the Splendid Stretch Knit Maxi Dresshas worked its way into our closet as a summer must!

Golden flats similar to Sam Edelman’s Greco Gladiator Sandals combine metallic leather with front braiding and double ankle straps for an effortless complement to lengthy dresses.

Complete the look with Jessica McClintock’s Embellished Gathered Clutch,whose neutral tones and geometric stones draw subtle flair to simple solids.

- Jessica Krznaric, Online Fashion Editor

Even though this outfit is perfect for the office, it’s also an ideal ensemble for travel.  The packability and neutral tones of each piece make this a suitcase mix and match pleasure.


These menswear inspired ‘S MAX MARA Dress pants capture the latest trend in androgyny.





Pairing the pants with this body conscious sleeveless C-ZERO knit top, creates a perfect balanced silhouette.




The bold ruffles of this Jones New York Ruffled-Front Long-Sleeve Cropped Sweater Jacket adds a feminine touch to the ensemble. Plus, it combines the comfort of a knit with the sleekness of a jacket. Perfect for transitional dressing.


The Alfani “Arrezo” Clutch adds a textural element of snakeskin, plus, the multi-colored hues provide a great complement to any outfit, and finalize the definition of gray. 





Michael Kors “Brookville” Platform Sandalslengthen and elongate the look.

This ensemble calls for one piece of bold jewelry, which will not compete with the elaborate neckline. Enter the 14k Gold Multistone Earrings, an investment piece that will pay many returns.

 
For the final touch, spritz on Miss Boucheron Eau de Parfum Spray. Now you’re ready to conquer the workforce and break the glass ceiling.

It’s that time of year again. Dressing up warm just to peel it off to get cooler later in the afternoon.  What’s a girl to do?  First stop, put on the 6 Degrees Striped Dress with Knot Detail.

To keep warm, pop on the easy-to-remove-later 525 America Motorcycle Cardigan
.
 
It’s just getting warm enough to start letting your toes peep out, but you’ll want some thickness to nod to the cold weather, and some yowza to make a nod to your extreme fashion sense.  Nothing better than a pair of kick-‘em gorgeous BCBGirls “Rossina” Platform Sandal Women’s Shoes.
 
The Alfani “Genova” Cut Out Handle Clutch is easy breezy and helps pulls this outfit together nicely.


And for the final touch, your jewelry statement: 14k Gold Citrine & Garnet Ring to flash at the friendly daffodils outside. .
 
And the exquisite 14k Gold Onyx Spiral Drop Earringsto contrast your blonde or red hair; or, if you’re a brunette or darker, even better—their statement: drop dead gorgeous darkness.

Now can’t you just see yourself on the back of an Italian’s motorcycle, zooming through Rome in this number?  But barring that trip to Italy, this will still work in the office, on campus, or out and about with the gals for happy hour or your significant other for dinner.

Oh, P.S. How could we forget!  The perfect fragrance?  Why, Flower by Kenzo, of course.

With summer just around the corner, there’s no time like the present to scoop up the hottest swimwear trends for 2009. Here’s what you’ll be seeing on the beach and at the pool this year!

The Sexy Strip: a silver trikini (a strip connects the top of the bikini to the bottom) with inlaid stones.

Tarzan’s Girl: a black and silver tight-to-the-skin bikini with a skirt in a sleek, snake-skin texture.

Oh la la, Auguste Herbin: hyper-graphic, geometrical cut-outs that take trikini’s to the next level.

Think Bridget Bardot: more cloth in a bikini, with a gathered-bustier top and teeny, flouncy bottoms, in an extremely feminine dotted pattern—girly, girl!

St. Tropez - 1960: example, the Panos Emporion suit, that offers more coverage (gathered) in a sleek maillot.

No Straps, Please: a bustier top with a cleavage-ring and low-cut bikini bottoms, set in a floral pattern leaving beach-goers oo’ing and ahh’ing.

Picnic Girl: tiny red and white picnic cloth, sewn into an itsy bitsy little bikini with blue ribbons trimmed in; the accessorized dangling plastic cherries scream play, play, play!

Sardinia Cover Up: chic and sophisticated, with quarter length, slightly-belled arms, thigh-high hem, and an empire-waist cut, in rich plum colors.

Elegant Glamor: black one piece with a thick white stripe starting from under the breastbone alllll the way down, topped off with a wide brimmed black hat secured with a white scarf.  Top this baby off with some black Channel glasses and everyone will want to be you.

Coral on the Reefs: sophisticated, vibrant colors, like reds and corals, alone or contrasted with white, in bikinis with scallop-edged tops, and one piece, higher-than-hip cuts.

Jet Set: brown and taupe teeny print, small-gathering at the cleavage, sweet-slim straps in a one piece say beauty-without-trying.

Cape Town: an asymmetrical, plum-brown, second-skin one piece with one chained shoulder strap.

Acid Explosion: a bikini with framed-black colors splashed everywhere.

A Two Way Impossibility, Possible: this is a different cut, without trying to be different - a playful song of yellow. Bikini bottoms that almost look like shorts, but are definitely bikini bottoms; a bikini top that almost looks like a ribbed bustier, but is really a bikini. This little ensemble could easily be a itsy bitsy bikini or a shorts set!

Geometry You Can Love: string bikinis in a neo-geometric prints, and bikinis without strings that have geometric built-in belts, and totally geometric tops.

Beachwear for The Guys: ultra-Hawaiian-floral-on-dark-green shots and pants.

Photos Credits: Journal des Femmes