No one can ignore that our economy is still down and many of us are still faced with empty wallets. Yet we don't want to give up shopping! This has inspired a new post idea we will be doing once or twice a month. We will be bringing you fabulous new arrivals at your favorite budget friendly stores! And of course we had to start off with the trendy, inexpensive store renowned for this: Forever 21.

1) Hello Kitty Jewel Bow Tee, $15.80
A girly graphic tee, perfect for layering under a tough, leather jacket.

2) Fur Collar Coat, $42.80
Look totally glam in a double breasted coat in a bright color with a faux fur collar.

3) Rhinestone Studded Clutch, $9.80
A faux leather clutch that's perfect for a night out.

4) Antique Chains Bracelet, $4.80
Be unique and mix two metals in this chunky chain bracelet.

5) Belted Sweater Top, $11.50
A simple, but flattering top that looks great on everyone and comes in a variety of fun colors.

6) Sequin Knit Mini, $22.80
Be sparkly and comfy in this trendy, body conscious skirt.

Read more »

If you’re unfamiliar with Fashion Confidential, you are missing out! They are a website dedicated to bringing fashionistas like you amazing designer finds. Yet unlike typical sites, they don’t actually sell the items themselves. Instead, they do all the work for you and bring you the best designer finds from all over the web to one place for easy shopping. Fashion Confidential makes it painless to browse for designer clothing, bags, shoes, and accessories. But don’t worry recessionistas, there is also a Bargain Hunter section on the website for discounts on designer goodies.

Oh wait, there’s more! Fashion Confidential recently launched their own online magazine that is a “must-check-out”. If you are interested in anything designer fashion, then you’ll be sure to be interested in their online magazine which can be viewed directly from their website. The Fashion Confidential magazine includes information about the newest trends, the latest collections from the designers, how to create trendy looks, and lots more.

The Fashion Confidential magazine is set up to look like a real print magazine, with a clean, crisp layout and seamless organization, but with a lot more convenience. Their November 2009 issue is currently available for viewing online. (Check it out here!) The first page shows a neat table of contents with the second page diving directly into designer fashion content. (With the easiness of being able to click links featured on any of the pages). Unlike some other online magazines, Fashion Confidential magazine makes all 40 something pages a breeze to read on the computer. It also helps that if some delightful piece happens to catch your eye, you have the option of ordering it right then and there from their website. So even if I am not shopping for anything, I will definitely be checking out Fashion Confidential every month for their online fashion magazine.

Read more »

The new face of Chanel, Lily Allen. The new handbag collection Coco Cocoon that launched early this month (Oct 2009) is fresh and modern. The bags are reversible, and can be turned inside out, so are actually two styles in one.
The pictures are exquisite the handbags even more.

All I have to say is I HEART KARL!!!

Enid P.

Read more »

I don't know about you, but I was definitely pleased when I heard that studs were still in. Especially since I've rarely had time to stack up on many studded goodies. Even though my style is more girly girl, studs are such a great way to add that tough factor without looking like you're trying too hard. Go for just a touch on a ring or bangle. More adventurous? Try a hot studded vest or jacket. I'm currently on the looked out for the perfect studded boots.

1) Yumas Black Suede Boot, $150.00
2) Stud Leather Jacket, $290.00
3) Black and 18ct Gold Plated One Stud, $266.66
4) Studded Satchel, $595.00
5) Studded Vest, $24.50
6) Stud Strap High Heel Suede Booties, $587.50

PS! Follow us on Bloglovin'!!

Read more »

Sorry for the lack of updates here. I've been lacking inspiration in everything the past couple of days. I'll try to post more frequently! Anyways, I don't know if you guys remember my obsession with the JJ Winters grey fringe bag that I posted about a few weeks ago. I finally found a close look-alike, though I don't know yet if I want to order it. It's definitely cheaper than $400 (it's $58). I found it at a site called, Fashion Junkee. If you haven't heard about it, it's been featured in many fashion magazines. They offer many designer inspired clothing, accessories, and jewelry for an affordable price. I, obviously, scoured through their handbag selection and found so many expensive looking items that's perfect to use as your new summer handbag.

Nude handbags are a great alternative to your original black handbag. It's less harsh, but it still matches with everything. It's all about details when you're carrying a neutral bag. The braided straps on the Kooba inspired bag is just the kind of detail you should look for when choosing a unique design. And white handbags are classic for summer. It's refreshing and the gold and black detailing in this flapover purse is so simple, but pretty.

• Oversized Fauxe Leather Braided Handbag, $63.00

• Large Oversized Flapover Tassle Purse, $52.00

If you already have a neutral bag, or you just want to try something new, bright colors are a huge trend for warmer seasons. What's more perfect than a pop of yellow or purple when you're out walking in a white tee and jeans? Patent works great for bright colors by making the color even more noticeable. If you're not a big fan of patent, a woven/mesh material is another great option.

• Oversized Large Patent Double Handle Tote, $44.00

• Oversized Large Wide Woven Handbag Tote, $50.00

Oh yes, how could I end this post without showing you the look-alike bag I found. Yes it's definitely a close match to the one I was lusting after, though it's very different at the same time. We'll see if it gets ordered or not.

• Boho Fringe Faux Leather Messenger Bag, $58.00

Read more »

Hello ST readers! I'm so sorry about being MIA for the longest time. It's been a pretty busy two weeks, which is why I haven't had time to be online much at all. I hope everyone had a great Spring break, or for those who haven't had theirs yet, I hope you will have a fun, relaxing break. I definitely needed it to rejuvenate myself after a stressful week of finals. But now that a new quarter has started, I'll hopefully have more time to update.

Now onto the fashion! I've recently been gravitating toward more vintage-y, boho pieces when shopping. I don't know if it's just my personal taste or the sunnier weather. Either way, I love finding unique, no-fuss items that make an outfit look so effortless. I do hate it though when I run into a shirt or skirt I fall in love with, but then look at the price tag and I'm forced to sullenly put it back on the rack (ie: I found the cutest skirt last weekend, but didn't want to pay $60 for it). But lucky for me, Forever 21 has been stocked full of boho chic pieces that are way more affordable.

1) Tribal Mini Skirt, $15.80
2) Drew Platform Pumps, $22.80
3) Fringe Shoulder Bag, $24.80
4) Faceted Flower Ring, $5.80
5) Printed Banded Knit Top, $16.90
6) Painted Reptile Bracelet, $3.80

Read more »

I am currently obsessed with this JJ Winters Suede Fringe Bag. Honestly, I never was a big fan of fringe, especially on shoes and bags. But for some reason this bag grew on me quite quickly. It's in a nice messenger, hobo shape with a braided handle that gives off that same bohemian vibe that the fringe does. But the main reason I'm fond of this fringe bag compared to all the other versions floating around is the fact that it comes in gray. I know it doesn't seem like such a high criteria, but I can't seem to find a cheaper version in this color anywhere. Fringe bags tend to come in only two colors -- black and brown. But with the $400 price tag the JJ Winters bag comes in, all I'll be able to do is lust from my computer screen.

Vanessa Hudgens carrying around her fabulous JJ Winters Suede Fringe Bag that should be riding on my shoulder instead.

Read more »

How many of you are familiar with Be & D's studded Garbo? If you are, then you know that it was introduced by the designers Be Inthavong and Steve Dumain five years ago. And if you're already a big fan, then you'll be happy to hear that they decided to relaunch the bag along with many similar styled clutches and belts. Supposedly many celebrities have already ordered the bags! And even if you haven't heard of them before, if you're looking for a high quality, trendy but timeless bag, the Garbo satchel would be a good handbag to consider. Studs are hot on everything from shoes to jackets, and a studded satchel would be a perfect toughening element to your outfits.

Of course I had to peek at their website and I couldn't help but drool after these other items featured on their site.

Cosette Hobo, $995.00
A perfect mixture of simplicity and trendy details. Although they come in other colors (and materials) this deep purple is my favorite.

Belleville Hobo, $1,890.00
If it wasn't for the price tag, I'd scoop this up since it'd be perfect for school. Hobo bags look effortlessly chic, and mustard yellow is such an eye-catching color.

Peeptoe Slingback, $695.00
In theme with the tough element, this rocker-vibe shoe in a python texture would be a match made in heaven with a girly dress.

Beatty Wedge, $485.00
Even though this is a wedge, it's still dressy enough to wear out to any sort of formal event. And the black and gold keeps things interesting.


But my favorite of all the items on their site would have to be the Perry Mini. And yes, I would check out the sale section (I'm a college student, hello).

Perry Mini (in fuschia), $415.00
I can't get over this amazing color. Although not as subtle as deep purple, it's still a handbag that can pretty much work with any outfit. Alas, it is all sold out. This would be my luck.

Read more »

All things girly seem to be the recent trend these days. Just a couple days ago I featured a post on lace, and if you love romantic details, then you'll love this one too. Ruffles have been seen everywhere on the runways, and there are so many ways you can incorporate it into your wardrobe. When I used to think of ruffles, I'd think about stuffy white blouses. Well, that's apparently not the case anymore. Just look at these pieces I managed to find:

1) Paul & Joe Ruffle One Shoulder Dress, $252.90
The perfect party dress. The color is so rich, and one-shoulder dresses are so "in".
2) Elastic Ruffle Waist Belt, $12.80
If you're not ready to commit, this ruffle belt is very subtle, yet everyone will notice.
3) Deux Lux Ruffle Bucket Bag, $68.00
A big ruffle bag takes any casual outfit to a different level.
4) Patent Ruffle Pumps, $22.99
Shoes are another great way to try just a touch of this trend.
5) Super Candy Ruffle Head Wrap, $28.00
If you're a total fashionista, ruffles on a head wrap is a total unexpected place to wear them.
6) Hawks by Geren Ford Ruffle Tank, $78.00
The easiest way to start; a black ruffled top. It will last you decades.

Read more »

I don't know if you guys remember my Secret Santa wishlist that I shared with you, but there was this black and gold clutch on there that I loved. Well, I did like the gifts that I received from my gifter, but I didn't get the clutch on there. I checked it out at the store and realized I didn't like it as much as I thought I did. But I did find seven that I fell in love with from different websites. Now if only I could choose just one...

1) Kettle Black Studded Clutch, $194.00
2) Patchwork Flap Clutch, $23.71
3) Dialog Xandra Wooden Clutch Bag, $71.10
4) Kimchi Blue Printed Clutch, $38.00
5) Linea Pelle Croco Dylan Folding Clutch, $276.00
6) Paul's Boutique Bow Clutch Bag, $32.38
7) Buckle Box Clutch, $39.50

♥ Celeste

Read more »

Apparently Mischa Barton has launched her own website, MischaBarton.com. Although she has been getting some digs for her past fashion mistakes, she has been a lot of people's favorite style icon for quite some time. So it's not a big surprise she has some of her own fashion lines.

Mischa has a section on her site labeled "fashion" featuring accessories from her new handbag and headband lines.


source: MischaBarton.com

Her handbag line is going to be available at Asos.com, and she has a few pictures of her ads for them up on her site. And for her headbands, she's working with designer Stacey Lapidu, and more pictures are also included.

So far I have to admit they're quite catching! Mischa currently only has those two posts up, but keep checking back since I'm sure she'll be updating frequently.

♥ Celeste

Read more »

I'm in need of a new handbag. As much as I love the one I'm using (a cream tote that I got for such a deal), I want something new! Not just because my old one is getting a little ragged on the bottom, but also because I want to try out one of the new handbag trends. Sure, totes will always safe, but you're only young once right?

My three favorite trends right now are the slouchy, framed, and messenger bags. To go with the number theme, I picked three for each category priced from steal-worthy to splurge-worthy. Even if they're just "trends" and might not last long, splurge if you know you'll love it and if you're getting it in a classic color.

Slouchy

• Bow Detail Hobo Bag, $34.65
• Angie & Lola Perforated Hobo Bag, $39.99
• Beckon Patch Pocket Drawstring Hobo, $117.90

I've had my eye on a slouchy bag for my next "it" bag, but there's honestly so many to choose from. If you told me to choose just one from the above, I probably couldn't do it! C'mon, how girly is that bow detailed hobo bag? It's like mixing bohemian with Victorian. And the second bag comes in such an amazing color; it would stand out perfectly against my dark clothes. Plus the Beckon bag comes in patent! I'll love anything that comes in patent.

Framed

• Melaine Canvas Tote, $14.99
• Rosetti Arlington Tote, $41.30
• Pleated Doctor Bag, $68.00

Framed bags are great if you need something more structured, especially for carrying around notebooks or folders. This definitely scores points for when you need to set it down on the floor and instead of crumbling up like most bags do, this will just stand up all by itself.

Messenger

• Fringe Messenger Bag, $29.99
• Giddy Up Bag, $39.50
• Fossil Castille Traveler Bag, $88.50

I would have never considered a messenger bag ever, but after seeing them on certain people I've come to like them quite a lot. I always thought of messenger bags as being those boring, practically-laptop-case-looking things, but I was very wrong. I would never do fringe boots, but the fringe messenger bag is a different story. It's just a small touch of it that makes it just right. And the other two come in such great colors, and don't come in those boxy shapes I always imagined.

I'll probably go bag shopping over for Black Friday! What fashionista doesn't love great sales?

♥ Celeste

Read more »