Christian Siriano has finally debuted his Spring 2011 collection last week. The shoes were inspired by different international cities. The shoes his models were wearing might or might not be toned down for retail (which has happened before), but hopefully they won't be since his designs are so unique. Luckily though they will be selling for under $50 which is a steal.

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Exciting news! Forever 21 will finally be doing a collaboration with a designer for a more affordable line. Brian Lichtenberg is a Los Angeles based fashion designer who happened to have designed Lady Gaga's caution tape outfit in her "Telephone" music video. Lichtenberg's line will be available August 13th at Forever 21. We are all definitely excited for this, especially since we're all big Forever 21 fans. It's about time they finally set this up!

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We all know how fast the line Cynthia Vincent did for Target ran out...make sure that doesn't happen with this collection! The Zac Posen for Target line came out April 25 and the collection is available both in stores and online. You can find the Zac Posen section on the Target website here.

My personal favorites are the Snap Tape Dress for $69.99, Two-Piece Ruffled Dress for $79.99, and the Floral Print Brocade Tie Dress for $74.99. Get them before the collection sells out!

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Nothing is more appropriate than a flirty floral dress this season. They can be dressed up or down, and are perfect easy pieces to wear when the weather is nice. Even though big floral patterns are fun, smaller patterns feel more casual/easy/and has that I-just-threw-this-one-yet-look-chic vibe. A perfect outfit would be one of these floral pieces with some brown wedges and a fedora. So comfortable and simple! The four we picked are some of our favorite (inexpensive) floral dresses.

1. Floral Bustier Dress, $19.80
2. Pins & Needles Puff Sleeve Chiffon Dress, $68.00
3. Ruffled Sweetheart Neckline Dress, $59.50
4. Spring Floral Ruffle Tunic, $19.80

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Aldo's Spring/Summer 2010 collection is out, with beautiful Jessica Stam featured in their ad campaign. The collection is filled with everything from pretty flats to essential, everyday pumps. My personal favorites are the nude pumps that go with everything and the updated, tribal gladiator sandals for warmer weather. Check out the "New Arrivals" section at Aldo Shoes for the full collection!

1. Ledwig, $50.00
Detailed flats in a punchy color are comfortable and perfect for spring. Pair them with a neutral outfit for a pop of color, or be a little bold and wear them with another contrasting color.

2. Lincks, $45.00
Tribal prints and designs have been seen on the runway everywhere. Pay tribute to this trend by sporting it on the ever popular gladiator sandal.

3. Jelen, $90.00
Strappy heels are still in, but make this trend fresh by going with this multi-colored one!

4. Withey, $80.00
A nude pump in a classic shape will never go out of style. Plus it will go with everything in your wardrobe.

5. Gettel, $100.00
If you're like me and have a terrible time walking heels, you'll be glad to know wedges are becoming more and more popular. Rock a super high heel easily in this pair!

6. Gutenson, $100.00
Like I said, straps, straps and more straps! Make it more interesting by getting it in this usually over-looked neutral shade.

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It is always tough finding trendy, pretty plus-size clothing. So it is hard not to share when you stumble upon a plus-size fashion retailer that stocks amazing clothes. Elvi has pretty cardigans in bright colors, embroided party tops, and much more, including jewelry. Luckily they ship outside of the UK so ordering online is simple and easy. Their website is also pain free to navigate. Elvi organizes their clothing by garments and you can also browse by outfits. The “shop by outfit” option allows you to view the clothing by occasion. And this is all set up by Elvi’s designers. From looking through their best sellers you are provided with options including a buttery leather jacket, an amazing winter coat, and the perfect little black dress. Elvi also has the perfect basics that every girl needs in her closet. The well-fitting tank tops and t-shirts come in a variety of bright colors, which are not overly expensive. But besides the basics, Elvi also stocks dresses and tops with gorgeous patterns. This shows that anyone can wear patterns and prints, not just stick thin girls. My personal favorite pieces are the Paprika Long Cardigan, the Stretch Crepe Trouser, and the Cowl Neck Jumper. Elvi has plus size fashion for sizes 16 and up so make sure to check them out!

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Like my previous post, this one also features on more splurge-worthy jewelry. Astley Clarke is a British luxury brand that centers around beautiful jewelry. Even from looking on the site for no more than ten seconds I was already enamored with many of the pieces. Astley Clarke has long-term investment, fine jewelry created by over 40 of the world’s leading designers. While their pieces are eye-catching, you won’t be finding any cheap costume jewelry on this site. They use only the most exquisite gemstones and precious metals. What’s also great is that they have a speedy delivery service, even if you are outside of the UK! Their jewelry is organized into three categories: contemporary jewelry, designer jewelry, and fine jewelry. Astley Clarke’s contemporary jewelry section is filled with stunning pieces that are stylish and trendy, yet still made beautifully. The designer jewelry section has pieces from designers from all over the world. And finally the fine jewelry section has the most luxurious pieces. All in all every single piece of jewelry on Astley Clarke.com are worthy of drooling over.

So it’s no wonder that Astley Clarke.com won the Walpole award for “Best Luxury Brand Online”. The Walpole awards took place on November 16, 2009 in London, which honors brands that have excelled in seven different categories including luxury, design, online, international, overseas and emerging talent. This year the awards were judged by Nathalie Massenet of Net-a-Porter, Brent Hoberman of MyDeco.com, Guy Salter of Walpole, Erik Wachtmeister of A Small World, Martin Bartle of 270 Degrees and Peter Fitzgerald of Google. Definitely a worthy panel of judges that all decided Astley Clarke.com fit the “Best Luxury Brand Online” category best, even with other admirable contestants like Mulberry and Louis Vuitton in the running.

Astley Clarke.com recently re-launched their website to better fit their company’s mission which is “to make Fine Designer Jewellery a more creative and imaginative category for a new generation of luxury consumer.” From looking through their jewellery pieces it’s not hard to see why they are worthy of recognition.

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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.

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Lauren Conrad's line for Kohl's is set to launch in October, but her collection, LC Lauren Conrad, is available online at Kohls.com. The pieces include some floaty, "Californian" tops, printed dresses, and jeans. While I wasn't expecting much from her line, I admit I do like the asymmetrical striped shirt and the blazer. What are your thoughts? (Also check out Lauren's fall style tips).














Photos courtesy of Nitrolicious.

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Apparently Forever 21 is coming out with another line called, "Cirque 21" and as cute as the clothes look...it doesn't really look anything different from what I would find at any regular Forever 21 store. But hey, I guess I can't really complain since I shop there all the time. What are your thoughts?

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I have to admit I wasn't a huge fan of the Jessica Simpson footwear collection when it first came out. We'll pass on the why, but recently I've seen many people wearing the collection, and I'm quite impressed. Of course I decided to check for myself (even though I have an exam in six hours). Although it consists of mainly heels, there are a few pretty sandals and flats in the mix. But the heels are definitely the shoes that shine. Here are my four favorites.

1) Celine Heels, $89.00
2) Hello Heels, $89.00
3) Delanco Heels, $89.00
4) Karson Heels, $79.00

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It's really windy today where I'm at, but overall such nice weather. It's warm, sunny, and it's the kind of weather that makes you want to run to the beach without thinking about those midterms that you have next week. I'm hoping the weather will continue to be nice since I've been itching to pull out this cute dress that I bought over spring break.

That's when I actually realized that I really don't have that many dresses! They're so easy to slip on, and perfect for spring/summer weather. But I'm really picky about dresses, which could be another factor on why I don't have a closet full of them. Fortunately, French Connection has an amazing variety of bold, detailed dresses that are so me.

1) Folkland Dress, $128.00
2) Wood Garden Dress, $248.00
3) Glass House Dress, $178.00
4) Java Gipsey Dress, $138.00

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I don't know how many of you have heard of the online store dubbed Bleu Dame. I actually first became exposed to it through one of the very first fashion blogs I used to read (unfortunately it's hardly updated now). They carry the "latest in designer inspired sunglasses, celebrity jewelry, gauze scarfs, hair accessories, bags & more." All of this for a budget friendly price.

I've been lusting after a pair of classic Ray Ban Wayfarers, but in a time like this I can't afford to shell out $140 for sunglasses. Luckily, Bleu Dame carrys very similar look-a-likes and in a variety of styles and colors (all for $12-$15).

And although they sell tops, I'd spend more time checking out their accessories. They have an amazing selection that'll be sure to catch the eye of every trend-conscious fashionista.

1) Foil Metallic Double Strand Braided Wrap Headband, $4.80
2) Luxe Medium Wispy Peacock Feather Earrings, $14.80
3) Black Heart 2-in-1 Mirror & Keychain, $8.80
4) Fringe Antique Print Scarf, $18.80
5) Louis Vuitton Inspired Millionaire Luxe Sunglasses, $5.00-24.80
6) Luxe Twisted Jeweled Metal & Suede Rope Bracelet, $20.80

I haven't ordered anything from here yet, but these are a few of my favorite pieces. Maybe I'll treat myself to some things off this list after I finish my midterms...

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Have you heard of the new line of shirts Forever 21 has launched? "Inspired by the cool kids of Tokyo and Paris, Shibuya Mon Amour is girly, street, punk and fashion. Live it, love it. Shibuya Mon Amour."

When I heard, I had to check them out since I love myself some graphic tees. They only have a few up at the moment, but the line consists of simple, animal illustrations on black, gray, and white tops. Another plus? The price tag; it ranges from $14 to $18. They're a great way to update your basic color tee, and would look fantastic paired with some trendy accessories.

The above three are my favorites:
1) Owl Cotton Tunic, $17.80
2) Leopard Face Tank, $13.80
3) Wing-Spread Eagle Tee, $15.80

What do you guys think of Shibuya Mon Amour?

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I love finding new stores to check out. I recently "bumped" into Tobi, which sells popular and some upcoming designer goodies. Of course this means that I can't afford more than half of what's on this site, but that doesn't mean I can't do a bit of "window" shopping. (You can indeed find things for a steal, such as sunglasses for as little as $35, but you've gotta browse).

1) Prairie Underground Mothette Dress, $253
I'm always on the look-out for unique pieces, and this dress is definitely one. The detail and nipping make the dress ultra-feminine, but in no way would you be uncomfortable in this cotton, jersey material.
2) Toywatch Plasteramic Watch with Crystals, $295
I'm not a big watch fan, but this is so clean and simple, I'm in love!
3) Allison Daniel Chinese Knot Ring, $28
I have an addiction to gold rings, and this one even comes with an adjustable band. It would be a perfect addition to spice up my cocktail ring collection.
4) Super Shield Sunglasses, $178
These glasses give you the perfect vintage feel, but keeps modern with some gold detailing. It would be amazing to have these on hand when the weather here gets confused and acts like it's spring already.
5) Joie Abby Tunic Top, $104
Embroidered tunics are perfect to slip on when you're feeling a bit lazy. They practically accessorize your outfit for you!
6) Sam Edelman Mariella Heels, $129
I adore Sam Edelman's designs, and this is no exception. Especially with it's subtle, but glamorous faux snakeskin straps.
7) Grey Ant Cardigan Sweater, $319
Although this is way too pricey to add to my cardigan collection (only nine so far), it's still worth a look with its decorative prints and stripes.

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I want to share a shoe purchase I made recently. It was a total impulse buy, which I normally don't do with things such as shoes. I was actually shopping around for some rainboots, but ended up with these seude, gray booties.

I stumbled upon them at Payless and I loved them! First off, I've been wanting a pair of boots in grey and the suede makes it easy to dress it up or down. And second they were surprisingly comfortable! I'm not a huge fan of heels since I'm terrible at walking in them, but these were a piece of a cake. But the best part about them was the price. They were only $19.99! (Though on their website they're knocked down even more to $17.99; the original cost is at $42.00).

Here's how they look like on the website. Cute no?

And here they are sitting on my desk. You can see they're a bit darker than what's portrayed on the website.

I'm wearing them in this one. I'm pairing it with dark, grey tights and black, knee-high socks I scrunched down. (Sorry about the picture quality. I had to brighten it up a thousand times on my computer).

They have these in black too. If you'd like to snag up a pair you'd better hurry! The stores had limited sizes, but they're available online.

♥ Celeste

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For some reason, I have this desire to add some trendy, fun pumps and booties to my shoe collection. I blame it on the weather. Since I'm no longer allowed to wear my favorite sandals without my toes falling off, I have got to get the next best thing. I mean, sure I have flats but I don't wear them often since they honestly don't keep my feet much warmer than sandals, and they pinch my wide feet. Plus what looks more streamlined with cute outerwear and blazers then a pair of sleek pumps/booties?

I was looting through Forever 21's merchandise the other afternoon and found some great footwear on their site. And what's even better is that I can try out all these trends for under $35! Let's take a look at some of these goodies, shall we?

1) Carson Ankle Boots, $29.80
2) Buckled Patent Platform Stiletto, $32.80
3) Tulip Faux Leather Ankle Boots, $26.80
4) Ellie Elastic Sling Pump, $24.80
5) Alicia Ankle Bootie, $28.80
6) Morgan Peeptoe Pump, $22.80

My favorites, that I've added to my wishlist, are #2 and #3. The heels aren't extremely high, they have pretty details, and can pretty much go with everything in my wardrobe. But I am definitely checking these all out when I get to go home for Thanksgiving. Some home-cooked food and then some shopping -- what can be better than that?

♥ Celeste

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Here are the next set of outfits I promised from my last post. This set are a couple I picked out from just browsing through the Forever 21 website. All three of these are great winter outfits that I can see myself in. The great thing is that they encompass some recent trends and blend them into the outfit so it's easy for us normal people to wear.

Look 1
These two outfits are actually the same, but I wanted to show you the different aspects of it. Here I wanted to showcase the fun, plaid scarf that updates the top part of the outfit. Sure the tights give it something extra, but the scarf gives it that finishing touch that brings everything together. I can't say this enough: stock up on scarfs this winter!

Scarf: Rainbow Houndstooth Scarf, $7.80

Look 2
This shows us a way to wear the very "in" outerwear -- the blazer. To keep it looking too stuffy, pair it with mustard colored tights and black booties.

Blazer: Katri Blazer, $29.80

Look 3
Cardigans are a favorite of mine. I literally want them in every color and design possible. Get a vintage look by wearing a printed tunic. To create a nice, hourglass shape, add a skinny belt in a different color.

Belt: Patent Skinny Belt, $5.80

Look 4
Doesn't this just make you want to go out and buy some white tights à la Blair Waldorf? I wouldn't have thought to consider white tights at all, but this makes me think twice! Paired with a navy peacoat, it looks so put together. Don't worry, you too can get the same look for super cheap!

Tights: Chancey Pointelle Tights, $6.80

Is it horrible I'm already anticipating Christmas? How can you not when stores are bringing out singing Santa Clauses and cafes are suddenly selling holiday drinks? And for most of you, Tuesday means a day off thanks to Veteran's Day. Any plans? :)

♥ Celeste

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I'm sure some of you guys have certain online store websites that you check frequently. For me, one of them is Forever 21. I usually go to their "new arrivals" section and see if there's anything that catches my eye and I'll put it on my wishlist. The main reason I do this is whenever I go shopping with my friends from home, we always start or end at Forever 21 (sometimes that's the same thing!). The store is pretty big and it can get pretty overwhelming. So, I always like having a few items in mind that I know I want to check out. It is so much easier this way, instead of being swayed by all the pretty things I can get my hand on (especially the accessory section).

And another reason I love checking out their site is that they have models on every page dressed up in unique outfits. Plus they even have a "Shop by Outfit" page just for that! I sometimes use this to find an item I wouldn't have bought, but reconsider after seeing it put on a model. It's basically another place I get some outfit inspiration if I need it.

I compiled some of my favorite looks and the links of some of the pieces in case you decide you have the sudden urge to open your wallet (and your closet!)
Look 1
I adore the plaid coat and the length is perfect. It's an easy, but still very stylish, outfit for braving the cold weather. Topped off with a chunky beret (featured in a previous post), a knit scarf, and a rhinestone pin, it's easy to be warm and fashionable at the same time.

Coat: Tartan DB Coat, $39.80.
Shoes: Alicia Ankle Boot, $28.80
Pin: Rhinestone Snowflake Pin, $7.80

Look 2
Although I would opt for darker boots, this is still very cute. I could definitely see myself wearing this on those chilly winter mornings, waking up for my 8 am classes. Comfort and style goes hand-in-hand in this look by making it all about layers in trendy colors.

Sweater: Elbow Patch Cardigan, $26.90
Top: Sequined Racerback Tank, $16.90
Shoes: Mattie Boots, $38.80
Hat: Blaine Beanie, $8.80

Look 3
This is an ideal way to put a new spin on a LBD that you probably already have! Pair some color tights in burgundy (or another fab shade) to look amazing and keep warm during those holiday parties. To make this feminine piece more tough add some booties and "rocker chic" accessories.

Gloves: Fingerless Long Lace Gloves, $5.80
Tights: Leah Tights, $4.90
Bracelet: Treasure Hinged Bracelet, $4.80; Gemstone Beaded Bracelet, $7.80
Comb: Mini Tiara Hair Comb, $7.80
Bag: Osiris Clutch, $19.80

Look 4
This look is a bit more conservative. But I like how, even though it's more structured, the skirt still keeps the outfit interesting. This is a great way of letting one piece be the center of attention by keeping the rest of your clothing in the same color.

Top: Eyelet Trim Sequin Top, $19.80
Skirt: Paisley Brocade Skirt, $22.80
Socks: Cabled Knee High Socks, $4.80
Bracelet: Interwoven Bracelet, $3.80; Knotted Snake Chain Bracelet, $4.80


I'll save the next set of outfits for tomorrow's post! Out of all these items, I definitely want to add the knee high socks to my wishlist. It's a chic way to keep your feet warm, perfect for pairing with boots, and can be scrunched down (like in Look 4) to give it a new spin. Are any of these items a new must-have for your winter wardrobe?

♥ Celeste

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So I don't know if you guys remember my previous post about finding these cheap boots at Charlotte Russe. I know that shopping online there is still fairly a new thing because I only just found this out two weeks ago! And in case it's new for you too, or you've never ordered from there before but are curious this post should be helpful for you!

These are the boots I ordered from them. Unfortunately, they must have just ran out of the product because I couldn't find it on their website anymore. But they have gotten in a few more new shoes, like the Suede Buckle Boots that come in three different colors and for only $34.99. Charlotte Russe's website is very easy to navigate. They separate their apparel into casual tops and dressy tops, dresses, denim and bottoms. Then they also have footwear, accessories, jewelry and sleepwear. And then those different categories each are separated into more sections, which make it very, very easy to find what you're looking for.

So, I ordered the boots I wanted (in black) for $39.99. They had free shipping (which is always amazing) so the total only came out to about $43.90. Which is what I would have paid if I bought them in the actual store anyways. That was a huge plus for me. They said that my package would arrive in 6-10 days, and it actually came when it said it was going to come. I was able to track my boots through the FedEx website, and got them promptly on the expected delivery date.

The boots themselves look exactly like they do on the website. This was a relief since they only have one angle you can look at them on the site (one of the minuses).

I ordered them a half size bigger (I'm usually a 7.5). I admit they weren't a perfect fit, and if they made these in half sizes it would make them a whole lot better. But I'll be wearing these boots with jeans or tights and socks anyways, so it wasn't a big disappointment. Yes, they aren't made of the best material, but I was expecting that. I was adjusting the three straps near the bottom and you can feel right away that the material is cheaper and it's not made with the highest attention to details. I put the straps on the very tightest hole, and actually had to puncture one of them myself since it wasn't punched through all the way.

But overall I'm pretty satisfied with my order. I knew what I was expecting. I basically wanted a pair of faux-leather, flat boots but everything I saw was well over $100. I'm sure these won't last me forever, but at least this is a way for me to try out this boot trend to see if I even like it without splurging. And from these I know that in the future (when I'm a little less broke) I can buy a pair of nice, black boots and be satisfied with them forever.

So if you'd love to add some boots to your wardrobe this season for cheap, Charlotte Russe is a great place to start looking. And not only for footwear, they have cute dresses, jewelry, and tops. It's definitely worth looking through!

♥ Celeste

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