Fashion Friday: A Perfect Ten

Are you ready for the weekend? It's such a beautiful time of year and I'm excited that it's finally begun to cool down a smidgen here in Florida. Perfect for weekends outdoors! Today's Fashion Friday post is about showing you how to maximize your Monday to Friday wardrobe (whether you work from the office, work from home or are a stay-at-home mom who wants to look classy and a bit more dressed up during the week), using 10 key pieces.

Many women, while excited about shopping for the new season, feel excited but at the same time a bit panicked thinking they need to spend a fortune to look good. That is just not the case. Today's examples all come from one of my favorite stores, Banana Republic. I've loved them since I first graduated from college and began a career in corporate sales-it was a must in our office to be well put together and polished, but not necessary to wear a suit everyday thankfully. The pieces Banana Republic offers are always classic, timeless, on trend and elegant and will live in your closet for years to come not to mention their sizes are available in petite, regular and tall. Cheers to them for helping this tall gal find pants & jeans that are long enough!

I'm going to show you 10 pieces from their collection and how you can mix and match to create 12 great outfits for the workweek-that's over 2 weeks worth of outfits and the best part is that it will make getting dressed in the morning a breeze.  Let's have some fun, shall we?

You can find these items above here (available in more colors also): 

1  /  2  /  3  /  4  /  5  / 6  /  7  /  8  /  9  / 10

What makes these pieces work is you have just the right staple items and mix of solids and patterns. If you don't own a trench-buy one! They will never go out of style. A well-fitting skirt suit is a must, a fun heel to add interest for the season adds just the right amount of pop and a great fitting straight-leg jean in dark rinse provides a more dressy look. Add a colorful handbag to a more neutral palette for some wow factor.

If you're not a fan of mustard yellow, this royal blue belted ribbon print dress is a great substitute and you'll still achieve the same overall look in a color that's very of-the-moment but not so trendy that you won't want it in your closet a few years from now.

If you like the red tassel handbag shown in the neutral outfits, here's a close-up.

Here are the black leather booties shown in the outfits but not the perfect 10 board.

No outfit is complete without jewelry, here are some pieces I just adore.

You can find these jewelry pieces here (first two available in other great colors too):

1  /  2  /  3  /  4  

I'm kind of obsessed with this stretch skinny belt right now-how about you?

So, there you have it, 10 core pieces to build a fall wardrobe on. Don't stop at 12 outfits, the combinations and options are endless. One of the best ways to change an existing dress or top that comes with a matching wrap fabric belt or actual belt is to swap it for something totally different. Who says you have to wear it the way you purchased it? This has been one of the single best things I've done to update my wardrobe-add a handful of new belts in different colors, patterns and widths. 

Speaking of belts, you might remember this photo of me if you follow along on Facebook. I was playing around one Saturday morning as my hubby lovingly refers to as 'the fashion show' when I start brainstorming, pulling clothes out of my closet and trying new combinations. This black blouse came with a matching wrap belt in the same fabric to tie into a bow. I switched it up for a wide brown and black snakeskin double buckle belt with gold hardware for a new look.

Banana Republic has a sale going-Save 25% off your entire purchase (or 30% if you use your Banana Card, Gap Card or Old Navy Card). They are trying to raise $500,000 to help create jobs for the USA-isn't that great?! Hurry though, the sale is for just 2 days and ends 10/21/12. Use promo code : BRCREATE at checkout!

What's your favorite outfit or piece show here? Did you find this helpful in seeing your own existing wardrobe in a new way? Did you see some possibilities or creations you hadn't thought of before? I'd love to hear from you!

Pssst...Did you miss our past Fashion Friday posts? You can find them here: (1), (2), (3)

XO

*all images (except for the last one of me) and perfect 10 styled outfits via Banana Republic website

Fashion Friday: Shoe Dazzle Bogo Deal

Welcome to another Fashion Friday post! This is our third installment of the series and if you missed the first two you catch up by clicking here: (1) and (2) for some great fall finds on a budget.

I recently discovered a neat online shop called Shoe Dazzle which offers shoes as well as handbags, accessories and even clothing for great prices and there are no fees to join! Apparently, Kim Kardashian is their Chief Fashion Stylist and even though much of her super-edgy style is not for me, the website offers more classic pieces as well. The above image has four of my favorite items and since this season is all about color & fun, the idea of cobalt suede pumps caught my attention as well as more subdued tones like the hunter green croc handbag and the tan ostrich bag. Of course a black patent cap toe on textured quilted pump was another fabulous find.

The best part is Shoe Dazzle is running a huge BOGO sale right now! This means you can get two pairs of shoes/boots, two handbags, or one of each for just $39.95! The only trick with this site is if you see something in your size that you love, there's no lingering-you need to jump on it! They constantly add new styles and as soon as a style is out of stock, it's gone-they do not get that same items back in. I saw a handbag that I loved and while the bag is still offered, the color I wanted is no longer available. Thankfully I got two other great items which you can see below.

Upon finding the site, there was a quick sign up that took just 2 minutes and included a fun quiz where the shop determines your overall style by having your click on images you are drawn. I've done a few quizzes like this on other websites and they were somewhat accurate but not really bang on. I was interested to see how Shoe Dazzle would define my sense of style. Above is the style profile they came up with for me which was really accurate. It truly represents what I really enjoy wearing-classic, timeless and elegant pieces with a hint of prep and splash of glamour.

Even though the company bears the name 'Shoe' Dazzle, as I mentioned they offer some great handbags too. What I love about them is that while they aren't pricey investment bags, they allow you to have some fun for the season without breaking the bank to incorporate a hot color or trend. I always love a deep red for fall, animal print is a must (and considered to be a neutral), a black ladylike shoulder bag that resembles the quilted Chanel version with link straps , deep teal is a popular new color for fall and the shapes of bags are very structured vs. previous styles such as the hobo bag.

Onto more shoes and 2 pairs that I ordered a couple days ago for just $39.95! As you can tell, I'm loving the cap-toe style-it's a great way of adding some interest and utilizing two colors that work well with an outfit. Let's face it, cream or white worn with black are staples of a classic wardrobe-perfect for every classy woman. Even though I live in flats as much as I can-when visiting clients and on date nights with hubby or a night on the town with the girls, I just love a great pump. I'm really liking the thin ankle strap details on shoes right now and that cream and hot pink is just so cute! I debated between that pair and the black cap toe pair that I purchased.

 I have never owned a pair of booties before-I've always been a tall boot kind of gal. Since I have a great pair of black leather tall heeled boots already, this year I wanted to get something a bit more edgy and I simply love peep-toes for fall! These black suede booties have a zipper with tassel detail on the back and a scoop front which I just know will look adorable with my colorful and dark denim skinny jeans. Last but not least, the two-tone ankle strap pointed-toe flats are another great option vs. the standard rounded toe ballet flat.

For ALL of my favorite selections above and MANY more, you can visit the Shoe Dazzle website. I am not sure how long the buy one, get one free sale will run so I recommend stopping by today! 

Did you see a new style that you hadn't considered before? Which of my favorites shown was your favorite too?

Happy Weekend!

XO

*Images boards are all mine created with items from Shoe Dazzle.

Fashion Friday: Dorothy Perkins for Fall

(1) Gray Peplum Dress / (2) Black Heels / (3) Leopard Handbag / (4) Burgundy Coat

(5) Taupe Sequin Shoulder Top / (6) Lace Detail Handbag / (7) Purple Lace Dress / (8) Burgundy Blouse

(9) Houndstooth Bag / (10) Trumpet Skirt / (11) Peplum Polka dot top / (12) Snakeskin Clutch

(13) Jacquard Bow Dress

Several months ago I discovered a great online shop called Dorothy Perkins. They offer a wide range of fashion-everything from skinny jeans, dresses for the office, structured handbags to ballet flats and more. They are the perfect place to find great fashion for awesome prices. Most of the items I come across are under $50. Sadly, many of the pieces I planned to share with you are currently out of stock-that is how popular they are! I didn't want to get you all excited about a great find only to discover that it's not available. 

Above are some of my favorite picks for fall. You've probably already figured out that I love animal prints, especially crocodile, snakeskin and leopard print, as you could see in our very first Fashion Friday post last week. They're a great way to add some texture to an outfit, I love the one above with the tassel details that we're seeing on both bags and shoes. Another way is by incorporating bits of lace as seen in the dress and handbag above. This fall is much more exciting than past seasons because we have so much available to us-it would almost seem that anything goes! While the colors above are more dark and subdued, bright pops of color are in this year and I'll be sharing some fun examples of it in upcoming posts. 

A great coat is a must-have for fall and since it's something you'll be wearing often (depending on where you live), introducing a new style or color it's a nice way to freshen your wardrobe-I love the burgundy/bordeaux tones for fall and instead of black, gray or camel, why not try something new? Handbags are another investment piece for the season. I usually invest in one pricier quality handbag that has a more classic shape and isn't overly trendy for the season and then add some lesser expensive but fun stylish varieties-a new clutch, structured handbag and crossbody bag are some essentials this fall.

Flirty, feminine details that are still modest exist through peplum tops, silky blouses, ruffle details, sequin and of course lace. While menswear has had an influence on women's wear this season, remember that classy women always look ladylike no matter what the current trend is, so add your own twist such as a great belt to define the waist of a dress or coat or an elegant cap-toed pair of heels (it's so very pretty woman!)

The very last dress #13 was just reduced from $89 to just $39!! They currently have every size available and it's such a great dress for several body types as it's not too form fitting. Their most popular items sell out quickly, so don't delay if you see something here you like. If you sign up for their newsletter, they will give you 15% off of your purchase not to mention free shipping if you spend $75 or more. 

*In case you're wondering...let me take a moment to say that I'm not compensated by Dorothy Perkins in any way for sharing these fashion finds or mentioning their company, they simply offer great items on a budget that I personally like and wanted to share with you all in case you hadn't heard of them. :)

What are your favorites here? What styles are you loving most this season?

XO





*fashion boards created by me. 

Ready for Fall!

For the past three weeks now I've been craving everything 'fall', how about you? Its official arrival date may still be two days away but it cannot come quickly enough! Maybe it's because of all the fun fall fashion I see in the store windows, the scent of cinnamon brooms that catch my attention every time I go to the grocery store or perhaps it's because Florida has had one long, one very hot summer and I'm just ready for a change, any change that doesn't involve hot, sticky weather. Nothing would make me happier than being able to open every window in our house again after 6 months for a fresh breeze.

Growing up in the north, fall has always been my favorite time of year. It's not quite cold enough to require being bundled up but it has cozy written all over it. I love long walks in the country and seeing all of the stunning colorful leaves changing, hearing dried leaves crunching under my feet as I walked hot cocoa in hand. I love the smell of freshly mulled apple cider on the stove and pumpkin pie in the oven. The very thought of curling up in comfy pajamas with tea and a good book sheltered from the evening's crisp air makes me giddy inside. I'm a sucker for a roaring fire be it a bonfire or campfire at the cottage or via a fireplace on the chillier evenings. I really enjoy picking apples at the orchard and hunting down just the right pumpkins to display on our porch. These things speak fall to me.

The fall temps here will come in about 2 months so until then I'll just keep wearing dresses, shorts, flip flops and sporting white because in Florida it's not a faux-pas. ;)

The colors, the coziness, the warmth and of course the seasonal sweet treats! These images embody fall for me.

I've made the mini pumpkin candles before, going to try these next!

Pumpkin Tarts. Um, yes please!!!

I love beautiful, natural wreaths and this barn door reminds me of my country walks.

This outfit has ME written all over it, blazers are a must for my wardrobe. I've always been a huge fan of them and have a growing collection. I love the classic and polished look that a blazer brings to jeans and a crisp shirt or tee pulling everything together. They are a practical staple for any classy woman!

What would fall be without pumpkins and colorful  mums?

If these don't say harvest treat, I don't know what does! I love the rustic twigs!!

I've always been fascinated by the beauty that is indian corn.

Boots, boots, boots! Oh, how my feet have missed you!

I've slowly begun decorating for fall even though it's 90 degrees most days. Oh, and THIS simple decor arrangement is set up on my table right now. You might remember it from last year's fall decorating. 

What are YOUR favorite things about fall?

*all images {via}

Top Posts of 2009

Even though my focus on 2010 is in full swing, I thought it would be fun to share with you and reflect a little on what YOU all viewed the most last year here at Classy and Fabulous.

Our Top 5 Posts (by pageview):


1. Wow for Walmart Decor (Under $100)

2. Cupcake Cuteness: Baking Ideas and Fun Finds

3. Monogram Monday

4. Fall Fashion Trends 2009

5. How to Dress Classy on a Budget

Top 10 Countries that Read This Blog

1. United States
2. Canada
3. United Kingdom
4. Australia
5. Russia
6. India
7. Philippines
8. Italy
9. Malaysia
10. Singapore

We currently have readers in 85 countries. I'm so glad you all found me and I am thrilled to have so many new 'friends' in the blogosphere!

What was your favorite post last year? Also, feel free to leave a link to the most viewed post on YOUR blog last year so we can all check it out! :)

Secrets to Fall Fashion for Less!

Source

I'm loving all of the gorgeous fall fashion trends this year, there really is something for everyone. As much as I'd love to go out and buy a ton of cool-weather goodies, the budget simply does not allow for it, as is the case for many I know.  Instead of thinking about all the fun stuff I'd be missing out on, I decided to find a budget-friendly resource and have I found just the thing! Since my latest blog poll voter asked for more fashion posts, I wanted today's post to share just that. Ask and you shall receive!

Last month I discovered a great blog which focuses specifically on whole outfits that are under $100 and include accessories too! I am so glad I found it and I've been having so much fun looking at pieces that I adore, but are on the cheap. Without further ado, here is my favorite fashion blog. Awesome, right? Dana does a great job assembling outfits seen on celebrities for a fraction of the cost as well as costume inspiration and specific items for under $50, etc..

HERE ARE SOME EXAMPLES:

Jennifer Aniston's Look for $96.78

Image Source

Cindy Crawford's Look for $91.30

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5 Under $50: Ruffle Shoes

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Victoria Beckham's Style for $99.27

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5 Under $50: Banana Republic

Image Source

Every day I'm continually amazed by what Dana is able to find. She also does a lot of reader requests such as those that are going to a highschool reunion and haven't a clue what to wear. If you write her, she'll suggest something great for you.

Do you adore a great handbag? I have another little secret website that I've fallen in love with, it features the red bag at the top of this post. It's called HandBagHeaven and ALL handbags start at $15 and are no more than $75!

If you missed it, here is my last post on 2009 Fall Fashion Trends!

How about you? What are your favorite fashion trends? What is your latest and greatest purchase? Leave a comment and share it with us!

Fall Fashion Trends 2009

I don't know about you, but as much as I love summer I'm always ready for the transition to fall. For me, the beautiful autumn fashion and the kids heading back to school is what signifies a new season. I'm ready to hang a colorful wreath on the door, pull sweaters out of storage and get cozy with some hot apple cider.

In Florida there isn't much in the way of seasonal changes, so fashion is a fun way for me to perk things up. Our seasons here are very delayed and fall weather doesn't typically begin until the beginning of December in terms of temperature.

This season, there is some exciting style to be worn, a trip back to the 80's some might say, but with a modern flair. You will notice that some trends from spring/summer '09 have continued into the fall season, but with a new twist. It is said that the runway has been inspired by the recession. Designers have created strong, powerful and bold statements that empower women and make them feel confident in such a turbulent time.

Here are 10 Trends for 2009 Fall Fashion:

1. Strong Shoulders- Very reminiscent of the 80's era, big shoulders are back! This is to signify that women are powerful and strong at a time when the economy is unpredictable. Look for his style in the form of coats, tops and dresses. Also look for dresses that highlight the shoulders in the form of asymmetry and halter. Cinched waists further enhance the look of a broader shoulder.

Best Bet: Buy a fall jacket, coat or blazer that will be worn somewhat frequently to get your money's worth. You can stay conservative in black or go bold with one of the hottest new colors of the season (see below for colors).

2. 80's Rocker Chic-This one has been around for a little while now with patent leather, zippers, buckles, and an overall look of rock n' roll. Again, this showcases women as powerful yet sexy and provides an overall tough look. This was seen in Spring/Summer fashion as well where softness, lace, ruffles and frills were balanced with some leather, ripped jeans and punk edge.

Best Bet: If you like the style but you are more soft and feminine in nature, start small. Maybe you incorporate a belt, or a handbag with edge or a new pair of shoes. I just bought a pair of gladiator wedge shoes that add a bit of height but are trimmed with patent leather, multiple buckles and add just enough toughness to my more classic and feminine style.

3. Sparkle & Shine-We've seen metallic colors making a big comeback, and they are no longer just reserved for evening wear. Many daytime options have become not only available but acceptable. Look for such metallic colors as copper and gun metal. Sequence has come back in a big way also. It symbolizes luxury and opulence.

Best Bet: Shoes are a great way to add a metallic splash to your wardrobe, whether they are flats or pumps. Jewelry is another go-to accessory as well as a pretty blouse or a beautiful scarf.

4.Leather Everywhere- Everything from gloves and shoes to pants, jackets and dresses will be a hit this season. If this doesn't say 'Rocker', I don't know what does. Many items will further be embellished by metal studs for a tough look.

Best Bet: If you're not as experimental, stick to what you know-gloves, shoes, boots, jackets and handbags. Simply experiment with a different color style of leather.

5. Short Boots/Thigh High Boots-We've seen short booties for a little while now, so this is no surprise. They were re-introduced in the form of sandal booties and they are a trend that will continue. On the opposite end of the spectrum you'll see thigh high boots. The one thought that comes to my mind is Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman. These are not only fashionable but functional as the temperature drops. I would say this in an investment for the extremely style conscious.

Best Bet: If you're looking to buy fall fashion right now, invest in short boots, they will take you through the next few months and you can always wear them indoors. Thigh high boots are not necessary this early in the game.

6. Cinch that Waist!- If you haven't played around with belts, now is a good time. You can wear either skinny or wide belts depending on your outfit. Skinny belts are great for the office with buttoned cardigans or tailored dresses that meet the knee. Basically anything a bit more delicate and fitted can handle a skinny belt. Wide belts are great over a blazer or suit, a cotton or heavier weight dress, a bulkier coat, or simply to wear with a fun top and a pair of jeans. Belts with multiple buckles or embelishments are also very of the moment. Belts really add a lot to an outfit, they are a great accessory not to be without!

Best Bet: Buy one great wide statement belt in black. Since you'll want to get a lot of mileage out of it, be sure it is leather or well constructed. Also, invest in one skinny belt for the ever-popular cardigans this year. Select a belt that coordinates well with the cardigans/dresses you purchase. Go for something other than black.

7. 'Pop' of Color-As earlier mentioned, the rocker gun metals, metallics and new fun color copper are very popular this season. Other notable colors include elegant purples, deep reds and other jewel tones like rich teals. Purple is the color of royalty and it will be everywhere this season! If you buy one new thing this season, make sure it is in a eye-popping hue of purple. Orange and other citrus colors are notable for this fall season also. Orange outerwear is all the rage, so if you want to draw some attention, search for an awesome orange coat!

Best Bet: Buy at least one metallic piece and another in purple. Invest in a statement dress in purple or that contains purple such as a fashion forward stripe, a really great handbag/ clutch, or a killer pair of shoes! You can't go wrong!

8. Under Cover-Here's a new trend for the '09 season that we really haven't seen yet-black under color. What does this mean? Wear a colorful dress with a black turtleneck underneath and black opaque nylons or tights with boots. Basically, you are balancing out the color and adding depth with the black. With the popularity of leggings, this look is not only easily achievable but also extremely functional as the weather cools down and the need for layering begins.

Best Bet: Take a couple of your long tops or dresses and don't stop at just wearing leggings under them but especially if the top is more of a tank-top style or a sleeveless style, add a black turtleneck underneath and you're ready to go!

9. Classic Cardigans-In the spirit of layering up to keep warm, cardigans will not only keep your warm but are an important style trend this fall. They come in all shapes and sizes, long dress-like cardgans. Some button up, others tie up. You can look for short, cropped styles or long draped, casual versions. Our model below is none other than the fashion-forward First Lady herself, Michelle Obama.

Best Bet: Have both a long and short cropped cardigan on hand for versatility. A short cropped black cardigan and a long medium gray are staples for your wardrobe.

10. Ruffle Some Feathers!- Ruffles were one of the most notable trends among Spring '09 fashion. This trend is carried forward with bulkier materials and is showing up in a lot of accessories such as handbags, scarves and even shoes! Ruffles are so feminine and they really add a lady-like appeal and softness that balances out many of the more hard lines and toughness of the 80's inspiration.



Best Bet: For the office or formal occasions, a ruffled blouse is a great item to have in your closet. You can wear it alone, or under a belted cardigan as shown above. Alternatively a ruffled skirt or dress from the waist done is another wonderful piece.

Many of the same elements are still very of the moment. So, no need to get rid of what you already own. Simply, add a few new pieces into your wardrobe to amplify your style. Ballet flats are still very in and they are oh-so-comfortable, another noteworthy style is the asymmetrical look or single shoulder dresses and tops. Again, it's all about the shoulders so this is a look that is also here to stay for fall.

If you're on a budget, don't go all out and drop loads of money on one statement piece. Instead, check out stores like Target, Discount Department Stores, Charlotte Russe, Forever 21, H&M and Aldo shoes. They'll have many items to choose from at very affordable prices.

I love color and I've been inspired by the sea of purple in the stores the past few months. Last fall I bought a purple faux crocodile skin fold-over clutch for a steal and I'm loving it even more this season. It is by far one of my favorite fall items and I only paid $13 for it. Proof that you can be frugal and fashionable!

What are your favorite 2009 fall fashion trends? Is there an item you have your eye on? Have you picked up some great finds already? Share with us and feel free to send a link to photos too! Also, check out my other post if you are looking to select a few trends but also dress classy on a budget.

Enjoy summer's final long weekend,