Michelle Obama is known for her down-to-earth personality and love of affordable clothing. That’s exciting, but whenever she wears something from J. Crew or the Gap, the clothes immediately sell out. Check out my inexpensive takes on two of the First Lady’s looks:

• Dillard’s yellow dress, Arden B cardigan, Forever 21 studded belt

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You should have your holiday party look together by now, but on the off chance that you’re still looking for the finishing touch for your New Year’s Eve ensemble, let’s talk handbags. More specifically, kick-ass clutches. There are so many great options this year, why limit yourself to just one?

This season, StyleFeeders are loving shiny patent leather in eye-catching colors and embellished beauties in mother-of-pearl for bags that can serve as your single, stand-out accessory. A good, basic rule is that there should be an inverse relationship between the sheen of the fabric and the shape of the bag: the more dramatic the fabric, the simpler the shape. Keep jewelry and shoes more muted if you’re going for a statement bag.

For evening, you can’t go wrong with metallic. Pick a clutch in silver, gold, bronze or pewter, and for extra drama, pair with metallic heels. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to shine on this season’s holiday circuit; some of our favorite picks from stores like Ann Taylor Loft and Mark are under $30.

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