A great jean is a necessity for every wardrobe. Dressed up, dressed down, just hanging out or going out, putting on the perfect fitting pair of jeans can add to your confidence (and make your butt look even better)!

Even though Victoria’s Secret PINK only launched their denim line in June 2009, they have a range, quality, and style based on years of experience and development! With a style for every body shape and occasion, and great prices, everyday style becomes effortless with these jeans.

Try a pair of comfy, casual, trendy boyfriend jeans for an effortlessly cool look. Victoria’s Secret PINK has done all the work of breaking them in, you just have to wear them!

With the perfect amount of distressing, these flare jeans are great to throw on for an easy, downtown look. These will be your ultimate go-to jeans!

Nothing is more useful than a great skinny jean. Pair casually with flats, or with heels for an instantly chic and sexy look for a night out. The great dark wash is also flattering on everyone!

Another classic wardrobe addition: You can never go wrong with a great bootcut jean.

Try the skinny ankle-zip jean; the zipper details add an extra something special to your already stylish look!

These harnesses can be worn over barely-there tops or body-conscious dresses. For a more interesting look, try one layered over flowing dresses and baggy t-shirts.

Edgy, feminine, understated, avant-garde harnesses can be anything you dress them up to be.

From Top-Bottom:Girl Tuesday, Leviticus for Babooshka boutique, Fabulize,AudraJean.

You worked hard to get into college, and picked your school because you’re proud to go there! While you want to show your school spirit and accomplishments, you can’t really pull that off and still get the look you want with the oversized grey sweats sold in the campus bookstore…

That’s where Victoria’s Secret PINK comes in! They know that you want to acknowledge your school spirit while still showing your sense of style and personality, so they’ve launched their cool and cute Collegiate Collection. With 59 colleges and universities already represented, and two more being added in October, they already have a great range. You can see all schools in the collection here. If your school is not currently included in the collection, you can nominate your school to be added.

Keep warm and stay stylish in a timeless hoodie — no shapeless sweats here!

Show your support at the next football game, while still getting the attention of the football players with a great mesh jersey:

Work out in style while you show school spirit with some comfy, flattering yoga pants.

There’s nothing more classic and casual than a great logo tee:

Have no fear of going to breakfast in your pjs with these super-cute sleep shorts:

At the warmer end of the spectrum, you’ll find citrines, orange garnets (also known as spessartites) and gorgeous orange sapphires. Fulfill your heart’s desire with a sun-kissed orange sapphire heart pendant that is as affordable as it is stunning.

Should you want to highlight the earthier shades of the palette, look for smokey quartz, tiger’s eye or mocha-colored diamonds. My suggestion: a fabulously regal smokey quartz, citrine and diamond cocktail ring that is sure to showcase your flair for high fashion.

Finally, if you want to infuse your wardrobe with a hint of green, try olive quartz or peridot jewelry designs. These delicate briolette-cut peridot dangle earrings are the perfect choice for a subtle splash of color.

Brace yourselves, though, because the fall 2009 jewelry trends don’t end with these classic fall colors. Oh, may the jewelry gods have mercy on your stylish souls: there is much, much more to come. Stay tuned for trend #2…

I found these printed socks and tights on Etsy the other day. I love the photography used to show off the products, they have a real sense of whimsy, like Alice in Wonderland.

They are from Tattoo Socks. Everything is hand printed and they come in a variety of skin tone shades:

Personally, I would go with the Alice feeling and get these beauties in white. The octopus and butterfly designs are my favorites.

But don’t let such razzle-dazzle blind you into thinking you must spend millions ($5,000,000 to be exact) to sparkle in the spotlight. Listed below are a few stunning and way more affordable black diamond jewelry alternatives that are sure to enhance your look.

Start off your black diamond collection (because it will turn into one before you know it) with a pair of classic princess-cut black diamond studs. They are understated yet refined, so you can wear them from business hour to happy hour, to late-night delight.

On those hot nights out on the town, complement your little black dress with an eye-catching black diamond fashion ring: a unique design that will reflect even the dimmest evening lights from every angle.

If you are into heart designs, treat yourself to a truly exquisite black and white diamond heart pendant. This piece is one you will treasure forever, so it’s well worth the indulgence.

And if you are willing to splurge on something spectacular – and I mean SPECTACULAR – indulge in a show-stopping 1-carat black and white diamond ring. This stunner will have you reveling in your own fabulousness (and make lots and lots of women develop ring envy).

So be bold when it comes to your jewelry wardrobe: step out of the box and dare to wear black diamonds. They’re hot. They’re in. They’re a girl’s new best friend.

Jennifer Aniston looks a-a-a-mazing here. Cool and comfortable; chic and elegant. I never thought khakis could look so streamlined!

Steal her look for less:

Shoes: Bettye Muller “Katy” Grey Espadrille Wedge at Shirise

Belt: Women’s AE Square Basic Leather Belt – American Eagle Outfitters

Tank: Banana Republic Petite pima cotton tank: sleeveless tops OR Ann Taylor Modal/Cotton Ribbed Tank with Satin Trim

Khakis:  dELiAs Whitney Low-Rise Chino OR Vena Cava boyfriend khakis

Have you heard of Modcloth? If not, it’s one of my new favorite online retailers. The prices can be a bit pricey, but there is no better place to find vintage-inspired clothing and accessories. Just look at those shoes! They are to die for, no?

Modcloth is perfect if you like feminine, vintage clothing, and if you need a cocktail or party dress, you should definitely check them out.

Items above: Chamomile yellow dress ; Tavern on the Green dress ; Potpourri blue print dress ; Violet bow blouse ; Carriage Ride blue wedges ; Poker Face green heels ; Cocoa Beach yellow wedges

My favorite new summer shoes include a bevy of adorable, colorful sandals; platform heels and bright-colored flats. All–yes all–of these shoes are under $60 and all are available to purchase online.

A few surefire picks: the gray Havaianas slingbacks, which are perfect for vacation if you are going to be doing a lot of walking or shopping. Also, these $20 Ecote triple-button t-strap sandals from Urban Outfitters are a no-brainer steal.

What are your favorite shoes for summer?

Shoes above: Target blue print platforms, Target pewter ruffle wedge sandals, Target blue pointed flats, Forever 21 brown platforms, NYLA beaded medallion sandals, Urban Outfitters ecote triple-button sandals, Havaianas slingback sandals, Urban Outfitters Kimchi & Blue mint flats, Pierre Dumas beaded sandals, Pierre Dumas white t-strap sandals, Aerosoles gray and brown wedges

Here are my favorite pieces from the line:

From right to left, clockwise:

Strapless floral dress ; Blue floral skirt ; Orange & purple strapless tank ; Colorblock skirt ; Abstract brush graphic tunic ; Zigzag print dress

Some rules for curvier ladies to remember when picking out new clothing:

• Nothing baggy or the wrong size. Lots of women think they are a bigger size than they actually are. Get a measuring tape and measure in the comfort of your own bathroom, then look up a size chart at the store you plan to shop at. Keep in mind that the size that the chart says is fluid and not binding. Every designer and manufacturer is different. If you are a 12 at one store, you might be an 8 or a 14 at two others.
• Wear belts when possible.
• Don’t buy trapeze tops–they are rarely flattering on anyone.
• Don’t be afraid of skirts and dresses. Keep the length decent (i.e. no goodies showing), but show a little leg with a flouncy mini: the most flattering option.
• Lots of curvier women think that black is their most flattering color for clothing, but please! Try a print. See the zigzag dress above? A print distracts from trouble spots, whereas black can–and does–emphasize them on occasion.
• If you are a little shy about going sleeveless, a little cardigan or jacket would look great with any of the outfits/pieces above.

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

• Target Merona argyle sweater, Urban Outfitters blue skirt, Forever 21 faux pearl necklace, Nine West blue faux-croc heels

Stay tuned for more!

Yesterday I visited my local H&M and tried on one of the Matthew Williamson dresses. I loved it, but thought it was slightly pricey for H&M–$80! What do you think of the dress?

The best thing about spring and summer is how you can transform an outfit with simple, stylish accessories.

Check out how I created two separate looks: one funky and feminine and the other more chic and sophisticated.

Which look do you like better? How would you style this strapless purple dress from Target?

Funky & Feminine : Forever 21 linen cardigan, Forever 21 printed scarf, Payless patent pink wedges, Forever 21 necklace

Chic & Sophisticated : Forever 21 coral earrings, Target Mossimo gladiator platforms, Forever 21 belt, Forever 21 vest

There’s a variety of ways to wear the kimono, depending on your body type. The top and dress below are more traditional interpretations, and would be flattering on almost anyone.

I particularly love the silk top by Single on the left. The color/pattern combo is a little out there, but I think I would wear this throughout the summer with jeans, wedges and a set of bangles. It puts me in a Saturday-afternoon-shopping-with-the-girls state of mind.

These dresses are a slinky, sophisticated take on the kimono. Because they don’t feature the traditional obi-style belt that creates beautiful waist definition, they may not work as well on curvier ladies, but could work great to create the illusion of curves on more boyish frames.

I’m kind of digging the over-the-top sleeves on this tunic, but I think the bold pattern pushes it a little too far toward the “dramatic” end of the spectrum for my tastes.

But I’m loving this subtle interpretation by Celine. The subdued Asian-inspired cherry print and understated belt make this dress a must-have for summer, even without kimono sleeves. If you’ve got beautiful biceps, I can’t think of a better way to show them off!

Will you be trying out a kimono-inspired piece this season?

Luckily, you’re not restricted to buying just one patterned piece, but I’m curious…If you could only buy one printed item for spring, what would it be?

A fabulous floral?

A wearable watercolor?

Modern graphic?

Or classic black and white?

What happens when the friend/relative doesn’t drop hints and they are the type of person who isn’t into the latest American Idol Winner CD or fuzzy slippers as gifts? You know, the loved one who walks to the beat of their own drummer and is of the creative mindset. What do you do then?

I have been wandering the Internet for the past few weeks looking for inexpensive gift ideas for those types of people because, well, being a photographer, I am one myself. So let’s see if I can help you out a bit.

For The Artist:

These colored pencils are made out of recycled Chinese newspapers! The come in their own tube for storage and are fun, as well as functional. They are also only $10!

This book offering tips on how to be creative when making cards and envelopes for postal mail is perfect for those artists who love to keep in touch with faraway friends. It has 25 different creative projects for those who love to write snailmail and is only $20.95!

For The Writer:

Every writer, professional or someone who just loves to journal, loves to have a place to write down all their thoughts and ideas. Why not get them a classy blank book to capture all the ideas running around in their heads? This blank, unlined, moleskine journal is only $15.00.

This book is for the writer who wants to publish their own books, zines, graphic novels, or any other form of book on their own. It is full of ideas and resources to get the writer published and it is only $21.95.

For The Photographer:

The Holga camera is perfect for that photographer in your life who loves to be artistic with their images. The Holga has light leaks and sometimes even double exposes the film which can create interesting images during printing. Holgas are perfect for black/white medium format (120) film and, as I own one myself, I highly recommend them. Your best bet for buying on cheaply is to go to a site like Calumet Photo where you can buy one for only $32.99.

For The Budding Fashion Designer:

If your loved one is a fashion designer in the making, or just a lover of fashion, this is the book for them. This book is full of sketches, designs, and drawings from designers like Betsey Johnson and Karl Lagerfeld, to name a few. This $40 buy will definitely inspire the fashion lover in your life to get sketching those ideas for fashion out on paper.

This origami kit comes with instructions and folding papers so the fashionista in your life can fold origami clothing and accessories to their heart’s content. The best part? You can gift this for only $12!

For The Creative Traveler:

This guidebook is perfect for the traveler that likes to go off the beaten path and avoid the cliché tourist sites when in NYC. Full of color photos, the book explains unusual destinations, as well as how to get there. Perfect for the traveler that likes to really get to know a place that they visit and for $22.95, it won’t break the bank.

This journal is perfect for that creative traveler that wants to record their wanderings in the world. It has plenty of room for writing, doodling, making lists, and features built-in envelopes to stash ticket stubs and other items from your travels. Priced at $27, it comes with a pouch to protect the journal.

These are just a few of the finds I have made recently online that would make great gifts for those hard-to-buy-for creative people in your life. Have fun shopping and try not to get buried under stress this holiday season!

1. Wine glasses

They’re the perfect gift for just about anyone, whether they drink wine or not. Sparkling cider or white wine alike can be enjoyed in this set of stemless Chardonnay tumblers (just $15)!

2. A Cozy Winter Accessory

Berets are totally on trend this winter, so I don’t think anyone on your gift list would be mad to unwrap this 100% cashmere topper. It comes in black and chocolate brown as well. At $25, you might wanna treat yourself to one as well.

3. Something Chic for the Home

Candles are always a great idea – which is why most people have one or two collecting dust in their homes already. I recommend a candle holder instead. It doesn’t burn away, so it’s automatically a better investment. This crystal, square-cut Vera Wang holder is a steal at $15.

4. Small jewelry pieces

Baubles are a thoughtful gift for the fashionista in your life. Just be sure you know their taste well. Your boho friend, for example, would totally dig this wooden bangle by Kenneth Kay Lane – and you’ll dig that it’s $20 on Bluefly, not $50 which is what it retails for.

If your budget’s a lil’ higher than $25, there’s a plethora tres chic wallets & cosmetics clutches for under $50. Take a look, and happy shopping!

What do I wear you ask? I go for comfort, creating a dressy casual, modern look.

I may wear a shirt like this one:

With these jeans:

And these very funky, cool, heels:

Then, add accessories, the finishing touches. Something like this very cool necklace:

This simple, yet pretty, bracelet:

This classic looking clutch:

And maybe a ring like this one:

Now I’m ready for anything the night might throw at me! What do you like to wear for a night on the town?

You can get a lot of style for very little cash, and thank god, because with the current economy, thinking like a frugal fashionista is a big plus.

Check out these 14 hip and stylish winter coats.

My new shopping mantra is no more black, but I couldn’t resist this luxe coat from Target (1). Love the detachable fur collar. This classy wool jacket is also from Target, and is more appropriate for an evening date or for a working woman (2).

A bit more pricey, but exceedingly stylish is this mustard yellow bow-accented coat from J. Crew (3).

For a pop of color, this Forever 21 coat is great, but not too practical. I’d wear this for a date or with an evening dress (4).

DELiAs actually has exceptional coats this year, if you do a bit of digging. The military coat buttons on this navy jacket are what really drew me to it (5).

If you want a more feminine silhouette, try this pink Isaac Mizrahi for Target jacket (6).

This bright, bold fuschia jacket from DELiAs is warm and practical, but not boring (7).

Forever 21 has this genius, vintage-looking faux leopard coat. I’d wear this with very quirky and vintage-inspired pieces: dark/gray tights, a bright-colored dress and maybe high-heeled oxfords? (8). This shorter jacket from Forever 21 is good for a boots/jeans/scarf day, when it’s too cold to dress up (9).

ASOS’s Kylie Minogue-inspired jacket looks almost like a dress. So pretty (10).

I love plaid, and Nordstrom’s bomber jacket with a great black, gray and white print is chic and practical (11).

My absolute favorite coat of the bunch is this bold plaid version by Forever 21 (12).

The most inventive style here is this plaid coat from Urban Outfitters: see the drawstring hemline? (13).

Last but not least is this classic and sexy maroon coat from Urban Outfitters (14).

Take your pick: which coat is your favorite?

For example, I’ll bet you didn’t know that you could get up-to-the second updates of Style.com directly to your iPhone without visiting their site, or that you could see Chanel’s entire collection in a few seconds. Below, I’ll go through my discovery of some iPhone fashion features, illustrated by images directly from my iPhone.

Style.com iPhone App (Free)

Style.com’s iPhone application is hands down the best iPhone application I have ever used… especially for fashion enthusiasts and bloggers. You can get up-to-the-minute updates, pictures and videos on ever major collection! I’m not kidding… it’s a powerful application, especially indispensable during Fashion Week.

First I downloaded the application to my iPhone from the iTunes Application Store and synced it to my iPhone… it showed up on my home screen (top right corner).

When I clicked on the application, it took about two seconds to load.

Once I was into the home application, I had choices to see the latest images from Spring 2009, view all shows from Spring 2009, view Fall 2008 couture from Paris, read the latest updates from the StyleFile Blog, or view Style Videos.

I clicked on the first option to view the latest collection and it gave me an extensive list of all designer shows available.

I clicked on Alexander McQueen and images from his entire collection showed up… clicking on a thumbnail launches the slide show.

Amazing, right?

Chanel Haute Couture Show F/W 08/09 (Free)

This iPhone application gives you every possible highlight of Chanel’s Fall-Winter 08/09 Haute Couture show. To get the application on my phone, I first downloaded it on iTunes and synced it to my iPhone (bottom left icon).

Once I clicked on it, it took about one second to load and the home screen comes up where I have a choice to view the show, see looks and accessories, view Chanel news, or locate a store.

I choose Chanel News and when it loads I have instant access to Chanel News directly from Chanel.

As always, I encourage you to research before you buy and make sure your technology purchase benefits you! What mobile fashion apps are you addicted to?

For a style blog I started with my sister, I posted a picture in these teal DKNY tights:

(Above) That’s how they looked on me.

(Above) That’s how they look on the DKNY model.

A good source for colorful tights once you’ve worked up the nerve is We Love Colors. They have a bright blue pair I’ve been checking out.

Are you ready to try colorful tights yet? Have you come up with some great outfit/tights combinations? I’d love to see them!

My friend Beth drew my attention to this new trend. How could I resist opening an email with the title “Is this the new dickey?” And yes, I believe the insidious scarflette is indeed the latest incarnation of “a false shirt-front – originally known as a detachable bosom”. Check out some examples:

Why do I hate these so much, you ask? Let me count the ways:

1) Scarflette vendors inevitably style their models wearing a scarflette and nothing else. Aside from the suspension of disbelief this requires (if it’s warm enough to pose nude, the model’s neck probably isn’t freezing), I’d be much more likely to buy one if the retailer actually showed me how a scarflette could be used to accessorize my fall and winter outfits.

2) I already own a million chunky necklaces that I don’t get to wear nearly often enough — and they don’t itch or threaten to choke me

3) When I was in elementary school, I went through a phase of penning my own Goosebumps-inspired short stories…including one which featured a heroine whose hid her decapitated state from the world by attaching her head to her body through the use of a strategically-tied scarf. Apparently, I did a good job freaking myself out, because I remember it to this day and refuse to wear anything that might make me resemble The Headless Horsewoman.

What do you think? Do I need to rethink scarflettes? Are these something you’ll be adding to your wardrobe this season?

The ideal work bag must be roomy… On any given day, I’m hauling about a laptop, notebook, small make-up refresher bag, a bottle of water, and potentially my lunch. If it’s a gym day, throw workout clothes and sneaks into the mix, too. Among all that, it’s easy to lose a cell phone, blackberry, extra pen, wallet and glasses… so clearly, compartments are key.

The perfect work bag is over the shoulder, not handheld. But, the straps should be short enough that you COULD carry it by hand or on the crook of the elbow as well. It should be leather (in my opinion), and a neutral color to ensure you don’t have to change it every time you change your outfit.

It might be high end …

Or it might be less expensive…

Or it may be somewhere in between…

Or, break out of the neutral box and get something colorful like this sunny yellow number…

Either way… the bag is only half the style battle. Make sure you don’t overstuff (a very bad look), and make sure you pick one big enough to truly carry your essentials. Otherwise, the collection of work bag, gym bag and lunch/shoes in a shopping bag looks disheveled and sloppy — not a good look for a working girl… not THIS kind of working girl, anyway!