Don’t forget there is still another fantastic option for any design lover on your gift list! A magazine subscription is really the perfect gift, at least for me. I love running to the post to pick up the latest Living Etc, Domino or even W (as we know home decor follows fashion). Below are a few of my monthly reads!

Do you have a favorite design book or magazine? If there are books on your list this year, what are they?

I recently found two looks I really liked and decided to recreate their outfits for as cheap a price point as possible.

First, I found a photo of night.owl, whose outfit was quite basic but had a fun pop of color.

1. Start out with a basic white dress, as night.owl did. I chose one that’s a bit more full in the skirt, which is more universally flattering.
2. I love the edgy jacket that night.owl is sporting. The dark charcoal gray also adds a modern, casual feel to the dress. Try this one by Forever 21.
3. Gray shoes are harder to find in the summer, but come fall/winter they should be much more plentiful. For now, try this pair.
4. Red tights completely made night.owl’s outfit. They added a punchy color and a quirky element that really stood out to me.

Next, I loved the romanticism of Moda-R’s outfit.

1. The slightly hippie print and feel of Moda-R’s dress is well-replicated in this green version by Forever 21.
2. A cardigan makes this outfit work-appropriate, but also gives it a more vintage, 50’s feel.
3. Metallic sandals will go with almost everything and they’ve got a laid-back, summery vibe.
4. Finish off the outfit with a waist-cinching belt.

Where do you look for fashion inspiration? What are your favorite blogs or photo websites?