I’m the kind of girl who doesn’t take a lot of fashion risks, especially with shoes. While I observe (and often covet) the trends, when it comes to the actual shopping experience, I mostly stick to the classic basics. I have my basic neutral brown wedges that go with everything, my black stilettos that go with all my dresses, and my everyday black flats, but nothing too flashy or adventurous.

Until now.

Behold my new smokin’ hot pair of pewter peep-toe booties! I saw them on Forever 21’s website and instantly fell in love with their rock-star fashionista vibe. And at $24.80, I’m able to try out the trend without too much of a commitment.

Check out some pricier alternatives: one by Steven by Steve Madden and another by Moschino.

Moral of the story: Step outside of your box once in awhile. Buy something that you wouldn’t normally wear but still appeals to you. Chances are, you’ll freshen up your wardrobe — and build a style that’s a little more you!

I know you don’t wanna even THINK about fall right now, but the truth is, September is just weeks away. The good news is, very soon you can start experimenting with some of the coolest trends this month’s fashion mags are featuring. I’m most looking forward to wearing big boxy plaids with cowlneck sweaters (like the look Adam Lippes sent down the runway for fall):

Statement accessories:

Metallic flashes (that aren’t over-the-top) like this skirt by Abaete:

And all the pretty dresses!

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.

Get the whole scoop »