Shoe Cravings: Sweater Boots February 21st, 2010 By

UGG Classic Cardy Sweater Boot

UGG Classic Cardy Sweater Boot

While the retail world is talking about spring and summer lines, I’m still thinking about winter…because it IS winter.  That’s why cuddly and cozy footwear is the perfect antidote to below freezing temps. Sweater boots are cute and comfortable once you pick the right pair.

Choose a sweater boot with a reinforced heel like the Bearpaw Knit Sweater boot or UGG Classic Cardy boot.  This will keep your feet from sliding around too much inside the boot (unsightly and uncomfortable).

Worn over leggings or skinny jeans, they are the perfect relaxed-but-stylish companion to a short sweaterdress or long cowl-neck sweater.

Keep warm, but stay chic!

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Shop under $50: Last Minute Gifts December 23rd, 2009 By

Found yourself searching for a present at the last-minute?  Whether this is your first time in this predicament or you always procrastinate, this year we are here to help you out.  

These are our top picks for last-minute gifts under $50:

Capelli Convertible Mittens

Capelli Convertible Mittens

Winter accessories with some flair.

Scarves, gloves and hats are classic Christmas gifts, but choose something trendy to make your gift a hit. A ruffled scarf, beret hat or flip-top mittens will please any fashionista.  These Capelli mittens from Boscov’s are a steal at just $8!  While these Jacob Ash mittens, suitable for gadget loving guys who need bare fingertips, are under $15 at Sierra Trading Post.

 

Jewelry.

Cute earrings or bracelets are an easy gift idea for a girl whose style you are familiar with.  Rachel Roy offers some earrings that will appeal to a girl who prefers classic style as well as more boho-chic items.  Try these simple bow earrings, for the girl who appreciates the understated or any of the hoop styles for someone with a more daring style.  Check out these ultra-affordable bracelets from Forever 21.  At less than $6, they make a great stocking stuffer. 

 

Minnetonka Fluffy Slipper 

Minnetonka Fluffy Slippers

Cute comfy slippers.

 These Minnetonka slippers rival UGGs in their comfort and style, but they win the shopping battle hands down because they are so much more affordable.

 These adorable Minnetonka Fluffy Slippers are under $30 at DSW.  

 

 

Converse Sneakers.

Have someone on your list who lives in their sneakers?  A new pair of Converse sneakers may be the perfect gift.  Great for a boyfriend or son who loves his Converse sneakers but has totally worn them out, you can find most of the classic styles for around $40.  Shopping for a girl?  These raspberry and aqua Converse sneakers are on sale for just $30!  You’ll have to do some stealth size checking, but it’ll be worth it to see him throw out that old ratty pair.

Spa-Worthy Treats

Jack Black Lip Balms and Skin Care Sets are a great stocking stuffer for guys.  The lip balm is matte, moisturizing and just $7.  The Clean and Cool Body Basics Set is $49 and includes a hand cream, body wash, dedorant and body lotion. 

Holiday Hostess Set, $20

Holiday Hostess Set, $20

Philosophy is my favorite line for treating women to delicious bath and body bliss. Get an adorable pre-packaged holiday set of Cinnamon Buns products or the fruitier Health Bar Cocktail set, $20 and $40, respectively.

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How to Wear: Puffer Jackets December 2nd, 2009 By

Juicy Couture Puffer Jacket

Juicy Couture Puffer Jacket

Puffer jackets are perfect for winter’s cold weather, but you don’t have to look like the Michelin Man just to keep warm.

Picking the right puffer jacket, not too fluffy, and pairing it with the right outfit are key to looking snow-bunny chic.

A defined waist, whether from a belt or the shape of the coat itself, will help you to look svelte.  Petite women should be wary of long puffer coats as they can overpower a smaller frame.  Your other garments should be streamlined and slimming under your coat. Wear your puffer over leggings, skinny jeans or a pencil skirt. Avoid A-line skirts and anything that adds volume. Wear a dark puffer coat for a more slimming effect.

Fur trim, like the faux-fur on the Juicy Couture jacket above, will keep your neck warm and coats lined with shearling or fur are extra toasty.

Juicy Couture and Burberry offer some gorgeous belted puffers. For a more wallet-friendly option, check out Victoria’s Secret and Target.

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How to Wear: Rainboots November 3rd, 2009 By

Rainboots from Target

Rainboots from Target

On cold, rainy days, nothing is worse than getting to work with wet feet and soggy, unattractive pant hems after an unpleasant commute.  A pair of cute rainboots would have saved you some discomfort.  Wear rainboots with a cute dress or skirt and tights and bring your flats or a pair of cut-out booties along with you to work.

Rainboots are made to handle the elements, unlike your ballet flats so you won’t have to fear puddles.  Your flats won’t have to go into storage yet either, which is great for those of use who are reluctant to see the lovely warm summer weather go away and with it, some of our favorite shoes.

Burberry Rainboots
Burberry Rainboots

Rainboots come at all price points and styles.  We love fun, bright prints for grey days.  The rainboots at Target are all under $20, so you can afford to buy a few in different patterns.  As a bonus, you can wear a black trench coat and never worry about if the pattern clashes with your outfit.

Have more cash to spend?  Check out these Burberry rainboots.  Their classic plaid pattern will keep you dry in serious style.

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Editor’s Picks: Baby, It’s Cold Outside November 2nd, 2009 By

Chan Luu Infinity Scarf, $125

Chan Luu Infinity Scarf, $125

With the temperatures under 40° in New York City and snow in October, I can tell we are in for one freezing winter.  I’m already craving cuddly accessories that are fashionable and warm.  Brightly-colored infinity scarves, pop-top mittens and cute berets will keep that basic black coat from looking too bleak.  The weather is dreary enough, so spice up your wardrobe with bright accessories!

Infinity scarves are made as one big loop. You can wear them draped around your neck, over your shoulders, or even as a hood.  This is a trend you can wear now and later.  Chan Luu offers a thinner scarf that will work well into spring, while The Limited has a chunkier knit scarf that will definitely keep you toasty.

I love pop-top mittens.  When it gets so cold outside that hiding your hands in your pockets just won’t work anymore, it is time to break out the gloves.  Leather gloves are beautiful when you are dressed up; but on my hectic commute, I have to remove my gloves so many times, I’ve lost more pairs than I’d care to admit.  Juicy Couture has some very cute pop-top mittens in lots of colors and even stripes!

Pop-Top Mittens, $55

Pop-Top Mittens, $55

Berets are not only for Francophiles.  They keep your ears warm and stop you from losing body heat — yet they don’t give you hat head like a more form-fitting cap would.  Berets are especially great for those of us who have trouble with static as the temperature drops.  You can even find a match for your pop-top gloves from Juicy Couture!

Juicy Couture Beret and Matching Scarf

Juicy Couture Beret and Matching Scarf

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