Christmas Countdown

Alright procrastinators (myself included), we're getting down the wire.  Hopefully  your online shopping is all done, but if not, I have some good news for you later in this post.

First, I wanted to share today's Deal of the Day that I found in stores.  At the price listed, you might as well add one to your closet, and wrap one up for a friend.

Mossimo Moto Jacket in Brown or Gray (my fave), Originally $29.99/ Sale $14.98!

Told you that was a killer price.  No luck for you online shoppers though -- I've only been able to find this in stores (particularly at the Target in Murfreesboro.)  And you better act fast.  At this price, most of those are probably already gone.

For anyone still trying to buy online without spending a fortune, here's the good news. Tomorrow is also Free Shipping day, so expect to see shipping deals at over 600 online retailers with guarantees on Christmas delivery.

Steve Madden - Free Express Shipping thru Dec. 21 at 11:59 EST + 25% off orders of $75 or more with code COUNTDOWN25
Amazon.com -  Super Saver Shipping ends tomorrow (Dec. 17).  Order by then and you get Free Shipping on orders over $25.
Sears - $5 off $50 with code SEARS5OFF + Free Shipping thru Dec. 19

Bonus: Use my links and part of your purchase proceeds go to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

For more free shippning deals and coupon codes to your favorite stores, check out Cybermonday.com and RetailMeNot.com

Merry Christmas Shopping!

-BF

Last Minute Christmas Shopping Online

Hey fashionistas - it's Dec. 15, and that means Christmas is around the corner.  That also means that shipping rates for most places are going up in order to get your gifts there on time.  Ouch!  Don't worry, your BF is here to help, and give you a reason to feel good about yourself (see end of blog). 

Kohls.com is still guaranteeing shipping by Dec. 24th via Standard Ground on orders placed by Dec. 17.  (before 11pm EST / 10pm CST).  And I have another lovely surprise for you.  If you use your Kohl's card , enter the code CHRISTMAS30 at checkout, and you'll get an additional 30% off (plus I hear free shipping on orders over $50)!

Here's the deal I picked up for a gift -

Black Satin & White Ruffled Dress, Originally $68/ Sale $30.60

Price with Code $21.42

Another bonus - $10 is Kohl's Cash for every $50 you spend.  Still looking for some hot gift ideas?  Reach new heights with high-heel boots, or get comfy-cute with flats:

Left:  High-heel Suede Boots in Black, Originally $99.99/ Sale $49.99

Price with Code $34.99

Right:  Buckled Leather Flats in Black, Originally $64.99/ Sale $30.97

Price with Code $21.58

And here's a perfect steal for your mom, grandma, sister -- or any other classy lady in your life:

(Deal of the Day) Freshwater Pearl Bracelets with Gray/Black Accents or Brown Accents, Set of 3

Originally $70/ Sale $17.50/ Price with Code $12.25

Buy any of these items through the links I supplied, and you're also giving back.  Why?  Because each purchase made will donate some of that cash back to charity. 

Merry Christmas Shopping, Fashionistas!

-BF

Dazzle your Feet and Your Wallet

I have a new obsession.  It's called ShoeDazzle -- the genius brainchild of, get this, Kim Kardashian.  When it comes to fashion marketing, this girl really does get it. 

Here's how it works.  Remember those "jam-of-the-month" clubs -- this is like that -- except SO much better!  You answer a questionnaire (and by answer, I mean you click on pictures.  See, even that part's easy).  That determines your general fashion tastes.  Then, ShoeDazzle's personal stylists suggest 5 pair of shoes for you every month. You then pick which ones you love and have them sent to you (included in the membership cost:  $39.95/month).  So for those fashionistas who don't have time to hit the stores for great deals, this is perfect.  The bonus is that you don't have to do this every month.  You can choose to "skip this month" between the 1st and the 5th.  If you don't, but don't want to buy, your ShoeDazzle account gets credited so you can use that fee towards another shoe purchase over the next year.

Also note, if you don't love the 5 pairs picked out for you, let them know.  They'll keep trying until they get it right.

If you want to try it out, you will have to give them your credit card info, but you won't be charged until you decide to actually buy a pair of shoes.

Want to see an example of the shoe selection?   Here's my first month, and I love them:

Want to give your favorite fashionistas the hook-up for Christmas?  ShoeDazzle does giftcards, too!  Just purchase however many months you want to give.

Still not sure?  You can also check them out on Facebook to see what people are saying.

Do you use ShoeDazzle?  If so, what do you think of it?  Or if you're just now signing up, what kind of selection did they give you?

Make Your Smile Sparkle (and stock up on stocking stuffers)

Want to get the pearly whites to really glow?  Check out GO SMiLE:  much cheaper than dentist whitening, and supposedly much better than your standard white strips (without the sensitivity issues either). 

The problem -- still not cheap.

That is, unless you get over to Hautelook right now! Why the urgency?  Because Hautelook's sales are temporary, and this one ends tomorrow (Nov. 19) at 10:00 am CST.   That's also only if these products last that long.  Once they sell out, they're gone, and some GO SMiLE items are already sold out.  So sign up and get to stocking stuffing.

Buy this for yourself:

Left:  Go All Out Kit w/Smile Whitening System  $65 (regularly $120)

Right:  Limited Ed. Smile Whitening System  $50 for one, $89 for two (reg. $115 each)

Buy this for your sister *hint* ;)  :

Left:   Go Glam Kit  $18.50 (reg. $39)

Right:  Holiday Travel Kit   $25  (reg. $60)

Buy this for a parent:

Ultrasonic Toothbrush & Lemonade Smile Mini  $45 (reg. $114)

And pick these up for stocking stuffers, friends, or even for yourself :

 FLASHLiTES Touch-Ups Bundle of 4 (7-packs/28 ampoules total)  $16 (reg. $40)

That last one can make 4 gifts for only $4 each!  How sweet is that?

In case you missed it, here's your link!

Weekend Deal (with coupon!)

If you're in need of some good quality and sharp-looking office clothes, Express is one of my favorite places.  And this weekend, they've got a pretty good coupon.  Now through Monday, you can get $30 off any $75 purchase.  Okay, I know $75 only gets you one, maybe two items in that store, but it's a worthy splurge with the coupon.  Bonus:  get an extra 20% off all clearance-items, and I've gotten some good finds in clearance there.

Some items to stock up on:

Their basic tailored, button-up may seem a little pricey if you're used to digging through Target's sale rack, but it's worth the price (with coupons/discounts anyway).  They fit is amazing, and the metal buckle detail on the sleeves is a nice touch.  As they describe it, this shirt is "a feminine take on a timeless office look."  Bonus: they're buy-one-get-one-half-off.

Essential Stretch Long-Sleeve shirt, $39.50 solid colors (various);   $49.50 striped (various colors)  + half-off your 2nd one.

Okay, so I love this next military-inspired shirt, but unfortunately I paid full sticker price for it.  You, however, can get it on sale + 20% off.

 Long-sleeve shirt-jacket (other colors available), Final Price in cart $39.99

And this is just classy, and not a bad price-tag for a great LBD. 

Studio Stretch Sheath Pencil Dress, Final Price in Cart $39.99

Let me know what weekend shopping deals you pick up! 

-BF

Going Vintage: The Cloche

I've had a slight obsession with Cloche Hats ever since I watched Angelina Jolie in Changeling. 

The hat is the epitome of 1920s style, but it can easily carry over to your modern wardrobe.  They're feminine and pretty -- and can easily dress up your jacket on a rainy day to make you feel like a silent film star.  Plus, you can add one to your closet without breaking the bank.

Style tips:  Keep to the more narrow brim.  It's more elegant than the style that re-surged in the 70's.  Also, the classic colors tend to match the style better than the brights, especially in wool felt.  And finally, try to pair your hat with equally feminine pieces.  The cloche hat doesn't really fit in with just a pair of jeans and your comfy, long-sleeve t-shirt.

I found this one while trying not to buy anything during a shopping trip at TJ Maxx. It just happened to be one of those bargains I couldn't pass up.  After all, I'm the Bargain Fashionista.  Note, this picture is from London Fog's website of the hat in black.  My TJ Maxx one is in gray.

(deal of the day) London Fog Felt Cloche Hat with Button in Gray, $15.00 in stores at TJ Maxx (originally priced $44.99)

Forever 21 also has a few cute styles, including one that seems almost straight off the screen from Changeling:

 Right:  Cambridge Cloche in brown (also avail. in black), 100% wool, $11.80

Wool Cloche Hat with Grossgain Ribbon Band in Black, $12.80

Feel like splurging?  Check out Cloche available at Banana Republic.  I love the navy color with the black ribbon detail.

 (Splurge of the Day) Ribbon Cloche Hat in Military Blue, $50.00

If you're extra crafty, you can save even more and customize your own Cloche by crocheting one.  I found several patterns online.  These are a few of my favorites: 

Left: 1950s Star Stitch Knit Cloche with Ribbon

Right: Floral Knit Cloche

I especially love the floral one, though I would like to see it in navy with a creme flower I think (hint, hint my crocheting cousin Kiki  - you know you're my favorite ;-)  )

Steal Her Style: Elle Macpherson

Elle Macpherson is bundled up in a purple turtleneck tunic and fur vest.  The low-heeled riding boots keep the outfit comfy for a casual weekend.

Steal her Style: 
The trick here is to make sure your turtleneck is long enough to cover your hips and stays loose throughout the body.  If you're taller, you'll definitely have to get a tunic cut like Elle's.  More petite women can probably find a loose and longer cut turtleneck.

Top:  Planet Gold Turtleneck Tunic Sweater, $19.99

Bottom:  (Deal of the Day!) Canyon River Blues Cowl Neck Turtleneck in Purple, $9.98

Mudd Faux-Fur Vest, $18.99

To steal Elle's style, go with a thicker legging, like these dark denim ones:

Denim Leggings in Dark Wash, $12.00

And get some classic riding boots.  They're more casual than high heeled boots, and of course, more comfortable.  You'll be able to use them all winter long, especially on the weekends.

Kallista Riding Boots by Merona, $39.99

Do you like Elle's cozy weekend look?

Email me or find me on twitter @bargainfashion if you have any styles you want to steal!

Keep warm,
BF

Steal Her Style: Kristin Cavallari

The Bargain Fashionista is back -- and this time with a cooly-casual look from Kristin Cavallari.  She looked  perfect for fall when she hit the streets wearing a red-plaid Elizabeth & James button down and black skinny jeans.  An Alexander Wang Duffle with grommet detailing on the bottom and the Ray-Ban sunglasses are relaxed, while black Louboutin pumps add a little sex appeal.  

Steal her Style:

Avoid looking lumber-jack with a soft, sheer plaid shirt like the Derek Heart Plaid Voile Shirt, $13.99 - bad news, it's only available in x-small now.

If that doesn't work, you can pick up this Chaps Plaid Shirt for $28.99

Black Skinny Jeans by ELLE, $19.99

Get that Classic Wayfarer-Inspired look with these Joel Goodson Sunglasses, $5.99

Black-Patent Peep Toe Pumps kick up the sex appeal, $21.99

Finish your look off with Hollywood Intition's Black Satchel with Brass Tone Studs, $18.88

Splurge of the Day:

Pick up a little extra edge with the chain detail on the zipper of this Extra Large Hobo from Christian Siriano for Payless, $34.99.

What do you think of Kristin's look: love the plaid, or is it only a passing fad?

Work, Work, Work

Hi all.   The Budget Fashionista's hiatus will continue this week because my other job (you know, the one that pays me) is requiring much more attention this week.  Nonetheless, I will be back with more great fashion finds for your shopping pleasure next week.  Keep shopping and support that economy ;)

-BF

Think Pink

The Bargain Fashionista is back after a much needed vacation (which I'm still technicall on) - and this post, I've got some very special shopping for you.  Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I've dug up some of the cutest clothes and accessories that will also show your support for the fight against breast cancer. 

The Susan G. Komen store has some of the most creative buys, with 25% of the purchase price going to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.  My favorite is the wrap bracelet featuring the Komen logo, and has the inspirational reminder: "Know your risk; Get screened; Know what is normal for you; Make healthy lifestyle chocies."

Susan G. Koman Leather Wrap Bracelet in Black or Pink, $20

There's also a good selection of t-shirts that go beyond the basic pink ribbon style.  Of course, they have those too if you're looking for something a little more simple.  Some of the most creative:

Left to Right:  (Deal of the Day!) Empowerment tee, $15

Ignite Change tee, $22;  Imagine tee, $22

Want to show off your funny side?  Shop "Save the Tatas" for a little humor meets inspiration.  Fitting that their slogan is "laughter heals." I love the bumper magnets, but being a fashion blog, I'll show off a few of their tees instead.  (5% of all sales go to support breast cancer research and awareness through the Save the Tatas Foundation.)

Top:  Long-Sleeve Classic Logo Tee in Pink, $29.95

Bottom:  Short-Sleeve Classic Logo Tee in Black, $24.95

You can also show off exactly what kind of tatas you have with their "Cowgirl Tatas", "Rocking Tatas", "Pirate Tatas" and other humorous styles.  Check out their website for more.

My final find of the day:  The "I'm Tired Of..." line of bracelets.  You can choose which cause you want to support from hunger, to discrimination, to, of course, breast cancer.  They cost $10, but $5 of that goes to the cause you want to support.  Not only are you helping a good cause, they're environmentally friendly.  Bracelets are made from recycled tires and recycled metal.  

"i'm tired of breast cancer" Bracelet, $10

Are you shopping pink for anyone special this year? 

Steal her Style: Olivia Wilde

Olivia Wilde showed up to The Late Show with David Letterman in a perfect combination of sophistication and spunk.  The gray sheath dress and platform pumps are a pretty enough combination, but the leather jacket over it adds a fun touch of character.

Olivia is sporting a Helmut Lang Sheath Dress in Gray ($485), a Draped Leather Jacket by Vince ($995), and Nude Platform Pumps by Brian Atwood ($520.00).  Final price tag:  $2,000.

Or you can get the entire look for less than $90.00 - shoes and all!

Newport News Metallic Sheath Dress with Drapeneck, $14.99

Newport News Platform Pump in Rich Almond, $39.00

Ruffle Motorcycle Jacket by Charlotte Russe, $34.99

Do you think Wilde's style is worth stealing?

Is there a celeb style you want to steal?  Leave me a link in the comments or drop me a line via email or twitter @bargainfashion

Keeping Snug - Part 3: Going Military

The Military Jacket:  Another hot look that's constantly being re-invented.  Go for a tailored-fit to give off a perfect combination of strength and femininity.  And for a real on-trend look, pick up this season's marching band-inspired looks: 

(Left) Splurge on this Castle Peak Jacket in navy by BB Dakota for $62.00 or get the look for less (Right) with the Ribbon-Trim Military Jacket by Newport News for $29.00-32.00

Get mad for plaid with this Plaid Double Breasted Jacket for $24.99 at Charlotte Russe.

Go corduroy or cropped with these mock-neck looks.  Left: Brown Corduroy Jacket with front Pockets, $26.99

Right: Cropped Double-Breasted Jacket in Black, $19.99.  Both from Charlotte Russe

What kind of Military Jacket fits your style?

Keeping Snug, Part 2: The Trench

The Trench Coat: Continuing on my theme of jackets for Under30, today we're venturing into the land of the Trench.  It's a classic style, and belted trenches give a lovely silhouette.  Luckily trenches come in all price ranges.  A good trench can also carry you through pretty much any style function - casual, business, dressy.

Here's some of my best finds:

 Self-esteem Belted Trench with contrast lining and belt.  I love the collar shape and buttons on this one.  White w/plaid or Black with zebra.  On sale for $21.99.  Also available in grey.

Braeten faux-silk Trench in Sage Green.  Has a straight fit and water-repellant finish.  Sale price:  $29.99

Splurge of the Day:

Left: Holly Golightly Trench in White, $69.00

Right: Belted Python Print Trench, $69.99

Find any other hot deals on Trench Coats?  Leave me a comment, sent me a twitter @bargainfashion , or email me bargainfashionista at yahoo dot com.

Keeping Snug - Part 1: The Bomber

It's that time of year again.  The leaves will soon be changing colors and brightening the landscape.  The scents of pumpkin and apple spice fill many kitchens.  And fashionistas are hitting the stores looking for this year's on-trend coats.  It's my favorite time of year, but not my wallet's favorite. Outerwear doesn't come cheap.

But I've done some pre-season digging and found some of this year's best styles all for under $30.00!

The Bomber Jacket:  This is one of my favorites this season.  It's very Amelia Earhart, and a nice change if you don't always love the feminine cut.  It's also a very popular style this year as many of the ones I found for Under30 are selling out quickly.  Check out these:

Xhiliration Bomber Jacket in Dark Brown or Hooded Bomber in Toffee.  The toffee sans hood has already sold out.  Also available in Plum.  All 3 are $29.99 each

Deal of the Day: Miley Cyrus & Max Azria Bomber Jacket in Crimson or Gray.  $20.00

Brighten things up with the textured stripe Bomber in Honey, or go scholastic with a tweed Bomber in Brown.  Your choice at $24.99 from Charlotte Russe.

Splurge:  The Southpaw Jacket by Hurley in Olive Green.  Has faux-fur lined hood.  $74.00 at Lulus.com

So do you think the bomber is here to stay?  (It's certainly selling out this year).

More great styles to come.  Keep an eye out.