Spy Games

(Note: Today features several splurges -- but the deal of the day is worth it!)
The trench coat - it's a classy silhouette with a twist of mystery and sex appeal.  And that's why it's a staple for any female spy.  Just ask Amy Adams:

And lucky for you, there's a great deal on an amazing GUESS trench at TJ Maxx.  This is a splurge, but it's a staple piece, and it's quality.

 

Splurge:  GUESS Belted Black Trenchcoat with White Stitching, Retail apprx. $140, TJ Maxx $69.95 (also available in red!)

And did you notice the handbag?  Of course you did.  It's the perfect size for storing all your spy-gear:  lipstick cameras, pen mics, thermal binoculars, etc. 

Splurge: GUESS black handbag, Retail over $100, TJ Maxx $49.95

Warning:  This purse is hot, but it is not made to repel buildings (ala Angelina Jolie in Mr. & Mrs. Smith).  At least, I haven't found that function yet.

No lady-spy can be without a kick-a** pair of stilettos.  These BCBGeneration ones are killer (and I think that could be literal with such a sharp heel).  I'm normally not a fan of the elastic look, but once on, these shoes are nearly impossible to pass up.  And they're surprisingly comfortable!  Try them on for yourself and see if I'm wrong.

BCBGeneration Candela Stilettos in Black, Retail $75, TJ Maxx $39.95

And finally, you need a great pair of shades to hide your intentions from prying eyes.  With all that black, let's throw a little color in the wardrobe.  How about these from Oscar de la Renta?  And by the way, check out that pricetag!  I didn't even have to buy them from some sketchy sunglasses dealer on the streets of NYC.

Deal of the Day: O by Oscar de la Renta Sunglasses, TJ Maxx $10

Now the only thing you need to complete the look is one of these (and no, I'm not talking about the gun):

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

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: 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.