Swim 2010 - Sweet as Pie & Summer Glam

Have you been daydreaming about relaxing on a beach with a daiquiri in hand, soaking up the summer sun and the salt water?  Or do you want to play poolside or spend the day staring at the crystal waters from aboard a yacht?  No matter how you get your hot weather fix, I'm digging up the swim styles to get you ready.  It's Swim 2010!

The first look is the perfect mix of cute and retro.  You can go with the classic bandeau-style top or the more modern monokini.  It's adorable paired with the pair of brightly-framed sunglasses.  And check out these shades more closely.  They have a tiny cherry print on them!  The yellow wedges blend perfectly in this sweet retro look.  Throw on this loosely fitting dolman-sleeve coverup that's so spot on for this look, even the name of the shade has a food reference: "Orange Spice."

Sweet as Pie

 

Clockwise from Left:

Pear Bandeau Bikini Top (yellow or orange), $19.99  / Matching Brief, $19.99

Cherry Print Sunglasses, $11.99

(Deal of the Day) Pear Print Monokini (yellow or orange), $21.80

Patent Yellow Peep-Toe Wedge, $20.50

Dolman Sleeve Cover-up Top, Reg $29 / Sale $19 (Special: Buy 2 or more coverups, save $4 each)

If you want something a little less cute, and a little sexier, check out this glam look. Big Bonus:  these suits are part of the ShapeFX line, meaning they are FIGURE FLATTERING and help HIDE THOSE TROUBLE SPOTS.  Oh yeah, I thought that was worthy of all caps.  Yet the thing I love most about them, is that they still don't lose their sex appeal.  Check out the corset-style sides and hot pink color (also available in black) of the one-piece. You'd never guess that has a "power-mesh" lining to help hide those few extra pounds.  The cut of that bikini gives you more coverage than many of the season's styles, plus it features the same "power-mesh" lining to flatter your hips and bum.  That's never a bad thing.

With such a sleek look to these suits, add a little bling to your look with some show-off sandals.  I love the ones with the zipper-detail (they're already packed in my suitcase!).   And of course you need a pair of shades that can keep up.  These silver-framed, purple-lensed pair are hard to beat at less than $12.

Summer Glam

 

Clockwise from Top Left: 

Purple-tinted Sunglasses, $11.99

(Splurge) Shape fx one-piece with lace-up side, Pre-season sale $39 / Will be $59

Shape fx flattering traingle bikini, Reg$49 / Sale $29

Gold & Rhinestone flip-flop, $14

Flat Sandal with Zipper Detail (gold, black, or silver). $15.40

If you want more figure flattering looks, check out the ShapeFX line at Newport News...just pick them up while they're still on pre-season sale. 

Finally, take a look at this awesome and unusual Octopus Necklace over at Modcloth!  Only $14.99.

So, what's your swim style? And stay tuned, there's plenty more of Swim 2010 to come!

--  <3 BF

***Today's Coupon Codes:
Urbanog.com:  15% off order w/code RETAILMENOT, or Free Shipping over $50 with code FREESHIP
Gojane.com: Free Shipping over $50 with code GJSHIP50
ModCloth.com: 10% off order with codes Cute10 or modfriend (not positive these still work)

On the Runway: Karl Lagerfeld

NY Fashion Week just wrapped up recently, with the hottest models strutting the Fall 2010 collections down the runway.  So in honor of that, I backtracked a little to take a peek at some of the hottest trends for Spring.  One of my faves - Karl Lagerfeld's collection.  It's fairly simple with a lot of black and white, plus a pop of orange-red thrown in there. 

Okay, so I wouldn't exactly try to pull off those giant off-the-shoulder sleeves or what I believe is a basically a romper in the center - because, well, I'd look ridiculous.  So how do you to translate those styles to a real closet and a real budget?  Here's a few suggestions: 

 Top Left:  Short-Sleeve Tee with Cut-Out Sleeves in Black, $34.00

Bottom Left: Wide-Elastic Belt w/Metallic Buckle, $4.99

Right: (Deal of the Day) V-Neck Silk Tank Dress in Red, $22.10**

And a few more: 

 Left:  (Splurge) Button-Front Dress w/Elasticized Waistband and Keyhole Back, $79

Center:  Pleated-Stud Zipper Belt, $4.99

Right:  Button-Front Woven Collared-Dress in Gray, $37

Some cute looks and good deals!  But oh, the shoe addict in me couldn't ignore the heals that accompanied Mr. Lagerfeld's styles.  Have a closer look: 

The look for less:

 

 Left:  Peep-Toe, High-Heeled Gladiator Sandal in Black (also available in Taupe & White), $22.20**

Center:  Open-Toe, High-Heeled Studded Sandal in Black (also in Gray or Cream), $29.90**

Right:  Buckle-Trip Peep-Toe Bootie in White, $28.40

Hot!  I'm not the biggest fan of flat-sandals in general, but I can't walk around in platform heels all the time, either.  So here's your flats: 

  Black Vegan Leather Sandal, $15

I've also got a few Bonus Savers for you: 

**Get 20% off your order at UrbanOg.com with coupon code SPRING, or get free shipping with code FREESHIP

Free Shipping off any Go Jane Purchase over $50 -- GJSHIP50

Get $5 coupon code from Lulus.com when you sign up for their e-mail list.

What do you think of these Karl Lagerfeld-inspired looks?  Have you found any other runway-inspired looks for less?

<3 BF

Summer Lovin'

I don't know about you, but all this winter weather has made me long for some sandals and summer dress temperatures.   And luckily, TJ Maxx has some deals to start stocking up.

This is my favorite buy of the day.  It's a Calvin Klein dress for half price!  This is really one of those you have to try it on to love it dresses, but the bright strokes of blues and yellow instantly bring sunny summer days to mind.

Calvin Klein Strapless "Watercolor" Dress, Reg. at least $100/ TJ Maxx $49.95

Note to "Mad Men" lovers - TJ Maxx has several CK 60's-styled dresses that seem to have been pulled straight from the small screen - and all under $50!

Need a sexy LBD for those summer parties?  Here's a great deal I discovered in the clearance racks.  Check out the on-trend pearl/jeweled neckline!

Ribbon-tie, halter dress with pearl/jewel/sequin "necklace" neckline, TJ Maxx Clearance $15

You can't be beach ready without an amazing bathing suit coverup.  And this turquoise knit dress by Vertigo is the perfect choice.  It even has two little square pockets on the front that are perfect size to keep your i.d.s and cash in so you don't have to lug the beach bag everywhere. (Except of course for your sunscreen.  Sadly, there's no place for that in this dress).  Or put it over a simple short white cotton dress and be bohemian-chic for a cafe lunch.    Plus, the clearance price on this makes this the Deal of the Day.

Deal of the Day:  Vertigo Knit Dress in Turqoise. Suggested Retail Price $185/ TJ Maxx Clearance $23! 

And while you're preparing for those hot temperatures to come, you need some equally hot sandals.  Hello Nine West!

Splurge of the Day:  Nine West Bejeweled Sandals, Retail $75/ TJ Maxx $39.95

Summer, here I come!

(Note:  All of these deals were found in store at the TJ Maxx in Murfreesboro, TN.)

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

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: 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?

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 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.

Back to the Basics

Tons of great deals right now via good ol' Target.  I love Target for clothes now.  In the past few years, they've really amped up their designs by bringing in big names designers to do real-budget clothes.  And if you're willing to dig through the sales racks at the end of a season, you can find some great buys.

Today however, you don't have to do any digging.  Target has their "Back to the Basics" sale going on -- and you can find it online!  And with the temperatures dropping, their sales items are perfect for layering.
Deal of the day: I love the boyfriend cardigan in violet/ivory for $15.00.   I’d recommend an ivory scoopneck shirt (tee, tank top, or long-sleeves.)  However, you can pick up this black-lace trimmed one for less than $4!  Add the dark denim, low-rise bootcut jeans for under $10 (limited sizes available) and you have an entire outfit for less than $30.00!  You can bet that outfit is already in the Bargain Fashionista’s shopping cart. 

Here’s a great deal on a wardrobe staple – the basic black dress -- and this figure-flattering, sleeveless wrap-dress by Merona is on clearance for $14.98.   All sizes from small to xx-large are in stock, but I doubt for long.

While you're there, stock up on long-sleeve crewneck tees for only $6.00.  I especially love the berry for a winter-friendly pop of color, plus they’re great for putting under sweaters of all kinds when it starts getting really chilly outside.  Or for an easy weekend look, just throw on the shirt with a long necklace and jeans and you’re ready in no time.  This is a basic must-have.

Find it here

Today's final find: a sky blue tunic with slit-sleeves and a keyhole back has been marked down to $10.48.  Throw it over some skinny jeans and a pair of black boots.  Add a long necklace (noticing a theme yet?) and you’re good to go.  Kohl's has a lot of fashion jewelry on sale right now, but you’re better off heading to the store for that one.

Bonus Buys: 

+Gray/black canvas tote with zippers – was $44.99, now only $15.74.

+If you spend $50.00 or more at target.com, you get free shipping.

Site to Watch

I've become a little obsessed with watching HauteLook's website.  They launch new sales everyday.  All big brands.  Some of them are couture sales that still range in the few-hundred dollar range, but sometimes you can find a great buy.  Earlier this week HauteLook featured American Apparel on sale for under $20.00!  I bought two solid color hoodies, one in olive and one in navy, for only $13.00 each (I'll post photos when I get them in).  They also had long sleeve tees and dresses all for under $20.00.

It is a member's only site, but it's free.  And like I said, the sales change daily, so you only have about a 24 hour period to get in on them.  But keep an eye on it, and if you get any great deals, let me know!

HauteLook