Cheap yet fulfilling

I play this game sometimes where I get a set amount of money (say $20) I get to spend it on whatever I want. I've always found a lot of satisfaction in getting a lot of little things with a small amount of money. Every girl loves to bargain shop, after all.

If you have $20, $50 or $100 burning a hole in your pocket and you want to cash in for a hefty amount of items, here are a few suggestions:

Fun hair accessories:

- One of my favorite Ebay sellers, Planet Walrus, has a plethora of adorable hair clips that run for about $2-3 per set.

- Snatch up adorable clips and head bands from Forever 21 for about $2-4 per. I am really digging thisPolka Dot Headwrap ($2.80), perfect to complete a summer outfit with!



Stockings, knee-highs and ankle socks

If you don't think ankle socks can be fashionably worn, then you obviously haven't been reading Agathe's blog Style Bytes, which also happens to be my favorite fashion blog of all time. These little "leg accessories" instantly transform an outfit into something sexier, something flirtier, or something edgier.

- For the sexy and the edgy fashionistas, check out this collection from My Diva's Closet. Items run at about $5 each.

- Stockingirl is the premier online store for all things related to legwear. Their selection is enormous and their prices are very good. I adore these 60's inspired ankles socks for only $8.99.


Shoes


- Pearl River is really one-stop shopping for all sorts of Asian-inspired goods, from journals and paper to lanterns and soaps. I really adore their soft, simple Mary Janes in both brocade and cotton fabrics. Stock up on these for all seasons. Prices run from $5-15.

- Believe it or not, Payless now carries a wide selection of fashionable shoes! They carry flats, espadrilles, wedges and plenty of fashionable sandals.

Basics

Stock up on basics like comfortable, plain t-shirts from American Apparel for about $7.99 at Amazon. Gap also carries a variety of basic t's and camis that are quite affordable.

Jewelry


Ebay is a great resource for jewelry! Shop for trends that are big right now with keywords like:
-sailor
-anchor
-nautical
-horn
-bird
-owl
-vintage
-boho
-charm or charms
-leaf or leaves
-key or keyhole
or in the case that you want jewelry with large natural stones, searching "pawn" (as in pawn shops) brings up good items.


Searching for vintage costume jewelry is also a good way to score unique pieces. Also search for specific designers who carry great jewelry, but with a price that's probably more affordable on ebay like "Vivienne Westwood" and "Kenneth Jay Lane."
Forever21, Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Target also carry fashionable jewelry for $50 and under, and in the case of Forever21, rarely is anything over $10.


Also, be sure to scout your area (check the phonebook! it's an oft-ignored valuable resource) for consignment shops, thrift stores and antique stores. It's also good to keep an ear to the ground on what kinds of garage sales and yard sales are happening in your city. A good way to find this out is by reading the alternative newspaper in your area, or in some cases the big metro paper will advertise garage sales in the Classified section. Almost all of my best, most-prized belongings come from second-hand shopping, so it's definitely worth the effort to find the places that sell good second-hand items!


Happy bargain shopping!

Oh the fugmanity!

Alerted to this outfit by the brilliant ladies at Go Fug Yourself, I couldn't help but notice in the melange of early 90's pink-leopard-print horror that is Paris Hilton's outfit, that the anchor t-shirt is actually quite cute. Any idea where she got that?

Unsung Designers get their Song

Emerging designers always have to struggle with the sheer number of previous designer's lines, in an effort to be more unique and more eye-catching. As the saying goes, there's nothing new under the sun. However, I always find new, emerging designers to be more exciting than the old standbys. There's also something more rewarding in supporting independent designers, rather than big chain stores.

There's now a terrific website devoted solely to emerging designers and their lines of clothing called Unsung Designers. The clothes they carry are definitely chosen by someone with an eye for fashion. This isn't a place where anyone with a sewing machine can sell their clothing. The clothes featured on Unsung Designers are unique, creative and completely fashion forward.

Here are a few items on the site that caught my eye:









Happy Shopping!

I'm hawking my ebay-wares!

Some that are worth looking at, if you like vintage clothes, that is:


Vintage Christian Dior dress


Vintage Teal and Yellow Checked Mod Dress


Vintage 70's Orange Polyester Blouse


Vintage Tunic/Dress Top


Vintage Lacoste Dress


Vintage Polka Dot Dress!

I'm selling 15 items right now, and putting up more in a few days.


The coolest thing is, my friend has given me a stash of clothes from the late 1930's to sell. The story is, the person who owned these clothes was only 17 when she died in 1939. The clothes were packed in a cedar chest and not opened until now. So we're talking mint condition clothes from the 1930's. And these clothes are completely chic and amazing. Keep a look out for those when I put them up!

Get one in every color!

I am really loving these pencil skirts by American Apparel. They're simple and perfectly cut, and the color palette is great!

Also, check out Spicy Toast's DIY clothing. There aren't many items up, but what is there is absolutely amazing and it goes fast. I love this dress:

Myspace Yourspace!

Can you believe that High Fashion Girl is now rocking a Myspace page? Well, you'd better:

Check it out!

Definitely add me as a friend if you want!

Help me plan my outfit!

I will be attending my dear sister-in-law's wedding in June and need help figuring out what to wear. I'm basing my outfit off of this recent purchase (turquoise and red combination):



I want to do a plain-ish top with some eye-catching accessories and shoes. Suggestions are welcome!

Favorite Fashion Designers

Here is an (incomplete) list of my favorite fashion designers. You can probably tell that I love people who focus on details, though some lines that have a more pure aesthetic (straight lines, no fuss) like Bottega Veneta still make the cut.


Alexander McQueen (the #1 love of my life, I am straight up crazy about this man's clothing line)
Nanette Lepore
Tracy Reese
Stella McCartney
Moschino Cheap & Chic
Marc Jacobs
Zac Posen
Trina Turk
Ella Moss
Bottega Veneta
Chloe
Emilio Pucci
C Ronson
Erotokrito
Development Clothing
Ilana Moses
Bi La Li
Grail
Grey Ant
Free People
Ben Sherman
Mike & Chris
Spring & Clifton
Park Vogel
Miu Miu
Nieves Lavi
Bill Blass
Marni
Vivienne Westwood
Missoni
Luca Luca
Gina Michele

Tell me some of your favorite designers!

Plus-Size Fashion Tips

My post A Weighty Discussion has sparked interest in some for a post dedicated to plus-size fashion. Now, unfortunately, you won't find any Gucci dresses in a size 3x, but that doesn't mean that larger girls are left out completely from of-the-moment fashion trends. There are a few places that do quite a good job at staying on top of what's trendy.

What I'm going to define as plus-size is size 14+. Some of the sites I list go up to sizes 32+. Some of the sites only go up to an 16-18. Hopefully you can find some that fit your style, budget and personal size.

Bandlu : Very trendy, very rock and roll, and very affordable. Don't miss gorgeous pieces like this grommeted jacket

or this adorable Rasta shirt

*Carries size 14-30




Delias: A very fun, young line of clothing that promises the trendiest pieces of the moment. Don't forget to browse their awesome accessories and shoes while you're there. Pick up pieces like this

through XL or check out their great selection of denim that runs through sizes 15/16-17/18.




J. Jill : Boasts a more sophisticated line of clothing with soft, feminine pieces.
*Carries 14w-28w




Torrid: This site is the Hot Topic for plus-size girls. Their pieces are smart and sassy. Check out this "Club" look:

Also check out the Model FAQ's to see if you qualify to be a Torrid model!
*Carries through sizes 12-28




Old Navy: Affordable fashion through size 3X. Greating for stocking up on pretty basics like this little black dress:





Nordstrom : Nordstrom offers plus-size fashions that are on the higher-end side of the spectrum, like this Tibor Leathers Pickstitch Coat for $348:

*Sizes range according to designer, usually goes up to a 3X though




Alight: A fun and flirty line that specializes in pretty ethnic-inspired clothes like this poplin skirt:

*Carry sizes through 4x





Avenue: Great women's clothes and great accessories. Pair these summer capris a rockin' top from Blandu and you'll be turning heads:

*Carries through size 32



Uniquely Me : Touts itself as "Your personal plus-size shopper". Finds stores and plus-size items by tons of designers.




Tall Girls: Awesome British fashion with a larger focus on "Tall" girls than "Plus-size" girls, but there's still a good mix. Keep in mind the clothes are in British sizes so be sure and check the size chart before you buy! I'm digging these white-hot skinny leg jeans:

*Sizes through UK 22, inseam up to 36"





Newport News : Carries a plus-size line that won't disappoint. Also be sure the check their shoes and accessories! I actually own (and reccomend) this pair of wide-leg trousers:

which they carry in sizes from 4-18.





Kiyonna : Has some really stunning pieces for plus-size women (a tad more expensive though. Check out This Metallic Lace Cocktail Dress. I was drooling!
*Carries size 12-32





Ruby Rox : Specializes in dresses (a great place for larger girls to buy prom dresses, for sure!) A good substitute for those who lust for Forever 21's dresses.
*Carries size 12-28





Monif C. : Attitude + hip style = this site. I was really loving the sassy vibe. I thought this dress was particularly sexy

*Carries through size 14-24





Bacca : Doesn't have a lot of clothes to choose from, but the pieces they do have are amazing and so very cheap! Check out this vintage-inspired "Chameleon" dress that's only $20!!

*Carries through size 14-24




Always for Me : A very sexy line that revels in the full-figured female form. Mostly carries swimwear, lingerie and active wear. Check out this Marilyn Monroe-esque bathing suit:

*Carries size 16-26




Elisabeth : The plus-size portion of the Liz Claiborne empire. Carries sophisticated clothes for women. A good place to buy professional looking work pieces.





Size Appeal : A sexy line of clothing that seems to run on the motto "If you've got it, flaunt it." Probably a good place to buy "club" outfits. I like this dress in particular:

*Carries sizes 1x-4x



Target : Target has become a great place to shop for women's clothing, and their plus-size department is no different. Find the right pieces for every season. Even Isaac Mizrahi's collection contains plus-size clothing for the trend-conscious girl.





Lane Bryant: A hallmark in plus-size fashion. Their clothes used to be dowdy and seemed aimed more at covering up than looking good. That's all changed. They stay on top of the latest trends and carry sizes 14-28. Their accessories are always fun and fashionable.




Lerner NY : Carries both plus-size and tall fashions (size 4-20 and inseam up to 34").



Made with love by Hannah DIY independent designer Hannah Kopacz offers utterly adorable hand-crafter clothing through size 3X. Be sure to snatch up her clothing because it goes quickly! I'm going crazy for this skirt right now:





I hope this site guide helps some of you find what you're looking for. Something I noticed in my searches were that the plus-size models were absolutely drop-dead gorgeous. I loved how curvy and vivacious they were. They looked so much healthier than other models, too. I think that society needs to get the stick out of its collective ass and start appreciating the beauty of plus-size women.

Celebrities are better than us regular people

Former model Iman is above closets and storage boxes. That's just too proletariat. Instead, she stores her wardrobe on mannequins with a company called Garde Robe. In a beginning-sequence-to-Clueless way, she selects her outfit by logging onto the company's site and selecting what she wants. It's then delivered to her doorstep.

I guess if I were married to David Bowie I'd try to look my best, too.




[Source]

What I'm Lemming right now:

Patience is a virtue, and virtue is a grace and Grace is a little girl who doesn't wash her face. (Excerpt from "I saw Esau")

I'm not a very patient person when it comes to fashion. When I want something I want it immediately. I've never been that great at waiting until something goes on sale. But right now, I'm being taught a lesson in patience. There are few items that I'm dying to get my hands on, but I have to wait and save my money like a good girl. If I don't I won't have anything to spend in Northern California. That wouldn't be good, would it? Especially since it's the first time I'll be near the much-hyped H&M store.

But anyway, here's a quick round-up of things I really want, but won't buy out of sheer force of will:


Gap sandals

I saw these sandals, IRL at the local Gap store and I almost bought them. Twice. I mean I went back again and held them in my hands and got in line and everything. I want them in tan. But no, I have about a scrillion pairs of sandals already, so I put them back.


Forest Fire necklace

Tell me that necklace didn't make you stop in your tracks and stare. It's gorgeous, it's unique, it's affordable. It's unbuyable (at the moment).



Urban Kitty Slouch bag

I really like the colors and the pattern in that bag.


Seamed hose

Old school glamour at an affordable price. By why do I need these in the summer?


Distlefink skirt


Reindear shirt


1618the bag

Quirky items from Lucha Shop always grab my attention.


Bee necklace

Truth be told, I've become fairly obsessed with Erica Weiner's jewelry. I want almost every piece from her collection. Go check out her stuff! They sell her pieces at all the hip boutiques like Copacetique, Stars and Infinite Darkness, etc. - but my hint to you is that the shipping is much cheaper when you buy it directly from her.


(C Ronson Kate Huaraches)


(Dori Flats)


(Brown Braided Gaby Heels)


(Katerina Sandles)

Why oh why must Le Train Bleu tempt me with their wonderful shoe selection?!?!

Recent Purchases

I can't start the summer without buying a few little things. But I can't go too crazy because I have to save up for my upcoming trip to Northern California. I can't wait! Here's what I've bought recently:



Lloyd Dobler shirt


Large straw tote


YSL Muse Knock-off


Erica Weiner airplane necklace


Gap hoodie


Gap lace inlay cami

Discount Code for Readers!

I am pleased to announce that Coco's Shoppe is offering High Fashion Girl readers a 20% discount with the code HighFash. This code applies to both regular and sale items! Plus, at Coco's Shoppe there is always free shipping. What's so cool about this site, and what I think distinguishes it from most is that all of the items are made by eco-friendly designers with a focus on the use of renewable and sustainable fabrics. Totally up my alley! It's justifiable spending in my book. ;-)

Coco's Shoppe carries hard to find lines like Spring and Clifton, and Burning Torch. Also, be sure to check out the great beauty selection (my personal favorite is Red Flower).

Long time no see!

Hello readers!

I stopped blogging during the last two weeks of class so that I could commit my time to studying for finals. Now that my semester is over and summer lays before me in a glorious stretch of freedom; I have returned to blogging.

I need to talk about two things here: 1) the "legging" trend and 2) a great website that I drool over daily.

1) May I direct your attention to Go Fug Yourself's newest entry. They mercilessly go after the normally-fashionable Naomi Watts for her rather clueless attire:





What's with leggings all of a sudden? Leggings are bad news, people. They not-so-subtly advertise one's losing battle with cellulite. Plus, they're just so 80's Flashdance, don't you think? I struggle with the fashion world everytime there's a resurgence in 80's fashion of any kind: scrunched ankle socks, off the shoulder sweatshirts, big hair...pretty much anything that screams "hideously tacky!"

I'm all for past decades making a comeback. I love the polka-dot sweetness of the 50's, the romantic peasant look of the 60's, even the glam look of the 70's but the 80's is a decade that should never be replicated. EVER. I don't care if it's trendy. I don't care if every major label has picked up on it and now sells $6000 leggings. Don't go there. Please!

2) On a more positive note, you simply must go to Blaec. The site contains very high-end clothes, but they're all put together in immaculately structured outfits that are completely of-the-moment. So if you don't know the first thing about how to wear the summer trends, just head over to Blaec for ideas. The clothes are so stunning and tasteful. Be sure to take a closer look at the Catharine Malandrino Noir Dress, the Imitation of Christ Cherry Blossom Dress, the Manoush Patchwork Dress, and others.