Bargain Chic

A Decade of Trends

2010-01-01T21:13:00.010-07:00

It is a new year. And if you can believe it, a new decade! It seems like this past decade was filled with so much.... stuff! From 9-11 to the war in Iraq to the boom of social media to the election of the first black American president. It is hard to believe those things and so much more happened in just ten years!

And then you have the fashions of the 00's -- every decade has their claim to fame, and all I can think of for this past decade is leggings. They seem to have taken root mid-decade and never left. But, oh, how I hope their ridiculousness ends soon. Yes, they're comfortable, but only about 1% of the population can really pull them off. Otherwise, they just look silly -- kind of like stirrup pants.

The other trend of the '00s has to be the HUGE bags. You know what I'm talking about ladies -- the kind that could quite possibly hold a toddler in it. I never quite understood why a leggy, pin-thin lady needed a purse she could literally folder herself into. Status symbol? Or, a quick escape? Whatever the reason, unless you need to carry your entire life's necessities around with you all day long, let go of the over-sized handbags... PLEASE!

And, finally, the two trends that will probably be staying around a bit longer -- the skinny jeans and the ankle boots. Okay, I'll admit, I own a pair of both. Not a true pair of skinny jeans, but as close as I will get. Yeah, they can be sexy and cute on some women, but for most, they just don't work. Same with those silly ankle boots. Unless you have legs up to your nose and they're shaped like twigs, ankle boots do absolutely nothing for most women's legs.

We've all be victims to at least one of these trends this decade, and that's fine -- it's fun to experiment with fashion and doing so is really the only way one can find their true style. I think I've finally found my fashion style -- classic pieces with a twist of whimsy and funk. And I hope to play on more of that whimsy and funk this year; to take some risks and think outside the box. And that may mean I'll try some of those trends that won't work, and some that I can add to my collection. But either way, it will be exciting to see what's in store for this new decade.

And to neatly wrap-up this past year's fashions, I've put together a collage of some of the great deals I found in 2009. Enjoy and Happy New Year to all!

Happy Valentine's Day
(posted February 13)

Vogue Dress, LuLu's, $49

Both Sides, Now

(posted March 31)

Classic Cocktail Party Dress, ModCloth, $74.99

My Ruffle Paradox
(posted April 11)

Ruffle Round Toe Flat, GoJane, $12

Short Skirt/Long Jacket
(Posted August 22)

Chinese Laundry Makers, Piperlime, $39.99

Rocker Chic
(posted November 6)

Deux Lux Studded Hobo, Urban Outfitters, $49.99

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2009-12-19T18:51:00.012-07:00

Christmas is one of my favorite holidays -- I love baking cookies, wrapping presents, spending time with family and, of course, decorating. My place is relatively small, but I always love adding new decorations to my growing collection of holiday ornaments and tchotchkes. Decorating always gets my in the spirit of the holidays, and I wanted to share some of the spirit with you.

Here are some photos of my Christmas decorations. Being a Phoenix girl, we don't really get that wintry Christmas feel (i.e.: cold temps & snow), so my little inside "winter-wonderland" look has helped me get that cozy and festive feeling.

And here are some classic Christmas decor items I found on the Web. I'd say most of them are fairly affordable, but of course after the holidays, they'll be really affordable!

12 Days of Christmas Ornaments, Crate & Barrel, $39.95; Golden Star Christmas Tree, Gump's, $45

Pre-Lit Poinsettias, Brylane Home, $24.99; Elegant Reindeer, Pier 1 Imports, $35 ea.

"Designer" Gifts For Less

2009-12-03T19:36:00.007-07:00

I recently had the opportunity to guest blog on Shop It To Me's blog about inexpensive gift ideas for those who love designer items. The blog post is below. And, if you're interested in signing-up for Shop It To Me e-mails click here -- it is a great way to keep up-to-date on the latest apparel sales on the Web. (Shop It To Me sends customized e-mails of clothing sales by brand or retailer you've pre-selected.)

We all know at least one person who emphatically declares like Rachel Zoe, they “die“ for designer items. They covet designer logos, expensive fabrics and haute couture looks like a girl on a diet craves chocolate. And trying to please them is not always easy on a recession-thin wallet. But this year, in particular, with stores trying to reeve up their revenues, you can find plenty of designer-like items out there that ooze the sophistication and luxury of those pricey brands. Here are just a few chic gift items that can satisfy any of your designer-obsessed friends or family members this holiday season:

For that girlfriend smitten by the luxe look of designer handbags, check out Urban Outfitters’ Deux Lux Studded Hobo. It’s stylish, PETA-friendly (its faux leather if you can believe it!) and only costs $68.

Or, for your Sex in the City obsessed sister, pick up a pair of these Carrie-inspired Poetic Licensed pumps from Lori’s Shoes for a mere $88.

How about spicing up your mom’s play-it-safe wardrobe with a biker-inspired leather jacket, like this one from Frenchi for $168.

And, don’t forget about your stylish aunt, who loves one-of-a-kind items like this fancy and oh-so-chic From O’Keeffe Necklace from Anthropologie for $48.

Finally, we mustn’t forget about the men in our lives. Although most of them could care less about designer items, there may be a few fashion-forward fellows who dig those lavish looks. So, to please them, how about a bit of classy cashmere in the form of a scarf or sweater from J.Crew ( $68 and $62 respectively.)

So, the next time your Louboutin-loving friend or Chanel-salivating relative mentions a “too-die-for” extravagance, just know that with a little bit of searching, you can get them that designer-inspired item without that designer price-tag -- and, they’ll love it just the same!

Thanks for the Blogs!

2009-11-25T20:42:00.028-07:00

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I wanted to extend a heartfelt "thank you" to some of my favorite blogs for providing me with inspiration, laughs and a do-good attitude. I'm in awe of the many creative and talented people in the blogosphere -- their witty and unique perspectives on everything from fashion, to interior design to spreading kindness around the world brings a smile to my face nearly every day.

Thanks for the inspiration
The Sartorialist
A collection of photos taken by fashion photographer Scott Schuman showcasing stylish everyday and not-so-everyday (i.e. models) people from around the world.

I love being a voyeur of our ever-evolving fashion world. I'm constantly inspired by the photos of unique, extravagant and simple styles. It is constantly making me think outside my own little fashion box.

**********************

The Scoop
A designer/fashion/artist blog from the girls behind OrangeBeautiful, a design studio of all paper things handmade: books, cards, stationary, etc.

They post their favorite items, which often become mine too. They've got great taste, and they often post links to other cool Web site that I would never have discovered if it wasn't for their great blog.

**********************

Fashion is Spinach
An irreverent and witty fashion blog written by the editor of The Washington Posts' FW.

A creative look at fashion through the eyes of a woman who loves it as much as I do, but has the wherewithal to live and love it in her work and life. Each post really conveys her enthusiasm for style and design, and it makes me open my mind to perceiving all those "pretty things" with as much joy as she has for them.

Thanks for the laughs
dooce
A hilarious account of being a hip mom raising two precocious kids and two totally cute dogs. Oh, yeah, and there is a supportive husband in the mix too.

Not only is she a fantastically funny writer, she also takes beautiful photos of her daily life, cute videos of her five-year old, and shares some of her favorite things. I can always count on her posts to make me giggle.

**********************

PassiveAggressiveNotes.com
"Painfully polite and hilariously hostile writings from shared spaces the world over."

Classic. Relatable . And, spit-out-your-drink funny.
(I've even submitted one.)

**********************

Oprah's Not the Only One with Favorite Things
An ongoing list of favorite things, with clever musings about why you should make them your favorite things too.

My friend and co-worker Nadia started this blog because she loves to shop and she loves to share her finds. She always keeps it real with a bit of funny thrown-in.

Thanks for the do-good attitude
Operation Nice
A blog that "encourages people to be proactively nice."

It is my go-to-place for daily doses of goodness. Amidst all the anger, resentment and hostility in the world, this blog reminds me that there are people that still take time out of their day to think of others and be kind. There are stories about acts of kindness, assignments on how to be nicer, and links to other Web sites that promote goodwill towards others.

"Thank You" again to all these great bloggers for opening their lives, their opinions and their great finds to the masses.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Pure Dead Brilliant

2009-11-13T20:50:00.013-07:00

The Scots are a funny bunch -- they like to laugh; they like to drink; and they do both in their famous Scottish brogue. Their delightful and robust attitude towards life is enough for me to adore their culture. But what makes them even better are two special gifts they unknowingly gave to the fashion world: plaid & houndstooth -- two prints that have withstood the test of time.

Every decade from the late 19th century until today has seen its share of clothing bedecked in plaid or houndstooth. From ornate and cumbersome Victorian dresses to the grunge flannels of Gen-Xers, these prints have carried us through every trend, every style and every piece of clothing we've worn.

And this season is no different. Plaids and hounstooth are back and as the Scots like to say, "pure dead brilliant!" From sexy, curve-hugging dresses to boisterous pumps, these prints are ready to make an imprint on a new century.

Designer Looks

Houndstooth Sheath Dress, Alexander McQueen, $1595; Double-collar Shirt Dress w/Belt, Lela Rose, $995

Bargain Looks

Satin/Plaid 2-Fer Dress, Jodi Kristopher, $46.23; Sleeveless Houndstooth Dress, Jessica Simpson, $87.99; Poetic License Good Vibrations Pumps, Lori's Shoes, $88

Rocker Chic

2009-11-06T18:25:00.009-07:00

These days it isn't very hip to be square. Everyone from your grandma to your best friend's baby are tossing aside their cardigans and pastels for the rockin' tough chick look. That means this season it is all about fitted leather jackets, stick-thin, gravity defying stilettos, and studded, chain-linked handbag. And let me tell you, this look is kicking ass and taking names. Hey, sometimes you just gotta be a little bad.

Designer Looks

Leather Motocross Jacket, Vince, $750; Drape Bootie, Dior, $1090; Pelham Shoulder Bag, Gucci, $1695

Bargain Looks

Big Chill Faux-Leather Jacket, Dillard's, $49; BCBG Paris Lyric Patent Platform Bootie, DSW, $59.95; Deux Lux Studded Hobo, Urban Outfitters, $68

Couture Halloween

2009-10-30T21:01:00.006-07:00

Halloween is one of my most favorite holidays. Although I don't dress up or celebrate it the way I used to, I still enjoy the silliness and spookiness of it all. This year my work had a Halloween BBQ and a few people dressed up, including me (I was Betty Draper from Mad Men). It was so much fun to have one day where people indulged in a little fantasy -- whether it was something scary or ghoulish, or outrageous or funny.

And that is what made me starting thinking about the fantasy element of fashion. There are a few designers, like Galliano, Lacroix and Gaultier, who transform their fantasies into beautifully dramatic clothing and display them in fantastical and theatrical runway shows.

Below is the inspiration for this post. It is a Galliano dress from his Spring 2010 Ready to Wear show in Paris. To me the dress exuded a slightly macabre yet deliciously seductive sensibility. Exactly what the fantasy of Halloween is all about!

John Galliano, 2010 Spring Read to Wear
(photo credit: style.com)

Bargain Looks

Zoe Lace Dress, Bebe, $139; Polaris Dress, ModCloth, $99.99; Flutter Tier Ruffle Dress, White House Black Market, $98

Where the Wild Things Are

2009-10-18T12:37:00.008-07:00

Just like the title from the beloved children's book, Where the Wild Things Are is a great testament to the fashion world's raucous love affair with animal prints. Whether it be the sultry spots of a leopard or the unruly stripes of a tiger, fashion is indebted to these frisky felines. And this season, animal prints are all the rage.

Taken in small doses -- a belt, shoes or a bag -- this bold print can add a bit of spice and sexiness to a simple outfit. Or, in bigger doses, like a dress or blouse, the look can be dramatic and awe-inspiring. Just be careful, though. Too much animal print can make you look more like a cat on a walk than a fabulous woman on a catwalk.

Designer Look

Leopard Sheath Dress, Oscar de la Renta, $2190; Leopard Tie-Front Blouse, Dolce & Gabbana, $1195

Leopard-Print Pump, Dolce & Gabbana, $695

Bargain Look

Cheetah Print Sheath Dress, Jessica Simpson, Macy's, $128; City Style Puff Sleeve Knit Leopard Top, New York & Company, $24.46

Women's Coddle Pump, Not Rated, Endless.com, $44.95

Fifteen Minutes of Fashion Fame

2009-10-09T20:13:00.012-07:00

It seems over the past few years every celebrity with fifteen minutes or fifteen years of fame has started a clothing, accessory or shoe line. Many of these attempts have failed and been forgotten, while a few have managed to succeed and have longevity in the fickle fashion world.

Of the celebrity fashion lines that have risen above the fray, they all vary in price and style. From Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen's Elizabeth & James' purposefully disheveled and trendy fashions to Bono & wife's eco-friendly t-shirt and casual wear Edun brand, some celebrity clothing lines are, in my opinion, a bit overpriced and, well, boring.

But then comes a long a few gems. And by gems, I mean clothing and shoe lines that are trendy yet chic, classy yet daring, and affordable yet luxe-looking. Yes, there are some celebrity clothing lines like L.A.M.B. and Sienna Miller's Twenty8Twelve that are on the pricier side, but their stuff looks high quality and, yeah, wearable.

Here are a sampling of some celebrity clothing and shoe lines -- which, by the way, have some hits and misses in their collections, but nevertheless have a few stellar pieces that stand out.

Watercolor Ruffled Dress, LC Lauren Conrad, Kohl's $41.99
(Not a huge fan of Lauren Conrad, but a friend told me about this cute dress from Lauren's line at Kohl's and found it adorable! And, well, also the inspiration for this post.)

Boucle Dress, Jessica Simpson Collection, $128

Jacquard Bandeau Dress, Kate Moss for TopShop, $160

"Katie" platform pumps, Jessica Simpson Collection, $89; Prestige pumps, Carlos by Carlos Santana, $91

"Rae" sandals, L.A.M.B, Zappos, $260; "Turpin" Jacket, Twenty8Twelve, ShopBob, $460

Dressing Etsy

2009-09-27T20:06:00.005-07:00

My journey through Etsy-land has been profound and prolific. I've found so many great and unique items, and I know there are so many more to discover. For my final installment of promoting all things Etsy -- but in no way my final posting of Etsy finds -- I present to you some sophisticated yet quirky, comfortable yet classy Etsy-certified dresses. Enjoy!

Donna Dress, BelleNoel, $120; English Rose Ruffle Dress, Lirola, $117

Orange Leaves Dress, Katyaskvo, $229

This Floral Life, Replicca, $40; PR Dress, Carol Hannah, $275 (she is a contestant on Project Runway!)

A Handmade Tale

2009-09-18T20:34:00.016-07:00

Once upon a time, a sprightly young girl was salvaging through the vast and often unpredictable forest we shall call "the Web" looking for some unique and undiscovered accessories. She wanted jewelry that wasn't mass produced or purses that every other woman had hanging from their shoulder. She wanted... an Etsy-find!

She quickly typed in e...t...s...y... .com, and was whisked away into a word of quirkiness and eccentricities. A place where craftiness wasn't a trait to condemn, but a valuable asset to promote.

She found handmade items galore and vintage finds a plenty -- she had found the mother lode of unique and wondrous gems: peacock headband, lovely necklaces, chic convertible totes and rose petal scarves. And the prices weren't bad either!

With a wave of excitement, she clicked "Buy," "Buy," "Buy," and was elated in knowing that her finds were exactly what she was looking for.

When they finally arrived at her front porch, she was excited to try them on. She starred confidently at herself in the mirror, knowing that she would carry these one-of-a-kind pieces with love and pride.

From that day on, she was hooked on that magical place called Etsy!

Pretty in Peridot Ring, $18; Love Necklace, $27 (both from PianoBenchDesign s)

The Beatrice - Handfelted Scarf, $70, Azul; Diana Feather Headband, $18, LiveInStyle.

Vintage 60s GOLDY Heels, $42, DearGoldenVintage; Vintage Cream & Bow Fedora, $34.50, Pudding

Nap Sack/Shoulder Bag, $89, Mims; Amber in Mahogany/Wine Red, $110, StudioOneDesigns

Etsy-a Great Find

2009-09-03T21:25:00.011-07:00

If you haven't yet heard of the handcrafter's marketplace called Etsy, then I beg of you to visit the Web site immediately and peruse the countless hand crafted jewelery, clothes, art pieces, furniture and antiques that populate this wonderful collection of people's varied talents. And, because there is so much to view, the site designers have added some very functional features for discovering the many treasures that can be found there.

In my curious visits to the Editors' Picks, Gift Guides and Featured Artists, not to mention the daily newsletter of themed finds, I have come across some one-of-a-kind pieces that are affordable and memorable. It's also a bonus helping out independent artists and designers. I always imagine how happy they must be for every purchase; knowing that someone wants their creation.

In an effort to promote independent labels, I'll be doing a few series of blogs highlighting some great pieces I've discovered on Etsy.

First up, a Fall preview of cozy sweaters & stylish jackets.

Sapphire Blue Cowl, $55, Replicca; I need a flower Shrug, $84, Laslopezlas; Rosemont Sweater, $145, LittleHouses

Goldsboro Jacket, $140, LittleHouses; Unusual Coat, $199, Agnieszka Swiatly;

Short Skirt/Long Jacket

2009-08-22T20:41:00.013-07:00

So, I've noticed that the short skirt and long jacket look is a trend that has been making the fashion waves this year, and I suspect it will continue to morph into more styles in the upcoming seasons. What I love about this trend is that it perfectly illuminates the meaning of Cake's song "Short Skirt/Long Jacket" -- the sexiness of juxtaposing two extremes. What is more alluring than revealing some skin, while keep the rest hidden? That is exactly what the look does, plus adds a bit of rock n' roll edge. I think it is a great look for going out and painting the town red -- and maybe kickin' it in your white Chrysler LeBaron.

Here's the look, with some selection of short skirts and studded heels and a flat.

Long Boyfriend Jacket, Express, $79.50

Striped Crinkle Mini Skirt, bebe, $59; Organza Tiered Skirt, Twelve by Twelve, $22; Tara Jarmon Mini Skirt, Yoox, $39

Jessica Simpson Laverna, $79; Chinese Laundry Makers, $60; Naughty Monkey Close Encounter, $59.99. All Piperlime.

Mad About Mad Men

2009-08-08T19:27:00.019-07:00

I've caught the Mad Men bug. I started watching the AMC show last year and was sufficiently hooked. I am totally appalled by the sleazy and misogynistic world of the early 1960s, yet thoroughly enthralled by the incessant smoking, cheating and disregard for political correctness. And of course, the clothes! The clothes are what make the show authentic, and I love the well-fitted and figure enhancing styles that were popular then. I also appreciate that women back then took the time to care what they looked like. Yes, wearing a dress with heels and pearls while making dinner seems ridiculous to most modern women of the 21st century, but just the idea that they put thought into what they wore is refreshing. Don't get me wrong, though. I am a t-shirt and jeans kind of girl, especially when I am not at the office, but when I have to dress up, I do it with intention and sophistication.

I'm not alone in finding inspiration in this show. It seems the Mad Men look has found its way onto quite a few runways and stores. Michael Kors (one of my favorite designers) had a whole Fall line (in 2008) themed after the show, and now Banana Republic has partnered with the show in creating a line for their store as well as promotional tie-ins for sales and such. In fact, I just picked up a few pieces from Banana Republic this weekend -- an adorable Betty Draper inspired full-skirted dress and a Joan Holloway sultry pencil skirt and clingy top. (All that is missing are the curves!)

In addition, I found some other great looks around the Web. And of course, as Bargain Chic always does, I'll start with my inspirational "Designer Look" and then my bargain find.

Designer Look

Jason Wu Beaded Sheath Dress, $2300, Leather Belt, $460, Bergdorf & Goodman

Jimmy Choo Patent Platform Pump, Bergdorf Goodman, $750

Bargain Look

Shabby Apple Evita Dress, $114; BB Dakota Grey Lola Dress, chickdowntown.com, $79; Liz Claiborne Cotton Ikat Dress, $49.99

Lake Paid-cid Top, $34.99; Peggy Pencil Skirt, $69.99; both Mod Retro

Edme & Esyllte Hattie V-Neck, Anthropologie, $68; Liz Claiborne Cheetah Print Silk Pencil Skirt, $44.99

fredflare.com Sunset Tie Blouse, $52; Anthropologie Fluttering Pencil Skirt, $158

Luichiny Dahlia Open Toe Pump, $45; Seychelles Yes Ma'Am Mary Jane Pump, $72.11; Naughty Monkey Lopsided Pump, $72.83; all endless.com

P.S. For more great looks, remember to tune in for Season 3 of Mad Men, starting next Sunday, August 16.

Say It's Your Birthday!

2009-08-04T10:39:00.007-07:00

Today is my 32nd birthday. I'm officially in my 30s now. Yikes. I still feel like I'm 21. It is amazing how quickly a year goes by. It seems like I just had a birthday. When I told my mom this, she laughed and said, "that's what happens when you get older." Thanks, Mom -- you always put things in perspective for me.

I figured today of all days, I'd post a little selfish piece for me. My fashion birthday wish. The ultimate birthday dress. I found two! One is more sophisticated and classy; the other one is fun, flirty and bold. I'd say for the most part, those two types of dress express exactly who I am -- sophisticated but also a little sassy.

So, here's to a great 32nd year and a little extra sassy in my step.

Sophisticated & Classic

Beach Grass Dress, Anthropologie, $168

Lotus Patent Sandal, Jimmy Choo, $735

Fun & Flirty

Wilcox Dress, Anthropologie, $289.95

Patent Sandal, Manolo Blahnik, $308

A Much Needed Vacation

2009-07-31T19:57:00.008-07:00

So, my last mini-vacation to San Fransisco wasn't really a vacation -- it was so short and jammed-packed with activities that when I got back home I felt I needed a vacation from my vacation. Well, the time has come for a week of doing absolutely nothing. The last two months have been non-stop for me. Work has kept me extremely busy with late, late nights, into the morning days and weekends spent trying to catch up on lost sleep.

I think it finally hit me early this morning, around 5 a.m., while I sat staring at my work computer wondering when the Legislature -- that which provides me my daily work -- would get their work done. I realized I needed a break. I needed sleep. I needed boredom. I needed to just lay in bed in the morning and watch the entire Today show. I needed to finish the book I've been reading for six months, and start the others I have been wanting to read for the past year. I needed to not blow dry my hair, wear makeup or heels for one whole week. And, I needed to do all this in as little clothing as possible.

So here's my plan. Bikinis all week. Bikinis all under $30. Ahhhh, vacation. Yeah!

From l to r: Old Navy, Target (blue & green bikinis) and Victoria's Secret

And this is where I'll be wearing them...

Giving the Cold Sholder

2009-07-31T17:47:00.006-07:00

I really like this new trend of the eighties throwback to the one-shoulder dress. It reminds me of a sophisticated take on the off-the-shoulder sweatshirt from Flashdance. It is an alluring look -- just-enough-sexy without being obvious. I prefer the shorter, slim, curve-hugging one-shoulder dresses, which look more modern than the long, flowing kind that tend to look like you are wearing a toga.

Here, with my designer inspiration piece, are a few one-shoulder dresses that take the trend and gives it a twist of chicness.

Designer Look

Pailette Dress, Michael Kors, $1995

Bargain Looks

Ivory Taffeta One Shoulder Dress, Aqua, $168

Georgia Dress, French Connection, $168

Hide Tide Dress, Mod Retro, $74.99

I'll Have the Gellato!

2009-07-21T20:08:00.015-07:00

It has been officially summer for about a month now, and with temperatures reaching ridiculous high numbers in the Southwest (I'm talking 115, people!), I'm nearly ready for the season to end. The only thing that keeps me going is the bounty of gelato-colored fashions cooling off my senses. The scrumptious blueberry-colored shirts, tart tangerine frocks and shockingly bright lemony shoes are giving me a sugar high just thinking about them. So, you too can bask in the yumminess of summertime colors, here is a sampling of some delicious looks that go from gelato joint bargain buys to get your own gelato joint pricey.

Picnic in Paris Dress, Mod Retro, $54.99

Rave Review Sandals, $50; Sweet Petunia Necklace, $48 (both Anthropologie)

Terasina Dress, Anthropologie, $118

Turnaround, Seychelles, $64.99; Windflower Necklace, $38

Halter Twist-Front Dress, Badgley Mischka Platinum Label, $520

Nelly, Via Spiga, $109.99; Flora Shapes Necklace, Anthropologie, $48

Daydream Believin'

2009-07-05T21:07:00.008-07:00

I've had quite the hectic work week -- non-stop activity and some very, very long hours at work. But as I saw the light at the end of the tunnel, I kept thinking about how great it would be to escape this hellish week by finding a remote island, where I could bask on a beach, sipping a Mai Tai and doing absolutely nothing.

Of course, this was only daydreaming, as I was awakened to the realization that my crazy week wasn't quite over. But that short mental vacation helped ease my weary, computer-hazed eyes and gave me a small pick-me-up for what may lay ahead. And even though my impossibly, delicious beach vacation is highly unlikely, I can still pretend by looking the part.

Here are some great beach-bum looks that ooze that relaxed, do nothing because I'm on vacation look.

Metallic-Gauze Swim Cover-Up, Old Navy, $24.50

Boyshort set, Victoria's Secret, $20

Linen Knot-Front Dress, J.Jill, $54.99

Nautical Geo Tank Dres, Echo, $68

I HEART San Francisco!

2009-06-17T21:38:00.013-07:00

I just got back from a short trip to San Francisco with a good friend to see another good friend from college. This was my first visit to this lovely city, and I was truly impressed. I walked my legs-off (really, honestly, my legs were so tried, they just upped and walked off my body!), ate a lot of fantastic food and, of course, did some major shopping.

And even though I often hear how "expensive" San Fran is, I was able to find some fantastic deals on some cute and unique goodies. And because you all know how much I love to shop and how much I love a deal, I must share my finds. (They were all under $40, by the way!)

So here we go...

I found this barrette at an art fair in the Embarcadero area. (I also got a bracelet, but I couldn't find a picture of one on the artist's Web site.) They are made from real flowers, hand-made, and absolutely beautiful! Made by Ricciardi Design.

$19.

Of the many neighborhoods we visited, I really enjoyed Hayes Valley for its cute boutiques and one-of-a-kind shops. I was able to find a clever housewarming gift for my sister at a store called Lavish. It's a coaster, a place card and a doodle-pad. That's right, you can write on these hip pads of silicone. I snagged the last one on the table. But you can find one for yourself at modern-twist.

$24.

Another tiny shop we came across in Hayes Valley was called Little Otsu. It was filled with quirky stationary, journals, planners, and other paper products. As I was perusing the products, I saw a silly little book called the Non-Planner Datebook. It was quirky and creative, and I had to have it .

$16.

Our last day there, we decided to visit The Haight. Unfortunately we went when there was a festival celebrating all that makes The Haight The Haight. Lots of people, a little smelly, a lot dirty, but very entertaining. Amidst all those hippies and wanna-be hippies, was an eccentric store called Loyal Army. As we walked in, we saw a hilarious t-shirt that had a cartoon pancake with steaming butter dripping from it saying "I'm a hot mess!" Fun stuff! After combing through the other funnies, I decided on a more "serious" statement.

$19.50 (I got 20% off, so it was only $17).

Finally, I had to get some of San Fran's famous sourdough bread. Actually, a friend from work wanted me to get him some, so when I got his, I thought -- why not get one more for moi?!" So, I did. A fresh and delicious loaf from Acme Bread Co. And, to add a little sweetness to it, I bought some lick-your-lips lavender-infused honey from a local producer -- Marshall Farm.

Sourdough bread, $4; Honey, $8

Lions & Tigers & Sandals... oh my!

2009-05-31T21:15:00.008-07:00

When the gladiator sandal first came out, I thought it looked a little silly, especially the high-fashion ones that looked like strappy-sandal boots. They've been toned down since and have become much more wearable for everyday gals like myself, who don't need to look like a gladiator, but rather just a mere defender of stylish fashion.

These sandals are a great alternative to the flip flop. You can wear them with everything from shorts to sundresses, and they will always make you look a lot more put together than lame flip flops! Ohhhh... and the colors! Say good-bye to boring brown leather sandals, and say hello to blues, oranges, and metallics!

Designer Look

Bette Gladiator Flat, Kate Spade, $225

Bargain Looks

Empress Jeweled Gladiator Sandal, Restricted, $49.95

Gemma Gladiator Thong, R2, $34.95

Sicilly Gladiator, Madden Girl, $29.95

Bargain Chic Bake Sale

2009-05-19T19:36:00.006-07:00

Over at one of my favorite blogs, Operation Nice, I came across a posting about a fantastic event called the Great American Bake Sale. I thought it sounded like a wonderful way to make a small difference in the world. So, I'm asking you -- Bargain Chic readers -- to help me raise money to help end childhood hunger by participating in the Great American Bake Sale.

This year the Great American Bake Sale is like no other -- it has gone bakeless! You don't even have to take off your favorite sample sale Louboutins or your favorite vintage-find Valentino. Just buy a virtual baked goodie and feel goodie about helping stop childhood hunger.

I know we are all in a money crunch nowadays, but even a donation of $5 can make a huge difference to a child's life. I've started the ball rolling and have donated $10. My goal is only a $100, so I know my Bargain Chic friends can help reach that goal and hopefully go beyond it. Visit my donation page and let's start making a difference. And, to get you inspired, here is an oh so chic cupcake apron!

Baker's Delight Apron, Anthropologie, $32

Sundress Challenge

2009-05-14T18:56:00.008-07:00

It is officially summer in Phoenix -- this week's temperatures have been in the triple digits with no cool down in sight. I'm a native, but the initial shock of 100+ degree weather has always took me by surprise. Eh gads!

But I guess I need to just admit my defeat to the sun and look forward to the next four months of my summer wardrobe. And, let me tell you, this summer I'm planning on embracing as much as possible the lovely and oh-so-effortless sundress.

Yep, I'm making it official -- the challenge is on! Sundresses will be my friend this summer. In fact, I'll take this a step further and challenge YOU, my fellow Bargain Chic-ers, to join me in shedding your shorts and casting-off your capris for the cute, comfy and oh, so chic sundress!

Hip, Hip, Hooray!!!

And for inspiration, here are some great sundresses that can hopefully entice you to take on this chic challenge. Good luck and good -- summer -- night!

Sundress Inspirations

Linen-Blend Ruffle Dress, Old Navy, $29.50

Bohemian Rhapsody Maxi Dress, LuLu's, $53

Twist Strap Tiki Print Dress, Ann Taylor LOFT, $69
I just bought this one -- it has pockets (so cute)!

Silk Twist-Back dress, Banana Republic, $69.99

Etty Dress, Anthropologie, $79.95

Ahoy, Matey!

2009-05-01T20:30:00.008-07:00

I'd say for the most part, nautical-inspired looks can either come across as a little -- how shall I say it -- over-the-top theatrical, or if done subtly they can look fresh and sophisticated. Here is an absolutely perfect example of how to do the nautical look correctly -- and of course, no one can do it better than Ralph Lauren. But, if you are looking for a bargain alternative, I also have an option that exudes that same all-American look.

Designer Look

Tatiana Cotton Ruffle Dress, Ralph Lauren, $265

Bargain Look

Boardwalk Dress, American Eagle Outfitters, $44.50

Suiting up for a Sizzling Summer

2009-04-25T22:08:00.007-07:00

This week Mother Nature must have had a hot flash because it hit 100 degrees in Phoenix! Not that it was totally unusual, but having it hit triple digits before May is often a tell-tale sign of a brutal summer. My fingers are crossed that this was just a freak weather occurrence.

On a positive note, however, the hot temps got me thinking about my favorite part of summer -- lounging by a pool or possibly a beach in a cute, little bikini! I started perusing the Web for some cute looks for this season, but found a lot of the same-old, same-old. The whole 50s inspired swimsuits are still popular, and they are definitely cute, but I've already been there and done that in a post last spring.

So, what I found and wanted to share are some swimsuits that cover the spectrum of styles this summer. I've got geometric prints, jewel-tones, mixed prints and stripes. Take your pick and then get ready to take a dip - ha!

Ring Bandeau & Side-Cinched Skirtini, Delias, $59

Racerback Sliding Halter & Gold-Ring Low-Rise Bottoms, Victoria's Secret, $49

Beaded Floral Triangle Top & Floral Print Double-String Bottom, Victoria's Secret $33.98

Alli Top & Bottom, ViX, $79

P.S. I know they are all bikinis, so if that isn't your style, send me some suggestions (links) to the swimsuits you'd love to wear this summer.