What's in MY Shopping Bag?

Due to the fact that the latest trends are never further away than me picking up my computer and jumping onto the Internet, along with my obsession with online "window shopping", I have added another fabulously frugal element to my blog... "What's in MY Shopping Bag?". I may not be able to buy everything I place in my online shopping bags, but I can always edit my purchases and be sure I am buying something I absolutely love. So check in for updates with my shopping bag and see what catches your eye (good or bad). Besides, online shopping can be very budget-friendly, as long as you can catch sale items early on while your size is still available!

*Image: http://www.quickandsimple.com

The Skinny on Skinny Jeans

As many of you have already guessed, I am absolutely infatuated with skinny jeans. It took a few seasons and multiple trips to various fitting rooms until I finally warmed up to this trend. Recently, one of my friends asked about curvy girls and skinny pants and I became very intrigued. In an article I wrote nearly a year ago and re-worked for my blog a few weeks back, I discussed issues with body types and trends. Once again, I will stress that what you wear and how you wear something depends on your confidence.

From my personal experience, skinny jeans need to fit just right... everywhere. I have always played sports which contributed to my curvier figure (but mostly curvy legs). This always discouraged me from even trying on a pair of skinny jeans. However, the minute I stepped outside of my comfort zone and tried a pair of stretchy, skinny denim, I fell in love with the silhouette.

The best way to make skinny jeans work with a curvier figure is to invest in something with stretch; the more stretch, the better the pants will hug your body. Purchasing a loose pair of skinny jeans will create the illusion of a bigger figure, which is quite unflattering. Paige Premium Denim is a great company that is based on creating jeans for curvier women. Although they are not very budget-friendly, you can truly invest in the perfect skinny silhouette which will flatter a curvier figure. The best part is that these jeans will last you a lifetime (as long as you take care of them!).

Keep the wash dark. Dark colors are your best friend! Not only can you stretch your wardrobe by purchasing dark denim (which will be versatile for day or night and/or casual or slightly dressed-up) but you will transform your legs in a very positive way. You can create the illusion of longer lines with a darker pair of skinny jeans and heels (but whatever you do, stay away from flats!!!). Stay away from lighter washes because they will make your legs look bigger in a not-so-friendly way.

Most of all, have fun! I always say to have fun with trends and have fun making them work with your style and figure. If you are hesitant to purchase skinny jeans, buy an inexpensive pair from Old Navy or H&M. These stores offer a ton of skinny styles in tons of colors. You would be surprised at how flattering a pair of skinny jeans can be on a curvy figure. So give them a try, follow these tips, and find a pair that works for you.

What kind of jeans do you prefer and WHY? And how do you feel about skinny jeans on your body type?

*Images: http://www.denimblog.com

http://farm4.static.flickr.com

Turkey Day Apparel: Comfy Versus Fancy

An expandable waistline is the dreadful stereotypical thought that comes to mind when we all think of apparel in relation to Thanksgiving. With all of the wonderful holiday feasts we enjoy each year, it is no wonder that people are so into comfy clothing during this festive season. However, what does one wear to a fancy or even formal dinner during turkey day? Which style has the upper hand? How do you decide? This is survival of the fittest: comfy versus fancy Thanksgiving apparel.

I have experienced mostly laid-back Thanksgiving dinners, which require nothing more than my attendance. On the other hand, I have also been to holiday gatherings with a prerequisite of looking nice without being too dressed-up. I personally prefer to be comfy and casual but every now and then, a fun and fancy Thanksgiving celebration is welcomed by my wardrobe.

The important thing to remember about a dinner with no dress code is that you should at least wear jeans. Stay away from sweats and pajamas (unless there is some outlandish PJ tradition your family abides by). Being comfortable does not mean looking sloppy. Wear warm, over-sized sweaters (or cardigans) paired with boyfriend-fit denim. You achieve the casual look while still being effortlessly chic in the seasons’ hottest boyfriend-fit trends! Leggings are a blessing and a curse this holiday season because though they can be forgiving once you are full, they are very reminiscent of cheap, cheesy expandable waist pants created for the typical tourist at Disneyland. If you must wear leggings this Thanksgiving, make sure they are in great shape and go for some form of embellishment (zippers, buttons, lace, etc.) in order to dress up your comfy leg wear.

Dressing up for Thanksgiving can be fun. There are endless options for you to choose from in order to celebrate Thanksgiving in fancy fashion. Whether you have a more formal dinner or you simply feel like dressing up, you can do so with much ease. Stay away from black and red. Save the red for another holiday and the black for a more somber occasion. Blue and grey are perfect for dressing up because they are the hot colors of the season and can be found in very rich and vibrant hues right now. Try a sweater dress, a great tulip skirt with some colorful tights, or a tailored pair of slacks (wide or skinny legged). You can do dressed up this Thanksgiving all while being comfortable.

Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate what we are thankful for and your clothing does not have to be the centerpiece of this wonderful holiday. No matter what you wear, comfy and casual or fancy and primped, be thankful that you have a wardrobe to make these choices from. Happy Thanksgiving bloggers and followers!

This article was published in Issue 34 of The Betty at CSUN: http://www.csun.edu/~matthews/The%20Betty%20Issue%2034.pdf

*Image: http://whatshaute.com

Quick Counterfeit

Fashion is an amazing art form and the truly talented designers manufacture the most beautiful concoctions. However, copyrighting and trademarking one's work can be very difficult, as I learned from a guest speaker during my last semester in school. Because of the many loopholes around copyrighted and trademarked clothing, companies like Forever21 can exist and thrive. The downside to this counterfeit madness is that when a corrupt company like Forever21 produces a knock-off, they can potentially interfere with sales of the real/original garment. The end result: a struggling designer loses their money, credibility, and following because Forever 21 produced and sold a counterfeit item for a whole lot less money!

I have personally seen and heard too many stories like this and as a part of the apparel industry, it deeply saddens me that a clothing company will undercut another clothing company in order to produce counterfeits to turn a profit. The thing that lit a fire under my ass this time is when I was shopping online. I always check out Forever21's website to see who they may be knocking-off and what I may recognize from another designer or company, but I found an exact replica while browsing their site today! The dresses in the image above are from two different companies (Forever21 and ArdenB). One is $29.80 while the other is $78. At the same time, one is made much better than the other and was released a few weeks prior to the other's release today (that's how fast creating a mass-released fake can be). The dress on the left is polyester, rayon, and spandex while the dress on the right is polyester, nylon, and spandex.

To the naked eye, many consumers would not know the difference between these two garments, which is where a store like Forever21 will lure you in. You can pay less for a cheaply made garment that will last about five minutes, or you can invest your money in something manufactured much better that will last through many seasons! I created this website for frugal shoppers looking for quality clothing. You can afford to look great while shopping at Forever21, but at what cost? You may think you are saving a whole lot of cash, but in the long run, you may be contributing to a local designer losing their money, credibility, and following at a local boutique, which may potentially lead to the designer or the owner of the boutique losing their business!

Which dress is the original? How do you feel about Forever21 and their counterfeit business? Do you mind purchasing their poorly made clothes? Tell me how you feel and I will tell you which is the knock-off!

*Images: Forever21.com

ArdenB.com

Published Again!

Here are two of my most recently published articles from "The Betty" (the FCS department newsletter at CSUN). Please check them out and ENJOY!

Issue 33: November 4, 2009 - "Boys, Boys, Boys"

http://www.csun.edu/~matthews/The%20Betty%2033.pdf

Issue 34: November 18, 2009 - "Turkey Day Apparel: Comfy Versus Fancy"

http://www.csun.edu/~matthews/The%20Betty%20Issue%2034.pdf

The Perfect Pair?

Attention all bloggers, Christian Siriano has designed a mini-Starbucks gift card! Yes Project Runway fans, the stories are all true. Released yesterday was the designer's compact take on a Starbuck's favorite. The fabulous little card is a mish-mash of silver designs with Mr. Siriano's signature on the front. To enclose the designer gift card, is a bright, neon yellow-ish green envelope. The best part about this gift card is that Starbucks made a donation on Siriano's behalf to The Art Elysium charity. So while supplies last, scoop up your share of these FABULOUS treats!

*Images: http://blogs.starbucks.com/blog

Plaid to Meet You

Plaid has been seen everywhere lately and it is no wonder this classic pattern has made a comeback... or an appearance? I have had mixed feelings about this current trend until now. The holidays have motivated me to find plaid garments that do not remind me of the holiday season and the decorations that follow. Flannel has always been a tricky material, unless it is in a sleeping bag, and plaid has always seemed so festive in a not-so-fashion-friendly way. My recent shopping ventures have definitely opened my eyes to the possibilities that plaid brings to the table. Here are some of my tips for trying out this holiday favorite:

1.) Make sure it fits: Most plaid garments are your typical long-sleeved button-up. The fit with this style of top varies greatly among brands and price points. To make sure you are purchasing what is right for you and your figure, try on different brands and sizes until you come across the one that you feel comfortable in. This top does not have to be form-fitting and can be very fun over-sized (but remember that getting it way too big will look sloppy and definitely not fashion-forward).

2.) Step outside of the box: Since there are so many plaid tops out there, keep an eye out for a different garment. Try some plaid tights or socks, pair them with a great set of riding boots and a short skirt or dress! Or if you are not so keen on showing off your legs this season, search for a versatile scarf. Scarves are so hot and have proven their popularity throughout the past few seasons. Maybe you are in the mood for a headband. Whatever you choose to wear, make sure you do so with confidence and have fun!

3.) Dress it up: Dresses are perfect any time of year but a plaid dress can be just as tricky as a plaid flannel shirt. I have nightmares of Charlotte from Sex and the City during the Spring Fling for her first husband's Scottish heritage. Do not repeat her mistake (head-to-toe red, Christmas-y plaid). The best way to work a plaid dress into your wardrobe is to keep it short and simple. By sticking with a shorter length you can distract attention away from the somewhat overwhelming design. By wearing a blazer over a plaid dress, you can break up the pattern in a very trendy way.

4.) Make it budget-friendly: Make me proud and put your frugalista knowledge to the test. Urban Outfitters always has great sale items and they have plenty of options to choose from. Gap has stocked up on their plaid favorites for the holidays and you can save 10% on your purchase every Tuesday if you have a Gap (or Old Navy, Banana Republic) credit card. Nordstrom is perfect because they have so many different vendors which means too many choices! But be careful because some of their plaid garments can get a little bit pricey.

As always, keep an open mind about the current trend. There are tons of ways to work with your budget while staying up-to-date with this straight-from-the-sleeping bag trend.

*Image: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzLHe4kJLk2mvXJvtnSGB_s7mH2umawD7SfeXz6dZvSf1nqiTMCRf27vXeYD18SG5821BGYR8RCqdCCnX6ei0w_IrnVaIX10FVxhbF1gOQnf-mGkYCgamHI9gEl6rneoiiVG4Fl2Ose8Q/s400/2008-fall-fashion-10.jpg

15% OFF! Act Fast

Just wanted to give the heads up... I was checking out some online clothing stores today and found out that American Apparel opened a new store in the San Jose, California. Valley Fair shopping center now has an American Apparel. In addition to this information, if you visit the link below, you can save 15% before November 30th! So if you are in the area, make the most of this budget-friendly retailer and the wonderful discount they are offering (you can never go wrong with basics).

http://www.americanapparel.net/StoreLocations/Details.aspx?RetailStoreID=410

ENJOY!

Happy Sales!

Fastly approaching is yet another holiday season. The good thing about the holidays is that you can find fantastic sales at nearly any store. However, the down side is that you have to think about others and start your gift shopping (which is actually a very wonderful thing to be able to give others something from your heart). The big question is, "How do you budget your fashion urges into your holiday gift shopping?"

The best advice I can give to you all you fashion-friendly and frugal shoppers is to avoid your credit cards and start your holiday shopping early. For one thing you will avoid the holiday madness which begins during Black Friday. Although Black Friday is infamous for its astounding sales, you can find fairly good bargains before this dreadful day creeps up on you. Along with year-round sales, you can stretch your finances and maximize your budget by hiding your credit cards. If you shop for gifts early you can do so bit-by-bit all while avoiding credit card interest rates.

Fitting in your fashion urges during this holiday season can be fun and easy! If you planned well for spreading holiday cheer, then you can, without a doubt, shop frugally for yourself if need be. Keep in mind that you may be getting gift certificates and/or clothing from family and friends, but if not, you will not have to avoid buying something for yourself this holiday season.

Be creative during this festive time of year and think about what you can do next year to prepare financially.

How do you shop for holiday gifts to stay within your budget?

*Image: http://www.layoutready.com/images/sFullviews/Holiday-Sale-Poster-Sale-Poster-Design-Template-XX0611301D-F.jpg

Riding Boots, Yes Please!

While walking around Fisherman's Wharf today, I realized a whole lot more than most tourists in the area. Because of my life-long passion and educational background, I tend to recognize what people are wearing before many other things; I pay close attention to my fashion surroundings. Not only were the tourists dressed surprisingly well, but most of the ladies at the piers were sporting riding boots. Yes, it is fall and boots are so perfect this season, but people were looking especially

great in their equestrian inspired accessories.

The great thing about riding boots is that they are such a classic item. They are very tall (usually knee-high), flat, leather boots. In other words: they are HOT! You cannot go wrong with a pair of simple knee-high leather boots. There is no need to be afraid of the absence of a heel with these boots if you are used to wearing heels. The best thing about this very budget-friendly trend is that you can find a pair to fit your budget. Nearly any store/brand that sells boots has created their version of the traditional riding boot (check out any of the links to the right to find a pair that fits your style).

While many fashion forecasters find their inspiration in very unique places, it is no wonder that someone, somewhere saw these riding boots and thought they would be perfect for the fashion-friendly. They pair great with tights or leggings, skirts, and my personal favorite, skinny jeans. So this fall (and winter), join in on the wealthy sport-inspired trend. But hold onto these boots because they will be transitional with your wardrobe for years to come!

What's your favorite style of boot? There are so many to choose from, how do you decide?!

*Images: http://www.totalprosports.com/blog/wpcontent/uploads/2008/08/p1_equestrian_all.jpg

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/photos/uncategorized/2009/02/17/rage_monarch2.jpg

Beetles... Oh dung!

This is far out there, even for me, and I know when to appreciate a designers' artistic talent and representation of their individual view. However, Wednesday night I discovered that insects have silently crept their way into our fashion accessories for the moment (I hope this is only a fad). You heard me right, insects have invaded the fashion world. Now many of us have seen the infamous "Top Model" episode with the ever annoying Jade and quick-to-be friends with the cockroach. Designers have experimented with insects before, but never like this.

My first encounter with the big, shiny, black, be-jeweled beetle was Wednesday night while watching the end of "So You Think You Can Dance". It is addicting to tune in just to see what the stylists have picked out each week for both the contestants and the host. However, their wardrobe choices have been a little odd lately, to say the least. Cat Deeley (the host) is a very pretty woman and she wears clothes very well, but some stylist must have had it out for her this week. While I was focusing on the overall look she unfortunately rocked tonight, I noticed she had a sparkly black hair piece. I thought, how odd it is to be placed on the side of her head like that. I took a closer look and sure enough it was a beetle. Wow...

Next up was Glee. To make a long story short, one of the male members of the glee club was auditioning for a lead vocal in an upcoming event. He dressed to the nines in his black pants, black leather boots, and a black and blue striped sweater... with a beetle as a broach!!! WTF? Two shows in a row? Do they only have one stylist on Fox? First there is a bug in someone's hair, then there is a bug on someone's sweater?! Did I miss something?

It was intriguing to see how the stylists used the beetle differently. However, I do not think that I will be jumping on this band wagon any time in the near future. I like my accessories void of creepy crawlies and full of life (in a very different way than the insects used this past Wednesday evening).

Did you catch either of these shows? Have you seen anything like this and would you wear an insect accessory? Post your thoughts!

*Image: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikJixUPDNafuzygVup9rNXdsIpFg04RM80IU_uadaQHK3m96UQJm0WhZimPQFXmh6xfUX7XK3uEyQYFIoZWx9L7FvAtmf990hnuX05jUEQgljutIkBjqLF0Ed96l8giBuCDMiLR0zhSJJ3/s320/lavender+beetle.jpg

Sequins: Back in Style? Really?

Where did this flash of sequins fad come from? Who started it and who said it was okay to adorn apparel with them? Sequins in moderation is all right and can be somewhat attractive, but for the most part, sequins need to stay on the ice skating costumes. I received a text today from my dear friend asking, "why are sequins back in style?" Beats me! I have no clue why they are back in style and when they ever really were "in style". What is going on?

Sequins are a difficult embellishment because they are so flimsy and unpredictable. Whether they are glued or more securely sewn onto a garment, they always seem to travel away from where they are meant to be. If they are colorful, then more times than not, the color washes or rubs off the actual sequin. Purchasing something with sequins is tricky and thought-provoking. I am warning you ahead of time that it may be love at first sight with the garment full of sequins, but remember that like everything in life, it will change.

Sequins in small doses can be super fun and somewhat fashionable. I find Forever 21 seems to enjoy using sequins which cheapens their appeal (to me personally). On the other hand, Forever 21 should be the only place you purchase something with sequins on it because it is not worth wasting your hard-earned money when that garment will eventually be visually altered in a not-so-attractive way.

If you love sequins, rock it! I am not a fan and I still cannot believe their presence in the fashion world right now, even if it may be for the masses. Just because you may be considered part of the fashion mass-market, this does not mean you are required to give into something like sequins. So remember, save your money for staple and classic pieces and work your budget to find fad fashions that will disappear before you can wear them more than once.

How do you feel about sequins? Love them or hate them? How many is too many? Post your feelings!

*Image: http://www.refinery29.com/img/sequins_shopping_9.jpg

42nd and Counting

Sadly, it is Saturday night and I am shacked up in my house watching TV. Flu season is in full effect and I caught something, somewhere, from someone; hence, me at home recovering before I must work again. While flipping through my cable channels something on KQED caught my eye. I stopped and gave it a shot. The movie I stumbled upon was "42nd Street", a musical filmed in 1933. Apparently it is a classic and received four stars according to my "knowledgeable" cable company. What better cold remedy than a night of movies to get you through the flu season.

The plot is not what caught my attention, the dancing did not do it for me, and the singing was all right, but none of those aspects really jumped out at me. What mesmerized my focus was the apparel. Both the men and women were dressed from head-to-toe in what seemed to be perfectly made frocks (even in black and white film they all looked amazing!). The 1920s and 1930s are a few of my favorite moments in history as far as clothing goes. The once flapper-inspired get-ups transitioning into more sophisticated and tailored trends are beyond beautiful.

What always seems to amaze me about this time in fashion history is the quality of the clothing. Everything from the jumpers, double-breasted blazers, chest-high trousers, calf-length skirts, to the beautifully crafted capes and coats were flawless. Throughout the film I continuously asked myself, "why don't people dress up on a daily basis anymore?". It looked like such glamorous fun and the people always looked so elegant. I also wondered the entire eighty-something minutes, "what would these clothes look like in color". Such a tease!

When I watch films, TV, or anything else, I am most likely admiring the apparel (which was absolutely no exception tonight). "42nd Street" is a wonderful movie and the costumes are very memorable. If you ever get the opportunity, I recommend catching up on your fashion history with this classic, all while using your imagination to dream up the colors to go with every outfit.

What's your favorite fashion era, century, trend, or fad?

*Image: http://www.musicals101.com/News/42ndfilm.jpg

Project Runway: Female Finalists

With just one or two more episodes left -depending on how Lifetime decides to air the finale(s)- Project Runway is proving to be one of its best seasons yet (even though Michael Kors has been noticeably absent for the majority of the season). Although many of this seasons designers have been uninspiring, the final three LADIES have more than made their mark in Project Runway history.

Althea's creations are far beyond her years and she has an amazing talent for constructing unique and very wearable pieces. She always takes chances and lives in the moment, which is very inspiring. My favorite thing about Althea... she is young and has immense potential to grow and brand herself within the apparel industry.

Carol-Hannah is unique in a very different and sophisticated way. Her style is simple, chic, wearable, and fresh. She may have done dress after dress, but she put out some of the most beautiful creations this seasons. My favorite thing about Carol-Hannah is that she impressed Christina Aguilera during the Bob Mackie challenge and walked away with the winning design.

Irina. What is there to say about Irina other than she is a very intelligent designer. Her work is well thought out and constructed magnificently. She may have been portrayed as "Meana Irina" on Project Runway, but her designers more than make up for her reality TV persona. My favorite thing about Irina is the passion behind her work. She knows how to create a garment that not only looks amazing on, but stands out in a sea of fashion created for the masses.

All three ladies appeared on Live with Regis and Kelly this morning after grabbing the final three spots for the finale in Bryant Park. I am beyond excited and anxious to see what all three of them have created for their runway shows! Tune in next Thursday on Lifetime to catch the finalists at work; I know I will definitely be watching!

Which finalist do you want to win? What season stands out to you and most importantly, why?

*Images: http://images.google.com/imghp?hl=en&tab=wi

Published Again!

Here are two of my most recently published articles from "The Betty" (the FCS department newsletter at CSUN). Please check them out and ENJOY!

Issue 31: October 14, 2009 - "Fall Into Fashion"

http://www.csun.edu/~matthews/betty_31final.pdf

Issue 32: October 28, 2009 - "Now I know my ABCs"

http://www.csun.edu/~matthews/betty_32FINAL.pdf

Rent's Due: Fall Obsessions

Fall is a season that I am not all too fond of, especially when it comes to fall fashions. I have grown to shy away from the infamous autumn color palettes of deep reds, greens, and browns. At the same time I have strategically stocked up on “cool weather” essentials during other seasons (whenever possible) in order to avoid cable knit sweaters, corduroy pants, and big clunky boots, which never flatter anyone’s calves. Over the years, my relationship with fall clothing lines has developed into the epitome of a love-hate relationship; I love converting to pants from shorts, and slipping into sweaters instead of tanks but I hate the typical hues and boring silhouettes. However, this fall season seems to be different… very different. I am suddenly obsessed with so many must-have items for this season!

My first obsession is with the “boyfriend fit”. Normally I would stray away from baggy, disheveled garments, but designers have hit the nail on the head this time around. Slouchy, lightweight tees are by far at the top of my list for fall. I am not a huge fan of those terrible, too big pants that are rolled at the ankle, but I strongly recommend investing in some oversized T-shirts. They are comfortable, a little bit revealing, and look spot on with skinny pants. The best part is that you can find a shirt to fit nearly any budget!

Number two on my list of fall obsessions is the boyfriend blazer. Although the black blazer and denim look was beyond popular in the 90s, this season’s styles bring a whole other element to the once popular ensemble. Most blazers are styled after menswear but tailored for women creating an unstoppable combination for fall. The boyfriend blazer can be worn with dresses, high-wasted skirts, short skirts, jeans, leggings, etc. Trying to stay slightly warm has never looked so chic.

My third obsession is color. Finally we are not stuck with purchasing something burgundy, forest green, deep orange, or charcoal. Blue is still red hot across the boards and designers are not shying away from its potential this season. So mix it up and spruce up your fall color palette!

Lastly, I am beyond obsessed with skinny jeans… real skinny denim. This oh so popular trend caught on a few years ago and has officially made its mark in fashion history. However, this fall the skinny jean has been reinvented with more stretch and sometimes shorter lengths. In particular, Gap’s “Always Skinny” denim is very appropriate for fall; extra slim, fabulous shades, and fantastic prices! So with the weather changing, modify your wardrobe this season to break the mold of the stereotypical autumn garb.

I am so excited about shopping this fall that I must literally leave my wallet locked up in my car while I go “shopping” (because taking it with my would be hazardous to my bank account albeit positive for the economy). So search out the not-so-typical fall items and change the way you see fall fashion and become obsessed yourselves!

*This article was published in "The Betty" at CSUN. I will post the link to the newsletter with this article in it once it is forwarded to me.

*Images: Gap.com

Nordstrom.com

Oldnavy.com

SteveMadden.com