One Dress, Two Outfits for Two Seasons (BOTH for Under $135)

Now that it's February we're embarking on transitional fashion territory. It's still too chilly for open-toed shoes and mini skirts, but with a bit of strategic layering you can start to bring  a little spring into your wardrobe.

Here's one Forever21 coral dress two ways - one layered look to wear now and a hot summer ensemble for later. The best part? You're not over spending for anything, and you can incorporate pieces you already have to create even more outfits!

 


What do you think of these outfits? How would you mix it up?

Jewelry to Obsess Over (and Won't Bust the Budget!)

These days, it's hard to come by handmade jewelry that looks expensive but won't break the bank. Let me introduce you to a new jewelry designer who feels exactly the same way - Monica Maurer of Monica Ann Designs.

Monica's a self-taught jewelry designer currently residing in Atlanta. She began making her own jewelry after she asked a local artisan to create a custom piece for her, and was quoted $60. To a young student, that's like forking over your dinner money for the next two weeks. So Monica took matters into her own hands and now produces a line of high-quality, handmade jewelry at extremely reasonable prices.

As a designer, Monica says, her goal is to provide gorgeous, affordable jewelry for all types of women.

Many of her pieces involve showcasing gorgeous stones, like these.

Layla Earrings in Green Onyx, $23

Layla Earrings in Alice Blue, $23

Others feature intricate metal work.

Gold Wild Orchid Necklace, $31


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Kaci Earrings in Silver, $22



And if you don't see a piece that fits you to a "T?" Monica will custom design it for you!

For more of her fabulous designs, check out Monica's Etsy store!

What do you think of these designs? Are you into the stone jewelry trend?

What You're Missing at Marshall's

I know I talk about my love for Marshall's a lot, but now I've finally got some proof to show that if you're not in Marshall's right now you're missing out!

On a whim, I went shopping at Marshall's yesterday to see what they might have on clearance. Which, on a side note, is great to do now because it's winter clearance time and every store is making way for spring items (equaling awesome deals just for you!).

I left with 3 trendy pieces for the moment and a chic pair of coral skinny jeans for spring, all together under $70! A little secret, only one item was actually on clearance, the rest was just plain affordable.

Fun & Flirt hi-low blouse, $12.99

Chunky hi-low poncho, $15 (clearance)

Vigold coral skinny jeans, $19.99

Indigo Rein cobalt skinny jeans, $16.99

The whole she-bang for about $68!

These weren't the only great finds I uncovered! I also found turquoise Jessica Simpson platforms ($49.99), chevron print Steve Madden flats ($29.99), and more at amazingly affordable prices! To see the rest of my chic finds, check out my "Shopping Excursions" album on Facebook.

What trendy, affordable pieces have you come across lately? Will you be hitting the stores for winter clearance sales? (I know I will!)

New Year, New Fashion Resolution

I hate to make obligatory New Year's resolutions just to have an answer when someone asks, "So, what's your New Year's resolution?"

This year I'm skipping the health/fitness resolution in favor of something more fruitful (not to mention, easier to keep).

2012 will be my year of fun and fearless fashion!

I feel, as of late, that my outfit choices have turned into a routine. I have certain tops that I wear with certain bottoms and, to be frank, I'm bored.

But my big predicament is that I can't exactly afford to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe. My solution? Mix and match to find new outfits within my wardrobe, and add bold pieces to make it all look fresh.

Check out some of my inspiration!

Fashion Resolution by fashionistaerin featuring a zipper skirt

If you're looking for some inspiration for your fashion resolution check out Tumblr, Pinterest, or Polyvore!

What's your fashion resolution for 2012?

Fall Fashion Guide:10 Fun Gloves Under $100

I know in Georgia it doesn't really get cold enough for gloves until about December, but that doesn't mean you can't dream about great winter gloves! Plus, there are so many colorful options this season, it's hard not to think about gloves. 



Black gloves are always a classic! Try mixing it up with different embellishments.

Leather Lace-Up Glove, $58, Armani Exchange

Multi Stud Glove, $98, Carolina Amato

Coach Leather Gloves, $98, Macy's

Colored gloves are a fantastic way to glam up any winter coat!

Lizden for QVC, $22, QVC





Leather and Knit Long Gloves, $61, ASOS



Have fun with mixed fabrics!

Mixed Media Glove, $34, Urban Outfitters

Printed gloves are a must-have for winter! Match them to you bag or shoes.

Leopard Cut Away Gloves, $31, ASOS

Text & Cheetah Print Gloves, $38, Lord & Taylor

Gloves with furry cuffs look rich and feel super warm!

Leather & faux fur gloves, $52, ASOS

Portolano fur trim gloves, $42, Neiman Marcus

What gloves will you be wearing this winter? Will you be branching out and trying colors?

Fall Fashion Guide: Colorful Tights

The cooler weather in Georgia today has my mind reeling about fall accessories. One frosty weather accessory that isn't always used to its full potential is a pair of tights.

Tights. Sounds pretty simple, right? These days with all the wacky legwear some designers make, it's easy to get overwhelmed and not want to branch out from basic black. Well, with just a few simple tips you could rock colorful or printed tights just like a runway professional!

1. DO go for primary colors: blue, red, green, black, even yellow! Make sure they're opaque--if they're translucent it may make your look messy. Don't do bright legwear with mini hemlines, neutrals are the better solution.Try mixing red tights with an all black and white look, or color block them with a bright dress.




Burgundy tights, $7.80, Forever21



2. DON'T go for two-hued tights. Leave those for the Halloween constumes, ladies.

3. DO go for tights with a light print on them. Just make sure the print is subtle so they don't fall into the "clown tights" category. Try an argyle, diamond, or plaid print!

Diamond Grid Tights, $5.80, Forever21

4. For some, it begs to be said...DON'T wear tights with holes. Even if they're intentional, it's messy.

Will you be wearing bright tights this season? What do you think of printed legwear?