Quirky, romantic, and not so exorbitantly priced that I can’t afford to even think about taking the plunge. Each dress is like a perfect reminder for why I love being a girl…plus they more often than not fit the bill for my schedule which requires a dress to very easily go from day to evening.

I have spent a great deal of time thinking about what it is – oh, and trying to justify yet another gorgeous dress purchase – and this is what I’ve uncovered about why these dresses succeed every time in being so flexible for different circumstances.

Neckline – always work appropriate, but flirty enough to get you through a couple cocktails with friends. If you work in a slightly stuffier environment, not to worry – a cardigan will do the trick.

Hemline – I prefer a slightly longer hemline, falling somewhere near the knee…so this one isn’t hard for me to go with. Anything shorter than these dresses might be a little over the top for the office crowd.

Patterns – fun, lighthearted and a little bit different than most old standby ‘work-ish’ stores, I like that each dress has an added touch of personality somewhere…without being so overly done up that people the next cubicle over are embarrassed to be seen next to you.

Embellishments – a little rosette, belt or trim on the lining – each dress has something extra to get you through the work day and amp up your outfit once the office is closed.

Pricepoint – yes, I have to think long and hard before I put down the credit card…but the cost is not so high that I can’t expand my wardrobe on a regular enough basis so this becomes just the sort of thing I wear to work and the style I have when I’m out with friends at night. Consistency is so key.

Trendiness – one of my favorite black dresses is over three years old, from Anthropologie and still works whenever I need “that” dress to get me through a tough day or fun night. It is a perpetual winner because each aspect of the design continues to work while other dresses might last a mere season. Classic and dependable always wins.

Images: Anthropologie

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For that afternoon at least…I walked away empty-handed. I must think about this, I told myself. No sense in rushing into anything when the next best pair could be waiting just a couple weeks away. We’re right in the thick of fall previews and freshly stocked shelves…patience.

After further research, I’ve found the five pairs I want the most. They will be hard to resist, I will do everything I can to add them to my closet, and eventually…(I hope)…they will all be mine.

Simonelli Peep-Toe Pumps
Why I Love It: the multi-colored design makes it flexible for many different outfits and the way the heel is designed is different from anything I’ve see before.
Where I Would Wear It: A night out dancing.

Sicola Flats
Why I Love It: The strong color is always a favorite when I transition to jeans, long sleeve t-shirts and a scarf. Everything else can stay basic and the shoes can carry the outfit.
Where I Would Wear It: Sunday brunch or family dinner.

Arnes Tall Boots
Why I Love It: Soft, slouchy leather and chunky buckles…I can already smell the season change.
Where I Would Wear It: Movie date night.

Auteri Pointed-Toe Pump
Why I Love It: Classic black shoes with a dash of daring? This is my kind of heel.
Where I Would Wear It: E-v-e-r-y-w-h-e-r-e.

Ambrosio Round-Toe Pump
Why I Love It: This heel is both demure and comfortable for long days on your feet. The color is cheerful and just dying to go with a black shirtdress of mine.
Where I Would Wear It: An important meeting.

Images: Aldo Shoes

Post from: The List Maven

When trying to decide what to purchase, always think about where you have holes in your wardrobe – it doesn’t make sense to get yet another cropped blazer if you already have four in your closet and no boots to combat the slushy, rainy days! Go for pieces that have a slightly trendy flair but be careful not to go overboard and make a mistake that won’t last more than a couple of months. If you’re ready to take the plunge and start updating your wardrobe for fall, here are the twelve key areas you need to investigate.

Jackets

Fletcher Lyll Double Breasted Crop Jacket

A good jacket should serve you for at least a few years – and going with a smart casual shape and fabric will open up options for both daywear and evening events. The Fletcher by Lyell Double Breasted Crop Jacket is a good all around choice to keep you warm but still look chic on those blustery days. A neutral color will also give you more opportunities to spice things up with colorful accessories and other accents.

Scarves

Chal Carnation Pink

In my mind, a scarf is a good investment all year round. When you find one that works, it tends to stay with you either in a purse, passenger seat of your car, or perched on a dresser just waiting for the next opportunity to be worn out. My next scarf purchase is the Chal in Carnation Pink – yes, I’m a girly girl…if you tend to avoid bubblegum pink, no problem; there are dozens of other colors available for this soft, pretty scarf.

Boots

Cri de Coeur Felicity Tall Boot

I like boots with a solid heel and a hearty, tough outer layer – so that when a rainy day hits I have my bases covered. What good are boots that don’t stand up to the elements? The Cri de Coeur Felicity Tall Boot in Toffee looks like an excellent choice for a reason able price this season. Similar versions are also available in black and grey.

Hats

Lisa Shaub Fedora Bow

Have you been keeping up with all the glorious hat trends this year? Fedoras, cloches, and all sorts of romantic vintage-y variations are hot right now. I am totally smitten with this Fedora Bow from Lisa Shaub – reminds me of old movies and iconic love affairs…sigh. Am I reading too much into a hat? Possibly. But you should have one handy to keep your ears warm once the cooler weather hits!

Blouses

Naven Pretty in Print Blouse

A bold choice like Naven’s Pretty in Print blouse is perfect for tackling the season change with style. Pair it with a simple black skirt or tailored black pants and you’re all set to make a statement in that important meeting with your boss.

Pencil Skirts

Draped Pencil Skirt Magalisgarcia

The pencil skirt will last you for ages and carry forward into next Spring with ease. Don’t be shy – pick a dramatic shape like the Draped Pencil Skirt from Magalisgarcia and watch as you find new ways to dress up your old basics like a black tank top or sexy kitten heels.

Tights

Geo Block Full Foot Tights

If you are like me, you already have a pile of black tights left over from last year. Stock up on some more of those, but also venture into new territory with some daring designs like these Geo Block Full Foot Tights. They will cheer you up on even the cloudiest, muckiest day – and dress up a simple outfit in seconds.

Sweaters

co2 Solid V-Neck Sweater

You can never have too many sweaters, especially when they are as interesting to look at (and comfy cozy!) as the co2 Solid V-Neck Sweater. Even if you don’t have a ski trip planned, you will look like you are ready to hit the slopes – or just the lounge at the bottom of the mountain – in a beautiful Fall sweater like this one.

Dresses

Drop Waist Sweater Knit Dress

The sundresses need to be retired for the year and replaced with ones like the lamixx Drop Waist Sweater Knit Dress. Can’t you just see it pairing so nicely with your new boots and scarf?

Jeans

J Brand Boot Cut Jeans

Somehow Fall always reminds me of back to schoool trips to pick out new pairs of jeans. Maybe that’s why I still usually end up with a couple new pairs by the end of September. Though I prefer a style that compliments curves like J Brand Boot Cut Jeans, cigarette leg variations are still very much a yes if your legs tend to be more on the matchstick side.

Heels

Isabella Zocchi Alice Red Decollete

What season isn’t meant for new shoes? Isabella Zocchi’s Alice Red Decollete is a great choice for color, style and heel height. Not too tall that you’re going to be feeling it by the end of the day, but just enough to add a bit of sophistication. These would work well with your new jeans and sweater.

Purses

Rebecca Minkoff Persimmon Morning After Mini Bag

Finally, even though you might have stretched your Fall shopping budget a little thin, if you have anything left over, I suggest picking up a new handbag with fall colors in mind. Rebecca Minkoff’s Morning After Mini Bag in Persimmon is the perfect choice (and it’s on sale right now too!).

Images: Shopflick [/kfilt]

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By the time you get them home, the shiny allure of the newness is starting to wane…which means that now you have to be extra sure to get your money’s worth and take these puppies for a spin.

Image: Newscom

But most heels weren’t made for walking. Especially when they’re brand new and not so broken in. So after a long day of pretty (albeit unhappy) feet, they deserve some extra TLC.

Here are a few tricks to get you started when apologizing to your poor toes!

Epsom Salt. A quick bath with epsom salt will help your sore, swollen feet. The water should be warm but not too hot.

Peppermint Lotion. There is something totally rejuvenating about the smell and feel of peppermint. Apply liberally and work it into your skin.

Foot Massage. Either gently prod your feet solo or ask your loved one very nicely for a quick rub. Either way this should help unkink some of the extra tender spots.

Yoga. You might find that fifteen minutes of stretching and downward dog goes a long way in helping your feet feel like they are in tip top shape again. Use a mat and go slowly – this is supposed to be a treat, not punishment!

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Daily Makeover – The most sought after celebrity hairstyles since “The Rachel”.

Temptalia – Step by step instructions for how to get the most out of MAC’s In the Gallery Eyeshadow Quad.

Beauty411 – Go back to school on a budget with these thrifty picks!

Country Dutchess – Tricks for how to wear red lipstick without looking like you just broke into your mom’s makeup drawer.

Beautips – Myths and misconceptions around acne, such as the relationship between that angry breakout and your stress levels or makeup habits.

Glossed Over – Questions Glamour Magazine’s flimsy commitment to female figures that don’t fit the waif-ly stereotype.

College Fashion – I have been feeling the same way lately about how I dress – so I appreciate this long list of reasons justifying a daily commitment to looking your best.

Ecosalon – Get a little cash and do something good for the environment by recycling common household items that come with a second hand pricetag.

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The most important thing to keep in mind is keeping things casual, comfortable and easy to mix/match. Going with colors that are a bit more neutral so they “go with everything” makes a world of difference when you are trying to be choosy and not pack your entire closet.

Here are the ten items that always seem to find their way into my suitcase (and actually get used when I make it to my final destination).

Ballet Flats - I live in ballet flats when I’m on vacation. They look good and are wearable even if we decide to embark on an impromptu walk around the city. Nothing is worse than being sidelined in your hotel room because those pretty new heels gave you killer blisters.

Slouchy Sweater - If the weather turns and all of a sudden it actually feels like Fall, I want to be prepared with a comfy sweater to snuggle into.

Jeans - They go with everything, dress up or down as needed and just work. I don’t know why anyone wouldn’t travel without their favorite pair of jeans on hand.

Jersey Tee - Lately my t-shirt style has changed a little bit, with more color and interesting necklines/sleeves instead of your basic old version. But they remain a staple, especially when traveling. Again, unpredictable weather makes this essential absolutely key.

Big Purse - It has to carry all my regular every day necessities, plus a camera, map, and anything else that I might need for a day of vacationing. Wide armstraps for comfort and lots of pockets for convenience.

Bikini - Most hotels have a pool and a bathing suit takes up no room at all, so it would be silly not to have a bikini on hand.

Scarf - For similar reasons to the sweater, I want to have a scarf available if the weather turns. This is one thing that will likely be tucked in my big purse for the entire trip..!

Casual Dress - If the right opportunity comes up, I might just give in and put on a dress while I’m vacationing. Something that goes with my ballet flats and isn’t too fussy will do the trick.

Post from: The List Maven

My preference is for those who fall into the effortless, sophisticated category. Not too done up but always polished and put together just right for the occasion. These are the women who inspire and make fashion fun – instead of something cold and inaccessible. What is funny is that most of the actresses I look to for fashion direction tend to be other than I am – but oh so chic! While my budget may not be quite so big, here are my top ten celebrity style icons.

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Images: Bauer Griffin

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Image: Newscom

The humor. She was funny! I know it might seem a tad offensive to be so surprised by this, but wow Anna Wintour has a sense of humor. I would have never guessed this.

The dress. I am so very much in love with the black and white dress she wore. It was far less of a surprise to see her wearing something so truly covet-worthy.

The self reflection. You can tell she is very aware of the way she is depicted by the media and doesn’t take it all too seriously. I imagine you would have to once you have made it that far.

The passion. She so very clearly loves what she does. When she started talking about ‘The September Issue’ and the work that goes into that landmark issue, you could see her soften a bit – I would have guessed that she must care a great deal to do what she does, but it was heartening to see that on TV.

The insight. I will be going to see ‘The September Issue’ the day it comes out. Every little tidbit that sneaks out about what it is like to work in that office and be a part of that magic is (silly as it might sound) captivating.

The references. After so much press and speculation about the way in which her character (supposedly) was depicted in ‘The Devil Wears Prada’, it was neat to see her take it in stride and have fun with the topic instead of clamming up or getting offended.

The socks. Oh that early comment about Letterman’s socks was priceless. Can you imagine Anna Wintour commenting on something you are wearing? Like him, I’m sure you would wonder if she really did approve or the remark was in jest.

Post from: The List Maven

Well, don’t let that beautiful blow dry go to waste! These are the days where the proper steps to keep the greasies at bay will go a long way in ensuring that you get more than just 24 hours out of it. Here is what you need to do…

Image: Newscom

Pick the right conditioner. Ideally you have a combo shampoo/conditioner that will do the trick and not weigh down your locks. I prefer to go with a thicker conditioner when I’m going to keep some wave to my hair…but on days where I consider braving the blow dryer, too much conditioner will ensure I have greasy bangs before the work day is over.

Keep product off the roots. You really only need to apply gel or serum to the ends of your hair; it’s a mistake if you think starting at the roots will produce a shiny, healthy glow. If you have ever accidentally made the mistake, you know what it’s like to realize that your best bet is to hop in the shower and start all over again.

Just a pinch, not a dollup. Always start with less product, then work in more as needed. If you are using a giant glop of hair gel, it is impossible to remove it once you start. But being careful and slowly adding more if necessary, you will hit the right amount without going overboard.

Watch the forecast. The most common blow out killer? Bad weather. Keep your eye on what the weatherman is saying and make sure you pack an umbrella in case it starts to sprinkle. If you do get stuck in a monsoon, accept the fact that you just had a one day blow dry, then start again.

Ponytails are for day three. Unless you want a weird bump in the back of your hair, don’t forget to take out your ponytail before you go to bed. By day three you may find that you want to throw your hair up in a messy bun, but it’s best to not fall back on this before the end of day two.

Dry shampoo is your friend. If the greasies do find you, make sure there is some dry shampoo laying around in your bathroom. This stuff works magic on limp roots and will help make sure you can tackle day three of your blow out without worrying that anyone is catching on to your cleaver hair tricks.

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Lipstick Powder N Paint – Everything you need for a relaxing day lounging at the beach.

Style Bakery Beauty – If you have ever wondered which all natural, at home beauty tricks really work, these ladies have tried and tested them all.

Purse Blog – Hot pink is one of my favorite colors so I am especially giddy to see it come alive as a super trend for Fall.

Boutique Cafe – Where will this choose your own lipgloss adventure go? You decide.

CheapToday – Everything you should be starting to think about in order to properly transition your skin care and makeup routines into Fall.

College Fashion – Shoes, shoes, more shoes. Put away your flip flops and bring out the over the knee boots!

My It Things – The top five things you can learn from the one and only, legendary Anna Wintour.

In Life and In Fashion – Get all girly and romantic with these ruffles and ruching accents.

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