Budget Fashion

Fall runways are usually replete with plaid, but trust me, you ain't seen plaid like this before: D&G's Fall 2008 Ready-to-wear collection makes plaid look absolutely exhilarating. Every look is to die for. This is why I love fashion - the ingenuity. Just when you thought everything that could be done with plaid had been done before, you witness something like this. Plaid that's feminine. Plaid that's bohemian. Plaid that's tailored, prim and proper. But don't take my word for it. Click on over to Style.com and experience the collection for yourself. If you're feeling inspired, Forever 21 makes plaid affordable with this adorable, naughty schoolgirl number (above right). Pair with a blazer, opaque tights and heeled oxfords for your own D&G moment...for less.

>> Silky Plaid Dress at Forever21.com, $24.80

There's a certain beauty to be found in the utility of a given object. In the case of this McQ by Alexander McQueen Exposed Zip Tank (left), brought to our attention by the astute author of Cupcakes and Cashmere, the functional zipper takes the spotlight as a purely decorative element. The stark black zipper contrasted against the bold red tank heightens the effect for a look that's edgy, modern and practically perfect. The price, however, leaves something to be desired even though it's from McQueen's more moderately priced line. For a similar look, why not try Forever 21's Zipper Pencil Dress? Obviously, I have no way of knowing whether or not Forever 21 got the idea for this dress from Alexander McQueen, but it wouldn't surprise me in the least if they did. McQueen's star just keeps rising and the designer is enjoying more press and recognition than I think he's ever been given before in his career. High time.

Left: McQ Exposed Zip Tank at Shopbop.com, $213
Right: Zipper Pencil Dress, available in magenta, yellow or blue at Forever21.com, $19.80

It's not difficult to look gorgeous when you're built like Charlize Theron, but humor me: I think she's nailed a look here that we can all learn a little something from. The former supermodel and Oscar-winning actress has a style that's glamorous, sexy and yet - that adjective that seems to epitomize great style in this modern era of ours - effortless. Here, she mixes a number of trends with such finesse that you hardly notice the clothing, but you certainly can't help but notice the woman wearing them. What caught our eye: The soft, flowing chiffon dress juxtaposed with a fitted, tailored blazer. Gold accessories that glow without being gaudy. And on a practical note, that chic blazer is the perfect layer for transitioning from warm days to chilly nights. Plus, add tights and booties to this look and you'll be ready for fall.

Are you inspired by Charlize's style?

[1] Clutch, NYandCompany.com, $16.95
[2] Tiered Ruffle Dress, Expressfashion.com, $49
[3] Sunglasses, Forever21.com, $5.80
[4] Necklace, BananaRepublic.com, $39
[5] Blazer, NYandCompany.com, $41.96
[6] Stone Hinged Bracelet, BananaRepublic.com, $39
[7] Gold Sandals, Ninewest.com, $59.99

Katie Holmes has been taking a lot of heat lately for wearing her rolled-leg boyfriend jeans just about everywhere (or did she raid Tom's closet?). Personally, I love the look, and the more people judge and criticize her, the more appealing she becomes. How's that for odd fashion inspiration. Katie's got a good head on her shoulders and if she prefers to dress in a classic, modest manner rather than flashing her goodies around town for the whole world to see, that's her business. So, back to the jeans: This look has always been popular in places like Europe (hmmm...I see you're still grimacing), and it's a refreshing alternative to skinnies, which have reigned supreme for so long - although recently I've started rolling my skinnies, and I love that, too. Katie keeps the rest of her look simple and chooses neutral hues for a laid-back look that still manages to be sophisticated and chic.

So let's hear it, ladies: Do you love Katie's style or does it make you wince?

[1] Fedora, Bananarepublic.com, $59
[2] Sunglasses, Target, $12.99
[3] Black crewneck tee, Nyandcompany.com, Was $14.95 Now $10.46
[4] Studded Belt, $19.80
[5] Boyfriend jeans, Urbanoutfitters.com, $58
[6] Primo Limited Costa Bag, baghaus.com, $50
[7] Jessica Simpson flats, 6pm.com, Was $63 Now $36.45

Cowl-Neck Dress, $34.50; Silk Ruffle Top, $29.50; Denim Pencil Skirt, $32.50; Color-Block Top, $26.50, "Diva" Wide-Leg Denim Trousers, $32.50

Old Navy Women's Plus is no longer carried in stores, a move that alienated a lot of their customers. Instead, it's now offered exclusively online and features the latest fashions designed specifically for sizes 16-30. The good news is that the online store provides an expanded selection of fashion apparel that help stylish gals go from work to weekend and day to night – all at great, Old Navy prices. A classic, feminine vibe prevails throughout the new Fall Collection, which includes comfortable, sophisticated wide-leg trousers, chic tops with interesting details, and jewel-box colors that range from inky blues and purples to green and bold citron. Shop the entire line at: www.oldnavy.com/plus


Ruched-Neck Dress $36.50; Flutter-Sleeve Top $29.50, Lace Jersey-Knit Cami, $12.50, "Flirt" Flared Jeans, $32.50; Pleated-Shoulder Top, $29.50, "Diva" Denim Trousers, $36.50.


3/4-Sleeve Silk Top, $32.50, "Diva" Clean-Front Jeans, $36.50; Burnout-Stripe Cardigan, $22.50, Waffle-Knit Tank, $16.50, "Flirt" Wide-Leg Denim Trousers, $36.50; Ruffle-Collar Top, $22.50, Pleated Skirt, $36.50

I realize that I only recently did a post on how to be frugal during this shaky economy we're living in, but what can I say: The blog must go on. Happily, this post has to do with a wardrobe essential, something you will certainly wear dozens--if not hundreds--of times. Ok, maybe not hundreds, but you will certainly get your money's worth. Exhibit A (on the left) is a mid-weight jersey pencil skirt by Only Hearts, available for $84 at Shopbop.com. The fabric and elastic waist make it a flattering and comfortable choice. Exhibit B (right) is slightly shorter, which might account for the lower pricetag (I jest). The Lux knit pencil skirt has just the right amount of spandex to put some swagger in your step, and goes for $28 at UrbanOutfitters.com.

Luxe: Only Hearts pencil skirt with pockets at Shopbop.com, $84
Less: Lux knit pencil skirt at UrbanOutfitters.com, $28

As some of my dear, sweet readers have reminded me, summer isn't over just yet. This sleeveless top by Ella Moss (above left) speaks to warm weather with it's brilliant coral hue and loose-fit, yet it could easily transition into early fall with a cardigan or cropped jacket. If you like the look but not the price, the ELLE for Kohl's rosette top on the right should fit the bill. The origami rosettes are very on-trend and will bring attention to your lovely face without being overwhelming. Plus, they're a great way to do "floral fashion" even if you're not fond of floral prints.

Left: Ella Moss "Piper" Top with Embroidered Rosettes at Saks.com, $99.00
Right: ELLE Rosette Top, also available in black at Kohls.com, Was $34 Now $24.99