The Budget Babe

So my friend and I are taking a long girls weekend in NYC in February, and I'm SO intimidated by the "fashionista" status of that city! What should I wear so I don't feel like a fashion dud? More specifically, how do I look stylish going out (but also warm?!) —Mackenzie

I can totally relate because I feel the same way nearly every time I head into the city. Those city dwellers have it so good: The world of shopping at their fingertips, from luxury labels to the best thrift stores. And inspiration surrounds them, the architecture, the art, the PEOPLE! New Yorkers are schooled in style every day of their lives just by walking around and looking around with their eyes. And when they gather, whether at work or with friends, the learning process continues..."Where did you get that?" "Oh, look at what she's wearing!"

So how can we keep up? The good thing is that style is not uniform in New York so don't think you have to look a certain way (ahem, like Olivia Palermo). You can totally be yourself. But of course you want more concrete information than that.

What I've noticed about really stylish people, especially NYC bloggers, is that they rely on certain statement pieces - especially during the winter - to do the work for them. Think faux fur, eye-catching shoes and fabrics, and unique silhouettes. Just a single where-did-you-get-that-piece can pretty much carry you through any situation.

Let's look at some examples. Take this coat from Topshop (a store you will absolutely want to visit when you're in town!) - that bold fur collar and designer cut will do all the legwork for you, just have the confidence to wear it!

Topshop Faux Fur Collar Coat

Continue reading "Ask BB: Feeling Intimidated ... »

Zooey Deschanel did a little shopping in an eye-catching blue peacoat, classic white blouse and bootcut jeans.

Get the look for less:

See more Zooey Deschanel

UPDATE 1/15/12: And the winner is— #32 Adele! Congrats to our winner and thanks to everyone who participated.

Please note: This giveaway has ended and is now closed to further entries.

New year, new giveaway! I've teamed up with MYHABIT to offer one lucky BB reader the chance to win a $100 gift card to myhabit.com. MYHABIT is a private sale site from Amazon.com, offering up to 60% off designer brands for men, women, kids and home, with free shipping in US. The deals are dangerously good, which makes MYHABIT the perfect place to shop when you're in the market for a new coat, fab boots, special occasion dress or perfect gift.

{Shown above: My top picks currently on sale, including a (1) Splendid Sweater, $99 (down from $345); (2) Beaute Basics Neutral Eye Shadow Palette, $19 (down from $50); (3) London Fog Handbag $61 (down from $135); (4) 80%20 Oxblood Boots, $107 (down from $210)}

To enter the giveaway:

• Sign up for free at Myhabit.com.
  
• Tell me what you'd buy with your $100 gift card if you won in the comments section below.

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Giveaway ends 2/9/13. Good luck!

P.S. "Like" MYHABIT on Facebook & enter for a chance to win a $500 gift card plus a trip for two to The Standard Hotel Spa Miami Beach.