Feminine, flowy forms dominated many Spring 2008 runways as did prints and palettes inspired by art. Christian Lacroix was no exception: At left, a floor-length loose fitting maxi dress is drenched in an exuberant watercolor design. But how to take this look from the realm of fantasy into reality? Try this very accessible chiffon bubble hem top from Wet Seal (right) for just $20.50. Wear it now with a smart jacket or knit shrug to prefigure fashionable things to come.



Left: An artistic look awash with watercolors from the Christian Lacroix Spring 2008 Ready to Wear collection. Image source: Style.com
Right: Wet Seal Chiffon Bubble Hem Top, $20.50

Old Navy is playing catch up with budget fashion powerhouses like H&M, Target and, we would add, Forever 21: Thanks no doubt to Creative Director Todd Oldham, the family-friendly Gap brand is getting a face lift that will include faster turn-around collections and more fashion-forward apparel and accessories.

All we can say is it's about time. We haven't purchased a thing from Old Navy in YEARS (except some gifts for relatives and friends' kids in the under 10 age group). It's not that they're a bad store per se, it's just that they don't offer us anything we can't get at the other aforementioned retailers - they don't offer better style, better quality or better prices. So why bother?

Having said that, we will definitely take the time to check out the new looks (expect an urban safari collection in February, Palm Beach in March, Hawaii surf appeal in May and glitz and glamour come June.) We frugal fashionistas are growing in strength and numbers and we need more options. Fortunately, the market is taking note and evolving to meet our needs.

Here's to the New Navy.




Image source: Fabsugar.com