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

Because it's best to wear flats barefoot (or with Kushyfoot Ultra Low Cut Foot Covers), it's important to find a flexible, breathable style that won't pinch your toes or chafe the back of your heel. After all, it's the comfort factor that causes celebs and fashionistas to swear by shoe makers like Sue London and Tory Burch. But whereas they pay hundreds for style and comfort, we budget babes need only spend $20 to slip our tootsies into these supple leather "Rebecca" flats by Aerosoles that are equally fabulous in form and function.

From Aerosoles.com: "A supersoft leather skimmer that fits like a dream. Adorned with antiqued ornament and strap detail. Extra cushioned insole and elasticized heel give a secure fit. Flexible rubber sole. Red, white, or black leather." $79.00 NOW: $19.99

Ever since I purchased a pair of cheap-o riding boots at Target, I've become obsessed with these versatile, classic, equestrian chic shoes. With Winter clearance sales in full swing, I'm determined to pick up another pair - preferably in real leather this time - on mad discount. It's a look I know I will wear and love for many seasons to come...the trick is narrowing it down to that one perfect style. Here's what I've found so far - would love some help in the decision-making department (and I'm open to your great riding boot finds, too!):



[1] Steve Madden Riding boot, Orig. $139 Now $119
[2] St. John's Bay "June" Riding boot, Orig. $110.00 Now $49.99
[3] a.n.a "Amber" Leather Riding boot, Orig. $130.00 Now $59.99
[4] Asos Zip Back Flat Riding boot, Orig. $79.84 Now $63.87
[5] Bandolino "Jordana" Tall boot, Orig. $149.00 Now $69.28
[6] Jessica Simpson"Glennon" boot, Orig. $179.00 Now $69.99
[7] Aerosoles "Override" Riding boot, Orig. $180.00 Now $99.99

Styling ideas for Riding Boots, courtesy BCBGMaxAzria.com...

We're not sure exactly why, but we love fashions that are yummy - and boy is this BCBG Max Azria
Mona Leather Wristlet delicious!

The color, the lambskin, the cute quilting, and the petite cupcake-like size combine to make this one tasty accessory, perfect to give on Valentine's day. Plus, it will be totally hot for Spring (we're all about the brights for punching up neutral outfits.)

Scoop it up on sale at Saks for $38.90, orig. $98.00. Also available in juicy purple.

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