Last week we posted about the launch of Forever 21's new swimwear collection, and this week our Chicago-based budget-shopping correspondent (aka my sister) headed to the mall to check it out. She snapped a few photos with her cell phone, so the quality of the images isn't great, BUT she reports that the quality of the actual bathing suits is stellar! Lots of fun, feisty prints and amazing prices (most pieces are under $20), she reports.

In addition to the new swim suits, my sis also said she saw what appeared to be a limited-edition Bollywood Collection from Twelve by Twelve (Forever 21's luxe line). No doubt riding on the success of the Academy-award winning film Slumdog Millionaire, the new Bollywood fashion line features casual day dresses in sari-inspired fabrics, and a rich, jewel-tone color palette of brilliant blues, oranges, and reds. While my sister wasn't able to photograph the Bollywood clothing, she took a photo of the clothing tag as evidence (below).





Keep reading to see all the photos...

It's been a while since I've posted anything about Vera Wang's affordable collection for Kohl's, Simply Vera Vera Wang, and I think it's time to revisit the subject. First, I must say that I've defended this line's prices for far too long: It's too freakin' expensive! There, I said it. Sure, you can score great deals on this stuff when it's on sale (I almost bought a lovely LBD yesterday for $19 but figured I didn't really need it). And yes, combined with Kohl's' legendary coupons and Kohl's credit card discounts, those great deals can become great bargains. But I still experience sticker shock each time I look at those full price numbers, especially the $100 nylon handbags and $50 thin polyester blouses.

Having said that, I still love Vera and I think you'd be hard pressed to find another collection as creative and artsy anywhere else for much less. Simply Vera is also targeted towards a more mature female audience, and I think there's some great office wear and a nice range of sizes, something which can't be said for, say, Target's GO International collections.


On a positive note, I am often impressed by the tasteful Simply Vera Vera Wang shoe offerings. They're not perfect, but they provide a stylish, structured counterpoint to the more billowy, deconstructed looks that make up the clothing collection. Here are some photos I snapped during yesterday's trip—those navy patent wedges were calling my name! Also loved the pewter gladiator sandals, sadly, the straps were too loose and didn't provide enough stability when walking.

Are you a Simply Vera fan? What are your thoughts on the collection now that it's been around for a year and a half? (More photos after the jump...)

Some assistance please: Earlier this week, I spotted this bright coral trench by ELLE for Kohl's online (see product pic above). I thought it looked good as featured in their spring lookbook, so today I decided to check it out in person—and it's actually really cute in person (I think).




The fabric has a nice sheen to it, the adorable collar frames the face nicely, and the pleat detailing along the cuffs and hem adds a subtle, chic touch. Overall, this trench fit me well and the color brought a smile to my face (despite the crummy lighting in the photo above).

The problem with this trench is that it's very lightweight, so it may not be warm enough for oftentimes chilly (and rainy) March weather. I'm also not loving the price, it's still over $50 on sale. What do you think, would you wear something like this? Should I get it or wait for something better to come along?