I just bought a one-shoulder, ruffled, little black dress because I absolutely fell in love with it. [How can I] dress it up to make it look fresh and fun for a 20 year old? —RD

Three words: Bracelet, clutch, pumps. A bold cuff bracelet or bangle is all the jewelry you really need. Skip a necklace, which will just compete with the one-shoulder neckline for attention. Carry a clutch and avoid the awkward dilemma of placing a purse strap across the ruffle or your bare shoulder. And rock some ladylike, closed-toe pumps which will balance the look and give it a polished finish. Here are some sample accessories to help you get started:

Dear readers: How would you style a one-shoulder LBD?

What's the difference between a knockoff and a piece that is inspired by a designer? —Lesley

Here's the short answer: As I understand it, handbags called inspired by or similars are legal.

They're fun, inexpensive handbags that have similar design elements as their designer counterparts, but no one's going to confuse your inspired-by bag for the real thing (and if you think they will, you're just fooling yourself.)

Personally, I think designer-inspired bags are thrifty and fab-u-lous!


Handbags called replicas or copies suggest counterfeiting and are illegal.

The people who sell these bags are trying to pass them off as the "real deal." Knockoffs, replicas or fakes will have fake name brand tags, logos, labels, etc. Inspired handbags will NOT.

Personally, I don't see the point of buying a fake. There is way too much credible information linking the sale of fake designer handbags with terrorist organizations, child labor, etc. Not to mention, a $100 fake Coach purse ain't a great deal. They're also considered tacky by many, and are often poorly constructed.

Additional Resources:

• 
  Handbag guides on Ebay
  


• 
  Counterfeit Chic for a lawyer's perspective
  


• 
  My Poupette on how to identify a fake bag

Before: My nasty, bitten-to-the-bone fingernails before using Sally Hansen Miracle Cure.
Recently, The Budget Beauty Babe (an alias) brought us her glowing review of Sally Hansen Miracle Cure for Severe Problem Nails. Encouraged by her positive experience with this product, I decided to see if I could get the same incredible results, especially since I was desperate to put an end to my on-and-off, incredibly nasty little habit of biting my nails. So I bought a bottle of Sally Hansen Miracle Cure in the beauty section of my local grocery store, and put it to the test. This stuff really IS amazing! It forms a rigid, protective coating on my nails which strengthens the nail and acts as a solid deterrent to nail biting. No more chips, tears, or breaking—all the things that used to happen to my nails on a daily basis, which would then cause me to pick at them (gross, I know) until they were practically non-existent.

Above, you can see what my nails looked like when I began this experiment a few weeks ago. Keep reading to see my nails now!

Recently I received a question from a reader seeking advice about what to wear and where to shop for a trip to London. Apparently, my readers are quite the world travelers! Fortunately, so are many of my friends: Today's guest blogger is none other than the Budget Babe's International Travel Advisor Fifi LaMode (an alias), who regular readers may recall has brought us tales of her countless travel adventures from Guatemala to Greece since this blog first launched. Read on for Fifi's expert advice, whether you're planning a trip or just want a little escapism for your weekend.


Written by Fifi LaMode
Since I haven't been in London in a dog's age, I asked an expert - my husband, who hails from across the pond. Here's his advice: Aside from the usual tourist stuff, which you can check out in any guide book, go to Trafalgar Square to get a feel for the trappings of the old Empire. A short walk away is the church of St. Martin's in the Fields where they have free concerts (check the days and times). Downstairs in the church there's a restaurant where you can have a cheap good meal and the floor is full of tombstones from days of yore. He says it's one of London's best kept secrets.

I am seriously searching for a belt like this picture (right). It doesn't have to have as many strands as the picture but at least have 2 strands and doesn't have to be as thick at the back—it could be a thin belt all the way around. Any help would be great. —Y

That belt is hot, I can see why you'd want one! Double the fun of a single strap belt, the latest crop of hot belts have two or more buckles. I personally own this belt by Xhilaration from Target ($16.99), and I love it (see me wearing it here). Below, you'll find my picks for the best multi-buckle belts on a budget from around the web. Hope this helps!