Have you seen any websites selling genuine Gucci handbags at great prices? —Jo

The only place I've seen that sells genuine Gucci handbags at a discount is Bluefly.com. Every now and then, I'll see Gucci come up at sample sale websites such as ideeli.com or RueLaLa.com. Sign up for their e-mail sale alerts, wait, then pounce the SECOND your sale starts. Now I'll turn it over to my readers—does anyone know of another REPUTABLE, mainstream store that sells genuine Gucci handbags for less? Share the secret!

I've been carrying this black patent leather Guess bowler for about a year now and I absolutely love it. However, I think it's time for a change of bag but still want something in a neutral tone—off white/cream, tan, brown, or even gray. Of course I want something that looks designer but without the hefty pricetag. I'm not big on online shopping and was hoping to see what you could suggest as being a trendy and sophisticated bag for a college girl. Thanks so much! —Haj

OK, so I hear you loud and clear about the online shopping—I prefer shopping in person myself—but if you're willing to take a chance, there's this great under-the-radar handbag designer called Melie Bianco which is sold primarily online that I think you will love. If you read fashion mags and blogs (including TBB), then you've probably heard of Melie Bianco before BUT the chances of you seeing another girl on campus carrying the exact same Melie Bianco bag are pretty slim. A strong incentive to shop online!

Most styles are under $100, which isn't dirt cheap, but Melie Bianco bags are well-made and look expensive. They don't have flashy logos and the styles are on-trend without being too trendy, meaning you'll enjoy these bags for years. Find them at baghaus.com, shopbareaccessories.com, shopecbc.com, and lulus.com, as well as big sites like Piperlime.com and Endless.com.

Here's a sampling of their bags to give you some idea of the available styles (my favorite du jour is the School Boy Tote in Navy)...



Anyone else a fan of Melie Bianco? What other designers would you recommend for cheap bags that don't look it?

I am relocating this month to San Francisco from Washington, DC. Can you suggest what a young, mid-20-something girl needs to survive in the Bay Area for the upcoming climate change. I'm at a loss! —Hal

In San Francisco, as in any large city, you'll need comfortable walking shoes especially with all the steep hills. They are no joke! I'd recommend a comfortable cross-body bag or messenger bag for this reason, too.

Say bye-bye to the heat and humidity of D.C. (something I got experience during a summer-long internship). I've never lived in San Francisco but I remember the weather was beautiful in the summertime, albeit a tad unpredictable and much cooler than I had expected. Layering is essential, so always carry a cardigan, jean jacket, or blazer, especially in the evenings.

The whole San Francisco vibe is more conservative than say, L.A., but equally stylish in its own way. Lots of earth tones and comfortable urban trekkers who look smart and chic because they match their environment, so to speak. In a sense, this is good because you're moving from D.C. so with a few tweaks, you'll be blending-in in no time.

Below are 3 affordable outfit ideas to inspire you. Now I'll turn it over to my savvy readers: What will Hal need in her wardrobe for her move to San Francisco? If you live in SF, we'd love to hear your input.

Bring summer into the office with light and airy pieces.

A relaxed yet pulled-together look for dinner at a nice-ish restaurant.

A cute and sporty look for running errands around the city.

I have a dress similar to this one (at right). Almost exact same color (called currant) and the material is cotton/sateen. I really need help with what color shoes and what types of accessories to go with this dress. —Adri

From fire-engine red to burgundy, all shades of red dresses look smashing with black accessories. You could pair your dress with this season's fierce, strappy heels for a modern look or find some elegant D'Orsay heels or peep-toe pumps to play up the ladylike feel of your dress. The choice is yours. Add a black clutch or small shoulder bag, a piece or two of jewelry in either gold or silver (match the hardware on the purse for foolproof coordination), and you're all set. Try adding further contrast with ebony onyx or black-lacquer jewelry.

Here are some hand-picked accessories that I'd consider pairing with your dress; everything's $45 or less!

HELP! We are trying to throw together a wedding for August 1 and we have the dresses picked out, but cannot find inexpensive shoes anywhere! The dresses are from J.Crew in three different colors (cantaloupe, light pink and tea pink) so we are thinking a nude heel of some sort. I've attached a picture of the dress that we are wearing (at right). Any suggestions? —Olivia

Believe it or not, I've been rather impressed by Payless' Unforgettable Moments by Lela Rose capsule collection. This line of affordable special-occasion shoes includes D'Orsay pumps, slingbacks, slides and strappy heels for just $45 to $50, in regular and wide widths. The collection also offers girl's shoes for $35 and accessories like satin clutches ($23 to $27). You can choose from 64 custom colors, and dying and shipping is free (according to the website). Visit a store to see the colors in person before you order. Even if you don't want to be too matchy matchy, you've got 64 fab options so there's sure to be a beautiful shade to go with your gorgeous dresses. Good luck! —BB

Anyone else know of a great place for bridesmaids to find affordable shoes? Let us know in the comments!