Chanel has three new coveted nail colors out for spring 2010, including Chanel Particuliere Le Vernis Nail Colour, a color that can be described at "mushroom," "taupe" or "putty." This affordable luxury (oxymoron intended) can be yours for $23 a bottle at uma.chanel.com.




If you want to try this color for less, People StyleWatch offers a great dupe in the February 2010 issue: It's the Complete Salon Manicure Nail Polish in Commander in Chic by Sally Hansen, $7.99 at Ulta.com (or look for it in drugstores). Maybe I'm just smitten by this color because Chanel says it's chic, but I definitely can't wait to get my hands on a creamy putty polish for Spring! If anyone has any suggestions for a similar color, I'm all ears.

I am going to Southern California the first week in February for a 4 or 5 day mini-vacation and wedding and have NO idea what to pack. Please help me out on what to pack and possibly outfit ideas and an idea of what to wear to the wedding—I'm lost! —D

When I'm packing for a trip, I think about the weather and the type of activities I plan on doing, then I lay out a few outfits, and finally, I edit. Pack items that you can wear at least twice. Items that go from day to night are even better.

Having said that, I follow a couple Southern California fashion bloggers (like Cupcakes & Cashmere and Karla's Closet), and those lucky girls seem to be able to wear just about anything this time of year! Still, the weather can be unpredictable, so pack an umbrella, trench, cardigan, blazer, scarf, tights and hat to prepare for chilly evenings or rainy days.

Other than that, I think you can have fun and be as fashion-forward or laid-back as you wanna be. Do what suits you! Here are 4 outfit ideas to get you started. Click any image to get details on all affordable items shown (you know I wouldn't tease you with out-of-reach pricey duds).

Outfit 1

A Formal Affair: For the wedding, why not get a head start on spring trends and try a bright frock dressed up with new neutrals? I think it's a fresh take on evening wear.


Outfit 2

Urban Boho: Pair edgy leggings with a slouchy beanie and chunky sweater for a look that's relaxed yet cool enough to blend in with any scene. Great for sightseeing.


Outfit 3

Casual Sexy: A bandage skirt exudes a sexy-siren vibe, so play it down with a casual button-down and sporty vest. Wear the same skirt with a tank-top later for night.


Outfit 4

Girly: Here's an Alexa-Chung-inspired look that's playful and fun yet wearable enough for a day of shopping. A blazer is the perfect layering piece to pack since it can go with jeans, skirts or dresses. Ditto on the cross-body bag!

Readers: What's your strategy for packing? What did I miss?