Forget about protractors, Trapper Keepers and loose-leaf paper: This fall's must-have back-to-school essential is the headband. Take a cue from TV's most stylish students (of course, I'm talking about the cast of Gossip Girl) and use your headband to solve real-life beauty dilemmas. Tame growing-out bangs, disguise bed-head, and dress up running-late-for-class 'dos with this fun hair accessory that costs close to nothing. Class dismissed.

Everyone seems to be looking for an affordable leather jacket this time of year, a perennial "must-have" for fall. Recently I posted about where to find a genuine leather jacket under $200, and today I've rounded up some faux-leather options that are surprisingly just as good.

Although I hadn't planned on buying one this season (I thought my look was getting progressively less edgy, but then realized even I could incoporate this style into my wardrobe), a little over a week ago I picked up a faux-leather biker jacket at Forever 21 for just $39.50—and I love it! I've only had the chance to wear it once so far. I've been vacationing in Quebec, Canada, (posting from various internet hot spots) but the weather's been gorgeous and way too warm.

Anyways, manufacturers have made a lot of progress in the way this pleather stuff moves, bends and feels. It's a modern marvel, I tell ya. I suspect this won't be the last leather jacket post of the season as stores continue to roll out fall merchandise. If you've had luck in this department, too, share where you bought yours in the comments.

Maybe the heat's gone to my head but I'm loving leopard print coats for fall. This classic animal-print never really goes out of style, but when the trend is hot you can pick one up for less. Here are some affordable leopard print coats available now—how cute would this Forever 21 Leopard Print Trench Coat be for back-to-school? Very. More affordable options below...

As I reported back in April, Anna Sheffield is collaborating with Target on a jewelry collection that hits stores August 30 and features an eclectic design style using sterling silver to create a "flirty assortment that will kickoff the fall season in style." According to the press release, the designer draws inspiration from her surroundings to create a collection of keepsake pieces, including a range of delicate drop and playful stud earrings, charm necklaces with multi-chains and rings adorned with colored stones. Pieces in the exclusive Anna Sheffield for Target collection will range in price from $19.99 to $79.99.

Here's more about the artist: "New York based jewelry designer, Anna Sheffield, hails from New Mexico where a rich artistic and elemental environment, as well as her studies in fine art, provide her with unlimited inspiration. Anna Sheffield is best known for her Bing Bang and Anna Sheffield jewelry collections which are sold at various stores across the country as well as a favorite within celebrity circles. The Anna Sheffield for Target collection brings stylish finds at guilt-free prices to fashionistas nationwide. For an inside look into Anna's world, you can also check out "Two Minutes with Anna Sheffield".

I'm really excited for this collection even if the photos kinda look like generic stuff you'd find at Claire's or something. We shall see!

The Naughty Monkey "Exhibit A" gladiator sandal features a funky mix of bold textures—from ribs to braids to edgy studs. The cost for such decadence? $74.95 at Endless.com.


While not identical, these embellished gladiator sandals over at GoJane.com are a fabulous cheap-chic option. Choose from brown, black or tan for just $9.99 a pair. Thanks to reader Danielle for the tip!