Last night I attended the Charlotte Russe Launch Event - Fall 2009 - in New York City, and while I'm diligently working on my report for all of you, I thought I'd post a rather self-indulgent photo of the gorgeous beaded statement necklace and matching cuff that everyone got in their goodie bags. Fancy, huh? I actually saw someone wearing the necklace at the event and assumed it was Vera Wang or some one-of-a-kind piece by an independent artist that cost a small fortune. Needless to say, I loved it so much and was thrilled to discover that the lust-worthy piece was in fact affordable and in my goodie bag. I don't know the exact prices, but each piece probably costs around $10 if Charlotte Russe's current necklace offerings are any indication, so keep an eye out for these beauties in stores soon! Loads of ladies were wearing statement necklaces last night, a trend that will carry through into the fall for sure.

Kenneth Jay Lane delivers a varied collection of statement-making baubles, often incorporating natural elements like flowers and animals into his designs. Earlier today I was admiring his jewelry at a Gilt.com sale, which included a blue enamel flower ring similar to the style above ($90 at bergdorfgoodman.com).


If you missed the Gilt sale or just want something similar for less, Forever 21 has a dazzling array of flower-themed cocktail rings with a definite Kenneth-Jay-Lane feel. Scoop up the tiny treasure above for just $4.80.

Browse more fabulous rings from Forever 21 below (it's hard to pick just one favorite, no?)…

Torrid, the plus-size fashion brand, is kicking off its House of Dreams Model Search on July 17 through July 19. Women 16 years and older and size 12 and up can visit their nearest Torrid location to apply to win. Winners are awarded an all expense paid trip to Los Angeles, where they will walk the runway in a blow-out fashion event, as well as appear as the new face of Torrid.com!

The first 100 applicants at each location will also receive a free gift of e.l.f. (eyes lips face) cosmetics!

Simply submit an entry form along with a photo to your local Torrid store. Entry forms can be found at your nearest Torrid or online at www.torrid.com.

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.