Tag: affordable fashion

Holiday Lace & Tulle

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Growing up I idolized ballerinas and figure skaters for what they were able to do and their bravery to do it with everyone watching. Now that I think about it, this is probably why I gravitate so much to skater skirts and dresses as a way to emulate confidence. Never-mind the fact  that I have never learned how to ice skate or pirouette, I’m wearing a tutu ergo I am a ballerina! In all seriousness, the tulle skirt is really something that I have been silently coveting for a while now and I am so happy that I was finally able to purchase one without breaking the bank. That’s right, this tulle skirt is only $20!
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Those of you who follow me on Instagram know that back in November I was having difficulty choosing between the black or blush pleated A-line skirt from Forever 21+  and it was this lace trim sweater that helped me finally make a decision.  A 2010 Christmas present from my mother, this was a piece I couldn’t figure out how to wear. Pencil skirts and trousers didn’t seem to give the cinched bell lace sleeves justice because it had this muted feminine elegance that called for something more dramatic to be paired with it, so you can imagine how happy I was to finally find something that just worked so well. I must say that even with the inexpensive the price tag, the quality of this tulle skirt is so good, it won’t fall apart after just wearing it once or look unfinished and the material does not give the air of “cheap.” It truly is a must have piece for your wardrobe as it is so versatile,  and when styled right can easily transition from casual to party ready. 

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Style Notes: Unfortunately this sweater is no longer available, but I did manage to find some interesting and affordable tops that would definitely compliment this skirt in a similar way for any upcoming holiday social events you may have this month.

~Get the look~

Worthington Lace Bell Sleeve Sweater (XL)  | JcPenny (sold out, similar here, here, and here)
Tulle Full Midi Skirt (2X) | Charlotte Russe 
Suede Wedges | ALDO (sold out, similar here and here)

Last Minute Holiday Shopping Guide

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This holiday season has proven to be hectic with trying to balance work and everything else to the point that it became very difficult for me to even start my Christmas shopping when usually by this point I would be finished.  Even as I write this I only have one stocking stuffer to show for all my shopping efforts, and its not even for anyone on my list…I got it for me.  Anyway, here are some gifts ideas of things I found as I did some online shopping. If you like me are way behind in shopping, make sure to put in our orders as soon as you can, Christmas is next Friday! In an effort to finish the year on budget I’ve made sure that everything on this guide is $30 and under, minus shipping though many retailers seem to now be offering free shipping due to holiday rush so that cost shouldn’t be as bad as it usually is. Happy shopping! Continue reading →

Commanding Attention

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While it took me a while to actually enjoy fashion, I will admit that I always had a thing for historical costume, particularly those of the 18th century and the regency. Its no secret that I love history.  It’s been my favorite subject since the first grade when I first learned about Elizabeth I and today I am a proud historian who does research via study of symbols/iconography and material culture. Part of that love has also lead to me incorporating a couple of history inspired pieces into my wardrobe with things like velvet ribbons, cameo brooches, lace gloves, parasols and my most prized possession – a military zip jacket. To date this is one of those pieces in my wardrobe that rarely makes an appearance save for special occasions like the start of fall.  With its gold-crested button front, mandarin collar and  curved seams, it turned out to be one of the best accompaniments for my new retro dress. Continue reading →

Falling For Something Old Made New

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Fall weather has finally made it to New York City and what better way is there to enjoy the cooler weather than in a vintage cape. The cape is actually a gift from my great aunt who moved back to Panama in July and I have been waiting anxiously for a chance to wear it ever since. It is such a great “old world” piece, reminiscent of military fashion with its high textured velvet collar, double breasted buttons and braided frog closures. The wool fabric makes it perfect for this unpredictable transitional weather, yet I figure with the right gloves I may actually be able to wear it during the much expected freezing winter. Continuing within the vein of the cape’s classic style, I curated a vintage-inspired look by remixing both old and new pieces from my closet. Continue reading →

Think Pink – Shopping For a Cause

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We’ve finally made it to October which means sweater weather, pumpkin spice EVERYTHING, New York Comic Con and, of course, Halloween. Yet there is one more significant thing  that occurs this month that is sometimes ignored during the rest of the year, that is breast cancer awareness.

The great thing is there are ways to help even if you can’t do so personally by volunteering  and do it in style. So if you believe that this is an important cause that needs to be spread, consider representing and supporting by purchasing and wearing something pink this month. I did some searching and found some great affordable “pink power” selections for the office, casual Sundays and even for those weekly workouts, all of which donates a  percentage of the retail prices towards the various nonprofit organizations and their work. Continue reading →