Sunday Steals: Elizabeth and James Feather Across the Hand Ring on a Budget

My loves, to your left please savor the stunning style that is the Elizabeth and James Feather Across the Hand Ring – the very same one seen decorating the dainty digits of one Ms. Mary-Kate Olsen; to your right allow your eyes to fall upon ASOS’ Double Finger Metal Feather Ring.

While the ambrosial ASOS piece is available only in gold, as opposed to the burnished silver hue of the Elizabeth and James original; for just $13.79, in comparison to the $150.00 price tag of the Elizabeth and James gem, it provides one’s accessory drawer with a splash of high fashion frippery – on a frugalista’s budget!

Which role have you decided to undertake on this sultry Sunday, kittens? Tightwad or spendthrift?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Shopbop and ASOS for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the Style ABC’s Giveaway for your chance to win a copy of Joe Zee’s The ELLEments of Personal Style: 25 Modern Fashion Icons on How to Dress, Shop, and Live.

Don't forget to enter the Yves Saint Laurent and Apothica Love You Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Certificate to Apothica.

Hi, I Adore You...

Adoring: Style tips from Gossip Girl god Eric Daman in the form of You Know You Want It; Pretty rain boots all in a bow a la Kate Spade New York’s bow-adorned Randi; Blair Waldorf-approved sweater dresses with a feminine flair like Nanette Lepore’s Tea n Tartan Plaid Sweater Dress; Tailored shorts courtesy of By Malene Birger’s Asflori Pleated Shorts that simply call to be layered over pretty patterned tights; Chic carryalls that take you from day to night such as American Apparel’s Medium Leather Carry-All Pouch in Black; Gloomy yet glamorous nail lacquers – specifically Illamasqua’s cement gray DWS; Milk & Dark Chocolate Caramel Apples via Dean & DeLuca.

Tell me, my loves; what are you currently adoring?


Fashionably yours!


NOTE: Click the picture to enlarge the collage, if you so desire.


Don't forget to enter the Style ABC’s Giveaway for your chance to win a copy of Joe Zee’s The ELLEments of Personal Style: 25 Modern Fashion Icons on How to Dress, Shop, and Live.

Don't forget to enter the Yves Saint Laurent and Apothica Love You Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Certificate to Apothica.

Style ABC's Giveaway

Mes chers, of course we learned our ABC’s as tiny tots toddling through the corridors of our humble childhood abodes in our mother’s castoff high heels; but the time has come to learn a different form of ABC’s – those of personal style. And now one (1) of you glamorous gals will be receiving precisely that from ELLE magazine’s beloved Style Guru…Mr. Joe Zee! Today is your lucky day, lovers; Café Fashionista has teamed up with Penguin Group to bring one (1) of you fashionable femme fatales a copy of the recently released The ELLEments of Personal Style: 25 Modern Fashion Icons on How to Dress, Shop, and Live. Chock full of hundreds of tips from stylistas such as Fergie, Candace Bushnell, Christina Hendricks, Erin Wasson, and Diane von Furstenberg, in addition to full-color photographs of celebrity closets, homes, and inspirations; The ELLEments of Personal Style is like an all-access pass to the lifestyles of the fierce, fabulous, and stylish – and soon it may be yours! To Enter the Style ABC’s Giveaway: ♥ For one (1) entry, leave a comment on this post stating what modern fashion icon you would love to receive style tips from between now and Friday, November 12, 2010 at midnight PST. ♥ For two (2) entries, Twitter about this giveaway, and leave a comment on this post stating what modern fashion icon you would love to receive style tips from between now and Friday, November 12, 2010 at midnight PST with your Twitter URL. ♥ For three (3) entries, become a follower of Café Fashionista on Blogger/Google Reader/Google Friend Connect/Twitter, and leave a comment on this post stating what modern fashion icon you would love to receive style tips from between now and Friday, November 12, 2010 at midnight PST (if you are already a Café Fashionista follower, please say so in your comment). I will randomly pick one (1) name out of a hat (who knows, it could be yours!), and announce the winner on Saturday, November 13, 2010. Good luck everyone! And yes, this Giveaway is open to everyone – U.S. or International residents! Fashionably yours! Thanks to Penguin Group and TV Fanatic for the pictures.

It's Your Wedding Day; Show Off Your Shoes!

Darlings, there is no denying that one’s wedding day is a time to ensure that you sparkle in all of your pre-wedding bliss; showering your many admirers with a glow that radiates from the top of your head to the tips of your toes, dispelling a certain je ne sais quoi about your person that makes those around you gasp in envy. But sometimes, the very thing that creates such a feeling is not the gown itself; rather, it is the sassy shoes upon one’s feet – the precise object that, quite frequently, goes unnoticed due to sweeping, floor-length frocks.

In the words of Levende Waters, “Funny that a pair of really nice shoes makes us feel good in our heads – at the extreme opposite end of our bodies.” Luckily for you, my loves, with the fall and winter 2010 trends of short hemlines for wedding dresses one has the opportunity to show off their fabulous shoes and glorious gams all at the very same time.

Non, non, non! Do not get me wrong; gowns that reach the ground are glamorous in their Old Hollywood way. But as someone who clocks in at a staggering five-foot-one in bare feet (and is also ever so slightly obsessed with shoes), I myself find that the shorter hemlines are far more figure flattering. Besides, there’s no question that the girls of Mad Men or Sex and the City would highly approve. After all, a trailing Galina Signature Organza A-Line Gown with Angled Draped Pick-Ups may make you feel like a modern version of Grace Kelly; but a knee-grazing Galina Short Dress Featuring 3D Floral Appliqués allows you to not only show off your flirty frock, but the High Heel Sandal with Rhinestone Anklet that you spent hours selecting, as well!

As the saying goes, “A pair of shoes can change your life. Just ask Cinderella.” The question is, kitty cats…will you be flaunting your fabuleux footwear with a high-hemlined dress; or will you stick to the traditional style of long, flowing frocks come your time to say “I do”?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to David's Bridal for the picture.

Thrifty Thursday: David Lerner Lace Dress for Less

Mes chers, on the left we have David Lerner’s luscious Lace Dress; to the right we have Candie’s lovely Lace Bandage Dress courtesy of Kohl’s.

While the lace detailing seen on the Candie’s creation is a hue that matches the overall construction of the dress, as opposed to a contrasting color a la the Lerner lovely; for a mere $28.80, in comparison to the $220.00 required to call the Lerner original your own, it harbors the very same ability to make the wearer turn heads – at a price that doesn’t make one cringe!

Tell me, kittens…will you be a big spender and go for David Lerner, or be thrifty and spring for Candie’s?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Revolve Clothing and Kohl’s for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the Yves Saint Laurent and Apothica Love You Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Certificate to Apothica.

Don't forget to enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings from Asquared Jewelry.

♥ Fashionably Moi! ♥

♥Wearing: Heritage 1981 Cable Knit Cardigan in Cream; Forever 21 Long Ribbed Tank in Olive; Forever 21 Deconstructed Denim Skirt in Medium Denim; Sam Edelman Naharra Piped High Heel Boots in Graphite; Forever 21 Textured Bangle Set in Gold; Forever 21 Stone Center Ring in Brown/Gold.

♥Reading: I Know What You Did Last Summer by Lois Duncan. I loaned this book to ma mère approximately six years ago; she ever so kindly gave it back to me last week – obviously a reread was in order to celebrate its unlikely return!

♥Glamourizing: Nails: China Glaze’s Mommy Kissing Santa from the ‘Tis the Season to Be Naughty and Nice Holiday 2010 Collection. Non, I did not buy this shade for the name alone – that was merely an added bonus! Lips: mark Shimmer Glossblossom Ripening Lip Tint. This stuff is stupéfiant! It basically adapts to your body temperature to give your lips a one-of-a-kind tint. Plus it tastes and smells like watermelon - aimer l'amour! Eyes: mark’s i-glimmer Illuminating Eye Color in Bronzed. S'il vous plaît re-release this product; I am lost without it!

♥Listening: Obsession by Sky Ferreira. Oui! I’m un peu obsessed with Obsession; I’ve already listened to it seven times today.

♥Adoring: Frye Veronica Slouch Boots in Dark Brown. American Apparel’s Lightweight Sheer Rib Raglan Pullover in Mauve – simple, seductive, and saucy…a girl requires nothing more than that trio of fabulosity! Merci, American Apparel! Anthropologie’s October 2010 lookbook – specific styles for making stops at all of my favorite locations…flower shop, bookstore, café, bike rides, and bakery. Fabuleux, non? Obviously my destiny lies in taking up residence in an Anthropologie advert; oh, and somehow getting my manicured mitts on a pair of those Tassels Away Boots. J’adore!

♥Watching: Kim Possible reruns. And don’t even try to deny it; I’m not the only one who wanted to be her as a child. “Call me, beep me, if you want to reach me…”

♥Desiring: B. Makowsky ‘Stanton’ Stingray Embossed Leather Satchel. Non, I am not a handbag girl; nevertheless, I am over the moon for this bag. It has a certain je ne sais quoi that makes me swoon. So much so that I am contemplating making it my first high-priced handbag buy! Joie ‘Paprika’ Asymmetrical Sweater. Swoon! Fingers crossed that this comes back in my size because I besoin it to go on living a happy, healthy life! Illamasqua Nail Varnish in DWS. I have searched high and low for the perfect cement gray shade; finally I asked Scrangie for advice and she recommended this - J'ai besoin de!

♥Quoting: Janet Lane - “Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important.”

♥Awaiting: Forever 21 Fab Striped Boyfriend Top in Cream/Charcoal. It was love at first sight; I had to have. Amour!

But enough about moi; let’s talk about…vous. Time to give me the lowdown on your life, lovers! What are you up to this week?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to The Anaiz View for the picture.


Don't forget to enter the Yves Saint Laurent and Apothica Love You Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Certificate to Apothica.

Don't forget to enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings from Asquared Jewelry.

Tightwad Tuesday: Stuart Weitzman 50/50 Boots on a Budget

Kitty cats, back in July of 2010, I introduced you to a less-expensive version of Stuart Weitzman’s 50/50 Boots; now I have unearthed something even better.

On your left, allow your eyes to take in the lusciousness that is the Stuart Weitzman 50/50 Boot – the very same one worn by Jennifer Love Hewitt, Leighton Meester, Lindsay Lohan, and Angelina Jolie; to the right cast your eyes upon Steve Madden’s haute Haviland.

Though the Madden marvel sports a shaft that is a half-size shorter, and a heel that is a half-inch higher than the Weitzman wonders; for just $119.96, as opposed to the $595.00 required to add Stuart to your ever-burgeoning shoe collection, they allow the frugalista to indulge in star style at a far more pleasing price!

Which role have you decided to undertake on this terrific Tuesday, kittens? Tightwad or spendthrift?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Zappos for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the Yves Saint Laurent and Apothica Love You Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Certificate to Apothica.

Don't forget to enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings from Asquared Jewelry.

Play It Again, Sam

Whip My Hair - Willow Smith
Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters - Elton John
Walk in the Park - Beach House
Quicksand - La Roux
Like a G6 - Far East Movement feat. The Cataracs and Dev
She Moves in Her Own Way - The Kooks
Hammock - Howls
Temptation Waits - Garbage
All the Right Moves - OneRepublic
Here We Go Again - Pixie Lott
What song has left you with the urge to say Play It Again, Sam this week, my loves?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to La Petite Fashionista for the picture.


Don't forget to enter the Yves Saint Laurent and Apothica Love You Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Certificate to Apothica.

Don't forget to enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings from Asquared Jewelry.

Sunday Steals: Joie Celia Poncho Sweater for Less

Dolls, in the left corner we have Joie’s très chic Celia Poncho Sweater; in the right corner we have ModCloth’s luscious Long Flight Sweater.

Though ModCloth’s magnificent creation is quite a bit thinner, and constructed out of a mix of polyester and cotton, as opposed to the cashmere of the Joie treasure; for just $42.00, in comparison to the $274.00 price tag of its couture cousin, it is every bit as capable of helping one to create that effortlessly chic style we all strive for – at a price that is oh-so alluring for the frugalista!

Your turn loves…will you be thrifty or suckered into putting on your spendthrift cap?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Shopbop and ModCloth for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the Yves Saint Laurent and Apothica Love You Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Certificate to Apothica.

Don't forget to enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings from Asquared Jewelry.

Hi, I Adore You...

Adoring: All things apples – orchards, pie, cider… - it is, after all, the fruit of the season (and a charming one at that!); Clog Booties (which I have affectionately nicknamed blogs - oh-so appropriate, non?) – specifically Sam Edelman’s Winsford Lace Up Clog Booties. Shearling + Bootie + Clog = Hi, I Adore You…; Dark, vampy nail lacquers a la Essie’s Masquerade Belle from the Winter 2010 Collection; Wine-colored carryalls like the ruby hued Foley + Corinna Mid City Tote; Design*Sponge’s autumn-inspired pot holder how-to (the perfect DIY project to undertake on a rainy day!); Starbucks’ Hot Chocolate piled high with fluffy whipped cream; Cozy mysteries with caffeine-fueled settings courtesy of Cleo Coyle’s Coffeehouse Mysteries - one of my préféré book series ever!

Tell me, my loves; what are you currently adoring?


Fashionably yours!


NOTE: Click the picture to enlarge the collage, if you so desire.


Don't forget to enter the Yves Saint Laurent and Apothica Love You Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Certificate to Apothica.

Don't forget to enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings from Asquared Jewelry.

Yves Saint Laurent and Apothica Love You Giveaway

My loves, Yves Saint Laurent himself once said “The most beautiful makeup of a woman is passion. But cosmetics are easier to buy.” And thus, he created a conglomerate of Couture Cosmetics ranging from nail lacquers and lip glosses to mascaras and fragrances – all of which one can easily obtain from Apothica; the place where one (1) of you lucky ladies will soon be visiting for un petit shopping spree.

Yes darlings; Café Fashionista has teamed up with SkinCareRX and Apothica to bring one (1) ravishing reader a $50.00 Gift Certificate to Apothica wherein you can splurge on any skin care, hair care, or cosmétique that tickles your fancy.

To Enter the Yves Saint Laurent and Apothica Love You Giveaway:

♥Become a follower of Café Fashionista on Blogger/Google Reader/Google Friend Connect/Twitter (if you are already a Café Fashionista follower, please say so in your comment) between now and Friday, November 5, 2010 at Midnight PST.

♥Leave a comment on this post listing each form of entry you have participated in between now and Friday, November 5, 2010 at Midnight PST.

Extra Entries (There Is a Total of 13 Entries for This Giveaway):

♥Become a fan of Apothica on Facebook between now and Friday, November 5, 2010 at Midnight PST – 1 Entry

♥Follow SkinCareRX on Twitter between now and Friday, November 5, 2010 at Midnight PST – 1 Entry

♥Tweet about this giveaway on Twitter between now and Friday, November 5, 2010 at Midnight PST – 2 Entries

♥Opt-in to the Apothica Newsletter (located on the bottom of their website) between now and Friday, November 5, 2010 at Midnight PST – 2 Entries

♥Write a blog post with a link directed to the specified brand – Yves Saint Laurent
♥Must have a minimum of 100 words and use the anchor text Yves Saint Laurent and link it to http://makeup.apothica.com/yves-saint-laurent.html in your post.
I will randomly pick one (1) name out of a hat (who knows, it could be yours!), and announce the winner on Saturday, November 6, 2010.

Good luck everyone!

And yes, this giveaway is open to everyone – U.S. or International residents!


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Apothica for the pictures.

Thrifty Thursday: Autumn Cashmere Ribbed Draped Cardigan for Less

My loves, to your left you will find Autumn Cashmere’s utterly ambrosial Ribbed Draped Cardigan; to the right, let your pretty peepers take in the sight that is Mossimo Black’s ravishing Rib Open Cardigan Sweater.

Though the Mossimo Black marvel lacks the cashmere construction of the Autumn Cashmere piece, instead finding itself crafted out of 100% acrylic; for just $27.99, in comparison to the $264.00 asking price of the original, it is an oh-so cozy way of adding a new knit to your wardrobe – at a price that won’t make you forsake your beloved daily trips to Starbucks!

Will Autumn Cashmere tempt you into being a big spender, or will Mossimo Black inspire you to save?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Neiman Marcus and Target for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings from Asquared Jewelry.

Don't forget to enter the Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway for your chance to win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Shopbop.

Cafe Fashionista on Violet Sage!

Kitty cats, the fabulous Meghan over at Violet Sage flattered me immensely a few days ago when she requested to interview me for her blog - the end result can be seen here. Do pop over and check it out, as I reveal a few unknown facts about moi. But beware...you will find yourself addicted to the wonderment that is Violet Sage in the process!


Fashionably yours!

♥ Fashionably Moi! ♥

♥Wearing: Mossimo Supply Co. V-Neck Hoodie in Myth Blue (it’s un peu long on my five-foot-one-and-a-half frame, therefore I wear it as a mini-dress/tunic); Mossimo Supply Co. Full Legging in Ebony; Steve Madden Maryn in Black; Lola and George Reef Ring (if you have yet to discover the wonderment that is Lola and George, please do so now – each and every piece is stupéfiant!); Veronique Pendant Necklace via Alloy.

♥Reading: The Vampire Diaries: The Fury by L.J. Smith. Very rarely do I…devour a book series so quickly; thus, it is quite evident how much j’adore this one.

♥Glamourizing: Nails: Nicole by OPI Too Rich For You from the Gossip Girl Collection. Lips: Victoria’s Secret Beauty Rush Swirl Lip Gloss in Ice Teased. Eyes: mark I-Mark Custom Pick Eye Shadow in Minx.

♥Listening: Armistice by Phoenix. I will forever be obsédé with this song. Also, there’s something about the lyrics that makes me think of The Vampire Diaries. I think this song may need to be added to the soundtrack. Just un petit suggestion.

♥Adoring: Xhilaration’s Faux Shearling Bomber Jacket in Dark Brown via Target. The photographs don’t do this bit of blissful outerwear justice; I picked mine up last week and feel like I’m strutting down the Burberry catwalk alongside Lily Donaldson whenever I put it on. J’adore! Paula Deen. Gah! She is cuteness personified. I want to be a part of her family; or she a part of mine – same diff! Holiday inspired nail polish collections a la China Glaze’s ‘Tis the Season to Be Naughty and Nice. Party Hearty, Mommy Kissing Santa, Sugar Plums, Naughty and Nice, Midnight Kiss, Cheers to You, Jolly Holly, Mistletoe Kisses, Phat Santa, Ruby Deer, Mrs. Claus, Peace On Earth, Frosty, Snow, Jingle Bells, and Little Drummer Boy…ummm, hello…with lacquer monikers such as those it is absolutely no surprise that I should need them all. Merry Early Christmas to moi!

♥Watching: Nancy Drew…Reporter - the black and white original from 1939. I found it for a quarter at Target a few years back and never got around to watching it. Now that I have, I want to be the roving girl reporter (and amateur sleuth!) more than ever!

♥Desiring: ADAM Aviator Jacket with Shearling Collar – hello gorgeous. This jacket makes me foam at the mouth - non, I am most certainly pas joking. Bored to Death: The Complete First Season. Jason Schwartzman. Brooklyn. Unlicensed private eyes. Enough said. Dolce Vita Vanessa Suede Platform Booties in Grey. The jury’s still out on whether or not I’d be able to walk in these marvels (the heel is tout à fait high); but ohmigosh I besoin them with every fiber of my being!

♥Quoting: Randy Pausch - “When it comes to men who are romantically interested in you, it’s really simple. Just ignore everything they say and only pay attention to what they do.”

♥Awaiting: Sam Edelman’s Naharra Piped High Heel Boot. I couldn’t decide between Graphite Leather or Whiskey Leather, so I splurged and bought them both!

But enough about moi; let’s talk about…vous. Time to give me the lowdown on your life, lovers! What are you up to this week?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Tumblr for the picture.


Don't forget to enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings from Asquared Jewelry.

Don't forget to enter the Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway for your chance to win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Shopbop.

Tightwad Tuesday: Cartier Panthere De Cartier Ring for Less

My loves, to the left we have Cartier’s purrrr-fect Panthere De Cartier Ring, the very same one seen gracing the pretty paws of Rachel Zoe, Twilight’s Kristen Stewart, Lady Gaga, Leighton Meester, Rihanna, Olivia Wilde, and many more of your favorite fashionistas; to the right feast your eyes upon Shock Boutique’s perfect Panther Ring.

While the Shock Boutique stunner lacks some of the exquisite detailing seen upon its haute couture counterpart; for a mere $30, as opposed to the $20,300.00 needed to take the original home, it is every bit as capable of adding a fierce touch to your accessory collection – at a price that will leave your life savings intact!

Are you having a tightwad moment darlings, or are you plagued with a craving to splurge?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Cartier and Shock Boutique for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings from Asquared Jewelry.

Don't forget to enter the Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway for your chance to win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Shopbop.

Play It Again, Sam

Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground - The White Stripes
I Want the World to Stop - Belle and Sebastian
Gold Guns Girls - Metric
Imagine - John Lennon
It’s Working - MGMT
Paper Planes - M.I.A.
Criminal - Fiona Apple
Vanilla Twilight - Owl City
V.I.P. - Ke$ha
Wake Up Alone - Amy Winehouse
What song has left you with the urge to say Play It Again, Sam this week, my loves?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Absolutely Unique for the picture.


Don't forget to enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings from Asquared Jewelry.

Don't forget to enter the Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway for your chance to win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Shopbop.

Sunday Steals: Frye Harness 12R Leather Riding Boots on a Budget

Kitty cats, to your left do yourself a favor and take a gander at Frye’s glorious 12R Leather Riding Boots; to your right allow your eyes to gaze upon the magnificence that is Mossimo Supply Co.’s Katherine Leather Engineer Boots.

While the Mossimo marvels are a slighter lighter shade of brown than the fantastical Frye’s; for a mere $49.99, in comparison to the $218.00 needed to make Frye your own, they feature the very same sophisticated cowgirl aesthetic of the originals, at a price that is far more pleasing for the budget fashionista’s pockets!

What’s your bank account telling you to do, kittens? Will you be a big spender with Frye, or play the role of the thrifty fashionista?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Bloomingdale’s and Target for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings from Asquared Jewelry.

Don't forget to enter the Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway for your chance to win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Shopbop.

Hi, I Adore You...

Adoring: Design*Sponge’s Living in Love Story (how one could possibly resist Ali MacGraw is truly beyond my comprehension); Pumpkin Patches – preferably accompanied by a cute boy; Cozy knits a la Marc by Marc Jacobs’ Buzzy Fair Isle Sweater Leg Warmers; Preppy monogrammed tote bags in jewel tones; Ernest Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises (a part of me will forever long to be the fiery Lady Brett Ashley); Southwestern styles – specifically Eternal Sunshine Creations’ Paca Skirt; Starbucks’ Caramel Apple Spice.

Tell me, my loves; what are you currently adoring?


Fashionably yours!


NOTE: Click the picture to enlarge the collage, if you so desire.


Don't forget to enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway for your chance to win a pair of Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings from Asquared Jewelry.

Don't forget to enter the Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway for your chance to win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Shopbop.

I Dream of Baubles Giveaway

Darlings, it was Ms. Audrey Hepburn herself who proclaimed “You can always tell what kind of a person a man really thinks you are by the earrings he gives you.” But who needs a boy – regardless of his magnitude of cuteness – to give you a pair of earrings, when you can simply take home a jaw-dropping duo of your own courtesy of the ultra-talented Ashly McLean of Asquared Jewelry?

Oui, oui, dolls! Café Fashionista has teamed up with Asquared Jewelry to bring one (1) of you gem-loving glamazons a pair of the very fall appropriate Olivine and Padparadscha Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings!

To Enter the I Dream of Baubles Giveaway:

♥Visit the Asquared Jewelry Shop and select your favorite piece.

♥ For one (1) entry, leave a comment on this post stating what your favorite Asquared piece is between now and Friday, October 29, 2010 at midnight PST.

♥ For two (2) entries, Twitter about this giveaway, and leave a comment on this post stating what your favorite Asquared piece is between now and Friday, October 29, 2010 at midnight PST with your Twitter URL.

♥ For three (3) entries, become a follower of Café Fashionista on Blogger/Google Reader/Google Friend Connect/Twitter, and leave a comment on this post stating what your favorite Asquared piece is between now and Friday, October 29, 2010 at midnight PST (if you are already a Café Fashionista follower, please say so in your comment).

I will randomly pick one (1) name out of a hat (who knows, it could be yours!), and announce the winner on Saturday, October 30, 2010.

Good luck everyone!

This Giveaway is open to U.S. and Canadian Residents!


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Asquared Jewelry for the picture.

Before I Was a Fashionista...

Everyone has a fashion faux pas tucked away in their past - don't deny it, I know you do. A little obsession with a fleeting trend, an adoration of something tres embarrassing. Lucky for you, I'm in a sharing mood; thus, I am allowing all of you un petit coup d'oeil into my less-than-fabulous past via one of my favorite sites...Before You Were Hot - check it out here, my loves!

Oh, and don't forget to let me know...what fashion faux pas is lingering in your past? Submit your photos here!


Fashionably yours!

Thrifty Thursday: Joie Morning Dew Ribbed Sweater Leggings for Less

Darlings, to your left allow your eyes to take in the loveliness that is Joie’s Morning Dew Ribbed Sweater Leggings; to the right prepare yourself to fall in love with the marvelousness of Mossimo Supply Co.’s Rib Sweater Legging.

While the gray shade of the Mossimo’s is ever so slightly lighter than that seen upon the Joie pretties; for a mere $14.99, as opposed to the $198.00 price tag of the Joie gems, they are every bit as capable of keeping the wearer cozy, whilst ensuring that she looks très chic at the very same time – all while adhering to her frugalista budget!

So mes chéris, what are you up to today? Will your AmEx take a beating with a splurge, or will you stay safe and thrifty with a frugal buy?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Bloomingdale’s and Target for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway for your chance to win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Shopbop.

Don't forget to enter The Magic Fifty Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Card to Macy’s.

♥ Fashionably Moi! ♥

♥Wearing: Forever 21 Basic V-Neck Top in Taupe; Forever 21 Antique Pendant Necklace; Truck Jeans Gray Stretch Skinny Jean via Alloy; Steve Madden Maryn Boots in Cognac; Ribbed Knit Leg Warmers in Ivory via Sock Dreams; Textured Bangle Set in Gold from Forever 21; Key to Love Double Ring in Gold from Forever 21.

♥Reading: Envy (Luxe Series # 3) by Anna Godbersen. Devastatingly addicting; Godbersen is truly a literary genius. J’adore times infinité!

♥Glamourizing: Nails: Essie’s Wicked. Dark, vampy, and divine. Lips: mark Pro Gloss Hook Up Plumping Lip Shine in Sexy. Long-lasting and luscious…amour! Eyes: mark I-Mark Custom Pick Eye Shadow in Nomadic.

♥Listening: Any Fun by Coconut Records. This is one of those rare songs that I am utterly incapable of growing tired of - c'est magnifique!

♥Adoring: Chilly days spent curled up in chunky knit sweaters a la Ami Dans La Rue’s Cashmere Wide Neck Sweater in Nude. Target’s Cadee Bootie Slippers. I already have them in Tan; now I want them in Brown, Black, and Grey! Afternoon tête-à-têtes at Starbucks, complete with White Chocolate Mochas.

♥Watching: The Vampire Diaries: The Complete First Season on DVD. Un petit present from ma mere for having graduated from college last week!

♥Desiring: Haute Hippie Suede Spats with Fringe. I cannot say what, precisely, I need fringed spats for. Nevertheless, I find these incredibly irrésistible, and I want them desperately. Cheap Monday’s Net Tight Skinny Jeans. I am, after all, a child of the 80s – though late; thus, it should come as no surprise that ignoring the lure of acid wash denim in any way, shape, or form is somewhat of a…challenge. Anything and everything Cassette Society – specifically the Acidic Heart Tee Dress. Le simplicity of this line is what makes it all so striking.

♥Quoting: Oscar Wilde - “The true mystery of the world is the visible, not the invisible.”

♥Awaiting: L.J. Smith’s The Vampire Diaries # 3 - 4: The Fury and Dark Reunion, Nightfall (Vampire Diaries: The Return Series # 1), Shadow Souls (Vampire Diaries: The Return Series # 2), and Anna Godbersen’s Splendor (Luxe Series # 4). Fall is my absolute préféré time of year for curling up with a good book; therefore I have already begun stocking up!

But enough about moi; let’s talk about…vous. Time to give me the lowdown on your life, lovers! What are you up to this week?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Tumblr for the picture.


Don't forget to enter the Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway for your chance to win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Shopbop.

Don't forget to enter The Magic Fifty Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Card to Macy’s.

Tightwad Tuesday: Prada Black Studded Suede Cross Strap Sandals for a Steal

Dolls, in the left corner we have Prada’s blissful Black Studded Suede Cross Strap Platform Sandals – the very same ones seen gracing the tootsies of both Anna Dello Russo and the charming Carey Mulligan; in the right corner we have XOXO’s haute Hollywood Platform Sandal.

Though the XOXO lovely is constructed out of a synthetic upper and manmade sole, as opposed to the suede upper of the Prada pretty; for just $79.99, as opposed to the $795.00 asking price of the Prada’s, they are just as capable of making the wearer feel like a Hollywood starlet – at a fraction of the price!

Tell me, kittens…will you be a big spender and go for Prada, or be thrifty and spring for XOXO?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Bluefly and Endless for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway for your chance to win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Shopbop.

Don't forget to enter The Magic Fifty Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Card to Macy’s.

Play It Again, Sam

Clint Eastwood - Gorillaz
Costume Party - Two Door Cinema Club
The Suburbs - The Arcade Fire
Lions in Cages - Wolf Gang
Take A Bow - Rihanna
Change Clothes - Jay-Z feat. Pharrell
When I Grow Up - First Aid Kit
The Reeling - Passion Pit
Cry Me A River - Justin Timberlake feat. Timbaland
Self Control - Sunday Girl
What song has left you with the urge to say Play It Again, Sam this week, my loves?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Tumblr for the picture.


Don't forget to enter the Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway for your chance to win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Shopbop.

Don't forget to enter The Magic Fifty Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Card to Macy’s.

Sunday Steals: Paige Denim Corduroy Verdugo Jeggings for Less

Darlings, if you would so kindly allow your pretty peepers to rove to the left, you will spot Paige Denim’s très chic Corduroy Verdugo Jeggings; now take a gander to the right and you will see GAP’s glorious Always Skinny Cords.

While the ambrosial Always Skinny Cords lack the tonal stitching upon the back pockets a la the Paige Denim darlings; for just $59.50, in comparison to the $148.00 price tag of the Corduroy Verdugo Jeggings, they are every bit as ideal for welcoming the cool fall weather – at a price that allows one to splurge on all four colors (flint gray, true indigo, black, and tomato)!

Are you having a tightwad moment darlings, or are you plagued with a craving to splurge?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Shopbop and GAP for the pictures.


Don't forget to enter the Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway for your chance to win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Shopbop.

Don't forget to enter The Magic Fifty Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Card to Macy’s.

Smitten Saturday

♥By the Book…because the ravishing reader that is vous knows that the only truly proper accompaniment to a classique novel on a blustery day is a knit that is equal parts charming, cozy, and très chic – precisely what the pretties created by By Malene Birger are. The Baquilla Mohair Sweater; the Azalea Cardigan; the Aslo Scarf. Pinch me, I must be dreaming! Which By Malene Birger beauty is calling out to you, darlings?

♥Cup O’ Cocoa…because, in the words of Marilyn Monroe, “A kiss on the hand may be quite continental. But [chocolate] is a girl’s best friend.” At least when the chocolate on the tip of your tongue is the Oregon Kiss! from Sahagun Handmade Chocolates. Valrhona Milk Chocolate, fleur de sel, and Organic Oregon Hazelnuts mingle amongst one another in a bittersweet cocoa cup that is yours for the biting. Tell me kitty cats; are you coveting a cup o’ cocoa?

♥Sam I Am…because behind every fashionable femme fatale’s footwear collection lies a debonair gentleman with the skills to construct saucy stepper’s armed with the power to put a true spring in our gazelle-like gaits…the man in question is Sam Edelman. Buckled bliss a la the Vancouver Suede Lace Up Booties; un petit country/western charm courtesy of the Naharra Piped High Heel Boots; Oxford-style in the form of the elegant Effie Suede Wedge Booties. Which Sam style can you picture accoutering your tantalizing tootsies, my loves?

♥The Age of Le Luxe…because the literista (literary + fashionista = literista!) knows that luxury is not merely found within the Luv Aj Fool’s Gold Knuckle Buster Ring seen upon your fingers, or the Friend of Mine Wylder Dress hugging your svelte figure; oftentimes it is found within the pages of un petit volume of verse, as evidenced by Anna Godbersen’s…The Luxe. One part The Age of Innocence; two parts Gossip Girl. Brace yourselves dolls; you’re about to enter the year 1899 like you’ve never see it before!

♥Swap Shop…because the skilled stylista knows better than to simply toss her unneeded fashion finds to the wayside; rather, she swaps them for something even better in order to spruce up her wardrobe, and do good at the very same time. In honor of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Swap for Good has been established; an organization wherein one can hold a clothing swap that doubles as a fundraiser for the domestic violence shelter of their choice. As they say, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.”

What were you smitten with this week, my loves?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Tumblr for the picture.


Don't forget to enter the Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway for your chance to win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Shopbop.

Don't forget to enter The Magic Fifty Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Card to Macy’s.

Shopbop is for DSQUARED2 Giveaway

Darlings, Shopbop is an online locale synonymous with a shopping vortex, which sucks you in with tantalizing names such as DSQUARED2 (I’m currently coveting a pair of their Glitter Super Slim Jeans), Rachel Roy (whose Art Deco Turtleneck has swooning powers), Rag and Bone (the name alone gives me shivers up and down my spine), and a List of Shopbop Designers that will leave you salivating – seductively, of course. Now one (1) of you high-fashion stylistas has the chance to go on un petit shopping spree at the highly-covetable one stop shop!

That’s right, my loves; Café Fashionista has teamed up with Branding Brand, on behalf of Shopbop, to bring one of you glamazons a $100.00 Gift Certificate to the shopping destination of the hour, wherein you can select anything your heart desires!

To Enter the Shopbop Is For DSQUARED2 Giveaway:

♥For one (1) entry, leave a comment on this post stating what you would buy with your gift certificate between now and Friday, October 22, 2010 at midnight PST.

♥For two (2) entries, Twitter about this giveaway, and leave a comment on this post stating what you would buy with your gift certificate between now and Friday, October 22, 2010 at midnight PST with your Twitter URL.

♥For three (3) entries, become a follower of Café Fashionista on Blogger/Google Reader/Google Friend Connect/Twitter, and leave a comment on this post stating what you would buy with your gift certificate between now and Friday, October 22, 2010 at midnight PST (if you are already a Café Fashionista follower, please say so in your comment).

I will randomly pick one (1) name out of a hat (who knows, it could be yours!), and announce the winner on Saturday, October 23, 2010.

Good luck everyone!

And yes, this giveaway is open to everyone – U.S. or International residents!


Thanks to Shopbop for the picture.

Thrifty Thursday: Givenchy Multi-Strap Wedge for Less

My loves, to the left take a gander at Givenchy’s marvelous Multi-Strap Wedge, the very same one seen dazzling upon the tootsies of Kaley Cuoco, Taylor Swift, Mary-Kate Olsen, and Ciara; to the right feast your eyes upon Jessica Simpson’s tantalizing Tito Wedge Sandal.

Though the wedge height of the Simpson stunner is ever so slightly lower than that of the glamorous Givenchy; for just $119.00, as opposed to the $519.00 required to make the Givenchy’s your very own, they are just as capable of lending a bit of sass to your strut, at a price that no frugalista could possibly resist!

Now the question remains…will you be thrifty, or suckered into putting on your spendthrift cap?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to Endless for the picture.


Don't forget to enter The Magic Fifty Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Card to Macy’s.

Don't forget to enter the In the Navy Giveaway for your chance to win a Hermes Birkin-inspired Diana Satchel in Navy from Mimi Boutique.

♥ Fashionably Moi! ♥

♥Wearing: Floral Print Crochet Tank from Wet Seal; Forever 21 Moderate Stretch Skinny Jean in Dark Denim; Steve Madden Maryn Boot in Distressed Stone Leather (I bought these boots in all three colors – Distressed Stone Leather, Cognac, and Black during the Nordstrom Annual Sale – best purchases of my life…these boots are AMAZING!); Forever 21 Textured Bangle Set in Gold; Forever 21 Stone Center Ring in Brown/Gold.

♥Reading: The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening by L.J. Smith. Though I’m a bit late to join The Vampire Diaries bandwagon; I can honestly say that oui, it is my latest obsession. And just for the record, I am complètement Team Stefan. Also, I secretly want to be Elena.

♥Glamourizing: Nails: Orly’s Space Cadet from the Cosmic FX Collection. This is THE color for fall – sometimes it’s green, others it’s purple, or bronze, or orange…the chameleon-like ability of this lacquer is très inconceivable – yet utterly incroyable. Lips: mark Glow Baby Glow Luxe Hook Up Lip Gloss in Sun Luxe – my new can’t-leave-home-without – truly the perfectionner nude shade complete with a sassy subtle shimmer. J’adore! Eyes: CoverGirl LineExact Liquid Liner in Very Black. Amour! But make it available in a larger size, s'il vous plait!

♥Listening: As If by Blaque. Years ago I would fast-forward to the end of the movie Bring It On multiple times per day just so I could watch this music video. Even now I find it utterly irrésistible!

♥Adoring: Legwarmers a la the Ribbed Knit Leg Warmers I purchased from Sock Dreams. They are perfection layered over skinny jeans, or under knee-high riding boots. Jessica Stam, Izabel Goulart, and Arlenis Sosa for the Fall 2010 Express Ad Campaign – shot by Patrick Demarchelier. Girlfriends, glamour, and gorgeous clothes – honestly, what more could a girl possibly need? Forever 21’s Antique Pendant Necklace – the newest addition to my bauble collection. Aimer l'amour!

♥Watching: The Princess Diaries. Michael Moscovitz (aka Robert Schwartman of Rooney)…swoon times infinity!

♥Desiring: Plush Legwarmer Leggings. I rendezvous with these leggings during my slumber. A legging. A legwarmer. I have never before seen such a clever creation - incroyable! La Mer Collections’ Silver Motor Chain Watch – edgy, elegant, enchanting…hi, j’adore you! Velvetine Pete Hobo – be still my heart. Ooh, I can just see Serena van der Woodsen traipsing about the Upper East Side with this baby slung over her shoulder! Voulez, ayez besoin, l'amour!

♥Quoting: La Rochefoucauld - “A fashionable woman is always in love - with herself.”

♥Awaiting: Truck Jeans Gray Stretch Skinny Jean. Le wardrobe is dominated by dark wash skinnies; I thought a légèrement lighter hue would be beneficial. Therefore, I’m going gray, mon cheries - denim-wise, that is!

But enough about moi; let’s talk about…vous. Time to give me the lowdown on your life, lovers! What are you up to this week?


Fashionably yours!


Thanks to The Fashion Reporter for the picture.


Don't forget to enter The Magic Fifty Giveaway for your chance to win a $50.00 Gift Card to Macy’s.

Don't forget to enter the In the Navy Giveaway for your chance to win a Hermes Birkin-inspired Diana Satchel in Navy from Mimi Boutique.