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February 2, 2018

Beautiful Bridesmaid Dresses on a Budget

Being part of a wedding party is an exciting honor, but it’s also an expensive one. With shower gifts, bachelorette festivities and everything in between, accepting a role as a bridesmaid is also accepting a big hit to your wallet. One thing that doesn’t have to be pricey: the bridesmaid dresses. There are so many options that are simple, stylish and, yes, affordable. Whether you’re the bride picking out matching frocks for your besties or a maid of honor gently advocating for more affordable bridesmaid dresses, check out these fabulous and frugal finds.

Scarlett Sleeveless Empire-Waist Dress

Lace cap sleeves, a sweetheart neckline and an empire waist make this dreamy little dress a classic and super-flattering choice. And at $90, bridesmaids can wear it once and then ditch or donate without guilt.

Scarlett Sleeveless Empire-Waist Dress

from JCPenney

Melrose Sleeveless Embellished Fit-and-Flare Dress

Since this dress is available in multiple soft hues, bridesmaids can mix or match down the aisle for just $65 a person. The crisscross embellished top slims, while the mid-length flare skirt flows beautifully on all body types.

Melrose Sleeveless Embellished Fit-and-Flare Dress
from JCPenney

Tricks of the Trade Maxi Dress

Look like a Grecian goddess walking down the aisle in this versatile and stunning number. At only $80, it’s like getting four dresses for the price of one, since it can be wrapped and worn multiple ways (as a one-shoulder, cross-front, strapless or halter style). The jersey knit hugs and flatters curves, and, better yet, each bridesmaid can choose which configuration suits her body best.

Tricks of the Trade Maxi Dress

from Lulu’s

Falling for You Maxi Dress

A stunning rusty-rose color and sheer straps that overlay a strapless sweetheart bodice make this cascading gown a dress to remember — at a bargain price of $91.

Falling for You Maxi Dress

from Lulu’s

Flare Dress With Pockets

Navy is a classic choice for bridesmaid dresses, and this retro-inspired number is a reserved but playful (can you say “pockets”?) choice. The bateau neckline and gathered high waist exude ceremony-worthy sophistication, while the flare bottom screams party time! Best of all, you can justify the sensible $119 price tag, since this re-wearable frock will never go out of style.

Flare Dress With Pockets

from ModCloth
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Faux-Wrap Midi Dress

Easily dressed up for the big day or toned down for work, this bright midi dress is equal parts fun and practical — and for $58, it’s a steal you can wear again and again. Plus, the faux-wrap style cinches waistlines for a more flattering fit.

Faux-Wrap Midi Dress

from Kohl’s

Sequin Lace Gown

This elegant gown features an intricately embroidered lace bodice with sequin accents and a sheer illusion neckline and back. The vibrantly deep eggplant purple is not for the wallflower bridesmaid, but at just over $100 it’s a lot of dress for not a lot of money.

Sequin Lace Gown

from Bluefly

Sweetheart Lace Skater Dress

Discount bridesmaid dresses don’t have to be frumpy or unflattering. Available in blush, navy and burgundy hues, this adorable crochet skater dress is simultaneously sweet and sexy, flirty and fun — all for less than $50.

Sweetheart Lace Skater Dress

from Charlotte Russe

January 17, 2018

Working With Ultra Violet, Pantone’s 2018 Color of the Year

Pantone’s color of the year is Ultra Violet, a regal blue-purple that celebrates originality, visionary thinking and the ability to take our mystical and imaginative awareness to the next level. This enigmatic shade, popularized by musical icons (David Bowie, Prince and Jimi Hendrix, for example), is all about individuality and nonconformity. Celebrate a dreamy state of being with these Ebates finds below, all in the spirited hue.

Eileen Fisher Drop-Shoulder Pocket Wool Sweater

The basic drop-shoulder sweater gets the royal treatment in this magical shade. We love it to add a punch to jeans or poking out from underneath your favorite winter jacket. The silhouette is structured yet still cozy.

Drop-Shoulder Pocket Wool Sweater
from Bloomingdale’s

B.tempt’d by Wacoal Lace Kiss Bralette

If you’re not exactly the bold color type of person, an interesting way to experiment with Ultra Violet is with your lingerie. This pretty bralette is comfortable and flirty.

B.tempt’d by Wacoal Lace Kiss Bralette
from Bare Necessities

Tabitha Simmons Jodie Satin Platform Sandal

Everyone needs a very special pair of shoes. These doll-like platforms will lift more than your height — dress up basic jeans or a simple black dress, or even experiment with mixed prints.

Tabitha Simmons Jodie Satin Platform Sandal
from Barney’s New York
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Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Bright Violet

A pop of hot violet is the new magenta and red when it comes to makeup trends. Keep the rest of your face neutral to allow this shade to take center stage.

Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Bright Violet
from Sephora

Lululemon Get Set Bra

Keep your commitment to New Year’s resolutions with this Ultra Violet sports bra. Come summer, you can even transition it into a fun crop-top that works outside of the gym.

Lululemon Get Set Bra
from Lululemon

Benefit Lollitint Cheek and Lip Stain

This liquid cheek stain adds a burst of violet sheen to cheekbones. Paint a bit on your lips for a subtle hint of color.

Benefit Lollitint Cheek and Lip Stain
from Benefit Cosmetics

December 27, 2017

7 Après-Ski Sweaters Your Chic Winter Closet Needs

A crackling fire, a cup of cocoa and a picture-perfect snowy slope — the après-ski life is equal parts cozy and chic. Snuggle up after a few good runs on the bunny hill (or the black diamond trail, if you dare) in one of these super-soft, crazy-comfy and fabulously fashion-forward sweater styles. We’ve rounded up our top pick in each cuddle-worthy category from cardigan to cashmere to turtleneck. You’ll look fabulous and feel toasty at the lodge in these women’s winter sweaters.

The Turtleneck Sweater

Two styles in one gorgeous blush-pink sweater, this chunky-knit turtleneck features a button so you can unfasten the neck and instantly transform it into a crewneck. Après-ski wear doesn’t get more versatile!

Tory Burch Detachable Turtleneck

from Bloomingdale’s

The Classic Crew-Neck Sweater

Nothing says “snow day” like a classic fair isle sweater. This playful patterned pullover is a perfect addition to your ski-trip sweater collection.

J.Crew Fair Isle Pullover
from J.Crew

The Hoodie Sweater

More polished than a sweatshirt, this soft-wool hoodie sweater drapes beautifully and can easily be dressed up or down. From the airport to the ski lodge and back again, you’ll want to live in this casual-meets-luxe look.

Ann Taylor Hoodie Sweater

from Ann Taylor

The Cashmere Sweater

A cashmere sweater is a closet staple — and this simple and classic V-neck style feels as delicious as it looks.

Neiman Marcus V-Neck Sweater
from Neiman Marcus

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The Cardigan Sweater

You can practically feel yourself snuggling up in this zip-up cardigan sweater. The merino wool and intricate cable knit give us all the warm and fuzzies — literally.

Marc Jacobs Cable-Knit Cardigan
from Saks Fifth Avenue

The Chenille Sweater

Chenille is having a major fashion moment, and this stylish ruffled sweater will keep you looking like a trendy ski bunny.

Melrose and Market Ruffled Sweater
from Nordstrom Rack

The Cape Sweater

You can walk the stylish, snow-filled streets of Aspen with confidence in this super-chic cape sweater — just add long leather gloves. Women’s ski fashion can be ultra-relaxed and über-sleek.

Forever 21 Cape Sweater

from Forever 21

December 22, 2017

Bring on the Bling: 6 Gorgeous Dresses for New Year’s Eve

If there’s any night to really go over the top, it’s New Year’s Eve. We’re talking sequins and sparkles; glitter and glamour; shimmer and shine. Gold, silver and anything-but-basic black make up the majority of the holiday dresses we selected for dancing your way into a seriously glam night out, but we’ve thrown in a few unexpected picks too — just to shake things up. So pop the champagne, bring on the bling and let’s get this celebration started!

Jovani Short-Sleeve Cocktail Dress

The effortlessly sexy sheath silhouette of this dress and its large iridescent embellishments add up to one showstopping number.

Jovani Short-Sleeve Cocktail Dress
from Neiman Marcus

Cinched-Waist Metallic Jumpsuit

If your evening plans are slightly more casual (perhaps a date-night dinner out), this metallic-printed jumpsuit is polished, pretty and perfectly apropos.

Cinched-Waist Metallic Jumpsuit
from Old Navy

J.Crew Collection Tie-Shoulder Sequin Dress

Jaws will drop when you walk into the party wearing this slinky disco-ball-inspired number.

J.Crew Collection Tie-Shoulder Sequin Dress
from J.Crew

Forever 21 Sequined Mermaid Maxi Dress

Va va voom! This mermaid dress is a spectacular style to help you ring in the New Year right.

Forever 21 Sequined Mermaid Maxi Dress
from Forever 21

Vince Camuto Sequined Chevron Sheath Dress

The chevron pattern is having a major moment in fashion, and sequins are, of course, classic — so this combo is both timeless and trendy.

Vince Camuto Sequined Chevron Sheath Dress
from Macy’s

Lulus Sparks Fly Black Star-Print Maxi Dress

The stars will align on Dec. 31, and your dress will shine bright. This gorgeous maxi shows ample leg and décolletage, and it’s a great option for anyone celebrating under the stars.

Lulus Sparks Fly Black Star-Print Maxi Dress
from Lulus

November 10, 2017

8 Seriously Chic Winter Coats That Make a Statement

Baby, it’s cold outside. And that flimsy boyfriend blazer you’ve been rocking since September isn’t going to cut it. You’ve got to get yourself a functional and fashionable statement coat to keep you feeling cozy and looking chic in this woeful wintery weather. From fabulous faux-fur styles to wind-resistant wool jackets, we’ve rounded up a few super-cool coats to keep you super-warm from now through spring.

Miss Selfridge Faux-Fur-Trimmed Toggle Coat

This gorgeous black toggle coat has a fuzzy faux-fur-trimmed hood that is equal parts casual and refined.

Miss Selfridge Faux-Fur-Trimmed Toggle Coat
from Lord & Taylor

Apt. 9 Wool-Blend Jacket

Pop that collar, cinch that waist belt and stay polished from 9 to 5 and beyond in this crisp wool-blend coat.

Apt. 9 Wool-Blend Jacket
from Kohl’s

Joie Kavasia Faux-Fur Coat

You’re going to want to live in this comfy collared faux-fur Joie jacket. It’s like a robe you can wear outside. Winning.

Joie Kavasia Faux-Fur Coat
from Saks Fifth Avenue

Banana Republic x Olivia Palermo Military Coat

Statement winter coats don’t get more sophisticated than this ravishing-in-red long style, created by fashion icon Olivia Palermo. Embellished and tailored, it’s at once feminine and timeless.

Banana Republic x Olivia Palermo Military Coat
from Banana Republic

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Gap Shearling Suede Coat

Cozy shearling and beautiful Sherpa suede lining make this pea coat as comfortable as it is stunning.

Gap Shearling Suede Coat
from Gap

Loft Tie-Cuff Cape Coat

This maroon cape-style coat features tie cuffs and exudes effortless style and everyday elegance.

Loft Tie-Cuff Cape Coat
from Loft

J.Crew Daphne Coat in Italian Tweed

This gorgeous, colorful Italian tweed is weighty enough to keep you warm all winter. Better yet, the coat features an inner lipstick pocket — because you’re always prepared.

J.Crew Daphne Coat in Italian Tweed
from J.Crew

Lands’ End Hybrid Coat

This hybrid coat and puffer jacket ensures you’ll be toasty on the coldest days of the year. With soft quilting and a tapered fit, you’ll look pretty and stay protected against the outdoor elements.

Lands’ End Hybrid Coat
from Lands’ End

October 20, 2017

7 Chic Mom Bags That Hold Everything But the Kitchen Sink

Moms are always prepared. Need a Band-Aid? She’s got you covered. Want some hand sanitizer? She’s your go-to gal. Yearning for a snack or a drink or a coloring book? Look no further — Mama has it all in that big ol’ bag of hers. Bottomless pits of stuff, mom bags need to be both large and functional because we like to carry everything but the kitchen sink — and that’s only because it doesn’t fit. With lots of practical pockets and smart features, these stylish and roomy handbags can hold veritable pharmacies — because #momlife means being ready for anything with all the things. We’ve rounded up the best baby bags that aren’t actually meant to be diaper bags, because you’re going to want to hold onto these spacious accessories for years to come.

Banana Republic August Handbag

Inspired by global travel, this gorgeous, textured, open-style tote can fit everything you’ll need for a day of exploration — and anything you may acquire along the way. Plus, for every bag sold, August will donate a backpack to Operation School Bell, a nonprofit that provides clothes to students in need in the Los Angeles Unified School District. Now that’s a splurge you can feel good about, Mom.

Banana Republic August Handbag
from Banana Republic

Tory Burch Satchel

This sleek and chic satchel features a double handle and an adjustable shoulder strap so you can haul all those must-haves with ease and style.

Tory Burch Satchel
from Tory Burch

Cole Haan StudioGrand 2-in-1 Tote

This bag will take you from the office to the gym to school pickup. It features water-resistant leather and easily converts to a small studio bag, so you can grab it all and go or take only what you need.

Cole Haan StudioGrand 2-in-1 Tote
from Cole Haan
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Kendall + Kylie Koenji Asymmetric Backpack

Sometimes Mom needs two hands. (Actually, she could use a few more, but that’s a whole other topic.) This asymmetric leather backpack keeps you free to hold babies, push strollers and slay dragons.

Kendall + Kylie Koenji Asymmetric Backpack
from Neiman Marcus

Topshop Leather Slouch Grab Tote

This slouch tote is deceivingly large on the inside, so you can carry all the picture books, water bottles, granola bars and iPads. You know, the necessities.

Topshop Leather Slouch Grab Tote
from Topshop

Tory Burch Ella Tote

Durable and strong, this iconic Tory Burch tote boasts a spacious interior that can easily fit all the essentials. Plus, its polished look will help you stay gorgeous on the go — even if you’re still wearing yoga pants with a pajama top.

Tory Burch Ella Tote
from Tory Burch

Kate Spade Cameron Street Perforated Large Satchel

The best diaper bags are large and in charge — or not even diaper bags at all! This structured and spacious satchel is fashion-forward, pretty and practical for both Mama and Baby.

Kate Spade Cameron Street Perforated Large Satchel
from Macy’s

October 10, 2017

On-Trend Power Pieces to Work Into Your Streetwear

From a boardroom-ready blazer to your most professional pumps, there’s no doubt that certain pieces in your wardrobe make you feel professional, put together and powerful. Luckily, pulling traditionally office-only pieces into everyday street wear is a popular trend taking root. When you feel strong and capable in your outfit, anything is possible. Elevate your out-of-the-office apparel with the four pieces below, along with styling suggestions for how to wear them.

Try a Pop of a Power Hue

Bright colors command power. In the office, playing with a majorly pigmented piece is a way to bring yourself attention. For this season, we love bright purple, like this surprisingly wearable skirt from Asos. You can tone down the dressiness with a basic tee or a simple tank, or try it knotted for a truly effortless street look. Pair it with sneakers to make it extra casual.

Satin Pleated Midi Skirt with Thigh Split
from Asos

Kick Back in a Dressy Flat

Dressier work shoes don’t have to be paired only with formal skirts and trousers. You can easily wear them with jeans, leggings or even short mini dresses when you’re out on the town. They’re a nice alternative to sneakers, which had their big moment a few seasons ago. We like them because they’re flat and easy to get around in, but still add a fun element to a simple outfit. Try these with a pair of boyfriend or skinny jeans, a cable-knit sweater and a trench.

Strappy Polka-Dot Flats
from J. Crew

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Get Casual With Prints

Prints are a fun way to play with work clothes, which can sometimes feel stuffy. During work hours, pair this top with a brightly hued pencil skirt. On nights and weekends, transform it into funky street wear by adding a pair of sandals and wearing a slip dress over it. You can also tuck it into jeans or pull it on over a pair of leggings.

Silk Star Scatter Tie-Sleeve Top
from Madewell

Tone Down a Work Bag

Backpacks have been trending for a while, and this leather one is a style you can easily wear to the office or hit the streets with. It’s grown up but still very functional. We love swapping out a canvas tote with this bag to go to a yoga class or bum around with friends. Try it with a pair of leggings, an oversized sweater and a loafer for a casual dinner look too.

Mackage Tanner Backpack
from Club Monaco

September 12, 2017

Quiz: What Hot Fall Trend Should You Rock This Season?

Shop the Results

5 Makeup Must-Haves That Pull Double Duty

It’s easy to indulge yourself in the name of beauty. After all, a new lipstick or a fun eye shadow doesn’t make that big of a dent in the budget, right? But all of those little cosmetic splurges add up. And despite what many beauty blogs tell you, you don’t need 10,000 makeup products to look great. Thanks to multipurpose products, you can get by with a minimal makeup load.

Lip Balm

Come winter, you swear by the stuff to keep your lips smooth. But a high-quality lip balm can be used in a variety of ways. Rub it into your cuticles to keep your nails looking polished, or use it on your hair to keep flyaways at bay. You can also mix your balm with a little eye shadow for a glossier look.

Stick to a cult classic with Kiehl’s famous Lip Balm #1.

Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1
from Neiman Marcus

Mascara

A great mascara will keep your lashes looking longer and fuller, but you can also use it as an eyeliner. Here’s how: Bring the wand up to your lash line, making sure to get the brush as close to the eyelid as possible. Instead of sweeping upward, wiggle it back and forth on the bottom lash line.

Try Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Mascara for an intense look.

Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Mascara
from Target

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Cream Blush

A pretty cream blush is amazing for giving you a pretty, flushed glow. You can also use the product for a makeshift eye shadow, or mix it with a balm for a DIY lip color. Use your middle finger to lightly tap the cream onto your lips and lids.

Try e.l.f. Beautifully Bare Blush for a natural-looking effect

e.l.f. Beautifully Bare Blush
from Ulta Beauty

BB Cream

You’ve probably heard of BB cream, but what is it? It’s a beauty and blemish cream that protects, corrects and moisturizes. Instead of splurging on moisturizers, concealers and foundations, you can get it all from this one product. Many BB creams even offer sunscreen, so you can skip that step too.

For an amazing BB cream, try Bobbi Brown BB Cream.

Bobbi Brown BB Cream
from Sephora

Multiple Stick

A good multiple stick is pretty much the only thing you need to pack for a long weekend away. We love ones that are bronzy and creamy. You can blend it with your body lotion for a shimmering body cream. You can mix it with your moisturizer for a little glow to add to your cheeks, lids and the center of your lips. Or you can use it to contour your face.

For a reliable multiple stick, try NARS The Multiple Stick.

NARS The Multiple Stick
from Sephora

August 19, 2017

Which Area Rug Is Right for Your Space?

Rugs do a lot for a room. They can brighten the mood, set the vibe and keep your feet warm on tile or wood floors. Rugs are an easy way to make an artistic statement and, if used correctly, they can add balance to a space. Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for a new rug.

Research Your Options

Rugs are no longer limited to Persian or European styles. You can go wild: jutes and sisals, edgy geometrics, novelty rugs, modern and contemporary alternatives. The list goes on and on. Before you commit to a style, educate yourself on what’s available and what overall vibe you want to go for in your home.

The natural colors in this rug will bring out the colors in your furniture and decor.

Safavieh Handmade Wool Rug
from Overstock

Size Matters

Tossing a tiny rug in a large space is a common interior-design faux pas. Decorators refer to this as the postage-stamp size. The measurements you want for area rugs are 6 feet by 9 feet, 8 feet by 10 feet or 9 feet by 12 feet. Center the rug in your room so the distance between the rug and the wall is the same on all four sides. If you’re unsure of the proper size for your room, err on the larger side. It’s better to go too big than too small.

You can also play around with shapes, such as this circular silver option.

Safavieh Adirondack Silver Rug
from Overstock

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Consider Your Colors

Is your room neutral, with light-toned walls and minimal decor? You may wish to try a patterned rug as a way to bring color into the space. On the flip side, solid- or neutral-colored rugs can tone down a busier room. Even if you opt to go extra on the color, make sure the colors aren’t too complicated—otherwise you’ll wind up with a complicated and visually cluttered space.

Spend time imagining different options that will work with your furniture colors. A monochromatic rug like this one looks great with patterned furniture, especially when matched to the furniture’s secondary color.

Moroccan Wool Flat Weave
from ABC Carpet & Home

Texture

Rugs are a fun way to bring new textures into a room. Silk rugs, although pricey and challenging to clean, are elegant and beautiful. If you opt for natural materials, such as sisal and jute, you can add warmth to a space.

This handwoven neutral-toned area rug plays with texture in a fun way.

Pero Flat Weave Cotton
from ABC Carpet & Home

Lifestyle and Upkeep

Do you have pets or children? You may wish to go for a patterned rug instead of a white rug, because patterned rugs hide stains better. High-pile or shag rugs also do not fit this type of lifestyle. Switch to a flat-weave or extremely low-pile rug to reduce the look of wear.

How much work are you willing to put into keeping your rug in great shape? Most require regular vacuuming. High-pile rugs are more challenging to clean; you’ll have to send them out or have them professionally cleaned in your home. As a general rule, they should be cleaned once a year. Low-pile and flat-weave rugs are easier to spot clean, and require twice-yearly old-fashioned rug beating to remove accumulated dust.