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October 10, 2016

5 Iconic Handbags: Get the Look for Less

National Handbag Day, October 10, is a day to celebrate all different types of handbags, from large leather satchels to tiny embellished clutches. It’s a fun holiday to recognize the importance of handbags in daily life and fashion. Sure, they are an essential item to hold your precious belongings, but they’re also are a simple way to make a style statement.

To show our love for this fabulous fashion accessory, we’ve brought together some of the most iconic handbags and their affordable counterparts. All of these items can be found with Cash Back at Ebates.

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6 Men’s Essentials Every Fall Wardrobe Needs

Temperatures are dropping, which means it’s time to freshen up your wardrobe. Layer like a pro with funnel necks and polos and stay cozy with the most stylish men’s essentials around, all while saving with Cash Back at Ebates. Prepare to beat the brrr and stock your closet with key fall and winter clothes for men with our list of favorite finds.

Classic Pea Coat

Guess Wool Blended Pea Coat, $150 | Macy’s

A must-have style staple, pea coats offer a sharp, tailored look and the warmth you crave from fall through winter. From wool-blends and heavyweight styles to unique prints and colors, swing by Macy’s for your go-to winter coat on a budget when you use a men’s essentials coupon. Black, grey, navy and olive colors offer amazing versatility for any fall or winter outfit but copper is the lead trending color this year.

Cold Weather Scarf

Blanket Strip Scarf, $20 | Banana Republic

There are no better men’s essentials for those chilly days than stylish scarves! Add a touch of casual to your business attire and work a chunky scarf into your weekend wardrobe. Go wild with a colorful, thick knit or stick to the basics with stripes or checked patterns. In one simple wrap, a cold weather scarf will keep your neck warm and ready to face the elements. Shop Banana Republic for men’s scarves in an array of styles and colors. From classic looks and bold solids to ultra-warm and roomy blanket scarves, these effortless accessories are the ultimate winter essentials for men.

Thick Sole Boots

Eastland High Fidelity Men’s Boots, $120 | Kohl’s

Trek through fall and winter flawlessly when you find your perfect pair of men’s boots. Soles are thick this year and hiking boots are set to be an essential part of your fall and winter wardrobe. Combining outdoor utility and modern design, Kohl’s makes it simple to find your new favorite footwear. Waterproof styles, tough soles, warm lace-ups and wool-lined looks mean your feet will never freeze as you wander through any weather looking as stylish as ever.

Slouchy Trousers

Sharpshot Slouchy Skinny Fit Chinos, $119 | Nordstrom

Pants are loosening up this season. Without getting sloppy, men’s hems are looser and easy to wear. Pair with a knitted polo shirt or even a silk button down as high shine items are part of this season’s look as well. Shop dress trousers and casual pants at Nordstrom for a tailored look that will bring you into fall effortlessly and comfortably.

Soft Knit Beanie

Waffle Beanie, $20 | Puma

Yes, beanies are in. From chunky, soft, knit styles to head-hugging hats with slogans, you’ll find it all this fall. Face whatever Mother Nature sends your way head on with the perfect beanie. Whether you’re into slouchy styles or a more fitted look, Puma offers an incredible collection of men’s hats to keep your head and ears nice and toasty. Shop the materials and colors you want from all your favorite brands, all while staying in style this season.

Warm Parka

Perry Ellis Big & Tall Microfiber Parka, $180 |Belk.com

A key addition to your men’s essentials, the right parka will keep the chill out like a champ. No matter your style, Belk.com offers men’s parkas with quilted lining, fur trim and waterproof looks. Browse tons of colors and cuts while saving with a promo code. Score a look with plenty of pockets to give your hands a little extra warmth! Hoods also keep your head warm and help you battle rain and snow in style. Layer with a ‘90s knit sweater to add some fun patterns and nostalgia to your everyday outerwear essentials and carry along some bright colors under your new winter look.

September 27, 2016

Fabulous Fall Sweaters Under $30 You Can’t Live Without

Summer is coming to a close. Now we have colorful leaves, spiced drinks, and cool weather to look forward to. Those chilly days out in the sun are perfect for wrapping up in a warm, comfy sweater and rocking that fall fashion look. But you want to do more than keep from shivering – you want to keep from breaking the bank before the holidays roll around.

Fashion can be frugal. Here are a few of the absolute must-have fall sweaters – gorgeous, spunky, and all under $30.

V Neck Batwing Sleeve Loose Sweater

Some looks never go out of fashion. With its extremely warm wool look matched to a style perfect for reclining under a tree with a good book or setting out on the town to see some unexplored parts of the city, this sweater is sophisticated, casual, and most of all – comfy! The airy sleeves are perfect for keeping you mobile with an extra bit of flair, and the neutral color will go with any outfit. Just pull it over your blouse when you want a bit of extra style and warmth, and you’re ready to go for just $23.99. You can get it at an even more frugal price by using coupons from Ebates plus Cash Back.

Longline Button-Down Cardigan

Something airy, easy to throw on if you’re in a hurry, and most importantly, something comfy to tug around you when the autumn chill catches in the air, this cardigan is slimming, soft, and super fashionable. The warm wine color is a perfect addition to any of your light colored outfits, and when you feel like curling up in your favorite nook with a book or Netflix, pull up the full hood to complete the cozy picture while keeping your ears toasty. With a price of $14.90 at Forever 21, it’s easy to match this up with a new pair of ankle boots without cutting into your Christmas savings thanks to Cash Back at Ebates.

Grey High Neck Cable Knit Sweater

Nothing beats those really chilly days or those windy weekends when you cuddle up with a warm drink and low lighting – and for those days, this sweater will keep you extra warm and extra cozy. With a thick, wool-like knit design, it’s all the classy and cute you can find in chic gray color. Featuring braided patterns up the arms and the front, it’ll keep you looking classic while the warm, high collar provides a lean, prestigious look. Perfect for a formal event or for meeting up with friends, it’s a great savings option for its price of $24.17 and for its ability to keep you warm in both fall and winter!

Sweater Tank

If you’re looking for double the sweater for double the combo options and warmth, then this tank-top style sweater is perfect for a customized outfit. With its slim design, it’s great on its own if the weather isn’t too chilly or if you’re hanging out indoors by a warm fire. It comes in both blue and white at a frugal price of just $29.99, so you can buy it in both colors, or order a jacket to achieve that layered look. Ultra soft and extra warm, if the sun comes out and the breeze stops, you can slip off your sleeves and let your shoulders take in some rays without getting too cold or too warm. As an added bonus, if you use a coupon from Ebates, you can save even more on the tank or get a great price on a second, heavier sweater.

Draped Tassel Sweater Shawl

With free-flowing sleeves and more than a touch of elegance, this light design will really catch people’s attention. The dusty rose color is a perfect transition from summer to fall. It’s soft, it’s airy, and it’s especially ideal during those not-quite-cold and not-quite-hot days where you want the perfect sweater to look great when you’re not sure about the weather. Whether you choose to use it as a wrap or a scarf, this is a perfect grab-and-go piece that will make you look effortlessly cool. At just $15.90 from Forever 21, it’s irresistible as both a fashion statement and a deal.

Keep warm and stay fashionable this fall by adding these beautiful sweaters to your wardrobe, all for under $30.

September 21, 2016

How to Create the Perfect Fall Office Wardrobe

We spend about one third of our lives – and up to 50% of our total waking hours – at work. By comparison, we spend about the same amount of time on meals, social events, entertainment and household activities combined. The silver lining of this is that when you have a strong work wardrobe centered around multi-purpose pieces, you set yourself up to look fabulous all day, every day.

Just like a balanced work life, a balanced office wardrobe can be the key to being happier and less stressed overall. You can do this by dedicating your wardrobe to five simple categories. Read through our what to wear to work guide to find our top tips on building a great wardrobe of work outfits that is also full of play-friendly pieces. Follow our shopping tips to find out how to save big on fall office wear items from our top stores and earn Cash Back at Ebates when you shop.

30% of Your Work Wardrobe: Work Only

No matter where you work, there are sure to be certain unspoken dress code rules. From the office to the workshop to the classroom, each job has its own kind of must-have clothing. Whether you need a stable of suits or hard-wearing washables, those pieces that are the foundation of your professional outfits should make up close to a third of your closet. These items should be exclusively work wear and you should try to keep them separate from your casual, exercise or around-the-house clothes. This way, when a piece wears out, you don’t create a gap in your whole wardrobe. A tailored no-iron dress shirt from Lands’ End is the perfect addition to your fall work clothes wardrobe because of its classic styling and ease of care.

10% of Your Work Wardrobe: Transitional

There are two kinds of transitional clothing: one kind made for changing weather and one kind made for changing circumstances. Weather-transitional pieces like medium-weight sweaters, cotton twill pants or accessories like scarves can be worn as temperatures fluctuate. Event-transitional pieces like cardigans or mid-length dresses can be worn from work to play and back again. Give a tenth of your work wardrobe to these types of purchases to give your look flexibility. It’s important to be able to choose an outfit that helps you feel ready for whatever surprises come your way. A light short-sleeved cardigan from LOFT is fit for both warm weather and cool and will fit in to any scene, from professional to casual.

10% of Your Work Wardrobe: Seasonal

Every time of year has its staple wardrobe items that are specific to that season. Winter has boots, spring has sundresses and summer has beachwear. You may be sad to see summer go, but fall does have the widest range of seasonal wear. Fall clothing trends range from cold-weather outerwear to sunny day sandals. Stock up on fall work fashion trends with a fall business casual promo code from Ebates and add flexibility to your whole wardrobe for less. An October sweater could come in handy on a cool evening in April or a long-sleeve layering tee could be useful on a warm winter afternoon. A neutral-tone animal print sweater by Bloomingdale’s made with a mid-weight cashmere for a lightweight layering piece is a perfect seasonal pick for autumn weather.

VIA SPIGA Women’s Prim, $194.95 (Shoes.com)

30% of Your Work Wardrobe: Personal

It’s important to be able to express your personal style at work. Dedicate a sizeable portion of your fall wardrobe to letting people know just what style you love. The most fun and affordable way to do this is with accessories and shoes. When your personal accents are not seasonally dependent, like earrings or a handbag, you can keep your personal sense of style clear and strong throughout the year. Signature shoes can always spice up your favorite cute work outfits and business clothes for women can get a personal flair with items like belts and pins.

20% of Your Work Wardrobe: Annual

Although a good wardrobe can be timeless, part of the fun of the season is shopping for the newest trends in fall office wear for this year. It’s crucial to keep 20% of your fall work outfits fresh and on trend each year. Get your hands on the most on-trend items for 2016 to keep your workday look up to date. Newly arrived at Ralph Lauren are on-point wool-blend herringbone jackets that are a must-have piece for 2016.

Wendy Williams Perforated Faux-Leather Skirt, $54.95 (HSN)

Which Trends to Wear at Work

You don’t have to replace the basics you already have to be on-trend this year. Just add a flash of this season’s colors. The fall color palette for 2016 is full of rich earthy colors accented with jewel-tones and metallics. A classic blue trench coat can be made chic with the addition of a silver statement pin or oversized eggplant purple scarf. Even your favorite old jeans can be on point when paired with a red belt or yellow flats.

Mixing the traditional with the unexpected is another trend for this fall. Try classic silhouettes in unusual fabrics like an A-line or skater skirt in perforated leather and top it with a blazer or cardigan. Spice up an office wear staple, like the mid-heel pump, by choosing an eye-catching color like a deep autumnal orange.

The fall look for 2016 is all about layers and volume. Don’t be afraid of volume-adding cuts like bat-wing sleeves or skater dresses. Keep your look balanced by wearing fitted foundation layers like body-hugging tees and tailored tops. With a sleek look underneath and billowing outer wear, your look will be breezy, cozy and fashion forward.

September 16, 2016

Here’s How to Rock 10 NYFW Trends for Less

New York Fashion Week is almost over and if you’ve been paying attention, you’re probably knee-deep in fall fashion inspiration. But if you’re worried about scoring designer and celebrity looks for less, fret not. We’ve rounded up some NYFW trends you can grab with Cash Back at Ebates for as little at $15! From shoes and accessories to must-have fall dresses, these pieces will easily complete your closet without busting your budget. Look like a star without the Hollywood paycheck with these 10 affordable celebrity style and designer-inspired staples.

The Sheer Paneled Blouse

White Sheer Lace Blouse, $14.90 (Choies)

One of the most-seen New York Fashion Week trends was sheer garments and paneling for a sexy accent.

The Rose Coat

Alice Boutique Silky Duster, $52 (Boohoo.com)

Pink and rose gold are still super hot colors for fall, making this duster your go-to statement piece of outerwear.

The Silver Shift

Eva Metallic Plunge Neck Shift Dress, $18 (Boohoo.com)

The runways saw their fair share of silver dresses in a loose, basic cut for a glam-meets-edgy aesthetic.

The Floral Maxi

Free People Printed Maxi Dress, $109.99 (Macy’s)

A bright, long-sleeve maxi brings a little summer sun into your fall wardrobe with some extra coverage to protect you from the cold.

The Lace Bomber

Nikibiki Floral Lace Bomber Jacket, $42.99 (Overstock.com)

Bomber jackets are very popular but lately they have been given an ultra-femme twist with florals and lace.

The Retro Handbag

Honeycomb Chenille Bag, $70 (Etsy)

With cutesy floral prints and chunky wooden handles, these 60s-inspired bags will add a little flower power to your fall looks.

The Geometric Shades

Le Specs ‘Savanna’ 51mm Sunglasses, $69 (Nordstrom)

Round lenses and square frames make for one head-turning pair of shades for those occasional bright days ahead.

The Belt Bag

Wendy Belt Bag, $58 (Rebecca Minkoff)

Belt bags aren’t going anywhere and are even getting bigger and bolder for a serious throwback to 80s style.

The High Waist Corduroy

Sammie Pant In Corduroy, $89.50 (J.Crew)

Colorful cords with a straight, boyfriend cut and high waist are a 70s-meets-90s trend you definitely want to try out.

The Orange Slingback

NINE WEST Slingback Pumps, $23.70 (Lord and Taylor)

Orange is the new red when it comes to pops of color for fall, making these sleek slingbacks a must-have.

**Prices and Cash Back amounts subject to change

September 14, 2016

The Best Fall Fashion Trends Hot off the Runway

High fashion runways may seem too far removed from everyday style to really inspire your own closet. But this season has a bevy of easy-to-adapt trends to take your fall looks up a notch. Before you start shopping for your fall outfits, take a look at our favorite designer trends and head-turning pieces you can get in all price points with Cash Back at Ebates. From dresses to shoes and accessories, we’ve got the most important fall styles all in one place. Here’s our complete guide to Fall 2016 trends hot off the runway.

Velvet has been a holiday style staple for as long as we can remember. However, wearing velvet from top to bottom is a new statement maker. Push the envelope with your fall outfit ideas and add some of these stylish pieces to your collection.

FRENCH CONNECTION Dilyla Velvet Booties, $165 (Bloomingdale’s)

You can literally pair a velvet bootie with anything, from jeans to a sassy leather skirt.

Lauren Ralph Flared Velvet Pants, $115 (Macy’s)

These pants evoke some serious 70s style with a flared leg that’s perfect with block heels.

Pleated Velvet Wrap Dress, $74 (Topshop)

You won’t have to leave this velvet dress hanging until holiday gatherings. Its simple wrap style is totally office-appropriate.

Puffer jackets are a cold-weather necessity for many. Now, designers have turned them into a fall trends staple for all climates. From full-length fabulous to cute and cropped, check out these must-own puffer coats.

S13 ‘Kylie’ Quilted Jacket with Removable Hood, $200 (Nordstrom)

Metallic outerwear is one of the most popular fall fashion trends in and of itself. So this coat is completely on point.

Rampage Faux-Fur-Trim Puffer Coat, $61.99 (Macy’s)

Fear not the bulky silhouette. This belted piece won’t hide your waist while keeping you warm.

Cropped Puffer Jacket, $ 348.00 (Brooks Brothers)

A cropped style like this is perfect for maxi dresses and high-waisted pants.

Hello 80s! 90s nostaligia may still be riding a high wave but 80s trends are peeking through in the form of one-sleeved and -shouldered cuts. What’s more, these styles are not just for evening. You can find asymmetrical styles for everything from brunch to band practices.

Asymmetrical Top, $19.90 (Forever 21)

Rock it as a dress or a tunic with leather-look leggings to really commit to this throwback style.

David Meister Patterned One-Shoulder Dress, $249.99 (Saks OFF 5TH)

For evening, go bold with black leather and a pattern or texture that will make a lasting impression.

Kourtney Bodycon Dress, $31 (Tobi)

Your weekend casuals have plenty of room for an off-kilter cut. This dress is just as adorable with sneakers as it is with pumps.

Get ready to rock. Guitar strap purses are the new go-to accessory. With lavish embroidery and sparkling embellishments, these bags and straps will turn any look up to 11.

Rebecca Minkoff Embroidered Guitar Bag Strap, $95 (Nordstrom)

Take your favorite bag up a notch in seconds flat with this gorgeous strap to give your OOTD a psychadelic 60s vibe.

STEVE MADDEN Swiss Faux Leather Crossbody, $88 (Nordstrom)

This crossbody bag is perfect for your weekend chambray shirts and dresses. A little bit of fringe thrown in makes this the quintessential retro bag for fall.

SONOMA Guitar Strap Crossbody Bag, $36 (Kohl’s)

This designer look doesn’t have to come with the designer price tag! Add this simple yet stylish purse to your wardrobe without breaking the bank.

Dainty pendants and skinny chokers, your number is up. Big and bold collars are the new centerpiece to your fall styles. Get ready to deck your neck with these no-nonsense pieces.

Tucker Statement Necklace, $58 (Nasty Gal)

Tribal inspired in glimmering gold, this choker is the perfect finishing touch to any deep V in your wardrobe.

Oceane Choker, $68 (BaubleBar)

Add some bling to your office blazers and tops with this jeweled choker.

Faux Rose Choker, $5.90 (Forever 21)

Indulge your inner flower child with this precious rose choker. This necklace pairs fabulously with off-shoulder tops.

Which of these pieces is now at the top of your wishlist? Let us know with a comment below!

**Prices and Cash Back amounts subject to change.

September 7, 2016

6 Basics Every Fall Wardrobe Can’t Go Without

Fall is upon us and some of us are more prepared than ever to start enjoying all that the season brings. But it’s not all pumpkin flavored everything and bonfires. It’s also time to dress for the season and we have just what you need to get you started. Before you deplete your bank account while updating your closet, head to Ebates to earn Cash Back on these fall wardrobe essentials.

Ripped Jeans

Fall trends are pointing to the ripped jeans style of decades past. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill, distressed at the knees jeans. These are ripped in every way imaginable. Sure, you’ll find the standard rips and tears, but you’ll also discover Silver Jeans come in a wonderful variety of washes to add to the distressed appeal. If you thought fringe was just for your dad’s hippie suede jacket, think again, because this tip fall trend is also making its way to your jeans too.

Suit Jackets

The suit jacket is a power symbol and women are embracing it this fall. And no matter the attire at your place of work, the suit jacket is versatile enough to play the part. Dress up jeans or layer with a skirt. Pair with slacks or layer with scarves and chunky statement necklaces. The options are endless. Head to Kohl’s and snag a promo code, then find the one you’ll love to wear to work and pair with other fall pieces.

Floral Maxi Dresses

Parade of Poppies Maxi Dress, $68 (LuLu*s)

Love may be in the air during spring, but fall is the season of romance. Floral prints and flouncy maxi dresses are reigning this season at LuLu*s. Rich, bold jewel tones, lovely reds and of course neutral tones are big as we enter the new season. Don’t be surprised to find long-sleeved dresses with a 70s-era bell sleeve. Find the right dress and you could be wearing a bell-sleeved floral maxi that ticks all of the right boxes.

Bomber Jackets

Shine On You Crazy Bomber, $68 (Nasty Gal)

Once worn by fighter pilots to stay warm, the bomber jacket has come a long way. Now, while you can still find it in thicker varieties and various shades of military tones, you’ll also find a plethora of other options. Head to Nasty Gal for options in satin, floral, appliqued – you name it. Embrace fall trends and go for a statement piece or stick to a neutral tone for fall wardrobe essentials.

Tall Boots

When it comes to fall basics, the tall boot is key in women’s clothing. They keep you cozy and instantly up the style factor for any outfit. It’s really difficult for them to steer your fall wardrobe off course and Macy’s has plenty of options to choose from. It is so easy to want to fill your closet with a pair in every shade. Boots are the perfect quintessential fall fashion accessory.

Blanket Scarves

A hot wardrobe essential you’re sure to get wrapped up in (pardon the pun) is the blanket scarf from Grace and Lace. Sure, that scarf could double as a nice picnic blanket, but right now it is doing the job of keeping you comfy and cozy at work or during an outing. And since the warm colors and plaid styling are on point with classic but trending fall fashion, you’re going to want to grab a few of these. They’re versatile and you can earn Cash Back at Ebates. What more can you ask for?!

September 6, 2016

The Ashley Nell Tipton for JCPenney Fashion Show is Live NOW

When Ashley Nell Tipton won season 14 of Project Runway, it was a landmark moment for plus size fashion. Since then, it’s been a long road from mass exposure to mass production of a collection. But the moment is finally here and you can witness it in living color! Tipton’s collection for JCPenney‘s Boutique+ debuted this morning with an NYC runway show on live stream at JCPenney.com. Catch the video here to see Tipton’s pieces completely styled on gorgeous bodies of different shapes and sizes. After you’ve picked your faves, shop the collection below with Cash Back at Ebates AND a whopping 40% off (for a limited-time only) to get a jump start on your fall wardrobe!

Box Pleat Skirt, $27.99 | Scuba Crop Top, $19.99

Matching sets like these give you more bang for your buck since they can mix and match into your wardrobe easily.

Cropped Long-Sleeve Button Down Shirt, $21.99

Capes are all the rage but cape sleeves are a more everyday approach to this top fall fashion trend.

Quilted Pencil Skirt, $27.99

With zip pockets and quilted detailing, this skirt can easily go from office to outing with the right shoes.

Pleated Faux-Leather Skirt, $35.99

Show your sweet side with this darling baby pink pleated skirt and some T-strap shoes!

Sequin-Sleeve Bomber Jacket, $74.99

Toss a little sparkle into your weekend looks with this sassy bomber jacket, complete with adorable pins!

Short-Sleeve Graphic Boyfriend Tee, $15.99

A simple graphic tee can elevate your look, whether pairing with jeans or a skater skirt.

Pull-On Slashed-Knee Leggings, $27.99

No street style look is complete without distressed denim, making these leggings a fall must-have.

Moto Jacket with Chiffon, $49.99

It’s maybe the most unique jacket you can find for under $50. Combining chiffon and faux leather make for a serious fashion statement.

Sparkle Boyfriend Tee, $19.99

The dazzling tee is the perfect amount of sparkle for day or night.

**Prices and Cash Back amounts are subject to change.

August 31, 2016

How to Mix Summer Clothes Into Your Fall Wardrobe

You’ve finally rounded out your closet to create the perfect summer wardrobe for your signature style. The bad news? You blinked and then *poof* it’s fall. Don’t panic. That collection of sassy summer frocks can still take you well into the chillier months ahead with a few fashion hacks. Here are a few super easy ways to take summer staples into fall fashion while earning Cash Back at Ebates, of course.

Maxi Dress

Plus Jane Maxi Dress, $30 (Boohoo) | Round Neck Knitwear, $31 (ChicNova) | Qupid Slingback Ankle Boots, $64.99 (Kohl’s)

That statement-making maxi dress your lived in this summer can easily add a little color to your fall wardrobe with a chunky cropped sweater and ankle boots. This sweater from ChicNova is the perfect length to make your maxi look like just another high-waisted skirt.

Tee and Jeans

Simplex Apparel Deep V Tee, $18.99 (eBags) | Let Down Hem Mom Jean, $80 (Topshop) | Pinstripe Bomber Jacket, $88 (Banana Republic) | STEVEN by Steve Madden Hilda Platform Sneakers, $69 (Macy’s)

Your go-to casual combo for the summer can totally get warmed up for fall. Swap your Birks for some ultra-cool velvet slip-ons. A stylish bomber jacket, like this one from Banana Republic, will perfectly complete the look without making it too dressed up. After all, this is your weekend jam.

Plunging Jumpsuit

Backless Palazoo Jumpsuit, $27.90 (Choies.com) | Animal Print Long Sleeve Top, $33 (Dorothy Perkins) | Journee Collection Dolup Wedge, $59.99 (Kohl’s)

You may think a jumpsuit that shows some skin may be too little coverage for the fall chill (and too much sex-appeal for the office). But you can easily make turn it into a power suit with a printed long-sleeve top, like this one from Dorothy Perkins, and a popping wedge. Just make sure the top is fitted so it can easily tuck into the jumpsuit. That way, it will look like one seamless (and stunning) professional piece.

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

August 6, 2016

How to Master the Art of Patched Denim

We’re sure you’ve noticed grown women reliving their punk rock high school days in the form of a patched denim jacket or vest and we’re here to say we officially love it. Why? Any fashion trend that is built around customization is key for creating a look that is “in” but still entirely you. Not to mention, denim vests are a great tool for dressing down evening wear for a daring daytime style, like this metallic dress/vest combo:

Want to try your hand at the patched denim trend but feeling intimidated? Let us walk you through the experience of planning, shopping, assembling and styling your very own patched jean jacket or vest while getting some Cash Back at Ebates. We’ll help you find the iron-on denim patches that tout your personality to a T and offer a few handy tips from first-hand experience.

To sleeve or not to sleeve? This may seem like a simple decision but here are a few questions to ask yourself when shopping for what will be the canvas to your wearable masterpiece.

What do you own that can be layered with a vest?
Which piece would you get more mileage out of?
Is your patched denim vest or jacket something you would like to wear regularly or only occasionally?
Would a dark wash or light wash coordinate more with your current wardrobe?

Once you have selected cut and color, now it’s time to dive into the infinite world of patched and pins!

This step can seem overwhelming but trust us, it’s too fun to be stressful. Here are three simple tips to remember when shopping around.

Pick your centerpiece or large patches first. Whether you have one big back piece or a few larger patches, select them first so you can get an idea of how much space your will have left for smaller pieces like enamel pins.
Choose a tone. Will most of your pieces be sweet, sassy or edgy? You can definitely mix it up but it helps to have a general theme in mind.
Pick your top five favorite things in the world. It could be pizza, Parks and Rec or Paris. It doesn’t matter. You can find a patch or pin to represent it.

Our Favorite Patch and Pin Stores on Etsy!

Strawberry Moth
That’s Sew Bethany
Wildflower + Co.
Sarah Duyer
For the Love of Patch
Buried Diamond
Lizmiera
Heartificial
Anchor and Stitch

You’ve got the outwear and the hardware. Now it’s time to patch. We recommend throwing a little party with a friend or two to make a couple of hours with the ironing board a little less tedious. We say hours because:

Not all patches are created equal. Some take longer to iron. Make sure to use the highest temp with full steam unless instructions for each patch note otherwise.
Ironing blind is hard. It is recommended for most patches that you not iron the front of the patch. That means you have to lay it upside down them place the jacket on top of it. If you have a glass table you can climb under, that really helps to see that the placement is correct before ironing.
Touch ups may be required. You can iron to the best of your ability and a patch could stubbornly refuse to fuse. Avoid the urge to rip your hair out by purchasing some Liquid Stitch from Joann beforehand. It really is a lifesaver when patched go rogue.

Your labor of love is officially done and now it’s time to strut. Let those colorful patches catch eyes from across the sidewalk by wearing neutrals underneath. And never, NEVER wear them with blue denim bottoms, regardless of wash. You remember that infamous Brittany and Justin look, right?

We get it. You’re a busy girl and you would much rather dish out a little extra money than get your hands dirty. Luckily, a lot of patched denim pieces are pretty reasonable and all of these come with Cash Back! It may not be your own hand-made baby but you can still give it a good home.