Carlos Falchi's Exclusive Handbag Line for Target Launches on Sunday!

If you are a lover of exotic skin purses, then this will be music to your ears! Carlos Falchi, known for his FAB snakeskin bags, will be joining the ranks of designers doing affordably-priced, exclusive lines for Target. (He is actually the eighth handbag designer to do a limited-edition collection for the mega chain.) The collection will consist of 13 pieces made of faux exotic skins in fun colors -- like plum and teal -- with contrasting shades of black, brown, and grey. Some pieces will utilize patchwork or collage techniques.

Carlos Falchi handbags for Target will be available from November 1 to December 27. Prices will range from $19.99 to $49.99. At these prices, you can make many people happy on your holiday gift list!

To take a sneak peak at the collection click here.

How I Became A Red-Soled Goddess

Everyone who knows me personally knows how much I love birthdays . . . particularly my own. After all, your birthday is truly the only day of the year that is entirely yours to do with it whatever you want. Last week I had the pleasure of celebrating yet another birthday -- for the entire week I might add -- and each day turned into one feel good moment after another. But despite how exciting the week had already been, I never in a million years would have anticipated that on last Thursday I would be sitting side by side with the most notable women's shoe designer in the entire world, Monsieur Christian Louboutin.

It was indeed a surreal experience . . . one I will never, ever forget. My husband and I were in NYC (part deux of my celebratory week; part one was spent with my girlfriends at Canyon Ranch Miami Beach), and we headed to Bergdorf Goodman because I was in search of a pair of shoes for an upcoming black tie event. As we stepped off of the escalator into the women's shoe salon, I was taken aback by the number of people buzzing around the department at 2:30 on a weekday. I mean I knew why I was there, but was it feasible that all of these women just happened to be looking for shoes as well? I immediately said to my husband "I wonder what the heck is going on here?" and then I began looking around the floor for answers. As I focused on what was going on about three feet in front of me, I noticed there were a bunch of women patiently standing in line, obviously waiting to meet someone important. Because it was literally standing room only, I couldn't immediately see who was seated at the table. But as I looked to the right of the area where the table was, I saw a woman holding a pair of those infamous red-soled shoes. I audibly gasped, my heart started palpitating, and although I was almost rendered speechless, I managed to say to my husband, "Oh my god . . . Christian Louboutin is here signing his shoes!"

Whatever my original purpose was for coming into the store, I didn't care! I told my husband to find a seat because I was now in search of my very own pair of Louboutins (my first believe it or not) so I could be amongst the privileged standing in that line. For a while it seemed as though I was walking around in circles, moving from one fab shoe to another, desperately wishing that my buddy Sean was there to just tell me which shoe to buy. (Yes, sometimes stylists need help too!) I immediately called Sean on the phone, resisted my urge to scream, and very quietly but emphatically said to him, "I'm in Bergdorfs, Christian Louboutin is here signing his shoes, and boy do I wish you were here to pick these shoes out for me!" He was equally as excited, and told me if I needed his help making a decision, to send him a picture message. (That's what great friends and stylists do!) After I hung up the phone, I finally calmed myself down. I chose a couple of pairs of shoes to try on, and went searching for a sales associate. I tried on the first pair, walked over to my husband to show him, and the decision was made.

My sales guy told me to go stand in line while he processed the transaction. There went the heart palpitations again. A few minutes later my salesman came back with my shoes and my receipt, and handed me the right shoe out of the box so it would be ready for signing. As I moved a little further up in the line, a young lady asked me for the spelling of my first name, and then handed me a piece of paper to give Mr. Louboutin when it was my turn.

I eventually signaled for my husband to come and get my camera. I wanted every single moment of this once in a lifetime experience documented. As I came to be the next person in line, I began chatting with a gentleman who was obviously the head of the women's designer shoe department. He asked me if I knew that Christian was going to be in the store that day, and I explained to him that my hubby and I were in NYC celebrating my birthday and just happened to come in. He became excited for me and said "It was meant to be!"

When I first sat across from Mr. Louboutin and handed him my shoe, I literally felt my heart thumping in my throat. But he was so engaging and so charming, I relaxed in about two seconds. We exchanged hellos, and he immediately admired the shoe I handed to him. (Nothing better than having the shoe designer himself give you that stamp of approval that you chose well!) He then proceeded to tell me how beautiful he thought the name Adrienne was, and he asked me did I like my name as a child. I immediately found myself in conversation with him about how he has a very good friend named Adrienne who didn't like her name as a child either because no one could spell or pronounce it properly -- the story of my life. I thought it quite interesting that he went on to say that the name Adrienne is very much a "woman's" name (as opposed to a girl's name), because after all this man certainly knows women!

After he autographed my shoe, I asked if I could temporarily occupy the empty seat next to him so my hubby could take a picture. He replied "of course," and I was again taken aback by just how down to earth he was. Once the photo-op ended, he bid me farewell, and I truly felt as if I had just stepped out of a dream.

Since my husband and I returned from NYC, I have taken the right shoe out of the box several times just to admire it. I am looking forward to wearing them, even though deep down inside I feel like they should be placed in a glass case and displayed on a pedestal "museum style." I know there are many women around the world who share the love of these red soles, and have them in their closet as their most prized possessions. But I feel so privileged to be among the few women who will be able to say I have met the man, and have the autographed sole to show it!

(To see additional photos posted on my FB fan page click here.)

Be Fashion Fierce For Fall 2009

In just 6 days fashion's A-list designers will take over NYC's Bryant Park to present their Spring 2010 collections, and I couldn't be more excited! Twice a year I look forward to all of the hustle and bustle that goes with having "invitation only" access to the tents, and being able to see first-hand what fashionistas will be vying for next season.

I'm sure many of you are definitely not on the "fashion timeline" (i.e. you don't know nor do you care about what "it" items will make the cut 6 months from now). After all, the summer weather took so long to fully kick in, many of us are still trying to wear some of the new items we bought for this spring! BUT, if you do find yourself scurrying around to figure out what your wardrobe can't be without this fall, look no further! Below you will find the top 10 fashion trends for Fall 2009.

1. Bold Animal Prints

2. Sexy Booties

3. Biker Chic

4. All Season Sandals

5. Boyfriend Blazer

6. Pretty Plaid

7. Luscious Leather Leggings

8. Studs & Grommets

9. Statement Accessories

10. Fierce Fur

Why Would You Wear Your Boyfriend's Jeans?

Every time we turn around there's a new style of jeans taking center stage. Several years back the emergence of the low-rise phenomenon had mother's of teenage daughters -- not to mention dads -- shaking their heads in horror. Shortly thereafter, the "yummy mommy" (i.e one who would NEVER be caught in "mom jeans") jumped on the bandwagon after realizing not only how comfortable they were but also how they transformed your body. (They conveniently fell below that little "pouch" many of us can't get rid of and gave you a streamlined look.)

Designers quickly realized conservative moms were not trying to hear "how low can you go," so the mid-rise jean was ultimately unveiled. And just when everyone thought they had comfortably settled into the latest and greatest jean fad, we were thrust back into the 80's with the re-emergence of the skinny jean.

This summer style makers turned to loose, comfy fitting clothes, including harem pants "ala MC Hammer." And yes, the jean makers followed suit - boyfriend jeans were born. If you need a visual, imagine -- you put on a pair of your man's jeans that are loose-fitting, look "lived-in," the knees are worn, and you can't keep them up without a belt!

When I first took a look at these jeans, I thought, "no way . . . not me." And then one day I saw a pair of ripped up Joes Jeans (my favorite brand) online, and I said "what the heck, let me give them a try." Much to my husband's chagrin, I fell in love. It wasn't because they made my body look good. (These are definitely not the jeans to enhance your shape.) It was that they are just so darn comfortable! They are super soft and feel like you're relaxing in a pair of your favorite sweats.

I, of course, had to figure out a way to style them so I could still look like a diva and not some tomboy walking down the street. The key is to roll them up a few times (I prefer thinner rolls than pictured above), and then funk them out with a pair of high-heeled gladiators (I just happen to have the ones pictured above), and a cute loose top. You can even throw on a chic jacket for added pizazz.

I know - I know: some of you just can't get with that. No worries. You're going to see them a lot this fall so here's my style tip: buy them one to two sizes smaller, and they will fit just like your regular jeans! And make sure you click here to check out a great online site for jeans: shopbop.com.

MJ "Put On Your Dancin' Shoes" Tee

Yesterday I purchased what I am sure will be the first of many Michael Jackson t-shirts from a store we all know and love, Urban Outfitters. Known for their graphic tees, funky clothing, and other cool paraphernalia, Urban Outfitters was the first place I decided to check for official MJ clothing. (Some of you may recall all of the cool Obama tees they carried pre and post the election.) Although they have yet to receive their women's tees (they should be arriving shortly), I had one of the sales associates on the floor scour to find me what I was told was the last t-shirt they had in stock. (I was lucky - it was in my size!) I thought the shirt was very cool because it's simply a graphic of his feet doing his classic fancy footwork.

Today I decided to peruse their website to see if it was available online, and it is. To purchase, click here. We love you Michael!!!!!

A Sweet Farewell to a Musical Icon . . . a Fashion Trendsetter

I would be remiss if I didn't devote my blog this week to the one I consider to be the greatest musical legend of all time - Mr. Michael Jackson. Like many of you, I was simply devastated upon hearing the news yesterday that the "King of Pop" is no longer with us.

I will always remember exactly where I was and what I was doing when I heard the news. And although last night I had the pleasure of sitting front row at a Kenny G concert, my mind was elsewhere, and I couldn't stop looking at my Blackberry for updates. Michael was not only a gifted musician (he was indeed a musical genius), he was a fashion trendsetter. Who else could get away with wearing a sequined glove and white socks with black pants 2 inches too short? I am a bit embarrassed to say that when the Thriller album came out when I was in high school, I had the "Beat It" jacket (in white not red), and I used to pull that front piece of my hair down just like Michael. He was my hero . . . He was my musical idol . . . He was and will ever be my Michael, and I pray that he is finally at peace.

Fabulous . . . Fashionable . . . Fifty

On last Saturday I had the pleasure of helping my client celebrate her milestone birthday "fashion" style. I came up with the theme "Fabulous, Fashionable, Fifty," and she carried this theme through to perfection! From the invitations, to the gift bags, to the outstanding raffle prizes (guests received raffle tickets for each item they brought to be donated to Dress for Success), to the requirement that everyone come dressed "Summer Chic,"this party was nothing short of being "fashion fierce."

I had the honor of doing my "Recessionista Chic" presentation (concepts taught via a scavenger hunt and a word matching game), and was pleased with the overwhelming response I received when I opened the floor for questions. I thought some of my answers might be helpful to others so I've taken the liberty to post them here.

What do you think about stockings?
I never wear them. If you must wear them, never EVER where them with open toe shoes. (Peep toes are OK - again, if you absolutely must.)

Can plus size women wear prints?
Yes, but stay away from horizontal stripes and large prints that overpower you and the garment.

What type of maxi dresses are appropriate for plus-size women?
I love maxi dresses, and I think they are appropriate for just about any body type. I would suggest that if you are plus-size, stay away from dresses that have layered ruffles the entire length of the garment. Also, wear heels to avoid looking frumpy. (That goes for all of you shorties like me as well.)

How can young people use what's currently in their wardrobes to double as business attire?
This can be challenging, but not impossible, particularly if some of their wardrobe falls into the "business casual" category. If they currently have dress pants, pairing them with a jacket or cardigan and top is a good start. And they can wear their halter tops or tanks/camis underneath their jackets or cardigans as long as 1) they keep the jackets or cardigans on, and 2) the necklines are not too low and plungy.

How should you organize your closet?
By article of clothing and color. (E.g. all pants should be grouped together and arranged from lightest (white, cream, camel) to darkest (navy, black).) And get rid of ALL wire hangers! I prefer wooden, but these can be pricey so heavy duty plastic ones are okay as well. (Actually, almost anything is better than wire!)

When building a professional wardrobe, how many pieces of each item should you start with?
I suggest starting with pant suits so that you have the most options for mixing and matching. Start with 4 -- 1 in each of your basic colors (tan, brown, navy, black). If the suit comes with the option of buying the skirt as well, buy it! Purchase 3-4 tops to go with each suit, and if you can, select tops that can be worn with more than one suit. Add cardigans (2-3) in tan, red, or grey. Now you can mix and match jackets or cardigans with your pants or skirts. Your wardrobe options have instantly become endless.

What is the best way to maximize my wardrobe?
Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize. This season it's all about bold chunky jewelry, and it can turn a simple white tee from boring to glamorous. You should also resist the urge to wear the same combinations over and over again. Choose a different top the next time you wear your favorite black pants. Also remember, many things in your closet can be worn with jeans even if you didn't buy them to do so.

How to be an "After 5" Diva on a "9 to 5" Dime

You're a mover and a shaker and have found yourself on every invite list for the hottest cocktail parties, black tie events, and local fundraisers. To complicate matters, your social network has expanded to include other event A- listers who move in your same circle. How do you possibly attend all of these formal events and continue to look fabulous without breaking the bank? Following these simple steps will ensure that you have some money left in your little evening clutch and still look "fashion fierce."

1. Never EVER wait to the last minute to get your outfit together. Do your shopping early and often. Hit the clearance racks of the evening wear departments in major department stores and boutiques at the end of the season and start building an after 5 wardrobe. If you wait until the last minute you are likely to spend top dollar for something you may not be 100% satisfied with. My motto: a woman should always be prepared to accept a last minute invitation.

2. If you are on a limited budget, choose cocktail and evening dresses that are classic pieces and in classic colors. First build your wardrobe with dark colors: black, navy, and wine. Leave anything really dramatic or bright (e.g. red or hot pink) in the store. Why? Because you want to be able to wear these dresses to multiple events without it being obviously noticeable. If you wear a dramatic red dress to more than one event and you move in the same circle of people, it WILL look like you are wearing the same red dress.

3. Make sure you buy multiple pieces of jewelry to match each dress you own. For example, for a simple black dress, purchase chunky gold and silver jewelry. If you have extra money, throw in some pearls (lots of pearls at varying lengths - faux is ok) and clear or colored crystals. And make sure each set of jewelry is stylistically different. If you buy a gold set with a chunky necklace and simple post earrings, buy the silver set with long chandelier earrings and a cuff bracelet. Keep in mind you do want your jewelry to be statement pieces so they should be dramatic. This way, when you have to wear the same dress to multiple events, the focus will be on your jewelry and not on your dress. Diversity is key for camouflaging that you may be recycling dresses.

4. Purchase multiple wraps, scarves or other pieces that can go over your dresses in different colors and textures. If you love pins, work them Michelle Obama style. Add one to the dress alone or be creative and drape your wrap around the dress and use the pin as an accent piece. Pins can add pizzazz to a simple dress or wrap and make it look completely different. (Just don't overdo it!)

Have a special event to attend and need additional advice? Don't hesitate to contact me at adrienne@psiloveyoullc.com.

Gilt Groupe: Designer Duds without the Guilt

Love Valentino dresses, Judith Ripka miniaudieres, and Christian Louboutin pumps but can't afford to pay full price? Come on over to Gilt Groupe, a members only site with exclusive online sample sales of top designer merchandise. Headed by Susan Lyne, a former top executive at Martha Stewart Omnimedia and ABC Entertainment, and founded by Alexis Maybank (founding member of eBay) and Alexandra Wilson (had tenures at Bulgari and Louis Vuitton), the company has amassed one million members within 18 months of launching.

Here's the scoop. The site offers access to some of the hottest designer merchandise for women, men, and children at prices up to 70% off of retail. There is at least one sale per weekday (often more), and every Monday an email blast is sent to all members outlining the week's featured designers as well as the date and time that each sale will take place. Email blasts are then sent daily announcing the start of the sale (12 PM EST), and the designers included. Each sale lasts 36 hours and features hand selected styles from a single designer. Since sales take place exclusively on gilt.com (no phone in orders allowed) and are available on a first-come, first-served basis, you should log on early for the best selection. Keep in mind that a full range of sizes may not be available, and they may not have multiple quantities in your size. The name of the game here is definitely to log on early and often! I have personally developed a little addiction to the site and have amassed some great deals.

Interested in becoming a member? Email me at adrienne@psiloveyoullc.com and I will send you an invitation link.

Michelle Obama Fashion Special Hits Stands Today

Michelle Obama has officially been named the "First Lady of Style." To celebrate her first three months in the White House, fashion insiders have released a luxe collector's issue - Michelle Obama: 100 Days of Style. The issue contains 116 pages of pictures, explores Ms. Obama's looks, and goes behind the scenes with her favorite designers.

Not since Jackie O has any first lady caught the eye of the fashion industry, and women everywhere seem to be obsessed with duplicating her style and trying to make it their own. From the inaugural ball to her high profile trip to Europe, the fashion saavy are only concerned with one thing: "What is Ms. O wearing!" Michelle Obama: 100 Days of Style is available now at newsstands, major bookstores nationwide, and online at fashionweekdaily.com.

Forever 21's New Plus Size Line

Attention all of you fuller-figured fashionistas! You spoke and Forever 21 apparently listened. The store's new plus size line ("Faith 21") will launch tomorrow. Sizes will include junior plus sizes as well as those from XL to 2XL, and the line will feature knit and woven tops, dresses, skirts, leggings and jeans. Faith 21 will continue Forever 21's trendy spin on everything from jersey basics to runway knockoffs. And the best part - everything is priced at under $35!!!!!

Faith 21 will be available in L.A. on May 1 at the Lakewood Center Mall, Montebello Town Center, Los Cerritos Mall, Anaheim Plaza and online at http://www.forever21.com/. Happy Shopping.

Are We Afraid to Embrace Our Femininity?

Each year as the warmer weather begins to move in, I get excited about breaking out in my spring wardrobe - flirty dresses, cute girly tops with jeans and strappy sandals, and bold accessories. However, I realize that not every woman embraces their warm weather gear.

Once spring and summer arrive, many of us are challenged by the fact that we can no longer hide behind our big coats, bulky sweaters, hats, and scarves. This time of the year there's more skin showing and less alternatives to camouflage what we perceive as our "flaws." Some of us literally hate spring fashions primarily for this reason. For those of you who find yourself in this category, I want to ask you a question - is it really about the clothes or are you simply afraid to embrace your femininity?

Women often find it challenging to find the balance between being "strong" and "accomplished" and being feminine. There's a "softness" associated with femininity that experiences in the work place and in our homes have taught us is negative. However, the bottom line is that our "softness" is what makes us women. (And quite frankly it's what our significant others see that attracts them to us.)

There is absolutely nothing wrong with putting on clothes that make you look and feel feminine. Little girls are not challenged by this at all. My youngest godchild is four years old, and her mother still has to fight with her to wear something other than a dress. If you ask her why she likes to wear dresses she will tell you: "Because I'm a girl, and they make me look pretty."

For those of you who are "girly" challenged, I strongly suggest that you make a commitment this summer to change that. Make an appointment to get those nails and toes done, try a new hair style, and put on something that makes you feel like the woman you were meant to be. Who knows - this may just be the "pick me up" you need to attract that certain someone of the opposite sex and have that "spring fling."

Nordstrom Cherry Hill: A "Grand" Opening Gala

Two weeks ago I had the pleasure of attending the Nordstrom Cherry Hill Grand Opening Gala. It was a night of amazing proportions – non-stop hors d’oeuvres and desserts, complimentary open bar, an electrifying band, live model mannequins, and four hours (6 – 10 pm) to shop until you drop before the official store opening two days later. My girlfriend and I arrived around 7:30 that evening, and as we pulled up to the curb to leave our car with the valet, we knew we were in store for something pretty spectacular. My heart skipped a beat as we walked through the opened doors while being greeted by a neverending host of store personnel, some ready to extend you your first glass of champagne for the evening) One thing that was evident two minutes after getting there: the Nordstrom brothers know how to throw a party!

As we paused to get a bite to eat and to assess our surroundings, my initial reaction was, “I have never seen so many sales associates per capita in my entire life.” It was clear that this event was not only designed to raise money for a few worthy causes (proceeds from the ticket cost of $100 per person benefited The Links, Incorporated, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Symphony C), but to give all of the guests as much of an opportunity as possible to snatch up the best of the spring and summer collections before the doors were opened to the general public. And that is exactly what my girlfriend and I did! Because I’m the shopper, my girlfriend initially deferred to me: “What are you looking for?" ; "What department do you want to hit first?” But soon enough she was bitten by the shopping bug herself and started wandering off without me. (I dare say I have never seen her have that much fun shopping in my entire life, and I’ve known her for over 20 years!)

I took a quick break from my shopping for a moment to introduce myself to fashion designer, Tracy Reese. (She was absolutely charming and gracious as I expressed my love for her line and how much I have enjoyed attending her runway shows during New York Fashion Week.) And much to my surprise, the sales associate who was assisting me that evening happened not to be just a sales associate but one of the store’s personal stylists. (Ladies, ask for Dyan Demidio. She’s amazing and full of energy!) By the time 10:00 rolled around, we were still shopping! The band stopped playing, and we were . . . still shopping!!! I’m slightly ashamed to say that we literally closed the store that night.

(Band, "The Night Shift" was nothing short of FABULOUS!)

(Designer Tracy Reese pictured center with Nordstrom personal stylist, Dyan Demidio (left))

(DJ & Live Mannequins on the 2nd Floor)

Needless to say, I am ecstatic that there is now another Nordstrom in our midst. The King of Prussia location is certainly more convenient for me, but I will be making regular trips to Cherry Hill. Although the store is not as large as the one in King of Prussia (Cherry Hill measures in at 138,000 square feet), it is considered one of Nordstrom’s designer stores (basically more glitz and glam, of which there are about 20 in the country). At Cherry Hill you will notice a much expanded designer handbag department set up boutique style, the selection of designers featured (this store sells David Yurman in their fine jewelry department), and a fabulous new concept for the fitting room in the BP. (junior) department – a mini living room awaits you as you enter, complete with funky furniture and "foo-foo" pillows. All in all, three words sum up my overall assessment of this new addition to the Cherry Hill Mall: Job Well Done!

(BP. Fitting Room - Leather Sofa & Flokati Pillows)

(BP. Fitting Room - Love that flat screen!)

(BP. Fitting Room - amazing high back chair)

Bluefly: It's not Just Last Season's Ultimate Hook-up for the Fashion Obsessed

Attention all you fashionistas who love and swear by bluefly.com! I made an alarming discovery yesterday that I had to share with you. Just Monday I purchased a pair of "slammin" nude patent leather carved wooden wedge platform sandals by Miu Miu. My "main man" Sean General, the buyer for the Women's Couture department at Boyds Philadelphia, had put them aside for me (although we were just meeting for lunch - thanks for always spending my money, Sean) knowing that they would be my best friend for casual wear this summer. I bought them instantly and couldn't wait to get them home to place them amongst all of their other friends in my closet.

Well yesterday I just happened to be on bluefly looking at some of the latest items they've received from some of my favorite designers, including Miu Miu. Much to my surprise my sandals popped up. And for about $130 less than what I paid for them! Of course I quickly looked to see if they had them in my size, which they didn't. (I mean I love Sean and everything, but why give more of my money away than I have to!)

What was shocking to me was that this shoe is from Miu Miu's Spring 2009 collection, as opposed to being an item from last season. I do admit that it's been a while since I've done any competitive pricing on bluefly to see if they do indeed carry current season items at a discount. However, this amazing discovery has made me a true believer in their website again. So, for all you fashionistas who have not shopped on the "fly" before, check them out here. http://bluefly.com/

Oops! There Must be a Typo in My Fashion Magazine: I Can't Find this Item ANYWHERE!

Today I had the honor of doing a segment on the Fox 29 Philadelphia morning show, "Good Day Philadelphia." Michelle Buckman, Fox 29 News Consumer Reporter, asked me to answer a question many fashionistas have asked, particularly at the beginning of a new season: Why can't I find that fabulous piece I saw in the latest issue of my favorite fashion magazine online or in my local store?

My answers were pretty simple. One major reason is because many of the fashion editors are based in New York City and when they do their fashion layouts, they tend to select pieces from stores and boutiques in Manhattan. That's why magazines like Lucky are great because they occasionally have a regional section. Another reason you can chase and chase that cute pair of sandals or gorgeous top and never hit the jackpot is because those pieces you see were actually samples done for runway shows or collection previews. And guess what - they were never placed into production!

So what's a woman to do? I suggest taking the concept shown in the magazine, which basically shows the season's fashion trends. Then head to your laptop or to your local mall and shop for pieces that represent that trend. For example, one of the outfits that Michele Buckman featured was found in the March issue of InStyle magazine. The outfit centered around an adorable embellished short sleeve cardigan from J. Crew. Michelle had no luck finding this sweater online or in any of Jcrew's stores. But I was able to take the basic concept, "short sleeve cardigan," and recreate that entire outfit by finding an animal print short sleeve cardigan, shell, faux python clutch, embellished flat sandals, and dangling earrings. And the best part - the outfit in the magazine cost over $1200; mine was only $250! (Talk about creating the look for less!)

But, I do know that there are those "desperate" situations where you feel as though you cannot go on without having that one "it" item of the season. Yours truly has been there, trust me. In those cases, I suggest you get on the phone, call the store listed, describe the item (along with the name of the magazine and page number), and if they have it in stock, ask them to send it to you. Some stores like bebe make it easier for you to scout all of their stores. They have a customer service number that you can call, and they will do a nationwide search for you and give you the phone number of the store that has it in stock.

Whether you decide to recreate the look or take on a new part-time job to find the actual piece shown in your favorite magazine, just have fun with the new season's trends. And don't forget to watch those dollars - looking chic doesn't mean your purse has to look empty!

Recessionista Chic: How to Minimize the Cost of Maximizing Your Wardrobe

Unless you have somehow managed to sleep through the past couple of years, this will not come as a surprise: we are indeed in a recession. Amidst talks of cutbacks, layoffs, expense reductions, budget cuts, and of course, store closings, fashion conscious women are scurrying to discover how they can continue to look good without breaking the bank. The fashion industry has even coined a term to describe these women: "recessionistas."

If you have been wondering how you can continue to look like you have just stepped out of the pages of Vogue without dipping into your depleting savings accounts, the following tips will help you cost-consciously spring into the upcoming season.


1. Shop Your Closet
Each of us has that one article of clothing that has been tucked away just waiting for the perfect piece to accompany it. Truth is, that perfect piece is likely already in your closet, along with many other items you have ignored. Before you make another move to the next sale, go straight to your closet and make some new winning combinations. Bought that lace cami because it was on the sale rack and you knew it might one day come in handy? Throw it on under a cute cropped jacket and pull on your favorite jeans. If you're not the most fashion savvy individual, here is where hiring a wardrobe stylist can really come in handy. A good stylist can put outfits together you have never even thought of, and leave you with photos so there's no guessing involved the next time you get dressed. If you're really on a budget, invite one of your fashionable friends to come over and lend you a hand.

2. Swap with Friends
Women these days are finding new and creative ways to spruce up their wardrobe and make new friends to boot. Why not host a party at your home and instead of it being a potluck dinner, make it a potluck shopping experience. Tell everyone to bring one article of clothing or an accessory in excellent condition that they no longer use, pile them up for selection, and may the best woman win! If there's anything left over that doesn't seem to work in anyone's closet, don't take it back home. Donate it to "Dress for Success," a wondeful organization dedicated to empowering women and giving them a second chance.

3. Accessorize to the Max
If you want to buy something new this season, start with accessories. A new scarf, purse, or piece of jewelry can add a pop of color and make that cute summer dress and strappy sandals look like an entirely new ensemble. And keep in mind: accessories don't have to break the bank. Stores like Forever 21 (no, you don't have to be 21 to shop there) have the best accessories and they're cheap! (I'm talking $3 - $5 for earrings and enameled bangles, and $8 - $10 for scarves.)

4. Switch it Up a Bit
So we all have that pair of slacks that we bought to where with that top, those shoes, and that purse, right? Stop right there. Do not pass go and do not collect $200 bucks unless you pick a different shirt out of your closet the next time around. Those black slacks with the white pinstripe can be worn with more colors than just white. Why not try pink, light blue, or grey? And if you're really feeling adventurous - knock their socks off with lime green. Watch how many compliments you get and how quickly you begin to believe that's a new pair of slacks!

5. Embrace the Blue Light Special
I may be showing my age a bit here, but do you remember the days of the K-Mart blue light special? (For those of you young-uns, yes, there was actually a swirling blue light highlighting the featured buy of the day.) Fast forward to the new age of mass market retailers like Target and Kohls. You can find some serious bargains here (even some "a la" designer labels like Vera Wang and Isaac Mizrahi). A few months ago I spotted an amazing gold and cream tweed boucle wool coat with 3/4 lengths sleeves on a clearance rack at Target for $15! Sure, it's not going to be the quality of Cinzia Rocca piece, but who the heck cares for $15??????? Stores like TJ Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls are also known for stocking designer duds at discount prices. So when it comes to minimizing the impact on your pocket, never, I mean never, underestimate the power of that blue light!