Sex and the City 2: Get the Look for Less!

Unfortunately, we’re not all lucky enough to have the budget that the stylists for Sex and the City 2 are privileged to have at their disposal.  Whether or not you’re a fan of the hit series or the movies, it’s still easy to get hooked on the outfits worn by these stylish New York divas. Officially in theaters as of yesterday, SATC2 will move every fashionista to check out what the girls are wearing this time around, and bring a little piece of the movie to her own wardrobe. Here are four signature looks from both movies worn by Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda, and where you can get their looks for less!

Carrie in a chic vintage white Halston dress; XOXO V-neck Drape Jersey Dress: $59!!

Miranda: Maggy London Black and White dress IS affordable at only $148! Just throw on a gold belt and you’re good to go!

Samantha: wearing Wendy Brandes Gold Snake Earring - $7,250!

Find similar earrings like this at polyvore.com for $300.

Finally, if you want Charlotte's conservative look in a stunning turquoise-green dress like this, then check out this dress on the right from Max and Cleo for only $95!

The Right Swimsuit for Your Body Type

After wandering through the bathing suit section at Target a few days ago, I started to worry whether or not I had chosen the right swimsuit style to best flatter my body type. Being a pear shape, I’m always very conscious of my legs and hips, and generally have to wear a size larger on the bottom than on top. I decided to go with a bandeau ruched top, to give the illusion of a fuller bust, and a high -- but narrow cut -- bottom, to give the illusion of longer legs. After doing some research on finding the best swimsuit for your body, I discovered these perfect little videos, where each video is designed for each body type as it relates to swimwear. The pear, apple, hourglass, and inverted triangle shapes are all covered. I’ve watched all of these videos, and whoever made them seems to be right on with their style tips! So before you hit the beach this summer, take a few seconds to watch these videos (they take less than 60 seconds), and see if you are suiting up correctly this season. Also keep in mind that color and pattern play a role in where other’s focus on your body, so make sure you listen to the color advice given as well. After watching these videos, I am confident in my swimsuit choice and am ready to hit the sand! For great separates suiting options for your body type, check out www.victoriassecret.com where you can mix and match bottoms and tops in all sizes and colors!

Video - Swimsuits for Your Body Shape:  Apple 
Video - Swimsuits for Your Body Shape:  Hourglass

Video - Swimsuits for Your Body Shape:  Pear

Video - Swimsuits for Your Body Shape:  Inverted Triangle

Alex and Ani: Eco-Friendly Jewelry

As the school year comes to a close, graduating seniors at PhilaU who were lucky enough to land jobs will begin the rest of their lives in the workforce.  It sounds dreadful doesn’t it? Well, perhaps not so much for my very close friends who have landed amazing jobs, one of which is with a jewelry company I had never known.  Now that I've seen her rock her personal collection of the company's bangles and necklaces every day, I've become a fan of Alex and Ani.  After hearing about the company and seeing some of the products, I thought I’d introduce it to all of you!  I’m still trying to pick out what I need to have from their jewelry collection; it’s challenging because it's all beautiful!  Alex and Ani is an eco-friendly jewelry company started by designer Carolyn Rafaelian. Products are created using recycled materials made entirely in the United States. They carry everything from bracelets, necklaces and earrings to rings, hair pieces and bridal pieces. If you’re looking for everyday jewelry that’s eco-friendly, check out their website at  www.alexandani.com

Finding the Perfect Fitting Jeans

We all know that most women struggle when shopping for their denim jeans. It seems like there are an infinite amount of styles and brands out there for a variety of prices. So how do you know which ones are right for you? While I can’t see you and tell YOU specifically, there are some great guidelines that all women should follow. Here are a few things to take into consideration when shopping for jeans: fit type, rise, leg fit and wash type.

• Fit Type: Most jeans come sized relaxed, slim, regular, etc. Slim and extra slim are best for those who are tall and thin.

• Rise: Rise is something that really gets to me when shopping for jeans. No one wants a high rise unless you’re specifically looking for a pair of high waisted jeans. TRY ON your jeans to assess the rise before you buy them. Try sitting, crossing your legs and bending over to make sure that you’re comfortable.

• Leg Fit: This is the part that usually gets me the most frustrated when shopping for jeans. These days a lot of women are looking for the skinny leg jean, but some women have larger calves than others. I’ve found what works best for me with a skinny jean is that it MUST have spandex or lycra in it to give it some stretch, otherwise it will not fit over my calves. Also, look at other cuts like boot cut, straight, skinny, wide, flare, etc. Don't forget to keep in mind the shape of your hips and shoulders when choosing a leg fit in order to give your entire body a uniform silhouette.

• Wash Type: Darker washes tend to be more flattering and thinning, and are also easier to dress up if you’re wearing jeans out at night. Whisker washes draw attention to the hips and thighs. Lighter washes can hide a multitude of sins BUT can also make some look heavier, so be careful when trying these on and know what look you’re going for. Also, color washes can tend to add stiffness to the jeans because of the larger amount of dye in them.

Lastly, when you’re shopping for your jeans, don’t be afraid to pull a sales associate aside to assist you. Get opinions in the dressing room so that you don’t walk out wearing a mistake. Also, research your jean companies. Most websites have great sizing tools for denim for all body shapes and sizes; take advantage of that! And finally, it’s not always true that spending more money gets you a better fitting jean. Every body type is different, and brands that you’d never imagine trying just might be the ones to surprise you!

Zac Posen For Target

Designer Zac Posen’s budget line for Target recently hit stores. Posen's line was one of the most highly anticipated launches for Targets GO lines, sold internationally. Target quotes on their website that “The acclaimed Zac Posen collection is composed of day wear, suiting and evening wear, designed for sophisticated, feminine, strong women of a diverse age range.” There’s a great mix of fun prints and silohuettes for every shape ranging from $16.99-$200. If you haven’t had the chance to take a peak at your local Target store, you can view the full collection online at www.target.com. Of course, I’ve fallen head over heels for the snap tape dress that is already out of stock online, so if you see something you love and must have, buy it now before it’s gone! The Target online shop also provides you with looks to put the pieces you purchase together and accessorize them. Check it out and let us know what you think!

Who's Your Favorite Up-and-Coming Designer?

A few months ago working backstage at Fashion Week in New York, a new designer caught my eye that I think you all will love.  Abigail Lorick designer of Lorick, chose an elegant presentation for her line rather than a runway show.  Her pieces were like artwork -- very vintage, romantic, and wearable . . . the kind of clothes that make women feel like their "Sunday’s best" again.  Since seeing her presentation, I’ve been mildly obsessed with her designs.  Lorick attended FIT for design and has recently become successful launching her own line in 2007.  Her clothes have been featured in countless high-fashion magazines and showcased on the hit show "Gossip Girl."  She now sells her clothes internationally, but also close to home at Barneys New York and even in Philadelphia at Pileggi.  Check out some of my favorite looks from her Spring 2010 line.  If you’re interested in finding out more about her and her collections, check out www.loricknewyork.com.  Let me know what you think or let us know your favorite designer on the rise!

Spotlight On Spring/Summer Accessories

There’s a lot going on in the world of accessories for Spring/Summer 2010! I'm excited to share three of my favorites with you, which represent some of the hottest items on the market right now. Accessories are so vital to your wardrobe, and they can literally make or break an outfit. While you're shopping this season, make sure you keep an eye out for each of the items below.

First, turquoise is back and better than ever. Turquoise pieces are great investments to add to your accessories collection because they regain their status every few years when turquoise comes back into style. Whether you buy bangles, rings, or a necklace, you will find that turquoise is available in a variety of price ranges and tones. Authentic turquoise is of course on the pricey side, but there are great faux turquoise pieces out there as well that you can buy for just a few dollars. Here are a few selections that you can find at Nordstrom from $35.00 - $375.00.

Second on my list is an embellished sandal.  Let’s face it . . . we all don’t have pretty feet!  BUT - with a fun pair of sandals that have a beautiful embellished twist, our feet can certainly look their best! You can find some of these great looks below at  www.ninewest.com. Embellished sandals are great to dress up a simple outfit, and they look amazing while remaining comfortable.

Lastly, embrace the idea of carrying a new handbag. Printed clutches and cross body pouches are my personal favorites for the season. If you're anything like me, downsizing purses is a severe problem, and trying to cram everything into a clutch seems like a nightmare. However, if you're willing to make the sacrifice for a day to vamp up jeans and a tee with one of these bags, you're going to be happy you did. Check out some of these bags found at Saks and Nordstrom.