The Season For Bargains

I think I can officially say that the beginning of the holiday season has begun and with it comes sales, sales and more sales! It seems every department store, retail store and boutique is having bigger and better sales than ever before. Granted, this also could be directly related to the country's economic downturn, but for me it means finding chic fashion at bargain prices. Here are a few great deals that I picked up this weekend.

Short-sleeve blazer, Banana Republic, $39.99


Green shawl collar blouse, Banana Republic, $17.99


Sweater-coat, Ambition, Macy's, $52.80

Mad About Plaid

Of the many trends that have come and gone for the Fall and Winter seasons, the one that always finds its way back to us is PLAID. Whether it be a plaid skirt, a vest, a dress, or even a shirt (remember grunge?), plaid has made its way onto nearly every piece of clothing over the last few decades. Sometimes it has worked; and, sometimes it hasn't.

This season, however, it does work, and plaid is more sophisticated than ever. It's all about the cut, the shape and the style. Here are two looks that take the plaid trend and mixes it with a classic pea coat to create a chic and modern look that will last for decades to come.

Photo credit: Glamour, October 2008 issue, pg. 305.

Designer Look

Coat, jeans, shoes, D&G; scarf, bag, Dolce & Gabbana.


Bargain Look

Coat, American Eagle Outfitters, $129.50


Editor Pant, Express, $69.50


The Ming Scarf, Tasaram, $49


Tatta, Naturalizer, $69.99. Croco Dome Bag, Chadwicks, $69.

Fall Trend Alert: The Stylish Pantsuit

It's what I like to call sleek sophistication. Undeniably chic and utterly elegant. Mix two new trends -- cropped jackets and wide-leg pants -- and combine them with unique details and classic colors, and you are ripe for a refined outfit that can suit any occasion. Like the designer inspiration outfit below, I've found the same elements at much more friendlier prices so you can mix and match them in any way you'd like.

Photo Credit: Glamour, October 2008, Page 299.

Designer Look

Capelet, top, sweater, pants, Bill Blass; shoes, Gucci.

Bargain Look

Contoured Cardigan, Anthropologie, $39.95. Swing Jacket, Old Navy, $69.50



Turtleneck, Gap, $38.



Tab-waist Trouser, $64.50. Demi Boot-Cut Pinstripe Pant, $59.50, both Gap.


Gidsa, Nine West, $69.99. Suede Shootie, Joan & David, DSW.com, $79.95.