Fringe Benefits

The way the economy has been on a downward spiral for the last six months, I've realized that fashion has taken a cue from this obvious "depression" by invoking a time prior to the original G.D. (Great Depression, if you were stumped) when America was shedding its Victorian ways and women, in particular, were bucking the status quo in their flapper fringe and boyish bobs. It was a great time to be a woman -- the new fashions were daring and unfettered -- and everyone was embracing this new era of nonconformity.

My hope is that a return to fun, flirty, fringe inspired fashions will keep our minds off the doldrums of our current economic situation and on to better times ahead. Just remember: Times may be bad, but your fashion doesn't have to be!

Here are some fringe-worthy looks for those that got bailout money and those that wish they had.

Designer Look
Aquilano.Rimondi, Spring 2009 Read-To-Wear
(photo courtesy style.com)

Bargain Look

Twelve by Twelve, Ruffle Sweater Dress, $29

Trifle Dress by Esley, $48.50

Hanalei Dress by Aryn K, $103

Happy Valentine's Day!

Valentine's Day is tomorrow, and although I think it is a bit of an obnoxious holiday, it is still a day to love and be loved by those you hold close to your heart. So if you're planning an evening out with your man or your best girlfriends, have a little fun, look a little sexy, and remember "all you need is love."

Designer Look
Dolce & Gabbana Strapless Bustier Dress, $3450

Sigerson Morrison Knotted Sandal, $695

Bargain Look
Vogue Dress, LuLu's, $49

Carlos by Carlos Santana Cage Ankle Sandal, $80.60

I Heart My Heart

February is the month of the heart. We celebrate its ability to love, to ache and to heal. We also celebrate its vitality and strength through raising awareness about keeping it healthy. The American Heart Association is leading the way in promoting heart-healthy lifestyles and is the impetus behind the Go RED for Women campaign.

Heart disease is the number one killer of women, and it nearly took my mom's life. Four and a half years ago, my mom suffered a heart attack and underwent triple by-pass surgery. She survived thankfully, but is still struggling with health issues. To honor her and raise awareness about this disease, I am walking in my hometown's Heart Walk event. If you are interested in joining the fight to beat heart disease, please take a moment to visit my Heart Walk personal donation page to read my story and contribute to the cause of keeping hearts healthy.

Start loving your heart today!
Teekay

Go Red for More

Fiona Dress, MARC by Marc Jacobs, $298

Go Red for Less

Belted Dress, Twelve by Twelve, $39

And, the ultimate Go Red accessory...

Petal Sandal, Christian Louboutin, $995