My Ruffle Paradox

Ruffles... I love them! I'm not sure why, since I've never been a real girlie-girl. In fact, for most my life I was pretty much a tomboy, with a dash of fashion flair. But for some reason, ruffles just make me happy. I think they offset my classic style with a bit of whimsy and quirkiness. And, if done right, they offer an unexpected punch of soft sophistication -- a bit of a paradox, I suppose.

This season's ruffle trends afford me the ability to be girlie in my own irreverent way. Here are a couple of designer inspiration pieces and their bargain counter-parts. Be warned, though, too many ruffles are just plain silly. So keep it simple -- one ruffle piece at a time!

Designer Looks

Poplin Ruffle Tank Dress, Zac Posen, $1150


Rose Vertigo Satchel, Valentino, $2395

Bargain Looks

Ruffle-front Sheath, Chadwicks, $39.99; Alyssa Shirt Dress, Delias, $44.50

Ruffle Front Tote, Arden B, $58; Ruffle Round Toe Flat, gojane.com, $12

Election Day Party Dress

Whether you're from a blue state or a red state, this Tuesday will be a historic day for our country. And whatever your political persuasion, the excitement of it all deserves to be celebrated. So, what better way to do that than have a party for your party! If you're a tried and true red-stater or a bold and brazen blue-stater, check out these party dresses that will wow any party!

If you've got a few extra bucks...

Oragami Front Dress, Valentino, $3,750


Lace-Rose Silk Dress, Valentino, $9,990

If you need to save a few extra bucks...

Stretch Satin Sheath Dress, Maggy London, $168


Strapless Chiffon Dress, Maggy London, $158

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

It's Spring Training time... well, at least here in Arizona it is. Yep, every year in March, baseball teams converge on Phoenix and it's surrounding suburbs to take in the beautiful weather and the posh training facilities our cities have erected to bring tourism & big bucks to their economies. Above all else, these games are a great place to people watch, and to be watched by good-looking, all-American, baseball-beer-drinking-loving men! And what better way to get their attention than to look fabulously chic in a cute & approachable outfit that says "Hello, boys! Buy me a beer!"

Designer Look















Top, $285; Shorts, $175.00, both Milly












Shoes, $395, Valentino


Bargain Look

















Top, $69, Bebe



















Shorts, $22.50, Old Navy















Shoes, $29, Victoria's Secret

Totals
Designer Look: $855
Bargain Look: $120.50
A savings of $734.50!!