The Smart Stylist

The Smart Stylist'sTop 10 Gift Picks Under $100 For Mom!

2012-05-07T18:05:00Z

Fossil 'Stella' Watch $95.00, Marc Jacobs 'Daisy Eau So Fresh' Spring Set $92.00,
Toms Mother's Day Vegan Classic $54.00, Tom Ford Beauty Eye Color Quad $75.00

With Mother's Day only a few days away, here are some gift ideas that I'm sure the mom will love. While working on this gift list, I'm glad to know that there are quite a bit of fabulous gifts under $100 out there. But as we all know, as cliche it may sound, that is still the thought that counts when giving a gift to someone as special as mom.

Keurig Mini Brewer $99.99 (on sale through 5/14), Romero Britto Teapot $64.99,
Red Chalkboard Honeysuckle Candle $25.00

Marc by Marc Jacobs Scarf $98.00, Ninewest Tote $69.00, Alexis Bittar Bangle $65.00

Smart Shopping:Shopbop Friends and Family Sale!

2012-04-17T16:25:00Z

It seems like it has been ages since I posted any shop-worthy sale events. Anyhow, Shopbop is having their Friends&Family Event for 2 days only! Starting today through tomorrow, save an extra 20% off your entire order. Save on apparel, footwear and accessories from top designers and brands like Alice+Olivia, Marc Jacobs, Joie and so much more. There are a few designer exclusions for this sale. Simply use code: INTHEFAMILY20 at checkout. And as always free shipping and free returns is extended to US residents. Happy Shopping!

*Code cannot be applied to gift certificates or shipping costs. Designer Exclusions apply to the following brands: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Alexander Wang, Maison Martin Margiela, MM6 Maison Martin Margiela, Proenza Schouler, Reem Acra, Thakoon, and UGG Australia.

Alice + Olivia Halter with Scarf $264.00, 10 Crosby Derek Lam Halter Tank $175.00

Splurge of the Week:Lanvin Snakeskin Puzzle Wedge Sandal

2012-04-04T15:00:00Z

Lanvin Snakeskin Puzzle Wedge Sandal $1,590.00 Barneys

For the past 10 years Alber Elbaz has been the driving force behind French fashion house, Lanvin. His collection gets better season after season and have gained a global following. Barneys is celebrating Elbaz's 10 years with Lanvin by featuring an interview with the designer and handpicked a few pieces from the collection.

These statement-worthy wedge sandals are just in time for the season. Love the snakeskin and wood puzzle wedge. It gives it a modern look with the right amount of edge. I love that these sandals are quite versatile you can pair them with jeans, skirts and dresses.

How to Find a Prom Dress on a Budget

2012-03-15T14:25:00Z

Clarise Prom Dress $99.00 SALE. Available in lime, magenta and baby blue.

Spring is in full swing and that means prom time is just around the corner. And as a new group of prom girls learn every year that can be a very expensive turn to take.

Of course you want to look great for prom, not just because of your date and all your friends but because there will be picture after picture taken of you and when you look back on that special night you want to be able to say that you looked great!

That being said, the right prom ensemble can be quiet expensive. In addition to your dress you're going to need shoes, accessories, money to get your hair done and buy that new make-up that looks so good. Then there is also the cost of the ticket, plus whatever you are doing before and after prom and you can't forget to chip in for the limo that will take you and your group to the special event.

With all the costs associated with prom its no wonder that every year young women across the country look for a way to save as much as they can on their prom dress. Just because you don't want to spend a lot on a dress does not mean that you have to settle for second hand or a boring department store dress. Instead try these five simple steps to help you use the internet to bring an affordable prom dress right to your door!

*Featured article created by promgirl.net in collaboration with thesmartstylist.com. Exclusive 10% discount on your purchase use coupon code: 'SMART' at checkout!
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Decided what style of dress you are interested in.

Look through some popular magazines for dress advertisements and pictures of your favorite celebrities on the red carpet to help inspire some ideas. Decide what colors or styles most interest you and remember to keep your figure in mind. Just because a dress looks good on one body type does not mean it will be flattering to all. Many online retailers will offer tips on what types of dresses to look for depending on the shape of your body.

Scour the web.

As every good bargain hunter knows, if you want to save money then you have to spend some time. There are plenty of great prom dress websites that will allow you to search for your dress by color, style and even by price.

Be sure to check the sale sections.

Just like regular boutiques most online dress shops will put last year's styles on sale in time for this year's prom season. While it may at first sound like a fashion faux-pas anyone who has been in the prom business will tell you: no one is going to notice that you're wearing a 2011 style, they will just notice your great new dress and all its accessories.

Print out pictures of your top choices.

Once you have settled on three or four dresses that you really like print out a color picture of each. Take the pictures and hang them in your locker or by your dresser for a few days. After looking at them time and time again over the course of a few days you'll notice that there is going to be one that your instincts draw you to, so just like that you've picked your dress!

Seal the deal and steal the show.

Once you've decided on a dress don't wait, order it right away and make sure that you carefully measure yourself because if you have to exchange the dress for a different size it can eat up money that could be spent on finding the perfect accessories for your new gown.
Now that you have your dress use all that money you saved on your make-up, hair and accessories, you will see that the finished product was well worth the wait!

Clari Farkash is the designer behind the Clarisse line of prom dresses, homecoming dresses and short party dresses all available online at promgirl.net. Clarisse designs have been worn by Miss Galaxy International, Miss Teen Galaxy UK and plenty of other Pageant stars and celebrities. Promgirl.net has been selling dresses and gowns by America's top designers for over 25 years and has been online since 1999.

Must watch: NBC Fashion Star

2012-03-14T15:30:00Z

*image courtesy of nbc.com

Finally, the wait is over! After seeing the previews for NBC's new show Fashion Star, I was hooked. But, I'll be honest I had my reservations on what can the show offer to viewers that they haven't seen from a fashion reality show before. Last night was the pilot episode and here's my take on the show.

The Mentors:

Jessica Simpson - from pop princess to multimillion dollar fashion brand. I'm happy to see her back on television.
Nicole Richie - created the award winning brand House of Harlow 1960. Happy to see her as well. A totally different Nicole since the last time we saw her in a show with her then BFF Paris Hilton.
John Varvatos - having been the menswear designer for Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren, he launched his own line in 2000 and has become one of fashion's top designer and brand.

The Buyers:

Terron Schaefer - Saks Fifth Avenue's executive vice-president and chief creative officer.
Caprice Willard - featured buyer for Macy's.
Nicole Christie - H&M featured buyer.

This is the something 'different' Fashion Star has to offer. I love the fact that the designers/contestants get the opportunity of a lifetime. Each week, the buyers make offers and outbid each other on the designer's garments. And the biggest incentive for the designer is, their creations can be purchased the day after the show! The opportunity of having a designer's pieces sold at Saks, Macy's and H&M is a huge accomplishment.

The Show:

I like the upbeat and fast pace of the program. It does remind me of a Victoria Secret fashion show. I wonder if host/producer Elle Macpherson channeled her inner 'angel for the show.

*image courtesy of nbc.com

As far as the designers, no one really stood out for me. I mean it's the first episode. I'm sure someone will rise to the occasion as the show progress. The only thing that didn't sit well with me is how some of the designers talked back to the mentors and buyers in a not so nice way.

Where to shop:

Smart Shopping:French Connection Extra 30% OFF Sale Items!

2012-03-08T16:00:00Z

Nuovo Drop Waist Coat $149.99, Midnight Spark Dress $99.99, Flared Skirt $39.99

French Connection is having a fabulous sale now through March 31st. Save an extra 30% off sale items! You can save up to 70% with the additional discount. There is quite the selection for women at the moment, so shop now for the best selection. Use code: FCOUTLET at checkout. Free shipping is offered to purchases of $150 or more. Happy shopping!

Smart EcoStyle of the Week:TOMS 'Corbel' Vegan Classics

2012-03-07T16:00:00Z

TOMS Corbel Women's Vegan Classics $54.00

Spring officially starts in two weeks (March 20th) and surely I'm not the only one excited about this. But so far it has been a very forgiving winter for us in Michigan. As the new season unfolds, closets and wardrobes change as well. We tuck our winter ensemble to the back, spring front and center.

Herald in the new season with these eco-chic vegan shoes by TOMS. Made with no animal products and pesticide free cotton. The watercolor floral print gives them a fresh and light feel. As always, TOMS would match every pair sold with a pair of new shoes given to a child in need.

Splurge of the Week:Christian Louboutin Roxanne Shoulder Bag

2012-02-23T16:00:00Z

Christian Louboutin 'Roxanne' Watersnake and Leather Shoulder Bag $2,495.00 Saks

'Oh Louboutin!' as if his masterful footwear is not enough. Now his handbags are the most coveted accessories among fashionistas, stylists and celebrities. This 'Roxanne' shoulder bag has statement written all over it. From the shiny spiked studs to the sleek watersnake design, you'll turn heads toting this edgy handbag. And this piece is a definite luxury. So, to splurge or not to splurge?

Smart Beauty: Slice Tweezers

2012-02-13T16:00:00Z

Slanted Soft-Touch Tweezers $19.99, Cosmetic Pencil Sharpener $9.99
Exclusively designed by Michael Graves for Slice.

I'm sure you can relate when I say, the beauty tools in the cosmetic aisle can be confusing. With all the selection, which product will give you the best bang for your buck. Sure, you can buy the $5 tweezers but you'll find yourself looking for another one in a matter of days!

I've been using Tweezerman tweezers until I was introduced to a better and quite stylish line of tweezers. Slice beauty tools are the latest addition to their award winning, innovative collection of cutting tools for your home, office and school. Slice collaborated with American architect Michael Graves resulting in a collection of tools with functionality, style and innovation. The initial 12 designs are the result of a 2-year collaboration between Slice and Mr. Graves, and include six different models of precision tweezers, nail scissors, cuticle scissors, fingernail clippers, toenail clippers, a ceramic nail file, and cosmetic pencil sharpener.

Another reason why I highly recommend Slice products is their cause. Slice donates a minimum of 1% of corporate worldwide sales to various autism research programs. This is such an endearing selfless act by Slice founder TJ Scimone, he founded Slice in 2008 as a way to help his son, Alex, who is autistic.

So, my dear readers keep Slice products in mind when shopping for your next beauty or cutting tools. Not only you get an amazing product you're helping to find a cure for the millions of children and their families who live with autism every day.

The Smart Stylist Recommends: Le Chateau

2012-02-08T16:00:00Z

With the thousands of stores and online shops to choose from, it can be fun for others but perhaps just madness for some. Speaking through experience, it seems like every store just have the same stuff and that's why we shop where we are most comfortable. With this, we miss out on other fabulous resources out there.

Photos from Le Chateau's Spring Collection

When you come across a new store or online boutique, do what I do. First, I check out their inventory (how much of it is original designs or do they only offer items from known labels and designers), style (do they offer current trends, do they carry exclusive items or specialty pieces) and of course quality and price (are you getting your money's worth).

Hence, I recommend Le Chateau, this Canadian specialty retailer has been around since 1959. And thanks to the internet, for us who don't have access to one of their stores, we can now get our hands on their pieces. I love the contemporary styles and modern designs that are priced reasonably. The selection is not vast but with some creativity you can create an array of head-to-toe looks.

So, if you would like to try something new and fresh check out Lechateau.com. Have a fabulous day!

Women's Ikat Print Canvas Wedge $89.95

Smart EcoStyle of the Week:Alternative Apparel Eco Fleece Sweatshirt

2012-01-20T16:00:00Z

Alternative Apparel Maniac Eco Fleece Sweatshirt $44.00

This Maniac Eco Fleece Sweatshirt by Alternative Apparel just screams comfort! I love the vintage appeal and the neck is understated yet can be sexy if worn the right way. This sweatshirt is made by Alternative Apparel's natural fleece alternative. The kangaroo pocket gives it a youthful feel. This garment is a perfect addition to anyone's closet. Available in a assortment of colors and priced just right in my opinion.

Crimes of Fashion:Gienchi Studded Leopard Print Sneakers

2012-01-18T16:00:00Z

Gienchi Silk Studded Leopard Print Sneakers $400.00 luisaviaroma.com

Seeing these sneakers was a 'WTH' moment for me. Personally, leopard print on itself is fine, but to embellish can just be to much! Don't get me wrong, I love me some metal in my fashion, in this case though to garish. And yes, the above photos shows brand new sneakers, the worn or should I say dirtied look comes with the $400 price tag. Overall, these sneakers are not a smart investment.

Splurge of the Week:Bottega Veneta Knot Intreccio Memory Clutch

2012-01-10T16:25:00Z

Bottega Veneta Knot Intreccio Memory Clutch $2,320.00 Barneys

One way to beat the winter blues is to think spring! Let me help you with that with these colorful and oh-so-chic clutches from Bottega Veneta. Clutches are not for evenings no more. An array of colors, shapes and sizes were on tote in a number of Spring 2012 collections making them one of the must-haves for the season. I came across Bottega Veneta's Memory clutch and just absolutely adored them. The woven leather gives it a luxurious texture and a modern look from the bright colors. I particularly love the knot clasp detail.

Smart Shopping: Shopbop Extra 20% Off Items Marked 50% and 70% Off!

2012-01-03T05:35:00Z

Happy New Year to you my dear readers! I'm sure most of your are still recovering from the holidays and the last thing on your list is to shop. But Shopbop is having a fabulous sale event that I just have to share with you!

Starting today, 1/3/12 through Thursday 1/5/12. Save an extra 20% off items marked 50% off and 70% off! Is that a savings or what?

Save on hundreds of apparel, shoes and accessories from your favorite designers and brands like L.A.M.B., Marc by Marc Jacobs, Alexander Wang and so much more! Simply use code: EXTRA20 at checkout. Code is only valid for items marked 50% and 70% off.

Happy Shopping!
shown left: L.A.M.B. Sleeveless Turtleneck $125.00

Smart EcoStyle of the Week:Timberland Earthkeepers 'Rudston' Boots

2011-12-27T16:00:00Z

Timberland Earthkeepers 'Rudston' Pull-On Boots $119.00 Sale zappos.com

I have to be honest, women's shoes is the last thing that comes to mind when I hear Timberland. Men's Timberland boots are actually nicely made and it is not surprising to apply the workmanship on their women's line. Taking the eco-conscious initiative, Timberland has a collection of footwear that contains durable, high-quality footwear made in an environmentally-friendly way aptly named Earthkeepers.

The 'Rudston' boot has waterproof construction with waterproof leather upper made from a tannery rated Silver for improved energy and waste management and features recycled PET mesh lining offers breathability to keep your legs and feet fresh. Consider this eco-stylish boot on your next shoe shopping. Not only it will serve it's purpose during the cold season but you are also helping our precious environment.