Recently in Women's Apparel Category

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!

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.
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:

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

I love AllSaints Spitalfields the only thing is that their sales are few and far in between. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind paying for quality but a discount is a discount right? Well, I'm happy to share with you this fabulous ONE day sale from AllSaints, Get 25% OFF everything!

Take advantage of this sale event, either for the people on your gift list or better yet for yourself! Save on apparel, shoes and accessories for men and women. This sale is only valid on 12/16/11 and as an added bonus free shipping all day as well on any orders. AllSaints also guarantees deliver before Christmas on orders placed on 12/16/10. Simply use code: CHRISTMAS at the checkout basket. Happy Shopping!

From a men's tailoring store in London circa 1971, Reiss today has 90 stores world wide and offers fashion forward, innovative and original designs for both men and women. I like the simple and understated designs yet modern and classic.

Winter is all about layering and it is not easy to look fashionable as it seems. The key is structured pieces. How to look chic amidst the snow and slush can be challenging. Your jacket or coat is a focal piece. It has to be stylish and functional. Just like this Reiss seamed jacket with waist detail. Made with wool and cashmere, this is an investment you won't regret. Pair with pants, denim jeans or even over a dress. The tie belt gives it an extra oomph.

You can find more pieces like this at Reiss online store. And make sure to check out their 12 Days of Christmas - exclusive discounts&prizes to be won every day!

I've been a fan of Comme Des Garcons since I high school. The fashion-forward, edgy and unique designs gravitated me to the iconic Japanese fashion label. But sometimes their pieces can be to 'out-there'. Take for example this Half Jacket. This deconstructed jacket with a cropped sleeveless tank is undeniably a piece of wearable art. Unfortunately, when it comes to functionality and practicality it doesn't score well. Specially when you take into consideration the hefty price tag.