Casual Cool

Casual, Cool & Chic

I like the comfort of being laid back and the easiness of dressing casually, but I also love maintaining chicness while I do it. This tribal print gray & black wool blend jacket comes from Forever21. I found it in the clearance section, and it was half off the already marked down price.  I only paid $12 for it. The black lycra leggins are by DKNY. I bought them on sale for $ 21.99, from Nordstrom Rack. The original retail price was $79.99. This jacket is so versatile, it can be restyled just by changing the shoes and adding a nice winter hat.

Accessory Tip:

I added a little something to the outfit by accessorizing it with a cummerbund styled suede belt,  that is accented with leather trim and two snap enclosures.  A pair of silver hoops and simple silver chain are all you need to keep the look on trend.

Shoe Tip:

I wore these high heeled "Boutique9" booties with this outfit. The gray wool contrasts nicely with the black leather up the front, along the top and down the 4" heels. The brass accented lace up enclosures are also a nice detail.They were purchased from Nordstrom for around $99. 

Western Option:

An alternative to the short booties, are these over the knee riding boots. They are by Vince Camuto. The original retail price was $249.99. To enhance the riding boot, add a gray or black Stetson cowboy hat, black jeans, and a tooled leather belt for a more western vibe.

Time To Shine

Holiday Sparkle

The holiday season is literally just weeks away. Beat the other revelers by getting a head start on your party attire. When I'm looking for the perfect dress for that special occasion, the first place I look is in my closet. If you are a savvy shopper, I'm sure you've bought items in the off season, because of the drastically reduced price. I only paid about $40 for this dress. The regular price was over $150. I bought it last February; because I knew there would come a time when I'd need something pretty to wear during the next holiday season. This strapless silk dress is by Calvin Klein. The platinum color looks like a tall glass of sparkling champagne. The body conscience ruched design, hugs the curves, while providing a distraction for the most critical eye. The oversize bow detail is another element which adds interest and flair. 

Accessory Tip: I think a pair of studs (diamond, crystal, or cubic zirconia), with a studded choker would be the perfect accessories for this dress.  The only other piece of jewelry I would consider adding, would be a either a tennis bracelet or a studded cuff. 

Shoe Tip:

The shoes are by Casadei. They are made of a combination of champagne colored silk and jet black patent leather. The champagne color in the shoes, couples very well with the color of the dress. They are traditional sling backs modernized with the addition of ankle straps. The regular price was $450, but I bought them from Dillards on sale for much less.

Let's Rock n Roll

Rock Star Ready

This is one of my most statement making pieces. It definitely causes heads to turn. This python snake print duster is made by Kathryn Conover. The print and texture looks and feels like real python, but it's actually made from polyester and elasthanne.The various purples and caramel color compliment each other beautifully. I bought this duster years ago from Nordstrom on sale for $109. The original retail price was $268. When I purchased it it was actually a wrap dress, that I redesigned into a duster. I was looking for something cool to wear to a concert, and wanted it to have a hip yet sophisticated appeal. The pattern, colors, and design of this jacket are very bold, and requires a certain type of fashion confidence to wear it. I wore it with a pair of purple skinny jeans and matching purple T-shirt. 

Accessory Tip: The only jewelry I wore with this outfit was a pair of over sized purple crystal earrings. I didn't wear a necklace because of the busyness of the pattern in the fabric. I also wore an over-sized caramel colored satchel handbag.

Shoe Tip: I chose to keep the Rock n Roll 
 theme going, by being just as bold with my boots. They are by Stuart Weitzman, and originally sold for $498. Made from caramel colored calfskin leather, with a four inch stacked wood heel. The butter soft leather hugs the calf and rises 3-4 inches above the knee. The designer took both style and comfort into consideration, by adding a matching strip of elastic at the top rear of the boot. This allows the boots to fit to perfection, without cutting into the back of the thigh. The clean design of the shaft has simple top-stitched detailing. This boot is so versatile, it can either be rocked out in the way it was with this duster or worn with a business suit.

"I Hit The Shoe Jackpot"

These Boots Are Made For 
Walking!

You won't believe what amazing price I got these Salvatore Ferragamo, "G700 Pegasus" boots for. I bought them a few weeks ago at Haute.com, a Nordstrom online website. I was wishing on a star, when I saw them in a major fashion magazine, while at the hair salon back in June. Knowing that I would never lay down $1850 for a pair of boots, I put them on my watch list, and periodically "googled" them to see if I could find them on sale. After checking on them for several months, I gave up on the idea of being able to buy them at my preset price point.

Well luckily for me, I had a ding, ding, ding, ding, ding moment, while perusing through the clearance boots at Haute.com, and these popped up at $299. That's more than 80% off the original retail price. Purchasing these at this kind of discount is a two-fold win. One, I bought them at a drastically reduced price, and two, should I decide to, I can resale them online on Ebay, Poshmark or Tradesy and probably make a profit.

The zebra print trench coat is by Ralph Lauren.

Bling It Out!

Chopard Swarovski Crystal Shades

The bling doesn't have to stop at the fingers. These Chopard shades are encrusted with Swarovski baguette crystals, that sparkle like diamonds. The square shape of the lens with rounded edges have a universal look. Whether your face is round, oval, or pear shaped, these will look great on you. They are authentic Chopard glasses, that cost $735. This type of purchase is definitely an investment. I was fortunate enough to get them as a gift. They were purchased from the Chopard store, at South Coast Plaza, but can also be found at several online retailers at a 10-25% discount. Online sites such as Tradesy.com offers a plethora of top of the line designer sunglasses at an even deeper discount, because they are primarily pre-owned glasses in "like new" condition. 

Bougie Rouge's Tip: If you don't want to make this kind of investment, consider this. I once purchased a really beautiful pair of plain gray sunglasses on clearence at Sunglass Hut for $49. I took the glasses to Michael's Arts & Craft hoping to find coordinating stones I could adorn the glasses with. I purchased a pack of smoke colored Swarovski crystal stones, a tube of industrial glue and embellished the arms of the glasses with the crystals to give them the bling I was looking for. 

Falling for Fall...

Luxurious Leather

The leaves are changing colors, and the temperature's dropping. This butter soft lambskin leather skirt is by Halogen. It has an A-line cut with inset side pockets, and a banded hem. The skirt isn't technically a mini, given it falls a few inches lower than a traditional mini skirt would. It's rich camel color is listed as one of the hot colors for fall/winter 2014. I guess I was ahead of the trend, when I purchased it from Nordstrom last fall, for about $129. I coupled the skirt with a poly blend wrap blouse from Forever 21. It has bell shaped long sleeves, which gives it a boho feel. The camel, navy, rust, browns, and pumpkin colors in the blouse compliments the solid skirt.

Accessory Tip: Keep it simple. Don't over do it with the jewelry. I think a pair of over sized gold hoops and a few gold bangles are enough. No need for a belt, noting the contrasting sash tie at the waist of the skirt.

Shoe Tip: A pair of brown or camel colored suede or leather shoe booties, or a pair of tall boots with a flat heel would definitely set this outfit off. Flat boots will help to maintain the sophistication of the outfit. I wouldn't necessarily recommend wearing tall boots with a high heel, due to the length of the skirt. Unless of course you're looking to give it a more urban vibe. 

Bougie Rouge's Shopping Tip:

As summer winds down, so do the prices of summer clothes and shoes. Now is the time to start looking for those end of the season deals. Most stores are anxiously trying to make room for their fall merchandise, and are aggressively slashing prices to clear the racks of the summer stuff. Expect to find the best deals from now through Labor Day. I bet you can find deep discounts on many of the pricier summer items you fell in love with at the beginning of the season. Believe it or not, now is also the time to save on fall 2014 fashions, as many of the retailers are working to boost their fall revenue by offering preseason sale promotions. Saving on both summer and fall items, is a win-win situation for savvy shoppers like us.

On The Ropes...

All Tied Up

These strappy sandals are by Vince Camuto. They are a bone colored tubed leather, with a snake embossed finish. The neutral color goes with just about everything. The twisting and knotting of the rope-like straps give them an artsy feel. The slightly padded leather insoles and 3 1/2" heel height, make them easy to wear. There is a gold zipper closure up the back of the shoe. I categorize this shoe as dressy-casual. I've worn them with dresses and jeans.

I purchased them from Nordstrom Rack for around $60. The original retail price was $149.


Style Tip: Wear them with rolled up skinny jeans,

                  so you don't conceal any of the intricate details.

Float Like A Butterfly

 The Butterfly Effect

This Michael Kors 100% silk scarf print dress is so airy, it appears to float as you walk. The mix of greens, chocolate, mocha, and white has been strategically placed, so that the dress has the look of a butterfly's wings. The thin straps are perfect for hot summer days or warm tropical nights. I found this dress on Poshmark.com (a new online site). I only paid $50 for it. The retail price was over $300. The handkerchief hemline is another beautiful detail.

Accessory Tip:
I wore a pair of green bamboo earrings and matching choker necklace with this dress. The earrings and necklace are a bit understated, and doesn't overwhelm the ethereal beauty of the dress.

Shoe Tip:
This dress would couple nicely with a multitude of shoe styles, but I chose to dress it up a bit, with a two toned green and white sling back. I purchased these Mano Italian leather shoes from Nordstrom, about 8 years ago. The spring green leather matches perfectly with one of the shades of green in the dress. Investing in a classic sling, is a very smart investment, because classic styles may go out of season, but they seldom go out of style.

              

Check out the link below, to see Heidi Klum wearing this same dress in a different color pallet and a more casual shoe. 
http://www.destinationkors.com/blog/heidi-klum-in-michael-michael-kors-1

Dorothy vs The Wicked Witch

 My Ruby Slippers

If Dorothy had these babies, she would have never left Oz. These are Stuart Weitzman's version of the ruby slipper. These silk stiletto pumps are serious head-turners. They are sleek retro-designed pumps embellished with genuine Swarovski crystal encrusted heels. I have worn these shoes with everything, from an evening gown to my most tattered designer jeans paired with a cashmere ruby colored sweater.They retailed for $425. I bought these little gems for $159.

 My Little Pretty

The fight between Dorothy and the Wicked Witch over a pair of shoes, didn't have to happen. The Witch had her own shoes! These black beauties are on fire. They are "AZA" by Joan & David. The shiny patent is almost blinding. The 4" heel has a mirror finish detail on the underside. The inside of the shoe is red, and when I wear them, they give the appearance of a red light illuminating my feet. The original retail price was $189. I snagged them for the sweet price of $18.99, while vacationing in Arizona.

Dress To Impress

Boardroom Ready

I purchased this entire outfit, shoes included for less than $100. I bought the blouse from Forever 21, for $24.99. I was so excited when I saw it, because it looked just like one I'd seen at a Versace store in Las Vegas for $465. The combination of navy and pearl is stunning. This shirt can even dress up jeans. I wear it with a pair of trouser cut, dark blue denim jeans, for a dressy-casual look. 

Here, it's paired with a navy blue skirt I found on the clearance rack at Burlington for $14.99. The skirt is pencil cut, with a wide waistband, enhanced by a slight v-shape cutout.

The pointed toe patent leather pump is by Via Spiga. They have scalloped edges and a silver metallic 3" heel. I purchased them from Nordstrom Rack for $49. The original price was $169.

Accessory Tip: 

Simple silver toned or pearl jewelry is a nice compliment to the pearlized undertone in the shirt. 

Shoe Tip: 

Invest in a classic pump that will transition easily as your fashion taste evolves. A 3" heel is high enough to give extension to your height, yet comfortable enough to walk in all day.

Summer Soiree

Oh So Fresh!

We are dab in the middle of the summer's heat, and who wouldn't want to twirl in this, at a summer soiree. This Calvin Klein dress was designed using the simplest of straight lines. The skirt of the dress has a handkerchief hemline, and the flare is just airy enough to give it a floaty feel. Calvin put the devil in the details along the shoulder of the dress, by adding croc-print patent leather straps, with gold buckles. The retail price was around $139.00.

Accessory Tip:
A pair of white or gold earrings with a hint of dangle, would definitely compliment the unique buckle detail, combine with either a gold necklace or maybe even something with mother of pearl shells. The necklace should be on the thinner side, but consider one with some length to give a little more contrast to the front of the dress. A gold chain belt could also be worn.

Shoe Tip:
Go the extra mile with the shoes.This sweet pair are from Guess. They are a blend of white and light tan leather, with a wood grain stacked heel. The mixture of the two colors coordinate beautifully with this dress. The way the hemline dips and rises, carries the eye straight to the shoes, which speak for themselves.

Bougie Rouge's Shopping Tip:

I pride myself on not paying full or regular price for anything. I have a passion for beautiful shoes, and would like to think of the ones I have as a collection of sorts. I also love designer clothes, not for the label, but mostly for the quality of the materials, craftsmanship, and the added details and design. To keep my “laissez faire” shopping spirit in check, I preset the amount I plan to spend that particular day, and almost never do I exceed it. I don't shy away from shopping at high-end stores or specialty boutiques, but I strategically use tunnel vision as I focus on the sale and clearance racks.

I use the same coupon mentality at the department stores that I use at the grocery store. Based on my shopping expertise (I use that term loosely), I have found that Macy's reigns as queen of customer loyalty coupons. Nordstrom offers its loyal credit card holders, a generous rebate once a certain amount in purchases is reached. They also offer a generous annual amount of alteration credit, once you reach a certain level of spending. This can really save you a lot of money, as the costs of alterations can be very expensive.

If you don't mind reading a few extra emails, go ahead and sign up with the stores you frequent the most. Many stores send special sale alerts and include extra discount coupons in their emails.

Greek Goddess

Artistic Impressions

This is  a Rachel Roy abstract scarf dress. This lovely piece of art will make an indelible fashion impression. Rachel combined classic black, champagne, mocha, and canary yellow.The bias cut of the dress allows the fabric to flow fluidly. The handkerchief bottom falls just at the ankle on one side, and about mid-calf on the other. This dress was purchased from a specialty boutique, and sold for about $150.

Accessory Tip:

Enhance the one shoulder cut of the dress by accessorizing it with gold (either matte or shiny) jewelry. A very slight or thin short necklace would sit just right on the asymmetrical neckline. Add a pair of thin gold hoops or studs. A collection of thin gold bangles, or a wide gold cuff would dress up a bare arm.

Shoe Tip:

The shoes are by Casadei. They are made of a combination of champagne colored silk and jet black patent leather. The sleek lines in the design of the shoe, couples very well with the lines in the dress. They are traditional sling backs modernized with the addition of ankle straps. The regular price was $450, but I bought them from Dillards on sale for much less.

A Match Made In Shoe Heaven

If this isn't matchmaking, what is?

I couldn't have match this dress and shoes better, had I custom ordered them. These colorful creations both came from Macy's. The dress is made of rayon with a hint of spandex, which allows you to wear it year round. The bold jewel toned colors and geometric design is so attractive. This dress falls right at the small part of the leg, just below the knee. It is definitely appropriate for the office.

The thin leather belt accentuates the waistline, and doesn't detract from the interesting pattern in the design.

Accessory Tip: A small suede clutch in either black or one of the other bold colors found in the shoes. Understated earrings and no necklace.

Shoe Tip: What can I say? The shoes are "Erba" by Rachel Roy, and cost $139. They are made of a combination of black, fuchsia, and periwinkle suede, and have a 1 1/2" coral colored patent leather stripe around the peep-toe tip. The  heels are 4", with a hidden platform sole, which makes them extra comfy. And yes, they buckle around the ankle, which is so complimentary to the calf of the leg.

"I Got It At Ross"

What a steal!

I snagged these gold studded wedges from Ross. They are Falchi brand shoes,  made from a snake print embossed vegan leather. The double row of ankle straps are a very nice detail. The shoes are adorned with gold spiked tack heads, that give them the edgy look currently found with many designer brands. The heel is made of a straw-like woven material, which adds a summery feel to the overall style of the shoe. The heel is 5" tall, but the wedge design makes them very easy to wear.

When I discovered the price was only $15, I felt like I had won the shoe sweepstakes.

Ross's comparable price is $79. I just saw them on ebay for $39.99.

Lady In Red!

One Hot Number

This is undeniably a certified "Head-Turner". It's a Kenneth Cole faux wrap dress, with a slight asymmetrical hemline. The dress is made from a combination of rayon and spandex. The cut gives the average body-shape an hourglass figure. The body conscience fit is very clingy, but the weight of the fabric is heavy enough to offer a snug fit without exploiting a less than toned behind. The deep cut v-shaped neckline offers an added element of sensuality.

I am seriously considering selling it, so if you want to make a statement without saying a word, you might want to buy it. This dress sold at Dillards for $99.

Accessory Tip:  The simpler the better. A small gold or silver necklace and earrings will do. If your rear end isn't where you'd like it to be, a pair of Spanx is all you need to smooth it out.

  

Shoe Tip: Plain black leather pumps would look great. If you already own a pair of neutral colored red-bottoms, they would look perfect with this dress. 

Femininity Rules

So Lady Like

Floral print dresses are definitely romantic. This dress would be fitting to wear as a guest to a summer or spring wedding or any other warm weather social gathering. The background sage/blue-green color, is enhanced by the bright hot pink, white, and lemon-yellow flowers. It's made from a fine polished cotton fabric, which is machine washable. 

The sleeveless design is an opportunity to show off your toned arms. The higher cut rounded neckline accentuates the neck and shoulder lines. The 3" banded waist, floral pattern, and pleated bottom gives it a slight retro vibe. 

I wore it to a wedding myself and received a ton of compliments. I purchased this lovely little piece from H & M, for less than $60.

Accessory Tip:

A pearl necklace with matching earrings and bracelet, are the perfect match for this dress. If attending an evening  or nighttime wedding or event, throw on a coordinating cashmere pashmina or lightweight shawl, to keep your shoulders warm.

Shoe Tip:

A white, yellow, or pink pump or sandal with a slightly higher heel will suffice. The dressier the event, the higher the heel should be.

Papparazzi Ready

 

         Celebrity Style With A Twist

This beauty is made of a four way stretch jersey knit fabric with the look and feel of ultra-expensive suede. Because the stretch is a four way blend, it offers a very custom and comfortable fit.

The beautiful curve hugging cut, accentuates the waistline, and emphasizes the curves of the hips. The gathered twisted front design draws the eyes to the triangle shaped detail, and the high low hemline gives it a very current appeal.

This dress is now up for grabs! Hurry click the shop button before someone beats you to it.
  

Accessory Tip: A large turquoise or metal necklace would go nicely with this edgy dress. If you decide to wear a bold necklace, keep the earrings understated, no need to over do it. The second option would be to go big on the earrings, add a cuff bracelet, and don't wear a necklace at all.

Shoe Tip: Shoe booties in suede or leather. Try a strappy sandal with ankle straps. They are sure to emphasize the high low hemline.

                                     Shoe by Giuseppe Zanotti

                The dress is such a bargain, you can splurge on the shoes.
            The shoes were recently on sale at DSW.