Sticking to a Fashion Resolution

There comes a time when you open your overflowing closet to pick out an outfit and you realize how much money you spend on looking fashionable. All this money spent on labels that will be tossed in the pile of last year’s trends in the blink of an eye. When it comes to basics wardrobe staples I wouldn’t think twice about spending a little extra cash on a timeless piece that will last through multiple seasons of wear. However, when it comes to the trends that rarely make it through a year I find it is futile to spend good money on these outfits. Besides, as a mother I have better things to put this money towards (i.e. Baby Fabulous’ college savings, family vacations…oh, and did I mention diapers?)

On a recent shopping excursion I had a mission to buy an outfit with only the $80 cash I had in my wallet. A few hours later, the mission was successfully accomplished. I had a 3-piece outfit ($27 silk top, $27 fully beaded cropped sweater and $22 trousers) with $4 to spare. With picky choosing I managed to find three pieces that look more costly than their actual worth.

One great store to find a steal on an ultra-trendy look is Forever 21. I have put together two of the moment looks (shoes and accessories included for under $136). Both outfits transition seamlessly from the office to the evening. The best part is, you’ll look like you spent hundreds on these uber-chic outfits!

The Look: Modern Victorian Romance

Total Outfit: $81.80 (6 pieces!)
The wide belt at the waist and patent accessories pull this classic Victorian look into 2008.

1. Top: $19.80 - "Victorian Ruffle Top"
2. Skirt: - $22.80 "Corset Skirt"
3. Clutch: $9.80 - "Patent Wristlet Wallet"
4. Patent Heels: $19.80 - "Jelena Patent Slingback - Tan"
5. Earrings: $4.80 - "Filigree Teardrop Earrings"
6. Necklace: $4.80 - "Monoca Necklace"



The Look: City Chic

Total Outfit: $135.40
(8-pieces!!)

An effortless look that includes the trendy cloche hat and a gorgeous graphic print bag.

1. Cloche: $18.80 "Cocktail Bowler Hat"
2. Baby Doll Top: $19.80 "Chiffon Baby doll Tunic"
3. Trousers: $27.80 "Satin Trim Trousers"
4. Patent Heels: $19.80 "Jelena Patent Slingback - Black"
5. Handbag: $34.80 "Valerie Faux Leather Handbag"
6. Gold Filigree Earrings: $4.80 "Metal Leaf Earrings"
7. Gold Filigree Bangle: $5.80 "Filigree Bangle"
8.Ring: $3.80 "Antique Flower Ring"


Both of these looks, plus many more fabulous and trendy pieces can be found at Forever21.com.