Yeah, it might not look like much but this little guy will transform your wardrobe.

The quintessential waist belt was not created to hold anything up. It doesn’t fit into loops, it offers no form of support, it’s not durable and it doesn’t save the world from your plumber’s crack. So what does this basic wardrobe staple do for you?

It works harder for you that you did for your A in Intro to Painting; it creates the illusion of a smokin’ waist.

Your closet (aka the storage bin under your bed) and your body are incomplete without this wardrobe essential.  Nothing gives you that perfect hourglass shape quite like a cinch at the waist. No matter if you have curves or none to claim, a braided belt like this one from American Eagle will not only create them, but let your wallet keep a fat curve of it’s own.

This belt is what saved the shirt-dress trend by mercifully adding some shape to an otherwise baggy and unflattering outfit. There are so many shirts and dresses in my own wardrobe that I won’t dare to wear unless I can find a suitable waist belt or I’m left feeling boxy and paunchy. Even if you don’t have a lot of this type of shirt, this belt is so versatile when worn right.

I love this belt because the braided detailing makes it a lot more interesting than any other belt I’ve got. And if I’m going to invest in a nice leather belt, it’s going to be black, so I appreciate that this cheapie option allows for some new color to enter my wardrobe that I don’t have to make above a twenty dollar commitment to.

The key to getting the most out of this belt is twofold, mainly because it will literally fold on top of itself since waists do not come equipped with belt loops. Hint number one: buy it large. It may sound contradictory, but if you can buy this belt large enough to fit your hips as a regular old belt, it will not only double its wearability, but a skinny belt on tailored pants or well fitting jeans also looks so chic. Essential and surprising hint number two you can find in your bookstore – yes, I said your bookstore: double-sided tape.

I’m serious. Since your waist is most likely a lot smaller than your hips, that belt is going to have a very saggy tail outside the buckle that has no loop to be tucked into, which can be a plus or could ruin your outfit. If you’re going for a casual look on your way to class with a baggy shirt or dress that you’re looking to bring some hobo fashion to, then by all means let the tail wag free. But if you’re looking for an added element to a tucked in fitted white blouse or button-up for a meeting with a professor (you need that extension) or a job interview (you need that horribly low-paying campus job), you’re going to need that double-sided tape to make the look professional and polished.

Just beware of a serious fashion don’t: I don’t care how loose your pants are after you join the crew team, if you’re wearing this fabulous waist belt, you will not be wearing another one on your hips. Not even if you convince yourself it’s hidden by that long shirt your wearing. No double belting!

And don’t even get me started on dates. We all know the fear of being too overdressed (heels or flats? jeans or a dress?) only to wear the wrong outfit and feel silly.

Well no more. Thanks to this kick ass belt (I am a firm believer that big belts make everything better) we now have two trusty ‘fits for those nights where anything goes. Both of these looks can be dressed up (with a quick swap of heels instead of those boots) and can be worn right into Spring. Because a stylista as budgety as yourself knows the importance of versatility!

The Big Belt With a Dress
If there’s one thing I know it’s that some things are worth spending on. And this belt is definitely one of them. It’s versatile, it makes a statement and it’s the perfect transition piece. The wooden beads scream summer, but the brown makes it heavy enough to wear now.

You can work this belt with just about anything, but I love it next to the bright hue of this dress. And have you seen the back? Hello there, sexy. Obviously the dress is great on it’s own, but adding the belt and covering up that bow takes a simple sheath and make it a little less simplified. Throw in the hair clip and some flat brown boots and you’re ready for some techno and an overpriced drink, or some 80s live-band-karaoke and a $2 beer.

Belt: Urban Outfitters, $42
Dress: Lulus.com, $30
Boots: Lulus.com, $36
Tights: Target, $7
Hair pin: Lulus.com, $17.

The Big Belt with Jeans
Wood, coral and turquoise may just be the best combination EVER. So obviously this is a look I am obsessed with. Throw a cardigan over the top for now and, come summer, swap out the boots for some flat woven sandals or cork wedges. This ensemble is easy and chic and just screams “Looking this good just comes naturally to me” and what better message could you send?

Belt: Urban Outfitters, $42
Top: Forever 21, $19.80
Skinny jeans: Express, $59.50
Boots: Forever 21, $38.80
Earrings: Forever 21, $4.80

Fashion Week, a sort-of welcome week for the rich and stylish, has come to an end. Come tomorrow, a construction crew will be taking the tents at Bryant Park down, models will hop on planes to London and editors will finally get more than three hours of sleep per night. This week’s had it all: appearances by D-List Celebrities (hello, Kelly Bensimon,) crazy parties (Alexander Wang rented out a gas station) and clothes, clothes, clothes. Ready to stock your closet for spring?

Here are the top trends for Spring 2010:

ASYMMETRICAL

Malandrino, Rebecca Taylor, BCBG Max Azria

Work out those triceps, ladies, because the one-shoulder dress is back in for spring. This trend seems tough to pull off, but a dress like this can literally be worn anywhere. Pair it with flats and a cardigan and you’re perfect for class; add a pair of heels and statement earrings and you’re set for a party. Too lazy to make a toga for that Grecian party? I can tell you from personal experience that these sorts of dresses look much classier than an XL-twin sheet wrapped around you. If only getting that Adonis was this easy…

ORANGE

Yigal Azrouel, Jason Wu, Vena Cava

We’ve all heard it: White is the new pink, pink is the new black, and black is the new Kelly green. In 2010, thought, we’ll all be wearing… orange. Although wearing this color head-to-toe might be a little extreme, wearing an orange tank-top with jeans would look great as a daytime look, while an orange mini-dress will make everyone look at you twice (in a good way!) at a bar. Just make sure your dress doesn’t match your tan…

BELTED

Rag & Bone, Alexander Wang, Proenza Schouler

There’s been some crazy-ugly trends going on lately: harem pants, muumuus, massive shoulder pads… But that’s (mostly) over. Almost every single designer sent looks down the runway that were accessorized with belts. Not only is this the easiest trend to re-create (find a belt, loop it around the smallest part of your waist and BAM!), but it’s also super-flattering on every single body type. Seriously, if there is one trend to go for this spring, it’s this one. After all, who doesn’t want Kim Kardashian curves?

SHEER

Ruffian, Badgley Mischka, 3.1 Phillip Lim

Obviously, this is a tougher trend to follow. Wearing that Ruffian look in 8 AM psychology will probably have some classmates wondering exactly what you do when you “study” off-campus. A more appropriate way to work this trend is a la Badgley Mischka. Shorter dresses instantly look classier with a layer of sheer fabric on top. If you’re extra-daring and want to try the 3.1 Phillip Lim version… take it from me and just don’t go with the white bra underneath. Your older self will thank you.

PRINTS

Charlotte Ronson, Diane Von Furstenberg, Nanette Lepore.

Come spring, all you’ll be seeing in stores are prints, prints and more prints. These aren’t your average polka dots and stripes either; this year, geometric patterns rule. To avoid looking like a fashion wannabe, stick to one print per outfit. Again, you can style this as casual or as fancy as you want. I’d pair a patterned skirt with a solid-colored tee shirt or a printed tank with a pair of jeans. A dress with a pattern will command attention when you walk in the room. By the end of the night, I promise you’ll be so sick of saying “yeah, I got it from Forever 21” to the girls who ask where you got such an adoooooooooooorable top.

Spring fashion is lookin’ good and I can’t wait to load up on all of these trends. Too bad there’s a whole lot of fall and winter to get through first. (But on the flip side, this gives Target/Forever 21 plenty of time to create more wallet-friendly options for all of us.)

[All photos via style.com]

I freakin’ love fall. It is absolutely, 100% the best season for fashion. The knee-high boots? The patterned tights? The cardigans? The Pumpkin Spice Lattes that come out tomorrow? (Ok, so that’s not fashion but I’m counting down the minutes!!) I can barley contain myself as I drool through catalogs and wander through boutiques in a lust-induced haze.

Every year there’s that one item I MUST add to my closet (even if it means living on Ramen for the next month to afford it). Despite the fact that my shopping addiction has my closet filled to the brim, I always justify the need for a new piece by the “school shopping” tradition instilled in me since elementary school. You have to have some new stuff to start the school year, right?

So this year I will undoubtedly break down (most likely sooner rather than later, I’ll get more wear out of it!), rush into Express and snatch up their Leather Belted Jacket. It is so adorable it hurts. The soft faux-leather (which allows it to fit comfortably into my budget at $98.00 and spare the life of a poor, defenseless cow) is painfully cool and the chic knotted belt around the waist that gives it that feminine twist. And you can’t get any more on point with the fall trends; it basks in all of its bad-ass glory with silver-zippered pockets.

The best part? It can be worn with absolutely anything! I can slip it on with a pair of dark wash skinny jeans for an instantly put together party look or add some edge to one of my girly summer dresses by throwing it over top and slipping on some tights and flats for class.

I can already smell the fresh (p)leather hanging perfectly in my closet, and if I cut my Starbucks Latte out for about 2 weeks (after the initial pumpkin treat, obvi) I’ll rack up enough dough to buy it!

While there is nothing better than hanging some brand new clothes into your over-stuffed closet, we’re in a recession– and spending your money on another pair of jeans is just a waste. You’ve got plenty to work with already, and we’re here to show you how to do so in a fun, new and fashionable way.

Last week we showed you how to re-think an oversized sweater and this week I’m going to show you just how perfect a cardigan can be for any girl and any occasion.

Even though the word “cardigan” conjures up images of grandmothers, the 1950s/1960s, librarians, and overly-preppy girls, this piece does not get enough credit for being able to completely change the vibe of your outfit, no matter your sense of style.

Since fall is just around the corner (I know–summer passes by faster every year, an unfortunate truth for my overly-pale skin), the weather will be cooler and the cardigan will be a great staple piece for any occasion. I have compiled six general ways in which you can totally rock that cardigan your mom bought you that has been hanging in the back of your closet so you look stylish and put-together for class, or even for a night out:

1) Debulk a heavier cardigan with a stylish belt.

Chances are, somewhere in that wardrobe of yours you have a longer, coat-like cardigan that is on the heavier side. To look less like a hobo and more svelte (which can be hard for all of us sometimes), try topping the cardigan with a waist-cinching wide leather belt. This outfit is very cute over jeans, leggings, or tights, and is super easy when you’re running late and need to throw on clothes fast.

2) Get creative.

OK, I’ll be the first to say that I am definitely not a do-it-yourself, crafty kind of gal, but adding your own bit of spice to a cardigan is a cinch. Cardigans with detail can retail at high prices, so if you have a simpler cardigan that you want to liven up a little, try embellishing with a jeweled brooch (this also can double as a way to close the cardigan if it’s a little big). Or, if you are adventurous and somewhat skilled at sewing, you can also attach a strip of ruffled fabric from a local craft store to the neckline to add expensive-looking detail.

3) Accessorize a simple cardigan with a fun scarf.

Chances are, if you do wear cardigans on any regular basis, many of you wear them to the office for a put-together office-casual look. Instead of wearing your regular pretty necklace, try a patterned or detailed scarf! I can’t help but think of the sexy, stylish women in Paris when I see this combination.

4) Don’t be afraid to play up a bright-colored cardigan, regardless of the month.

Who said fall or winter have to be boring color-wise? While the basic black cardigan IS a total must-have because of its versatility, don’t hesitate putting on a cheerfully bright cardigan. This can transform an otherwise neutral/safe outfit into something more spectacular. Think of it almost as an accessory– black top, black skinny jeans, with a brightly-colored cardigan and killer shoes (it’s like the sexy librarian meets the rock star… Men, you’re welcome!).

5) Rock it retro.

Like I said, cardigans conjure up images of women from the 1950s and 1960s–but who said this is a bad thing? With Mad Men gaining popularity and designers enjoying retro styles, you are in luck with pulling this getup through and through. Pair a cardigan with 50s or 60s-reminiscent dress. If you want to indulge your old-school side but don’t have a dress like this, there are plenty of affordable ones popping up at places like Forever 21 or even the local thrift store (you’ll feel so original!).

6) Bling it up.

If you have an embellished cardigan (or you are a DIY queen and wanna do it up yourself), pairing it with a metallic skirt or skinny jeans with bling-y earrings is the perfect look for a night out or classy alternative for a party. It’s sexy without the slutty, which is the perfect combo.

These are just a few ideas of the possibly endless amount of ways to wear a cardigan, so let your imagination go wild!

Adding a belt is one of the easiest ways to update an outfit. Instead of going out and spending your money on an entire new ensemble, pick up a fun, stylish belt that works with something you already own! In the warmer part of the year, a belt can give a new silhouette and add a splash of personal style to dresses. When it cools off, belts are great for emphasizing your curves which are hiding under all those warm layers.

Here are some belt trends to try for under $25:

Wide belts work well with dresses. For example, this wide belt would instantly make a basic, solid colored dress more stylish. Even more, it will cinch you at the waist, adding instant shape to a shapeless dress. It’s pretty much magical.

Woven Cord Waist Belt – $8.99 at Charlotte Russe
Tunic Tee Dress – $29.50 at Express
Georgina Shoes – $50 at Rampage

Bright skinny belts can also be extremely flattering and add a more interesting twist to a very basic look. For a simple, classic look, pair one with a solid cardigan and jeans.

Fab Skinny Braided Belt – $3.50 at Forever 21
Lightweight V-Neck Cardigan – $24.50 at Old Navy
Stella Bootcut Jeans – $49.50 at Express

Studded belts have become very popular lately. They can add some edge to a more feminine look, or make something basic more exciting. Whatever you pair this with, your look will be instantly transformed from basic to fierce and who doesn’t want to look fierce?

Pyramid Studded Belt – $9.99 at Charlotte Russe
Bobi Supreme Jersey Pocket Dress – $39 at Revolve Clothing
Woven Platforms – $29.99 at Charlotte Russe

If you’re picking a belt that really stands out, make sure that it remains the focus of your outfit. That means no oversized bling or crazy prints! However, a more basic belt can easily pull together any outfit, simple or super trendy, new or made up of the fabulous things your closet already holds.

For more fashion tips, follow me on Twitter or read my blog!

2008 was an interesting year for fashion. Gone (thankfully) were the maternity tops of 2007, replaced by blasts from the past inspirations from the 20s through the days of our best pals on Beverly Hills 90210. We saw everything from the mom-jean to the 90s flannel button down. Some of it was fab, and some of it… not so much. So, let’s take a look at this year’s fashion highs and fashion oh-hell-no’s.

Because without the crap we can’t appreciate the couture.

Here are my top 5 fashion must-haves from 2008:

The High Waist

Sure we spent years trying to get people to stop wearing them only to bring them right back in, but let’s face it: we should be thankful that we don’t have to look at butt cracks and muffin tops a day longer. These pants look good on just about everyone… as long as they aren’t acid washed…or paired with a denim jacket.

The Vintage Scarf

There is something about Hollywood starting trends of cold-weather wear in warm weather regions that seems to catch on like hot fire. First we saw Uggs popularity soar back in 2003 with stars in shorts and boots trudging around LA. This year it was the scarf that made its way to the West Coast. Everywhere you turned, there was Jessica Alba in another fabulously printed scarf. These colorful scarves spruced up wardrobes, covered hickies (for those of you who still get them), and made any drab outfit instantly chic.

The Plaid or Gingham T

I was admittedly resistant to this trend at first. After all, my brothers wore these with hiking boots and Cavariccis to high school back in 1996. I didn’t like them then and I didn’t think I would like them now. Until designers – from the Couture to Forever 21 – made them tailored and colorful and so. freakin. cute, especially when tucked into a pair of those mom jeans I’ve come to love so much.

The Belt

Whereas 2007 was all about hiding that belly under too-big tops, 2008 brought us the cinched waist. Thank you, fashion peeps of the world! Now everything – jackets, dresses, tops – come paired with a belt for an instantly chic and flattering look. The best part: you can take all those maternity shirts from last year and glam ‘em up instantly with this year’s hottest accessory. And if by chance you get knocked up? Just remove that belt and, Viola!

Bright Colors

The little black dress was obsolete this year with the addition of bright colors and jewel tones. Seriously, everywhere you walked looked like a gay pride parade! You name your favorite Crayola crayon color and I will find you a shirt, dress and pair of skinny jeans in that hue.

The Oh-Hell-No Looks of 2008:

One-Piece Jumpers

I don’t care if Rhianna rocked them; they look good on no one. Unless, of course, you are a fan of the camel toe.

Leather Leggings

Leggings as pants can be tricky when not worn in a flattering way. Add the fact that they are leather and you have yourself a recipe for disaster. Leather leggings make women look like they are walking on lumpy sausages. Does that sound even remotely sexy to you? I didn’t think so. These bad boys are never flattering. Not ever. Not even for a second.