I have a love/hate relationship with Pinterest. I’ll browse the site until my eyes become glued to a photograph of incredibly dressed fashionistas. I fall in love, then the hate sets in; hate that burns with jealousy over the fact that she is wearing those suede wedges and beautiful blazer, not me. I’ve found a few envy-inducing spring trend based outfits and recreated them with affordable pieces via Polyvore!

The cropped bustier/bracelet top is a sensational trend. It’s the perfect side dish to a gorgeous pair of distressed, dyed, high waist denim shorts. Cropped bustier tops are seen in a range of colors, patterns, and fabrics. I prefer straps for support, but either way this top/bottom combo will continue to trend throughout summer.

Get the look:

Ribbon Cut Out Bracelet Top, BANK Fashion, £18.00

Black Lace Shorts Handmade Vintage Bottoms, Etsy

6 Piece Rhinestone Bangles, Syleforless.com, $7.99

This is a perfect example of acceptable color-blocking. The pastels are huge this spring, and this bombshell has got it down. She pairs her light pink capris with a blouse and sweater, a stylish ensemble for those of you who are yet to experience the actual spring weather!

Get the look:

Peak Blouse Off White, Weekday.com, £40.00

MOTO Supersoft Skinny Leigh Jeans, us.topshop.com, $78.00

Linen Cable-knit Sweater, J. Crew, $34.99

Bangles, Dorothy Perkins, $27.00

I’ve mentioned the colored blazer before, and it’s back! I love H&M’s collection of hues, perfect for color blocking. While many daring fashionistas pair their pinks with teals and greens, this girl rocks a lace frock underneath for an adorably put-together look.

Get the look:

Blazer, H&M, $34.95

A-line Lace Dress, Dorothy Perkins, $44.00

Brando Clutch in Grey, Mimi Boutique, $40.50

One of my favorite trends this spring is lace bottoms. Change up your denim and khaki for some delicate lace. As seen above, stay stylish by pairing your bottoms with a bright pastel blouse and some minimalistic jewelry!

Get the look:

Blouse, Monki, £22.00

Lace Bottoms, Oasis, $72.00

Bangles, Nordstrom, $38.00

Beads, Forever 21, $7.80

Aztec prints are becoming the pattern of spring. These shorts are refreshing in the fact that they take the focus away from the top, accentuating long, tanned legs. Pair your blouse with a pair of Aztec printed shorts and a tote for Boho-chic attire.

 Get the look:

Top, Mango, £39.99

MOTO Aztec Hotpants, topshop.com, $64.00

Black Large Croc Flap Tote, Dorothy Perkins, $59.00

Twisted Necklace, Mango, £15

 www.fashionablymeg.blogspot.com

After taking a peak at the incredible spring 2012 RTW collections on Vogue.com, I was inspired by how gorgeous the ensembles came together. Spring trends included a large amount of color blocking as well as certain couture looks that are surprisingly wearable. As high fashion and expensive the real runway looks are, imitating them with affordable pieces under $60 will make you regal-ready for any spring event you’ll attend.

Shoes $48 – owntherunway.com; Skirt $48 – riverisland.com; Top $44 – wallisfashion.com; Belt $29 – johnlewis.com

Gucci’s collection was color blocked to the fullest degree. As bright neons and pastels paired together has become popular, Gucci’s collection stayed elegant with pops of color matched with neutrals. To replicate this style, pair an orange Chambray tee with a white lace mini skirt. Add some solid blacks by accentuating your skirt with a black belt and some suede pumps. Read More »

It’s almost summer, and the days spent cramming for finals and living the dorm life are winding down. To celebrate acing your exams, go out with a second semester bang by clubbing with the girls! Often times I find myself annoyed while packing my clutch, because I have to remove and replace items because of the size. I’m not about to carry around a tote, but I’m an over-packer/planner. I need a lot of tools. For the complete party girl survival kit (camouflaged by an adorable Oginski Clutch via Aldo, $45.00) see below:

Walk Home Shoes

The savior to all sore, bruised and broken heels. Peel your feet out of those stilettos and unroll these babies on your way to taco bell. They are affordable, as thin as an iPhone, and come in their own little case, so no worries about the grimy bar bathroom bottoms pressing up against your lip gloss.
Footzyrolls, $12.99

Pocket Size Sanitizer

Okay, other than its obvious uses (warding off sickness, and removing the ‘X’ from your hands) it really comes in handy. Let’s be real here. We dance our hearts out, and that induces sweat. Clunky deodorants take up way too much room, even if they’re travel size. If you’re feeling a bit ranky under your arms, pat some of this onto your skin. The sanitizer removes the bacteria, taking away the smell and leaving a fresh scent.
Dancing Waters, $1.50

Mini Mascara

My favorite makeup tool is my mascara. Nothing looks prettier than long, defined lashes. By the end of the night, mine begins to run and clump, regardless of whether or not it’s waterproof. Stash a mini-stick into your clutch and reapply during your 5th trip to the bathroom.
Bold Eyes To Go, $28.00

Roll On Perfume

Roll on perfumes or samples are perfect for targeting small areas with fresh scents. Roll onto wrists and sides of your neck. The size is just right, and stays on longer than a small bottle of body mist. My favorite scent is Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue!

Bandaids

You love those leopard print wedges, but your ankles don’t. Stick a few behind your heel for a night full of fun and no friction.

Aspirin

Alright, I know we’re not old ladies, but I can’t tell you how many times I’ve wished I had just one travel pack of aspirin for the morning-after.

Pop-up Brush

This is the sweaty, poof gone birds nest, drunk hair’s best friend. It’s the perfect size, compact and comes with a mirror. What more could you ask for?
Turquoise Pop Up Brush, $8.00

Gum

As Sammi Sweetheart once quoted, “I don’t want your pukey-breath on me.” Exactly.

Mini-Tamps

Whether you’re on your monthly gift, or a poor, stumbling stranger is, it’s always nice to have backup. U by Kotex‘s brand is small and compact for your clutch.
U by Kotex, $5.15-16.00

Bobbie Pins

Bobbie pins are not only great for pinning your strays back, but I’ve made use of these babies for dress malfunctions as well. A belt is too big? Bobbie it. A bra strap broke? Bobbie it. Need your shirt to stay in place, tucked under that adorable high waist skirt?
Full Tilt 60 piece bobbie pins $5.99

Chapstick

I love Burt’s! Natural and minty, it keeps your lips prepped for that hopeful hookup. It’s also great for removing smudged eye-makeup.
Honey Lip Balm $3.00

It looks like a lot, but they can all fit snugly in your favorite clutch and can easily be purchased with a college-budget bank account. Keep these handy and rage on!

www.fashionablymeg.blogspot.com

The trends this season have been amazing.

Spring is always a fantastic time to renew your style, but for Budget Stylistas, an entire new wardrobe is not in the cards. Purchasing a few key pieces will keep your looks stylish and give the illusion that your closet is just as full as your wallet. The following looks are chameleons of the fashion industry, transformable for any occasion.

This $48 dollar H&M blazer is a bright, fun magenta; a colorful spring trend on a popular outer-layer. Read More »

Living in a college town typically makes partying Tuesday-Saturday an acceptable after school activity. This is thrilling and all, but the more I go out, the more I begin to realize how skanky the typical “going out” look has become. Sure, we’re all young with hot bods, but when did style become a free show of goodies? It’s not like I wear a maxi skirt and a zip up to the clubs, but some of these outfits are straight-up embarrassing. Luckily for you, our skanky 2 sexy machine is up and running–ready to clean up some raunchy ensembles. Take your look from “booty call” to beautiful without exhausting your college budget!

Plunging Necklines

Showing off the girls is fun, and going out is the right time to do it. However, boobage flying around while doing the cat daddy is not the classiest move. Go for a sweetheart neckline that allows a good amount of cleavage to show without going all willy-nilly. Even if you don’t have much to show, it cuts low enough to give the illusion.

Caged Sweetheart Dress $48.00

Sheer fabric is a beautiful detail that can be really flattering. But when you can make out a nipple, it becomes a problem. Choose the location of your sheer fabric wisely, preferably in low ‘slip’ risk areas on the body.

Peplum Mesh Dress $58.00

Bold patterned dresses aren’t very skanky, but they definitely make you look like a cheeseball. Nicki sports a galaxy printed dress that would be appropriate for…….actually, it’s not appropriate for anything. Class up this look with a bold tank dress that flatters and spotlights.

Leona Caged Dress $68.00

Alright, Tila Tequila is obviously the poster child for skanky clothes, but I guess she owns it pretty well. Lace has become really popular, but the whole bra under a layer of lace thing has got to go. Just because it’s the same color does not mean it’s acceptable. Layer the lace dress over a light slip for a classy, yet feminine look.

Nom de Plum by Ya Ya Swank Dress $69.00

I love cut outs. I think they’re a really chic way of showing skin. However, when the amount of skin showing rivals the amount of fabric, it’s skanky. Opt for a simple LBD with torso cut outs, a perfect hybrid of elegant and sexy.

Lucca Couture Cutout Dress $59.00

www.fashionablymeg.blogspot.com

Oh, the glamorous life of college kids. From the lectures, to the parties, to the late night library sessions, to the awkward Sunday morning walk of shames. This is our weekly schedule. This is how we roll through the best four years of our life! Here in the Midwest, awkward weather has set in. One week, 85 degrees. And the next week? 36. This has caused much style confusion throughout campuses as I witness athletic shorts and tees worn to the clubs, denim shorts and tall UGG boots worn to the dining halls and even sequin dresses and wedges worn to class (uh, did you think this was Bar Hopping 101 or are you wearing your outfit from last night?). Granted, I’ve been a bit off myself. My thought process is along the lines of “60 degrees…warm enough for a short sleeve blouse but not enough for denim shorts?  It’s sunny and slightly warm out but my classrooms are already blasting out the cold air, so UGG boots and a tank top?” Awkward.

As your Budget Stylista, I’ve decided to go over affordable, proper spring attire for the library, classroom and local bar. Hopefully that chick from Bio who wears a maxi dress and Converse reads this post. Read More »

Hallelujah. March 20^th marked the first official day of spring! I’m sure winter didn’t put a damper on the partying habits of weekend warriors or college girls that go hard; however, I will admit my style took the backseat when venturing out on the weekends this winter (what, this parka & pair of UGGS aren’t “clubby” enough?). Sure, some black jeans and a cute blazer did the trick, but I’d pick a bonfire pregame and a dry walk to the bars over getting slush in my stilettos any day. To officially welcome warmer weather, dress up your wardrobe with some affordable fresh party threads via Forever21.

Floral Print Dress $11.50

I’ve never been into floral pattern, but this gorgeous, simple dress stole my heart. Short sleeve, popping print, and thin enough to be worn in the sun without breaking a sweat. I went out and bought the blue & pink version (best option for blonde hair) and absolutely love it. At $11.50, you can’t afford not to buy this beauty.

Short Curve Stitch Dress $13.80

How adorable is this shape? This dress is one of those go-to super dresses; completely versatile with this incredible ability to go from day to night, be dressed up or down, and paired with basically any blazer, boot, or accessory.

Fitted Stripe Dress $11.50

Are you that girl? The one that shows up to a 9:30am lecture rocking this incredible yet simple outfit, grabbing the attention of everyone and forcing me to sit there and re-evaluate my XL t-shirt, old softball shorts combo? If so, props. If not, become her by check out this little number, perfect for color blocking and soaking up rays on your way to class.

Mesh Trim Mock Halter Dress $22.80

Of all ensembles, club-wear walks a fine line between sexy and skanky. Enough with the plain black tank dresses, and PLEASE ditch the sequined one shoulder; Stay chic with this mock halter dress, made with mesh, class and elegant detail.

Pleated Shirtdress $15.80

Perfect for any job interviewing, fashion show attending, date night Friday going fashionista. If you’re going out in early spring, awkward weather, than the light fabric but longer sleeves make for a perfect solution. This shirtdress is just begging for suede, auburn, lace-up ankle boots and an envelope clutch.

Enjoy the sun and look fabulous in your new array of spring styles!

[Lead image via coka /Shutterstock]

Just when you thought spring-like weather was finally about to peak and unfreeze campus grounds, designers are cranking out fall/winter 2012 collections like it’s going out of style. Collection after collection, trends take on new life and begin their journey to boutiques and department stores. Keeping up with the industry is like running a marathon; as exhausting as it can be, the effort pays off with results of glamorous ensembles and an appreciation for the art of fashion. As the budget stylista, I can tell you first hand that running the fashion marathon is no walk in the park. College budget babes need to put in extra effort to not only duplicate the trend, but to find prices that allow us to look chic and afford rent. Though trends come and go, shoes are forever fabulous. Less strict rules apply to the footwear, and thankfully you can pull them off whenever you’d like. Though I can only dream of one day acquiring a real pair of red bottoms, I’ve hunted down some Louboutin look-a-likes for all the dreamers out there!

(NOTICE: Due to the incredibly high prices of Christian Louboutin’s, prices are not mentioned to ensure that all college budget restrained viewers do not pass out due to shock or astonishment)

Real Deal: Sleek and fabulous. Appropriate for an elegant date night or a wild night out with your girls. Best matched with a solid color, preferably a slimming LBD.

Louboutin Look-a-like: A bit toned down, but still the sexy center of attention. Definitely enough bling for your buck! Aldo Shoes $80

Real Deal: Look but don’t touch. This season, studs and spikes are the mullet-dress of footwear. Seen everywhere, but happiest when attached to a nude pair of red bottoms.

Louboutin Look-a-like: Nude tone to elongate and flatter the calf muscles. These are the edgy hybrid babies of the asymmetrical and sharp stud trends. Vile Broccoli Fur (Etsy) $115

Real Deal: Give your feet a night off from those killer stilettos. These are not only perfect for that lace mini dress you’ve been dying to wear, but pair them with your favorite skinnies and leather jacket to accent a girly touch.

Louboutin Look-a-like: #Twinning! These are the CL flat’s cousin. Just as good looking with a bit of a different hue. If you’re desperate, spray paint the bottom a cherry color– it’ll be our little secret. DSW $44.95

Real Deal: Embrace spring, embrace a pop of color. Pay a little homage to Malibu Barbie with a classic pink pump.

Louboutin Look-a-like : Pink pumps with a RED bottom!? Sign me up. The shape is a bit less vertical, but a bit more practical. Your arches will thank you. Macy’s $79.99

Real Deal:  I’ve always thought wedges were the spring season of shoes. Sleek, chic, and look incredible when paired with any high-waisted maxi skirt, button up blouse, and  blazer finished ensemble!

Louboutin Look-a-like: Same style, different fabric, full wallet. Target $29.99

Nothing rings in the spring season like an assortment of colors and noticeable patterns! After New York Fashion Week graced the public with edgy trends and jaw dropping collections, the low-budget for high-fashion itch has returned. You all know the feeling; that annoyingly anxious feeling you get after seeing an ensemble you HAVE to have. It creeps up on you as you browse Prada’s new collection of shoes online. You fall in love, imagine yourself stepping into the club with the girls, immediately everyone’s eyes turn to you. It’s cruel really, after this moment of complete happiness, you glance at the price and subconsciously let out a sarcastic laugh.

Of course, the limiting college budget factor doesn’t help one bit. The only thing worse than watching Betsey Johnson’s designs strut down the runway and take a life of their own? Knowing you could afford a tank top…maybe…if you saved up for five months. Thankfully, top designers like the Baby Phat team have graced all college girls and young women alike with reasonable prices and beautiful looks. Baby Phat released their designs consisting of playful maxi skirts, dresses, lace tops and fringe tie rompers. The pieces give off a relaxing vibe; that one you get when you’re taking an exam and think to yourself, “spring break…a week away!” Rock these ensembles on the beaches of Cancun, lounging on the pool deck or strolling through your favorite boutique. If you’re one of the chicks that will be sitting in your own house this spring break while all of your friends from school go on exotic vacations (Me? Jealous? Nah…) than slip on a gorgeous Baby Phat ruched skirt and close your eyes.

The pieces: college budget friendly. The patterns and colors: vibrant and infused with elements of summer, just enough to get us through the rest of second semester!

(Zigzag Wrap Romper $59)

 (Fringe Tie Romper $59)

 (Eyelet Border Tube $69)

One of the most refreshing looks to come out of Mercedes-Benz fashion week? The tote bag! Spring is the perfect time to ditch that impractical, understated clutch you’ve grown so attached to. It’s been some time since you took your entire makeup bag out to lunch, so don’t feel bad tossing everything but the kitchen sink into a fab tote bag. For these past few winter months, we’ve been making statements while keeping warm with layers upon layers of clothing. As we start thinking about lighter looks, it’s the perfect time to play up a great statement bag. If you’re looking for a burst of cheery color and fashion with a conscience, check out DellaLA, a company that creates gorgeous products as well as helps the women of Hohoe, Ghana. Read More »