You only have a few days left to enter our Urban Outfitters gift card giveaway! We pick the winners on Monday, so take two seconds and enter right now – it’s incredibly simple and you have a good chance of winning!

We love Second City Style’s New York Fall Fashion Week Review – it’s a list of the trends we saw on the fall/winter runways and what you should buy right now to wear through fall.

Apparently, in Thailand, fake bags are museum-worthy.

Need to get rid of some old jeans? Donate your vintage denim to any Gap store in the US and get 30% off your next jeans purchase until March 14th.

You’ve probably already seen the new Alice in Wonderland film, but I bet you haven’t seen the original Alice movie, a 9-minute silent film from the 1930s! So cool.

Christian Siriano’s talon heels have arrived at Payless, and Racked NY took them for a test run…

How adorable is Nicole Richie, seriously?

The South by Southwest music festival is giving away a (totally legal) 3.5gb of music by artists performing at the festival. Download it here!

The latest celebrity clothing collaboration – Madonna for Macy’s.

Sororities are bad for body image, and can promote eating disorders, a new study suggests. Not sure if I believe this, but it’s certainly an interesting discussion topic.

There are so many hot trends for spring, but here’s a new one we’re kinda in love with: ribbons!

We covered this year’s best Oscar fashion earlier this week, so to balance it out, you must check out the worst Oscar fashion of all time. OF ALL TIME! So bad.

Why Balenciaga Blacklisted French Vogue! Scandalous.

In case you haven’t seen them yet, you must check out the photos of Alexander McQueen’s final collection. The man will truly be missed.

On a similar note? What made Alexander McQueen shows so different from the rest?

Zooey Deschanel is the newest face of Rimmel London. I have to say, that’s a girl who could totally sell me some cosmetics.

Opening Ceremony’s founders are SO cool. Watch this video and tell us you don’t kinda want to be friends with them.

Mmm, 50 classic bags, illustrated, courtesy of the LA Times. Can I own them all?

Refinery 29 offers tips on how to wear a sheer shirt.

Spring is finally arriving, so get inspired with Burberry’s Art of the Trench website – there’s TONS of street style eye candy plus great music!

The Gap… turned upside down.

This is so weird: there’s now an online “service” where some dude will dump your boyfriend for you. Yeah. I don’t know how they come up with this stuff either.

So cool: Viktor & Rolf Dressed Their Models on the Runway!

Glamour’s list of the 10 most glam wardrobe items ever is great reading and includes so many classic must-haves.

The first issue of Vogue Turkey takes fashion back to basics with an actual model on its cover and no taglines! What do you think of this basic cover in comparison to the ones we typically see in the US?

We know that pastel hair is a hot trend among celebs like Kelly Osbourne, but now pastel eyebrows?

Ripped, torn, and otherwise distressed denim is once again in style this spring. This season’s incarnation of the trend, however, is a bit different from how it looked in previous decades. Instead of giving off a rebellious or grungy vibe, spring 2010 ripped denim is all about looking sultry and seductive with a little bit of edge. If you’re dying for a trendy new pair of jeans, pick up some ripped ones, and follow our tips to rock them right.

General Tips on Wearing Ripped Denim

Pick a style. Ripped denim isn’t just for jeans this season! You can find distressed details on a variety of denim styles this season, from shorts to mini skirts to jackets. Pick your favorite piece and go from there.

Consider the occasion. Though some denim pieces (namely dark wash jeans) are usually socially acceptable for wear in dressier situations, distressed denim is very casual and relaxed, and NOT appropriate for a dressy occasion. While torn styles are great for hanging out or running errands, they’re not great going-out options. Also, if your style leans towards prim and proper, you probably won’t find ripped jeans appropriate for classroom wear.

Choose how much you want to show. As a general rule, the smaller the piece, the less distressing it should have. A pair of frayed denim shorts, for example, should be less destroyed than a pair of jeans simply because the cut of the shorts is more revealing. Slashed skinny jeans have been a celebrity favorite, but avoid wearing a slashed mini skirt in an attempt to emulate their look. If you’re ever feeling overexposed, layer! Try a funky pair of tights or leggings under whatever you’re wearing for extra coverage and style.

Spend wisely. You’re buying denim that’s already destroyed, so spend accordingly! Though ripped denim is adorable and gives your style a relaxed Cali-girl vibe, this is a trend that you’re probably not going to want to drop hundreds of dollars on. Feeling creative? It’s easy (and cheap!) to distress some old jeans you already own! Check out a great DIY tutorial here.

Keep an eye on placement. Notice where holes and distressed areas hit on your body. You probably already realize that a gigantic rip near your back pockets isn’t ideal, but also watch out for holes in or near the knees of your jeans. If you plan on bending down or being active, little holes in these areas can become BIG ones very quickly. Also, be careful when putting on ripped jeans! I’ve definitely accidentally stuck my toe into a hole and further ripped it on more than one occasion.

Outfit Inspiration

Distressed

Product Information: Splendid Oversized Jersey Tee, ShopBop. Unlock My Heart Necklace, Forever 21. Painted Denim Shorts, American Eagle. Pastel Studded Hoop Earrings, Fantasy Jewelry Box. Laredo Leather Western Boot, Delias. BKE Ribbed Tank, The Buckle.

Torn

Product Information: Central Park West Tristan Ruffle Top, Piperlime. Ciao Bella Cutout Leather Flats, Bluefly. Always Skinny Destructed Jeans, Gap. Cameo Sequin Headband, Miss Selfridge. I Love You Pendant Necklace, Monsoon.

Destroyed

Product Information: Full Tilt Boyfriend Tee, Tilly’s. BKE Jewled Cuff Bracelet, The Buckle. Teardrop Cocktail Ring, Zappos. Siwy Hannah Slim Jeans, Shopbop. Lucky Brand Havana Mosaic Scarf, Piperlime. Multi Stud Gladiator Sandals, Wet Seal.

Tell me what you think!

Are you excited to see ripped denim emerge again this season? Do you already own any ripped, destroyed, or distressed denim pieces? If you do, what are your tips for wearing them? Let everyone know with your comment!

While we may all love fashion on the runways, it seems like many college girls stick to the basics day-to-day in fear of looking out of place on campus. Sometimes I can’t help but feel like certain items just aren’t acceptable on a college campus (especially here, in the Midwest), which makes me sad. Of course, some of you fearless ladies wear what you want to class anyway, but on my campus, this seems like the exception instead of the rule.

So for all of you who, like me, wish that there was a more reasonable way to wear high fashion items on campus, I’ve created this Fashion Challenge feature. Each week I’ll pick a different item, (I’m open to suggestions from you in the comments!) something that is a little more challenging to style, and give you pictures of others wearing the item, resources for finding it, tips, and outfit ideas, so you can fearlessly wear it on campus (and maybe start a new trend) yourself. Today, the challenging item is slouchy pants.

You are probably seeing them everywhere: usually silk or satin, pleated, and tapered, slouchy pants are the new skinny jean. Wearing a pair of silk pants in daylight on campus may seem intimidating, but if you style them right, they make a statement–in a good way!

Tips and Tricks:

• Slouchy pants come in a variety of styles from harem-style to structured and cropped. They also run the spectrum in fabrics: from silk to satin, and even khaki. So don’t be afraid to try a few on before you find what works for you!
• Remember that if you choose silk or satin, they aren’t as forgiving as some other fabrics and can cling in strange places. Choose your undergarments accordingly.
• Slouchy pants can be dressed up, as Ms. Missoni proves above, but it can also be casual campus wear. Karla, in picture one, dresses down her silk trousers with a classic denim jacket. Looking for more silky inspiration? Check out Karla’s website: She wears silk pants on a regular basis!
• These trousers have a masculine feel, so don’t be afraid to add girly touches like Ms. Alba:

Photo Credit

• Slouchy pants are great for every body type. While they are narrow in the legs, they are very forgiving in the hips. Just be sure to pick a fabric that flatters your body.

Get The Look:

Product Information: Slouchy pants – New York and Co., White tee – Pacsun, Blazer – Forever 21, Heels – Piperlime, Nautical studs – Urban Outfitters, Gold belt – ASOS

Sticking to basics with a few eye-catching accessories is a great way to try something new while remaining in your comfort zone. Girly cut-out heels and nautical stud earrings give feminine touches to an otherwise menswear inspired look (above). Looking for something a little more bold? Try a silk jumpsuit with the same pleated and tapered features.

So, what do you think?

Are you going to try slouchy pants? Do you like the new silhouette? Are you reluctant to try new trends or are you more of a “go big or go home” kinda girl? Any suggestions for future fashion challenge items? I’d love to hear from you!

This is the last installment of our series on getting the internship of your dreams! If you’ve missed out on the other steps, read up on how to clean up your internet identity, how to prepare an incredible resume and cover letter, where to find fashion-related internships, and our interview tips, then come back to this post.

In this installment, we’re going to give you fashionable options to wear on interviews and to the workplace. These tips will focus on jobs and internships in fashion. Although many internships and jobs have more strict dress codes that require more conservative outfits, working in the fashion world means expressing your style and reflecting trends each and every day. A simple pantsuit doesn’t always cut it!

If you are looking for more typical interview and job outfit choices, read How To Dress for a Job Interview, Must-Haves for Interviews and Work and Outfits for Under $100: Business Casual on a Budget. For fashion-related jobs, however, read on!

Working in fashion presents a tricky dressing situation – although there are many funky trends to wear, you must always keep in mind that you are still in a work environment, so it is important to keep everything appropriate and looking put-together. Need help? Check out these outfits for inspiration!

Outfit 1: Trendy in Trousers

Trousers – Topshop, Tank Top – Old Navy, Necklace – Forever21, Blazer – Forever21, Shoes – Forever21

High-waisted trousers with a blazer are an instant way to be trendy yet still have a structured, put-together look. This outfit includes several trends, such as button detailing on the trousers, a tribal necklace, and a menswear-inspired blazer. The bright red shoes add a pop of color, which is perfect for spring. There is a lot of detail to this outfit, from the slitted shoes to the buttons on the trousers, which is important when dressing for a job or interview in fashion. Remember: your colleagues are fashionistas too! They’re going to be checking out your outfit!

Outfit 2: Neutral Tribes

Tights – Modcloth, Dress – Net-a-Porter, Bag – Piperlime, Jacket – Maruione, Booties – Forever21, Earrings – Asos

This outfit is a great interview outfit for spring. It includes a few trends like neutral colors and tribal prints, which shows that you are up to date on the latest looks. However, it is not overly done since each piece, with the exception of the bag and shoes, is also a basic.

Although the dress may seem a little too revealing for work, with tights, booties and a leather jacket, it is instantly transformed into a stylish interview outfit. You can even throw a sweater on as well for extra layering. Since this outfit is extremely trend-oriented, it should be worn in a more casual work place. For example, I interned over the summer at a marketing firm in NYC and the dress code included jeans, leggings and sundresses. This would have been the perfect outfit to wear!

Outfit 3: Pretty in Tweed

Linen Blazer – Forever21, Body Suit – Forever21, Necklace – White House Black Market, Tweed Pants – Forever21, Shoes – Dorothy Perkins

Glamour.com called tweed one of Spring 2010’s most wearable trends, and this trend is the perfect one to bring into the office. Combined with a form fitting body suit and an oversized light pink blazer, you immediately look professional while incorporating trends from this season. The Mary Jane-style shoes add a girly effect to the outfit, while the statement necklace makes everything pop without being too daring or overwhelming.

Outfit 4: Chambray Prep

Button-up – Evanity, Scarf – Topshop, Skirt – Alloy, Shoes – Kays

This outfit is also perfect for a less conservative, fashion-forward work place. It incorporates the nude and chambray trends seen on runways for spring 2010, as well as ever-popular leopard print, which always adds fierceness to an outfit. The button-up shirt keeps this outfit basic and conservative without looking matronly. I’d tuck in the shirt for a more polished look. This outfit could not be more perfect for working on a spring day in NYC or LA!

Tips For Dressing For an Interview (Not Just in Fashion)

- Dress for the job you want, not the job you’re interviewing for or already have. This is a life rule in my opinion. Dressing up makes you feel good, which therefore motivates you to be the best you can be. Plus, from the outside, it looks like you are taking control of your destiny and would be a fitting candidate for a higher position than you already have.

- Don’t go overboard with makeup, hair and perfume. Don’t use an interview to experiment with a new look, scent or ‘do. Stick to what works for you already.

- Keep your things wrinkle free! Ironing always works, but there are also great products out there right now (such as Downy’s wrinkle release spray, which my friends and I swear by) that only require a quick spraying, smoothing and a few minutes to dry.

- Make sure your shoes aren’t scuffed and your clothes are stain free. These are basic things to remember, but sometimes, in the anxiety before an interview, you can be a little frazzled! Try on and lay out your outfit the night before, and make sure to inspect yourself from all angles to make sure you look the best you can!

- Take out any piercings that may be a little too much. If you are interviewing somewhere where piercings are acceptable, then keep them in and show your true style! However, many work places may be turned off by piercings and tattoos, so use your judgment and go more conservative when in doubt.

What do you think?

Would you wear any of these outfits to an interview for a fashion-related job? If you don’t want to work in fashion, can you find inspiration in these outfits to help spice up your more conservative work-wardrobe? Do you have any more interview attire tips? Let us know in a comment!

Thank you all for reading this series! I’ve gotten such fabulous feedback from you guys and I know that it is internship application season, so I hope these tips have helped you all out! Good luck on finding and landing the internship of your dreams!

I ran into Tara this week in Italian class. She has a free-spirited style and she isn’t afraid to experiment with funky colors. Her lace up boots were a unique twist on traditional knee-high boots, and added that little something extra to her look. I really liked the different textures in her outfit and her use of my favorite neutral, black!

Who I Spotted

Name: Tara

Hometown: San Diego, California

School: CSU Chico

Age: 21

Year in College: Junior

Major: Interior Design, Business

Hobbies/Interests: I’m really athletic; I like swimming, running, snowboarding, backpacking, and soccer. I am also into diverse music and I love interior design and organizing things.

Describe your style: I think my style is uniquely ornate, colorful, and constantly changing.

Who/what inspires your style? I am inspired by people I come across and how they put together outfits. I like colors and patterns more than brands or symbols. When I shop, I first scan the racks for the colors I know complement my skin tone and then I focus on styles that I know look good on me.
I never wear white or gray.

Where do you like to shop/find clothes? I don’t like to exclude stores when it comes to shopping because I think every store has something that I could possibly add to my wardrobe. I am a huge sale rack shopper because my mom taught me how to “dig” and be patient. I’d rather spend more time shopping and be able to come home with more things because they were on sale.

Elements of Tara’s Outfit

1. A Unifying Neutral

Tara used black throughout her outfit to tie everything together. The black hat, vest, boots, and checkers in her shirt make her look cohesive.

2. Daring Accessories

Tara chose a hat with a flower and an interesting shape. Her bad-girl boots perfectly offset the feminine vibe of the hat.

Looks Inspired by Tara

Outfit 1: The lace-up boots are a key element to this look because they add some structure. In addition, lace-up boots are hot trend right now! Tara’s jeans also had really cool stud details that added some more edginess to her look. Here is a bohemian version of Tara’s look.

Product Information: Hat- Aldo, Wayfarers- Ray Ban, Flannel Shirt- Delias.com, Studded jeans- Kohl’s, Satchel- Urban Outfitters, Vest- newlook.uk.com, Bracelets- pimkie.com, Lace up Boots- allsaints.com

Outfit 2: This is a preppier version of Tara’s look for the girly girls out there like me.

Product Information: Vest- H&M, Button Down- Old Navy, Jeans- Garage, Betsey Johnson Necklace- Zappos.com, Clutch- desireclothing.co.uk , Vintage hat- Modcloth.com, Juicy Couture Bracelet- Net-a-porter.com, Lace up Booties- H&M

What Do You Think?

Are you a free spirit like Tara? Do you own lace up boots and if so, how do you wear them? Let us know with a comment!

They say good skin is the base of every good makeup routine, and it’s true: no matter how much foundation or powder you cake on, makeup will never completely disguise unhealthy skin. When your skin is healthy and glowing, any makeup you apply will automatically look 100% better.

Most of my posts have been about makeup, but this week I really want to emphasize the importance of using good skincare products. Contrary to what some believe, good skincare isn’t just about what you wash your face with—there are other incredibly important products that you need to use as well. In this post, I will list the top products I think every girl should have as part of her skincare regime.

1. Sunscreen

Aveeno’s Positively Ageless Daily Moisturizer SPF 30 – $20.49

I mention sunscreen first because I think regardless of her skin type, every girl MUST wear sunscreen daily. Why? Sun exposure is the number one cause of aging and damage to the skin. I’m sure many of you aren’t too worried about wrinkles yet, but it is absolutely crucial that you start wearing sunscreen now, while your skin is young, to prevent them. UV ways can do some mega damage to your skin.

Aveeno Positively Ageless Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30 is one of my must-have products. It’s great because it acts as both a moisturizer and a sunscreen. It doesn’t feel oily after application and it leaves my skin feeling soft and hydrated. Most importantly, it contains SPF 30, which I think should be the minimum SPF that you wear on a daily basis. I use this on my face and neck right after I cleanse every morning.

2. Makeup Remover

Neutrogena Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover – $7.99

Washing your face alone is not enough to remove eye makeup residue. That’s why I strongly urge you to use eye makeup remover to ensure that you get all of it off. For me, makeup remover is incredibly helpful after I’ve gone out to a party with my friends: a few quick swipes and I’m done. After all, leaving eye makeup on overnight can damage your eyes.

I am always amazed at how well Neutrogena’s Eye Makeup Remover works. When I use this product, my makeup, including waterproof mascara, just glides off my face. I also love how it doesn’t feel harsh on my skin, which is doubly important because the eye area is incredibly sensitive. In addition, it’s incredibly easy to use: just cover the top of the bottle with a tissue or cotton ball and flip it upside down to get the perfect amount of product.

3. Moisturizer

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel – $24.00

I’m sure you guys all know about this one: hydration is crucial to healthy, glowing skin. Whether you have dry or oily skin, facial moisturizer is a must-use product.

Clinique’s Dramatically Different moisturizers are some of the best around, and they make two formulas for both normal/oily and dry skin users. If you’re like me and have oily skin, I recommend using the gel rather than lotion formula.

Hands down, Clinique’s Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel is the best moisturizer I have ever used. I was incredibly hesitant to buy this product because it cost $24, but it is definitely worth the splurge. During the winter time I always suffer from dry patches, but this product completely solved that problem. After applying this moisturizer, my skin always feels super soft. However, I only use this at night because during the day I need my SPF.

4. Exfoliator

St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub in Gentle – $4.29

Exfoliating your skin helps remove dead skin cells that make your face look dull. I recommend exfoliating at least once a week to help brighten up your face.

I used to love St. Ives original Apricot Scrub, but I recently found that the “Gentle” version was a better option because it did not irritate my skin as much. You do want to be careful when choosing an exfoliating product because some of them can actually cause skin damage. This gentle formula has more of a creamy texture so it is not as harsh as their normal formula. I absolutely love the way my skin feels after using this product: it instantly looks brighter and healthier. Best of all, this product contains 100% natural extracts so you don’t feel like you’re smothering your face with harsh chemicals.

Your thoughts?

What are your must-have skin care products? Is there anything else you’d recommend every girl have as part of her routine? I’d love to know your recommendations!

Back in the late nineties, early 2000’s, I thought it was very stylish and interesting of me to wear a dress over pants. Unfortunately, upon further reflection, it looked dumpy and unimpressive, and certainly not flattering. However, this trend appears to be back with a vengeance, and the evidence is splattered all across the runway.

For the most part, I continue to disapprove of this trend. I find it unflattering and unnecessary – why does one need to wear a dress and pants? The ever-increasing popularity of leggings and tights has made this even more unnecessary. However, the popularity of a short dress or a tunic over a pair of slim-fitting pants (a la Rachel Bilson and Richard Nicholl’s runway above) is common and, I believe, still stylish.

As ever, the key is proportion. Although a flowing pair of pants and dress may fly on the runway, on the streets it tends to look sloppy, especially if your pants are on the less-fitted side. So ensure that one or both of your pieces is fitted. Also important is the length – a knee-length dress, a la my early teens, is not as flattering over pants as a mid-thigh number. The great thing about wearing a dress over pants instead of tights is that the dress can be shorter than you would usually feel comfortable wearing.

Check out my interpretation of the trend below.

Outfit: When It Actually Fits

Product Information: Tube Dress: Wet Seal, Skinny Jeans: farfetch, Lace Heels: Amiclubwear, Grey Boyfriend Blazer: Red Herring.

Thoughts? Feelings? Concerns?

I may try to rock an outfit like the one above, but besides that I am fairly set in my ways. No Melissa Joan Hart for me. But what about you? Would you wear this look? How would you wear it?

Let me know what you think below – sloppy or stylish?

With Fashion Weeks all over the globe coming to an end, there is plenty of Street Style inspiration to go around. Whether it’s still cold and rainy, or the winter chill is starting to thaw, I’ve found some amazing looks from around the web you can wear in any weather, be it hot or cold. After all, weather shouldn’t put a damper on your style choices!

Want to see the looks I came up with? Read on to see some inspired looks from some stylish folks around the globe!

Denim Doll

(Source: Hanneli| Necklace, Drape Cardigan, Denim Jacket, Dress, Shoes)

Model Abby Lee Kershaw certainly knows how to rock the boho-chic look. I love everything from her (hopefully faux) fur lined denim jacket to the statement necklace hanging around her neck.

To get a similar look, I first chose a cute tube dress in a bright yellow color. Simply grab a cardigan like the one I chose above, and then on top of that, layer on a denim jacket if you get the chills. Then find a necklace in a turquoise hue like the one I found above, slip on some ballet flats, like the red ones I chose, and you’ll be looking stylish and ready for spring in no time!

Buttoned Up

(Source: Facehunter| Jacket, Dress, Shoes)

This look is relatively simple, but somehow still manages to be incredibly chic. I love the long coat-tails on this girl’s jacket and I honestly cannot get over how cute those wedge heels are; I wish I could find a pair like them!

For my inspired look I tried to stay in-step with the colors of this outfit. First, I chose a cute tube top with ruffle details. Then I found a tailored coat reminiscent of the Beatles Sgt. Pepper’s look to layer on top. Finally, I found a pair of cute peep-toe ruffle heels. (Don’t worry, the heels are not too high- that way you can still walk around campus!) Like I said, it’s a simple yet chic look that you can wear to class or for a day in the city!

Floral Frenzy

(Source: Street-Spotted| Jacket, Scarf, Tights, Dress, Shoes)

My, my, this look is an example of perfectly balanced color harmonies (please excuse my inner art-geek coming out). I love that stripe of color at the bottom of her dress, it’s the perfect amount of peek-a-boo floral; meanwhile that scarf is a perfect complement to the jacket.

To create a similarly styled look, I first chose a cute floral dress. To dress it up, I chose a pair of heeled lace-up boots and a circle scarf in an emerald green. Finally to keep you warm, I chose a nice, simple blue coat and black tights. Not quite spring-appropriate, but certainly not overly wintery, this outfit is a perfect segway between seasons.

Cat Eyes

(Source: Facehunter| Sunglasses, Blazer, Button-Up, Flats, Jeans)

This girl sure has attitude, huh? I’m loving those cat eye ’stunna shades’ and that baddass attitude; it totally gives her preppy outfit a rebel edge. Can’t argue with that, can you?

To get a similar look, I first searched for a pair of Alexander Wang inspired Cat Eye Sunglasses- they totally set the mood for rock n’ roll chic. Next, I chose an oxford shirt and a pair of denim skinny jeans. Throw on a beige-colored blazer and ballet flats, and you’ve got the look down- now all you need is that “I-Could-Care-Less” attitude (that can’t be that hard, just pretend you’re in your accounting class).

Tip of the Hat

(Source: Facehunter| Hat, Coat, Dress, Shoes, Socks, Scarf)

While I searched for looks to post up for this week, I definitely noticed one trend- bowler hats are back in among the fashion elite. Whether or not I’ll be sporting one is debatable, but nonetheless, this girl certainly pulls it off in a perfectly adorable manner. I love her coat and how she plays with shape and color in her outfit.

To get a similar look, I first chose a very cute coat in a beigey-brown. Then I found this lovely dress with floral prints on the top and denim on the bottom. Grab some colored socks like the magenta ones I found, stuff your feet into some desert boots, wrap a scarf around your neck, and you’ll be good to go. All that’s left is that intriguing bowler hat. Whether or not you wear it is up to you, but with or without it, you will look lovely (as I’m sure you always do).

Thoughts?

In the spirit of Fashion Week I tackled some more fashion-forward trends (bowlers, cat eye sunglasses, lace up & desert boots). What are your thoughts on these trends? Are you going to be wearing them anytime soon? Which look did you like the best? Did you like my inspired looks? Whatever your thoughts, let me know in the comments! I love your feedback!

Fred Flare is pretty much the world’s cutest online store. There, I said it.  It has it all, whether you want a pretty dress or cute shoes or retro sunnies. Thankfully, all of their awesome products are available at the best-designed store on the internet. From bunny rings to iPod speakers to Pac-Man oven mitts, this store has everything you’ll ever want, and then some.

Here are three tips to make shopping online at fredflare.com even better.

Buy your gifts!

If some of you are new to Fred Flare, you’re probably wondering what kind of people shop there, as the store seems stocked with random goodies. So what’s the store good for?

In a word: gifts. From your BFF to your sorority sister to your mom to that-girl-in-your-English-class-that-you-don’t-really-like-but-somehow-got-invited-to-her-birthday-party, you’ll definitely find anything and everything you want. Best of all, most everything is relatively cheap, so you won’t be breaking the bank when looking for that perfect gift. Bookmark this site and make this your first stop when looking for any kind of present!

Check on sizes

Because Fred Flare stocks a whole bunch of different brands, clothing and shoe sizing can be tricky. They do offer a rough sizing chart, but that isn’t always helpful – unfortunately a lot of it is trial and error. However, FF will exchange clothes (for the price of shipping, natch) if they don’t fit. They also offer a number customers can call (877-798-2807) for questions. Definitely pay attention to this when shopping at FF!

Wait for free shipping deals

Shipping fees are possibly the worst part of shopping online. While some stores have shipping deals that come with launches of new lines or around the holidays, Fred Flare has free shipping at seemingly random times.

For example, this past weekend, Fred Flare offered free shipping in honor of Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland. Last year, they offered a similar deal for the premiere of Sliimy’s Wake Up video. Find out about these deals by signing up for Fred Flare’s mailing list or looking at Fred Flare’s blog, Flickr or Twitter. Next time, you’ll be able to buy your 36^th pair of Risky Business sunglasses while avoiding the $7.95 charge.

Thoughts? Advice?

As I’ve said before, Fred Flare has one of the best online stores out there and it’s definitely worth checking out. For those of you who have shopped there, what advice do you have for new Fred Flare shoppers? New shoppers, what do you think and live about Fred Flare? Tell me in the comments!

Versace’s Spring RTW collection for 2010 was immediately one of my favorites when it came down the runway last year. A wave of pastel pinks, bright yellows and detailed micro mini skirts gave off the quintessential Versace vibe, but with a new spin. The house has always been known for revealing, skin-tight clothing but this Spring, Donatella upped the class factor with blouses and suits.

Vivid pastels, geometric prints, baroque curlicues, short-short skirts, and slinky, sexy chain mail: Where else could this be but Versace? For Spring, Donatella Versace was telling everyone who went backstage that she’d been inspired by Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland…In their tiny pelmet skirts, jazzily printed dresses, and super-fitted suitings, the girls were all legs and glossy hair—quintessential Versace women (though, it has to be said, still quite a lot thinner than they used to be in Gianni’s day). That’s a powerful sight to see on any runway, but somehow none of it came across as too slavishly reverential or in any way vulgar. – Style.com

We all know that Versace designs are completely unique and one-of-a-kind. With that said, I truly believe that any collection can be translated into an everyday wardrobe. The trick is to capture the vibe and feeling of each look – the overarching aspect that inspires you.

Bright Colors

Versace is known for her use of bight colors every season and the spring collection was no exception. The bright and neon shades that came down the runway were definitely attention-grabbing but still managed to look wearable instead of over-the-top. A common color in the collection was bright yellow, seen on mini dresses, tops and micro skirts. Although most of us probably couldn’t pull of head-to-toe neon yellow (not that we’d really want to anyway), a pop of bold color is a great way to spice up an outfit.

Product Information: Long sleeve Tee – Gap, Sunglasses – Urban Outfitters, Knit Dress – eDressMe, Wallet – Buckle, Pocket Detail Skirt – ASOS, Bandage Skirt – Express, Silver Cuff – White House Black Market

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Resist the Bumblebee Syndrome. Yellow and black are great contrasting colors to incorporate into an outfit, but yellow and black head-to-toe clothing with a yellow purse and black boots? You’ll definitely be getting some bee comments.
• Choose your accessories wisely. A pop of bright color does a lot for an outfit on its own, so don’t go overboard with adornments.
• Be careful if you’re pairing two different yellow pieces together. Although some shades will complement each other nicely, others may clash. Try to liken the shade to another color – some yellows are more green, others are more orangey. Once you do that, you’ll have an easier time matching yellows to one another.

Sheer, Gingham and Checked

Ok, I know it sounds like a weird combination but just take a look through Donatella’s collection again. The looks are a mix of unexpected patterns and fabrics, but all of them are put together perfectly. A sheer blouse with a small print is perfect for both the office (with a pair of trousers) and class (skinny jeans and flats). But the fun part about the Versace collection is the versatility of the outfits for day and night wear. You just can’t go wrong with monochromatic shades.

Product Information: Ruffle Tank – Fig Leaves, Striped Skirt – ASOS, Trousers – ASOS, Suit Skirt – ASOS, Long sleeve Blouse – Forever 21, Purse – Tillys

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Don’t be afraid to experiment! Take the Versace look above – a structured mini skirt, a flowy blouse and a mix of patterns. The only way to achieve it is to play around with different pieces, so take a bunch of items into the dressing room and see what you come up with.
• I know Versace is the queen of skin-baring outfits – but take her looks with a grain of salt. I’m a big fan of the mini skirt, especially with Donatella’s fun colors and details, but it should be balanced with a long sleeve or loose fitting top. Think Hepburn, not Hilton.

Pretty Pastels

Donatella is known for her use of fun colors and in her spring collection, pinks and corals ruled the runway. With the mix of shades and the added embellishments, these looks could only be pulled off by young girls like us. Additionally, unlike the bright yellow hues above, light pinks and purples are much easier to mix and match.

Product Information: Color Flash Mini Skirt – ASOS, Sheer Layering Tee – Free People, Studded Wallet – Free People, Jersey Micro Skirt – ASOS, Sunglasses – Urban Outfitters, Color Block Mini Skirt – ASOS, Woven Clutch – Harmony Lane

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Don’t underestimate the power of a great statement-making mini skirt. Once you find a great piece, the combinations are endless!
• For those of you still stuck in the winter cold, pair a fun pastel top with a gray cardigan or shrunken blazer until Spring finally arrives.

Tying it All Together

Go back and take a look at Versace’s collection – the one that the designer said was inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Unlike other brands cashing in on the film, Donatella stayed away from the dark and somber colors in favor of pastels, neon brights and fun patterns. The looks that came down the runway were quintessential Versace and the epitome of young, fun, and fashionable.

What do you think of the collection? How would you make it your own and incorporate it into your own personal style? Each week my posts are inspired by the comments you leave, I love hearing from you guys and aim to bring you an article each week that you’ll love. Be sure to leave a comment!