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Style And Fashion On A Budget

 

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Welcome to Style and Fashion on a Budget -  a DIY resource  for the savvy shopper.

 It is easier than you think to to dress with style, wearing the latest and best fashions on a budget.  

  

In tough economic times you can shop for great fashions at bargain prices and snag great deals on clothing and accessories.

  

Here you will find current information, features, tips and advice on the latest fashion trends to maximize  your  wardrobe without spending a fortune.  

Joan's Fashion Blog

on Dec 19, 09 at 02:22 AM

I purchased the most gorgeous Christmas sweater from a yard sale two summers ago. It still had the tag in and at .50 cents it was a real bargain. So I put it away with the intention of wearing it at Christmas time. It didn't happen, however, as I either stored it in a location where I forgot about it or couldn't find it.

December 2009, I decided that I would find may precious sweater and wear it  and so the search began. It was mid December, before I located the sweater and wore it to rave reviews at work. Everyone wanted to know where I  got it from and said how cute it was, and they really meant it.

I felt very special in my navy blue sweater with Christmas themed appliques, snowflakes and white faux fur collar. Christmas sweaters are making a big comeback and the so called ugly holiday

FRUGAL FASHIONISTAS

 Michelle Obama

First Lady Michelle Obama turned the world of fashion upside down by choosing relatively unknown dress designers. Had we not been  told that her clothing was purchased online from J Crew and her inaugural ball gown was designed by up and coming designer Jason Wu, all we knew was that she looked great .  And even though Jason Wu's evening gowns retail for between $3,000 and $6,000, still outside the reach of most working woman, the price was a far cry from the clothes of many popular designers.

 

Michelle Obama has shown the world that you can be fashionable on a budget, even for a First Lady. She is a fine example to all  fashionistas who have learned that fashion doesn't have to be beyond the reach of anyone even in tough economic times.  She also teaches us that we should not neglect our independent, neighbourhood designers, and online vendors who may have something different, fashionable  and affordable to offer.

 

 

  

BACK TO SCHOOL IN CELEBRITY STYLE FOR BOYS/MEN

Fashion and style for men and boys returning to school can be had without over spending on expensive clothes. Thes celebrities are fashionable in simple everyday clothing and copying their styles would save you a bundle. Look for simmilar items at lower priced department stores. You would look like a star without spending like one  and no one has to know what it cost you. Copy these celebrities' fashion style for back to school.

Comfortable and Cool

  

ZAC EFRON

Casual and hip

BRYTON STARS AS DEVON IN Y &R

 

 

 

by Cynthia Nelson

You can find a special pair of shoes for every activity and event that exists. We are inundated with everything from athletic shoes to stiletto heels. Finding the right pair of shoes to complete your ...More>
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How to tie a Scarf

The scarf is a wonderful accessory and a great money saver. You can transform the simplest of dresses or tops into a great fashion statement. Here is how.

SPRING SUMMER FASHIONS

SHOPPING FOR PLUS SIZE CLOTHING

Shopping for plus size clothing while on a budget is nt the easiest of tasks. However, it is not impossible to find fashionable plus size clothing at reasonable prices. Here are some tips.

Style & Fashion Trends

Are Shorter Hair Styles a Sign of the Recession?

Does the ressession have anything to do with the short hair trend we see today? It could be. It costs more to maintain long hair than it does short hair. Some experts seem to think that the length of a woman's hair is a certain indicator of the economic climate. Here is more about shorter hair styles.

The Cropped Bob & The Pixie Crop

Girls who cut the bob in 2008 and want a fashion forward look in 2009, are going to have to either let their hair grow out or go something more extreme. Enter the cropped bob and the pixie crop; both perfect for Spring/Summer 2009, but far more difficult to wear for Autumn (Fall)/Winter 2008/2009.

 

CELEBRITIES CHOOSING THE SHORT CUT

Victoria Beckham

 Celebrity+short+hair+cuts.jpg

 

 

 LISA RINNA

by Kimberley Heit

A designer shoe addiction can be a little damaging on the bank balance. However, if you are willing to go to the effort you can acquire authentic designer shoes for less then the recommended retail pr...More>
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by Hasnain Mohmad

Makeup can make you look stunning within seconds by accentuating your exquisite features. However, it is not necessary to visit a professional every time you want to make the most out of your looks. W...More>
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by Marcus Brooks

Shopping for less should be a law. Who really wants to spend two house payments on buying the perfect dress. A perfect dress knows little of price tags. The dress can be perfect for you. Finding that ...More>
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DIY Makeup

Celebrity make up artist on the Doctors, show some simple make up tips for a great look

by Ginger Kazay

Everyone loves a bargain; so, here are some tips to help you hunt down those bargains on-line:1) Misprints - I just got 4 of the 2007 George Washington dollars for $2.95 and that includes shipping and...More>
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PLUS SIZE AND SEXY

 

 

It is a fact. The plus size woman is a real woman and sexy to booth. And you can look sexy as well if you pay attention to how you dress, the confidence you display, and how well you show off your assets. It wouldn't cost you a bundle either. Lose the baggy clothes and dress to impress. Here are some tips on Being Sexy and Plus Size

 

 

TIE DYE CLOTHING - A fashionable, budget-wise clothing choice

Megan Fox wearing tie-dye top

 

Tie dye is an ancient art that dates back to Pre Columbian times. While for many, tie dye is synonmous with the hippie era and the 1960's and 1970's, it is an enduring art form in many parts of the world. READ MORE

 

 

SEW EASY

Sewing is a great way to save money on clothing and accessories. If you are on a budget, you can still dress with style by sewing your own clothes. No, you do not have to go to fashion school to know how to sew. Patterns are available to guide you through the process. As well there are numerous resources online with a vast array of sewing tips. Here are just a few easy sewing projects to start.

 

How to make an easy Skirt 

How to make a beret

How to Make a T-shirt Dress

How to make straps for a top or dress

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Designer Dresses for Less

 

Thanks to Karl Lagerfeld, things just got a little bit sweeter for shoppers with champagne tastes and a beer budget. Lagerfeld is the latest prestige designer to join the hot "masstige" trend, in which brand names like Isaac Mizrahi and Todd Oldham dream up affordable products for mass-market chains like Target. Lagerfeld, 65--the design genius behind Chanel, Fendi and his own Lagerfeld Gallery line--is hooking up with Swedish retailer Hennes & Mauritz (H&M). Read More

 

Can't live without your Calvin or Carolina, but can't bear shelling out the cash? We've done the research on where to get the labels you lust for without leaving you broke.  Read More

 

''I wish the magazine wouldn't encourage that kind of behavior,'' said Behnaz Sarafpour, after seeing an issue in which her $1,565 silk trench coat was shown next to a similar design for $159 from Jones New York. ''I mean, thanks for the lovely picture, but no thanks.'' Read the full article

Google Ads

The Best Back To School Fashions For Girls

There are many hot new styles this year for back to school. From the retro denim to layers, there is something for everyone.

 

Jeggings

Retro Denin Jacket

 

Billowy Dresses

Layers

How to Get Fashions For Free

 

Free fashion is available if you know where to look. In these tough economic times you need all the help you can get. There are hundreds of  free offers available to you and all that is required is a few minutes of your time.  Most offers are in the form of a contest or sweepstake but it costs you absolutely nothing to fill in a contest form. See How.

HOW TO LOOK LIKE A STAR ON A BUDGET

We see them on the time, on television, on Rodeo Drive, on the catwalk. Admit it, many of us secretly want to look as good as some of our favourite stars do, but we think it can never happen. Yes you can look as good are better. If you see a star style that you think will look good on you, go for it. It doesn't mean buying thousand dollar dresses. All you need to do is adapt the style. Here are some tips.

HOW TO DRESS LIKE RIHANNA

rihanna-3.jpg

Clothes: It’s obvious that Ri has access to the greatest designers in the world and thus, the greatest looks. While we all can’t afford to strut it in Gucci every day, we can still take cues from their look. Rihanna’s look is very distinct, so pick out distinct (read: avant-garde, not gaudy) pieces to stand out from the crowd. Instead of a plain top under your blazer, add a lacy top with a pencil skirt and bright colored shoes instead.

HOW TO LOOK LIKE A STAR WITHOUT SPENDING A BUNDLE

We all want to look our best, but the cost of beauty can be pretty high. According to a report published by American Salon, the average haircut for women ranges from $21 - $44 depending on the location and salon size. Additionally, manicures cost an average $20.53. Weekly manicures can drain your wallet by $1,068 a year

 

CELEBRITY FALL TRENDS FOR CHEAP

 

Because of the recent economic crunch, welcoming fall is not as happy as it could be for some fashion fiends. Watching your pennies leaves little to spend on the "It" gear of the season. Even still, you want to add to your wardrobe and stay current. So what's a fashionista to do?

BUDGET SHOPPING BASICS

 

 

Budget shopping is more than buying chothes, shoes or handbag on sale. So before you rush off tho the next sale or place that online order for designer clothes, here are a few basics to help you get started.

 

The Basics of Budget Shopping

Would you like to stretch your budget and keep your style? Who wouldn’t in these tough economic times and we have just the tips to help you do just that. Continue.

 

Spring Fashions on a Budget

Thinking that in tough economic times, shopping for new spring clothes is the last thing on your mind? There are was to get around this withour breaking your budget. Read

 

Cheap & Chic

When even the smartest style magazines start to refer to the "nouveau poor", it is clear that fashions and consuming passions are heading in a new direction. Read the Article

 

Prom on a Budget

Can you be cute for prom without spending a fortune? Seventeen magazine fashion director Gina Kelly says it’s all about making smart, affordable choices and sticking with your personal style. See How

 

Maternity clothes on a budget

You deserve to look and feel good throughout your pregnancy. It's not always easy though, especially when both your clothes and finances are getting tight. Read more

Shop in your own Closet

Consumers tightening their proverbial belts are saving money by altering clothes already in their wardrobes and not stretching their budget with pricey purchases. See how

 

 

 

 

Hot Summer Trends - The Rompers

 

Wearable rompers are back and you don't ned to spend a fortune to get into a pair or two. Read more about this hot summer staple, the Romper

Get some tips on how to wear jumpsuits and rompers

 

Prom Tuxedo 2011 Trends

A guide to making educated decisions when purchasing a tuxedo for your prom

Prom trends for Men

  • Most high school girls spend weeks looking through clothes racks at many different stores before they find that perfect prom dress. They s...
  • Prom photos can produce one of two reactions. Either sheer joy at the memories and fun that was had at that magical night, or nausea at ho...
  • A prom tuxedo is identical to any other tux on the market, the big difference and the reason for this article is to educate and help you make educated decisions when renting your tuxedo or purchasing formal wear for a prom. For starters, a prom is the short way of saying promenade.
  • Young men are comfortable wearing t-shirts and jeans, only few of them have already worn formal attires.
  • Prom is an extremely important time in any teenager%u2019s life. While much attention is put on the girls who will be attending prom, it is just as stressful for the young men who will be attending.
  • Look, some rules are meant to be broken, but you've got to know them first. Read more: http://www.esquire.com/blogs/mens-fashion/mens-tuxedo-trends-2011#ixzz1J3jBWKzB

Create a Poll!

2011 PROM TRENDS

 It is prom time again and the prom fashions this year as as diverse as any I have seen.  . Here are  links to some of the popular trends for 2011

 

 

 

 

by Elizabeth Kelly

Actress Sharon Stone once shocked the public when she attended the Academy Awards wearing a top from the Gap. The most shocking thing about it was: she looked incredible. Pairing her shirt with a full...More>
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Prom Fashions 2011

  • Prom dresses don%u2019t have to be limited simply to the latest style or fashion. There are so many dresses available, that each girl can find one to meet her style and personality
  • Prom season is here, and high school girls everywhere are gearing up for the biggest night of the school year.
  • We all know too well the current economic climate and modern trend towards a cleaner environment.

What to do with that Unworn Prom Dress

So you spent a fortune on that puffy prom dress. You had probably hoped to be the belle of the ball but it didn't work out quite that way. Now you have a long beautiful pricey gown to remind you of a Prom that never was. You have, however, made the painful decision to get rid of it but in a responsible manner. Well the good news is that you can turn that prom dress into something else. Here are top ten uses for an unworn prom dress.

1. Return it. If you brought the prom dress from a store with a liberal return policy, the tags are still in place, and it is in its unworn condition, you can try to return it for a refund or exchange for something you can use. If for some reason you did not make the prom due to a recalcitrant date or other extenuating situations, then buy something that would provide comfort and joy a want more so than a need, say an Ipod?

2. Luscious pillows: Which girl doesn't like satin and lace and nothing says comfort like satin lace trimmed pillows. I bet, depending on the length of your dress, you may be able to wrangle from 2 to 4 pillows. You don't have to be an expert seamstress for all the sewing projects here. All you need is a good pattern, the ability to disassemble a prom dress carefully, and follow instructions. Read More

HOW TO GET A FREE PROM DRESS

If you are about to graduate and feel you can't attend your prom because you can't afford a prom dress, there is help available. The following organizations provide free prom dresses, make up and accessories for those in need. Donations are graciously accepted.

 

 

DONATEMYDRESS.ORG

DonateMyDress.org is the first national campaign designed to encourage girls around the country to donate their prom and special occasion dresses to those who cannot afford to finance the costly experience of going to their prom, sweet 16, quinceañera or formal on their own. The site features a directory of local dress drive organizations across the U.S. that will enable girls to easily find out where in their local markets they can donate a dress or receive one. In addition, DonateMyDress.org contains information on upcoming local events, a photo gallery of real girls donating and receiving dresses, as well as links to content on prom and quinceañera planning, hair and makeup tips, and other worthy causes.

 

The Princess Project

The Princess Project promotes self-confidence and individual beauty by providing free prom dresses and accessories to high school girls who cannot otherwise afford them.

As the costs to attend high school prom soar, The Princess Project has made this tradition a reality for over 12,000 Bay Area & San Diego high school girls since 2002.

by Gail Kavanagh

Working in a charity shop, I see a lot of bargain hunters. Are they desperate and down at heel, buying out of date or worn clothing? No, indeed, they are smartly dressed working people, often wearing ...More>
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Fashion Week

Comments (1 to 10 of 12)

Kesha Coggins
Jun 12, 10 at 03:08 AM
I am so amazed. This looks great!
Brooke Shambley
Dec 13, 09 at 01:25 AM
Wow! You must haved poured yourself into this, amazing!
Olivia Bredbenner
Jun 15, 09 at 11:30 PM
Wha s fun site to visit...great layout..be back again soon Olivia
Lori Buttermark
Jun 14, 09 at 09:55 PM
OMG!!! This zone is phenomanel. You've put the fashion magazines to shame. Ratings should be off the radar charts:))
Jaimela King
May 09, 09 at 06:19 PM
Thanks for dropping by Cynthia, it is my pleasure to use your article.
Cynthia Nelson
May 06, 09 at 06:13 PM
This zone has good tips. Thanks for using my article.
Jaimela King
Apr 20, 09 at 03:09 AM
Great suggestion Carlie, as You can see I have now added a donate section.
Carlie Lawson
Apr 19, 09 at 10:32 PM
Awesome Zone, Joan! As a total fashionista this is one of my favorite topics. I have a suggestion for a #3 for "What to do with that Unworn Prom Dress" - donate to http://www.donatemydress.org which provides prom dresses to high schoolers in low income areas who otherwise could not afford one.
Jaimela King
Apr 06, 09 at 05:15 AM
Thanks Raven, I see you also have some budget zones I could link to as well.
Raven Lebeau
Apr 05, 09 at 07:59 PM
Great idea, Joan! I'm going to link to this zone on several of mine.

Zone Manager

Helium member since Jan 07, 07
Number of Zones: 13

Spring/Summer 2011 Fashion Trends for Women

Time to think about making space in your closet for the exciting spring and summer fashions. Here is an introduction to the exciting colors, fabrics, textures, styles and designs for 2011 

 

Biker Gal

biker fashion

 

Sheer Maxi

Playsuits and Jumpsuits

Clogs

 

Wide Bottom Pants

Tail Hems 

Wimbledon Fashion Week 2010

 

Wimbledon Fashion Week  June 28th 2010

Wimbledon Fashion Week: Day 1

 

Wimbledon Fashion Week Day 3

 

 

 

Mens Spring/Summer Fashion Trends 2010

Men's military fashions are back with more class taking its inspiration from the Second World War Era.

men's military fashion

In 2010, mens cut an style , masculine and adventure take the place of monocromatic and skinny.

 

Other Fashion Trends for Men

Men's Spring 2010 Fashion Trends

  • The Look: Strong silhouettes with a strongly futuristic bent
  • Seven Days in Italy: Your All-Access Pass to Spring 2010 Men's Fashion Week Looking beyond the catwalk, there's a lot the Italians can teach us about dressing like you own the place.

Women's Spring/Summer Fashion Trends 2010

  • Spring 2010 Fashion Trends: Women's S/S 2010 > Women's Fashion ...
    Oct 21, 2009 ... Want to keep up with all women's Spring/Summer 2010 fashion trends? Then make sure you sign-up ... Women's Denim Jean Fashion Trends for Spring/Summer 2010 ...
  • Emerging Women's Fashion Trends Spring 2010: Key Looks from London ...
    Key Looks from London & Milan Fashion Week for Spring Summer 2010 ... Permission to republish Emerging Women's Fashion Trends Spring 2010 in print or online ...

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