By
Kori Ellis
Monday, August 31, 2009, 05:40 AM
Category:
Especially for Women
Many times when you think of casual clothes, baggy sweaters and worn jeans come to mind. But that doesn't have to be the case - your casual wardrobe can be comfortable yet stylish too. Today, we have a look at how to dress casual chic.
The key is to find effortless pieces that you can just throw on and head out the door. Dresses that slip on over the head are perfect - just add a pair of simple sandals and be on your way in no time.
This T Tahari dress is a fantastic choice. This silk dress is perfect for a party if you dress it up with high heels and bold jewelry. But it can also be a mainstay in your casual chic wardrobe. Its pullover style makes it easy to wear and its knee-length cut makes it appropriate for most occasions. And right now, this dress is marked down from $158.00 to just $49.99 at Macy's. Another pullover dress that you'll really love is this Calvin Klein ombre dress. The beautiful coloring and simple style make it ideal: it's on sale for just $47.40!
Flat shoes are essential to a casualchic wardrobe but flat doesn't mean they should be sneakers. You can choose anything from loafers (such as these loafers by Enzo Angiolini for $39 off at Piperlime), flat sandals or even flat boots for fall.
If you love your jeans but don't want to wear basic t-shirts, look for tops with ruffles, pleats and other feminine touches instead. Again, select pullover styles rather than button-up shirts. Who has time to waste buttoning buttons!?
This pretty purple Apostrophe sleeveless top is just $5.99 at Sears. This belted silk tunic is also a fantastic option and it's half off at Calvin Klein.
Calvin Klein has a variety of other cute tops that you'll love, such as this
Paint Stroke Print Tank Top ($23.40) or this bullet pleated top ($14.40) in brilliant blue.
Finish off your casual chic look with a roomy handbag. Pick a bag that's big enough to carry all your necessities but not so large that it weighs you down. Here are three choices that you'll adore:
-- Kori
Image: istockphoto
By
Kori Ellis
Wednesday, August 26, 2009, 05:53 AM
Category:
Especially for Women
Fall is almost here! Today, let's talk about the patterns and textures that are popular in fall fashion.
Of course, we all know about suede boots and tweed coats but here are some other great textures and prints for autumn.
Plaid
Plaid isn't just for lumberjacks. This fall, look for plaid in pretty dresses and silky tops. Right now you can get this plaid shirtdress for 45% off at Macy's. It's just $35.20 and comes in sizes S-XL. Pair it with pumps at the office or with your favorite knee-high boots and tights on the weekend. Also keep a look out for plaid shoes and hats.
Floral Patterns
Don't think that floral prints will fade away with the summer sun. Darker florals are popular throughout fall. Look for florals in shades of cranberry red, chocolate brown and beautiful purples. This purple floral jacketed dress from JC Penney is a fabulous choice. It's just $29.99 right now on significant discount. But be sure you don't overdo it when wearing florals. The best way to avoid this is to couple floral prints with other pieces in a solid shade in the same color scheme.
Snake Prints
It's safe to say a real python handbag is out of our everyday price range - I've seen some designer bags for several thousand dollars. But that doesn't mean we can't get into the exotic skin trend. Look for snake print embossed handbags this season, like this hobo bag that's just $8.74 at Target in a black and white snake print.
Romantic Ruffles
Ruffles and pleats are romantic and oh so feminine. This season, look for ruffles everywhere from shoes to hats and everywhere in between. We have some cool deals on ruffled tops available right now.
Wear ruffled tops and dresses with Mary Jane pumps and add a "Gossip Girl"-style headband to finish off your flirty, feminine look.
Also: don't be afraid to mix textures and patterns this fall. A chenille sweater and tweed handbag or shoes flow together nicely. A leather bomber jacket and preppy plaid pumps is a nice contrast in style that can also work well for you.
-- Kori
By
Kori Ellis
Thursday, August 20, 2009, 05:45 AM
Category:
Especially for Women
When the weather changes, your skin's needs change too. With cool, dry fall weather, you will need to change your makeup and skincare routine to keep your skin looking its very best.
Go Heavier
The light moisturizer you used in the summertime may not be heavy enough for cooler weather. Be sure your skin is getting enough moisture and vitamins. Use a vitamin-enriched moisturizer everyday before applying makeup and then look to a thicker cream for night. You can choose from any one of three free gifts with purchase at Yves Rocher: Riche Creme Wrinkle Smoothing Day Creme, Your Age Solution Day Cream or All Over Comfort Cream with Pure Calmille.
Don't Skip the Sunscreen
Just because the sun is hiding behind the clouds doesn't mean it can't damage your skin. Always wear sunscreen - no matter what the weather - to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. Get a two-in-one product like Sue Devitt Promarine tinted moisturizer, which provides SPF 30 sunscreen and sheer coverage all in one product. It's $10.50 off right now at Drugstore.com.
Shop the Sales
Get more for less of your favorite brands of skincare, bath and body products and other beauty items by heading over to Drugstore.com during their Stock Up Sale, where you can save up to 50% off now through August 28th.
Fall Makeup
If you are like most women, you probably wear less makeup in the summer compared to other times of year. This fall, create a sexy, alluring look by going a little bit heavier on the eyes and lips while keeping cheeks relatively bare.
Smooth out your complexion with a creamy foundation that matches your skintone and then add a dusting of translucent powder.
Start your eye makeup routine by applying a primer on your eyelids to keep your eyeshadow in place. Urban Decay Primer Potion is top-notch and it's just $17.00 at Sephora.
For eyeshadow colors, many cosmetics companies are featuring shimmery brown, gold and plum shades in their fall collections. Grey is hot in fashion and it's also perfect for eyeshadow too. You can use a pale, shimmery grey on your lids and accent the crease with darker charcoal color.
For evening, create a smokey eye with Tarte Peep Show: Smokey Eye Palette - it's on sale at Sephora for $24 (regularly $37).
For lips, put away the sheer gloss that you used for summer and instead use a deeper shade of lipstick. Mulberry, burgundy and blue-reds are all perfect for fall. Clinique High Impact Lip Colour in Sassy Spice is perfect for autumn. It's just $14 at Macy's!
Add a touch of pale, rosy blush on the apples of your cheeks to finish off your look.
-- Kori
Image: istockphoto
By
Kori Ellis
Tuesday, August 18, 2009, 05:45 AM
Category:
Especially for Women
When the weather cools down, it's time to pull out your sweaters, jackets and boots. Let's take a look at the hottest fall boot and shoe trends for 2009.
Knee-High Boots
Knee-high boots are a classic choice for fall. If you are going to wear these often, invest in a leather or suede pair with a low or flat heel for versatility. Knee-high boots can be worn with everything from skinny jeans and a slouchy sweater to liquid leggings and a mini-dress.
Cut-Out Booties
Booties (or ankle boots) featuring cut-out details such as open toes and sides are on trend this fall. They are great for transitioning from the warm summer weather to the cool days of autumn. Look for cut-out booties with 2 1/2 to 3 1/2-inch heels for comfort and style.
Over-the-Knee Boots
Add some drama to your look with over-the-knee boots this season. Boots that come up a few inches above the knee are being offered by a variety of different designers for fall. Before splurging on a pair of OTK boots, be sure you are really going to wear them!
Anything Suede
Suede pumps, suede sandals, suede boots - anything suede is trendy for fall. Instead of traditional black pumps, look for suede pumps in shades of grey or jewel ones.
Shoe Deals
Check out these hot shoe deals available right now, including bargains on fall boots and summer shoes to finish off the season.
Until next time...
-- Kori
Image: istockphoto
By
Kori Ellis
Friday, August 14, 2009, 07:00 AM
Category:
Especially for Women
Today, we continue our giveaways with some fabulous makeup from Rock & Republic. If you haven't tried this cosmetics line, now you have a chance to check it out for free!
We are giving away the following products to one lucky CheapToday reader:
-
Rock & Republic Lip Gloss in matte deep red ($26)
- Rock & Republic Blush in "Bedroom" - matte muted rose ($40)
- Rock & Republic Noir Eye Colour Trio ($65)
- Rock & Republic Gel Eye Liner in matte black ($24)
That's $155 worth of amazing makeup that can be yours for FREE!
The colors in the eyeshadow trio include three shimmery shades - pale grey (Chain Link), charcoal grey (Nailed) and purple (Tempting).
To enter the giveaway, just leave a comment answering the question, "What is your favorite beauty brand or store for great deals that you have NOT seen on CheapToday?"
Tell us the name of the store or brand and also why you think they are great. Your comment will automatically enter you into the contest to win the Rock & Republic makeup.
On Friday, August 21, 2009 at 12:00 noon CT, we will select one random winner from all the comments to win the prize. The contest is open to US and Canadian residents only!
DON'T FORGET TO LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS, so we can contact you if you win! If you don't see your comment published - don't worry, it's saved in our system.
Good luck! Come back to the Cheap Today Especially for Women blog soon for more shopping tips, bargain deals and giveaways!
-- Kori
UPDATE: This giveaway is now concluded. The randomly selected winner is ...
Lucie!
Lucie has been contacted via email and her prize is on its way. Thanks to everyone who participated!
By
Kori Ellis
Wednesday, August 12, 2009, 07:40 AM
Category:
Especially for Women
Botkier handbags are stylish, trendy and fun. Today, you have a chance to win a Botkier Stevie Satchel in chocolate brown nylon.
This is a perfect everyday bag for fall, featuring ruched exterior pockets, patent details and a lined interior. Originally priced at $475, you have an opportunity to win this fabulous roomy handbag for FREE!
Entering today's giveaway is simple:
You've seen some of the brands and stores our editors and correspondents follow very closely to publish the best deals on CheapToday.com each day - Calvin Klein, Macy's, Target, Sears, Victoria's Secret, Banana Republic, Gap, IKEA, Endless.com, Lane Bryant, JC Penney and many more.
To enter the giveaway, just leave a comment answering the question, "What is your favorite brand or store for great deals that you have NOT seen on CheapToday?"
Tell us the name of the store or brand and also why you think they are great. Your comment will automatically enter you into the contest to win the Botkier bag.
On Wednesday, August 19, 2009 at 12:00 noon CT, we will select one random winner from all the comments to win the prize. The contest is open to US and Canadian residents only!
DON'T FORGET TO LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS, so we can contact you if you win!
Good luck! Come back to the CheapToday Especially for Women blog soon for more shopping tips, bargain deals and giveaways!
-- Kori
UPDATE: This giveaway is now concluded. The randomly selected winner is ...
Mayi!
Mayi has been contacted via email and her prize is on its way. Thanks to everyone who participated!
By
Kori Ellis
Tuesday, August 11, 2009, 07:00 AM
Category:
Especially for Women
Some women avoid shopping for shoes online, thinking they'll never be able to find the perfect shoes like they would in a brick and mortar store. If you have avoided purchasing shoes online, you are really missing out - the internet usually has the best deals. Here are a few shopping tips to make your online shoe shopping experience easier.
Shop by Size
Nothing is more frustrating than going to your favorite website, finding the most perfect purple pumps and then realizing they don't have your size. To avoid the frustration, use the filter (on most websites) to sort by size FIRST. That way, you know you are looking at shoes in your size and available for purchase.
Only Shop Reputable Stores
Many people still fear the security of online shopping. To ease your tension, only shop at reputable, well-known websites. Here at CheapToday.com, we only pick deals from stores that you know and trust.
Check Shipping Prices
Before checking out, be sure you know the shipping price and return policy. Many sites offer free shipping options. If you are unclear of the return policy, read the fine print and if necessary, call the customer service line with questions.
Comparison Shop
Just like at the mall, you should comparison shop online. Once you find a shoe that you like at one store, search in Google (or your search engine of choice) for the shoe name to find which other online retailers carry it. Compare prices (including shipping) to locate the best deal.
Now that we have some guidelines for online shoe shopping, let's shop. Here are some awesome deals on shoes available right now!
For the Gym
For Casual Wear
For the Office
For a Night Out
--Kori
Image: istockphoto
By
Kori Ellis
Friday, August 07, 2009, 07:24 AM
Category:
Especially for Women
As summer is winding down, your hair is probably a bit dry and damaged from sun, chlorine and salt water. To get it healthy and back into shape, you need to treat your hair well with nourishing, hydrating ingredients. Today, we have an opportunity for you to win some amazing products to help revive your lustrous locks!
One lucky CheapToday reader will receive three hair care products:
Naat Treatment Moisturizing Shampoo
Restores hair’s natural sheen and softness while Cupuaçu Butter and Keratin gently clean and restore resilience to wavy, curly or very curly hair. Price $7.49
Naat Treatment Conditioner
Gives hair the extra conditioning that it needs by restoring elasticity and softness to curly or frizzy. Price $7.49
Naat Treatment Intensive Mask
For deep conditioning, Naat Treatment Intensive Mask penetrates the hair shaft to restore strength and moisture in order to revitalize wavy, curly or very curly hair. Price $7.99
All of these items are available at nunaat.com.
nuNAAT offers a line of products specially designed to combine the latest available technology with a variety of natural ingredients, mainly found in the Amazon Forest.
The natural ingredients used to make nuNAAT’s products are obtained through ecological processes and sustainable development, which helps to generate income for the local communities and contributes to the forest’s preservation. nuNAAT works closely with local Amazonian communities and partakes in ecologically friendly production practices, supporting sustainable development.
Additionally, the winner will also receive Tight Curves (Retail Value $59.95). Tight Curves is available at bodywellnutrition.com. It's a protein product designed specifically for women.
This heart-healthy product delivers 14 grams of high quality protein, with only 4 carbs. It also includes calcium for bone health, a concern of women susceptible to osteoporosis, and Black Cohosh and St. John’s Wort for mood management, a concern of women dealing with hormonal changes.
To enter the contest, leave a comment here and tell us what you did for fun this summer. Also be sure to include a valid email address in your comment so we can contact you if you win.
Your comment will automatically enter you into the contest.
On Friday, August 14, 2009 at 12:00 noon CT, we will select one random winner from all the comments to win the prize. The contest is open to US and Canadian residents only!
Good luck! Come back to the CheapToday Especially for Women blog soon for more shopping tips, bargain deals and giveaways!
-Kori
UPDATE: This giveaway is now concluded. The randomly selected winner is ...
Courtney, who commented:
We mainly did work around our home, but we had a lot of fun playing with our daughter in her little pool! Last year she didn't like it so it's fun to see her having so much fun this year! Thanks for the giveaway!
Courtney will be contacted via email and her prize will be on the way shortly. Thanks to everyone who participated!
By
Kori Ellis
Thursday, August 06, 2009, 07:14 AM
Category:
Especially for Women
Let's face it: most of us don't have unlimited funds to spend on clothes - that's why we hang out here at CheapToday. But just because you aren't a trust fund baby, that doesn't mean you can't have a fabulous wardrobe. By following these simple tips, you can look chic without breaking the bank.
Shop the Sales
This one is a no-brainer. Whenever you go shopping, head to the clearance racks. It might take a bit longer to find what you are looking for but you can get some amazing deals. Here's a prime example: years ago, I was invited to a glitzy red carpet event in Los Angeles. As a 20-something, I didn't have formal gown. After spending all day at the mall, frustrated and wondering if I should just charge something expensive to my credit card, I finally came across the perfect dress: a gorgeous wine-colored velvet halter gown. There was only one on the rack with no size tag. I went into the dressing room and va voom! - perfect fit. I glanced at the tag. Original price: $998. Sale price: $598 $298. I headed to the checkout counter with a smile on my face. But things got better. The sales woman said, "Oh, this dress is 60% off the sale price on clearance!"
The total including tax was under $200! I almost fainted.
If you're looking for a hot summer party dress on sale, check out this pleated scoop neck dress from Nordstrom, marked down from $238.00 to $158.90! Another great buy is this velvet tube dress discounted from $174.00 to just $43.00 at Neiman Marcus.
Invest in Classics
Though it's tempting to follow all the latest trends, you need to start with the basics. Pick pieces that you can mix and match. There are things that every woman should have in her wardrobe: little black dress, cashmere cardigan, relaxed jeans, peacoat, leather handbag, etc. These are pieces that will never go out of style and you can wear year in and year out. And if you have to spend a little more for quality -- do it! You can get this cashmere long cardigan on sale at Banana Republic right now. It was originally $275.00 but it can be yours for just $89.97. You can also get this open wrap cardigan from Target for only $8.74!
Shop Out of Season
In the heat of summer, look for fall coats and boots. You can get amazing deals on clothes when you shop out of season. Though buying your swimsuit in December might seem crazy at first, it really pays off. Here are a couple hot deals on fall coats that you shouldn't miss:
More Savings
When shopping online, be sure to check shipping costs. Many websites offer free or discounted shipping with a minimum order. You probably won't be able to find every piece you want online so head to the streets where you can find treasures in thrift shops. One of my favorite things to buy "vintage" is jewelry. You can find gorgeous heirloom pieces at a fraction of their value. Also, be sure to sign up for all your favorite stores' email alerts so you can find out in advance when the sales are happening. And finally, check Today's Deals at CheapToday every day!
Until next time...
--Kori
Image: sxc.hu
By
Kori Ellis
Monday, August 03, 2009, 08:00 AM
Category:
Especially for Women
No matter how crazy it seems, right now is a great time to shop for coats and other outerwear. Here in Texas, we are having scorching days of 100 degrees. So it's hard for me to imagine trying on a coat at the store - that's why I'm shopping online instead. :)
In the middle of the summer, you can get some terrific deals on last year's coats as well as some bargains on the latest new fashions for fall. If you shop smart, you can get all your fall and winter outwear before September rolls around.
The swing coat will always be in style every fall. Right now, you can get this hooded swing coat from JC Penney for 80% off. Originally $250.00, it's all the way down to just $49.99. What a crazy deal! Shop fast because sizes are limited.
Another classic style is the trench coat. This fall, you'll see trenches in every fabric and color imaginable, from the Burberry check trench to bright purple nylon coats. I prefer something a little more neutral like this grey trench coat from Calvin Klein. At 50% off, this coat is priced at just $84.00 and you can wear it with just about anything.
My favorite deal on coats this week is this gorgeous Calvin Klein funnelneck leather peacoat. At $448.00, it would be a splurge. But it's half off right now at just $224.00 - too good to pass up.
Fall outerwear is more than just coats. You should also look for anything cashmere on sale. At Macy's, their Charter Club cashmere scarves are marked down from $78.00 to just $22.99 each! You can find them in beautiful solids as well as fun plaids. Target has a cashmere turtleneck on clearance. Originally $49.99, it's now just $12.49. That's right...twelve bucks for a cashmere sweater!
At Piperlime, keep a look out for deals on boots. Sizes are limited, but they have some cute EMU Australia winter boots on sale. Regularly $90.00, they are half off at $44.99. These boots are lined with plush sheepskin and feature a lace-up front. Steve Madden is having a clearance on boots too, from dressy tall boots to more casual styles. If you love UGGs, head to Nordstrom where you can get the UGG Cardy Classic boots for 30% off through August 3rd. These coveted knit boots come in seven colors and are a must-have for many fashionistas.
Just remember, even if you are spending your days lounging by the pool, there are hot deals on coats, boots and outerwear to be had. Check the clearance racks, "final" sales and of course, everyday here on CheapToday.
--Kori