The Wannabe {of Style}

Happy New Year!!

2008-01-04T11:33:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year!!

Welcome to 2008, Wannabe's! I hope you all had the opportunity to ring in the new year in style, as my roommate and I definitely did. We threw a fantastic black and white party, too cute! How was your night?

As tradition, I made a few resolutions for the new year. There was the same, to eat less fast food, and something new. I resolve to drop "college student style" and pick up something of my own. Although I'd say I have a sense of style, I seem to leave it all behind when I come to college in favor of T-shirts and jeans. Perhaps it's because I'm in a small town, and shopping here is harder than properly pronouncing Givenchy. Alas, no more excuses. The fashion world is mine.

Did you make a style resolution?

All I Want for Christmas..

2007-12-10T22:51:00.000-05:00

..is a fabulous pair of slouchy flat boots!!

It's hard enough finding flat boots on their own, but add in the perfect slouch and gorgeous textures we've been seeing a lot of, and this search is near impossible.

However, there is hope! As one who is in total opposition to UGGS regardless of the time of year, I present to you an alternative. Behold, my list of amazing flat boots for amazing prices!

These canvas starburst boots are not quite as tall as I prefer, but check out that slouch! They're yours, from Urban Outfitters for only $58.00.
Hardcore! Ride in style with Alloy's $39.50 leather flat boot, pair with grey tights and a cute mini for New Years.

These $34.99 gray slouch boots from Target are absolutely perfect, I think I may actually head out today to see if they're as wonderful as they look online! Tuck your skinny jeans into these boots for an instant of-the-moment look.

What's better than the perfect slouch? Straps! I'm in love with these babies from Steve Madden, $103.96.

A few tips for happy boot wearing:
-Ankle boots always, always look best with tights! Switch up the usual black opaque and opt for a cool gray or (bonus!) purple instead.
-Boots can be tricky. If they are big around your calves, tuck skinny jeans into them.
-To offset a way-too-cutesy outfit, choose boots with a some serious hardware, like the Steve Madden boots above, and add a matching headband.
-If your boots are the focal point of your outfit, keep the rest simple so as not to overdo it.

You are officially ready to stomp out in style, so get walking!

I'm back! And with Serena style..

2007-11-26T22:28:00.000-05:00

Hey guys, long time no blog!

I'm home from school for the winter holidays and ready to blog. And what better way to kick things off than a look for less, Gossip Girl style?

I absolutely adore Blake Lively, and even more, her character Serena on Gossip Girl. I've actually found myself transitioning into her laid-back style when I shop! So, how can we Wannabe's imitate her down-to-earth style without an Upper East Side pocketbook? Check it out, I'll show you, with a little section I'll call:

What would Serana do?

Here's a look for Around the Town:

To get Serena's effortless, down-to-earth look,

Start with a cozy button-up cardigan from Forever21, $29.80
Add dark denim shorts, $9.99 from Alloy.com
Grab a sassy bubble tank from Urban Outfitters, on sale for $11.99 (my pick: grey!)
Flat boots from Baker's, $89.95
And a cute parachute bag from SJP's line Bitten, at Steve and Barry's for $9.95

Stay tuned for more great bargains, especially as the holidays approach! I'm sorry for the hiatus but I hope to be back for many more blogs to come.

Britney Loses Custody

2007-10-02T10:49:00.000-04:00

Oh, how the mighty have fallen.

Brit, the world has adored you ever since your days in the Mickey Mouse Club.

Those days are long, long gone.

The second the razor touched your head, we knew this was a new, scary Britney era. The paparazzi never left your side. Your face, kids and ex-husband were constantly in the news. But we were rooting for you the whole time.

Even through your comeback.. which actually set you back further than I'd like to admit.

You knew you were under review for custody. So tell me, Brit Brit, why the hardcore partying ways? Why the drug allegations? Clubbing right after court?

I hate to say it, but K-Fed almost deserves the children (even though he's likely mainly in it for the child support) after her downward spiral.

Check the juicy details here.. if you dare.

White After Labor Day

2007-09-05T14:19:00.000-04:00

It's time to revolt!

I refuse to pack away my white mini dresses, especially when they look so cute with opaque tights!

Here's some background history:
The "no white after Labor Day" rule began with white shoes, where off-white would become the color of choice after the holiday. But then white shoes in general were deemed unfashionable, leading an entire tirade against the color, and the lightweight fabric it is usually found in, mainly by people who originally had no idea what "no white after Labor Day" even meant.

Harumph.

Sound the alarm, it's time for some fashion mayhem.

Start off small by carrying a white accessory or two, such as this $19.99 white hobo from Target.

Break the rules with this white t-shirt dress from Banana Republic, only $19.99. Why not rock this over a pair of dark skinny jeans or black leggings? Throw in some metallic accessories to look instantly pulled together.
And commit the ultimate faux pas with these (gasp!) white patent slingbacks from Guess, $47.99.

But please, rebellious fashionistas, carry a Tide to Go pen.. just incase. Stained white is never acceptable!

Peace,
The Wannabe

Labor Day Sale!

2007-09-03T11:29:00.000-04:00

Wow.. what a birthday weekend! I'll make up for the lack of posting with this one severely good piece of news:

Labor Day sale at Bluefly.com!

Now is the absolute perfect time to get designer duds on the cheap.. and I mean CHEAP! Take a peek at the coats for a few of the best deals I have ever seen on Bluefly.

This double breasted Michael Kors trench is originally $160. Bluefly is selling it for $69.99, but you can currently snag this beauty for $55.99!

White not your type? I adore this funky Diesel zip up, original retail at $250 and currently selling for $71.99.

Bluefly, I bow down to you, oh givers of designer goods to those of us lacking a celebrity budget! It's almost time to pile on the layers, and now we can do so.. stylishly, of course!

Peace,
The Wannabe

Scent-sational!

2007-08-30T02:26:00.000-04:00

If there's one part of my beauty routine that I can not do without, it's perfume. I feel self-concious all day if I forget! However, I don't believe that many people use the power of smell to their advantage. How many times has a friend told you about a great perfume, only to find it doesn't work well with your chemistry (or maybe hers?) Too often, if you ask me!

Gurl.com has long been a black hole of procrastination. On a recent visit, I found this perfume quiz that was just so dead-on I had to share! Plus, the quiz results come up with some relatively inexpensive scents, although I believe in splurging a bit in this department.

It may be an old quiz, as all of my results led to dead links, but a quick Google search can help you re-find your scent!

By the way, my top scents were anything kid-like and sweet.. basically, dead on! I wore Escada's "Rockin' Rio" until it discontinued, and currently switch between PacSun's "Tilt" and Elizabeth Arden's "Provocative Woman," for day and night respectively. But I can't wait to get my hands on Armani's "Code" for women!

With a bottle this beautiful, it has to smell good.

What did you get, and do you think you'll try it out? Or, what scents are you currently loving? Would you ever buy a discount perfume or order online?

By the way- it's my birthday tomorrow! I may not post, but I'll try :D

Peace,
The Wannabe

The Look For Less: J. Simp

2007-08-28T12:21:00.000-04:00

OK, I have to apologise to Jessica Simpson for featuring her as a "don't without a doubt" in the high-waist entry. To make it up to her, it's time to feature her as a fashion "yes, please," as she was spotted looking particularly gorgeous once again.

So polished, and it doesn't even look like she tried.

To start off, I also adore the updo AND the clean face. Good look, Jess!

Piled high with accessories and class.

Large Hoop Earrings:

Girlprops.com, $4.99

Gold Bangles:

Forever21, $5.80

Cocktail Ring:

Forever21, $5.80

Texas Necklace:

Urban Outfitters, $18

U-neck Tanktop:

American Apparel, $22

Wide-Leg Jeans:

Wet Seal, $34.50

Bright Blue Pumps:

Steve Madden, $29.99

Blue Faux-Reptile Bag:

Urban Outfitters, $29.99

Phew, that's a lot harder than it seems!

Peace,
The Wannabe

Prediction: Purple

2007-08-26T14:21:00.001-04:00

Move over Miss Cleo, the Wannabe is one clairvoyant fashionista!

Long, long ago, before this blog was created, I told my good friends at FabSugar that grays and purples would be huge this fall.

One trip through Macy's was all it took to prove it.. I was right!

We all know that gray is potentially the new black. But purple was a long time coming.. check these hot, inexpensive styles to get in on the trend.

Urban Outfitters has these delicious peep-toe suede flats for only $28! Can't you just imagine these with some skinnies and a big, gray turtleneck?

Hello, 80s! Sweater dress + octagonal Girlprops earrings.. I'm seeing fabulous in your future!

Purple looks best as an accessory to gray, but this $38.00 Macy's cowlneck dress has me thinking the other way around. Gray knit tights and black ankle boots? Yes, please!

How adorable is this £6.00 coin purse from TopShop? It's a subtle way to slowly incorporate purple into your wardrobe. Bonus: use it in a metallic purse for double style points.

I also see potential for disaster in the future. Be sure to stick to richer purples, rather than light lavenders! The rise of jewel tones is what makes purple so relevant. Also, as with anything, don't go overboard unless you'd like to be a walking reminder of the purple people eater. That miight not go over too well on the streets.

Peace,
The Wannabe

How To High Waist

2007-08-25T01:28:00.000-04:00

There's no denying it- high-waisted wide-leg pants have hit the fashion world full force. And why not? They take the emphasis off of your legs and create a longer, leaner torso and a beautiful hourglass shape. And the possibilities are endless with shorts, pencil skirts and skinny jeans also hitting the market in high style. But as many things in the crazy world of outlandish designs and eating disorders will do, potential fashionistas are unsure as to how to make this style work.

Rachel Bilson.. the reason I have faith in high-waists and wide-legs

Jeans are the big, big way to work this trend. If you can't seem to find the difference between a high waist and mom jeans, take baby steps and simply opt for wide-leg. Alloy has an excellent selection, priced from $27 to $36. And my favorite part- extended inseams!

Paris Blues, Truck and Piper High-Waist jeans at Alloy.com
Try the code "AEJAFF" for free shipping on $25+ orders through August 30!

Still can't do it? Go for formal. That way, they can be dressed up with a great blouse and heels and won't seem too trendy. My favs? Victoria's Secret, of course! These girls can turn a paper bag into instant Chanel, but I actually believe that the Christie fit might just look great on regular people, too.

The Christie fit, mid-rise wide-leg, $69.50

Ready to go all-out? I thought so! Urban Outfitters is the place for you. This trend hasn't hit mainstream yet, so if you're trying to be trendy on the cheap, you may end up looking more granny than goddess.

Try your luck with Silence & Noise, $98

This trend looks best on flat tummies, long torsos and smaller boobs, but not necessarily all at once. What do boobs have to do with it? Tucking in. If the waist is high: gravity-defy! Alright, that was terrible.. but tuck it in if you want to win! Err, whatever.. just put your shirt in your pants, unless you have big boosoms!

Oh, Jessica.. no, not today. At all.

Don't get pants so huge that you appear to be a footless wonder. The tip of your (pointy-toe? open-toe platform?) shoes should be visible. Also, be wary if you're short. Too much length can make legs appear stumpy instead of swan-like! The reason we should all rock high-waisted jeans? The ability to bend over, sit down or stretch without double checking for butt cleavage and muffin tops first!

Peace,
The Wannabe

Amanda, Dear

2007-08-24T12:04:00.000-04:00

I have to admit, I'm not a fan of Amanda Bynes. Ever since her spaztastic days on All That, and even worse, her own show on Nickelodeon. Please!

But I have to admit.. I kinda adore Dear, her new clothing line sold exclusively at Steve and Barry's, which dropped August 16.

The Web site makes everything look more 12-year old than it should with its excessive layering, hearts and random accessories, but many standalone pieces can actually make for good wardrobe-building basics.

Adore the gray and black striped sweater!
The outfit she's rocking is also from her collection.

I'm still not quite sure where Ms. Bynes was given the style OK to create a clothing line, but hey.. there's nothing over $20!

Peace,
The Wannabe

Back to School

2007-08-23T15:06:00.000-04:00

I'm about to go "back-to-school" shopping with my mom, as cheesy as that sounds. It's been a tradition that dates back to pre-school, but now that I'm older I have a $100 or under limit. Hey, it's also my birthday present, so it's really not that pathetic that mum is still buying my clothes!

So, as I enter my junior year of college, I wonder: What should I be wearing? It's a question many growing-ups have to ask in the transition from high school sweats to 3-piece suits.

Or McDonald's uniforms.

So ladies, here are my ideas for growing up up the wardrobe. On a budget!

The wide-leg jeans from Alloy totally cater to the hot Hollywood trend. While I'm not one to hop on bandwagons, I've tried on a pair, and they really are flattering! Plus, with my 37" inseam (true story! I'm 5'11 and alll leg) I'm all for Alloy sizes at the perfect price to try a trend, $31.60 for my size. Make 'em hot, hot, hotter with Steve Madden's bright color pointy-toe pumps peeking underneath, on sale for $29.99. To tone the look down, choose bright flats over heels. Tuck in a crisp, white shirt from Forever21 for $19.80 and strut your fine booty to the head of the class.

My school was voted #1, 2 and 5 party school in the nation for a reason (I'll let you guess which school!)- we need a reason to show off our cute outfits! Although I hate to link Forever21 twice in one blog, I can't even tell you how much adore this black sequin knit dress for $19.80. But it's a bit plain on it's own, so I added edgy purple leggings (until I can find teal ones! do you know any good ones?) from Target for $5. Throwing on ankle boots would look entirely too trendy with this look, so I'll keep it low-key with these metallic skimmers from Urban Outfitters for $29.99, on sale from $125. Sequins should serve as accessories enough, no need for anything but a headband, $2.99 from Wet Seal. Now, get your party on! I mean.. go study!

ps; Check out my latest fashion blog fav, Birdie Butters!

Peace,

The Wannabe

A Great Time for Bathing Suits

2007-08-22T18:15:00.000-04:00

It's time to buy a bathing suit!

"But Wannabe, Summer is almost over!"

Exactly.

Now is the time to catch the bathing suit sales! Just as Halloween candy prices hit the floor the day after, many designers have dropped their prices to where an entire suit could cost even less than just the top of a regularly-priced two-piece. $30 for just half? So not the Wannabe style!

$19.99 for top, $22.99 for bottoms

DKNY from Bluefly.com regularly priced $56.00 and $46.00!!

$9.99 each, Alloy.com

Now ladies, please be real with yourselves while shopping. Don't buy a small bathing suit if you wear a medium in hopes of losing weight. Similarly, don't plan to gain an extra 10 and buy a size up! If you're not sure what will fit next year, just don't buy.

Peace,

The Wannabe

Music around the globe

2007-08-21T12:25:00.000-04:00

Welcome to your new favorite bands.. from all corners of the Earth!

Australia:

Operator Please wins my heart with their quirky sense of style- musically and fashionably. Check into "Just a Song About Ping-Pong" and "Crash Tragic" for an instant mid-day energy burst! Plus, they're so flippin' cute it's sickening.

United Kingdom:

The Fratellis are a band of brothers that remind me of part two of The Beatles. Be prepared for second UK invasion starring these fine fellows. You've probably heard them in numerous commercials, such as the trailers for "Shrek the Third" and "Balls of Fury," and that iPod commercial that you know you dance to every time it comes on (admit it!).

Japan:

Mika Nakashima is a wonderful infusion of Japanese pop meets jazz soul. Her music is so beautiful, I don't even care what she's saying. But incase you're curious, there's a great YouTube video that translates her every dirty secret in "Love Addict."

Stay tuned for the next edition of music around the globe! Who do you guys like to listen to?

Peace,

The Wannabe

Ankle Boots: Demystified

2007-08-20T19:37:00.000-04:00

Ankle boots are still hot for fall, but many people are not quite ready to give in to some of the season's cutest footwear. They can be pretty daunting, but once you figure out the mystery behind the baby boot, it's going to take some Sherlock Holmes work to keep you away!

Skinny Jeans:

I have thighs, therefore, I don't have skinny jeans. But if you can rock them, throw on a pair of ankle boots while you're at it! I love these JC Penney booties for $69.99, and they would go perfectly with either a cropped motorcycle jacket or a flirty top. Hardcore!

Knit Dress:

The knit dress and ankle boot trend is so incredibly hot for fall, but bare legs and ankle boots are pretty much a no-no, unless you're a supermodel. It usually takes tall, thin legs to carry these babies off with ease, and thankfully, opaque tights give this illusion! And even if you are a supermodel, who couldn't use a little help every so often? Invest in a good pair NOW, if you haven't already!

Payless, $29.99

PS; Buy in black or grey!

Be careful when thinking of pairing ankle boots with short shorts or a minidress without tights. Ankle boots can easily go wrong, don't let the hoochie effect happen to you!

No, no Miss Lohan!

Peace,

The Wannabe

Get thee to Nordstrom!

2007-08-19T12:13:00.000-04:00

It's an end-of-season sale!

$12.90

$23.99

What are you waiting for?

Peace,

The Wannabe

Wannabes: Do Not Fear the Sales Rack!

2007-08-18T21:00:00.000-04:00

There's that moment. You know the one, when you walk into a really expensive store, and all of the sales clerk give that, "what are you doing here?" look. Yeah, that's the one.

But who cares? When will you ever see these people again? The self-concious feeling is most likely imaginary, but strut proudly to that sales rack in the back of the store, ladies, because there's no doubting the power of a great sale. Believe it or not, some of my friends would rather not walk into a specific store than browse their sales racks! This leads me to believe that this is a subject to be tackled.
This is the way I shop.

One of my favorite stores, Banana Republic, has some rockin sales. They're usually not advertised store-wide sales, but rather, a sole rack or two. And while their prices aren't usually terrible, it's more than I can bear to part with for a well-tailored shirt or two.

This is $58? Sooo not for me!

It takes time, but sifting through those racks will pay off when you find that great drop-waist tunic for only $19.99, dropped from $78.00!

That's more like it!

Amazing! That's the kind of sale to make you do a little dance! And all it takes is a little browsing.

Peace,
The Wannabe

Ring the Alarm

2007-08-17T16:44:00.000-04:00

Okay, okay.. I'm a Wannabe, and I have a problem.

I'm obsessed with rings.

And how can I not be, with these fabulous beauties around every corner?

This ring from TopShop reminds me of a beautiful china bowl I was never allowed to touch when I was younger. For only £6.00, no one can stop me from touching this!

Forever21 has my heart with this multi-bead ring, which manages to be cheap without looking cheap. $4.80? Get out of here!

Urban Outfitters has caught me x2. Vintage-ish gains a whole new meaning with this $19 brass beauty. Choose pewter with a black stone or golden with opal.

Sometimes, a secret just can't be kept. Let the cutie at the bar know how you truly feel, you cougar, you! $16.

Now, even though these look cute, don't let your guard down. These cheapies will probably leave a different kind of lasting impression.. like a green one on your skin. Wear with caution: remove before washing!

Fall Preview

2007-08-16T19:33:00.000-04:00

OK, time for a real blog!

Here's whats up for fall according to Style.com, and where you can get it for less!

Detailed Oragami Folds

This Nina Ricci gown showcases the mega display of folds, details and wild sewing skills that many designers sent down the runway for their Fall 2007 collections.

Enjoy it for less with this Urban Outfitters wrap dress, $58. And, hit two trendy birds with one Louboutin.. another mega fall '07 trend is gray!

Global Goodness

The globe was a hot commodity as well, meaning inspiration from around the world were melded into looks, most notably Anna Sui and Oscar de la Renta.

This smocked halter from Target takes a cue from the urban Orient-inspired Anna Sui. Grab it for $21.99, and throw on a cardigan for when it gets chilly!

Gone Gray

Gray is one of my favorite trends that I am more than willing to fall into. Every shade of gray from charcoals to heathers to metallic silvers strutted down the catwalk for our viewing pleasure.

This sweater dress from Kenneth Cole can be matched to the turtleneck twin from Old Navy, $36.50. Ditch the bright tights for basic black, unless bumblebee chic is your goal. However, these will look great with last fall's favorite red accessories!

Knit-tastic!

Knit me up and call me cozy, this time the designers took a cue from the common and decided to give the forever trendy a comfy break. Peter Som had the right idea. Here come the knits!

Hit up Urban Outfitters, and for $58 you'll be cozier than a pig in the mud on a hot day in July. Or something.

Suits and Silhouettes

Suits that show off an hourglass silhouette are also a strong force this fall, but unless it's for an interview at oh, say, an avante guarde fashion magazine.. save the daring details for the runway.

Christian Lacroix has the right idea. Subtly incorporate this style with a belted jacket from Wet Seal, $24.50.

The last trend is fairly silly and involves a multitude feathers, and while I don't doubt your super sauve nature, I also don't hope to see bird-like divas on the streets any time soon.

Thus, the affordable version of the luxe fall trends is finished. Thanks again to Style.com Trend Report for the fall '07 trend inspiration, and feel free to leave a comment if you have great picks to add!

Peace,

The Wannabe

What I Wannabe

2007-08-15T07:46:00.000-04:00

Hey!

About to rush off again (eight minutes!!), but thought I'd leave you with something of substance to read.

Oh, no, darlings.. not from me! From other great, GREAT blogs that inspire me daily.

Check them out under 'links' ----> that way..

Slave to Fashion and Suze on Style are my faves, they're two editors from Glamour magazine, one of the best! And they always have great inside advice and are willing to answer reader questions on style, and even life. Hello-oo, dream job!

Go Fug Yourself is a hilarious read, please, do yourself a favor and have a better day. These girls will make you laugh!

And last, FabSugar is one of THE most in-depth webs of all things fashion and pop culture. They generally feature more expensive clothes, but are absolutely excellent for one wishing to get that inside look at all things glam.

So, this is (hopefully) my last shallow-ly quick post! But check the links out, they're amazing! I'll have something interesting later, with any luck I'll be taking my grandma shopping, and picking some things up for myself on the way, after painting. Wish me luck!

Peace,
The Wannabe

You know what's hot?

2007-08-14T07:54:00.000-04:00

Okay, so I'm posting this before I dash off with my mom (I have six minutes!!) before she's late for work. Told you guys I was serious!

I'll be painting my grandma's house all day, and may not get a chance to post later. That's why instead of fashion hot, we're gonna get nerdy hot.

So you know what's hot? Reading! Summer is almost over but it's not too late to squeeze one more book in. Here's what's on my list:

PS., I Love You is one of THE most romantically happy and sad books I've ever read. It's sappy and beautiful and I promise you'll cry at least five times. If you love The Notebook (book or movie.. I personally hated the book), then read this. NOW!

You know I was going to say it: Harry. Potter. If you are one of the eight or nine people who hasn't read this book, it's not too late! Get yourself into a truly great book.

AHH GOTTA GO! More great reads:

Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
anything by Kurt Vonnegut

okay.. really gotta go.. might post later :D

Peace,
The Wannabe

The Wannabe Intro

2007-08-13T12:52:00.000-04:00

Wow.. I haven't been this excited in a while!

After being inspired by the dozens of fashion blogs I read every day, I've finally decided to throw myself into the dizzying mix by creating my own. Hey, I like what I have to say.. shouldn't you?

So, for my first blog, I'll just give a little intro. I mean, who wants to take advice from a complete stranger, no matter how fashionable and cute they are?

I'm Melanie, a 19 year old college student at the moment, soon to be 20 as of August the 31! I'm a junior studying magazine journalism, which is my main motivation to get a head start with this blog. I want to create my own magazine that mushes music, news and fashion for ages 14-25. which I feel is a very misunderstood group! Hey, big-time fashion editors, we like MORE than boys and clothes.. sometimes!

So that's the beginning to my journey. The other half lies in my absolute love for looking chic, without spending money I don't have. Note: I don't have a job, and I don't have a credit card!

Promise, this will probably be the longest blog I write. Please, leave a comment, come back tomorrow and be ready to be awed by some amazing fashion finds. I have a lot planned for this blog, and I'd hate for you to miss it!

Stay tuned for plenty of celeb looks for less, what's on the runway, DIY crafts, mega sales, the occassional high-priced items that we love to see and drool over and fashion in the news. There's more, but do you REALLY want to know it all right now? Just check back, I'll update daily!

Peace,
Melanie, The Wannabe