3 Sexy Tops - 3 Budgets - Summer 2007

Here are 3 sexy, summer tops for 3 different budgets for Summer 2007:

Surefire Steal:

Forever 21 (image and item) - Knit Babydoll - $22.80
Simple enough to go from day to night. The green color will stand out among a sea of black & white combos that are starting to become so cliche right now.

Slight Stretch:

bebe (image and item) Reversible Silk Halter Top - $89
Although I just said that the whole "black/white combo" is starting to become overdone, I haven't gotten completely sick of it yet...ok, ok, I still like it...for now. Back to the featured clothes...How cool is it that this top is reversible?

Serious Splurge

Miu Miu (image and item net-a-porter.com) Washed Satin Top - was $495 - now $247.50
I had to post a picture of the back of this top - so chic! I love love love it!

Happy sexy shopping!

Keep Your Cool - Chic Dresses for Outdoor Parties

Summer is in full swing, so your calendar is likely filling up with hot dates, shopping sprees, and lots of fun, outdoor parties, right? I don't know about you, but to me, there's not much better than a sun-drenched day with friends spent relaxing outdoors, sipping iced tea (or margaritas) and grilling out. For your next BBQ party, keep your cool with some super chic, lightweight summer dresses, like these:


Urban Outfitters (image and item) - Lux Tropical Ruffle Tube Dress


Betsey Johnson (image and item) - Carribean Stripe Linen Dress w/ Pockets


Lilly Pulitzer 'Mallory' Dress (image and item Nordstrom.com)

Pair dresses with pretty metallic flip flops like these by J Crew, or try some girly espadrilles to add some height and summer style to your look.

Summer to Fall 2007: Transition Chic Tote

In case you haven't noticed already (or just haven't been to the mall lately), stores everywhere are putting items on sale to start to make way for Fall 2007 fashion. I mean, Summer 2007 didn't officially start until just a couple days ago, but while we're all about putting our hottest summer outfits together, shops are gearing up to make way for Fall 2007 goods.

If you're still shopping for summer-worthy apparel and accessories, now is the time to start thinking about items that might transition nicely to the fall. I think this designer purse by Roberto Cavalli does just the trick:

Roberto Cavalli Acapulco Extra Large Hobo

This tote would work well with almost anything - from lightweight summer neutrals to fall tones to even black. I'm not a fan of mixing brown and black, but I think an exception to the "rule" can be made if the brown is a light-enough shade. Anywho, this purse would go great with shorts and dresses for now and jeans and boots once the cooler weather starts heading our way. It's Casual Chic and Transition Chic all wrapped up in one pretty purse.

NOTE: Image and item from eluxury.com

Casual Chic - Flats with Bling for Summer 2007

I've been looking for an affordable pair of flat sandals with lots of bling since last summer...unfortunately, the trend seemed to be with the brands that like to charge over $100, which I didn't (and still don't) feel like spending. Luckily, this season Nine West has stepped up with some cute designs like this pair:


Nine West - Carly - sparkly flats for $69

These sandals are perfect for those days when you want to sport a casual chic look that requires something simple, but nicer than your Rainbows.

NOTE: Image and item from ninewest.com

Summer Dress Deals at American Eagle

I have a wedding to attend later today...I'm actually an honorary bridesmaid, so we were in Columbia, SC for the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner yesterday. Anywho, The wedding isn't until 2PM later today, so I'm up and shopping the web from my hotel room...what else do you expect a shopaholic to do in her free time? Lol. Lucky for you guys I found three fab summer dresses on sale at American Eagle (ae.com) that I thought I'd share:


AE Patchwork Grad Party Dress Was $69.50 - Now $59.95
Not only is white super-chic for daytime attire, but the color will help reflect the sun, keeping you cool.


AE Strapless Party Dress Was $69.50 - Now $59.95
Ahh...the classic Madras pattern - eye-catchingly sweet - this pattern matches most of your closet, so you can easily choose accessories and a cardigan (should you need a cover-up for those chilly-indoor-events).


AE Sunset Dress Was $59.50 - Now $44.95
Royal purple makes you look regal paired with either gold or silver metallic accessories.

With the summer heat in full force, a chic, cotton, daytime dress is a must-have for Summer 2007, especially with deals like this at arm's reach!

Fashionista Must-Have ($ Required)

I'm not rich...but if you are, you def need this in your Summer 2007 wardrobe:

Stella McCartney - Belted Mini Dress in Cobalt Blue (as seen in Vogue)
Image and item from net-a-porter.com

Perhaps one day I'll be able to afford something like this. I guess I could buy this if I didn't buy anything else all month...I could always start eating Ramen for lunch and putting my lunch money in a piggy bank? Hmmm...

...not likely...I like to eat! :)

My Beach Cover-Up - Summer 2007

I noticed a trend this weekend related to my personal style. Of all the things I could have worn over my bikini as a beach cover-up, I wore soft, crinkly, cotton skirts again and again...much like this one:

This is what I wore to go on a sunset stroll with my honey. I had a white bikini underneath in case we decided to get in the water again (which we didn't b/c it got pretty darn cold at night), which I paired with a white, casual, cotton skirt and white cropped sweatshirt. It was super comfy and I liked how the wind would catch my skirt now and again - not a la Marilyn Monroe or anything, just a slight, girly swirl of the skirt. Anywho, I just wore the skirt because it was kinda cold...most days I paired my skirts with lightweight tank tops or simply T-Shirts.

Cotton Skirt - American Eagle
Bikini - Candie's
Cropped Sweatshirt - Gap

Charleston Style on a Budget

Here are some must-haves if you're headed for a warm-weather Charleston, SC vacation this summer 2007:

Cute Flip-Flops

J Crew Leather Capri sandals - $48

If you think you need to wear heels everywhere you go in Charleston, think again. Flip flops are not only acceptible, but pretty much the norm here - from day to night. Of course, if you're going to fancy-schmancy restaurant, you may want to take some heels in your tote, but with the cobblestone roads and all the walking, some comfy (yet still cute) shoes are a must.

Seersucker Anything

Old Navy Women's Strapless Seersucker Dress - $36.50

Seersucker is IMO a classic southern style fabric. Not only is it stylish, but it's super lightweight and comfy making it ideal in this very warm and very humid weather. I never see as much seersucker as I do in Charleston.

A Cute, Cotton Cover-Up

Old Navy Women's Strapless Crepe Dress - $34.50

For the beach, the pool, or just a comfy outfit to wear out-and-about, a cute, cover-up (like the one I found at Gap earlier) is a great item to bring on your Charleston vacation. I've been staying at the beach my whole trip and the cutest cover-ups have been little strapless dresses, not to mention I've seen these same dresses around town.

For anyone headed on vacation in the South (not Charleston), these same must-haves would likely work for any Southern vacation this summer. Happy Shopping!

Off to Charleston!

Well chicas, I'm off to the beach - Charleston, SC, actually. I'll post everyone's comments when I get back, most likely, since I'll have limited access to the internet while on vacation. If I see any good fashion, I'll try to get some shots to share with you, but I'm hoping to spend most of my time at the beach! ;)

In the meantime, I leave you with this:

Vera Bradley Capri Melon Straw Tote - $76

This is the beach tote I bought specifically for this trip. I'll let you know how it works out, but so far it seems pretty sturdy, and it's definitely super cute. I also got the matching beach towel and flip flops b/c I'm just a shopaholic - It's what I do.

Tah-tah! Have a lovely Memorial Day weekend!

NOTE: Image and item from verabradley.com

Super Sexy Stilettos - Summer 2007

How haute are these stilettos?

Jimmy Choo Disco Sandals - $750

A great addition to any fashionista's Summer 2007 shoe collection (for those lucky ladies who afford them). Theses sexy stilettos would be the perfect compliment for your favorite LBD.

If you like the look, but not the pricetag, these are still expensive (in my book), but less than half the price of the Choos:

Stuart Weitzman Dressmaker - $285.00

Btw, not sure how long it will last, but Zappos is offering Free Overnight Shipping! How sweet is that?

NOTE: First image and item from saks.com; second from zappos.com

Adorable Loose-Fitting Dress for Summer 2007

I want this dress:

Velvet - Gretta in Midnight
Image and item from Azaleaonline.com

It's very Nicole Richie, no?

...on drawback - the web site says this is a top, yet it comes up when you click on Dresses. I wonder if this would be too short to wear as a dress if you aren't a super-rich celebutante? Hmmm...

Haute Flats For Work-Chic Style 2007

Has anyone else noticed how hard it is to find cute flats for work?

Here are some simple but super cute options to make your business casual outfit a tad more on the comfortable side, while still maintaining your style:

Report "Cassie" Peep-Toe Flat - $49
Image and item from macys.com
Not quite as dressy as the next two, but certainly easier on the pocket.


MICHAEL Michael Kors Open Toe Ballet Flat - $97.95
I love MK, not to mention you can rock these metallic cuties with black or brown - who doesn't like a lil' extra versatility?
Image and item from nordstrom.com


Phoebe Leather Peep-Toe Flats - $148
I actually have these in brown and I love them! Expensive? Yes. Worth it? Most definitely - they are so chic and comfy!
Image and item from jcrew.com

Anyone else know of some cute flats for work?

From Work To Play - 3 Skirts That Transition Nicely From Day to Night

Here are three skirts that you can wear to the office and easily transition to a more nighttime setting...selected for three budgets:


3.1 Phillip Lim Rosette Detail Skirt
Image and item from Net-a-porter.com


Banana Republic - Cotton/Linen Textured Pencil Skirt
Image and item from bananarepublic.com


Women's Essential Pencil Skirt
Image and item from oldnavy.com

Cocktails after 5 anyone?

Who's That Necklace?

Shopaholic sweetie, CTPrep, asks "I like the color combination. What kind of necklace are you wearing?" in this picture (click).

I made it! It's one of my jewelry designs that I created using a vintage gold-plated pendant with 14/20K gold-fill chain and gemstones - amazonite and bronzite. It's a great necklace because it's super versatile, and the longer length is one of the trendier accessory looks this season. Here's the larger photo:

D Celestine Limited (aka me) - "Pocket Change Necklace"
Click for details

Chic Daytime Skirt

Check out this chic summer skirt I found while browing Net-A-Porter.com's latest wares:


Marc by Marc Jacobs - Cotton Tulip Skirt - $218

According to the web site, this skirt is one of their "Summer Chic For Less." I don't know about you, but this skirt is on the expensive side for my budget. Either way, I think it's either a good deal or a worthy investment (whatever your budget). Scoop one up today to take your outfit up a notch this summer.

Awesome Aqua Dress

Wow, I think I'm in love with this awesome aqua dress:

Macys.com - London Times Ruched-Waist Halter Dress - $139.00

I love how pretty and flowy this dress is and how the ruched band around the waist breaks up the vertical fluidity just a tad, adding personality to the dress without the addition of another color...not to mention I just love turquoise, in general. This dress would make a great daytime or nighttime date dress - just switch out your accessories for the time of day. This dress would also work well as a wedding dress (for a guest, not the bride, of course) - especially for a fun summer wedding.

Add some dangly earrings and call it a day! Pair with silver strappy shoes to create an overall posh look.

Gorgeous Grays for Summer 2007

ShopBop is having a sale for those tax blues. Treat yourself to some new chic sweets for getting your taxes done on time, and you may even save enough money to get yourself a spa pedi to boot.

Use code "TAXBREAK2007" on ShopBop.com and save $20 off orders of $100, $50 off orders of $250, and $100 off orders of $500! Don't forget ShopBop offers Free ground shipping every day, so you can shop from the convenience of your couch without the yucky shipping charges.

Here are some of my fave picks in cool gray/silver hues for Summer 2007:


Young Fabulous & Broke - Racer Back Mixed Media Tank Top $92


LOVE from Ya-Ya - Rage Dress $198


Tashkent by Cheyenne - The Speedie Wedge in Leather $405

Pair these gorgeous grays with simply sweet metallic silver shoes and accessories.

NOTE: Images and items from ShopBop.com

Sassy Swimwear for Thirtysomethings

Shopaholic sweetie, "Norma" asks, "I am the 32 yr old with a dressing young complex !! What bikini would you recommend for an older woman ?"

Well Norma, you act like 32 is old...I don't think 32 is old at all! As far as bikinis, you should be able to wear nearly anything you want (within reason, of course). I mean, take a look at celebs these days...

Penelope Cruz is right around your age, and she looks great! You even have some celebs well into their 40s and 50s still rockin the bikini, which means at your young age of a mere 32, you're good to go! I'd say that when shopping for bikinis, there are a couple things to keep in mind when you're wanting to dress age-appropriate.

1. Mind the stores you're shopping - If you're shopping in "teeny-bopper" shops for your latest summer 2007 bikini, then you're probably going to get something a tad too young for you.
2. Pick a classy pattern - If you're really worried about looking "appropriate" in your bikini, then you may want to err on the side of conservative when it comes to patterns. Stick with stripes, florals, polka dots, and, of course solids, but shy away from all-over metallic or super flashy prints, like leopard-print.
3. Same goes for the cut - Shy away from too skimpy a cut. I mean, you don't want to wear the two piece that is practically a one piece, but I wouldn't do a string bikini top AND bottom. It'd probably be best to go with a string top and a slightly more covering bottom, like Penelope's...you know...balance everything out.
4. Get a cute cover-up (like this sarong) to match your swimwear...or at least one that matches your favorite bathing suit. I love my cover-up that I got from Victoria Secret...they're great for those moments you're feeling a bit self-conscious, but they look hot too!

Here are a couple suits I found online to give you an idea:

Hot Mama!

Guess - This suit is a tad more risque than the others, but would be great for those days you're feeling extra sexy or want to look great for your next vacation with your SO

Just Beautiful


La Blanca via Nordstrom.com - this suit offers more coverage in both the top and bottom, but still looks great. It's just beautiful! This suit would make a great addition for those days you're feeling extra classy.

Simply Sweet

Lilly Pulitzer is the queen of southern charm and southern class when it comes to dressing...I mean, I wouldn't say Lilly has the most work-appropriate stuff if you work in a bank, etc., but especially for daytime or beach wear, her styles are just fun and classy! This pink, polka-dot suit is simply sweet for those days you're feeling cutesy.

The middle one is probably my favorite for you, just because it has a little more coverage, while still looking young, fresh, and oh-so-beautiful! Of course, all the tips here are just my personal opinions, and you may have to switch them around a bit to fit your body type and personal style, but hopefully, they help a bit. Happy shopping!

:) D

Red Haute Swimwear for Summer 2007

Check out all the gorge swimwear I found on the web for my favorite hauties!

Sexy Zebra Striped Bikini

Guess - $96 for both (click for details)
Animal prints are almost always hot, but for some reason, zebra stripes seem just a tad more classy than some of the others out there. Pair with some black, over-sized designer shades for sizzling swimwear style.

Adorable Floral


Betsey Johnon on Nordstrom.com - $144 (click for details)
I think I'm in love...this bathing suit is just so cute...florals are a classic swimwear pattern, and just look at those adorable ruffles! I think this suit would look good on my ghetto booty, which Anonymous from my last post so "kindly" stated...lol...hater!

Decidely Designer

Emilio Pucci on eLuxury.com - $360 (click for details)
Beach chic with a designer pattern to boot - this suit is super gorge for summer 2007 and is sure to get attention of guys and girls alike! Guys will love the sexy cut and girls will ogle over your obviously Pucci-patterned suit!

Happy swimwear shopping, ladies! It's time to get your swimswear-shopping on!

NOTE: Images and items from Guess.com, Nordstrom.com, and eLuxury.com, respectively

Sweet Summer Sandals

While browsing the web tonight, after seeing the hilarious Blades of Glory, I found these babies on Zappos.com:

Sofft - Ria - $90.95 (click for details)

These shoes are super sweet for Summer 2007. They'd look absolutely gorge with white capris, cuffed shorts, or even a pretty, flowy skirt - especially with that new French pedi you got in time for sandal-season.

NOTE: Image and item from zappos.com