Victoria Beckham (source)

Molly Sims (source)

Miley Cyrus (source)

Any way you tie it, bows are making their way into every detail for pre-fall fashion ensembles. From 1970’s-inspired frilly neck tops (like Miley’s plaid variety) to big 1980’s prom dress inspired bows like on Molly Sims and V-Becks, these girly details are truly divine.

The truly daring can pair a frilly neck top with high-waist pants and open toe booties for a seriously fierce office ensemble. And if you are feeling extra saucy, then go for the big satiny bow effect and look for cocktail dresses with a halter neckline and a bow tie at the back, or even a more retro style like on Molly Sims.

If you’re not so sure you are ready to look like a blast from the past, then check out these bowed beauties to get a taste of this trend in a more subtle way:

Betsey Johnson Bow Bangle Watch, $75.00

The perfect accessory to give a menswear look a more feminine feel.

Leather Mini Bow Bag, $29.99

The perfect way to wear this bag: sugar and spice. Pair this uber girly purse with fierce gladiator sandals and a leather (or latex) mini.

STEAL:

Lela Rose for Payless “Peggy” Wedge Sandal, $30.00

My personal favorite, this slingback peep-toe wedge sandal is both timeless and trendy. Worn with a vintage-style flowery dress or to add a little sweetness to a menswear look, this shoe is both versatile and fun.

SPLURGE:

Escada Mini Houndstooth Bow Dress, $1,690.00

Unfortunately, I have to pay the old mortgage this month, otherwise this dress would be in my closet right now. Feel free to send me one in a size 10. Thanks.

Popularity: 5% [?]

Botkier for Target Fuchsia Hobo, $39.99

VS.

Botkier Morgan Fringe Tote, $675.00

I practically gave myself whiplash at Target this weekend when I ran across their Botkier for Target line…all I can say is WOW!!! Okay, so the bags are PVC and not leather, but holy cow. These are hot. For what it costs to fill my tank with gas right now, I can own a truly designer-style handbag. The quality was excellent and the bags were right on trend with what’s going to be hot this fall and winter. Check them out:

Editor’s Picks:

White “Python” Bag, $39.99

This is the ultimate year round workin’ gal bag…smart and sleek, this one will easily go from the board room to a night out, and goes with just about everything.

Goldtone Wristlet, $19.99

For under $20, the perfect going-out bag can be yours. I love the pouchette look, and this bag can easily go from being a wristlet to a clutch.

Black “Python” Shoulder Bag, $29.99

This is probably the standout bag from Botkier’s Target line…high-shine faux-python and the chain strap detail make this bag both fierce and fun.

So if you are watching your wallet like everyone else right now, but still need to quench your thirst for fabulous fashion, then keep checking with Target. They never fail to amaze me with the big names they bring in, so keep them coming please please please!

Popularity: 8% [?]

Christian Siriano exclusively at Bluefly!

You know him, we love him…the quirky, talented and oh-so-fierce winner of last seasons’ “Project Runway,” the one and only Christian Siriano’s line is now available exclusively at Bluefly. And yes, it’s as fabulous as you would expect. Pricier than Target, but not so expensive that you’ll have to blow the rent, these haute pieces are retro-futuristic in all the right ways.

Gold Silk “Red Carpet” Dress, $325.00

LOVE this dress…even though there are no red carpets in my immediate future, this dress would be perfect for holiday parties. Snap one up now and pair it with tights and some fierce boots from fall through winter.

Cotton “Posh” Puff-Sleeve Blouse, $590.00

Although this piece was obviously inspired by a certain Spice Girl, I love this top because it reminds me of Maddona meets Blade Runner. Sophisticated, cool and edgy all at the same time, this can be worn with jeans, slacks or a skirt and will create a different effect every time.

Black Cotton Sateen “Motocross” Skinny Pants, $ 280.00

To be honest, I don’t love these. For me, the pockets look a little poufy, and I’m a curvy gal, so I have to steer clear of pouf. However, my slim sista’s shouldn’t be derailed…these are the perfect compliment to Christian’s puff-sleeved top and will create one heck of a fierce look.

So there you have it…if you can’t get enough of this budding designer, then check out what Christian had to say about his new collection HERE. Stay sassy!

Popularity: 6% [?]

Pleat-Front Jersey Dress by Metro 7, $14.00 Wal-Mart.com

Ok, times are tough all over right now, that’s obvious. Soaring food and gas prices…blah, blah, blah. We hear it and live it every day. While there may not be much relief in sight, and our pocket books will likely continue to suffer, there’s no reason to throw in the fashion towel. You just have to change the rules, switch it up and open your mind to new fashion frontiers while tightening your belt at the same time. Here are some of my tried and true tips to finding budget trends that are easy on my wallet:

1) Get thrifty: For some reason, there are some people who are squeamish about thrift store shopping. I got over it really quickly when I found a brand new pair of pointy toe flats for $2.99 a couple of years back. The biggest problem is that there is usually so much to choose from, with poor organization. When I go, I have a specific list of things I want to buy in mind (based on current trends). This keeps me focused and stops me from buying that really cool 1980’s sequined dress.

Things to look for at thrift stores right now: menswear vests, vintage peep-toe shoes, drop-waist dresses, envelope clutches, long cardigans, belts, chunky necklaces and much more! Just open up a Vogue for inspiration and you’ll be surprised at what you can find.

2) Get thee to a Wal-Mart: …or Target, or K-Mart. You get the idea. While Target is a no-brainer, their “Go” line is kinda pricey. Hit the sales racks for the best deals. However, the best steal I have found recently was at Wal-Mart…they have a ton of No Boundaries jersey knit sun dresses in solid colors and exotic prints for only $15.00. I got one in teal and am going back for more.

3) Shop in your own closet: I bet you have at least one item in there with the tag still on it. If you haven’t worn it already, return it if you can, or wear it! Again, look to magazines for inspiration to see how you can put outfits together in ways you may never have thought of. I like to look at “Lucky” to see how they put pieces together in different ways. Layer two dresses together, use a skirt as a top…the possibilitites are endless!

Whether you decide to shop for cheaper threads, or simply get creative with what you already have, don’t let a lagging economy keep you from your chic. With a little extra work, you’ll still look like a million bucks, even if your bank account is in the red.

Popularity: 8% [?]

Michelle Trachtenberg, Nicky Hilton and SJP

What won’t they think of next? Those crazy designers are always putting a spin on new trends to make them newer, and the peep-toe bootie is the latest reincarnation. It’s like a peep-toe pump and ankle boot all in one. I’m not so sure how I feel about them yet, although, I always like a good peep-toe. Celebs seem to be flocking to them like Olsens to gladiator sandals, so you’ll be sure to see them on the streets this fall.

Can’t wait to get your hands (and feet!) on these babies for this fall? Check out these super cute boots and get them now to be ahead of the trend:

Steve Madden “Midory” Bootie. $99.90 at Nordstroms

Metallic leather, high heel, ruching, side button detail…what’s not to love, and for under $100! These are the perfect booties to pair with any dress for evening. These are also great for girls that are a little self-conscious about their legs (hello, me!) because they aren’t going to strangle your calf.

Guess by Marciano “Nitty” Slingback Oxford, $84.90 at Nordstrom

This menswear-inspired bootie is the perfect one to try if you are not so sure of this trend. The peep-toe and sling back make this shoe easy to wear, and the lace-up oxford look make it perfect for the office.

Vince Camuto “Karl” Oxford, $124.95 at Nordstrom 

This is the shoe for the ultimate fashionista…fierce yet feminine, this Vince Camuto shoe is perfect for red carpets and sidewalks alike. Cutout and buckle details, as well as the lace-up oxford look make this fun shoe daring and sophisticated at the same time.

So no matter what your style, or level of commitment to this look, there is a peep-toe “shoetie” out there for you. Happy shopping!

Popularity: 6% [?]

Ashley Tisdale (source)

Well color me surprised…it’s not every day that you see such style in a relatively newbie celeb. The High School Musical starlet seems to have her fashion chops well under way with a look that’s not too precious, pretentious or boring and is age appropriate and tasteful. Love it!

Seriously, what’s not to love? Geometric print dresses, fab handbags, tailored pants, sophisticated jewelry…Ash seems to have just the right mixture of fresh and unexpected with classic and timeless.

If you want to steal Ashley Tisdale’s style, here are a few simple rules to follow:

1) Keep it simple: If you are going for a big bold dress, then tone down shoes, jewelry and handbags.

2) Keep it fresh: natural hair and makeup are perfect for any look, but work best with a slightly funky vibe

3) Add a splash of fun: to keep from being to bland, add a pop of color with a pair of yellow shoes, an orange bag or a chunky necklace.

Jewelry is the easiest and most versatile way to add interesting details to your wardrobe, so give your look a dose of Ashley Tisdale style with this necklace from Lilia:

Fruiti de Mare Necklace, $150.00

Popularity: 8% [?]

Summer is still well under way, but thoughts of autumn leaves, knee-high boots and evenings by a roaring fire may already be coming to mind. If you are like me, then fall is your favorite time of year, if not for the clothes alone. So why not start getting that pre-winter wardrobe ready? There are a number of items you can buy (and wear!) now that will easily translate into a fall wardrobe, some of which you probably already have. Check out these ideas for great summer to fall looks:

1) Denim Skirt

Denim Pencil Skirt, Gap.com, $49.50

A denim skirt is perfect in the summer time paired with a solid tank and sandals. Wear it in the fall with a checkered shirt and boots or a sweater, textured tights and heels.

2) Cardigans

Cardigan, Banana Republic, $69.00

Wear these now as evening cover-ups over silky tanks and sun dresses, and use your cardigans again in the fall for layering.

3) Vests

BDG Altamont Vest, Urban Outfitters, $58.00 

Wear a menswear vest now over a tank top, tee or dress for a funky look. Recycle your vest for the fall and wear it with skinny pencil pants to reign in blousy tops.

So start digging through your closet now and see what can be reimagined for fall; look for mustard yellows, browns and rust oranges when you are shopping; these colors are hot right now and will translate well into your autumn ensembles.

Popularity: 4% [?]

Hilary Duff (source)

Victoria Beckham (source)

Marley Shelton (source)

Bring on the heavy hardware…long gone are the skinny belts from last season; this summer, it’s all about wide belts. Serious metallic details, thicker straps and an all-around “edgier” look in belts are showing up on red carpets and the streets. And this look isn’t just for evening alone; the trend right now is to pair a heavier belt with a surprisingly floaty or feminine dress by day.

Not sure if this look is right for you? Here’s how to make a wide waist cinching belt work for you:

1) Casual: go for a boho look a la Hilary Duff and pair a neutral tone belt in a soft brushed leather over a long sun dress. You can also try the same look with a long feminine tunic over skinny jeans.

2) Dressy: pick a black patent belt and cinch it over a fitted jacket like our favorite Spice Girl would (motorcycle gloves optional).

3) Fierce: go for the unexpected, and pair a black belt with funky hardware over a formal dress or white button-down tee.

Check out this belt from Elegantly Waisted for a celebrity-style steal:

Double Ring Wrap Belt Sale $106.50

Popularity: 5% [?]

Kate Beckinsale (source)

Ashlee Simpson-Wentz (source)

Charlize Theron (source)

Ok…I’m going to be honest; this is not one of the easiest trends to pull off. Maxi dresses are all the rage right now, and you can find them everywhere from Old Navy to Target on the low end to upscale designer styles. While these flowy frocks seem like they would be the answer for all of us body conscious girls (goodbye thunder thighs!), the wrong print or cut could have your dress looking one step away from a house coat.

This being said, I love a good maxi dress; they are ethereal, bohemian and not to mention, comfy. Not only that, but they are the perfect cover up for trendanista mom’s-to-be. If you are brave enough to try this trend, here are a few tips on how to wear a maxi dress:

1) Get a good cut: if you have an ample top, make sure the girls aren’t spilling out everywhere, and that’s just for starters. Make sure your waist is still defined, whether with an empire style or with a belt, and make sure that your not going to trip over a too-long hemline.

2) Prints: beware of busy prints that induce headaches or blurry vision, because that’s a lot of fabric to deal with. If you are particularly unsure or self-conscious, go with a solid print maxi dress to start.

3) Accessorize: another reason to go with a solid colored maxi dress is that it is going to be the easiest to accessorize with. Long necklaces, scarves, and look-at-me handbags go great with a maxi dress. Still not sure what to wear those trendy gladiator sandals with? Try them with a maxi dress to double up on trends.

If you are still not sure, then get yourself an inexpensive solid colored maxi dress and wear it as a cover up to the beach or the pool and give it a test drive. If you decide that the longer style isn’t for you, cut it to just above knee length and repurpose it into a sun dress. Either way, experiment and have fun! Let us know what you think about this summer trend and if it works for you!

Popularity: 5% [?]

Elizabeth Arden Green Tea Lotus, 1.7 ounces, $27.00

Looking for a surprising and fresh scent for this summer? Then look no further…Elizabeth Arden recently introduced their new fragrance, Green Tea Lotus, a light and airy scent that is perfect for warm weather. If you are like me and hate overpowering fragrances, then this is definitely one to try.

The inspiration behind this fragrance comes from flower gardens in India, Japan and China. One whiff of this perfume and visions of silk kimono’s, delicate tea and lush gardens come to mind. Feminine without being girly, this sophisticated fragrance is the perfect perfume to try if you are bored with your current eau de toilette, but aren’t ready to commit to something too heady.

Still not sure? Check out these fresh top, middle and base notes to tantalize your olfactory senses:

• Top Notes Caraway, Fruity Rhubarb, Lemon, Orange Zest and Bergamot
• Middle Notes Cool Minty Peppermint, Green Tea, Sweet Jasmine, Spicy Carnation, Fresh Fennel and Crisp Celery Spice
• Base Notes Oakmoss, Musk and Amber

In my opinion, the green tea and citrus scents take center stage in this fragrance, creating a super fresh aroma that perks me right up.

So, if you are looking for something new to shake up your fragrance routine, stop by your local Elizabeth Arden counter and ask for a spritz…you won’t be disappointed!

Popularity: 5% [?]