Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Diva Hair Styles for New Year's Eve Parties


Depression got you gloomy for New Year's Eve? Cheer up! You can still go out and celebrate, depressionaire diva style, with all the glamour and sultriness of the 1930s goddesses with these retro hair accessories.

All these were found at Elegant Hair for less than $10 each.

Curl, crimp, gel -- see you at the party ... Ta ta!

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Glamorous Nails for New Year's Eve Parties

If you are pondering what to wear for your New Year's Eve bash, don't forget that you can get a lot of bang for your buck with some daring nail polish. The colors available for the season are scrumptuous and enticing. The best part of spluring on nail polish is that it fits into the tiniest of budgets.

OPI is celebrating its 25th anniversary, and the stage they set is full of imagery of bold, feminine statements:
A fresh, effortless glamour rules the runways. In addition to fitted, feminine suits and new takes on the 'little black dress", we'll see romantic full skits, ruffles and dresses that accentuate a woman's curves. Little jackets with slim skirts or skinny trousers are big, as are sweater coats and blouson jackets. Cardigans combine with ball gowns to offer a perfect example of this new look at glamour.

Plaid is everywhere, including worn with houndstooth-print jackets. Luxe embroidery, beading and fur make an appearance, as well as utterly feminine layers of lace. Cocktail dresses are fabulous now, especially with coordinating coats. Menswear influence is seen in neckties and military details.

In counterpoint, look for dark colors and sleek, spare lines -- a primal urban look that is glamorous in its lack of embellishment and elegant in its toughness.

For fashion as for make-up, deep, dark, sophisticated colors are the choice of the season, including rich browns, cinnamons, cognacs and brown-reds, black, shades of wine and deep greens.

Here's my favorite color from their new collection, and it's perfect for upcoming New Year's Eve parties, a satiny silver for $8.50.

The color below is going to be one of my new favorites. It's a shimmery gold piled on with deep burgundy reds. It's bound to add drama to any of your outfits, even after the parties are over, and with a name like Divine Sin, who can resist this $5.50 indulgence?

Finally, Sequin Sash, a soft, muted champagne color to match the bubbly. This from Essie for $8.00.

Friday, December 26, 2008

Depression Era Fashion Statements


It's all about the flair and the glamour. Consider what worked for Greta Garbo, film star from the 1930s in movies as classic as Mata Hari (1931), Anna Karenina (1935), and Conquest (1937):
The first and most important of MGM's remarkable pool of female stars during the classical era, Greta Garbo personified the studio's notion of glamour and style. A beautiful but large and ungainly woman, she was most often photographed either from a distance or in closeup—the better to display the elegance of her surroundings (she often appeared in costume dramas or in exotic locales) or, more importantly, to capture her exquisite face and ethereal personality.
The Garbo flair can be yours too. Here's how Epoch Times describes the key:
Perhaps the most commanding style advice we can glean from the exhibit is that whatever the garments, if they suit a woman’s personality, boost her confidence, and help her shine, then she will be surrounded by luxury. Look beautiful, be natural, and don’t be shy to gaze straight from the heart.
We all have something in our closet that makes us feel extra feminine, even sultry, don't we? For me, it's an angora, black scarf that I carelessly toss around my neck. To make the look more alluring I pair it with a low cut top. Works every time.

Here's some glamorous accessories that can fit in nicely, at a great price.





Mimsi-Bags has these plush, boa scarves starting at $20. They can even customize them in your favorite color.

The daring cap tilted to the side look? Not only is it affordable, but it can be done in cashmere. Bluefly has this chocolate brown cashmere knit cap on sale for only $18.95.

This beautiful, grey silk and cashmere scarf is going to feel soft and luxurious no matter what you wear with it. The Pashmina Store has it on sale for $29.99, too!

Depression Era Divas


From Style.com comes a reminder that depression economics is not pretty, but the divas of the 1930s depression were beautiful nonetheless.

Jean Harlow, Greta Garbo, Josephine Baker, Myrna Loy -- stylish depressionaire divas. Read more here.

More photos here.

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Shopping Tips for Depressionaire Diva's

Depressionaire Diva's are the more serious sisters to the Recessionistas ... and for good reason! Our approach to shopping incorporates economic decisions with style requirements and a flair for the dramatic!

But, like our sisters, we are always on the prowl for tips on how to shop for more with less. So in the spirit of sharing, here are some tips from Recessionista's Guide to Finding a Good Bargain:

1. SHOP AT OFF-PRICE STORES
Most of these stores can't advertise the brand name goods they sell which is how they are able to offer them at such bargain prices. Larger chains like TJ Maxx and Marshalls have more buying power so you'll find even better deals. You may have to dig deep, but you're bound to find something amazing.

  • TIP: check back often, each store receives 3 to 4 truckloads of merchandise each week. Avoid Saturday - it is the most crowded day.

2. SHOP ONLINE
It's no secret that this is our favorite way to shop. Not only can you avoid crowds and shop in your pj's, but some of the best deals can be found online. Often this is because there's typically a lower overhead associated with online-only businesses.

Online outlets such as bluefly.com and yoox.com offer a selection of luxury brands with the same bargain prices you'll find at an off-price retailer. You can often find the same items in department stores, boutiques and within the pages of your favorite magazines at full price -- yet they offer it at much lower prices. For non-fashion items, check out overstock.com and smartbargains.com.
  • TIP: If you find something you like, buy it quickly, inventory is typically limited so hot items move fast.
  • TIP: Be sure to sign up for email newsletters to be the first to hear about new arrivals and sales.
  • TIP: Search online for special offers and coupon codes before you shop (check out our coupon site, sweet-savings.com for some amazing deals at places you love to shop)
Read more great ideas here.

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Fuzzy Chenille Scarf

Nothing is more glamorous than a chenille scarf around your neck. In this cold weather, nothing is also warmer.

Here's a must-have scarf, only $4.99, that comes in beautiful red, grey, brown, silver and many more colors. From GreatLookz.com:

If you're a crocheter (and we all should be!), try this beautiful chenille yarn, only $8.50 for the 98 yards (plenty for a plush scarf) from The Yarn Co. Looking for a pattern? My favorite site for plenty of ideas is Crochet Pattern Central. Now you can cozy up in front of the fireplace and create!

Baby Doll Dress

Don't you love how those baby doll dresses feel? So free and soft. These short versions with long sleeves are that much sexier! The rich colors make you feel scrumptious. The look? Try aiming for this cashmere version from Neiman Marcus, on sale for $164 (originally $298):
A thrifty version of the above? Done! Try this look from Target, only $24.99:
Even plus-sized divas (goddesses) have a chance for this look. Also from Target, for only $34.99:

With some sexy high, heeled, boots and matching tights, we can all be Depressionaire Divas in style.

Thrift Store Shopping -- Back In Style

The latest headlines from around the country are similar to this:
From the Santa Fe New Mexican: Boon for Thrift Stores
From CNN: Thrift Stores Seeing More Middle Class Shoppers
Jacksonsville News: Thrift Shops Thrive

Even without much money in our pockets, we still love to shop!

Here's some tips from WikiHow on how to make your thrift excursion a fabulous shopping trip:
  • Tailoring is generally less expensive than you would imagine.
  • Keep your personal style in mind. Thrift stores can be great for this because you are not limited to this year's colors and styles.
  • Be creative and open-minded. Go with what's available and think about how you can work it in or adapt it to your needs.
  • A quick way to size the waist of pants, skirts, etc. is to fasten the button or snap, then stretch the waistline between your belly button and your spine. If it reaches, it has a good chance of being large enough. You should still try the garment on for fit, if you can or want to, but this simple check will help you eliminate quickly those items that are certain to be much too tight or loose.
  • If you know some basic sewing, you can plan to mend small holes, reattach a lost button, or take up a hem, but be realistic about whether you have the time, energy, and know-how to tackle such a project. You can even buy something and edit it to make it totally your own.
  • Since they're plentiful and inexpensive, thrift store finds can also make great raw material for other projects, ranging from quilts to jeans you've torn yourself. If you're crafty and creative, the sky is the limit.
  • Be prepared to dig! Thrift shops are full of items and may are disorganized. Don't be discouraged by this, because if you dig, you can find some fabulous pieces.
  • Have fun!

Monday, December 22, 2008

Diva's Shoe

It's all about the style, the look, the bargain shopping. In the 1930's women's shoes played a large role in shaping the fashion of the era. Fashion Templates describes the shoe trends:

A variety of shoe styles was available during this era. Rounded toes were seen with wide, thick heels. Pumps and flat shoes were available, and ankle strap styles with moderate heels also appeared. Slip-on styles, lace-up shoes and buckle shoes were all worn. Spectator or two-tone shoes appeared in the early thirties. Rubber companies were actually endorsed for their shoe soles in the Sears’ Catalogue.

Shopping for shoes recently I yearned for a style reminiscent of the 1930s, albeit at a bargain price. So, now that I have just a couple of twenties to spend on a pair of shoes I want to make sure my shoe purchase is fitting with the times. Hmmmm .... what to choose from?


Instead of paying $139.50 (on sale from $225) at Saks.com, for these classic ballerina slippers, Piperlime has this darling pair of ballet slippers for $19.99. Just imagine these with black tights and tight mini skirt. Quite girlishly charming.




Back in the day, theseVia Spiga shoe boots (must have for this season), a to-die-for pair of black leather and suede for a cool $187.16 (on sale from $259.95) would already be in my closet!

But, now I'm shopping for something close to the look, and voila! I'm a lucky girl. For only $29 I can get peep-toe shoe boots from Newport News.
The last challenge was searching for a more affordable version of Manolo Blahnik's classic Mary Jane pumps (even on e-bay they were $829):


The diva in me didn't give up, and I came up with a fabulous bargain without sacrificing style. These were $64 from RSVP at Zappos.com:

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Julianne's Plaid Coat


Wasn't diva Julianne Hough darling in her holiday, plaid coat? Keeping warm doesn't mean giving up style.

Would you want one of these trench coats in your closet? Here's one from Zappo for $139. It's longish sleeves and banded collar add flair, while the pattern speaks for itself.


If you need something easier on your budget, this is your answer from Fashion Bug, for $19.99.

Friday, December 19, 2008

Accessories That Won't Stretch Your Budget




I love adding depth to my wardrobe. Stretching a small budget can feel like a big splurge with the right accessories.

Textured, velvety hats dramatically change an entire outfit and if you are lucky enough to live in New Zealand, you can "hire" a fabulous hat for one week from Margot Ardern's Fabulous Fascinator. For anywhere from $15 to $20 (NZ) a week, you can select from a beautiful selection of feminine, sultry and divine hats. Here's are a few of my favorites from their collection.
If only there were a designer doing the same thing in the United States -- hint, hint!

Little Black Dresses for the Holidays


Oh, yes ladies ... it's that time of year again. What are we going to wear to our holiday parties? This year may be particularly challenging if we're being frugal (and isn't that the new rage?).

Whatever is black, sexy, alluring and sensual will more than make up for what is new. If it feels good to wear it, then you're going to look great while you do.

Here's some ideas on how we can come up with a new festive and feminine look -- right from our own closets.


Hello Little Black Dress


Hollywood style sequined lace evening dress, 1930. Fashioned from black Chantilly lace, the dress is embellished with clusters of sparkling black sequins. The neckline, shoulder straps, and peplum hem are bordered with bands of black sequins. While this dress fetched $1,150 at Vintage Textile, you can have it free from your closet.

Here's the look: Start with a black camisole (we all have at least one), pair it with your best fitting, form hugging long black skirt. The creativity comes with accessorizing with black high heels (or black boots), a bolero for the sholders, or long black gloves. Divine!




Sweet Black Sleek

It's very sexy to wear a tight knit sweater top. Take one of your smallish cardigan sweaters and glam it up with something shiny, furry, or colorfully contrasting to whatever color your sweater is. Match the top with a black knit skirt and voila! A sultry diva on the prowl.

Here's two looks to get your imagination going.







Dress To Kill

The dress to kill? It comes in many versions. Pick the one most likely to already be in your closet -- it's the black, shoulder less dress:


These two are available at one of our new favorite stores, White House Black Market. The chemise on the top is going for $168, while the more demure one at bottom is retailing for $148 .

Don't forget to accessorize!

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Shopping Your Closet



I felt like doing a little shopping today, so off I went to my closet. First, I reorganized all my clothes, shoes and accessories as if my closet and drawers were in a tony boutique in a bohemian neighborhood with brick streets. I thought of myself as a shop owner, hoping to attract feminine, chic and creative women -- just like me!

It was quite a bit of work, I must admit. But the results were surprising. I saw my "old" clothes with a fresh eye. Pairing accessories with skirts and blouses that I would not have otherwise thought to put together. It's amazing how easy it had been to get in a rut (that skirt goes with that blouse -- period!).

I discovered some interesting combinations. My favorite purple silk blouse was put together with my dark jeans accessorized with a leather, studded red belt -- and it worked! I discovered my chocolate brown riding boots had some nice trimmed tops that used be hidden underneath every long pair of pants I wore. So, I cuffed my straight leg jeans and - ta da - a whole new look.

What interesting things will you find if you shop in your closet?

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Sweet Dreams, Sweet Diva


How can you not have sweet dreams in this lovely, 1930's Hollywood style nightie? I found a great site for Hollywood glamour negligees. Nice! The pricing of these gowns range from $85 to $175. Check out the Vintage Vixen sight for a shopping spree of similar luxurious, authentic sleepwear. Not so sleepy? Lounge to your heart's delight in front of a warm fire, reading your favorite book -- remember, it's not about spending money, it's about feeling feminine.

Fab Scarves -- Home Made?


Who would have thought that your old wool sweaters, socks or gloves could turn into something so chic?

I found these on Fashion Plate (check it out for diva ideas). Here's what the designer had in mind:

When Jenne Giles began making wearable art, she sought a medium that could combine her love for painterly color, sculptural form, folk art, craft, and electrifying costume. All of this she found in felting.

An ancient craft, felting uses hot water and soap to bind wool fibers together to form a durable fabric. For Jenne Giles, each piece is then worked by hand using rolling, scrubbing, pulling, and cutting to create the final sculptural scarf.

The natural ability of wool to felt can produce unexpected results. Jenne Giles uses the spontaneity of the medium to discover new forms and color effects. Her sophisticated designs are as functional as they are fabulous. The evocative artistry of each piece is matched by impeccable craft.
My favorites:

Window Shopping Is Back

Why give up on one of your favorite past times just because your bank account is out of range?

Window shop! Join your fellow Depressionaire Divas and indulge to your heart's delight, plus get the exercise you know you need.

Feeling the pinch this holiday season? The truth is we all are.

When you can't buy, charge, or spend as much as you would like, the next best thing is looking around.

Holiday cheer comes in all forms, and peering into shopping mall and department store windows never goes out of style, especially when the displays look like the photo above (a Macy's display in Chicago). Check out our gallery of gorgeous window displays from around the nation.


Thanks, LA Times, for the tip!

Our favorite:


Diva Farmwomen


There's even a fashion statement for farmwomen a la depressionaire diva style.

Here's what I found on e-bay:

This farmer's feedsack cotton dress is vintage-depression era style. It is a tiny tulip print number with puff sleeves, sized perfectly for the petite, hardworking, fem-farmer. Bid starts at $35.95.

1930s Style and Silhouettes


Curious about how the Depression era styling may affect current fashion? No need to worry. The transition from 1920s, flapper look, characterized as boxy, androgynous-looking, gave way to a soft, feminine, modest but sultry look. Good news for us Divas!

A softer, more feminine style replaced the boyish, flapper look of the twenties. At the beginning of the decade, hemlines dropped dramatically to the ankle and remained there until the end of the thirties. Necklines were lowered while torsos were sensuously moulded beneath squared shoulders. Darts were replaced by soft gathers. Dress waists returned to the natural waistline. Moderately full skirts accentuated a small waist and minimized the hips. Dress bodices were designed with inset pieces and yokes. Necklines received dramatic attention, often with wide scallop-edged or ruffled collars.
Sounds lovely.

As for silhouettes, Fashion Template (fabulous site for inquiring designers), shares the following from Skaro.com:

Shopping Depressionaire Diva-Style

Not your mother's depression for you! When you shop in these economic times you do with the style of a 21st Century depressionaire diva.

From news in Manhattan:
You know the economy is ailing when a Manhattan fashion boutique starts offering free soup.

The temporary fashion boutique calling itself The 1929 is selling chic clothes and giving away soup and coffee. The store is located in one of the trendiest shopping districts in the city.

Manager and co-owner Aaron Genuth says the store in SoHo was inspired by the Great Depression. His partner Levi Okunov says they want people to go to the store, have a bowl of soup and try on some clothing.

Read more.

Monday, December 15, 2008

Style In My Closet

Ooooh, I love coming across something that I know I can have -- and it's fashionable!

Here's a look within my reach. I have black tights, black shrug boot, and a grey cowl neck sweater. How to get a plaid skirt? Well, I have a black one (who doesn't?) that I'll drape with a plaid shawl. Or, tie a black velvet ribbon around my hips. It might look funky, but it will be different!

Check it out: