Spring 2013 Trends For Less

Like any other fashionphile that follows runway shows religiously, I always lust after the sumptuous fabrics and exciting prints that strut down the catwalk. Unfortunately my bank account is not very fond of my love affair with designer clothing. I do catch a few brands on super sale, but I want to be able to emulate the most popular trends without breaking the bank. So I've decided to put together a looks for less guide with the help of Style.com's Spring 2013 Trend Report.

Most of the items I've pulled together are under $100.


1. Contrasting Views

Contrasting Views: Spring 2013 Trends for Less by heartslanna featuring short sleeve shirts

                         

The monochromatic look isn't going anywhere according to the S/S 2013 runways. And luckily for fashionistas on a budget, many of the major retailers have caught on.  My favorite piece that stays in line with this trend is the awesome asymmetrical skirt by NastyGal. The best part? It's less than $40! I think that is an unbeatable steal. And if you're afraid of prints, keep it simple by pairing a black tee with white jeans. You can also be on trend by snagging those amazing b&w striped Zara heels.




2. All Ruffled Up

All Ruffled Up: Spring 2013 Trends for Less by heartslanna featuring a zara skirt

                    

This is personally my favorite Spring 2013 trend. I am very girly and love the idea of wearing ruffles well into the summer. This is also good news for all fans of the peplum, which seems to be around for the long run. However, drop waist peplum tops are the new way to update last year's popular trend. Drop waist skirts and dresses are also perfect flirty pieces to add to your spring wardrobe. My favorite piece is the black and white peek-a-boo skirt from Zara. It's reminiscent of the dramatic ruffles seen on Balenciaga's runway, but it's only a fraction of the cost!


3. The Suit Life 

The Suit Life: Spring 2013 Trends for Less by heartslanna featuring stripe pants

   

If ruffles aren't your thing, then this Spring 2013 trend might be a great alternate. These daring ensembles from the Saint Laurent and Jonathan Sanders are easy to emulate for the every day girl. There has been an abundance of bright colored trousers and blazers in stores lately, so it should be a piece of cake to create your own boardroom look without spending a ton of cash. I love the idea of a double breasted ruffled (!) blazer with white slacks for a Miami cool look. And for the more daring girls, why not try a head to toe fire engine red look? But I must say, my favorite look is the sleeveless tuxedo blazer with the geometric printed pants. It's not your typical suit but it's chic and unexpected. And those blue Zara pumps? To die for.



4. Sheer Imagination 

Sheer Imagination: Spring 2013 Trends for Less by heartslanna featuring a long sheer skirt

                        

If you're a fan of everything ethereal and feminine, then this trend is definitely for you. Sheer looks have been on the shelves for months now, but update the trend with soft colors or bright neons. Pull together some of these looks and you'll look like a fairy nymph in no time. And for the more daring girls, try the sexy dress with a sheer hem by NastyGal. It's similar to the amazing dress Akris showed, but at only $48 it's much more attainable.



5. Mixed Media

Mixed Media: Spring 2013 Trends for Less by heartslanna featuring river island

             

This is my second favorite trend of the season. I must admit that I have been wary of mixing prints in the past but have finally embraced the trend and I am loving it. To avoid looking like you got dressed in the dark, try to stay within in the same color scheme. I love the black and pink bustier paired with the multi-print mini skirt. Since they are feature pastel colors you'll be able to pull the look off without looking over the top. It's also easy and fun to match prints with a solid embellished top. The palm printed shorts will stand out against the black studded top. It's a perfect mix of resort-chic and rocker-cool. And if you're still wary of the trend like I was, splurge on a beautifully printed Diane von Furstenberg print dress. She is infamous for her amazing prints and can satisfy any craving you have to be a little daring. You can also dabble with the trend by incorporating printed bags and shoes into your every day outfits. The most important thing about this trend is to have fun!



I am very excited to try out a few of these trends as soon as the weather becomes friendly again. Which ones are you going to try?

xoxoxoxoxo
-Lanna

BCBG Resort 2013

BCBG recently posted the looks for their 2013 resort collection and all I have to say is...ohmygawd. I absolutely love the direction BCBG has been going in lately and they do not disappoint with their latest collection. I'm so in love with on the of the dresses that I plan on saving up to buy it and wear it every day of my life--I kid but since it will cost a ton, I might as well. Photos are below.

And finally....the gorgeous dress that I am probably going to drop an obscene amount of money on. But look at it! Can you blame me?

Absolutely gorgeous right? Which look is your favorite?
xoxoxoxo, Alanna

Dreamin of New York

I know I am really bad at posting and I am trying to get better, but work is so demanding I hardly have time post! Anyways, I am always thinking of New York and I am so happy to be going for my birthday at the end of this month. Since it is the fashion capital of the US (in my opinion the world, but I know people will disagree) I want to look my very best while wandering around the city. Here are some looks I want to rock while there.

New York Look #1 by heartslanna featuring floral tops

For my first look, I really wanted to go with a classic look ladylike look that will be stylish but still easy to walk around in. I feel the kitten heels would be comfortable enough to walk around in. I bought a really cut bra top to wear with a full skirt and can't wait to wear it.

New York Look #2 by heartslanna featuring flat sandals

The second look will be for the day I plan to do a lot of walking. I love maxi skirts and will wear my version with a mint green top and brown accessories. And no boho-chic outfit is complete without piling on gold accessories and RayBans.

New York Look #3 by heartslanna featuring ray ban eyewear

My final look will be best for the hottest day while I'm there. I love the idea of mixing corals, pinks, and green. And there is nothing better in my opinion than boots and shorts. My friends say that is very L.A. of me and I guess I agree. Even though it's a billion degrees here in Georgia I can't help but wear my favorite high waisted shorts with my cowboy boots. It's an obesssion. Anyways, I'll top off my look with my fabulous panama hat I snagged at Target for $12!

Can't wait to go! What would you guys wear on a late summer trip to NYC?

xoxoxoxo
ALanna

Wednesday Wishlist

                                      1.  2.  3.  4.  5.  6.  7.  8. 

It's my first Wednesday Wishlist! I'm going to stick to items that are reasonably affordable but every now and again I'll do a Wild Wednesday Wishlist for those high priced items that I would love to have in my closet. I have been obsessing over these items lately (especially the Zara shoes, they make the cutest shoes!) and hopefully I can get a few soon. I'm thinking of renting the BCBG dress from Rent The Runway for my birthday trip to NYC.

Bloglovin

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Lusting for Leather

Lusting for Leather by heartslanna featuring a leather pencil skirt

It's not even the official beginning of summer and I am already lusting over leather looks to add to my wardrobe. I know it is way too soon to be thinking about my fall wardrobe but this is actually a great time to start snatching up fall items for a bargain. And I have no problem wearing items that are considered "last season" because I believe a lot of those looks will translate into Fall 2012.

The main leather item that I really desire is a nice pair of leather pants/leggings. I am not super skinny so it is really hard to find items that will fit my thighs and calves and this has proven to be a great struggle for me. I have found a few items that might work but won't know until I try them on. I plan on wearing them with everything from t-shirts to dressy tops and hopefully a pair of those awesome Isabel Marant wedge sneakers (which I can't even believe I like--I'm more of a heels and flats kind of girl).

I also want a leather pencil skirt and a leather pleated skirt. I love wearing skirts in the fall/winter with tights and boots. And since I hope we'll actually have a Fall here in the South I want to have these before the first sign of the leaves changing.

So what do you think? Is it way too soon for me to be lusting for leather?

xoxoxoxo
-Lanna

Mad for Maxis

I am addicted to maxi skirts. They have become a favorite fashion item of mine lately and even though I am a measly 5'3" they make me look taller than I am. I especially love maxi skirts because you can create your own custom floor length gowns using one! What better way to get a unique dress for a fraction of the cost. They are also great for those days when you just want to be casual and roam around town. I wear them a lot to work as well and I always get compliments. Here are a few looks featuring maxi skirts.

Mad For Maxis--Look One by heartslanna featuring retro shades

Look one is a really trendy and casual look that can be thrown on for a day of errands. I like the idea of mixing a cute floral top with the stripes and a denim button up. Totally casual and totally cute.

Mad for Maxis-Look Two by heartslanna featuring a maxi skirt

Look two incorporates some of my favorite trends of the moment. I absolutely love the boho/earth friendly hipster look and this outfit incorporates neutral tones and an insanely fun maxi skirt. And why not throw in some rocker chic biker boots for fun?  If you're feeling extra playful, knot the shirt at the waist to show a little skin and ditch the belt. Top off the look with turquoise and coral jewelry. Add some cool aviator sunnies and you are ready to go. Beach ready hair is optional. 

Mad For Maxis-Look 3 by heartslanna featuring black earrings

Now for the formal looks. I love the idea of making your own custom gown out of separates. This pleated maxi skirt is in a deep jewel tone that lends itself for a fancier occasion. And adding a structrually interesting top makes it look like a unique creation. If you're going for a separates look, throw on a belt to tie everything together. Add art deco inspired jewelry and you're ready to party.

Mad For Maxis--Look Four by heartslanna featuring rhinestone jewelry

I feel as if some maxi skirts are made for black tie events and this draped beauty is definitely one of them. Add a draped top for extra flair and finish the look with an amazing structured necklace and emerald earrings. And if you're feeling extra fancy throw on some glittery shoes that will leave you ready to dance the night away!

So now you know how to wear maxis for the day or night! Have fun going mad for maxis!

xoxoxoxo