As the holidays approach, it’s fun to think of new ways to make the gifts you’re giving stand out. Greta from Greta Guide is here to show us a creative approach to wrapping presents, and lets just say – green has never been so colorful!

So, if you are like me, you probably have a nice collection of cloth bags right about now. It seems like everyone has jumped on the “this is not a plastic bag” wagon- super markets, clothing stores and even my gym! While I think it is great, I worry that all of these cloth bags are becoming a little bit excessive. So, I’ve decided to use my lovely assortment to wrap all my holiday gifts.

Have some bags and want to be on the front end of a new eco-wrapping trend? I thought so! Here’s how:

Set out all of your bags and gifts- matching up sizes and personal tastes for the people you will be gifting. Remember, your gift receivers are not only getting what is inside, but a great bag they can use for their grocery shopping or around town errands. You may even inspire them to turn their cloth bag collection into wrapping for future gift giving.

Next, make sure you have a adequate supply of ribbons. I also like to use fabric scraps to mix in, and when I popped into Purl Patchwork in SoHo they had an ample supply that they graciously gifted to me and my eco- wrapping cause.

You can either place the gift to be wrapped inside the actual bag or use the bag like paper itself. I have demonstrated both ways. The best part about this is that you can be inventive in how you think it should look and how you want to use all your resources.

The colors and patterns of your bags are liable to vary, so to align them with the holiday theme, I suggest using gold or silver ribbon. Also, as hollyhock and other wintery greens become available, I would try tying them in beneath your ribbon to add a little something special.

I hope this inspires you. It is a great way to save money on gift wrapping and make use of the abundance of cloth bags out there while putting your signature on the gifts you give. You can also check out the ‘how-to’ video here!

        

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When it comes to fashion, you’ve got gifts covered. But what about presents of the non-clothing variety? LaToya Drake from AOL and blogger with ReginaLewis.com is here to tell us when and where to find this season’s hottest gifts — beyond the world of apparel.

We haven’t successfully passed Halloween, but walk into any store and you will likely see Christmas decorations on the shelves. Surprise! Tis the season for holiday shopping! Last minute shoppers take note: the National Retail Federation says 40% of consumers are expected to start their holiday shopping before Halloween.

So what’s the best time to start holiday shopping? One word: NOW. Some of the hottest gifts this season are already selling out, and with retailers carefully managing inventory this year, once it’s gone…it’s gone. After being stuck over with excess inventory in 2008, this year many retailers have scaled back their purchases. For consumers that means less merchandise on the shelves, and an emphasis on buy it now vs. later, otherwise you might find yourself out of luck on hot gifts.

You can always count on the Shop it to Me team to provide fashion guidance when it comes to gifts, but here are a few non fashion-related gifts to get now:

Zhu Zhu Pets

Zhu Zhu pets, the season’s hottest toy for kids are sold out at Toys R Us, but you may have luck finding these popular pet hamsters at e-tailers like Amazon.

e-Book Readers

If you’re dying to read or re-read fashionista favorites like The Devil Wears Prada, Twilight or New Moon, then e-readers like the Kindle and the new Sony Reader are for you. Another big release is the iRex e-reader, which will offer books from Barnes & Noble.

Image Source: Amazon

Image Source: Engadget

Image Source: CNET

Other hot gifts to watch out for include:

• Beatles Rock Band
• Faux Fur
• DVD Box Sets

        

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There’s a hungry shoe-lover in all of us, just waiting to be set free! I’m Not Obsessed is here to show you the must-have shoe styles that no woman should be without. Be sure to check out her blog dedicated to providing the latest celebrity gossip, paparazzi photos, pop culture news, beauty & fashion reviews.

I’m a busy gal. Between two kids and running three websites, I need to be prepared for last minute invites to parties and business events. The last thing I need to worry about is whether or not I have shoes to go with my outfit. The easiest solution is to have the following types of shoes in your armory ahead of time.

Jeweled Flats – What better way to spruce up a casual outfit than with a great pair of jeweled flats? This season, it’s all about adding a little something extra to your accessories. These shoes are a great way to boost a casual outfit. (Jeffrey Campbell ‘Jewel 2′ Flat $109)

Knee High Boots – Skinny jeans aren’t going anywhere. Neither are pencil skirts. Make sure you have a great pair of knee high boots (in both black and brown). (Dolce Vita Women’s Jake Knee High Boot $159)

Red Pumps – What an easy way to breathe new life into your LBD? Pair it with some really fabulous red high heels. It’s a great way to stand out without looking like you are trying too hard. (Yves Saint Laurent Eelskin Pumps $875)

Rain Boots – Running to grab a cup of coffee? Late grabbing the kids from school? Is it a gloomy kind of day? Throw on a pair of rain boots during the winter months and stop worrying about those puddles. (Hunter Original Rain Boot – Green $115)

Ankle boots – These are my favorite shoes of the season. You can work them into any outfit. Skinny jeans, skirts, dresses, leggings – you name it. Stay on top (or ahead) of the trend. (Brian Atwood Miri leather ankle boots $750)

The bootie – Peep toe ankle bootie are just so hot! This pair is metallic too. Is it possible to be so in love with an inanimate object? (Elizabeth and James Lola $750)

The casual boot – When you want to be rugged while remaining feminine, the casual pull on boot is the way to go. My absolute favorite line for these types of boots is Frye. I’ve been wearing them since I was a sophomore in High School. They last for YEARS and are well worth the price. (FRYE Women’s Campus $234)

        

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Being fashionable at a price you can afford has never been easier! Low Brow Style is here to show you where to find 5 fabulous fall trends – all for under $100 a pop! Be sure to check out her blog where fashion can be funny and a potty mouth can be charming.

If you are reading this blog chances are you love fashion and a good deal. These pieces can update your wardrobe or you can mix and match nearly all these pieces together for a fun, funky and eclectic look.

Florals

A sweet feminine floral is a great way to girlie up even the edgiest outfit. My favorites are from Victoriassecret.com. They have beautiful, lux, floral blouses with the most adorable details all around $50.

Throw this on with a pair of skinny trousers, a pencil skirt or boyfriend jeans and top if off with one of falls trend fall blazers, bombers or trenches.

Boyfriend Blazers

Find the right boyfriend blazer can be tricky; finally some great affordable options have become available.

The blazer above is from Zara and costs just under $80. It is slimmer fitting that most boyfriend blazers I have tried on this fall and looks a lot more polished.

Black Denim

You MUST try Gap’s Premium Denim. I cannot say enough for the fit and quality of these jeans.

I have been trying on skinny-black-ankle jeans for about a month now and these were far and away the best fit. They range in price from $60-70 and are well worth it.

Bib Necklace

Throw one of these on with a tee, jeans and heels and you are ready for date night. Below is my favorite from Anthropologie.

This necklace is on the pricier range at $80. Check out sites and store like lulus.com and Forever21 for more options.

Oxfords

I beg you to try these. Dress up a casual outfit or look simply precious pairing these with your favorite fall dress.

These oxfords by Steve Madden still have a feminine shape and the patent leather gives them an updated look.

        

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‘Tis the season for Pumpkin Spice Lattes, gingerbread cookies, and other tasty treats to help us stay warm and cozy for the holidays. Holly Gofabulously is here just in time to share her oh-so-delicious Apple-Fabulous Dumplings recipe! Be sure to check our her blog dedicated to the search for intelligent life with fashion sense!

With the recent release of The American Fashion Cookbook (Assouline), it is officially chic to spend time in the kitchen (at least briefly)! Published with the Council of Fashion Designers of America, this blend of couture and cooking includes such intriguing recipes as Isaac Mizrahi’s Mushroom Truffle Spaghetti, Victor Costa’s Vidalia Onion Crustless Tarte and Tory Burch’s Andalusian Gazpacho, to name a few! Sadly, Holly Gofabulously’s Apple-Fabulous Dumplings were excluded (clearly an oversight)! Fortunately for fans of Shop it To Me, I’ve included my recipe here, for your Fall dining pleasure. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

4 Golden Delicious apples (Honey Crisp Apples are also great, for those who love a super-sweet dessert)

1/2 cup white sugar

1/2 cup light brown sugar

1/2 cup honey

1 cup water

1 teaspoon vanilla (I recommend the highest quality pure vanilla extract. I prefer Nielsen-Massey!)

butter

cinnamon

Pre-made pie crusts (I prefer Pillsbury, which can be found in the refrigerated section of your grocery store! )

Peel apples with potato peeler. Remove the cores with a small knife, but try to keep the apples whole. Use butter to grease an 8×8” baking dish, and set aside. Unwrap the refrigerated pie crust and cut into 4 equal pieces. Cook both sugars, honey, water, vanilla and 1 tablespoon of butter in a small pan for about 10 minutes on medium, stirring occasionally. Set aside.

Put all 4 pieces of pie crust in the 8×8 baking dish and lay an apple on each. Fill the center of the apple with some white sugar and cinnamon. Then fold the crusts up around the apple. Gently pour the hot liquid over and around the apples. Set aside extra to be used as a sauce over the baked dumplings. Bake at 350 degrees for about 50 minutes (until crusts are turning brown and liquid is bubbling). Let cool, but remember that these are fantastic served warm, with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream!

        

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Who says blazers are boring? With all these styles – impossible! La:Dolce:Vita is here to show us why the blazer is not just your ordinary jacket. Be sure to check out the haven on inspiration featuring editorials, campaigns, and our ideal looks!

Without a doubt, the Blazer is the most versatile and highly coveted item of the season. Adaptable for it’s wearability from day to night by dressing it up or down, and highly coveted because, well, we’re all after that chic and fabulous look. The Blazer isn’t some new invention; it’s a trend that has been in fashion forever, but this time around it’s more tailored and sleek and commands the attention of the “whole look.” I saved you guys some time by sifting through all the great styles, and shapes to narrow down the 5 must-have blazers of the season with two options in each category.

1. The Tuxedo Blazer: Usually very tailored and close to the body, cropped in a fabric with a sheen finish like leather or satin. Can be worn with accompanying tuxedo pants for a complete look, or dress it down with wide leg jeans.

Option 1: Forever 21 Dressy Tux Blazer- 22.80 @ Forever21.com

Option 2: Torn by Ronny Kobo Saba Leather Tuxedo Blazer @ Shopbop.com for $330.00

2. The Sequin Blazer: A flashback from the ’80s but worn with simple hair, few accessories, and toned down make-up creates an updated look. To avoid looking overly extravagant, the sequin blazer should be the dressiest part of the look. Go with bright gold, bronze, black or silver sequins.

Option 1: Antik Batik Classic Wallace Sequin Jacket in Gold @ Revolveclothing.com for $415.00

Option 2: Free People Black Sequin Blazer @ Freepeople.com for $168.00

3. The Boyfriend Blazer: Already a modern classic, wear this pretty much any way you want. Slim fit jeans or skinnies would do the trick.

Option 1: Boyfriend Woolie Jacket @ Freepeople.com for $168

Option 2: Silence & Noise Tweed Boyfriend Blazer @ Urbanoutfitters.com for $49.99

4. Knit Blazer: Unquestionably a casual and fun item to wear on the weekends. Looks great with light washed baggy, slashed boyfriend jeans.

Option 1: Trouve’ Double Knit Boyfriend Blazer @ Nordstom.com for $88.00

Option 2: The Battalion Equestrian Blazer in Slate @ Revolveclothing.com for $363.00

5. Strong Shoulder Blazer: Balmainesque indeed! Strong shoulders say you are powerful, sexy, and demand attention.

Option 1: Robert Rodriguez Ruffle Shoulder Jacket @ Nordstrom.com for $495.00

Option 2: Gryphon Collarless Sequin Sleeve Blazer in Black @ Singers22.com for $545.00

        

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Being adventurous with your style doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Never nix a trend because because of it’s semi-impracticality again! It’s Trendsetter Thursday, and Justine from Fetching Fashions is here to show you how to try out five fun looks, all for under $100 a pop! Be sure to check out her blog dedicated to featuring affordable, trendy looks, all while revealing a snippet of her personal quest maneuvering in the world of style.

You know what I hate?

When people dismiss a trend before they even try it.

So before you dismiss some of these trends, lovies, take a look at their possibilities. Here are some of my takes on this season’s love/hate trends. To make them affordable, none of the pieces used were more than $100. (Recessionistas rejoice!)

1. THE SEQUIN LEGGING

Sure. A little gaudy. But ever since I saw Project-Runway-queen Heidi Klum sporting this look, I knew I had to try it for myself. Here are two tips: 1) Keep it classy. Since glitter can be juvenile, pair your sparkles with some elegance. Neutral colors, flowy fabrics, and a little of that je ne sais quoi will take you far. 2) No overboard on the bling. You have a leg full of sequins. Keep the bling to a minimal.

(Forever 21 Sequin leggings: $15)

2. MAD FOR PLAID

I’ll be honest, the word brings to mind two things: bad ’90s grunge and farmers tans. However, done right, this look can be very charming. If you’re plaid-shy, try a clutch, scarf, or even headband to spice up your jeans and tee look.

(Arden B Plaid dress: $58)

3. BROGUES WITH FEMININITY

I love this trend. However, I can imagine many feeling iffy about a man’s shoe. “Last season’s oxford booties are one thing,” the doubter may say. “But a flat, uninspired lace up shoe? No thank you.” Au contraire, this season’s brogues are anything but uninspired. Bonus: this shoe goes from day to night in a split.

(Joy and Alexandre Herchcovitch Jelly Oxford: $100)

4. THE STRUCTURED SHOULDER

The classicist might feel this style is too reminiscent of the ’80s and not versatile. But a structured shoulder can be subtle enough to last a lifetime. It’s all about angles with this trend, so when styling it, pay attention to the architecture of the outfit. A straight bottom goes well, so try a pencil skirt or some skinny jeans.

(Topshop Belted Shoulder Blazer: $72)

5. FAUX LEATHER

Now, I know there are haters out there. But, I think this can look adorable with the right pairings. You could edge it up: a black and white abstract printed shirt with a patterned tight and pretty studded heels. Even a pleather legging substituted for a cotton legging with a neutral tunic would look smashing on a lunch/shopping date. Below we have a little lolita, a little nice-girl, a lot of oh-la-la (p.s. – tights optional)….

(Forever 21 Pleather Skirt: $20)

        

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Lets face it – we all pick up habits from our parents. Whether it’s your mom’s neatness or your dad’s sense of humor, they’ve likely influenced, in one way or another, the person you’ve become. La Vita E Bella is here to talk how her parents’ shopping habits rubbed off. Be sure to check out her blog dedicated to the ups and downs of being a young lady, fashion, politics, and literary discussion!

When I look at pictures of myself from younger years, before I had control over what I wore, I realize I was a classically dressed little girl. My mother always had me in smocked dresses, good shoes and yarn hair bows that adorned my long brunette locks. But then the photos change. There is suddenly a young lady with a short bob and practical pieces. My mother says she got tired of doing my hair and took me one day to chop it off. And let me tell you, the short chic bob is still my favorite hair style. But I digress; my parents really taught me that classic, timeless, quality pieces were the best to have in a wardrobe.

I have great memories of my dad leaving for work in his Burberry trench coat which he had for many years (and may still have). I relived that memory when I purchased my Burberry Snap Front Quilted Jacket in Fall of 2004 in Washington DC. It is timeless and I wear it all the time and the fact that Burberry still makes it tells me that it is classic. Still when I am shopping with my mother she is quick to remind me that purchasing one or two classic pieces is a much better in the long run than purchasing more trendy pieces that will be in my “donate to charity pile” in 3 months.

        

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With October just a few days away, dropping temperatures may have us feeling  a bit gloomy. Tamera from Tha Lookbook is here to turn our frowns upside down with a timely reminder of just how fabulous fall fashion is! Be sure to check out her blog with articles on fashion, beauty, new designers, music, and personal diaries on how she fashionably deals with day-to-day catastrophes!

‘Top of the Season’ to all ladies and gents! After only two great weeks of summer in New York, fall has approached faster than we expected. But as far as I’m concerned, I’ve been looking forward to it. Compared to the summer season when we dress to stay as cool as possible with as few layers as possible, fall is actually a time to wear your best layering pieces and accessories. Don’t believe me? Here are a few more reasons why fall is a great season for fashion.

1. Fall fashion is more extravagant this season than ever.

Seeing designers’ perspectives of fall fashion is always talk of the town during New York Fashion Week, but this season designers brought the fun back into fashion, covering almost every trend and taking it to the next level. The ’80s were exaggerated at Marc Jacobs, exaggerated shoulders at Balmain, lingerie was the talk on the Miu Miu runway, models in thigh high leather boots with mini skirts strutted down the Louis Vuitton runway in Paris and the heel-less platform shoes at Nina Ricci were the talk of the town. There are so many trends to tackle this fall that you will not be able to resist.

Clockwise from top left: Louis Vuitton, Miu Miu, Marc Jacobs, Nina Ricci

2. You can wear your favorite, scarf, sweater, jeans, coat, boots, jewelry and gloves all at one given time.

Compared to the summer where you would only wear one article of clothing and run out of the house, you actually have to bundle up in the fall. The great part about that is you can layer up your favorite summer dress with a chunky sweater and colorful tights with platform boots.

J. Crew

3. It’s a great excuse to cover up “love-handles” from those delectable holiday gatherings.

Of course, you will not say this aloud, but I will. With Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s a month a part, you’re bound to eat all of the bountiful spoils. Thankfully, there are adorable wraps and sweater dresses that will cover that unforgivable pouch. Do not worry though, that’s why there are New Year’s Resolutions.

        

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Saying goodbye to Summer isn’t always easy, but having a fabulous Fall wardrobe certainly takes the edge off. Our Trendsetter Jeri from Pink & Posh is here to share a few of her favorite stylish textures for Fall! Be sure to check out their blog on keeping up with the latest trends for yourself, your family, and your home.

As the seasons change, so do our wardrobes. With Fall quickly approaching, it’s out with the light weight fabrics and in with the warmer and more textured materials. Some of my favorite textures for fall 2009 are seen by designers and brands including 1. Christian Siriano, 2. Rag & Bone and 3. Yigal Azrouel.

The Textures:

Wool

Wool is a versatile material that has been used over the years to be a practical, and more recently, fashion forward material for staying warm while showing a unique style. There are many materials you may recognize that are made from authentic wool such as chenille, flannel and tweed. Adding wool to your wardrobe is as much an investment as a fashion statement. It will be in style for years to come.

Cashmere

As comfortable as it is gorgeous, Cashmere is one of my favorite Fall textures. A classic cashmere sweater takes me back to sitting by the fire with a pair of super thick socks while drinking my grandmother’s hot chocolate… yummy! Authentic cashmere is a bit expensive, but there are several affordable alternatives to this fabric such as cotton, cotton flannel, polyester fleece, and synthetic shearling.

Leather

Leather is another classic texture for fall -  for practical purposes as well as trendy ones. Designers have done so many things with leather which leaves you with lots of ways to incorporate it into your wardrobe. I keep a leather jacket, a pair of skinny leather pants and of course knee-high and bootie leather boots in my closet. No matter what is in style that year, all of these pieces will coordinate my style with the current trends.

Silk & Satin

Instead of cleaning out your silk and satin tops and dresses, I would suggest wearing them with any of the other Fall textures, such as wool or leather. But, if you are looking for the perfect colors for Fall, I would choose a deep purple, gold or maroon. All of these colors scream fall fashion, and what better way to make a statement than with a super feminine material when all your friends will be adorning their thickest knitted sweaters.

Metal

Whether its sequins, studs, or jewelry, the metal look is definitely one I love. A harder texture that gives a youthful appearance, metal is a great way to show your personality. You could be a girly girl or a hard rocker and get away with adding a little metal to your style.

Denim

A given texture for every season, denim is a casual texture that can be worn almost anywhere. The pieces I would suggest for fall would be a great denim jacket or vest, and the perfect pair of wide leg, slim boot cut or my favorite, skinny jeans all in darker washes.

These are just a few of my favorites, but there are many textures for Fall that make for the perfect fashion statement. One of my favorite things to do with any of these textures is to mix, match and layer them. Be sure to choose the textures and colors that best suit your personality and situation and you will be an instant Fall Fashionista!

Photo credits: www.elle.com, www.bluefly.com

        

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