This outfit is for my friend Ashley, but I want it all for myself!
Ashley: Amazing artist and avant-garde woman, she’s fond of cool colors and unique pieces.
View her art : AshleyOubré.com

Bronze deco clutch-Stuart Weitzman-$250.00
Artist bangle-Anthropologie-$128.00
Dark Denim Jeans-Forever21-$34.80
Striped Metallic Top-F.C.U.K.-$79.99 **
Heart Bracelet-Emitations-$24.99
Earrings-Nordstrom-$32.00**
Belt-Linea Pelle-$205.00
Shoe: Steven : $116.06

**Item is currently sold out online, click the item in the collage for the store locator page.

I know…I missed a day. Okay, I missed TWO. I apologize, things have been frantically busy and admittedly, and I got caught up in all the Academy Award hype on Sunday instead of slaving over a hot computer preparing an outfit. Anyone out there have an Oscar party? Monday was a day full of errands and navigating slushy, snow-lined streets, which led to the inspiration of today’s posting. I wanted to prove that you can always be chic, even in cold weather! I adore this outfit because even though it seems simple, the fantastic fit of the garments along with unique elements in every piece are oh so stylish. Let’s begin with the adorable, fitted sweater, with its elegant vintage neckline and whimsical button detailing. Yum. Unfortunately, the sweater has sold out online, but you may be able to find it in stores; the item name is “Kelly". Click the sweater in the collage for store locations. The pants have a 33-inch inseam and are made of a fluid, wool blend I think the L.A.M.B. bag is simply gorgeous. The boots look great with the pants and the sparkly, black, knit beret adds a fun touch while keeping you warm and in style. Finally, the beautiful tweed trench in a charmingly subtle plaid print creates a shapely silhouette and ties the ensemble together and is light enough to take you into early spring. Did I mention it’s only 49 bucks?! Happy Shopping!

Wide Leg Pinstripe Pants-Max Studio-$148
Boot-Stuart Weitzman -$335.00
Hat-Urban Outfitters-$38.00
Purse-L.A.M.B.-$775.00
Sweater-Delia’s-$21.50
Jacket-Hotkiss-$49.00
Ring-Noir-$46.00

I was so inspired by many of the trends for Spring/Summer 2007 that I decided to add a new element to my blog that I call "Trendspirations." No, it's not a word, but I think it's very fitting. Interpreting trends both literally and figuratively into wearable ensembles can be quite a challenge, but the outcome is often rewarding, case in point, our first outfit in this installment.



I want every piece! Key words for this look are sophisticated and modern. I kept the accessories very simple....smooth, sleek, clean lines. If you must wear more jewelry,think minimalism, and I recommend wearing silver.The breathtaking shirt is the center of the outfit. With its silk floral details and amazing shade of royal blue, you will be the center of attention wherever you wear it. Don’t forget to use your coupon code “Preen” so save 20% on the top, which is from fashion chateau . com! I like the versatility of this ensemble; Wear it with a fitted blazer and black patent pumps to work or swap the pants for tailored white shorts and the satchel for a simple black clutch and you have an amazing look to hit the clubs in. Happy Shopping!

Sandal-“Delovely” Stuart Weitzman-225.00
Waist Belt-Elegantly Waisted-$285.00
Top-Rebecca Taylor-$211.00 (Use Coupon Code "Preen" to save 20% )
Ring-Emitations-$54.99
Purse-Laundry-$198.00
Pants-YA-YA-$230.00

Welcome to round two of the birthday outfit preliminaries. I have been cursed with ADD when it comes to matters of wardrobe and deciding what to wear—so many combinations, so little time! Here’s another look I favor for my party. The boots have long since been sold out at Payless, but I’m sure anyone interested enough could find a replica worthy of this amazing ensemble. Anna Sui provides us with another winning party dress, this time in a baby-doll silhouette with black lace over a flesh toned bodice. This look is decidedly less girly and more rock and roll glam. The faux snake skin purse breaks up the black just a bit and adds a hint of edginess. I love this look! I can't decide between the two, maybe I'll have to just buy everything. The opaque tights with the ankle boots (and their cute detailing) make this look...and how darling is the cameo bracelet by Juicy Couture? I'm so in love with it, but then I have a thing for black jewelry...(and animal print in case you hadn't noticed).

So, My birthday was January 9th, (21 again woo-hoo!), and I wanted to do the usual: get dolled up, get together with friends and proceed to party until dawn. However,it was frigidly cold around the time and the weather has been continuously grotesque, cold and messy until about..oh, I don’t know,…today! Now that March is looming ever so enticing and near, I’ve been so inspired by all the pretty spring frocks that I’ve decided to officially move my birthday to Spring. Party Time, Last Weekend in March! Of course, with a date in mind, the age old question of what to wear begs to be answered, and thus, this entry has been given life.

What can I say about this delightful Anna Sui dress? It's perfectly girly, the print is beautiful, whimsical and young, and the cut is very flattering and sophisticated--what great balance. The earrings are an ideal match, and the choice in shoe is dead-on; from the gold buckle detail on the ankle straps, to the simple and smooth modern lines of the gorgeous, satin-covered, stiletto heel. As soon as I saw this dress, I knew immediately that I'd be pairing it with a Charles David shoe. The mesh bracelet was too pretty to pass up and the vintage feel of the gold and silver ring ties all of the elements together quite nicely. This is ELEGANCE and style at it's best. Happy Birthday to me, and Happy Shopping to all of you!

Something that I love about this outfit is that it will look great on a variety of body types; short or small, curvy, tall….I also think it’s something that looks stylish without overdoing it, and sexy without showing too much skin for those of you adverse to such things. The gold jewelry is an unexpected choice and a great accent to the richness of the copper brown hues of the top and smooth chocolate of the satin pumps. The purse ties the three main colors of the palette together nicely while keeping the outfit funky and individual. While everything can be worn without the stocking, I think it adds a certain pièce de resistance. Where would you wear this outfit? Be part of our new Where to Wedneday poll ; Let us know where you'd wear this outfit, and as always, happy shopping!

Here is the first of what shall be many entries that I call, “The 200 Dollar Challenge.” I will try my best to create an up to date, fashionable and wearable outfit for two hundred bucks or less. This particular outfit came in with money to spare at $194.05 and has many trendy yet practical staples to expand your wardrobe; delicate peep toe pumps in the softest yellow shade, a sheer black blouse accented with a layered black necklace can be worn a million different ways. The hounds-tooth plaid shorts are surprisingly versatile. This thrifty look is topped off nicely with a classic trench, which is accentuated with a clever thin white trim for a modern monochromatic edge. Pin your two toned vintage inspired brooch on your jacket and you have a look that’s easy on the eyes and the wallet.

Suede Pumps-Steve Madden-89.95
Gold and Onyx Brooch-1928-$15.20
Necklace-Forever 21-$9.80
Shorts-Forever 21-$22.80
Top-Forever21-$19.80
Jacket-Wet Seal-$36.50

These subtle, cool tones will help you usher in spring with style and comfort. The white corset belt is a bit of a splurge but it’s worthy because it’s a terrific piece that I’m sure you will use all summer. Here’s a tip: Invest wisely in pieces that you will get a lot of use out if. The soft baby blue and gray V neck dress is versatile enough to wear casually with flip flops or dress up with a fitted jacket, white and silver accessories, and a great pair of stilettos or silver flats. Don’t forget to use your “Preen” coupon code for the splendid dress. Happy Shopping!



Sky and Grey Striped Dress-Splendid-$88.00 (Fashion Chateau)
Earrings-Kenneth Cole Reaction-$25.00
Corset Belt- Leatherock-$175.00
Bangle-Ralph Lauren-$58.00
Denim Jacket-Guess-$98.00
Bag-Nine West -$75.95
Shoes- Guess-$99.95
Ring-Nadri-$38.00

The sexiest, most wonderfully done wing tips I’ve ever seen, were the inspiration for this entire outfit. The metallic gold and white tank looks exceptional when accented with this skinny black patent belt, worn high on the waist and the gorgeous charm necklace by Betsey Johnson. Add a hint of crimson with a thin strap bra by Cosabella. The deep indigo rinse of the slim ankle length jeans really complement the gold, red, black and white color palette. They are found at Fashion Chateau, which means you can use my coupon code “Preen” for an additional 20% off. The large quilted bag black bag accented with gold studs is also a Fashion Chateau.com item. Finally, add a trio of pretty white, gold ,and red bangles to perfect the look.

Jeans-575 Denim -$198 (Fashion Chateau)
Bag -Deux Lux -$88.00(Fashion Chateau)
Skinny Belt-Urban Outfitters-$24.00
Necklace- Betsey Johnson-$85.00
Bangles-Urban Outfitters-20.00
Shoes-D Squared-$322.00
Top-Forever21-$11.80
Bra-Cosabella-$36.00

For People Who don't care to read my blog and just like looking at the pretty pictures, here's what i'm prattling on about below although I don't know if I should really reward people that don't like reading, hmmm.
Here you go:

Dearest Savvy Shoppers,

I am sad to report that I will not be able to post today because of technical issues that I am working on correcting as soon as possible, and will be back the second everything is back in working order.And not to worry my pretties, I would never bail on you! I will be back soon with lots of lovely frocks for you to drool over once again. In the meantime enjoy these gifts that I have so genially decided to bestow upon you (read: bribe to ensure you check back soon as we are still in the incipient stages of this site...there's LOTS in store for you ;)

Presents:


Our new friends at the ever so glorious and hip Fashion Chateau are giving Queen of Preen readers an exclusive sale. They have a very classic and trendy feel, lots of quick loading views of garments, and an easy to navigate,neatly organized delightful place to shop online. Click the coupon below to go to the site; enter "Preen" as your checkout code to save 20%! Run, now...enjoy =)


P.S. That amazing Ella Moss Dress featured in the Valentines Day Date outfit below happens to be at le Fashion Chateau. If you've ever worn an Ella Moss dress you know that it is the most comfortable blend of jersey and cotton and quite frankly, feels perfect! I love my Ella Moss dresses so much I'm often tempted to sleep in them--yes they are that comfortable, but we can just keep that a secret between us girls, now can't we?

A few of the GORGEOUS new Spring 2007 Looks, Yum!

Which looks would you like me to reinvision on a budget? Comment or write!

Frankly, Valentine’s Day hasn’t held much significance for me since grade school. There was nothing magical about eating stale conversation hearts while sipping watered down pink punch and wringing my hands in anticipation as valentines were doled out into construction paper mailboxes and then subsequently counted; the results being the ultimate measure of popularity and one’s individual importance. I never won. Albeit, what I relished about the day was the fact that it was one of the holidays in which we were granted a "free dress pass." For the sum of two dollars dutifully paid to the schoolteacher, along with a signed permission slip, we instantly gained complete creative freedom of apparel (within strictly enforced guidelines of course). Being permitted to wear whatever I wanted, to shed the imagination-stifling, drab, green and yellow plaid catholic school jumper, was a cherished pleasure. I can still remember gleefully searching year after year for the hippest dresses and sweaters in that perfect shade of hot pink or red along with coordinating socks and gasp— even scrunchies. (Yes, I have always been neurotic when it comes to fashion) Presently, I no longer care for collecting cards dripping with manufactured sentiment. I’ve also developed an odd aversion to most candy, but that’s another issue. I still love dressing up, and while most market this holiday to people in couples, I have decided to turn the tables and give you options! I have not one, but two sans scrunchie looks suitable for a romantic dinner and dancing date, or a merry celebration of singledom with your dearest friends. And since my Internet is evil, I have resorted to compiling and posting this entry via a dialup connection. Now, if that isn’t true love folks, well, I’m not quite sure I know what is. Happy V-Day darlings!

Outfit 1
Button Up Satchel-Betsey Johnson-$265.00
Heart Pocket Jeans-Frankie B-$196.00
Cardigan-Forever 21-About$28.00**
T-Strap Pumps-Forzieri-$338.00
Keyhole Top-Wet Seal-$14.50**
Locket-Betsey Johnson-$48.00
Trouser Socks-FootTraffic-$7.00







Outfit 2
I call them "Butterfly Stilettos"-Forzieri-$365.00
Reversible Cashmere Shawl-Basile-$115.00
Amber and Gold Earrings-Forzieri-$85.00
Studded Clutch-Calvin Klein-$198.95
Leaf Cuff-Anthropology-$128.00
Dress-Ella Moss-$154.00
Ring- Nadri-$48.00


**Both these items are sold out in the online stores, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find them in your local shops. Click on the items to go to the respective store locator pages. Good luck on your search

Random Fact: The Greeting Card Association estimates that approximately one billion valentines are sent each year worldwide, making the day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year behind Christmas. The association estimates that women purchase approximately 85 percent of all valentines. (Wikipedia-Valentine's Day)

I have always liked the look of a denim mini paired with a fitted t-shirt and cute stilettos. Revive your wardrobe with the staples of spring: bright pumps, a tailored white jacket, and unique gold accents. Complete the look with an adorably cute screen tee, and you have an instant classic. The studded cuff gives this look a hint of edge and distinctive style. This attire is perfect for date night, shopping with the girls, and just generally looking amazingly hip and well put together. Demonstrate your high fashion IQ with this bright idea. (=

Leather “Wally”Clutch-Trina Turk-$137.00
Denim Mini-Abercrombie & Fitch-$59.50
Bright Pump-“Carrie”-Guess-$93.95
Snake Cuff-Wendy Nichol-$160.00
Gold Necklace-Girl Props-$9.95
Twill Jacket-FCUK-$168.00
Robot Tee-Wet Seal-$14.50

We’re all antsy this time of year (or maybe it's just me?). The holidays have passed; we’re well into winter and are very much over the snow and ice. Our senses have been flooded with images of bold prints, shimmering metallics, and beautiful bright colors. We are ready to shop! This entry is dedicated to those afflicted with spring fever. Here are a few ways to pair your pieces from winter and fall with the new spring styles. Be the first to wear the hottest new looks of the season. I know I’ve missed a few days, so I’m giving you not one, but TWO wear warm now outfits to inspire you. Happy Shopping!

Outfit 1

Spring Item: 3 color Tank-Tufi Duek-$165.99
“Domino” Boots-Kors by Michael Kors-$223.00
Patterned Skirt-Diane Von Furstenberg-$143.00
Striped Knit Beret-Urban Outfitters-$28.00
Teal Coat-Top Shop-About $65.00

Outfit 2
Spring Item:Tank-T-Bags-$70.00
Slouch Boots-Nine West “Paskel”-$105.50
Tissue Turtleneck-Juicy Couture-$52.00
Tweed Shorts-To The Max-$26.99
Cable Tights-Stockin Girl-$27.99
Jacket-Delia’s-58.50

I’ve got an early Valentine’s gift for you that’s better than roses and chocolate—seven wonderful items for each day until Valentine’s. On the first day before Valentine’s, my true love gave to me….just kidding. Let Nanette Lepore enchant on day number one with her new perfume. I’ve never tried it, and for all I know it could smell like stink blossoms, but look at that whimsical packaging; how can you resist? # 1)Perfume-Nanette Lepore-$58-$78.00. After you put on what is hopefully, a very lovely smelling perfume, slip into item two. These stiletto sling-backs are smoldering with four inch heels and one of the hottest trends for spring, pastel patent leather. # 2)“Lecia” Pump-Nine West-$79.00. Make day three a chic one. Whether it’s going to lunch with your girlfriends or taking a stroll with your dog, this silk bandana by Cavalli can add an elegant and trendy personal touch to most outfits.# 3)Bandana-Roberto Cavalli-$65.00. Snowed In? Fight your way through the frost in these cute and cozy moon boots.# 4)“Chalet” Boots-DCShoes-$89.99. This Ipod Nano Case by Juicy Couture for $58.00 (#5) is the ultimate accessory for any pink preferring fashionista. With just one day away, snuggle up in this pretty antique pink sweater by Guess for $59.99.(#6) The day has arrived. Celebrate in style with these cute thongs by Betsey Johnson. They come in a set of two for $15.95. (# 7) And there you have it, 7 wearable ways to enjoy your next seven days.

I’m writing my first retraction! I can admit when I'm wrong :). Not a mere 30 minutes ago,

I stumbled upon this delicious new beauty by Michael Kors. The bag, which is in fact,

perfect in every way, is the ideal accessory to my “Lets Play Pretend” outfit. Albeit,

the Gucci is unquestionably exquisite, a trendsetting, modern, shape and color, that would

effortlessly compliment most of your spring and summer attire. It’s safe, but I’m feeling

adventurous today. Foolhardy and masochistic as it might be, I can’t tear my eyes away

from all the glossy spring fashions that are plastered everywhere. And even though its

eight degrees outside right now, I’m smitten. Thus, my retraction: go with this amazing

MK clutch, and save the Gucci for more classic outfits.

Rattan Clutch-Michael Kors Collection-$395

Remember when you were a kid and when it came to your imagination, the sky was truly the limit? I like to revisit that mindset from time to time. Today, I’m on a fabulous beachfront resort, situated in blissful close proximity to the equator… not here in this biting coldness in the dead of winter. Because most designers and clothing stores jump the gun this time of year, thrusting bikinis, and sandals, and shorts into our blue-lipped faces (ironically, while showing their FALL/WINTER collections, it’s very easy to indulge in fantasy. While I’m pretending, I might as well invite my good friends Gucci and Choo along on my decadent vacation. My favorite piece in this outfit is probably the shirt, which is unfortunately, somewhat of a mystery since I seem to have misplaced the style name. I love the rope detailing which inspired me a great deal when choosing the bag and the gold bracelet. You may have a bit of a hunt ahead of you if you plan on purchasing the shirt, which I originally found via BlueFly.Com. If club hopping from island to island is your plan, I suggest wearing a very simple and thin wrap in a natural color to shield your shoulders from the coconut-tinged tropical breezes. Bon Voyage!

Wooden Bracelet-The Rainforest Store-$4.95 **
Stilettos-“Axis” by Jimmy Choo-About $585.00
Multi-link Bracelet-Adrienne Vittadini-$68.00
Gold Leaf Earrings-Forever 21-$4.80 (wow!)
Striped Shorts-Susan Monaco-$104.99
Pelham Bag-Gucci-$1,880.00
Halter Top-YaYa-$151.99

**Note: The Rainforest Site will preserve 1145.0 sq. ft. of land for each Annapurna Veda Bangle Bracelet purchased.

Hi all! I'm having some major issues with my Internet service today (as usual)
I'm sorry I have not posted today's outfit just yet...hopefully I'll be able to do that soon!


Fashionably Yours,

-QofP

This amazing ensemble will be sure to keep your eight bosses off your back for the day. I love the colors in this outfit, particularly that of the blouse. The stunning shade of midnight blue flatters just about everyone. The smart, sophisticated lines of the modern pencil skirt will make you a shoe-in for that promotion you’ve been vying for. The cute bow details will have you looking perfectly presentable, and the chunky cuff bracelet ties everything together while adding a few fun splashes of vivid color. It’s virtually impossible to have a Case of the Mondays when you look this fly! In the unlikely event that you do come down with the bug, no one will accuse you of being a lush if you “medicate” your sickness with a few martinis at lunch.

Tailored Skirt-L.A.M.B.-About $195.00**
Earrings-Kenneth Cole Reaction-$18.00
Cuff Bracelet-Betsey Johnson-$133.00
Bow Blazer-Robert Rodriguez-$224.99
Velvet Pumps-BCBGirls-$97.95
Amanda Blouse-Bebe-$69.00

**Note: Unfortunately, Bluefly.com sold out of the L.A.M.B. skirt right after I posted this. Sorry!! You might try contacting L.A.M.B.'s customer service department directly. The style of the skirt is called "Vintage" and it is 100% wool.

...But these clothes are so delightful! When I was younger, I wouldn’t be caught dead not dressed to the nines, no matter where I went. Living on the east coast during winter has inspired a change of heart. Now, I just want to be warm, and if there’s a call for snow, you’ll quite likely find me hibernating within the safe confines of a warm house. Unfortunately, there are pesky responsibilities such as work, walking my dog, and getting that ever so necessary vitamin D from the sun that force me outside several times a day. Make waddling down the street in layer upon layer a thing of the past with these pieces.

Cozy Cashmere Sweater-Max Studio-$131.00
Cropped Suede Pants-Miss Sixty-$106.99
Tweed Coat-Spiegel-$89.00 (what a steal!)
Animal Baseball Tee-Wet Seal-$5.99 **
Chocolate Boots-Nine West-$210.00
Patent Spy Bag-Shop Suey-$58.00


**Note: This tee shirt was a clearance item, and is currently sold out in the online store. Try calling or e-mailing Wet Seal’s customer service for purchasing info.

Alas, I no longer have a familiar Saturday haunt, and actually, I have a horrible cold, but if I were planning to go out tonight, this is what I’d be wearing (under a super warm ankle-length coat, of course). I've always loved silver accessories, and the sexy but comfortable Bottega top is the perfect item to compliment the unique jewelry and pretty pumps. Outfit is 100% guaranteed "walk-of-shame" proof. Happy Saturday!