Affordable Fashion Trend: Statement Necklaces

June 22, 2009 by  
Filed under Style

I hate trends that require a total wardrobe overhaul.

As a rule, I tend to avoid any fashion trend that means throwing out the contents of my closet and starting from scratch.

One of my favorite trends right now is the rush towards “statement necklaces”.

What the hell is a statement necklace?

Simply, and redundantly, put – it’s a necklace that makes a statement.  In other words, it’s a large necklace that says “Hey!  Look at me!  I’m the focus of this outfit!”

But we’re not talking hanging expensive jewels around your neck.  No, what makes this trend so great – and accessible – is how affordable it is to follow.  Think costume jewelry.

Statement jewelry makes your existing wardrobe more versatile.  You can take neutral pieces and add color with a necklace – or change the entire feel of an outfit just by swapping out your jewelry.

You can find unique costume jewelry – including great necklaces – anywhere from flea markets to department stores.  I’ve actually found that plus sized women’s clothing stores tend to be the best places to find really great stand out necklaces, though I have no idea why.  (I suspect it’s because they’ve figured out before the rest of us that drawing attention towards a great neckline is an easy way to detract attention from other parts of our bodies.)

Follow me over the jump for a few examples of statement necklaces that are perfectly in line with today’s top fashion trends…

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Summer 2009 Trend: 27 (Maxi) Dresses

May 26, 2009 by  
Filed under Style

Purple Maxi Dress

Purple Maxi Dress

I am a late convert to the maxi dress trend. Maxi dresses were all the rage last summer and spring, but I always assumed that the super long length would be too much for my petite frame.

This year maxi dresses are back and I have fully embraced maxi dresses for the summer. I encourage – no, I implore you – to do the same.

What is a maxi dress?

It has nothing to do with feminine hygiene and everything to do with wearable style.

A maxi dress is basically a really long dress. But we’re not talking floor length formal gowns. A maxi dress is a very casual look that can replace your shorts and t-shirts. You can dress it up or keep it super casual, depending on your accessories (because shoes and jewelry can change an entire outfit), and it becomes appropriate for just about any everyday occasion.

The best thing about a maxi dress is that it flatters a multitude of figures. It is perfect for hiding flaws from the boobs on down. Maxi dresses are also one of the most comfortable trends to come out since someone decide yoga pants were a fashion statement.

They are as comfortable to run around in as sweats without, you know, being sweats.

You can get maxi dresses in any color, solids or prints, in absolutely every size. The biggest thing to watch is the length. Ideally, a maxi dress should hit at your ankle bone.

You can find maxi dresses at every price point.  Find a few of my favorites after the jump.

27 Maxi Dresses for under $100

Maxi Dresses under $30

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Magic Women’s Paisley Maxi Dress

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She’s Cool® Print Maxi Dress

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She’s Cool® Print Maxi Dress

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She’s Cool® Lilac Paisley Print Dress

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Volume One® Tie Dye Floral Maxi Dress

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Energie® Braid Belt Jersey Maxi Dress

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Jasmine® Black/White Tiered Maxi Dress

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Ethnic Tiered Maxi Dress

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Ethnic Ombre Maxi Dress

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Floral Maxi Dress

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Beaded Halter Maxi Dress

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Paisley Maxi Tube Dress

Maxi Dresses under $50

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London Times® Big Floral Maxi Dress

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Renee C. Women’s Printed Maxi Dress

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Lily Women’s V-neck Jersey Maxi Dress

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Glamour Women’s Wave Print Maxi Dress

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Magic Women’s Halter Maxi Dress

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Magic Women’s Maxi Dress

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London Times® Colorblock Maxi Dress

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Animal print maxi dress

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Flyaway maxi halter dress

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Floral Chiffon Maxi Dress

Maxi Dresses under $100

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Ellen Tracy Women’s Printed Halter Maxi Dress

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Eliza J Women’s Taupe/ Yellow Maxi Dress

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Ronni Nicole Maxi Printed Dress

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Color Blocked Maxi Dress

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MAXI DENIM DRESS by Calvin Klein