Kitschy, Affordable Fashion At ModCloth

You may have seen ads for ModCloth on some of your favorite sites around the blogosphere, but you may never have checked them out. It’s time you did. ModCloth offers a selection of affordable, cute and totally kitschy clothing, accessories and home decor for the under 30 set (although they don’t card you at you checkout, which is good because they have some totally cute stuff that those of us a bit north of 30 can pull off). The style is retro and vintage; it reminds me of those old black and white TV shows from the 50s that my brother and I used to watch on weekday afternoons. Think “I Love Lucy,” but with a modern twist.

ModCloth was started by a husband and wife team, Susan and Eric Koger when they were only 17 years old (they were not married at 17 – just sayin’). It started as an outlet for Susan’s passion for vintage clothing and soon grew and grew. In a few years’ time, they had a real winner on their hands. I can see why. The reason I’m writing this at all is that I kept seeing their ads on other sites and always thought, “What a cute dress!” I finally clicked and found they were affordable as well.

One thing that sets this apart from other clothing sites is customer participation. The “Be The Buyer” feature allows customers to vote on sample pieces. Those that get the most votes go into production. Interesting concept and smart business, if you ask me. What better way in ensure that an item is popular than having customers pick their favorites before they’re even produced? They also feature stylist’s picks so you can see the next big things.

ModCloth is fun, affordable clothing and accessories for the fashion forward woman. Go check ‘em out.

About The Author:  Megan is a professional writer, amateur photographer and an accomplished beauty product crash test dummy. She'll try anything once, especially if it's a free sample. She's still trying to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up, but it will probably involve travel and Colin Farrell. And maybe some writing and photography. You can visit her at onethousandwordsormore.com or follow her on Twitter: msmegan.

Posted by Megan G. for Buy-Her.com.

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Hollywood Fashion Tape: I Accept No Substitutes

We’ve covered fashion tape before. It’s a wardrobe essential, in my opinion (although maybe they could make clothes that actually fit the way they’re supposed to, but whatever). There’s nothing that looks worse to me than bra straps that are hanging out, and nothing more irritating to me than a piece of clothing that won’t stay put. I’ve tried many different kinds of tape, at many different price points, but I always come back to one: Hollywood Fashion Tape.

At $8.99 for a tin of 36 three-inch strips, it may not be the cheapest option out there, but I think it’s the only option. While other tapes will stick temporarily, the Hollywood tape will stick as long as you need it to. I have a linen jacket with floppy lapels that will use the same two pieces of tape for months. I take it off to wash and iron the jacket, then apply new strips and forget about them until the next washing. The other thing I love about them is the material they are made from; it’s stretchy and flexible. This is important for a couple of reasons: 1. It’s silent – other types I’ve tried crinkle when I move, like actual tape; 2. It holds better because it moves with you and the fabric.

The tape size is perfect for most uses: keeping bra straps hidden, closing gaps in button-down shirts, keeping lapels in place, etc. If you don’t need the whole three inches, you can cut it (do so before removing the backing). You can also find special packs of odd shapes at fabric stores—they will help you through almost any fashion dilemma. I see they also sell small dots that can be an excellent choice if you just need a bit of tape.

My only complaint? Every time I buy more tape, I get another tin. I don’t need another tin, and I hate throwing them in the trash. Ladies—come up with a refill pack and I’ll buy it.

P.S. – Check out some of Hollywood Fashion Secrets’ other stuff—there’s something for just about every need. So cool.

About The Author:  Megan is a professional writer, amateur photographer and an accomplished beauty product crash test dummy. She'll try anything once, especially if it's a free sample. She's still trying to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up, but it will probably involve travel and Colin Farrell. And maybe some writing and photography. You can visit her at onethousandwordsormore.com or follow her on Twitter: msmegan.

Posted by Megan G. for Buy-Her.com.

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Bye, Bye Back Fat: Vanishing Back Bra

No matter how lean you may be (or used to be), chances are you are going to be familiar with the dreaded back boob: That lump that spills over the back of even your favorite bra and generally makes you feel fat, sloppy and icky. Guess what? It’s an almost universal problem unless you’re young and/or very skinny. But there is help: Soma’s Vanishing Back Bra. At a price range of $44-50, they’re not bargain basement bras, but they are most certainly worth every penny.

After going into early menopause, my whole body composition started to change. One of the side effects was back boob. No matter what I did, I couldn’t get rid of it—not by losing weight or by switching bras. I did finally go for a fitting at Nordstrom, thinking I was simply buying the wrong bra size. I was told by the trained bra fitter that it wasn’t the bra, “some people just have it.”

Translation: It’s totally you. Sigh.

So the quest began. I stumbled onto Soma because they were having a sale. It may be helpful to note that Soma is owned by the same company as Chico’s. For me, this is a good thing because they cater to the mature woman and therefore address body issues that Victoria would rather ignore (apparently). I found the Vanishing Back Bras and haven’t looked back. I don’t think I will ever wear another bra again. It’s true love.

They just work. You get a great smooth line on your back not matter how body-conscious your top. There are front close styles (my favorite because they’re easy on and off, plus you can store them folded in your drawer) and back close styles. They come with lightly lined cups, unlined cups and wireless. Plus they are extremely comfortable, at least for this 38B. They come in great colors and pretty patterns. So far, though, they don’t come in strapless. Boo. Because that, I think, is the last bra frontier.

Also battling VPL (visible panty line)? Try Soma’s Vanishing Edge Panties—they come in colors and patterns to match the bras (I love that) and are available in a variety of styles from boy shorts to bikinis. No panty lines and they don’t ride up.

A perfect pair, no?

About The Author:  Megan is a professional writer, amateur photographer and an accomplished beauty product crash test dummy. She'll try anything once, especially if it's a free sample. She's still trying to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up, but it will probably involve travel and Colin Farrell. And maybe some writing and photography. You can visit her at onethousandwordsormore.com or follow her on Twitter: msmegan.

Posted by Megan G. for Buy-Her.com.

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Price & Quality Meet At Dots

Hello ladies!  How I have missed you all lately!  We have oh so much to catch up on!

A few weeks ago I was invited as a blogger to a Dots opening in Woonsocket, Rhode Island.   Since my kids had their soccer banquet afterwards I had to take them – and my mom – with me due to time scheduling that day.  When we arrived we were able to take a look around the store and meet the District manager, Store manager and some of the employees.  Everyone was so nice to my boys!

I was totally impressed with the quality of the clothes.  It has been years since I was in a Dots store.  I would have to say the last time being when I was a college freshman at UMASS Amherst.  It was one of the only stores in a small strip mall near the college.  Back then my taste was more Abercrombie shall we say (though my pockets couldn’t quite afford it).

My Gray Sweater

Now that I am older and oh so much wiser… and a mom of 3 small guys… I prefer price and quality over names shall we say.  I can’t always pay top dollar for something that quite honestly will probably fall apart after it gets worn a few times.  Ever had that happen ladies?  I’m all about saving money while still getting fashionable clothes – like my new found love for Marshalls and TJ Maxx.

I took some time to shop around, and for just $35 I was able to get the really cute long gray sweater you see to the right, the gray hat and a necklace/earrings set.  Just $35.  Not only does Dots try and stay on top of what’s trending, their website even has a What’s Hot Now section where you can see what the celebrities are wearing and how you can get a similar look at Dots.

Dots' Sweater Collection

In addition to tops, bottoms, dresses, shoes, hats and accessories I am loving their sweater collection.

Look how cute! Already I am thinking of what would look cute for some holiday parties that are coming up.

And now I have a giveaway, on behalf of Dots.  Four $10 Girlfriend Pass Gift Cards for one of my readers.  Leave me a comment between now and Friday, December 9th at 11:59 pm, on this post.  Tell me what YOU would like to get from Dots.  Winner will be chosen at random and notified by e-mail.

Posted by Cira for Buy-Her.com.

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True Religion Jeans

You might recall that I recently had a poor experience with a pair of 7 For All Mankind jeans that I purchased online. Well, since it was recently my birthday (No, please! Don’t get up!) I had a bit of a shopping excursion at the local outlet mall. Remembering my resolve to expand my fashion repertoire, I tried on some different labels. When I stumbled upon True Religion’s super funky back pockets, and the inexplicably compelling white stitching, the world started to spin in slow motion, stars began to twinkle in aisles of the Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet store, and somewhere I could hear Air Supply streaming through the airwaves.

When I got to the dressing room, my love only grew. You see, these were snug in the thigh, but NOT snug on my hips. In other words, they had a higher rise. But what I’m REALLY trying to say here is: NO MUFFIN TOP.

*swoon*

Now, the cut I’d found was the Becky (perhaps the Becky Little T, to be precise). This means that I’d found a REGULAR RISE pair of bootcut jeans. And YOU GUYS! THEY’RE NOT MOM JEANS! The other good news is that the inseam was also a bit shorter than most of the Sevens I’ve worn. This means I won’t always have to roll them up, have them hemmed, or wear heels (and invariably fall on my face).

The only *bad* news here is that I have mammoth thighs. These jeans are only 1% stretch, so that tightness doesn’t “give” over time. However, I gotta say that it’s kinda nice to have a pair of snug pants that are not shoving all my flab up and over the top of my belt.

It’s probably nice for everyone, in fact.

True Religion Becky cut jeans can be found on Amazon, ranging from about $175 to $200. BUT! If you live near an outlet, you might luck out and find a pair for HALF that price.  (Even cheaper if your mother is buying them as your birthday gift. AHEM.)

Posted by Kristine for Buy-Her.com.

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7 for All Mankind Clean A-Pocket

My husband calls me a bit of a jean snob. And the thing is that, well, that I’m totally not!  In fact, I just bought a regular pair at Marshall’s just the other day. (I think they were knock-offs.) But I do happen to have a soft spot for 7 for All Mankind. It might even be a blind spot, as my loyalty to the brand has me often disregarding other options. And I only started to realize this with my latest pair. Asked for an idea for a gift from my mother, I hunted down a pair of “Clean” A-pocket jeans in Vintage Courage wash. From what I saw on the website, I was in luurrve. I’d had a pair of A-pockets before, but never really liked that my ass was stamped with it’s first initial. On both cheeks. Wisely, the brand responded with this “clean” version, so I bought!

But then they arrived in the mail. There were a few issues, I guess. First, I noticed that the color was more indigo than I’d thought it would be. But since I still liked the fading, I pushed this out of my mind. I tend to get in a rut with fashion, and maybe this would push me out!

Ehh…but then I tried them on. The fit was…weird. Now, the description claimed that this jean would have the same fit as the traditional A-pocket. They just took off the silly A! But I’ve owned A-pockets, and these? These were not fitting like A-pockets. The waist was too big and the thighs, too tight. And while this could be fixed with a belt and less cookies, most problematic was the flare leg. Again, I saw “bootcut” on the site, but this was decidedly “flare” leg. I have to roll them if I’m not wearing them with heals. (Which, means I have to roll them all the damn time.)

In the end, I actually kept the jeans because I’m a child. I was so excited to finally get them that I was too impatient to wait for something different. (I know; it makes no sense. You should talk to my husband.) So if you’re in the market for this particular jean, I’d highly recommend finding them in a department store to try on first. Or, cautiously purchase online, but be prepared to return. They retail for about $189 on Amazon, but I know other sites have them for as low as $150.

*sniffle*

Posted by Kristine for Buy-Her.com.

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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
Magic Women’s Paisley Maxi Dress	She’s Cool® Print Maxi Dress
She’s Cool® Print Maxi Dress	She’s Cool® Lilac Paisley Print Dress
Volume One® Tie Dye Floral Maxi Dress	Energie® Braid Belt Jersey Maxi Dress
Jasmine® Black/White Tiered Maxi Dress	Ethnic Tiered Maxi Dress
Ethnic Ombre Maxi Dress	Floral Maxi Dress
Beaded Halter Maxi Dress	Paisley Maxi Tube Dress
Maxi Dresses under $50
London Times® Big Floral Maxi Dress	Renee C. Women’s Printed Maxi Dress
Lily Women’s V-neck Jersey Maxi Dress	Glamour Women’s Wave Print Maxi Dress
Magic Women’s Halter Maxi Dress	Magic Women’s Maxi Dress
London Times® Colorblock Maxi Dress	Animal print maxi dress
Flyaway maxi halter dress	Floral Chiffon Maxi Dress
Maxi Dresses under $100
Ellen Tracy Women’s Printed Halter Maxi Dress	Eliza J Women’s Taupe/ Yellow Maxi Dress
Ronni Nicole Maxi Printed Dress	Color Blocked Maxi Dress
MAXI DENIM DRESS by Calvin Klein

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If you’ve ever been to a gym before you know that it is where the female spawn of satan go to make you feel fat. Some people will try to tell you that those women only hang out at the fancy gyms, but they’re lying.  Even the women at the YMCA have the ability to make you feel like stuffed sausage on feet when you first start to work out.

My first day back to the gym, I made a classic rookie mistake.  I dressed like a mom who was just starting to work out again.

I wore capri pants instead of shorts to cover up the cellulite on my pasty white thighs.

I wore a sensible tank top with wide straps to conceal the sports bra that I’m wearing for function instead of fashion.

I put all of my efforts into concealing my body instead of showing it off.  Because, hello?  I just started working out again.  And also?  I’m going to be red faced and sweating like a pig in about .02 seconds.

Unfortunately, my modesty and sensibile thinking just made me feel more self concious about the way I looked the entire time I was there.  The problem was I didn’t get workout clothes that were flattering to my body.  At all.

Yes, some women’s workout clothes are more flattering than others.  And it’s not necesssarily the workout clothing with the most coverage that looks the best.

And before you start to lecture me on how trivial it is to care about what you look like when you workout – well, suck it.  It’s distracting to be thinking about what a turd you look like when you’re trying to concentrate on things like form and breathing and not dying.

Here’s what I learned about women’s workout clothes that work better for my body.

Women’s Workout Clothes Rule 1 – wide straps  and sleevless tops are not your friend.

This is similar to the tank top I wore my first day.  Great coverage, right?

Maybe if I had some definition in my arms.  As it is, the only thing I have going for my upper body at this point is the fact that I have shoulders.  of course, in this top you couldn’t see that.  All you could see was my pudgy little arms plugged into my top.  Instead of emphasizing my shoulders or my chest, the focus was on my very undefined upper arms.

Women’s Workout Clothes Rule 2 – Work what your mama gave ya, even if it’s just a shoulder blade.

This is a much better option for me. It’s not much of a difference, but the straps are small enough that you can see that I actually have joints, not just plug-in limbs.

Women’s Workout Clothes Rule 3 – it’s perfectly OK to cater to the girls.

Even better, a top that shows off my shoulders and the little bit of chest I have. Granted, my boobs aren’t much to get excited about, but any positive attention I can bring to the top of my body takes away from my very pear shaped lower half.

And even little boobs are sexy when it’s done with class.

Women’s Workout Clothes Rule 4 – just say no to pseudo maternity wear.

Um, no.  The only person this looks good on is someone who doesn’t have anything to hide.  And do you know what the benefit of good workout tops is?  Spandex.  Spandex is your friend and will hold your stuff up and in.  This?  This is begging to have your jiggling belly peeking out from beneath your maternity top the first time you bend over too far or lift your hands too high.

Of course, I’m still in the beginning stages of my adventure in women’s workout fashion.  So far I’ve figured out how to flatter the top half of my body, but the bottom half is still screwed.

I’ve tried shorty shorts, mesh basketball shorts, and stretchy capri pants.  None of it’s making me feel less self concious about potential camel toe or butt jiggle.

I don’t suppose there’s another 5’2″ pear out there with some words of wisdom for my lower body, is there?  (I mean, BESIDES more cycling classes.)

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