The world of fashion magazines is a strange and sometimes frightening one - particularly if you’re a budgeting fashion addict forced to stare down the nose of $700 stilettos and $2,500 rings.

Fortunately, there are a plethora of options when it comes to fashion publications to choose from, but which are worth your time and which aren’t?

We all start out as the “flippers”. The people standing near the check stand at the grocery store, or near the racks at Barnes & Noble flip, flip, flipping through endless pages of garb, garments and glory. We seem to think that if we catch enough decent style tips, mixed with the correct number of “reasonably priced” pieces, then the magazine is worth it. Is that true? Does the price of suggested purchases in magazines dictate whether we spend our cash on it?

Personally, while I’d love to just take inspiration from the pages and pages of expert styling and advice, I can’t take a publication that nearly exclusively displays $500+ items seriously. There is a very small percentage of the population that would realistically be able to say “Ooh, Tiffany made that? Pierre, phone it in, won’t you?” and, unfortunately, I’m just short of that bracket.

Additionally, outside of my price tag scrutiny, I’m constantly annoyed by some of the styling of modern fashion magazines. Either they’re completely homeless-chic (*coughNyloncough*), dripping with ripped this and American Apparel that… or so extremely avant garde that all you could really take from it as far as inspiration is your next Halloween costume. I’m definitely not interested in a What Not To Wear-esque practice of following a mathematic formula to create a boring-as-hell outfit (I’m sorry Clinton & Stacey, but you’re better than that), but 16 different floral patterns with lurex wedges and a beret made from chainmail just isn’t my cup of tea.

I’ve definitely clocked in my fair share of hours “flippin’”, and now I’m definitely a truster. These are the magazines that I see, grab, and devour. I’m officially a “truster” of…

• Lucky
  Lucky always does me right. They nearly always give some love to the broke-ass girl in need of a handbag, and have awesome interviews with celebrities regarding their personal style.
• InStyle
  While I definitely love this magazine, I can’t say that I grab it and bag it without at least a little forethought. I often check out the cover stories (”150 Hot Heels under $100!”) and if they’re good (which they typically are), then it’s mine, all mine.
• Elle
  Perhaps I’m a touch biased… But this is the best-named magazine I’ve ever read. As far as the realm of valid commentary goes, however, Elle seems to regularly impress me with their wide range of age-appropriate style advice, and the prices aren’t extremely irrational, either!

What are your go-to magazines? Are you a flipper, or a truster?

xoxo.

If you were wondering “Where the **** has Miss Elle been!?”, refer to the subject of this post for your answer. My love and I have been riding the rails and galavanting around in the northern-midwest!

My darling, Conor, and me holding a sign you can’t read, which says “Minot, ND - 9:39pm”.

We’re finally situated in Chicago (without internet access - ack!), and have just completed our first grocery trip… in the snow! I know you midwestern ladies read that and thought “Oh girl… You don’t even know…”, but as a born-and-bred Seattle-ite, snow is something that we ask for instead of Barbies at Christmas time. MAYBE once a year do we get to frolick in the crispy white wonder that is, apparently, ever-so plentiful out here in Chicago.

Mmmmm, train food! Microwave-delicious!

I was also notified this morning that you can read my ever-eloquent blurb on budget fashion in the December issue of Women’s Health! So, if you don’t get enough of me here, now I’m on paper, as well!

Exactly how we feel about Winona, ND… I guess I’m a city girl, for sure.PS - Chapped lips blow!!

I’m hoping to regain hold of this whole “maintaining a website” thing ASAP, and plan to “splurge” on some cable internet access within the next 3 days. This coffee shop is probably getting a little tired of my grunts, groans, and hideous LOL-cat laughter, anyhow.

I know the content is completely absent, and I’m sorry! I can only hope that this menial post containing odd photographs will please you for now… Don’t hurt me!

xoxo.

The thought of icy crystals swirling in the air and frigid winds conjure up ideas of hot toddies, blankets, stove parties, and striking up a conversation with your oldschool radiator. But what of going out? What’s a lady supposed to don in the chilliest months, outside of heavy, wide-leg wool pants and plenty of socks?

There are few dresses that will meet the needs of the beautiful winter lass, but the few that do definitely get the job done. They are:

• Sweater-style
• Long-sleeved
• Wool

Surely long-sleeved wool dresses exist, as do long-sleeved sweater dresses made from a wool blend… But as long as you have at least one of these characteristics going for you, you’re winning.

One worry, though… “Wool”, “sweater”… Good lord “cashmere“?!?!?! This could get expensive, right? All these thickly woven frocks - we’ll never get out alive! …right?

Wrong. You can get yourself a nice little collection of winter dresses for less than $100 per garment!

However… There are a couple of additional pieces that you almost must have when donning winter dresses. They’re limited, but necessary:

• Sweater tights/thick, opaque, knit tights (these will double your warmth!)
• Knee high boots (either camel, dark brown, or black)
• A delicious trench (preferably wool, as well)

The sweater tights and knee high boots will be the best things you’ve ever acquainted your southern-most appendages with, and the trench won’t hurt either (stay tuned to B&B for more on trenches).

These tights cost between $6.99 (very inexpensive) to $22 which, if you’re not shopping at Ross, TJ Maxx, or Marshall’s, is about the going rate for decent quality hoisery - especially of the knitted nature.

The boots should be of good quality, and tall enough to at least be near the bottom of your kneecap. Depending on your style and needs, the heel can definitely vary, but when wearing a boot with thicker fabrics such as cashmere or knit tights, i suggest (heavily) a thicker heel - something a bit more substantial. You want the boots to look like they go with your outfit… Not like “they were the only pair you had”, you know?

Both pairs of boots above are below $65. The one on the right also comes in a bunch of different colors. Black boots are a dime-a-dozen, so I didn’t even bother. Tee-hee!

The final ingredient for this cozy, feminine recipe is the actual dresses. I think that the most flattering hemlines hit at, or just above the knee, while the sleeves look best at either 1/2 or 3/4 length. This isn’t to say that all of your sleeveless dresses ought to be lit aflame for warmth or banned to the back of your closet… Just remember how easy it is to transform your spring/summer wardrobes for super cheap!

All the dresses below are under $100! I tried my absolute best to find some good wool dresses, but they’re a touch more expensive, so most of these are jersey blends (which are warm, too, as long as you get close with those sweater tights!), but a few are wool blends! I did my job, I swear!

All above products are from Bluefly.

If you’re looking for something a little more lux, a little softer, and a little more serious that doesn’t break the bank… I’ve got some 100% cashmere dresses for absolutely steal-worthy prices.

All below are under $170 from Bluefly.

Just looking at these makes my shoulders and neck feel fuzzy and warm and cozy and sweet. Plus - under $170? For that much cashmere? I’m looking at my moving-fund and reallllly testing my self-control…

xoxo.

LISTENING TO:

Kruder & Dorfmeister - The K&D Sessions

Well, you know what - I don’t know. I don’t know, and that’s okay. Anyone who can write their “style” down in 10 words or less, I feel bad for! In my opinion, style is something that should be consistently growing and changing. So let’s start exploring.

Image courtesy of The Fashion Spot

A person will worship something, have no doubt about that. We may think our tribute is paid in secret in the dark recesses of our hearts, but it will out. That which dominates our imaginations and our thoughts will determine our lives, and our character. Therefore, it behooves us to be careful what we worship, for what we are worshipping we are becoming.

The idea of embodying dreams, living out legends, and using your day-to-day life as a platform for extraordinary adventures renders a Wonderland Girl transfixed, glassy-eyed and consumed by all that is beauty.

Image courtesy of The Fashion Spot

Spewing pastels and tulle with pearls, this girl is made for all things voluminous, precious and pretend.

Anything is possible.

Miss Me Suri Teardrop Heels from Lulu*s
$32

Young Fabulous & Broke Goddess Top from Tobi
$168 $117

Priorities Wool ‘Emma’ Cropped Jacket from Bluefly
$168 $96

Eye for an Eyelet Bag from Lulu*s
$32 $25.50

Image courtesy of The Fashion Spot

Betsey Johnson Rhinestone ‘Las Vegas’ Dress from Bluefly
$309 $79.99

Pink Tulle Petticoat
$39.99

Charlotte Ronson Washed Linen Mini Jumper
$172 $79.99

Report Signature Ellis Open Toe Oxford Pump from ShopBop
$190 $133

Image courtesy of The Fashion Spot

Max Studio Botanical Embroidered Skirt
$148 $38

Only Hearts Lace Trim Chemise from ShopBop
$88 $26.40

Sweetees “Aphrodite” Wrap Dress from Bluefly
$200 $94.99

Bow Tie Pearl Bracelet from Charlotte Russe
$4

Max Studio Crinkle Silk Chiffon Corsage Dress
$208 $88

Image courtesy of The Fashion Spot

A Partridge in a Magnolia Tree Headband
$28

Rose Window Silver Plate Brooch
$9

Jewel Toned Jealousy Dress
$48

For More Inspiration:

• Cherry Blossom Girl
• Gala Darling
• Marie Antoinette (DVD)
• The Virgin Suicides: Original Motion Picture Score
• Princess Poochie’s Shoe Daydreams and Bubblegum Plastic

xoxo.

Listening To:

Soulstice - Illusion

A message from my amazing friend Jon, aka The Dharma Traveler:

Republican or  democrat, prolife or prochoice, power to the state or power to the federal government, If you preach national defense or if you fight for peace, regardless if you identify as a liberal or a conservative, the world is gazing upon one of the most important world events of not only our generation but of both past and future generations.

We live in a world of violence. We wage wars on two different fronts, one of which we have not seen the likes of since the Vietnam war. Unparalleled mounting national debt with no apparent end to spending; now surpassing ten trillion dollars. Our economy on the verge of what may be the next depression. Businesses failing on both main street and wall street. We face an energy deficiency with no current viable solution. We do not face these challenges over the next four years or eight years. These are challenges which will be a constant concern throughout the rest of our lives as well as our children’s lives. Issues which will not be resolved though a single law, bill, or amendment but will need to be addressed though continuous evaluation and improvement.

Over the next 24 hours we must not only look to our own values and morals. We must look at who will serve our country with the best intentions. Who will act as a true public servant. To  build upon our nation to be the guiding light. To embrace the ideals that America was founded upon. We no longer have the convenience of simply relying on optimism. Now is the time to wage our own righteous war. Not a war against a foreign power, radical group, or political party. We must wage our war against apathy! Now is our time to exercise the privilege which makes us Americans. It is time to decide who you want fighting for your future.

I implore all of those that receive this call to arms to carry out that which is not only our right, or privilege, but our duty as Americans. Exercise the right which defines us as a democratic people. Carry out whatever actions necessary to vote for the next President of the United States of America.

This is for real… Do the right thing.

xoxo.

It’s the online shoe nirvana’s 2nd birthday, and to celebrate, they’re getting one of the best presents ever: my money.

Why? Because Piperlime, for one day, is giving their customers $20 off EVERY ORDER… PLUS one customer in every 100 will get $100 off their entire order!

Booya! I love shoes, and I love $20/$100 off, so (using basic math skills) I can conclude that…I’m going shopping! But what to buy, what to buy…

Two Lips Martini
$80 $49.99 $29.99

I’m feeling very “candy coated” lately, which is odd because it’s pulling into winter’s driveway in Seattle, but I’m sticking to my cravings and indulging in ultra-feminine details and sweet pastels.

Seychelles Check’s in the Mail
$80 $49.99 $29.99

Franco Sarto Ability
$89 $59.99 $39.99

Via Spiga Kelis
$230 $89.99 $69.99 (!!!!)

Pink Studio Lacy
$100 $79.99 $59.99

What will you get from this great sale? Choose wisely and quickly, because it ends October 29th at 11.59pm!

xoxo.

Photo by Steve Thoroughgood on flickr.

Oooh, gotcha! That was a good one, yes? I’m absolutely not pregnant, and if you know me on a personal level, you know how absolutely hilarious that idea is when you take into consideration my complete and all-encompassing fear of babies, children, and the idea of bearing them… (Nothing against moms! Just the concept of being one.)

But! There was a bit of surprise presented to me yesterday when I learned that my apartment in Chicago is still full of healthy living people until the 12th! Que horror! So I’m here in Seattle for another two weeks.

Boo.

But x2! That means I don’t have to abandon my delicious and delectible readers just yet! I’m stepping out of Rush Week and will be regularly posting this week (knock on wood).

Which also means that I’m allowing myself back on to Twitter! I’ve been depriving myself for fear of distraction - but poo-poo on that! I’m back on the scene.

To keep the post at least semi-on track, if for some God forsaken reason I did get pregnant… You can bet your life on the fact that I’d be super stylin’!

Old Navy Maternity Printed Satin Dress
$39.50

Old Navy Maternity Pleated Empire Waist Dress
$29.50 $17.99

Old Navy Maternity Full Panel Pintuck Jeans
$36.50

GAP Pinned Wrap Cardigan in Rock Heather
$68

… pinned with …

Portia Jewelry Fuchsia or Lavender Feather Brooch (3.5″ long)
$12

… Luckily, I don’t plan on having to wear these any time soon, or in the distant future…

But if you’re knocked up happily bearing children, don’t forget that there are plenty of ways to keep your style (and confidence) sky high during this period of intense bodily change!

xoxo.

I have to sign off Broke & Beautiful for a while during the big move to Chicago! When we next see each other, I’ll be typing to you from a shiny new Macbook, sitting in a hardwood-floored apartment in the City of Sausage and Wind! (Related?)

Have an amazing week-or-so, ladies, and I’ll still be available by e-mail, so chat me up!

xoxo.

(PS - Sorry about the delay of the Pink Cherie winners! I promise that’ll be the first order of business upon my return! <3)

Today was not one of my best days (as most of my Twitter gals know - sorry ladies!). I wasn’t synced with anyone, communication-wise - I felt like my head was all cottonwool and foggy. I responded poorly to most people, unintentionally, and overall just kind of sucked at life today. And I didn’t have my car available to drive me to the nearest shopping establishment to help wipe away the blues. It’s a surefire solution to any bad day, and this is the first day I didn’t have it. Poo.

While I know tomorrow’s another day to try again, I may as well use this mopey time to create the only thing my fuzzy little head knows how to when I’m like this: A Massive Wishlist.

If I can’t drive off to the wonderland that is retail shops, I can at least park my pajama-clad butt in front of the computer and whisk my mind off that which ails me.

My first stop is usually one of my favorites: Smart Bargains.

August Silk Short Sleeve Silk Blend T-Neck Top
$58 $29.99

This would be PERFECT until a sleeveless dress.

Suzi Chin Matte Jersey Keyhole Dress
$158 $79.99

BCBGMAXAZRIA Knit Top w/Chiffon Sleeve
$138 $39.97

I’m really digging voluminous half-sleeves lately. Good way to cover up arms without being too… covered?

Lolita Lempicka 3.4 oz Eau de Parfum Spray
$80 $59.99

They have such good deals… I feel better already.

Next stop: Bluefly for every single thing in the Gossip Girl via Bluefly post.

Then, we head to Steve Madden for their ridiculous Clearance section:

Steve only has summer shoes on sale right now, unfortunately… But hey! With a little creative legging- or tights-work, they’ll be perfect for fall and winter.

“KAPTURE” in Natural Leather
$89.95 $39.99

“PASCHA” in White Patent Leather
$89.95 $39.99

Sadly, that’s all they had that wasn’t blatantly summer appropriate. Oh well! Onward…

Last stop, ULTA Beauty: Cosmetic Nirvana. I’ve been dying to go try all their stuff and cover the back of my hands and wrist in eyeshadow, eyeliner, lipstick, etc… but alas, moving rules one’s life, I’ve discovered, and does not allow an efficient time for makeup-in-store-play.

Physician’s Formula Baked Collection Wet/Dry Eyeshadow
$7.59

I’ve been wanting to try this stuff forever. I love all of Physician’s Formula, but they’re on the pricey side at most drug stores… And trying them all would be worlds past what I ought to be spending, really. (It’s even cheaper at Ulta than on PF’s site!)

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Enhancer
$11.89 $9.89 (plus, buy 1, get 1 50% off!)

I’ve been using this stuff for about a month… And I absolutely LOVE it. I have really sensitive skin (it’s allergic to everything), so I’m constantly concerned about all-over face products, but this one is amazing. It has great coverage, leaves my skin really smooth and soft… And best of all, DOES NOT come off on my clothing! It’s a dream.

ULTA Ultimate Pout SPF 15
$2.50

I’ve decided that this winter will be my red lips winter. I’ve never been brave enough to try a strong red lip, but the time has come! Plus, how can you beat that price?

Smashbox Cream Eye Liner Palette
$32

I know the price is ridiculous… But for the amount of colors and the quality that I know exists in Smashbox products - I think it just may be worth it.

Sigh… I feel so much better. It wasn’t quite as good as the actual “window shopping” experience, but it’ll get me through the night.

What’s on YOUR wishlist right now?

xoxo.

Now, this isn’t to say that the garments in these individual categories will appear, or have appeared on the set of the infamous show… But after perusing Jenny Humphrey, Blair Waldorf, and Serena’s “closets”… I certainly see the extreme resemblance.

Just head to the main page of Bluefly to click your favorite character! And you know, because it’s Bluefly, they’re going to have amazing deals on their clothing.

Here are some of my favorites from the ladies of the bunch:

JENNY HUMPHREY (”Little J“)

Pour la Victoire Patent Leather ‘Helene’ Flats
$180 $91.80

Revolver ‘Genevieve’ Swing Dress
$110 $56.10

A.B.S. Black Satin ‘Attribute’ Pumps
$130 $66.30

How extremely devilish are these? Are they’re in literally EVERY size - in stock! I need these in my life.

Renee’s Accessories Convertible ‘Military’ Mittens
$32 $19

BLAIR WALDORF

Pour la Victoire Leather ‘Helene’ Pumps
$180 $91.80

Fashion Focus Croc Stamped Leather Skinny Belt
$38 $19.55

Generra Cotton Poplin Belted Top
$175 $89.25

Priorities ‘Daisy’ Ruffle Trim Blouse
$106 $54.40

I’m not familiar with this “Priorities” brand, but I certainly enjoy the prices!

Portolano White Cashmere Knit Beret
$45 $27

SERENA VAN DER WOODSEN

AG Jeans Lightweight ‘Stilt’ Cigarette Jeans
$164 $84.15

Priorities Navy Cotton ‘Ann’ Blazer
$142 $72.25

Development Maroon Wool Jersey Studded Bib Tank
$195 $99.45

Sweetees Pewter Jersey V-Neck Tank
$72$36.55

BCBGMAXAZRIA Navy Striped Halter Dress
$172 $84.15

So which Gossip Girl do you resemble most in style? I think I’m probably a Jenny or a Blair… Serena is a little too… deep-v-neck and flowy for me. I’m a curvy girl, so I need my clothing more tailored and fitted. I also wish they’d had a category for Lily (Serena’s Mom)’s style… She’s amazing.

xoxo!