3 Online Stores to Check Out

While it’s easy to waste hours browsing Amazon.com or eBay for clothing items, there are tons of online shopping sites available in the vast world of the Internet. Handmade creations can be found on Etsy, and well-designed T-shirts can be found on Threadless. Here are a few clothing stores you might not know about that are sure to meet your clothing needs.

Neighborhoodies

Customizing your own clothing is fun, but sometimes the results aren’t so great. If you’ve ever experimented with iron transfers or stencils, you’ll know that the clothing sometimes doesn’t turn out as cool as you’d hoped. That’s where Neighborhoodies comes in. You can choose from a wide selection of garments, such as cropped ‘80s T-shirts, zip-up hoodies, polo T-shirt dresses and tank tops, as well as accessories like tote bags and hats in any color.

Once you’ve selected your clothing item and color, you can then customize the item to have virtually any text in any font in any location on the item. You can also pay an extra $15 to have any custom design printed on the item. Now you can have your favorite phrase or your very own artwork printed on the clothing items of your choice.

ShirtsMyWay

Another site that allows you ultimate customization for your clothing items is ShirtsMyWay.com.  Designed mostly for menswear, the site allows users to customize a dress shirt from scratch. You can choose any print on the garment, or mix and match prints for a funky, trendy look. You can even pick the color of the shirt’s buttons, as well as any monogramming. It’s a great site for adding a bit of your own personality into a standard clothing item you’ll need for formal events or professional settings.

Bonne Chance Clothing

With sites like ModCloth.com gaining a tremendous amount of popularity for their fun retro dresses and 1940s and ‘50s inspired designs, BonneChanceClothing.com also offers vintage-inspired styles. The chic printed dresses with Peter Pan or scalloped colors are feminine and flirty and are perfect for quirky styles. While the site’s dresses are a big hit, its vintage tops, shorts and skirts are just as chic. This quiet little site truly offers unique and trendy clothing for shoppers looking for something a little different.

5 Best Places to Buy a T-Shirt Online

Ah, the t-shirt. Its simplicity makes it the great equalizer of online shopping; once you know your size, you can pretty much order any t-shirt without trying it on and have a solid chance at a good fit. So now that we’ve established that you don’t need to leave the couch OR put on pants to get a nice tee, where should the hunt begin?

Barking Irons (barkingirons.com): This New York-based designer has some nice print tees, although their pricing leaves a bit to be desired – $52 for a t-shirt just feels wrong, doesn’t it? The real gem is their graphic-free “Brando Tee”, a simple shirt with a flattering cut that calls to mind the classic, swaggering cool of Streetcar-era Brando. Sold exclusively online and available in a $50 2-pack, this is a great option for people who are tired of boxy t-shirts and are trying to get someone to compare them to Brando eventually.

Desteenation (desteenation.com): This company racks up mileage collecting souvenir t-shirts from all the cool little hole-in-the-wall spots in the country and re-selling them to you, the painfully hip consumer. Their large stock of shirts all link to the small business it came from, so the site doubles as a collection of travel tips. Finding a hidden gem from your own hometown wouldn’t be out of the question, and being able to give an answer when people ask you where your t-shirt is from will save you from that awkward moment where you shrug and admit that you just have the t-shirt.

Threadless (threadless.com) and Design By Humans (designbyhumans.com): These two companies share the philosophy that buying t-shirts should be a peer-to-peer transaction without sticky-fingered companies or labels involved. Depending on their popularity, the designs are either one-of-a-kind or reprinted, but either way this is another opportunity to support artists directly while securing yourself a new shirt. The sheer number of artists featured on both sites means that some intensive browsing will be in order to find something that really grabs you, but the fact that these shirts all come from a single artist’s mind rather than a corporate review process guarantees some incredible designs. Plus, pricing is always kept on the reasonable side. Bless those starving artists on their impossibly low standards for success.

Mr. Porter (mrporter.com): Mr. Porter is an online retailer that supplies clothes by designers who otherwise don’t have an online sales presence, so this isn’t so much a great place for anyone to find t-shirts, but those with a specifically high-class taste will. No graphics or kitsch here, just basic t-shirts with excellent fits, subtle colors and occasionally jaw-dropping price tags. Included here because, all jokes aside, the shirts on this site are designed to make anyone look impossibly cool. It’s also the kind of site where the model wearing the t-shirt is also wearing a big scarf and holding a leather weekend bag. Just because.

Pop of Color: Spring Bags

To add an eye-catching pop of color to any outfit this spring, a perfect handbag is essential. Not only are bags highly coveted accessories, they are arguably also the most functional. Bags are great because they come in all shapes and sizes and can be switched per outfit and for any occasion.

This spring, Marni’s color-block bags incorporated an already-growing trend into a functional accessory. The shoulder bags come in several different shades like red and black, and they add a pop of stark white that is excellent for the spring season. This is a great bag to take shopping or to work, as it’s roomy enough for all your essentials and is sleek and stylish for a more upscale or professional environment.

Structure and hardware are big spring handbag trends that are also great for a more dressed-up day look. Balenciaga’s unique white handbags this spring feature a heavy-duty lock buckle and tassel. This bag recalls vintage makeup carriers, and it is perfect for storing those smaller items. Lanvin also has a creamy white bag with plenty of hardware this spring, but this design has more of a mailbox shape with contrasting wood and gold metal accents.

For that special pop of color, Dolce & Gabbana’s spring handbags are show stoppers. The tribal, tropical bags feature exotic textures and worldly prints that are excellent for traveling during spring break. The bags are small and easy to tote, and they will certainly spark a few conversations.

Prada is kicking it old school with its ’90s-inspired mini totes that come in red shiny leather. They bring to mind Tommy Hilfiger color schemes and “Clueless” accessories, and their ease and transportability make them an awesome bag to take to the beach, movie theater, mall or anywhere in between.

Envelope-inspired portfolio bags are another hot trend this season, and they recall men’s business-wear and designer’s portfolio cases. This combination makes them chic and classy, and their flat, rectangular shape is a nice departure from the standard clutch or boho bag.

Structure and color are trendy this season, so set aside those slouchy earth-toned boho bags and trade them for a clean, crisp and colorful bag that you can carry from work to dinner or school to shopping during the spring season.

Look Fashionable and Save Money

We’ve all been there: we have an event coming up and didn’t have a chance to buy a cute new outfit for it yet. Suddenly it’s three days away and you don’t have anything to wear! Never fear, because with this helpful list, you’ll be able to purchase something hip and save money at the same time.

TJ Maxx: TJ Maxx is a great place to shop if you need a cheap outfit at the very last minute. Their official site writes that they sell a wide variety of different designer brands for 60% less than the price of the department stores. They also sell shoes and accessories too, so you can buy everything you need all in one day’s shopping trip!

Century 21: If you’re lucky enough to live in New York City or New Jersey, head over to Century 21! Much like TJ Maxx, this store offers your favorite designer brands for 65% less of the retail price. From dresses to work clothes to shoes, Century 21 has something for men, women, and children. They also offer a free loyalty program, which will help make future last-minute purchases cheaper too.

Forever 21: Whether you’re going out on a date or a night on the town with your girlfriends, Forever 21 is another excellent place to shop if you need an inexpensive last minute outfit. While it is geared more towards teenaged girls and women in their early to mid-20’s, the store also has some cheap career clothes that will definitely make you look fashion forward on your next interview and won’t break your wallet. Also, don’t worry if you don’t live near any of the store locations! You can always purchase what you want on their website and pay a little extra for express shipping if need be.

Make Me Chic: This website is another excellent option if you need a cheap outfit and the clock is ticking down. They sell extremely cute affordable items like dresses, shirts, boots, and high heels so you’ll never need to scramble to find a good outfit. Make Me Chic also offers second day and overnight shipping, although the prices for those two options are based on the actual weight of the clothes you buy. Still, if you’re in a pinch and love funky clothes, this online store is a great place to find a cheap outfit!

Thrift Stores: Thrift stores such as the Salvation Army are a great way to hunt for some inexpensive outfits. If you’re lucky enough to live in or near New York City, CBS New York offers a list of the five best thrift stores in Manhattan. If you need an outfit right away and can’t afford to spend a lot of money, grab a friend or two and hit the thrift shops! If you have a lot of patience, you’ll be sure to make some great fashion-forward purchases there.

No matter whether you head to a retail store like Century 21, an online store, or a thrift shop, with a little patience you’ll be able to purchase an awesome outfit for discount prices. Happy shopping!

Soon To Take Over Walmart: It’s “Penny Chic”

“A penny for your thoughts.” Well, Shauna Miller wasn’t even charging that when she started her blog, Penny Chic, and now, two years later, she’s charging $20 per each little black dress (LBD) in her own clothing line at Walmart.

It’s the classic American tale.  Girl moves to New York City, girl gets job, girl realizes she can not afford to style it up like the pretty people.  It happened to me when I came to New York City, but they didn’t have blogs back then and I probably wouldn’t have shouted to the rooftops that I was too poor to buy anything that cost over $20 (even though I was and even though I still am).

So I get it and I applaud it and, yes!, ladies, we can now not only read about Shauna Miller’s great finds, we can pick up an LBD or two for a great price at Walmart.  Miller has five creations in the line that is set to debut in February 2013 and four of them are featured in an edition of Glamour Magazine.  The dresses are made in the USA and are pretty much wash and wear which is great because for those of us who enjoy being Penny Chic why be a pound foolish and buy clothes that require expensive dry cleaning?

Miller’s blog covers an array subjects like how to go from work to play chic, trendy chic, comfy chic and all for very low prices.  There’s advice on how to tone down the price of the looks Miller’s celebrity inspirations are wearing and she even has a video segment with her “Finds Of The Week.”  It is evident that Miller took her passion and turned it into profit; she moved to New York City to work in fashion.

Shauna Miller and “Penny Chic” have come a long way since her days right out of college when she was in a glittery new place and couldn’t afford too many of the glitzy things that others might have been wearing, but she hasn’t forgotten what it was like to have to live in this economy.  With her new line of clothes at Walmart all costing about $20 it is a little more than a Penny for her Chic thoughts, but it is totally worth it.

Zara Sneaker Wedges

In high school, I lived and breathed Air Force Ones. Once college rolled around, I still wore a lot of sneakers, only a lot cooler, like limited edition Asics Onitsuka Tigers. By junior year of college, I barely owned a sneaker besides some Chuck Taylors, which is a classic every man and woman should own. Later, I finally hung up my sneakers and sported more heels, boots, and flats.

Then things changed. The past couple of seasons, it’s been all about the sneaker wedge and I did not want to fall into the trap of the trend. Alas, season after season, they still remain and I have finally given in and fell in love. I hadn’t really found an Isabel Marant inspired pair that I loved, and almost gave up until I came across these Studded Sneakers ($99.90) on Zara.com. I needed them ASAP.

After days of missing the Fedex man, they were finally in my hands. And I’ve been sporting them non-stop ever since. They are super comfortable and look even better in person. For the price, the quality is great and they fit true to size. Although these sneakers are understated, the studs give it an extra kick that I love so much. I have been wearing these with everything lately. They are only available online, so get them while you can!

To read more visit Spoiled Little LA Girls

Forever 21 Makes Shopping a Breeze With New App

In most malls in American cities and suburbs, young, female shoppers flock to the brightly colored haven of chic and modern clothing: Forever 21. The store often spans multiple levels and is sprawling, vast and, at times, overwhelming. With hundreds of tops, dresses, pants, skirts, shoes and accessories to look at, it can either be an exciting shopping adventure or a stressful nightmare. Depending on your perspective, when you enter Forever 21, you have a certain set of expectations in mind before even picking up one clothing item. You know the clothing is delightfully inexpensive, high-fashion but still wearable and others may know where you got it even though it lacks the bold, no-nonsense advertising of stores like Hollister and Aeropostale.

Forever 21′s clothing is sophisticated enough for young professionals but still edgy and feminine for teenage customers. For the gleeful teen or tween, dragging along your girlfriends and browsing through the sparkly, flowery, velvety treasures in the store is a dream. For the older shoppers who are more practical or time conscious, entering the store can be confusing and more of a chore than a delight. Fortunately, Forever 21 has released an app for the iPhone and iPad that allows for virtual shopping while skipping the overwhelming stores and long lines.

The Forever 21 app features a sleek, modern design that allows users to browse through its online catalog with a simple scroll and swipe of the fingers. You can check out the sales, coupons and special discounts right at your fingertips, and for those trying to style the perfect outfit, you can browse through a specialized look book to see just how the clothing fits. The app allows you to shop on the go, or, if the stores are not too intimidating, you can locate the nearest shopping location with a touch-screen map. That way, if you browse through the catalog and find a piece of clothing you love, you can hit up the nearest store and try it on. If you’d rather skip the in-person shopping, you can simply order the item right on the phone. It’s incredibly simple and easy for those who either don’t have time to browse through the large Forever 21 stores or would rather shop from home, train, car or anywhere in between.

For All The Digital Fashionista’s

Looking for the hottest new fashion trends this season? Then you must check out the Snapette app.  Similar to the idea of Pinterest, Snapette lets its users post about the latest fashion trends that they love ranging from different shoes, shirts, dresses, stores, companies, and so much more.  This app is different though because it not only lets you share your favorite looks, but also tells you about different sales and where to shop.  This app is available for both the iPhone and Android and is a great addition to your fashion thoughts.

“How do we do it? We have a style savvy community of active, trendsetting users around the world posting their top shopping finds and purchases tagged to stores. We’ve also partnered with over 180 top brands and retailers in cities like New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Tokyo, and London to give shoppers the inside scoop on new products, sales, offers, and in-store events exclusive to Snapette users.” Says Snapette founders Sarah and Jinhee

For more on Snapette, Visit Snapette.com

Trending Fashion News

This season, fashion is all about opulence. Sparkles and sheen, intricate details and deep, rich colors have been the trend as the days get colder and the nights get longer. Warm shades and sumptuous fabrics with fabulous finishes and even faux fur set the stage.

Fashion is taking its cue from the movies, and this winter, the latest remake of the classic novel turned Anna Karenina has been a hit at the cinemas as much for the costumes as the plot. Set in Russia in the nineteenth century and starring the stunning Keira Knightly in the title role, Academy Award nominated designer Jacqueline Durran showcases the romantic styles of the film’s era. A capsule collection inspired by Durran’s favorite pieces from the set was transformed into a more modern look and were available exclusively at Banana Republic. The line is resplendent with art deco style jewelry, delicate lace embellishments and velvet, and is one of the best looks of the season.

Faux fur is being seen everywhere this year, with the Russian –style hats from the Anna Karenina collection to the fun, funky vests seen everywhere. Besides faux fur, rich fabrics like velvet and brocade are showing up on everything from accent pieces to pants. Sequins are also an easy way to up the glamour, and sparkly tank tops and dresses are perfect for the party season.

One of the season’s hottest trends has been leather or leather-like skinny jeans and jeggings. The term ‘jeggings’ was coined as a combination of leggings and jeans. The bright candy colors that were one of the biggest fashion trends of the summer have been transformed with basic black and muted metallics such as bronze and pewter, and these statement-making pants are one of the keys looks seen everywhere and at every price-point, from low to high-end retailers.

Footwear has taken on a sexy and edgy look, with a lot of embellishment. Studs, spikes and glitter have made their way to shoes and boots, from flats to heels to boots. The equestrian look is still very popular for boots, and slim riding boots with buckles or harness detailing are a perfect choice for the cooler weather, and look fabulous with everything from skirts to skinny jeans.

This fall, the key to looking great combines classic and timeless pieces with a little bit of edge.

Bloomingdales.com: Your Big Brown Digital Bag

Upscale shopping has never been easier than browsing Bloomingdales. It is an essential part of a picturesque afternoon, and the beautiful and luxurious clothing leaves shoppers ogling every day. Shopping the designer clothing is even more convenient from your phone, tablet or computer by logging on to Bloomingdales.com. With its impressively extensive list of designers ranging from Michael Kors to Lacoste, there is something for every age group and style.

Bloomingdales.com allows shoppers to browse by designer or collection. The site offers a “Holiday Style Guide” and even a wedding shop for those looking for a more customized experience. Women’s items range from a variety of designs and trends and contain dresses, sweaters, jackets, sleepwear and much more. The “Contemporary” section of the site holds the latest trends for young women as well as plus sizes. Bloomingdales.com even offers men’s, kids, home and beauty items for shoppers. There’s a little something for everyone browsing the site, and the sales and special deals are constant.

Those with wedding bells ringing can even start a registry on the site for a variety of items from upscale dining sets to luxurious towels and bedding collections. Those who sign up for the registry receive plenty of perks for doing so, including free monogramming on almost al sheets, towels and robes, a honeymoon travel kit and coupons and discounts. Bloomingdales.com even has a Big Brown Bag app so users can scan and add items directly to their registry or wish list straight from their smartphone.

Now through Dec. 20, shoppers receive free shipping on any item purchased on Bloomingdales.com. Fill up that big brown bag with cashmere sweaters from your favorite designers, statement necklaces, crystal drinking glasses, unique kid’s toys or just about any other item your heart desires. Bloomingdales.com offers the wide selection of any department store with a more upscale, user-friendly touch that makes it easy to shop from home or on the go. Now you don’t have to be in a big city to get all the perks of Bloomingdales. You can shop online, add items to your wish list and enjoy the perks of holiday online shopping.