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Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Four Days Early...Target GO International Private Label Collection 2 Preview & Review

Knowing that Target often receives its GO International Private Label Collections early, I went to a store near me today to inspect the latest effort by Target's in-house design team. While it's not supposed to be in stores until June 29, I called first to confirm my hunch that it had been set out on the floor a few days early. Having seen preview photos online, I knew which items I was looking for - mostly the floral pieces. (Lately I've been drawn to florals, and I can thank Luella Bartley for that!) As I browsed the 3 racks, I noticed that only about half of the collection was on the floor. Each item only had one size, and it appeared that a few pieces had been snatched up already. I carefully inspected my favorite ones, and with a heavy armful, headed off to the dressing room for another one of my GO International photoshoots.

Target Go International Private label The blue cotton A-line top that I tried on first had cute button details, cutaway sleeves and a cutaway back hemline, which I liked. I did not like the fit (it runs large) and decided not to buy it because the top really did not flatter me. For consumers who buy this, perhaps a skinny belt or fitted vest would help to emphasize the waistline.

Target Go International Private label
The two photos above show me in the 100% rayon ruffle tank dress, which I preferred in black. The fuchsia is a size small, while the black is a medium. I sized up to a medium because I realized in the 2-way mirror and harsh lighting that the dress is quite form-fitting and shows every curve. The 2-layered ruffled sleeves sit over a tank silhouette, and the V-neckline is flattering. The ruffle down the front, which I was expecting to be very unflattering, actually helps to camouflage the stomach area. (That's helpful if your stomach isn't perfectly flat.) I ended up buying the black one, as it will make a perfect little black dress for all seasons.

Target Go International Private label
Next I tried on the (100% polyester) floral cowl neck tank, which has a criss cross back and very low neckline. I will have to look for this in an extra small, as the straps on the small were too long. There isn't enough fabric in the front for the cowl neck to drape properly, but I like the shape of the top. For 100% polyester, it feels like a low quality silk. With the exception of the fact that it runs big, I give this top a thumbs up. The multi-layer ruffle skirt looked good with the floral top, but it wasn't unique enough for me to want to buy. I tried a size 3, and it ran big in the waist. The fabric was very lightweight, and the ruffles are asymmetrical. Overall, a thumbs up, but not enough to warrant a purchase. (Note to Target designers - if it was printed or in a different/lighter/more summery color, I probably would have bought it.)

Target Go International Private label

The slash-pocket floral shorts fit me well, as I sized up to a 5. I tucked the floral cowl neck tank into the shorts and it looks like a one-piece. At $24.99, these shorts are one of the best pieces in the collection. They skim the hips in a flattering way, are made of 100% cotton, and with all of the colors in the floral print, they're versatile for mixing and matching. Definitely a thumbs up.

Target Go International Private label The floral print flounce miniskirt was the next item that I tried on. Like with the shorts, I kept the floral top on to see how they'd look together. The skirt is also 100% cotton, and has a nice red interior waistband. I would have liked to have seen on-seam side pockets on this skirt, but for $26.99, you can't have everything. This piece has pleats like a cheerleader skirt, and although I was expecting them to add bulk and be unflattering, I was pleasantly surprised. It would make a great skirt for daytime or for a night on the town. My verdict on this one? Thumbs up, and I bought it.


After the miniskirt I tried on the floral print camisole and the slash-pocket shorts in pink. The shorts were exactly the same as the floral ones, so I decided not to buy them since I wasn't crazy about the coral-pink hue. The camisole had a slightly blurry digital-ish floral print, and a banded elastic waistband. I tried it in extra small, and it was quite tight and constricting in the bust area, but large in the waist area. In the 3 photos below, I tried wearing it tucked under and then I tucked it in to reduce the volume. I didn't buy either of these pieces. I give the camisole a thumbs down for poor fit and a slighty dizzying print.



I liked the fit of the coral-pink racerback tank pictured above and below, but it's one of my least favorite colors, so I passed on it. The stripes on the back are sheer, and of the same color as the shorts, so the two pieces work well together. I was pleased with the fit (a size small), as it was consistent throughout the bust, waist, and hip area. Below, I tucked it into the shorts, so it appears shorter than it really is.


The final item that I tried was this double-layer tank in blue. The two pieces weren't sewn together very well, and the fit runs small/narrow in the waist area. It's a nice basic tank top for summer, however, I didn't find this piece to be terribly unique or exciting from a fashion designer's point of view, so I didn't buy it.

I also spied a great floral ruffled bikini, but they didn't have my size, so I'll keep looking. Also on my wish list from this collection are the tiered ruffled floral dress, the tan graphic tee, the tiered ruffle miniskrt, the tiered ruffled top and maybe the one-shoulder top.

**June 28th update - for a review of more pieces from the collection, read my review from Friday June 27th here.

© 2008 Fashion Trend Guide

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

What To Wear To A Rock Concert

With all the excitement about outdoor summer music festivals and what to wear to them, I thought I'd devote a post to indoor rock shows. I think many fashion bloggers have done a great job of recommending what to wear to the festivals, and since they've got it covered, I'm turning my attention to what you might wear to a small indoor venue. Since many shows take place at night, that means potentially cooler temperatures and more opportunities for layering (unless the chosen venue lacks fans or air conditioning). Some high heels might help you to get a better view of the band, but the ones I've selected below may not be for everybody. If you want to limit discomfort and the potential squashing of your toes by some inebriated fan (and do some dancing), then opt for some chic ankle boots, pumps, or other closed-toe footwear. In my opinion, a show is a great chance to exhibit a fun, youthful style, with pieces such as brightly colored denim, a fringed handbag, or a statement-making hat.

what to wear to a rock concert Pictured above: 1. Women's faces tee, Old Navy, $14.50, 2. Satin waist vest, Forever 21, $22.80, 3. Inspector fedora hat, Forever 21, $10.80, 4. Suede dangle strands purse, GoJane, $25.99, 5. Masonic heels, Report Footwear, $254, 6. Stretch skinny jeans, Forever 21, $27.80.

March 24, 2019 update - Get more outfit ideas:


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March 2015 update - Due to the popularity of this post, I've updated it with some new outfit ideas under $150. See more of my favorite style finds by following me on Facebook

What to wear to a rock concert, See rock concert outfit ideas
1. Felt Panama hat, $28
2. Layered pendant necklace (also in silver), $36
3. Denim shirt, $65
4. Isabel and Ruben Toledo for MAC lipstick (other colors available) $17.50
5. Bouclé striped jumper, $70
6. Button front denim skirt, $52
7. Flash Temporary Tattoos (more styles here), $22-$30
8. High waisted shorts, $52
9. Lace-up suede wedges, $110
10. Fringe crossbody bag, $28
11. Fringe ankle boots, $150

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Saturday, June 21, 2008

Summer Solstice Style in Santa Barbara

Along with thousands of cheerful parade-goers, I welcomed the official start of summer and the longest day of the year by attending the Summer Solstice Parade and Festival today in Santa Barbara. As the afternoon progressed, the normally pristine and reasonably quiet sidewalks of State Street grew busy as people of all ages lined up to stake out a prime parade-watching spot. Colorful decorations including confetti eggs, butterfly wings, and floral headbands made many appearances during the festivities. My favorite street style trends included tie-dye tees, peasant tops, short cutoff shorts, skimpy jersey sundresses, gladiator sandals, and fringed handbags. This is one of the few days in Santa Barbara where you can get away with wearing a multi-colored jester hat, a tulle tutu, a feather boa, or bright yellow tights without being given a dirty look.

Santa Barbara summer solstice
Santa Barbara summer solstice
Santa Barbara summer solstice
Santa Barbara summer solstice

Below, some of the colorful parade watchers and participants

Santa Barbara summer solstice
Santa Barbara summer solstice



Below, some of my favorite street styles



After watching the parade, it was time to seek refuge from the heat and grab a bite to eat at Tupelo Junction, which has amazing Southern-inspired cuisine and even serves breakfast all day. After walking around the festival, I couldn't resist popping inside Crushcakes Cupcakery (on Anacapa St.) to satisfy my sweet tooth. With flavors such as strawberry blush and peanut butter cup, I knew I was in cupcake heaven. What's a summer afternoon without a small sugary indulgence that practically melts in your mouth? You gotta love Santa Barbara...

Happy summer to my readers in the Northern Hemisphere!

© 2008 Fashion Trend Guide

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Back To Basics

cookies
With all of the blog content theft that I've experienced lately, I've been feeling disillusioned about the blogosphere. I've decided to take a break to enjoy some activities such as baking cookies and reading Japanese fashion magazines. In the meantime, I will still be reading and posting comments on my favorite blogs. I just need a breath of fresh air to rejuvenate and remember why I started this blog in the first place...

Japanese fashion magazines

I'll be back soon!

© 2008 Fashion Trend Guide

Monday, June 16, 2008

Trend On The Rise - Star Prints

star prints
Playful star prints can look fun and youthful or sophisticated and luxurious depending on how they're worn. This summer, they adorn everything from totes and footwear to swimwear and jewelry. So go ahead, and reach for the stars! Pictured above:
1. Star dangle earrings, Charlotte Russe, $4
2. Starfield blouse, Forever 21, $19.80
3. Star hoodie, Alloy, $38.50
4. Ra ra skirt, New Look, £10 (or about $20)
5. Polka stars flip flops, Wet Seal, $7.50
6. Converse multi-star Chucks, dELiA*s, $47

Photo credit: charlotte-russe.com, forever21.com, alloy.com, newlook.co.uk, wetseal.com, delias.com

South Coast Plaza Shopping

South Coast Plaza
A quick trip to Orange County's upscale mecca of materialism, also known as South Coast Plaza, was just what I needed to get inspired by summer fashion trends this past weekend. When the stores in my hometown begin to look stale in terms of trends, South Coast Plaza never lets me down. Since my last excursion to South Coast Plaza, a Bloomingdales has opened, and I'm pleased to report that Balenciaga will be opening soon. While I didn't do much shopping because my time was limited, I did hit up my main targets: H&M, Zara, Wet Seal, and the Apple Store. As luck would have it, there are two H&M stores at the shopping center. One has men's, children's and Divided, the youthful trend-driven line. The other has mostly women's basics and accessories. Overall, I was disapointed by both of South Coast's H&M stores, as I think the Westfield Topanga store that I often visit carries more trend-driven items, such as balloon trousers, maxi dresses, tie-neck blouses, neon tees, and the gladiator sandals that I saw there recently. Or perhaps those trendy Orange County gals scoop up all the good stuff.

At Zara, I admired some ankle cuff thong sandals in black leather and some beige studded gladiators for close to $100. I also saw some interesting drop-crotch, cropped, faded denim trousers for $60. I still haven't seen anyone wearing them, but they intrigue me nonetheless. At Wet Seal, zebra prints, bold graphic tees, neon pumps, and yellow jersey tops dominated the racks. I bought some fushia acid-washed skinnies, a floral tunic, a leopard graphic tee with a gold foil print, and a blue zebra print tee. It looks like the fascination with the '80s is sticking around this season. I actually broke my promise to never wear acid-washed jeans!

Above and below, neon-themed window displays at Diesel

© 2008 Fashion Trend Guide. All right reserved.

Friday, June 13, 2008

The 3 R's

reusable canvas shopping bag Lately I have been bringing my canvas totes along whenever I'm out shopping in order to reduce the amount of plastic and paper bags that I use. After peeking under the sink and seeing the outrageous amount of bags that have accumulated over the years, I'm astounded and disgusted by my previous lack of responsibility. So now I try to make it a habit to fold up a canvas bag in my handbag or put some in the car so I have them with me when I'm out shopping. On many occasions, a sales clerk will look surprised and shocked when I ask them if I can use my own bags instead of theirs. Why is this so unusual? Is it such a foreign idea to southern Californians? I should think not; I think it's time that more people start bringing their own reusable bags. For me, this is one small lifestyle change, and by blogging about it, I hope to raise awareness about the need to be eco-friendly and reduce waste. I feel so much better knowing that I've saved dozens of bags from ending up in landfills, and my goal is to continue to add more eco-friendly habits to my lifestyle.

© 2008 Fashion Trend Guide. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without permission.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Maxx-imum Labels For Less

More often than not, I have a general idea of what I'm looking for when I'm shopping. Other times, my mental shopping lists go out the window, as I'm overwhelmed by either the large size or selection of the store in which I'm shopping. A brief trip to TJ Maxx last night yielded some pleasant surprises, as I didn't find what I had in mind, but did find some rather impressive deals. As I scoured the racks, I saw labels such as Theory, J& Co., Michael Kors, Tag Jeans, American Eagle, DKNY, Apple Bottoms, and Free People. Then I laid eyes on a pair of Cheap Mondays and I blurted out loud in utter amazement. The price? Only $15. Minutes later, I stumbled upon a pair of Rich & Skinny wide-leg jeans for $40. Not bad! So what did yours truly, Poster Girl, buy? Well I picked up both pairs of jeans with a triumphant smile. Shopping at TJ Maxx has definitely improved since my last visit years ago, and so has their website. They now have an interactive online community that allows users to explore forums and polls, send alerts about their favorite finds, and interact with photos. Use it to find out what other shoppers are buying and to show off your latest purchases. With everything from bath towels and luggage to scarves and table lamps, it's hard to walk out of TJ Maxx empty-handed.



TJ MaxxAbove - designer handbags

TJ Maxx

Lots of shoes, neatly paired & organized by size

TJ Maxx Suitcases for your summer trip

TJ Maxx This silk floral tunic by Free People caught my eye at only $40

This striped woven top would make a great layering piece for summer under a crisp vest


© 2008 Fashion Trend Guide. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without permission.

Monday, June 9, 2008

Reader Poll - Harem Pants

What do you think of harem pants - fashion do or fashion don't?

asos harem pants

Photo from asos.com

Friday, June 6, 2008

How To Wear - The Statement Necklace

The statement necklace is shaping up to be an important trend for summer '08. While I love footwear, sunglasses, hats, and handbags, I have always found that a stunning necklace can quickly make an outfit go from blah to brilliant. For SS '08, bold necklaces turned up on the runways at Loewe, Michael Kors, Emilio Pucci, Lanvin, and Marni. While this trend is not for those who shy away from attention, here are a few tips to help you carry it off if you're brave enough:

1. Avoid mixing prints with bold necklaces. Solid tops and dresses in simple silhouettes will ensure that your necklace remains the center of attention.
2. Keep your neckline simple. Avoid complicated halter necklines, as they will interfere with your jewelry. Scoop, V-neck, and strapless styles work best to show off your neck area.
3. Limit other accessories when wearing a bold necklace. For example, avoid wearing long dangling earrings, chunky bangles, and trendy headwear in order to keep the focus on the necklace.
4. Keep in mind the proportions of the necklace and your body when styling it. If you're petite, then a necklace that drapes to your waist can make you look shorter. If you're long-waisted, then opt for a larger style.
5. Keep your tresses in a sleek style. A simple, tamed hairstyle will allow your necklace to take center stage.


charm necklace

Wood and charms necklace, Topshop, £40

Image from topshop.com

© 2008 Fashion Trend Guide.

For The Love Of Accessories

With a relatively new line of Men's clothing and a collection of accessories called For Love 21, my favorite southern California-based cheap chic retailer, Forever 21, is gradually evolving into a lifestyle brand. As I browsed the new For Love 21 site, I noticed that they expanded their normal accessories line to include items such as luggage tags, cosmetic bags, watches, books, small gifts, and pins. Over the years, I've acquired quite a collection of necklaces and rings from Forever 21, but I admit to rarely buying their handbags, earrings, or belts. As someone who loves to occasionally splurge on of-the-moment, inexpensive accessories, I'm looking forward to seeing what the line has to offer. In addition to their expanding accessories, I have also noticed a growing selection of footwear in many of the Forever 21 stores that I have visited over the past few months. While the selection can vary greatly from store to store, it pays to peek around and check the floor displays or under the clothing racks, as the footwear is not always merchandised in the most compelling way. Below are some of my best picks from the For Love 21 collection.

For Love 21 accessories Forever 21 1. Luggage tag, $9.80, 2. 1001 Ways To Save The Earth book, $9.80, 3. Cotton cap, $8.80, 4. Color thread teardrop earrings, $5.80, 5. Fern pin, $6.80.

Photo credit: forever21.com

© 2008 Fashion Trend Guide

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Summer Style Guide

summer style guide
Hot summer days are right around the corner, and that, along with some magazine reading, has inspired me to create a list of 10 things you need for summer. Think of these as mere suggestions from a southern California girl who cherishes living close to the beach but also prioritizes sun protection. Whether you're going to a music festival, a picnic in the park, or a family barbecue, these items will ensure that you have a sunburn-free and stylish summer. Pictured above:

1. Sun protection - Burt's Bees SPF 15 sunscreen, Target, $12.99
2. Bad hair day solution - chambray fedora, Urban Outfitters, $9.99
3. Floral frock - border stripe floral dress, Warehouse, $120
4. Sexy shades - round contrast sunglasses, Topshop, $30
5. Eco-friendly bag - Lulu organic tote, Target, $9.99
6. Watercolor florals - printed tunic, Wet Seal, $17.50
7. Retro swimsuit - bandeau one-piece, dELiA*s, $33.50
8. Natural nails - OPI nail lacquer in Sweet Heart, drugstore.com, $5.73
9. Fabulous footwear - Halston cuff boot sandal, Topshop, $50
10. Colored skinny denim - Car Mar cigarette side zip pant, LF Stores, $184
© 2008 Fashion Trend Guide
Images from: warehouse.co.uk, topshop.com, target.com, drugstore.com, delias.com, lfstores.com, urbanoutfitters.com, wetseal.com