Holiday 2018 Gifts Under $50

Can you believe that 2018 is almost over? I know it's not even Thanksgiving or Black Friday yet, but you can never be too prepared for the holidays. To get myself and my readers ready for the holiday shopping season, I'm previewing the holiday deals online at my favorite retailers such as Nordstrom, Target, and Macy's. In this holiday gift guide, I'll be sharing some stylish and affordable gift ideas for everyone that are under $50. See what to get your loved ones, stay on budget, and maybe even reward yourself with something special. You deserve it. 

November 22, 2018 update - Get a head start on the holiday shopping season with this guide to the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2018 sales and coupon codes. 

November 18, 2018 update - Shop these beauty gifts under $50:

November 14, 2018 update - More sales to check out right now:

Anthropologie - 20% off all home items (ends soon)

ASOS - 30% off dresses and jumpsuits

Lord & Taylor - take 40% off sitewide with code DEALS until November 19

Macy's - receive up to 30% off sitewide plus 15% cosmetics with code FALLBACK until November 16

Nordstrom - fall sale up to 40% off until November 18

Shopbop - fall sale with up to 40% off

Target - save up to 25% on home items through November 17


This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated if purchases are made by clicking links.

Keep up with my fashion adventures and get more gift ideas with me on social media @thekeytochic.

Shop more holiday gift ideas:

DV by Dolce Vita at Target Spring 2016 Shoe Review

This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated if purchases are made by clicking links. 

You may recall the small collaboration that footwear brand Dolce Vita did with Target in the summer of 2010. They offered a well edited selection of studded oxfords, ballet flats, and ankle boots under $35. Full disclosure: I still regret not buying their buckled ankle boot. #ShoeAddict

Fast forward to February 2016 and Target has teamed up with Dolce Vita again, this time for a new collection of sandals and espadrilles under the DV by Dolce Vita line. While sandals dominate the selection, there's a notable cutaway ankle boot called the Nya that's similar to Dolce Vita's 'Noa' boot and 'Haddee' boot. The fringe peep-toe 'Josie' boot at Target looks a lot like Dolce Vita's 'Mazarine' boot. See the similarities? 

September 28, 2017 update - See new fall styles:

See the newest by Dolce Vita:

June 27, 2017 update - Shop main line Dolce Vita:

May 4, 2017 update - See my new favorites:

January 16, 2017 update - See my spring 2017 dv by Dolce Vita shoe review.

Here are some of my favorite spring 2016 styles. 



Here's a look at the bags that my Target store had to offer.





Thong sandals and espadrilles are displayed in a variety of colors, all under $30. 



Use #dvlook to share your style.



Now for the sizing. The Skye espadrilles come in two colors and run slightly small. (They remind me of the Dolce Vita 'Ceyla' espadrilles, which have studs, or the Dolce Vita 'Ciara' espadrilles, which are lacking the ankle strap and woven uppers.) If you have wide feet, I'd go half a size up for these. I found them to be slightly narrow in the toe box. They have nicely cushioned insoles and are a little stiff. 





The Ottie espadrilles come in three prints and have cushioned insoles. The black print below is similar to Dolce Vita's 'Javier' sandal. The Ottie style runs true to size and felt the most comfortable of all the styles I tried on. They're perfect for casual summer days when paired with denim, shorts, and day dresses.



I love the colors below when paired with dark denim. There's a matching wristlet for under $20. 



The Kaden thong sandals run big and have a nice back zip. They look much like the Dolce Vita 'Marnie' sandal. They were way too big in length and my foot slid around, so I'd go a full size down on these. I found them to be slightly less comfortable than the other sandals in the collection.



The Kaya thong sandals are true to size. They also come in black or tan. They're similar to Dolce Vita's 'Dixin' sandal, they felt comfortable, and have cute braiding detail on the straps.



The Kensley thong sandals run slightly big. I'd go a half size down on these. They come in three other colors. Note the metallic detail on the toe area, which gives them a dressy look. These felt similar to the Kaya pictured above in terms of comfort. 



The Nya booties are almost sold out, so had to try a 6.5 instead of my usual 7. They felt really comfortable, easy to walk in, and they fit well. 

Feb. 25, 2016 update: I tried on a size 7 (my regular size) and found them to run slightly big, so I'd go half size down on these. The same goes for the Josie fringe booties. 



Please excuse the track pants. Instead, I'd wear these booties with crochet dresses, printed rompers (like this summer-ready V-neck style under $50), and cropped denim (like this MiH pair) for spring. The Western styling and mule silhouette is particularly on-trend for 2016. In fact, you can see more of my favorite mule shoes for spring in this trend report.



There's also a selection of DV handbags under $45, including this fringe bucket bag and this chain strap crossbody bag that I have my eye on. I'm looking forward to seeing more of their shoes (especially ankle boots like these fringe 'Josie' boots which resemble the Dolce Vita 'Mazarine' open toe boot) and bags as we get closer to the spring/summer season. As far as Dolce Vita goes, I'm currently admiring this suede lace-up wedge and these lace-up stacked heel sandals. 

Love shoes? See my fall 2016 shoe trend report and keep up with my fashion and shopping adventures on Snapchat with user name thekeytochic.

Shop DV by Dolce Vita:

LC Lauren Conrad Minnie Rocks the Dots Review

LC Lauren Conrad and Disney have teamed up again at Kohl's, this time for a collection called Minnie Rocks the Dots. Sounds cute, right? Who doesn't love Mickey and Minnie? After seeing a few pieces online, my curiosity got the best of me. I paid a visit to my local Kohl's on a quiet weekday morning to style some looks for this fitting room review.

Here's a closer look at the details, which are exactly what you'd expect to see from a collaboration between Disney and Lauren Conrad: hearts, Minnie Mouse-inspired micro prints, flouncy bows, and Peter Pan collars. The color palette consists mostly of red, navy, and ivory, making it easy to mix and match the entire collection.



In The Fitting Room

For reference, I'm petite and weigh 102 lbs. I'm wearing size 2 in the dresses and XS in the tops. Side note: since I always get questions about my shoes, my heels are from eBay, and you can shop a similar style under $40 or this high-heeled style by Sole Society for under $70.

The polka dot dress runs true to size and has a tailored waist with no stretch. If you're curvy, I advise sizing up on this piece. The center back zipper is much better quality than previous LC collections, and the skirt portion is lined. There is a ruffled placket in the front and the knee length makes it perfect for the office or for a party. This one is well made and looks more expensive than it is.



The collared top runs ever so slightly narrow in the hip area compared to other tops in the collection, and the button closures on the cuffs can be tricky. It's comfortable, medium weight rayon, and I think it would pair well tucked into A-line or pencil skirts.



The collared tunic is lightweight (and slightly sheer) with an oversized, stretchy fit and jersey construction. The hem is longer in the back, and the collar is a cute double layer scalloped style.



The printed tank top has an easy fit, runs true to size, and is lightweight. It's polyester, prone to static cling, and the one on the left is the most sheer. I envision this tucked into skirts and layered under a blazer for a more polished look.



The graphic tees are oversized and lightweight, with a longer hemline in the back than the front. The one on the left is the most sheer, and the texture is a multi-flecked/nubby rayon/poly blend (almost like linen but less prone to wrinkles). My favorite is the striped version on the right. 



Here are the two of the tees tucked in.



For more style from Kohl's, see my spring 2016 LC Lauren Conrad fitting room review on The Key To Chic.

This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated if purchases are made by clicking links.

Keep up with my shopping adventures on Snapchat, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook @thekeytochic.

October 18, 2018 update - For more Kohl's style, see my POPSUGAR at Kohl's review. 

Shop LC Lauren Conrad:

The Look for Less - Manolo Blahnik Hangisi Pumps Dupes

Sex and the City may be long over, but its fashion influence still lives on. Take, for example the iconic Manolo Blahnik 'Hangisi' pumps from Carrie Bradshaw's proposal with Mr Big. With their bold blue finish, ultra feminine jeweled embellishments, and sleek stiletto shape, they are the ultimate in fancy footwear. While Carrie Bradshaw wore many memorable styles during the beloved HBO series, her Manolo 'Hangisi' wedding pumps are right up there with her tutu, nameplate necklace, and flower corsage on the list of trend-setting pieces that have reached icon status.

Shop the Manolo Blahnik Hangisi:

While the real deal Manolo Blahnik 'Hangisi' heels (see all the pretty color options and even these gorgeous flat versions) have a price point of $965, there are plenty of styles to get the look for less. Sarah Jessica Parker, who has her own line of footwear and accessories, is offering a similar style in her collection which comes in black or blue satin and sells for $545. On a tighter budget? Below are six of my top picks under $150. 


1. Sole Society suede pumps, $79.95 (also in black or taupe)
2. Elegantpark evening pumps, $42.95 and up (many colors available)
3. Littleboutique pumps, $46.59 
4. Manolo Blahnik 'Hangisi' pumps in 7 colors, $965 (many more colors available at Saks or Bergdorf Goodman, blue available at Neiman Marcus, and Barneys has three neutrals)
5. Dune London pumps, $124.95 
6. EKS Kricoa pumps, $59.99 
7. Jessica Buurman pumps, $129 

March 18, 2019 update - Shop the look for under $50:

Wear your shoes with:

December 2, 2018 update - Shop the look under $50:

Style them with:

November 2, 2018 update - Get the look for under $50:

Wear them with:

Shop jeweled pumps:

Courtney Love x Nasty Gal

We are only twelve days into the new year and there's already a fashion collaboration on the near horizon. This time grunge icon Courtney Love is teaming up with Nasty Gal on an 18-piece collection of peasant tops, babydoll dresses, and lace underpinnings called "Love, Courtney by Nasty Gal." Fan of the '90s? Maybe you missed out on the grunge movement because you weren't born yet? Well set your calendars! The line will be released in Nasty Gal's two Los Angeles stores and online on January 14. Prices will range from $48 to $188, with a color palette dominated by black, naturally. All that's missing is the smudged eye makeup, barrettes, and badass attitude to match.

Below are my top seven picks from the collection (especially those suede rhinestone Mary Janes)!



Top row: lace crop top, $78 and lace bustier, $88
MIddle row: sheer kimono, $188, babydoll dress, $118, and satin maxi slip dress, $168
Bottom row: suede Mary Janes, $110, and mesh stiletto pumps, $90

Catch up with me on Snapchat, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook @thekeytochic for more shopping news and fashion inspiration.

Balmain for H&M Review

After watching the runway show, studying the lookbook, and stalking the endless social media posts, I was fortunate enough to be able to shop the Balmain for H&M collection in Los Angeles. Does it live up to all the #HMBalmaination hype? Did it look as good in person? How does the sizing run? I've got all the details in this fitting room review. After trying on a few pieces and seeing the merchandise up close, I'll be sharing my thoughts on fit and quality. Perhaps you read my tips for how to shop Balmain for H&M? If so, I hope they helped! 

December 2, 2018 update - Shop Balmain for H&M:

Nov 6, 2015 update - If you tried to shop and couldn't get your favorites, I'm sharing my stylish Balmain for H&M alternatives on my other blog The Key To Chic.

Here's a quick look at my top picks from the collection. I had my eye on some of the men's pieces, including the hoodie, green logo tee and the beanie.

The glitzy looks in the window display were nowhere to be found on the racks. It looks even better in person than from the photos and video. The beading and embellished details are rich, heavy, and possibly the best from any H&M collaboration to date.

Appetizers and drinks went relatively untouched, as most attendees were too busy shopping.

Another look at the window display and the moto jacket with patches.



Least Popular Items



The logo tees weren't very popular despite their $34.99 price points, and many remained on the racks. Interesting to note that they were customized to the local city. 



Earrings ($34.99) make great gift ideas, but were not very popular with shoppers.



The striped blouse (69.99) was the least popular. It was the only item remaining in all sizes, while the rest of the racks were almost completely cleared within two minutes.





Most Popular Pieces



The green sequin dress ($199) is a size 4, and when I inspected it, it appeared to run small. It's well tailored and great quality. 



A fellow shopper of average height models the men's double-breasted blazer. 



The sunglasses ($49.99) are oversized and when I tried them on, they slipped down my nose slightly. 



The men's suede ankle boots ($129) looked nice in person and were almost sold out within minutes. I wish they had these for women!

These strappy heels ($199) were nowhere to be found. 



Fun fact: I spotted Cindy Crawford's daughter wearing this beaded dress ($649) while browsing the collection (with her mom). 



Fitting room

Here's what I was able to try on in the fitting room after watching the merchandise disappear in a flash. The competition was fierce and I wasn't able to snag my favorites in the frenzy. For reference, I'm a petite 101 lbs. and wear a size 4 at H&M.



I tried on a men's medium in the green logo tee. It runs big, is soft, and has a flocked logo design. I would've brought home a size small if I could have found it.



The pullover hoodie is a men's small. It has a long hemline which I tucked in. There are quilted panels on the shoulders and metal tips on the drawstring. It's well made, true to size, and comfortable. It's a top pick for me.



The red faux fur coat ($129) had snaps (that look like buttons) and two side pockets. It's cropped, fluffy, and very soft. I'm wearing a 4 and it fit well. It's well worth the price tag and reminds me of the Lanvin for H&M coat I bought a few years ago. 



Unfortunately, I couldn't get my hands on the beaded dresses, trousers, or coats. I predict these will be the top sellers. The men's pieces ran small from what I heard in the fitting rooms. If in doubt, it's better to size up! 

The online launch takes place at 8am EST (bright and early at 5am PST for my West Coasters). Bookmark this page to shop the collection and review my shopping tips for more info on the return policy, quantity limits, and more. Browse my Balmain for H&M alternatives for all budgets (or check eBay) if you weren't able to buy your top picks. Or shop main line Balmain on sale! Good luck! 

This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated if purchases are made by clicking links.

Catch up with me on Snapchat, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook @thekeytochic for more shopping reviews, fashion inspiration, and outfit ideas. 

May 30, 2017 update - Shop Balmain:

Shop Balmain pieces that inspired the H&M collection: