2012 Top Trend Roundup: Novelty Sweaters

If there's one trend that I really, really loved this year, it was novelty sweaters. Why wear a plain sweater with your jeans and boots when you can wear one with a woodland creature or kicky phrase?

Dog $50 // Hearts $25 // Tiger $51 // Star $25 // Owl $18 // Shut Up $52

2012 Top Trend Roundup: Ornate Details

Rich, ornate details were all the rage in 2012. And while they may look expensive, it's easy to get them on the cheap!

Dress $29 // Shoes $31 // Earrings $21 // Bracelet $13 // Clutch $49 // Scarf $36 // Skirt $44

2012 Top Trend Roundup: Satchels

Satchels were definitely the bag of 2012, and here are some of my affordable favorites.

Black $52 // Grey $19 // Red $29 // Yellow $79 // Tan $35 // Blue $20

2012 Top Trend Roundup: Metallics

Metallics were HUGE in 2012 and will surely be big in 2013 as well. Get the trend for a steal with these frugal picks.

Top $20 // Shoes $89 // Nail Polish $8 // Shorts $60 // Dress $60 // Pants $48 // Clutch $68 // Ring $25

2012 Top Trend Roundup: Capes

Did you embrace the cape trend in 2012? If not, why not try one of these?

Black $53 // Sweater $95 // Tan $37 // Plaid $19 // Houndstooth $59

2012 Top Trend Roundup: Embellished Collars

You could say that 2012 was the year of the embellished collar. You couldn't walk into any fashionable establishment without seeing them everywhere you looked. But it's not too late to get in on the trend with these affordable pieces.

Top $69 // Sequin Collar $12 // Gold Collar $25 // Dress $61 // Sweater $78 // Glitter Necklace $26 // Vest $89

2012 Top Trend Roundup: Peplums

Peplums were one of my favorite trends of 2012, because they're so flattering and forgiving. If you're a peplum fan, it's not too late to try out this trend!

Cardigan $22 // Skirt $60 // Jacket $61 // Dress $39 // Top $49 // Sweater $55

2012 Top Trend Roundup: Loafers

Loafers were definitely the shoe of 2012. You can wear them in any season, with anything in your closet, to any event.

Polka Dot $95 // Burgundy $90 // Cats $58 // Orange Suede $49 // Studded $49 // Leopard $50

2012 Top Trend Roundup: Aztec

Aztec prints were huge this summer, and I was pleased to see that it stuck around for the colder months. Here are some affordable Aztec items to wear for the rest of the winter.

Skirt $88 // Dress 37 // Sweater $79 // Jacket $57 // Top $45 // Shoes $68 // Clutch $43 // Ring $35

2012 Top Trend Roundup: Oxblood

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

For the rest of the year, I'll be rounding up the top trends of 2012. Today, let's check out the top fashion color of the year: oxblood.

Mittens $36 // Nail Polish $8 // Bracelet $22 // Bag $61 // Dress $23 // Skirt $76 // Shoes $79

Enter to Win a $100 Giftcard from Shopbop!

The gift-giving may be over, but I've got another treat for you! I'm teaming up with Shopbop again to give away a $100 gift card to one lucky What the Frock? reader. Spend it on anything you like - a new pair of booties, a cute bag, a cozy sweater, or, if you're going on a warm-weather trip this winter, pick up some Uintah Swimwear for yourself.

Entering is easy - just use the Rafflecopter widget below, which will ask you to visit Shopbop's site and choose your favorite item. And don't forget to check out Shopbop's blog, Facebook page, Twitter account, and Pinterest profile!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Merry Christmas from Dana @ What the Frock!

Holiday Gift Guide: Yours Truly

As usual, I'm wrapping up this year's Holiday Gift Guides on Christmas Eve with my own wishlist. These are some of the items I'm hoping to see under the tree this year, but it really doesn't matter, as long as I get to spend the holidays with my family and friends.

I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday. I'll be taking a break through New Year's, with a handful of pre-scheduled posts and some end of the year polls, and I'll see you in 2013!

xo,

Dana

Homeland Season 1 $28 // Bag $73 // iPhone Case $48 // Urban Decay Naked Palette $50 // Headphone Earmuffs $78 // Ron Swanson Mug $14 // Boots $100 // Jewelry Box $39

Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers

These little gifts, all $50 or less, would be perfect as last-minute stocking stuffers. 

Bacon Spread $10 // Phone Dock $48 // Predictor Pen $8 // Invisible Cards $8 // Socks $9 // Coffee Cup $12 // Flask $35 // Mustache Clips $2

Holiday Gift Guide: The Magpie

If someone on your list loves sparkle, bling, glitter, and shine, she'll find these trinkets to die for.

Earrings $32 // Hair Bow $20 // Necklace $38 // Nail Polish $19 // Belt $98 // Bracelet $30 // Clutch $54 // Rings $7 // Shoes $70

Celebrity Look for Less: Miranda Kerr Style

Miranda's really got the best sidewalk style going on right now, doesn't she? If you like her floppy hat and cozy green sweater, here's a look for less.

Sweater $33 // Jeans $70 // Boots $45 // Bag $60 // Hat $35

Holiday Gift Guide: The Shoe Obsessive

We all know someone who channels Carrie Bradshaw, who has more shoes in their closet than she knows what to do with, and wants more, more, more! But you don't need Carrie's budget to buy her some fabulous gifts for her feet. Just check out these frugal pics.

Bow $66 // Glitter $42 // Cap Toe $69 // Polka Dot $27 // Studded $50 // Teal $80

What to Wear: on New Year's Eve

There are a lot of options for New Year's Eve: a quiet, romantic night at home, a fancy dinner, a house party, an upscale lounge, dancing at a club, a night of bar hopping, etc. For this look, I tried to put together something that would work for any of these choices, something festive but versatile and chic. The trick is luxe materials - sequins, lace and velvet - in casual silhouettes.

Blazer $25 // Top $25 // Pants $35 // Shoes $53 // Clutch $25 // Bracelets $2 // Earrings $28

Celebrity Look for Less: Diane Kruger Style

Perennial What the Frock? favorite Diane Kruger looks amazingly chic in her travel outfit. Get her leather look pants, cozy sweater, and high top sneakers for less.

Jacket $15 // Sweater $45 // Pants $68 // Sneakers $35 // Bag $56 // Sunglasses $6

Celebrity Look for Less: Taylor Swift Style

Once again, Taylor has put together a cute, casual and practical cold weather outfit. Here's a look for less.

Coat $45 // Jeans $20 // Boots $40 // Bag $51 // Scarf $25

Holiday Gift Guide: The Label Lover

If you've got a special lady who loves designer labels, you can still shop for her without breaking the bank. Here are some designer gifts for under $100.

Kate Spade Earrings $58 // See By Chloe Belt $72 // Marc by Marc Jacobs Sunglasses $98 // Karl Lagerfeld Top $80 // Z Spoke by Zac Posen Dress $44 // Michael Kors Ring $65 // Diane Von Furstenberg Wallet $65

Dress for Success Fundraiser

In case you missed it, I'm raising money for Dress for Success! Read all about it below. I'd love it if you'd donate, or at the very least, spread the word. Thanks!


I've got some big news that I'm really excited to share!

A couple of months ago, when I posted my reader survey, I got one suggestion that I didn't address in my follow-up post, but it definitely stuck with me and I planned to address it in the future.

It said (and I hope the reader doesn't mind me quoting her verbatim):

I love what you do for us readers by giving us inspiration and ideas. However, I am one that likes to think of how we can give back to our communities. I'm not exactly sure how it can be done through your blog, but I was thinking about ways to donate clothes,  having links to coalitions that work with immigrants or refugees that need clothing, or other things along those lines. 

Like I said, this really stuck with me. I love the idea of using What the Frock? to give back, and when I heard about the organization Dress for Success, I knew I'd found a wonderful charity to support. Their mission is simple. Read all about them here, but if you don't feel like clicking through, here it is in a nutshell:

The mission of Dress for Success is to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. 

I'd like to raise $2500 to donate to Dress for Success, and I'd love your help! I've created an account on Crowdrise to manage the fundraiser, and you can donate here. Donations can be as little as $10 or as much as you like - any little bit will help. I'll also have the link up on my sidebar for easy access.

Thanks so much in advance, and I can't wait to get started!

By the way, Crowdrise adds an optional 10% to donations to offset their own housekeeping costs. If you'd like to opt out of this, just click here when you go to donate.

What to Wear: Casual Christmas Day

If your family has a casual, low-key Christmas celebration, here's the perfect outfit. Brocade jeans are more special than plain jeans, but just as comfy, and glitter flats add just a bit of holiday sparkle.

Turtleneck $35 // Jeans $91 // Shoes $40 // Bag $28 // Necklace $28

Celebrity Look for Less: Sophia Bush Style

This is a super-cute look, perfect for the holidays. If you like Sophia's outfit as much as I do, here's a look for less.

Coat $65 // Sweater $15 // Pants $88 // Shoes $89

Celebrity Look for Less: Anne Hathaway Style

Like the outfit on her Les Miz co-star, Amanda Seyfried, Anne is wearing a beautiful dress that can easily be recreated on the cheap with separates.

Top $60 // Skirt $60 // Shoes $45 // Clutch $25 // Earrings $6

Holiday Gift Guide: The Pupster

If you spoil your dog like I do, here are some gifts that your pup will love!

Bowls from $32 // Bucket of Toys from $50 // Doghouse from $72 // Dog Bed $36 // Sweater $45 // Treats $10 // Collar $23

What to Wear: Dressy Christmas Day

Here's a look that's festive and holiday-appropriate, but comfy enough to open presents on the floor and eat lots and lots of yummy food.

Dress $52 // Tights $15 // Shoes $70 // Clutch $25 // Bracelets $4 // Earrings $48 

Celebrity Look for Less: Amanda Seyfried

Amanda looks stunning in her designer gown, but you can recreate this look with separates for much, much less!

Top $94 // Skirt $40 // Belt $34 // Shoes $35 // Clutch $78 // Ring $4

Celebrity Look for Less: Zoe Saldana Style

Winter is usually time for dark hues and jewel tones, but Zoe proves that you can still wear brights during the cold months and look fabulous.

Coat $28 // Tee $30 // Pants $35 // Boots $52 // Bag $38 // Bracelet $9 // Sunglasses $24

Holiday Gift Guide: The Pop Culture Junkie

If you know someone special who is always reading Monkey See and A.V. Club, who devours TV shows, movies, books and music like they were food, well, these are the gifts for them.

iPad Stand $39 // Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter $18 // Homeland USB Drive $23 // West Wing Box Set $99 // Record Coasters $18 // Earbuds $40 // Louis C.K. Tickets // Harry Potter Scene It! $25 // USB Mix Tape $15 // The Revolution was Televised by Alan Sepinwall $16

Fundraiser: What the Frock? supports Dress for Success

I've got some big news that I'm really excited to share!

A couple of months ago, when I posted my reader survey, I got one suggestion that I didn't address in my follow-up post, but it definitely stuck with me and I planned to address it in the future.

It said (and I hope the reader doesn't mind me quoting her verbatim):

I love what you do for us readers by giving us inspiration and ideas. However, I am one that likes to think of how we can give back to our communities. I'm not exactly sure how it can be done through your blog, but I was thinking about ways to donate clothes,  having links to coalitions that work with immigrants or refugees that need clothing, or other things along those lines. 

Like I said, this really stuck with me. I love the idea of using What the Frock? to give back, and when I heard about the organization Dress for Success, I knew I'd found a wonderful charity to support. Their mission is simple. Read all about them here, but if you don't feel like clicking through, here it is in a nutshell:

The mission of Dress for Success is to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. 

I'd like to raise $2500 to donate to Dress for Success, and I'd love your help! I've created an account on Crowdrise to manage the fundraiser, and you can donate here. Donations can be as little as $10 or as much as you like - any little bit will help. I'll also have the link up on my sidebar for easy access.

Thanks so much in advance, and I can't wait to get started!

By the way, Crowdrise adds an optional 10% to donations to offset their own housekeeping costs. If you'd like to opt out of this, just click here when you go to donate.

What to Wear: Adding Flair to a Work Wardrobe

If you work in a very conservative office, it's probably best to stick to classics and neutrals, but if your office is casual or creative, why not add some bright color and prints to your work outfits? As long as the silhouettes remain professional, you can still have a lot of fun with your work wardrobe.

Blazer $50 // Top $16 // Skirt $40 // Tights $13 // Shoes $45 // Bag $45 // Necklace $30 // Earrings $9

Celebrity Look for Less: Jessica Alba Style

Jessica looks great in this simple, sophisticated, and bright dress. Here's a similar look for a steal.

Dress $69 // Shoes $70 // Earrings $24 // Nail Polish $14

Celebrity Look for Less: Hilary Duff Style

I love the look of a fuzzy novelty sweater with leather leggings, and Hilary looks adorable in hers. If you agree, here's a cheaper version of her outfit.

Sweater $59 // Tank $5 // Leggings $36 // Boots $87 

(or her actual Rag and Bone boots, for a splurge)

Holiday Gift Guide: The Foodie

If you've got a loved one who loves food - cooking it, eating it, reading about it, talking about it - then these gifts will be perfect for them.

Recipe Box $24 // Italian Olive Oil in Striped Bottle $48 // Cheese of the Month Club from $33 // Le Creuset Mortar and Pestle $40 // Apron $28 // Anthony Bourdain No Reservations DVD Collection $20 // Secrets of the Best Chefs Book $20 // DiBruno Bros. Coffee and Biscotti $25

What to Wear: While Holiday Shopping

For the past few years, I've done 100% of my holiday shopping online so that I don't have to set foot into a store between Black Friday and New Year's. That way, I avoid the lines, crowds, and traffic, not to mention going from the freezing cold into a steaming hot store (why do they keep their heat so high?). But, for those of you who like to brave the madness, here's the perfect shopping outfit, comfy but chic.

Shirt $39 // Cords $25 // Boots $49 // Bag $78 // Scarf $11 // Earrings $9

Celebrity Look for Less: Kristen Stewart Style

Kristen's been wearing some CRAZY stuff lately, but this outfit is great. It's flattering, casual but festive, and stylish without being over the top. If you like K-Stew's look, here's a cheaper version.

Blazer $54 // Tee $10 // Pants $89 // Bracelet $26 // Shoes $48

Holiday Gift Guide: The Baby or Toddler

It's so much fun to shop for these little tykes, even though they'd probably rather play with the boxes, right? Well, it's the thought that counts! These gifts will work for a little boy or a little girl.

Dan Zanes and Friends "Little Nut Tree" CD $15 // Shark Towel $38 // Tambourine $19 // The Very Hungry Caterpillar $6 // Pajamas $11 // Bibs $15 // Stuffed Sheep $28 // Train $17 // Sneakers $27

Holiday Gift Guide: The Mom to Be

If anyone on your shopping list is expecting a little one, she'll definitely appreciate these luxurious, pampering presents.

Prenatal Yoga DVD $26 // Skincare Set $28 // Healthy Pregnancy Food Basket $65 // Slippers $20 // Tunic Sweater $34 // The Girlfriend's Guide to Surviving the First Year of Motherhood $13 // Diaper Bag $90 // Body Pillow $60 // Belly Cast Kit $15

New Year's Party Outfits: from Shermineh of PostGradChic

The final guest post for this week is from the wonderful and stylish Shermineh of PostGradChic, who put together some gorgeous New Year's Eve outfits with this versatile and stylish sequined skirt. 

Note: Shermineh uses Polyvore to put together her outfits, so to get links to the items, click right on the images, which will take you to Polyvore and the links!

Hey everyone! Shermineh from PostGradChic over here to discuss New Year's outfits! I'm really excited to be here, as I am a huge fan of this blog, so I hope you enjoy!

I think New Year's Eve is the perfect time to go glam it up a bit. I've already discussed this over on my blog, but sequins are the perfect thing to do so with. I know that they can be daunting to some, so I thought it would be a great idea to show you guys three ways to wear the same sequined skirt.

Click image for product links

For a more casual, but not too casual, look for New Years, I thought about dressing down the skirt with a denim shirt. I'm a firm believer that a denim shirt is the perfect piece to always bring a wild garment back down to earth. A simple black clutch, and black pointy toe pumps act as neutrals for this outfit, leaving the focus on the skirt. I'd swipe on a strong red lip, with a clean bare face, and head out to the bars with this look.

Click image for product links

For a more glamorous approach when it comes to your outfit, you don't have to do too much. The skirt is glam enough, so just add a few pops of color, and a luxe element. Throw your hair up to let a gorgeous bold earring shine, then reintroduce that pop of color in the jewels at your feet with a slick pump. The tuxedo detailing on the blazer adds a level of sophistication, and to not go overboard with all the glitz, a loose easy going tank will pull the look together.

Click image for product links

If your ideal New Years involves a get together at a good friend's house, or an intimate dinner, try going the cozy route with your look... it is Winter after all! A thick chunky sweater worn casually over the skirt will keep you feeling warm all night. Add some walkable booties, and cute ankle socks for extra warmth, and you got yourself an adorable little number that will have people envious. For a finishing touch, add a statement necklace, and you're good to go!

I hope you all enjoyed this post! And thank you Dana for letting me share with your lovely readers!