Modcloth - The Astor Trench ($99.99)

There are so many nice things about this trench coat that I hardly know where to begin. Let's start at the top and move our way to the bottom. I do love a white coat but they're hardly practical, with all the oh sitting and stuff I need to do, but this coat combines the beauty of white with the practicality of a darker color where the coat may get dirty. So smart! The thoughtful details aren't overwhelming and it has a really nice silhouette that would look good on anyone large to small (which is convenient since it's still available in those sizes!).

Michael Antonio Kenna Shoes ($44.97)

I'm looking for some bright heels to wear with a simple black dress to a company holiday party, and these blue beauties from Shiekh shoes just might do it. Black and blue don't usually go, but this blue is bright enough that I think they'd be a nice surprise for the eye if they happen to look down that low. I especially like the extra strap - they would be sort of hoochie without it. Another plus is that with the 4.5" heel, I'll be a whopping 5'7"!

Sephora The Lash Stash ($35)

Are you always on the hunt for the perfect mascara? I know I am. The worst part of the hunt is when you open a new brand of mascara with optimism and it disappoints, even on the first application. Then you have to keep using it for the next few months so it doesn't go to waste. I also find that mascara starts to dry out after a couple weeks, which means clumping, so I end up throwing them out and starting over again after about 2 months. So check out what Sephora just came up with that solves both of my mascara issues - The Lash Stash is a limited-edition kit of 10 of Sephora's most popular mascaras, all in mini size. At $35, this averages out to $3.50 per tube. Even though the tubes are small, I figure I'll get at least a couple months of use out of each, which is the same as I get out of a regular tube. Maybe I'll even find one in this stash that doesn't dry out so quickly!

Fraise Oiseau Necklace ($22)

Here's another one from etsy.com, my go-to site for things that are unique and inexpensive, and often handmade. Also, these days, I really like the idea of helping out an artist who might be trying to make a living through their art. This Fraise Oiseau Necklace (quick French lesson: "fraise" means strawberry and "oiseau" means swallow, like the bird) is made with vintage beads and brass. The seller will make the necklace any length for you, which is a nice touch.

Target Go International Crisscross Dress ($9.99)

Target is having a huge clearance on summer clothing. There are shirts for under $5, dresses for under $10 and jackets around the same. Lots of cute options, but this Go International Crisscross Dress stands out to me because, well, it doesn't look like you bought it from Target!

About Attitude Cassady Faux Leather Bag ($55)

Do you need a new bag for fall? Or maybe just want one? Here's one that won't set you back too many dollars - it's the Cassady faux leather bag from About Attitude. Gold is a neutral and goes with everything, and it has lots of extra pockets.

Forever 21 Antique Cat Necklace ($2.99)

Ok so you probably know by now that I love cats. I have 3 of them. But, I draw a very distinct line before "crazy cat lady" by not surrounding myself with any cat paraphernalia. You know what I'm talking about...the cat shower curtains, cat pot holders, and cat sweaters, etc. Still, I find this Antique Cat Necklace from Forever 21 irresistible, I think because even a person not obsessed with cats might wear it. Whereas if you aren't obsessed with cats, you don't have them all over your shower curtain. Get the distinction? Because it's very important to me that you don't think I'm a crazy cat lady, just because I want to wear one around my neck all day. Right??

Hush Puppies Adeline ($110)

Is it officially fall yet? I fancy myself a summer girl, but when the evenings start to have that bite and the sun sets a little earlier, I have to admit I get a little thrill. Maybe it's because I am a major home body and cooler weather makes me want to cozy up at home, but it could also be because I looooove boots and they just don't make sense in a SoCal summer. This season, I'm all about booties, so if they're not your thing, I'll pre-apologize for the sure to be many posts about them in the future (and today). These Adeline booties by Hush Puppies certainly aren't the cheapest booties out there, but have you ever bought a cheap pair of boots and ended up with sore toes and arches and heels and who knows what kind of blisters? They're just not worth the money in the end because it's all about the CPW, cost per wear. And if you wear your $50 boots only once, then well, they weren't such a great deal after all. Anyway these are sure to be comfortable so the CPW should be miniscule, making it a steal!

Forever 21 Pleated Chiffon Dress ($27.80)

Inexpensive, classic, lady-like dresses can be hard to find, which is why I was especially excited to come across this Pleated Chiffon Dress at Forever 21. I like the high neck and wide waistband in lace, but it's the pleated chiffon that makes this a classic. You could wear this at any age.

Jeffrey Campbell Cutout Wedge ($50)

It's not often that a super trend catches my eye but ooh wouldn't these Jeffrey Campbell Cutout Wedges look cute with a short dress. I'd even wear them to a club, just to look different. They're from Urban Outfitters and they're on sale.

Topshop Leather Clutch ($30)

If you've been to London and you are a shopper, you've been to Topshop. Lucky for us in the U.S., Topshop has opened an online store just for us so we don't have to pay overseas shipping. I was tempted many times before but always had a reality check before hitting "Make Purchase." I think this Leather Clutch will be my first stateside Topshop purchase. I love the pale camel color and it simplicity.

Anthropologie Postcard Bangle ($48)

I always like to have reminders of travel with me for mini-escapes during a hectic day. How about, instead of looking down at a watch on your wrist, you get a little glimpse of another world on this Postcard Bangle? I know this isn't the cheapest bracelet on earth, it's certainly cheaper than a plane ticket to Europe! I think I'm craving a vacation - can you tell?

Smith's Rosebud Salve ($6)

Smith's Rosebud Salve has been softening lips and cuticles since 1895 and has probably been blogged about since the world first started blogging, but I just got my first tin a few days ago and I just have to tell you about it. It's the smoothest, non-stickiest, nicest smelling lip balm I've ever tried. What makes it special is that it goes on so smooth and looks glossy - you could definitely use this as a gloss or on top of any lipstick to make it glossy, and it never ever feels sticky. It has a lovely, natural scent that isn't just inoffensive, but there's something interesting about it and I can't stop sniffing it. Though I haven't tried it for anything but chapped lips, but it's supposed to work on burns and stings and even hair flyaways. Everyone must have their own tin of this amazing stuff!

Ruche Captured in Romance Birdcage Necklace ($10)

Miniatures always take me back to my days of obsession with dollhouses. I don't know what it is about things in miniature, but I love them. Combine that with my latest love for animal accessories and I don't think I can imagine another day without this Captured in Romance Birdcage Necklace. It makes me happy just looking at it.

Ruche Floral Blue Sheer Shirt Dress ($23)

Doesn't this dress make you want to run through a field picking flowers and putting them in a basket and maybe one behind your ear? It's carefree and simple, looks like it could have been worn decades ago.

Martha Stewart Best Wishes Garland ($1)

Though you'll have to assemble this yourself, this Best Wishes Garland by Martha Stewart is a great bang for your buck - literally a buck! Doesn't it look so much nicer than those bright foil colored Happy Birthday garlands? I know you know which ones I'm talking about and I bet you celebrated at least one birthday with one of them.

Victoria's Secret Puff-Sleeve Cardigan Sweater ($59)

Ok, at its current price it's not a total steal but I'm still tempted to buy this Puff-Sleeve Cardigan from Victoria's Secret because of the perfectly puffed sleeves, the variety of knit patterns and neutral color. I know I'd wear it all through the fall and winter. But keep an eye on it because Victoria's Secret tends to lower its sale prices over time. It also comes in pink, off white and black.

Fred Flare Paper Nesting Doll Kit ($5)

cThese Paper Nesting Dolls would be a fun project for crafters or kids. The kit includes 5 dolls ranging from 2.5" to 5". Don't we all need a little more Russian culture in our lives?

Forever 21 Honey Bee Lacquer Bangle ($7)

Bzzzz! Bee decorations are so classic, as is the combination of cream and gold. Even though it's classic in many ways, this Honey Bee Lacquer Bangle is quirky and I must have it!

Brief hiatus

Home remodeling going on, postings this week will be light at best - please forgive! Hope you all had a great Labor Day weekend. Mine was all about spray paint, travertine and wood stain.

Hard Candy Eye Shadow Quartet ($5.50)

I know, Hard Candy is kind of a decade ago and all, but I'll go retro for a 75% off sale any time. They have lots of lip products and their eye liner looks like a steal, but I'm most drawn to the Eye Candy Eye Palette, which is a collection of their most popular shades. All of them look wearable, except maybe that turquoise one, but the rest of them are really pretty shades that would work on nearly everyone.

Natural Wood Fan Filigree Handmade Earrings ($10)

I'm a big fan of etsy.com, and I'm sure this won't be the last post on a product from etsy since it's such a great place to find a bargain. I also love the idea of helping out an artist rather than a big corporation. I've bought several pieces of jewelry on etsy and always seem to get compliments on them. It's fun to wear something that's one of a kind and made by hand with love. These Natural Wood Fan Filigree Handmade Earrings are cute and I've never seen anything quite like them before.

Pearl River Melamine Lunch Box ($31.50)

Don't you miss picking out a new lunch box for a new school year? I can remember my Strawberry Shortcake one from elementary school, though I'm trying to remember now what exactly I ate for lunch every day that didn't require refrigeration. Hmm. Anyway you can be the coolest kid at work with this Melamine 3 Layer Tiffin Lunch Box from Pearl River. It comes in several trios of colors (I'd definitely go with the Orange/Red/Mango) and I love the idea of keeping my pasta separate from my salad, and still have a compartment left for dessert.

La Redoute Blossom Applique Sweater ($8)

La Redoute is a French company with a U.S. distributor so you can get European style without Euro prices. When they have a sale, boy do they have a sale! I can't believe you can get a stylish Blossom Applique Sweater with so many details for $8, can you? Shipping is free with purchases over $25, and browsing their clearance section, it shouldn't be too difficult to find one or two more items to bump you up to free shipping. Act fast, though, they're selling out of clearance items quickly.

Hollister Harbor Beach Superflare Jeans ($30)

These Harbor Beach Superflare jeans by Hollister look like they'd make great weekend jeans. I like the vintage wash and the little coin pocket with the button. Plus, they just look like they'd fit right. The back flap pockets are always helpful for those looking for more curves in that region. Yes, I might be one of them.

West Elm Petal Rug (from $70)

Made from wool and cotton, this Petal Rug from West Elm would look great on wood or stone floors. I especially like it as a hallway runner ($80). All sizes available right now but only in espresso/ivory.

Forever 21 Slub Texture Open Front Cardigan ($20)

I'm always looking for layering pieces, especially when it's hot out and I'm spending the day in an over-air conditioned office. I've been seeing this open front style cardigan around a lot lately, and at this price, I think it's time to get one. The Slub Texture Open Front Cardigan at Forever 21 comes in 3 neutral colors, and I love the semi-sheerness to the material.

Nivea Lip Care A Kiss Of Flavor ($2.50)

Not only do I like to save money, but I also like to save time, and products that do double duty help with both. Nivea has a new tinted lip moisturizer called A Kiss Of Flavor. I like Passion Fruit Tinted Lip Care for its pinky violet color. Nivea is known for quality products, and it appears that these lip products are their version of Labello products like this one that are imported and much pricier. Go Nivea!

Poppies Decal by Elephannie ($16)

If you live in a rental and don't have the freedom to paint the walls, these wall decals by etsy's Elephannie are an inexpensive option to livening up a boring wall. I'd use this Poppies Decal above my bed as a faux headboard. It's a vinyl sticker that's easy to apply (and remove) and comes in over 20 colors. If this appears sold out, just browse her collection to find a newer posting.

American Eagle Culprit Stripe Ballet ($22)

I'm always on the lookout for cute flats that I can wear to the office. My office isn't typical, in that flip flops are acceptable, as long as they're "nice", as in, not rubber. On casual Fridays, pretty much anything goes. However, some outfits call for a real shoe, and when they do, I opt for the comfort of flats over heels most days. The American Eagle Culprit Stripe Ballet flat is practically perfect with its neutral toned stripes and buttons. Right now Payless has its Buy One Get One (BOGO) half off sale going on, too, so you can pick up a second pair of shoes for around $11.

e.l.f. Candy Shop Lip Tins ($1)

Do these take you back to Jr. High or what? These e.l.f. Candy Shop Lip Tins are on sale for $1 and come in 7 flavors including Cherry, Mocha and Frosting, mmm. I haven't tried this coupon myself, but supposedly you can get 25% off a $15 purchase, which means you could get 15 of these lip tins for $10.50 plus tax and shipping (coupon). This is exactly the kind of thing I stock up on, then add to the outside of a wrapped gift as a little accessory. Oh and by the way, most of e.l.f.'s products are just $1 so go nuts!

Martha Stewart Faux Bois Towels ($7 - $15)

The faux bois (French for "fake wood", sounds so much nicer in French, huh?) trend has been going on for a while and I haven't been tempted to jump in until now, with these pretty Faux Bois Towels from Martha Stewart that are not only good quality, according to reviews, but also up to 40% off. The colors are delicate and I the only reason I haven't bought any yet are that I can't decide which color I like best.

Botkier for Target Satchel ($40)

I feel a new handbag purchase coming on. I want something a little structured that will sit on my shoulder and this Botkier for Target Satchel in Gray Python looks perfect. Plus, it got good reviews, unlike some of the other bags in this collection. As you may know, Botkier bags usually cost $600+ so this line for Target is a great way to get high style without the high price tag.

Pottery Barn Ikat Organic Duvet Cover ($40)

If you've ever shopped around for a duvet cover, you know how expensive they can be. That's why this Ikat Organic Duvet Cover from Pottery Barn is such a pleasant surprise. The pretty, summery print combined with low prices ($40 for full/queen and $60 for king) make it a keeper!

Aeropostale 3/4 Sleeve Bar Stripe Cardigan ($22)

It's hard to imagine while living in sunny San Diego, but fall is just around the corner, isn't it? The only thing I like about cooler (not cold) weather is that there are so many cute sweaters out there that need to be worn sometime. This 3/4 Sleeve Bar Stripe Cardigan reminds me a little of Hermione but that's not such a bad thing, in my book.

Ruche Turquoise Paisley Earrings ($7)

It's 7:30 a.m., you're still half asleep, and you just realized the outfit you picked out is head to toe black. No worries, just grab these Turquoise Paisley Earrings by Ruche and turn your depressing accident into a New York-chic moment.

new city love print ($20)

With gas prices going up and airfares accordingly, it looks like I'll be reminiscing about past travels instead of embarking on new ones this year. But that's ok - perky artwork like this new city love print by accesori hanging from my wall will bring back travel memories and fill my need to escape until I have a few more dollars to spend at Colette.

Alloy Striped Ruffle Yoke Dress ($35)

I'm a sucker for stripes, especially when they involve the color blue. This dress by Faith, Peace, Love is a tad short for work, even in casual San Diego, but it's perfect for a Saturday afternoon at the farmer's market, don't you think? It's on sale and all sizes are still available as of today. I'm getting mine - are you?

L'Oreal Wear Infinite Eye Shadow Quad ($7)

I happen to love all things Milla Jovovich, but this eye shadow quad caught my attention before I even knew it was named after *my* Milla. The pinky neutrals would look great on the eyelids and crease, and the dark blue as eye liner would make your eye pop. It's part of L'oreal's Wear Infinite Star Secret Eye Shadow Quad line and is even labeled with numbers and step-by-step instructions on how to apply. Not bad for $7 and change.

CB2 Crochet Table ($30)

A crocheted table doesn't sound like it would be practical in a houseful of cats, like mine, but this one is made of wire so it's virtually Momo-proof. Its weatherproofing makes it useful outdoors, but I think this Crochet Table from CB2 in Yolk would be the perfect accessory to brighten a guest bedroom. And it's even stackable, in case you want to buy 40 of them.

Old Navy Deep-V Active Top ($15)

Even when lounging around the house or walking your puggle, it's always a good idea to look your best. This Old Navy Deep-V Active Top has so many little details - the different textures, the ribbed trim and cap sleeves. It comes in heather gray and navy and is on sale, so maybe I need one in each color.

Rohini Pillow Sham ($20)

I love an Anthropologie sale, especially on bedding. This Rohini pillow sham is 80% off and if you follow the link and zoom into the photo on their website, you can see the darling little pintuck pleats all around the edges. You could plop a pair of these on your bed and say "My bed is cuter than your bed," and you'd be right.

NYX Cosmetics ($8)

These eyeshadow trios by NYX Cosmetics are so well priced that you could even follow THOSE rules that say to throw out your eyeshadow every year or whatever. I won't even tell you how long I've had some of my Stila shadows. I think of those Dateline episodes where they count the billions of bacteria in different household items every time I use them, but I do clean my makeup brushes often so maybe that helps. I'm loving Copacabana (TS31) and Aloha/Mink Brown/Deep Bronze (TS15).

Gap tie-waist button-front dress ($23)

From Gap's European Collection, the tie-waist button-front dress is available in navy and stucco and is on sale. It's effortless with small details that make is special, like slightly puffed sleeves and banded cuffs. I can imagine playing with toy boats in the Jardin du Luxembourg wearing this dress. Also, you can now order from any Gap, Inc. store (Gap, Old Navy, Banana and PiperLime) and pay only one shipping charge, though PiperLime's shipping is always free so that doesn't really count. Niiice.

Hello, finally

I've thought about starting this style-on-a-budget blog for over a year, but got tangled up in all the details and the "look" and organization of it all. I finally decided to just go for it and let it morph over time, so as not to deprive you any further of stylish deals! As a party favor for joining my shopping party, let me introduce you to these gorgeous Le Petite Sperone sandals from PiperLime (on sale for $40). The gold metallic braided sandal is classic even with its trendy gladiator tidbits. Plus, PiperLime has free shipping AND free returns. Stock is limited so shop quickly!