tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83197554390242291382011-12-29T11:09:56.404-08:00Let this blog be your personal image consultant! Read the tips on classic and feminine trends as well as the new & hot styles!Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comBlogger381100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-11914892968852645962011-09-10T13:01:00.000-07:002011-09-10T13:15:56.445-07:00

The 70s trend brings back fur vests, fur collars, bright colors, silk blouses, high wasted pants, earth tones, and snake leather prints, the 90's trend adds heavy knit loose sweaters, combat boots, black tights, ripped "boyfriend" jeans, and miss-matched colors and prints. The geek-chic black framed glasses are still lurking around, but are now being replaced with bigger frames.There is much to

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-47197167661500996142011-09-10T12:19:00.000-07:002011-09-10T13:01:34.594-07:00

For those of us living in San Francisco, this summer has been barely noticeable. None the less, in the hopes of an Indian Summer being just around the corner, we are hanging on to our summer clothes. This is a good time to look over your closet and figure out what can be worked into the Fall wardrobe. This weekend, I sat down and created a design audit out of all the magazines I had lying around.

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-2689830132404877502011-06-24T10:42:00.000-07:002011-06-24T10:58:31.599-07:00

Being a creative director for a fashion brand is a dream come true for any designer. My current heroes are the creative directors of brand identity for katespade.com and bloomingdales.com. These sites are so beautiful, it's a joy to browse the site for the sites sake. Kate Spade creative team designs amazing e-marketing material, as well as amazing website content.

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-65920567102613190922011-06-07T12:56:00.000-07:002011-06-07T12:59:35.851-07:00

Summer is taking it's sweet time to arrive this year. Nonetheless, with every five minutes of sun we get here and there, I suddenly feel the need to re-stock my closet. The good news is I love where trends are right now. I love the 70's bohemian vibe, the bright colors, the skinny jeans, and of-course don't forget the shoes!If you are on a budget, there are lots of floral patterns, neon work-out

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-55296869627466921242011-02-16T11:42:00.000-08:002011-02-16T11:42:00.895-08:00

If you are looking for a stylish sexy outfit for a first date, and you are trying to save money, check out these great finds!The Draped Flutter Dress from Forever21 is $24.80, and would look great with the Infinity Cardigan at j.crew for only $39.99 (on sale from $89.50). Pair this up with the Havanna boots at bakershoes.com for $59.99. Also, add a sexy piece of jewelry such as the Coral Reef

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-57457113184777444182011-02-15T11:25:00.001-08:002011-02-15T11:31:43.948-08:00

Blue hearts from Etsy seller "Wood Hearts Decorative Country Shabby Chic Cottage Decor" $24If you are feeling a little overwhelmed by all the red the day after Valentine's, sooth your blues with some turquoise and periwinkle! Check out these Etsy designer goodies.Turquoise necklace from LuckilyDesign $21Robin Egg Blue and Copper Ring by missypumpkin $5Vintage Navy Blue Dress by AffordableVintage

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-44060521899598594922011-02-15T10:14:00.000-08:002011-02-15T10:28:52.969-08:00

Whenever I find myself uninspired by my closet and thinking I have nothing to wear, I turn to some of the best sites for outfit inspiration straight from the streets of New York. Photographer and style reporter Tommy Ton, photographs the most stylish ladies going about their business amid the NYC busyness. Check out some of their amazing outfit choices at http://www.style.com/trendsshopping/

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-32982590614473190342011-02-11T16:51:00.001-08:002011-02-15T14:33:41.282-08:00

This recent article on Yahoo just goes to show that you don't have to spend a lot of money to look great! Just look at our first lady Michelle Obama in this feminine stylish polka dot dress for H&M for $34.95.photo by Peter Kramer/APphoto from H&M

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-4884706182691991992011-02-04T12:19:00.000-08:002011-02-04T12:29:34.007-08:00

If there should be a whole post dedicated to a shoe, THIS is the shoe.For all of us shoe-aholics, this is the reason why we LOVE shoes. This is a MUST MUST MUST have style from Kate Spade. The "Darla" red suede round-toe heels are $298 on katespade.com

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-28507155188881932442011-02-04T07:00:00.000-08:002011-02-04T12:19:36.033-08:00

Alas, I have rediscovered my inspiration!Today's topic is the wonderfully red Valentine's Day. This day has always had a special place in my heart for many reasons. First, I love hearts. Second, everyone looks good in red. And third, growing up we always had a Valentine's Day Dinner Party at school, and every year we had to wear red and black. All the junior high and high school kids send each

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-25389057722296119222009-09-28T08:00:00.000-07:002011-02-04T12:44:06.056-08:00

On a personal note - music I design to:"Stuck on Repeat" Little Boots"Panic Switch" Silversun Pickups"I Disappear" Faint"L.E.S. Artistes" santigold"Lights Out" santigold"Bye Bye Bye" the everly brothers"Players Club" eazy-e & too short"Ride Wit U" Joe feat G-Unit,"Beggin'" madcon"Forthenight" musiq child"I Wanna be Adored" the stone roses"The Reeling" Passion Pit"Changing" Saosin"Shake It Out"

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-17465050627313064112009-09-25T14:44:00.000-07:002009-09-25T14:55:14.301-07:00

The fur vest is a key item this Fall.For budget fur vests go to:http://www.curlyfurimports.com $145 http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18341795 $145http://www.bebe.com - "Ostrich Feather Vest" $55

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-7541051186272838202009-09-24T07:00:00.000-07:002009-09-24T07:00:01.444-07:00

Two different centuries, two different designers, but Jeremy Scott's whimsical and art-inspired designs are very reminiscent of Elsa Schiaparelli.Elsa Schiaparelli designed in the 1940's 50's and 60's. She was heavily influenced by Surrealists such as Salvador Dalí and Alberto Giacometti. Jeremy Scott is known for his iconic Pop cultural references and humorous prints. In his line for Adidas,

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-10093480338838593282009-09-23T07:00:00.000-07:002009-09-23T12:09:59.353-07:00

My friend once explained why she liked pugs so much, "they are so ugly - they're cute!" Is that how people feel about the 80's right now? The big haired, magenta-colored, leggings and shoulder-pad wearing era has been considered one of the least flattering time-periods in fashion. Just a while back, calling something "so 80's" was a bad thing. Now, we ask if it's 80's enough. But, it's not only

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-8148428191663504522009-09-22T17:00:00.000-07:002009-09-23T12:33:05.240-07:00

When Michael Kors designed for Celine it was pure magic; the fabrics, the textures, the colors, the elegance, the timelessness! I'm thrilled to see that while other designers are throwing themselves into the "ugly" trends, Michael Kors has created a truly magnificent line for this Fall 09 season. It is everything I've always loved about my favorite designer! Hooray for Michael Kors!all photos

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-44995568606199451002009-09-20T23:38:00.001-07:002009-09-21T00:56:22.778-07:00

One thing for certain, there was a whole lot of red on the red carpet at this year's Emmys. Also, at the top of the list were metallics, dusty pinks, pale browns, purples, and burgundy. I thought mostly everyone looked fantastic – some better than others, but none the less - stunning!I was “unexpectedly” pleased with my top choices, but my "usual" favorites have not delivered this time around.So,

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-84324578431236636822009-09-17T13:22:00.000-07:002009-09-21T00:58:04.350-07:00

Happy September!It's been another while since my last post. Fashion has been a bit of a snooze lately, and I haven't been inspired to write. With any luck, the Fall season will stir up my long-lost passion for fab budget-finds, and I'll sprint to my favorite stores and search search search!For now, here's what sparked my inter-rest - a Miu Miu scarf surprisingly resembling an apron.. Not the

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-25629637290001055512009-05-13T13:28:00.000-07:002009-05-13T14:13:18.548-07:00

Hello my dear readers,This Spring has been crazy - as always trying to survive the economy and do it with grace! I've been busy with work, projects, and auditions.. Yes, auditions. I will tell you all about it some day in the future. Nonetheless, I have been gone way too long, and it is most definitely time to get back to basics.Summer is almost here, and for some of us lucky Californians - it

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-57908230851669929452009-03-24T07:00:00.000-07:002009-03-24T16:40:54.742-07:00

This years Vintage Fashion Expo was - as always - fabulous. 1920's hats, 1870's lace, gloves, 9170's dresses, and of course 1940's jewels. Booths were set up in rows at the SF Concourse in this past weekend. Some dealers came from across the county. And aren't we all grateful! The visitors of the concourse expressed their love for vintage fashion by wearing some electrifying 50's outfits

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-33416615448514840312009-03-11T16:09:00.000-07:002009-03-11T16:57:52.835-07:00

There's something I haven't written about yet. It's a little odd, conceding that my whole fashion life and, in this case, debt, is the product of this... umm... product. I'm talking about shoes of course. I've decided that it was no longer responsible of me to dash out hundreds of dollars on pairs of Betsey Johnson's and Charles David's every other week, when I already have a lot more shoes than

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-26217798677907827272009-03-04T09:54:00.000-08:002009-03-04T10:03:43.207-08:00

If you haven't heard, brace yourselves. Budget Fashionista's haven is going under! The talk of Loehmann's not being able to withstand this economic and financial storm has been going around. This is a sad sad news for all of us who enjoy 70% off designer jeans, $6 pima cotton tees, and $3 Betsy Johnson lingerie. But, before it's all over for us ladies, Loehmann's is having incredible sales. Go

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-80697616703690908162009-02-26T11:06:00.001-08:002009-02-26T11:22:48.242-08:00

As you may have noticed, there are lots of sales happening in stores all over the country. To get the good deals, it also helps to look at the online stores. Check out these cute little finds from j.crew.com!Striped ballet slippers with pom-poms $19.99 - (original $55) (comes on more colors)Striped rubber boots $29.99 - (original $49.50) (comes on more colors)Photos from www.jcrew.com

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-65670805664509803032009-02-22T20:14:00.000-08:002009-02-22T20:29:14.310-08:00

Best Dressed (Well Done!)Worst Dressed Oscar (better luck next time)

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-63638882188350813652009-02-19T07:00:00.000-08:002009-02-19T12:20:28.546-08:00

These days money is tight... And, the only way to press the refresh button on your wardrobe is to dig (as gracefully as possible) through rows and piles and racks of Forever21 and H&M.. Unfortunately, the laws of the Fashion Cycle state that the moment you see a trend at a mass merchant, you know it's on it's way out. And no self-respecting fashionista would wear the so-last-season color and

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-3664901473701593962009-02-10T07:00:00.000-08:002009-02-10T14:40:47.107-08:00

In lieu of Valentine's Day, let us indulge. I'm not talking about chocolate, but some good'ol ready-to-wear Spring/Summer 2009 runway gushing. Here are some of my favorite looks and color trends from some of my favorite designers.Mathew Williamson Versace Sonia RykeilNanette LeporeBluemarineSpring is sticking to the saturated colors and prints from the Fall season. The blues are absolutely

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-52306592265552231702009-02-04T07:00:00.000-08:002009-02-04T15:11:41.434-08:00

Since I was a child, my favorite color has been, what I call, "highlighter-green". And, more than anything else in the world, I wanted to have a highlighter-green ball gown! I've even asked Russian Santa for it on several occasions... But, it was understandable, that he probably raised an eyebrow in confusion, while reading my letters - "highlighter-green gown?!?!?"One day, as my mom and I

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-36708109422383341022009-02-02T07:00:00.002-08:002009-02-02T12:22:47.414-08:00

It's absolutely freezing today! Ok... Fine, it's absolutely freezing by California standards, but having lived here for over seven years, I have become extra sensitive to the slightest drop in temperature... When the days are cold like this, and you don't want to be outside shopping, you can always grab a hot cup of jasmine green tea and cuddle up next to your laptop to look for all sorts of sale

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-58594845679418543172009-02-02T07:00:00.000-08:002009-02-02T09:23:42.190-08:00

I love the "Raze Red"!It is one of Lancôme's new brilliant Ultimate Lasting Full Color Lipshine - LA LAQUE FEVER. It's a High Potency color lip-gloss that keeps your lacquered lips vibrant for six hours! I've worn this lip-gloss everyday since I got it, and it's amazing how the color stays throughout the day - even after lunch! This lip color has such a vigorous presence that it's a perfect

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-56387235167033932052009-01-27T08:00:00.000-08:002009-01-27T16:13:14.952-08:00

If you are like me, and LOVE buying beauty products, then you know how expensive the Shiseido night cream and Chanel eye-shadow are... And while all your money goes to buy Donna Karen perfume, Christian Dior face powder, Bliss body scrub, and Thymes hand lotion, the small beauty essentials such as false eyelashes and brushes seem to really break your budget. Why can't you just have all the

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-23305995235088570132009-01-27T07:00:00.000-08:002009-01-27T12:32:35.606-08:00

I needed to replace my zebra. My zebra area rug to be precise.It was looking a bit out of shape, and something new and bright was definitely needed to revive the living room. So, as i looked around for a new zebra, i discovered lots of exciting new stores and brands.First of all, Home Decorators. Home Decorators has a website and are also located in some Home Depot stores. The closest in the Bay

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-85128016304279434632009-01-23T20:00:00.000-08:002009-01-23T12:40:07.879-08:00

Topic of todays obsession is the Ralph Lauren "Ricky" bag. Just like it's predecessor the "Kelly" and the "Birkin", "Ricky" is a symbol of elegance, timelessness, and luxury. The Alligator Ricky bag is inspired by a vintage Cooper saddle carrier, and is crafted from exquisite American alligator and finished with custom Italian hardware. While wearing alligator skin may seem a bit barbaric, as an

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-78666157774232077862009-01-19T20:00:00.000-08:002009-01-23T12:43:25.100-08:00

Hi ladies, this is going to be a quick note on some amazing jewelry with some amazing prices. I know that Banana Republic can be a little "office clothes". And most of the time, the only great cashmere wool blend "cardis" are a little out of the Budget Fashionista's price range... But, the one thing that I love about Banana Republic is the jewelry. BR's jewelry designers are always up to

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-41526663159712236832008-12-29T20:00:00.000-08:002009-01-23T12:38:20.202-08:00

I've always loved history. Growing up, I was fascinated by abandoned buildings, paintings, and photographs of people who were long gone. I wanted to know how they lived, why they died, and everything in between. I also loved old books and sketches. My favorite was an ancient Russian cook book that my mom got from some older lady as a gift. Mesmerized by the cakes with green and pink piped

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-19918260307994954802008-12-11T20:00:00.000-08:002009-01-23T12:41:20.013-08:00

... the city of San Francisco that is. It's called Torso Vintages, and it's breathtaking. The first time I went inside this magical place, there were tears in my eyes! My friend and I were heading down Sutter St towards Loehmann's. (Loehmann's has great casual and formal designer wear for at least 70% off the original price. ) Anyway, as we walked down, I saw a "vintage" sign, and couldn't

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-75775698312862325012008-12-08T11:31:00.000-08:002008-12-08T12:03:21.312-08:00

Christmas is almost here! This year, budget gift shopping is as important as ever. Paying off your credit cards from last year, while trying to save money during these dark economic hours, is hard enough. But what about buying Christmas gifts? There is always the option of "making" your gifts. And, I don't mean cutting cards out of paper... You can always bake a yummy berry pie, or

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-74731920272214097932008-11-24T11:39:00.001-08:002008-12-08T12:06:27.693-08:00

Hello my fellow budget fabulous-ettes!Thanksgiving is around the corner, and before you know it, it will be 2009!The future is officially here...And the future brings with it a few serious matters that we are finally coming to realize. Matters such as global warming and the importance of "going green"...I have recently noticed the amount of "packaging" in my life. How much extra do all the

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-10898977510855398792008-10-09T20:00:00.000-07:002009-01-23T12:42:26.574-08:00

This week, "Gossip Girl" inspired outfits are everywhere.It's all about the coats, the plaid, the hair bands, and the tights!Item of the week:SHORT PLAID COATWhere to find it: TARGETHow much: $49.99Save some money and enjoy the fall styles!XOXO

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8319755439024229138.post-27606963419998833962008-10-01T09:23:00.000-07:002008-12-08T12:08:21.442-08:00

Fashion Tips of the Week... It's all about the Fall staples.. and vintage is the safest way to go to save your money and still look fabulous! Welcome to Haight St.CASHMEREAs the time comes to stock up on those cashmere sweaters, you might worry about the prices of such luxurious fabrics. A cashmere sweater can cost you anywhere from $75 to $400 dollars. Even stores like ROSS, GAP, and OLD NAVY

Elena Kotchetovanoreply@blogger.com