Cheap and Last-Minute Halloween Ideas!

Happy Halloween!

So now it's Halloween and you don't have a costume. Suddenly, you realize that you'll kick yourself if you don't get your inner-ghoul on tonight. You need a cheap costume, and fast!

The best place to start is your own closet. Hopefully by now, you've all acquired an LBD (or at least a good black t-shirt and a pair of dark pants). I'm pretty sure that the costume possibilities are endless when it comes to using your Little Black Dress as a starting point. 

Purple Feather Witch Hat, Target, $4.20

Run to your closest Target, Walmart, etc. and grab a pair of cheap cat ears, a witch hat, or something of the like. I personally have a "costume grab-bag" or sorts, consisting of cat ears, bunny ears, Minnie Mouse ears, and a wig among other things. If a costume party randomly springs up (or if Halloween sneaks up on me), I immediately have options! In addition to whatever accessories you find, use eyeliner to draw some cute whiskers, a mole on your nose, or whatever is appropriate! And because you're using basics from your own closet, you can dress as conservatively, as warmly, or, let's just be honest, as slutty as you want.

You could also look in your closet for an old prom dress, a formal dress, or something similar. Buy a super cheap tiara from Party City (they start at 99 cents!), and go as a princess! I would estimate that about 90% of all girls have dreamed of being a princess, so you might as well live out your dream for a night!

Princess Tiara, Party City, $3.99

If you find a cute babydoll-style dress while searching for a princess-y one, you could always pull that out and dress as a doll! Use lots and lots of mascara (or even put on false lashes if you have some), and wear really girly pink lipstick and lots of rosy blush. Throw your hair in pigtails or braids and maybe grab an old teddy bear or something to complete the cutesy look. Of course, if you find a not-so "baby"doll dress, but more of a bombshell dress, you could always style it up and be a Barbie!

Pleated Maxi Skirt, Old Navy, $24.99

With the resurgence of 70s fashion (but has it really ever gone away??), I'm sure you have enough pieces in your closet to put together a cute hippie costume.  Grab a maxi dress or skirt or some wide-leg jeans and pair it with a flowy or cropped top. The big thing here is to OVER accessorize. Put on as many beads and bangles as you can find. Use make up to draw a little flower on your cheek. Wear your hair down and twirl around all night, and you're set!

Here are a few more quick ideas:

-Lady of Mystery: Masquerade mask with a cocktail dress

-Cowgirl: Plaid shirt, jeans, and boots with a cheap cowboy hat

-Teacher: Carry around an apple & a ruler, wear glasses & a nice dress or pencil skirt

-50s greaser: White t-shirt, jeans, black jacket (w/ slicked back hair and red lipstick)

There are plenty of costumes that can be slapped together quickly if you know where to start. I guarantee you, there are several costumes just waiting to be worn in your closet! Dig around, reach to the waaay back corners, and I'm sure you'll find some treasure!

I hope you feel better about your last-minute decision to dress up now! Just remember, Halloween is what you make of it, so go out, be safe, and have a good time!

Under $200: White After Labor Day

I'm not sure who it was that originally said that people shouldn't wear white after Labor Day... Well, today is the day after Labor Day, and I'm telling you to wear ALL white! 

Ladies, it's time to break some rules and be rebels of society (am I right??). If you wear white head to toe with your hair pulled up/back and a raspberry- or cranberry-colored lip to your next outing or party, I guarantee you will turn heads (and cause jaws to drop). Be bold and daring this season! Forget the rules and wear white after Labor Day!

Timex Tonal E-Z Read Watch (Urban Outfitters, $60)

Lace Details Slub Top (Forever 21, $8.90)

1969 Lightweight Always Skinny Jean (Gap, $44.99)

Stripe Trim Blazer (Forever 21, $32.80)

Anne Michelle Ignite 68 Peep Toe Pumps (Vegan friendly!) (Lulu's, $33)
Grand Total = $179.69

Just a pointer--the watch is the most expensive part of this outfit. It was just too pretty to not include! However, you could easily accessorize this outfit differently, so go ahead and pinch those pennies! Be creative and make it your own :)

Style Inspiration: Minnie Mouse

Ever since 1928, Mickey Mouse has been one of the most recognizable and iconic cartoon characters worldwide. But let's be real. If we're acknowledging fashionable cartoon characters, we're looking at Mickey's long-term lady friend, Minnie Mouse. Born "Minerva Mouse," she was originally styled as a flapper girl (appropriately so in the late 20s). Her look has transformed over the years, and she is now most commonly seen in a red polka dot dress, yellow shoes, and a big bow between her ears! Minnie Mouse is a fun-loving, sometimes-ditsy gal with a big heart. Now, isn't that something we can all relate to? I hope you can release your inner Minnie with some of these adorable and affordable additions to your wardrobe!

1 - Red Polka Dot Headscarf -- ASOS, $5.49

2 - Spot Fit and Flare Dress -- Oasis, $75

3 - Minnie Mouse Kisslock Wallet -- FredFlare.com, $36 

4 - Retro Minnie Pullover -- Forever 21, $19.80

5 - Roberta Bow Peep Toe Flats -- Ruche, $34.99

6 - So Animated Skirt -- ModCloth, $47.99

7 - Moscova Polka Dot Bow-Accent Flats -- YesStyle.com, $55

8 - Way to Bow Hair Clip -- ModCloth, $9.99

9 - August Rush Polka Dot Dress -- Ruche, $44.99

And if you're like me, you can always satisfy your desire for more Minnie and Disney things by visiting the Disney Store! :)

Under $110: Those Summer Nights

A warning: Tonight's "Under $100" post had to be altered to "Under $110." I couldn't help but use all of these pieces and wasn't willing to budge! I hope your wallet doesn't mind the extra 9 dollars...

It's late August. Every day is sunny and hot. Then it usually rains. The rain cools everything down, giving us beautiful nighttime weather. (At least, that's how it goes here in North Carolina!)  During these wonderful hours between dusk and midnight, we must dress accordingly. It's still August, so it's still warm, but leaves us feeling a little chilled in comparison to our daytime sun and--let's be honest--sweat.  What I've tried to create tonight is an outfit that will keep you cute and comfortable during a gorgeous summer night! And because our Autumn days are fast approaching, I tried to use pieces and colors that you could easily work into your Fall wardrobe... Enjoy!

Annabel Lee Tank in Grey Motif (Anthropologie, $39.95)

Long Sleeve Lace Cardigan in Burgandy (Forever 21, $14.50)

Classic Stonewash Denim Shorts in Light Denim (Forever 21, $16.90)

The Elephant's Elegance Necklace (ModCloth, $14.99)

CityClassified Graben Cutout Oxford Flats in Tan (Vegan leather!) (Lulu's, $23.00)

Grand Total = $109.34

Carry this outfit from summer nights to autumn days! 

Wardrobe Essentials: Polka Dots

Okay, okay, so maybe polka dots aren't necessarily essential, but I think they're pretty darn close!

I have loved polka dots since I was really little and I think I always will. Polka dots are such a versatile pattern: you can find them in any size, in any color, and on any article of clothing! Polka dots can be retro (1950s dresses), totally radical (80s and 90s inspired), or perfectly modern! Wearing them is an easy way to make any outfit more fun and girly without having to wear hot pink, lace, or pearls. And, honestly, wearing them is pretty effortless! Replace a basic with something covered in polka dots! Instead of a black shirt and jeans, wear a black shirt and polka dot shorts. Wearing an LBD out tonight? How about trying a LBPDD?

Here's a variety of affordable polka dot pieces that I found! I hope you find a place for polka dots in your closet soon! (Guys, that includes you too! Try a polka dot tie for an evening out or be daring and find a slouchy polka dot cardigan!)

1- 2 in 1 Spot Tunic -- Topshop, $24.00
2- Cream Spot Shirt Dress -- Topshop, $60.00
3- Natalie Wood Black Romper -- Lulu's, $26.00
4- Rounds and Rounds Top -- Modcloth, $37.99
5- High-Waisted Short -- Delia's, $34.50
6- Vero Moda Polka Dot Frill Sleeve Dress -- ASOS, $25.86
7- Polka Dot Skort -- Free People, $19.95 (also available in b&w!)
8- Jean Claire Polka Dot Cutout Dress -- Ruche, $34.99 (cute cutout detail on back!)
9- Polka Dot Top -- Forever 21, $15.80
10- Self-Tie Polka Dot Button Up -- Forever 21, $17.80

Stay stylish, my friends!

An (Overdue) Explanation...

Hello, readers!

Thank you all for being so patient while I've been away. I feel bad that I've gone so long without an update, but I'm here to right that wrong! Please read for an explanation of what has been going on and what you can expect to read from me in the upcoming weeks...

What's Been Happening...

Over the past few weeks, I have been all kinds of busy! I thought that I would be able to regularly update my blog more easily when I was home for summer (as opposed to being at school), but I was entirely wrong. On top of having a summer job, I have been all over NC for vacations, etc. 

I also spent a lot of time working as an extra on the set of the movie adaptation of The Hunger Games! This was an amazing experience for me that I will never forget. Look for me on the big screen in March 2012! It was a delight to meet and work with the likes of Gary Ross, Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, and Elizabeth Banks. I worked extremely long hours for several days in a row and knew I would be unable to keep this old thing updated! Maybe one day I'll post an entry all about my experience! (Stay tuned!)

What Will Be Happening...

I have decided that I'm going to stop doing my regular posts (Girl Crush, Studmuffin, Flick Pick, etc.) on specific days every week. Don't get me wrong, I will still make posts that follow those guidelines! But I found that I was trying to produce adequate blog entries instead of just letting myself write when I was really feeling it. I don't want to give you all entries that feel forced. I missed my own deadlines so frequently anyway (which  is something that I'm going to work on!), so I figured that this won't be too much of an issue for you all!

I would also like to get this blog more focused on its fashion roots again! I love finding good deals and outfits for others, and that's what I'd love to do here! However, I do love writing about other topics, so the blog still won't be strictly fashion.

I plan on getting this updated at least once or twice a week, but, like I mentioned, I don't want anything to feel forced. I don't want to stress myself out either! :-p I am flying out to California in a few days, and I'll also be taking a trip to Florida in mid-July, so those might hinder my ability to update. I just feel that it is fair to give you all fair warning! I don't want to disappear on you again!

Every time I update the blog, I will post something on my personal Twitter account @MeganFarrell_, so if you're not subscribed to my page on Blogger, you can stay in the know via my tweets!

Thank you to everyone for sticking with me! I hope to bring you some more affordable fashion later this week! I think there is a bright outlook for this blog on the horizon...

xox, 

Megan(ista)

Weekly Girl Crush: Kelly Osbourne

Apologies for getting this out a tad bit late again. My computer decided to freeze for literally 25 minutes when I was trying to wrap this up. I'll just go ahead and consider Tuesday to technically end when I go to bed (which will usually transition into Wednesday morning)... Annnyyyway:

This Tuesday's Weekly Girl Crush is all about Kelly Osbourne!

All of us go through weird and awkward stages in our lives. But most of us don't have the added pressure of doing that on TV every week. Kelly, daughter of Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne, grew up in front of TV cameras. Her family starred in one of MTV's first reality TV shows, "The Osbournes." Kelly was quickly deemed an aggressive teenage pottymouth with a couple extra pounds to carry around... Over the years, Kelly has shed that image and really embraced a healthier lifestyle.

Although her family's TV show is long gone, Kelly has maintained her status as a TV personality.  Kelly shed some pounds by dancing her way to 3rd place on "Dancing with the Stars" in 2009.  That is truly when her body transformed into the petite girly figure that it is today. She has since been in several health magazines talking about her diet and exercise routine so she can keep the weight off!

Kelly is also now one of the panelists on E!'s hit show, "Fashion Police." She fills the role well! Her red carpet looks over the past few years have been stunning. Ms. Osbourne definitely knows how to properly dress her new body!

In addition to TV, Kelly has also been active in theater (starring in Chicago in London's West End in 2007) and music. I will fully admit to loving her song "Shut Up!" and her cover of Madonna's "Papa Don't Preach" that came out in 2003 and 2002, respectively.  She has also modeled on several runways and has taken part in several print ads and campaigns. Acting, fashion, and music?! This girl has got it all.

After dealing with drug addictions, being ripped apart by the media regarding her weight, and a teenage life in the spotlight, Ms. Osbourne truly has come a long way. It makes me so happy to see her so happy and doing well. She is one of my girl crushes because she is so cute and bubbly but she still maintains a tough-girl edge. Her most recent fashion choices are verrry Old Hollywood and retro/vintage inspired, which I absolutely love!

Keep it up, Kelly! You're beautiful! Don't let any haters get to you! In the long run, we know they're all just jealous. If some tabloid reporter doesn't understand the difference between Spanx and bike shorts, screw 'em! They need to educate themselves and get over it.

Thanks to Kelly for being an inspiration to millions of girls! If you can turn your life around and become healthier and happier (and more fashion forward!), so can the rest of us!

Kelly was also a part of the "Give a Damn" campaign in 2010 that brought awareness to discrimination in the GLBT community through Cyndi Lauper's True Colors Fund. I think it is waaay cool of Kelly to have been involved in that. I, too, am a straight ally for the GLBT community and really respect others that stand up for GLBT rights!

Here are some pictures of some of my favorite looks of hers... 

I hope you've enjoyed this week's Girl Crush! Be sure to follow this pint-size fashionista on Twitter @MissKellyO!

Perfect mix of retro glam, preppy, and girly!

Kelly showing off her new body at the 2010 Emmy Awards

Kelly wearing a vintage Courtney Love-esque look at Coachella this year

Flick Pick: Cry Baby

It's Saturday night! That means it's time for another Flick Pick!

Tonight, I'll be blogging, singing, and dancing about...

Cry Baby is a 1990 film by John Waters starring the one and only Johnny Depp. It also happens to be one of the most fun movies ever. The movie is a rockabilly musical set in the 1950s, focusing on two rival groups of teenagers: the Squares and the Drapes. It's an obvious parody of 50s-based musicals, like Grease, and will entertain you the whole time.

Johnny Depp plays the handsome but rebellious "Cry-Baby" Walker, a Drape, and trouble ensues when he strikes up a romance with Allison (played by Amy Locane), the typical all-American sweetheart (and an obvious Square).  The movie is so quirky and bizarre, in all of the best ways possible!

In addition to the awesome and silly music (favorite songs are "King Cry-Baby," "Please, Mr. Jailer," and "High School Hellcats"), my absolute favorite thing about the movie is the fashion.  Every since I was very young, I was fascinated with the 1950s.  I had a handmade poodle skirt and everything!  The fashion of the "Squares" reflects the very stereotypical clean-cut dresses and bow ties look, which I love.  But what I love even more is all of the Rockabilly fashion worn by the Drapes:

I sport Rockabilly-inspired looks almost every day.  Red lips, black winged eyeliner, and something in black, white, and red.  Animal print and leather (or faux leather, please!) are also huge staples in a rockabilly wardrobe.  

Rockabilly gals are all about showing off their curves and having a tough-but-feminine look and attitude.  In the film, Traci Lords' character, Wanda (pictured at the right with Depp), even says, "I wouldn't be caught dead in a full skirt." Wanda is probably my favorite character. She's gorgeous and sassy and pulls off the blunt bangs, arched eyebrows, and red lip effortlessly.

So, ladies, embrace your figure (no matter what it might happen to be), and slip into some curve-hugging wiggle skirts!  Here are some rockin' options for a look that's anything but square:

Stop Staring Sexy Safari Wiggle Dress (Unique Vintage, $170.00)

Black Zip Faux Leather Jacket (Windsor, $34.90)

Ellie Satin Peep Toe Mariane Platform Pump in Red/Black (Unique Vintage, $74.00)

Satin Bow Hair Clips in Black, for pinning those curls back! (Forever 21, $2.50)

Various Cry Baby T-Shirts in Black and Red (Hot Topic, $22.00 each)

Keep rockin', fashionistas!

Show Your Patriotism in Style!

My American readers are most likely celebrating right now. Just a few hours ago, President Barack Obama announced the death of Osama bin Laden.  Almost ten years after the 9/11 attacks on America, "Justice has been done."  I ask that we all keep the families of those killed on 9/11/01 in our thoughts and remember that we're celebrating justice, not a man's death.

That being said... My duty here is not to post my opinions on the subject matter. My duty is to provide you with fashion! So I've compiled a few items that will allow you to show off your American Pride in style! Throw out your old flag t-shirts and slip on some of these haute patriotic pieces!

1 - White Roll Back American Flag Print Tee -- Topshop, $45.00

2 - Redopin American Flag Print T-Shirt -- YesStyle.com, $15.40

3 - Rockin' in the USA Flag Oversized V-Neck Tee -- Urban Outfitters, $9.99

4 - Maurie and Eve American Flag Spectator Tank -- I Don't Like Mondays, $98.00

5 - America Unisex Crew -- Wildfox Couture, $77.00

6 - Moto Patched Flag Print High Waisted Hotpants -- Topshop, $66.00

7 - Flag Cropped T-Shirt by Illustrated People -- Topshop, $50.00

EDIT: Also a good (and more affordable) option:

Faded Old Glory Top -- Forever 21, $8.90

Keep it up, America. We have our justice... now let's work on peace.

Photo by Michael Appleton for the New York Times

Under $100: Springtime Special Occasion

For the second installment of "Under $100," I tackled a difficult task: finding an affordable outfit for a special occasion! Whether you're going to a wedding, graduation, prom, or just a nice dinner out, springtime provides many opportunities to get dressed up. Here's a way to get a complete spring-appropriate look for that special occasion... for less than $100!

The soft colors used in this outfit are perfectly appropriate for spring! Let out your feminine side with this blush-colored dress and costume pearl bracelets. Here's the outfit break-down:

Long Chiffon Dress in Pink (H&M, $59.95)

Anne Michelle Ignite 30 Platform Pumps in Taupe (Lulu's, $33.00)

Flower Hoop Earrings in Mint (Forever 21, $3.80)

Small Pearlescent Bead Bracelet Set in Cream (Forever 21, $2.80)

Grand Total = $99.55

Keep your hair and make-up soft with this look! If you choose to wear your hair up (to show off these beautiful and affordable mint-green earrings), keep everything loose and light.  It will keep you looking very fresh and spring-appropriate.  A warning if you wear this to a wedding: don't be offended if the bride gets mad... you just might steal the spotlight!

Flick Pick: Dazed and Confused

Welcome to the first weekly Flick Pick! Every Saturday, I will highlight one of my favorite movies! I'll also look at some of the fashion within the movie and prove to you that it's worth watching (if you for some reason haven't seen it yet). This week, I'll be talking about Dazed and Confused!

Dazed and Confused is my go-to beginning-of-summer movie. It follows a group of rising high school freshman and rising seniors on the last day of school in 1976.  Great music, great actors, great one-liners, and great wardrobe.  The cast of the 1993 Richard Linklater movie features a handful of unknowns and a handful of big stars: Ben Affleck, Matthew McConaughey, Parker Posey, and Milla Jovovich to name a few.  Being a bit of a Broadway Baby, I also love seeing Anthony Rapp (original Mark in RENT) as the sort-of-dorky rising senior, Tony.

1970s fashion seems to make a comeback every summer around "summer music festival" time. You could easily get away with wearing just about any of the outfits worn by these ladies to an outdoor concert or festival this summer. What am I talking about? Throw on a maxi dress and sandals and head to the grocery store! 1970s fashion is here to stay.

Let's look at Milla Jovovich as Michelle Burroughs:

You can create an outfit inspired by Milla's look with pieces like these:

Lace Trim Bandeau Top in Electric Berry (Free People, $28.00)

Bell Bottom Super Flare Jeans in Pale Blue Whiskered (7 For All Mankind, $178.00)

Cord Fringe Vest in Mocha (Akira, $36.90)

Butterfly Perf Stretch Belt in Tan (Fossil, $38.00)

Cutout Cross Charm Necklace in Silver (Forever 21, $4.80)

Boho Braided Necklace in Turquoise/Red (Forever 21, $4.80)

GoMax Berdine 31 Be Strappy Flat Thong Sandals in Brown (Lulu's, $20.00)

Go grab your acoustic guitar and make your last day of school the best one ever.

("It'd be a lot cooler if you did!")

***This post is dedicated to my dad and his love for Milla Jovovich! Love you, Dad!

Photo Credits:

http://sweetfuzz.com/2009/02/12/fuzzy-favorite-dazed-and-confused/

http://www.millaj.com/film/dazed.shtml

Wardrobe Essentials: Nude Pumps

Sure, sure, everyone has at least one pair of black pumps. But do you own a pair of nude pumps?? If you don't, you need to! Now! 

Nude pumps are Heaven-sent for us girls that may be a little vertically challenged (and they're a great softer-looking alternative to bolder shoes)! Flesh-toned shoes create the illusion of your legs going on forever. With a short dress and dark-colored heels, the eye is drawn to the shoe. The shoe, in this case, emphasizes the end of the leg. So, with a good heel, a girl of 5'4" call pull off looking... maybe 5'7". But with a good heel that matches your skin tone... well, you might as well be 8 feet tall.

 Let's observe Amanda Seyfried. Beautiful, young, and talented. And 5'3".

In a short dress with black shoes:

In a short dress with nude shoes:

See what I mean? Thought so.

"So, Megan, where do we get said shoes??"

I'm so glad you asked! Here are some options for various budgets:

1 - The shoe of all shoes. Christian Louboutin. Mmm. But unless you have an extra $775 laying around, these probably aren't for you. (A girl can dream though, right?)

2 - Mossimo Pearce Pump in Camel Patent -- Target, $29.99

3- Nude Round Toe Pump with Ankle Strap -- Unique-Vintage.com, $28.00 (I own these shoes! They're super cute but not for girls who aren't super comfortable in heels. Start with something with a smaller and wider heel if you feel you need to!)

4 - Aldo Moos in Natural -- Aldo, $75.00

5 - Aldo Capecoral in Bone -- Aldo, $80.00

6 - Patent Leatherette Pumps in Tan -- Forever 21, $16.80

7 - Mossimo Black Versie Pumps in Natural Patent -- Target, $29.99

So go forth, my fashionistas, and get yourself some nude pumps!

Photo credits (Amanda Seyfried):

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1030634/Mama-Mia-Scarlet-woman-Meryl-Streep-turns-blue-carpet-red-film-premiere.html

http://urbanjunglefashion.wordpress.com/2011/03/09/hot-girl-of-the-week-amanda-seyfried/

Under $100: Classic Casual

What's better than fashion? Affordable fashion! 

I can't tell you how many times I've drooled over an outfit only to realize it costs thousands of dollars. I have been lucky enough to discover where some of the greatest deals are hiding! And now, it is my duty to share them with you. That's the basis of my segment, "Under $100." I'll post outfits that I've put together and let you know where you can snatch 'em up! And I promise that none of the outfits will drain your wallets.

For the first installment, I give you... "Classic Casual"

This is a great look for the warmer Spring days or the cooler Summer days. A great outfit can be made by sticking to the basics: black and white.  This outfit consists of:

Pleated Button Up Shirt in White (Forever 21, $18.90)

Classic Career Jacket in Black (Forever 21, $27.80)

BDG 5-Pocket Short in Dazed (Urban Outfitters, $39.00)

Missy Polka Dot Espadrille Wedge in Black (Payless, $16.99)

Chain Variety Necklace in Gold (Forever 21, $8.80)

Glasses Frame Necklace in Gold (Forever 21, $2.80)

Grand Total = $114.29

Okay, okay, so it's not under $100. But! If you're like me and lucky enough to get 25% off at Urban Outfitters (shout-out to my GBF), the total would be $104.54. 

In classic "Meganista" fashion, I would pair this outfit with a bold red lip. Pictured with the collection, I've included Cover Girl Outlast Lip Stain. It stays on your lips! I swear! Also, I own these BDG shorts in two colors. They are super comfy and great for lots of body types. It's time for the ladies to embrace a slightly higher waist! And it probably goes without saying that I would tuck this shirt into the shorts.

So, for (slightly above) $100, I give you an outfit that's easy to put together and wear that is guaranteed to turn some heads! Shop on, fashionistas! Shop on!

The First Post

Oh! Hello, there! I didn't notice you come in!

I'm Megan, and I've got a lot to say.

I have passions for fashion, photography, music, theater, and more, and I finally decided I needed an outlet to share my loves and thoughts. You're reading the first ever blog post for Meganista. (Exciting, right?)

Through Meganista, I plan to share some of my current favorite music, affordable fashion, not-so-affordable fashion, and other important information, like my "Studmuffin of the Week" and "Weekly Girl Crushes." I know I've got you on the edge of your seat now.

So stay tuned and keep checking back! I hope I can be of some help (or at least provide some entertainment) for all of you... 

Until then!