Summer must-haves under $50

As seen on the Today Show "Low Cost - Hight Style"


Isaac Mizrahi for Target® Trapunto Dress - Chesterfield Navy - $49.99
Complete Your Wardrobe with this Classic A-Line Dress. Sleeveless Cut, Back Zipper Closure, Back Button Closure, Discreet On-Seam Pockets, Front Pockets. Made of 100% Polyester; Machine Wash Warm, Tumble Dry Low. Just Below-the-Knee Length, Full Skirt
100% Polyester Taffeta Lining

Chinese Laundry Razor Sandals - $39.99
The simple t-strap upper of this basic sandal has a chic look for any summer outfit. Synthetic upper. Rubber outsole.

Rented Fendi Baguette - $49/week ($5 - $10 for membership @ Bag Borrow or Steal)
The beloved 'Baguette' -- Carrie Bradshaw's signature bag on 'Sex and the City' -- is celebrating its 10th anniversary with fresh new takes on the iconic Fendi handbag. This must-have version features quilted leather in candy pink, one of Spring's hottest colors, and is finished with a sleek logo clasp and goldtone hardware. Dimensions: 10 1/2"L X 1 3/4" W X 5 1/2"H; 7" drop handle.

Rings by Inspired Silver - $20-26
You're sure to be noticed wearing this eye-catching ring with its 4 ct. garnet-like center stone and vermeil rope-style wire setting. Center stone sits 1/4" above ring.

For the beach:

Floral-print scarf by The Gap - $19.50
Summer scarves are a favorite style with a fresh twist. In airy fabrics, rich colors, and cheerful prints for warmer weather. Not just for winter anymore! - Lightweight cotton. Brown print also has metallic stripes.

I.Sound Audio Vault Portable Speakers for iPod - $14.99
The i.Sound Audio Vault lets you share your favorite music with friends while protecting your iPod at the same time. The compact case is barely larger than the iPod itself, yet includes a pair of built-in micro drivers along the rear for out-loud playback. The case's hard-shell exterior, meanwhile, sports a cushioned black cover that resists scratches, dents, and other iPod hazards. Best of all, the sound is surprisingly robust thanks to the Bass Boost function. The safest way to carry, play, and protect any model of iPod, the Audio Vault also includes an integrated Wake Me alarm function and runs on standard AAA batteries (not included).

Get the look: Poetic Sundress

Pima Cotton/Linen Pastoral Pinafore
An airy weave of cotton (86%) and linen (14%) is sewn into the most poetic sundress. Embellished with pintucks, pointelle and lace insets, and refined with a demure front button placket. A simple drawstring defines the waist. PLEASE NOTE: full slip included



Pima Cotton Cabana Stripe Shawl
The handwoven cream-colored shawl in deliciously soft pima is striped in pewter and lemon; the perfect early spring cover up.



Handwoven Sisal Back Bow Hat
The handwoven sisal hat is trimmed with a grey silk ribbon.



Dogwood Blossom Necklace
The sterling silver four petal pendant is set with cat’s eye, jet beads and grey crystals; the chain adjusts from 16" to 20."

The Top 10 Colors for Spring Clothes

photo © Decor8

Mix and match. That's the order of the day when it comes to spring and summer fashion with a palette of colors that is defined by classic, versatile neutrals punctuated by splashes of invigorating brights. Now it's up to you to explore new and creative ways to combine these colors. Playing a key role this season are variations on popular colors such as energizing red, cool, waterborne blue and eco-friendly green. "The spring '08 color palette perfectly reflects the cheerfulness of the season," said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. "Stabilizing neutrals combined with pops of brighter colors to create unique, distinctive looks are the basis for a great spring and summer wardrobe."

Pantone, the color research and information center, has released its list of the top 10 colors for spring and summer 2008:
Golden olive
Spring crocus
Rococo red
Pink mist
Croissant
Freesia
Cantaloupe
Daiquiri green
Snorkel blue
Silver gray

It's all about making a statement! The season is characterized by bold, vivid colors and patterns that are accented with dramatic accessories. Most popular are floral dresses and patterned pants. Look for shoes that will stand out in a crowd in bright yellow, red and blue, as well as animal prints and florals. Oversized, bejeweled belts, bold bangles and clutch purses will finish the look.

But no matter what the designers are showing, you should buy clothes in colors that look good on you. Consider your personal palette: the color of your eyes, hair and skin tone. Find the colors that make your eyes twinkle and give your skin a natural glow. According to ColorConnections.com, your best colors will not only make you excited about how you look, but also make you look healthy and young. And that is bound to get you compliments!

Get the look: Relaxed Flare Dress

Pima Cotton Fit and Flare Dress
In a refreshing shade of Pool pima, our fine-gauge knit tank dress flows from a fitted bodice to a graceful full skirt with engineered godets.



Ikat Silk Scarf/Shawl
The drapey silk shawl/headwrap is ikat-woven in copper and blue



Leather Bolero Studded Belt
Two rows of brass studs frame our rustic leather belt, anchored with a horseshoe-style buckle. Belted with an asymmetrical, stitched and studded western style belt.



Copper & Pima Bangle
The bangles are handwoven of earth and denim-colored pima, sheathed in hammered copper.

Dorothy Perkins introduce Gok Wan!

Dorothy Perkins, the largest womenswear retailer in the UK, with over 580 stores nationwide,has traded since 1919 and has been online since 1999.
They now deliver to the USA and they have exciting news: they have just introduced a new advice section where Gok Wan himself - the guru for all real women like us - will tell all about fashion, trends and figure fixers. See for yourself!


"I'm loving the new Summer range from Dorothy Perkins. Click here for my guide to the essential grabs for this month."

"Whatever your size or shape I&rsquom going to show you how to make the most of your gorgeous figure."
Are you a Leggy Lady, Dainty Diva or a Booty Beauty?

Click here to find out what your body shape is ›

"Each week I'll be choosing one can't live without fashion item from Dorothy Perkins. This week it's this gold clutch bag:
hit the town with this gorgeous gold clutch bag - a must have addition to any party outfit!"

Gold bow front clutch›

"Ladies, it's time to dress to impress! Here are my recommendations for the ultimate dress for your body shape."

Read the full feature >

Bright and sunny new Boden Summer range

Boden's summer collection has landed, and with a host of new additions, will definitely put you in the mood for warmer climates.

The Scallop Applique Top is one of our favourites, and is the type of piece that will take you effortlessly across garden parties, days on the beach, or tropical breaks: a delightful, lightweight top in which to herald the coming of summer. Ideal for smartening up a pair of jeans or matching with something smarter.

It is the perfect time to shop, as RealLooksforRealWomen.com readers are eligible for an exclusive 10% off, with free shipping and returns. Click here to take advantage of this excellent offer: 10% off, Free Delivery and Free Returns

Taste the colours of the Italian summer at Boden

Ruffle Cotton Dress
We know you love a wrap dress, ruffles and easy to wear colours, so here is a great combination of all three.


Grainy Leather Espadrilles
No common or garden espadrilles, these are made with our best quality leather with fetching contrast stitching, and a nicely proportioned wedge heel.

Fine Summer Printed Cardigan
A truly lovely cardigan which has both retro charm and incredible vitality. Fine gauzy linen yarn in five gorgeous designs, all with linen-covered buttons.


New Scoop Neck Vest
Whether you wear it on its own or as the first layer of many, there is no denying the simple beauty of this top.


Washed Belted Linen Shorts
Given that these are only humble shorts, they are quietly aspirational. As casual as they are, the fabric and tie at the waist allow them to be dressed up as high as you like.


Strappy Sandals
Flat sandals aren’t always the preserve of the bearded and beachy- these are a rather more glamorous affair, cast in suede and gleaming patent leather.

Pintuck Linen Shirt
The quintessential summer fabric in a new shape and style. Smart enough to wear to work or a party, but also great with jeans or a casual skirt.


Bootcut Sassy Jeans
The original flattering bootcut shape – fitted on the waist, hip and thigh before widening to a full bootcut hem.


Leather Flip Flops
These are the sort of flips flops you trawl the shoe shops of Europe for whilst on holiday, and are infuriated to find a much better quality version of at home. Save yourself sandal rage.

A budget girl's guide to S/S 08 trends: Summer of love

"Peace, love and patchouli - you could practiclly smell the joss sticks as festival-worthy fashion wafted down the runway. Whether it was fringed suede or chiffon maxi dresses, Sienna-style, they all shared a mix-and.match vibe."
InStyle Magazine

$300+


ZG by Grimaldi Betty Chiffon Dress in Rust Peacock
ZG by Grimaldi is a collection of stunningly feminine designs in bold prints. The Betty Chiffon Dress in Rust Peacock is a gorgeous, flowing silk chiffon dress with a brown silk belt that ties at the back for a flirty look. The simple halter dress style is flirty, yet sophisticated, and the long length natural print makes it the perfect frock for winter.
Fabric Content: 100% silk chiffon with 100% silk belt
Fit: non-stretch
Color: rust peacock

$200+


Cake Couture Foiled Rose Mosaic Skirt in Grey
The Foilded Rose Mosaic Skirt in Grey is a beautiful design from Cake Couture. The skirt features silver floral embroidery at the bottom half of the skirt. The skirt falls right above the ankle.
Fabric Content: 100% Cotton
Fit: comfortable
Color: grey

$100+


Lotta Stensson King Rich Tunic
Lotta Stensson's fabulous designs feature exquisite embroidery and embellishments. The King Rich Tunic is a dazzling creation with a mock turtleneck and split front opening. Short flare sleeves have sequin trim at the opening. The neckline is bejeweled with sequins, rhinestones and a large oval stone in the center. Small side slits allow for comfortable movement.
Fabric Content: 100% cotton linen
Fit: loose
Colors: black or copper

$50+


Accessories & Beyond Buddha Leather Bracelet in Pink
The Buddha Leather Bracelet in Pink is an eclectic charm bracelet by Accessories & Beyond. This braided leather bracelet has an adjustable clasp and a variety of dangling silver, bronze and gold Buddha charms. Materials: braided leather Length: 6-8 inches (adjustable chain clasp)
Details: silver, bronze and gold metallic Buddha charms
Color: pink or black

A budget girl's guide to S/S 08 trends: bright IS beautiful

"Black addicts, beware - fashion's gone technicolor, with the catwalks ablaze with a dazzling array of bold bright hues, from cobalt, chartreuse and lime to tomato, fuchsia and emerald."
InStyle Magazine

$300+

Ziji Tea Party Dress in Fuchsia Ziji's original creations are unparalleled in their luxury and elegance. The Tea Party Dress in Fuchsia is a sensational silk dress with a sophisticated chiffon neck tie. The flirty frock has a split neckline with a small self covered button closure. Sheer chiffon sleeves are banded with shirred silk cuffs and three self covered buttons. The elegant chiffon tie adds a decadent touch.
Fabric Content: 100% silk
Fit: loose
Care: dry clean only
Color: fuchsia
Details: made in USA

$200+

Walter Sateen Dress in Emerald Walters trendy collection features elegant, sophisticated pieces in flattering cuts. The Sateen Dress in Emerald is a very chic mod dress that has a conservative cut and tailored fit. The high cut neckline is highlighted by a self covered button on the left side and cap sleeves. Slight vertical pleading on the front and back side with a sown in waistline adds a tailored touch sure to highlight all the curves of your body.
Fabric Content: 70% rayon 30% polyester
Fit: tailored
Color: emerald

$100+

Laura Dahl Jane Dress The Jane by Laura Dahl is a modern cut tunic dress with a contrast tie belt at the waist. The wide boat neckline and sharply cut flutter sleeves allow this dress to drape flatteringly over your curves. The tie belt is attached by two delicate handing chains on either side of the dress, adding an edgy modern accent to the mod style of this dress.
Fabric Content: 90% cotton 10% silk
Fit: loose
Colors: fuchsia, noir
Details: hand embroidered, chain loops on each side support tie belt

$50+

LaRok Chain Belted Mini Dress in Hibiscus The Chain Belted Mini Dress in Hibiscus is a fabulously fresh design from LaRok. This mid length dress features a chain belt around the waist, and is brightly colored which is perfect for the season! This LaRok number is perfect for any occasion!
Color: Hibiscus

A budget girl's guide to S/S 08 trends: romance and lightness

"Designers were obviously feeling the unbearable lightness of being, if this season's plethora of frothy layered confections and gauzy fabrics are anything to go by. Ruffles and corsages adorned everything from waistlines to accessories."
InStyle Magazine

$300+

Betsey Johnson Tiered Dress in Blush Betsey Johnson is a staple in the fashion industry, in which she is known for her unique and original designs that are usually known for being over the top. The Tiered Dress in Blush should change its name to Pretty in Pink because thats all you will be wearing this glamorous chiffon mini dress! This adjustable spaghetti strap mini has a crossed over front, which gathers on the left side. Darted seems on the bust add a more flattering fit. Chiffon gathers on the left side of the dress, which is detailed with two corsages to add a flirtatious touch to this adorable mini.
Fabric Content: shell 100% silk, lining 100% polyester
Fit: fitted bodice
Color: blush
Care: dry clean only

$200+

Cake Couture Tea Cake Tiered Dress in Pink/Rose Cake Couture has a fresh and feminine approach to dressing the modern woman. Their unique look embraces a simplistic color palette with special attention to feminine details like embroidery and tailoring. The Tea Cake Tiered Dress is an eyelet pattern, with floral embroidery on the front panel. This short sleeved dress is perfect for warm spring nights!
Fabric Content: 100% cotton
Details: eyelet pattern, floral embroidery on front panel
Color: pink/rose

$100+

Betsey Johnson Satin Bow Dress in Pink Betsey Johnson is a staple in the fashion industry, in which she is known for her unique and original designs that are usually known for being over the top. The Satin Bow Dress in Pink is a fun and flirty dress. The dress features cap puff sleeves and at the waist is a satin bow that from there falls to tiered ruffles. The dress is a 100 % silk, and falls right above the knee.
Fabric Content: 100% silk
Fit: fitted
Color: pink
Size 2 and 4 are on sale at Label Spree!

$50+


Ella Moss Pleated Tube Dress in Lilac Ella Moss Pleated Tube Dress. Absolutely adorable! Preppy, pastel tube dress with banded chest and waist. Skirt measures 13.5 inches from waist. Fully lined.
Fabric Content: 96% Viscose, 4% Spandex.
Color: lilac
Fit: loose

Real look of the month: wearable hearts

Betsey Johnson - Patent With Puffy Hearts (Black/ Red) - Accessories
Add some flair to any outfit with this sexy patent leather belt from Betsey Johnson. Single tongue dress buckle. Single metal keeper loop. Brass tone hardware. Width: 2" wide.



Roxy - Gone South (Crimson)You don't have to go south to get this cute bag. Super soft sweater knit bag. Interior lining with back wall zip and slip pockets. Top magnetic snap button closure. Cute button detail. Puff tassel accessory. 100% acrylic. Dimensions: 16" w x 13" h x 3" d. Strap drop 12".



Roxy - Muriel (Crimson) Be prepared for compliments because you'll be definitely flaunting this bag everywhere. Interior lining with back wall zip pocket. Top snap magnetic button closure. Roxy logo key chain. Dimensions: 17" w x 13" h x 5" d. Strap drop 9".



Allen Allen - Micro Jersey Heart Crew LS Relax your wardrobe with the sweet appeal of this long sleeve crew neck. Tie-dye heart design will send nothing but good vibes to those around you. Breathable cotton fabric is machine washable and easy to wear.



e.vil - 50-347 Heart (Black) - Women's Designer Collection Sassy and sweet, saunter in these stylish and soft beloved black bottoms by e.vil. The darling heart decor on the left hip demands devotion. Drop waist with drawstring. Flared bottom leg. Inseam: 28.5". Outseam: 37.5". Front rise: 9". Back rise: 10". Leg opening: 22". 80% cotton and 20% polyester. Machine wash cold and line dry. Imported.



Nike - Women's Heart No Show 6-Pair Pack (White/Varsity Red/Perfect Pink/Team Red) - Accessories These cute socks make a great addition to any wardrobe. Hemmed double welt top for moisture management and superior fit. Y-stitch heel pocket for a comfortable fit. Reinforced heel and toe for enhanced durability in high wear areas. Lycra spandex construction helps fit and improves feel. 68% cotton, 31% nylon, and 1% spandex. Machine washable.



Kamik - Hearts (Rust) - Women's A waterproof, and lightweight PVC rainboot that looks good, rain or shine. Chic printed lining. Removable Kamik comfort footbed. RAIN outsole maximizes traction in varied terrain.



Not Rated - Broken Heart (White/Red) - Women's These utterly adorable flats are a fresh new addition to spring's hottest trend. Crackled leather upper with heart print. Bow with metal heart tassels. Fabric lining. Rubber outsole.



Sugar - Hill Heart (Black) - Juniors Sporty and sweet mary janes. Canvas upper with contrast fabric piping. Lightly padded footbed. EVA midsole. Rubber sole.



Betsey Johnson - Loop De Loop Cross Body Heart (Red Patent) - Handbags Heart-shaped cross body bag made of patent leather. Holds your credit cards, currency and cell phone. Dimensions: 4" wide x 2 1/4" deep x 6" high. ; Chic chunky hardware details with tassel accent. Single cross body strap. Cross body drop: 20 length. Top zip closure. Printed interior lining.

Real Look of the Month: AW 2007

What to wear this season, from head to toe:

The Lovely Sweater

Long Sleeve Stripe V-Neck Sweater
Colorful and upbeat are two ways to describe this V-neck sweater and make it a must-have for the holiday season . . . and every season thereafter.

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The Warm Gloves

Stitch Gloves
Warm and versatile! Wear these gloves with the cuff extended or folded down to show the contrasting stitching.

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The Colorful Scarf

Pom Pom Stripe Scarf
Bring out your lively side with this fun, fringed scarf in colorful tones. The hand-knit look adds to its charm.

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The Outerwear

Puffer Coat
Satiny-smooth inside and out, this will be your favorite go-to jacket throughout the winter. Warm and fluffy!

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The Jeans

Velvet Jean - Innovator
Dress up your jeans in velour luxury. Who said jeans can't be sophisticated?

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The Handbag

Patent Leather Nora Hobo
The graceful lines make this a beautiful fashion accessory that will stylishly carry all your essentials.

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A recipe for a perfect summer

10 ingredients to cook up a special Summer Look, 10 essential staples that will take you through the warmest months of the year in total cool style - you can mix and match them how you like...
Let's begin!


Nautical Stripes: a staple for summer breezy looks




How fun is this Splendid Rugby Stripe Top. Great to wear with warmer weather ahead. Beautiful ornage V neck with 3 button closure. 3/4 solid sleeves. 25% Pima Cotton, 25% Modal, 50% Polyester Machine Wash Cold Made in USA.
Available online at Pink Mascara

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High-waisted jeans: a really hot come-back




High Rise Bell Bottom in Caroline combines retro style with modern denim styling. The classic high rise style has two front slash pockets with embroidered outlines and back slash pockets with pleats for a seamlessly flattering fit. Front whiskering across the hips and thighs adds a vintage look. The 24 flare leg is perfectly reminiscent of the Disco Era and begs you to get down with your funky self!
Available online at CoutureCandy

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60's Mod Look: colorful and fun!




This cute little Mod Print Halter Dress with Empire Seams comes in a purple, black, white and gray retro print! Empire seam with tie back sash. Ties at neck. Padded at the bust. Pull on.Measures 26" down the side seam.
Available online at Rampage

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Piratey Accessories: skull & bones are in, thanks to a certain Captain Sparrow....




The Skull Rosary Pendant by Rachel Leigh is perfect for any punk rock princess. The necklace features a silver skull pendant on gunmetal crystal rosary chain, heart charm and a clasp in back. The 22 long chain makes this necklace ideal to layer or wear alone as an absolute statement necklace.
Available online at LabelSpree

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Perfect sun-kissed complexion, in all safety




Fake Bake Self-Tanning Airbrush exclusive formula contains high percentages of two tanning agents, DHA and Erythrulose, that bond with your skin's pigment. Our technologytransports thses active ingredients to deeper layers of skin. The results..a tan that is more intense, even and natural looking than anything on the market. Now this FABULOUS TAN comes as a Flawless Airbrush Tan. Easy to apply and fast drying. Will not show up in pores.
Available online only at Cosmetic Mall

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Cool and chic in White




Sweetees White Consuela Dress has a chiffon upper-bodice. Slight scoop neck with button closure in back. Elastic banding below bust with chiffon wrap around tie detail. Ties at side. 2.5" Chiffon detail. Contrast fabrication at bottom bodice. Lined at top. Knee-length.
Available online at FashionChateau

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Accessorize your hair in style




Playful and pretty, this Gara Danielle Elastic Hair Wrap is girly fashion delight. Print cotton headband with elastic band and tie behind head. 3" wide.
Available online at Shopbop

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Ballerina Flats from Tory Burch




The Tory Burch Shoes Reva Ballet Flat comes in such lovely colors - like lipstick red and sunny yellow - that move easily from warm to cool weather. You can be sure will be using these stylish-yet-wearable shoes when summer is gone, too.
Available online at Shopbop

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Diva Sunglasses





Unique prints are taken from Betsey Johnson's runway archives and are translated into wearable temple designs. Oversized handmade acetate square frame. Betsey Johnson s signature pink heart along with the BETSEY JOHNSON logo accent the wearer s left temple.
Available online at zappos

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Pin-up style swimwear




As seen in the May 2007 issue of Latina magazine. Flirty ties and ruching details in this Tab Bandeau & Tie Side Pant put a playful twist on a beach essential. Tab bandeau and tie side pant swimwear set. Lined.
Available online at House of Dereon

Work it like Betsey (Johnson, that is)

New York designer Betsey Johnson has built her long-standing career in fashion by following her own set of rules. Known for her celebration of the exuberant, the embelished, and the over the top, Betsey has been rocking the fashion industry with her unique and original designs since the 1960's.

Colorful and flirty, the new Betsey Johnson's collection is celebration of detail and sexiness. It reminds us that fashion can be fun, too. And being the fashion icon that she is, Betsey's style is embraced by both the prom-going set and long-time fans that are all grown-up now.

What we love, and what you'll love too:

1. Betsey Johnson Lace Halter Dress, available at Macy's. Sheer lace and ruffled trim make this dress a true beauty. Hits above knee; approximate length at center back (from below open back): 25 inches. Made in USA.
   
   
2. Betsey goes mod! A bold signature heart cutout hinge trimmed with metal is the highlight of this hip oval shaped frame: BJ 164. Dimensions: Lens 50mm W x 13mm H. Frame Width 127mm. Temple 61mm. Available at Zappos
   
   
3. Betsey Johnson - BJ4120: Silver tone single row charm bracelet. Clear stones with white textured dial. Jewelry clasp closure. Dimensions: Face 18mm W x 18mm H. Face Depth 8mm. Band Width 7mm. Band Circumference 7 inches. 3.30 oz. Available at Zappos
   
   
4. Betsey's Heart Satchel: Playful satchel style handbag made of leather. Holds wallet, keys and cell phone. Dimensions: 10" wide x 5 1/2" deep x 8" high. Dual handles. Handle drop: 4" length. Platform bottom. Top zip closure. Available at Zappos
   
   
5. Betsey Johnson - Lalita : Look your best in this sharp slide. Leather upper. Large bow embellishment. Leather sole. 3 1/2" heel. Available at Zappos
   
   
6. Like to get a little funky? Let loos with this awesome BJ 129 Betsey glass! This oval shaped acetate wrap frame features a three dimensional chain link temple design with a deeply engraved “BETSEY JOHNSON” logo. Betsey Johnson’s signature pink heart appears on the wearer’s left temple. Available at Zappos
   
   
7. Betsey Johnson - Lanica: fun and flirty sandal with a polk-a-dot pattern. Fabric upper. Knotted bow detail on vamp and quarter strap. Leather sole. 4 1/2" heel. Available at Zappos
   
   
8. Be daring and add a little flash to your look with this barrel shaped shoulder bag made of metallic synthetic leather: "24K barrel" by Betseyville Handbags, available at Zappos . Holds your wallet, sunglasses and personal technology. Dimensions: 14" wide x 4" deep x 9" high.


9. Look sharp in this chic, pointed toe flat: "Lilac" from Betsey Johnson. Smooth leather upper. Large bow embellishment. Leather sole. 1/2" heel. Available at Zappos
   

“Making clothes involves what I like…color, pattern, shape and movement…I like the everyday process…the people, the pressure, the surprise of seeing the work come alive walking and dancing around on strangers.