Wedding season is upon us. I don’t know about you, but nearly all of my weekends in April and May are booked because of upcoming nuptials. And as much as I love attending a wedding, they can be stressful. Travel arrangements must be made, gifts must be bought, hotels must be booked — and you have to decide what to wear! This is a lot of decision making — and it all comes at a steep price!

To relieve your stress, I’m going to share some tips on what to wear to this spring’s weddings. I’ll include advice on how to get these looks for less, so you can hopefully save a buck!

If you’re invited to a true black-tie affair, your invitation should state this. A white tie wedding is the most formal, and a floor-length gown is appropriate. A floor-length dress is also recommended for a black tie wedding.

You can get a lot of mileage out of a classic, floor-length black dress. If you have the chance, go shopping for a gown just after prom shopping season is over; chances are you can find a formal black dress (even in the woman’s section) at a discount price. When you’re buying a black gown, think about its cost per wear — the price of the gown divided by the number of times you predict you’ll wear it. Say you spend $100 on a gown and wear it to 4 weddings — that’s a $25 cost per wear.

With a simple black dress, you can accessorize it differently — and no one will be any the wiser that you’re repeating. Wear a shimmery pashmina to keep your shoulders warm, carry a glittery black clutch, and get some inexpensive costume jewelry to mix up your look.

If your wedding invitation says “black tie optional,” then you can wear a cocktail dress. If the invitation doesn’t specify formality, just looking at the presentation of the invitation can cue you in to how formal the event will be. You usually can’t go wrong wearing a cocktail dress to most weddings.

When shopping for a cocktail dress that you can wear again and again, think basic. You can always change up your shoes, evening shawl, and jewelry to give the dress a new look every time. The dress above features the silhouette of the moment: peplum!

If you receive an informal wedding invitation, or if you know the bride isn’t a fussy gal, you can wear a flirty and fun dress! This is good for your budget, because you can find cute and casual dresses at any price point. This spring, think florals, pastels, and romantic fabrics like chiffon. If the casual wedding happens to be outside, be sure to wear a pair of flats — you do not want to deal with your heels sinking into the grass all day. Also, whenever you attend an outdoor wedding, do not forget your sunglasses. Hopefully the bride and groom considered the position of the sun at the time of their ceremony, but a sun-in-the-eyes wedding happens more than you think!

Do you have friends getting married at some tropical locale? You lucky bum! This is a great excuse to take a little vacation. Beach weddings tend to be casual, and maxi dresses are perfect for this occasion. Maxi dresses are very trendy for spring, so you’re sure to find one within your budget. Again, don’t forget the sunglasses — and be sure to have a lightweight linen scarf in case the sea breeze gets chilly at night. Wear some sandals that can easily be removed. And please, please don’t forget to lather up the sunscreen. I know too many people who have gotten fried at beach weddings because during the bustle of the wedding day, sunscreen is forgotten!

I hope my tips and tricks for wedding wear help you out as you attend weddings this spring!

Author bio: Sarah Heckle is no wedding expert, but she did get married last fall and had a blast wedding planning. This spring, she’s looking forward to being maid of honor in her best friend’s wedding!

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner — have you figured out what you’re going to wear yet? No matter if you’re having date night with your special someone, a night out with friends, or a lazy evening home with the kids, I have tips on what to wear for this most love-infused of days:

Are the reservations made and the babysitter hired? You lucky lady! For your date night out, be sure to get extra dolled up for your man. I don’t suggest going head-to-toe red and pink, but what I do suggest is wearing a simple, solid-colored sweater dress in white or grey, and dressing it up with Valentines-themed accessories. A pretty pink pashmina will look lovely draped across your shoulders — and keep you warm! A statement, rose-hued cocktail ring will look stunning against your champagne flute, and keep your legs warm with some bold, red tights. Your date will only have eyes for you in such an ensemble!

Maybe you’re more of a cynic when it comes to the holiday. For heaven’s sake, don’t hole up for the night with Ben & Jerry watching reruns of Sex and the City. Instead, get a group of girlfriends together and go out for a night of dancing. Get dolled up in a wrap dress (flattering on any figure), polka-dot tights, and some sassy red heels. Accessorize with a red circle scarf, an exotic clutch, and bright red nails. Give yourself some glam cat eyes and flushed cheeks. Who knows? Maybe you’ll meet a special someone!

Perhaps you’re avoiding an overpriced dinner/crowded movie theater and settling in for a fun family night. No need to get to glam for this, but you can still show some Valentine’s Day spirit. Wear a comfy, oversized sweater with some leggings. Look a little goofy for the kids with some heart-printed socks or a heart scarf. The dollar section at the front of Target has lots of inexpensive, yet fun, Valentines accessories. Play games with the family for your night in — the game of Life is perfect for this holiday. It’ll get you and your family reminiscing about all of life’s milestones!

I think it’s so fun to don those rose-hued glasses for one day of the year and appreciate all things love — and being wined and dined doesn’t hurt, either. I hope you all have a lovely V-Day!

Author bio: Sarah Heckle is a blogger from Indianapolis. She writes a blog called Tulle and Trinkets, and she’s also a fashion contributor at Scarves Dot Net.

Although you’ve already been bundling up this season, winter is here to stay for  awhile! Now is about the time when it’s time to breathe some life back into your winter wardrobe and spice things up for the new year – especially if you’ll have some extra Christmas money to play around with!

Here are some winter trends worth looking into!

[quilted handbags] [buckle leather handbags] [color block handbag] [clutch purses with handle] [scarf] [watch] [riding boots] [socks] [wedge booties]

Boots  have been big this year! Practical AND fashionable, these should be a staple in every woman’s wardrobe. Whether you prefer wedge booties, riding boots, or another variety, they’re definitely hot. Add some tall socks for extra warmth and texture, and if they’re just the right height they’ll add a fun pop or contrast of color. Handbags are another important staple. Quilted handbags, the color blocking trend, and pretty  details like metal clasps and buckles have been popular winter trends.  And don’t forget to add warmth and style with, my favorite winter accessory, the scarf!

[cable knit wrap cardigan] [plaid cape] [classic white button down] [faux fur coat] [colored jeans] [pencil skirt] [pleated skirt] [leggings]

When it comes to foundational pieces of a wardrobe, color and texture are good indications of a season. That means cable knit, fur, wool, and tweed for wintertime. These are classic pieces that have gotten a major highlight on the runways recently. Capes and fur are two trends that I personally love, but would have been wary of wearing before. Once you take the plunge, you’ll be glad you did! Maybe you won’t be comfortable in a full fur coat, but try a vest or a scarf. You may fall in love!

In general, winter trends are giving a huge nod to classic trends of the past, so if you’re lucky enough to have a grandmother who held onto her wardrobe, sneak some classic pieces from her! If not, you’ll find all of  these pieces in mainstream stores at any price point!

Author Bio: I’m a true fashionista at heart, and I love sharing my thoughts on fashion and personal style in my fashion blog. While my love for all things fashion runs deep, my affinity for hoarding purses has  grown as a writer for Handbagheaven.com. I and enjoy sharing fashion and personal style tips and I’ve been eyeing some of these hobo handbags for my next purchase!

Jessica Alba has one of the most versatile styles of any celeb out there right now. She can go from sweet (and very pregnant), to sexy and rocker-chic in a second. Her transformation between styles and trends is effortless, so she’s definitely worth copycatting. But I’ll show you how to do it at a budget you can get down with.

Look 1: Summertime Sweet

Florals are everywhere this season! Jessica plays with feminine and flirty by toning it down with muted neutrals. Her tan messenger bag has a rustic feel and the Handbag Heaven version is almost identical.  She also nods to the 70s with her wooden platform sandals – way to pick up on hot trends, Jess!

[sunglasses: Sunglass Warehouse: Cat Eye Sunglasses : $14.95]

[handbag: Handbag Heaven - Austin Structured Satchel : $48.95]

[dress: Modcloth - Palmy Weather Dress : $50]

[heels: Paris Hilton Liza - Camel Smooth : $95]

Look 2: Classic with a Twist

You’ll never go wrong with a trench. It’s uber classy, always appropriate, and works throughout many seasons. Same goes for the bootcut jeans and a soft and feminine scarf. Each piece in this ensemble contributes a unique layer. The shield sunglasses give her an edge, the handbag plays up the sophistication of the trench, but the yellow in the trench adds a twist.  

[sunglasses: Sunglass Warehouse: Shield Style Sunglasses : $15.95]

[handbag: Handbag Heaven: Julianne Structured Satchel : $46.95]

[trenchcoat: Dorthy Perkins: Stone Double Breasted Mac : $72]

[scarf: Affordable Scarves: Vera Paisley Scarf : $17.95

[jeans: Old Navy: Sweetheart Boot-Cut Jeans : $30]

Look 3: Rocker-Chic

When Jessica Alba isn’t being sweet and sexy, she definitely knows how to vamp it up. This rocker-chic look plays along her darker side, without being too harsh.  The motorcycle denim jacket adds structure to the short dress and tights combo. The all black ensemble is what contributes to her edge, but keeps things understated. Jess, once again, you rock it well.

[sunglasses:

[handbag: Handbag Heaven: Lilly Ruffle Bag : $38.95]

[jacket: Gap: Moto Denim Jacket : $45]

[dress: Warehouse.Co: Animal Bodycon Dress : $48]

[tights: TopShop: Black 50 Denier Opaque Tights : $8]

[boots: Modcloth: Lace in Point Bootie : $50]

Author Bio: I’m a fashion blogger, fashion lover, and I self professed celebrity obsessed guru. When I’m not styling and writing for Handbag Heaven, I enjoy planning my upcoming wedding (under 100 days y’all!), shopping, reading, and spending lots of time with my family.

Vanessa Minnillo, soon-to-be Mrs. Nick Lachey, is a style star in her own right! Always perfectly coiffed and totally pulled together, she’s been grabbing attention since the Nick’s ex (the ever gorgeous Jessica Simpson) dropped out of the picture. This lovely lady has been buzzing with wedding to do’s and bridal showers in an array of effortlessly classy looks. I’ll teach you how to pull off her look at a price your wallet will be happy with!

Look 1: Boho-Beautiful

Vanessa knows how to play with flowy fabrics –perfect for summer. She doesn’t weigh this breezy look down with heavy accessories or too much fuss. Her white tote compliments the flecks of pattern in her dress and this Handbag Heaven version is almost identical.  Vanessa knows how to rock a simple summer look – you’re gorgeous girl!

[sunglasses: Sunglass Warehouse: Oversized Rhinestone Style: $16.95]

[handbag: Handbag Heaven: Broad Ripple Satchel : $53.95]

[dress: Swell: Angie Strapless Printed Maxi : $50]

[sandals: Piperlime: Havianas Slim Season: $19.50]

Look 2: Citrus Splash

Vanessa always looks flawless on the red carpet! Once again, she proves that simple glamour wins every time. Her color choice is flawless and compliments her skin tone perfectly. With the color choice stealing most of the scene, she lets that take center stage with minimal accessories. Copy the look and mix sexy and classic just like this stylish lady!

[handbag: Handbag Heaven: Margaret Rhinestone Clutch: $48.95]

[dress: House of Fraser: Kaliko Jackquard Shift Dress: $50]

[heels: Piperlime: Bandolino Berry: $29.99]

Look 3: Airport Casual

Okay, long flights and airport travel often leave us looking haggard. Vanessa knows how to keep it simple, comfortable, but bright and refreshing with her pop of blue. The neutrals compliment her rugged jeans and blue tee. Her oversized tote stashes all her necessities in a stylish bag – no ugly worn duffle will do! Get your own oversized hobo for toting around your goods!

[handbag: Handbag Heaven: Ellis Oversized Hobo: $55.95]

[sunglasses: Sunglass Warehouse: Oversized Style: $14.95]

[tee shirt: Rue 21: Scoop-neck Slub Tee : $10.99]

[jeans: American Eagle: Skinny Jean: $40]

[flip flops: Tkees: Tkees Foundation Collection Leather Sandal: $44]

[belt: Asos: Pieces Dottu Mock Ostrich Jeans Belt: $15.52]

Author Bio: I’m a fashion blogger, lover of stylish goodies, and I self professed celebrity obsessed guru. When I’m not styling and writing for Handbag Heaven, I enjoy planning my upcoming wedding (under 100 days y’all!), shopping, reading, and spending lots of time with my family.

There are many items that mothers need to purchase to make sure their kids are ready for summer: bathing suits, towels, shorts, sunscreen and sandals. Moms also need to make sure her kids’ summer outfits are complete with sunglasses . However, moms often forget how important it is to protect their own eyes from the summer’s rays! While mothers should keep in mind that their sunglasses needn’t be expensive because Junior might try them on and break them, there are some inexpensive, hip trends for this year that will keep Mom looking fashionable.

1. John Lennon Style

Background

John Lennon made these glasses famous in the 1970s and Dolce and Gabbana, along with Stella McCartney, are bringing them back on the market this year! The round lens can either be rimless or surrounded in a thick plastic frame, and lens colors come in a vast range of tints. Julia Roberts, Lady Gaga and Mary Kate Olsen are huge fans of this style.

Face Shape

This style is best suited for women with heart-shaped, oval or square faces because the circular shape helps to soften sharp jaw lines. Women with round faces should avoid this style as the glasses might make their face appear too round.

Apparel

While “John Lennon” sunglasses work with any fashion, particularly light, floral dresses and well-fitted skirts and tops, this style of the 1970s also works well with bold, retro prints and bright colors. These sunglasses add an aura of fun and sophistication to any party you may be attending!

2. Cat Eye Style

Background

Thanks to Prada, one of the biggest names in the fashion industry, the “Cat Eye” style is back! These sunglasses resemble a gorgeous almond eye shape. Audrey Hepburn made this style famous in the renowned film “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” Models in the Christian Dior, Giles and Jeremy Scott fashion shows all sport some version of this fantastic style.

Face Shape

Like the “John Lennon” style, this ultra-feminine shape from the 1950s and 1960s looks terrific on women with heart-shaped, oval or square faces. They also come in two shapes: a more dramatic arch as was popular in the 1950s or a gentler scoop that models wear on the runways.

Apparel

This style of sunglasses pairs well with formal, informal, modern and vintage clothes. If you are attending a formal event, opt for neutral colors. If you’re taking a day trip to the beach, however, bedazzle your glasses with jewels and colored, trendy frames. These glasses are available in a variety of shades to complement your own personal style.

3. Retro Style

Background

Think big and bold with the “Retro” style. Prada, Stella McCartney, Dolce and Gabbana, and Fendi are lending their keen sense of style to bring back these oversized sunglasses. Since the inspiration for the “Retro” sunglasses come from the retro age between the 1950s and the 1970s, frames come in all colors and patterns.

Face Shape

Because these sunglasses are so large and they cover almost a third of the individual’s face, this style is extremely popular with women who have fair or sensitive skin. For round faces, choose a well arched and geometric frame while oval, heart-shaped and square faces should seek a softer, more subtle frame. Remember that the lighter the tint, the less protection you will get from the sun.

Apparel

The “Retro” style is great for all occasions both formal and informal. You can change your hair, makeup and clothing and get an entirely new look even though your sunglasses are still the same!

Sara Roberts writes for Just Eyewear, a discount eyeglasses and prescription sunglasses online retailer.

 
I have a serious love for all-things-nautical — ironic considering a couple minutes on a boat leaves me green-faced and seasick! But that doesn’t mean I can’t dress like a sailor and enjoy the water from the safety of a pier. Nautical-inspired clothes and accessories are a staple in my summer wardrobe. I love navy, red and white, and I think anchors, sailboats and sea creatures make the best accessories. Perfect for a Fourth of July party, a day at the lake, or just time out in the sun, nautical-inspired pieces are easy to incorporate into your wardrobe.

I picked out a few of my favorite nautical pieces for summer 2011.

1. Silk scarf, $18.95 from Affordable Scarves — This nautical silk scarf has shades of blue and gold with chains and ship wheels. It’s square, so it’s perfect for use as a head scarf or neck scarf — or knot it on the handle of a red handbag!
2. Nautical striped shoulder bag, $43.95 from Handbag Heaven — With stripes, chains, and pretty red details, this shoulder bag is meant to be worn on the boardwalk.
3. Sailboat pendant, $14.99 from Modcloth — A sailboat necklace can add a small touch of nautical to any outfit.
4. Sperry wedges — If I could live in my Sperry boat shoes, I would. But there are some occasions that call for something a little fancier. Luckily, Sperry makes super adorable dress shoes!
5. Red, white, and blue sundress, $72.00 from Topshop — This precious striped dress is perfect for a summer party. Plus, who doesn’t love a dress with pockets?
6. Rope rings, $68.00 from Coach — These stackable, nautical rope rings are the prettiest gold and seafoam green.
7. Anchor and bow tank top, $37.99 from Modcloth — The anchor and star print of this tank top make it the ultimate nautical top. I think the bows on the front are darling as well!

Author bio: Sarah Beckman is a content developer at Affordable Style where she blogs about celebrity style and fashion accessories. Although she’s from landlocked Indiana, she loves to spend summer days at the lake with her family and fiance.

Women spend an extraordinary amount of time and money on their wardrobes. We covet and collect, flaunt and fetter, all for the purposes of looking good. But so often one vital element is overlooked: your lingerie.

 “Foundations” is really a better word because, let’s face it ladies, your underwear is the first thing you put on, the very architecture over which all your best loved clothes go over. Shouldn’t those things be as cherished as the rest of your wardrobe? Every woman deserves a basic collection of well-fitting, carefully selected underpinnings. They provide a platform for you to feel fabulous, while making the rest of your look flawless and flattering.

Lingerie, like many things in life, follows one unavoidable rule of the universe: you get what you pay for. Good lingerie is worth investing in, even if it’s only a few key pieces. That $20 bra that’s been through the wash 50+ times, well, ladies, that’s just not going to cut it. I’m not advocating spending a fortune on a whole new trousseau of lacy treasures, but every woman should carve out a little budget for some good essentials. Here are my top picks:

1. The T-Shirt Bra. Now ubiquitous by name, a t-shirt bra is one with smooth cup that almost disappears underneath even clingy knits, like t-shirts. Most you’ll find will have a little bit of lining for—eh-hem—“headlight” control. Go for a neutral color for the most versatility and be sure the fit is right. Clueless about a good fit? Head to a specialty store or a the lingerie department to find a fit specialist who can talk you through the basics and get you measured properly. (For an at-home guide to finding the right size check out: http://www.shop-underwear.com/sizeguide) You want a cup that doesn’t pinch in or gap too much, combined with a band that’s snug but comfortable. Once you’ve got your size, you can choose your unique style. You’ll find everything from the most basic to some with touches of lace or other embellishments.

2. The Seamless Panty. NOTHING is less flattering than VPL (visible panty lines, for the abbreviationally challenged). Really nothing ruins an outfit, that new pencil skirt or those fitted pants, like a glaring declaration of an ill-fitting panty. That’s why every girl absolutely needs a few pairs designed to be invisible. New technologies in fabrics have yielded an array of paper-thin, super-soft microfibers that lay smooth and flat. Plus, with the advancements of laser cutting, the edges are smooth too, ensuring a seamless look. The original and (in my personal opinion) the best version of these are from a line aptly named Commando. Go for at least a few pair in nude or black for the most versatility.

3. The Jaw-Dropper Set. Now this could fall under “indulgence” for some people, but in my mind it is an absolute necessity. Every woman, no matter her age or relationship status, should have one bra and panty that’s just drop-dead sexy. More importantly, one that makes YOU feel like a goddess. The go-to, easily found solution is usually black and lacy, but let your personal tastes be your guide. Maybe bright blue or pale pink is more your style? Go with it. Let yourself have a little fun at the lingerie store and try a few things on that may not have the most practical applications, but make your heart flutter when you look at them.

For those of you who must hold usefulness paramount, look for something that you would be able to wear underneath most of your wardrobe. Sometimes you will be surprised what actually doesn’t show underneath clothing at all, so be sure to try it on. All the better, because then it’s almost like a secret weapon: under wraps, but sure to pack a wallop once your favorite admirer catches a glimpse of you in it.

Even the most pragmatic of us can surely justify making a little room in the clothing budget for pieces like these: ones you’ll reach for almost every day that make you look amazing, help clothing fit better and, most importantly, make you feel like the feminine wonder that you are. After all, you deserve it!

Elizabeth Tigar is the owner of Austin, TX, lingerie boutique Underwear. Visit www.shop-underwear.com to upgrade your underwear.

Start your Day off with a Relaxing Cup of Tea.

Try to set 5 to 10 minutes aside to enjoy some “mom-me” time.  This may involve waking up a bit earlier than the rest of the family but it will ensure you get some quiet time before your day begin.

Take a nice long bubble bath.  

On most days, moms don’t have the luxury of enjoying the pleasures of a nice long bubbly but on today you get the pass.  This may however involve locking the door and keeping out intruders (meaning kids and spouse).  Grab your favorite CD, light some aromatherapy candles and enjoy!

      Attending Church

Most church’s honor all mothers on Mother’s Day.  This is a good way to express your love for your mom, wife or grandmother by attending church and worshiping together.

Go To Brunch

Having a meal prepared for you is always a treat and gives you a day out of the kitchen.   Take Mom out on this day.  She deserves it!

Laugh out Loud

Watch your favorite DVD, the funnier the better and enjoy the moment while curling up with your favorite blanket and some popcorn.  Laughter is always good and it relieves stress. 

                                                                                                                           Get Some Sleep

After it’s all said and done.  The one gift that mom be appreciate more is the gift of sleep.  Remind the kids that this is Mom’s special day and she will be retiring in a little bit earlier this evening.  This is where you come in Dad, get the kiddos in bed a bit early so mom can enjoy her some beauty sleep.

Every day is technically “mother’s day” for us moms, so don’t wait another year to celebrate, care for yourself and enjoy simple life moments.   You deserve it to yourself.

 Happy Mother’s Day!

We already know you’re Fabulous now tell Everyone else why.   Lets face it, we are all divas in our own little way but some of us just flaunt it more than others.    But the bottom line is… we are all girls and girls like to have fun.  Every  now and then,  we must take that Superwoman cape off and let our hair hang loose, have a little fun to relax, relate and release.    It’s time for our own little Happy Hour.  You know the one, the hour where girlfriends get together, laugh, bond and get to know each other better.  So that’s what we want to do here but in Diva Style.  I ask the Questions… You answer.

It will be our own little Happy Hour amongst friends.    I will introduce a new blogger each week, ask a few questions in hopes that you get to know a little more about the blogger.  We hope that you would stop by, say Hi, leave a comment and add to the convo!  We also encourage you to hope on over to the Featured Bloggers blog once you’re done here too!

Would you like to be a Featured Happy Hour Diva of the Week?   Guys can play along too.  But they would have the title of Hunk of the Week.

 In order to be Featured, here’s what you have to do:

 Fill out the Form ..Wait .. and See if you get Picked

Divas Use this form                                                                                                             

        Hunks Use this form

1. Become a follower of Cocktails with Mom-  I want to feature my faithful supporters!

2) Link to Cocktails with Mom – from your blog on the day you are being featured!

3. Become an email or rss  subscriber - so that you want miss your Featured Day!

 It’s that simple! ladies happy hour button

While this series is set up for  “FUN” and “ENTERTAINMENT”, it is also meant as a means to SUPPORT one another through blogging, motherhood, friendships and sister-hood while having a little fun at the same time.  So Stop by and DISCOVER a new blog today!