Under $100 in Harper’s Bazaar US September

This week I finally got around to reading – twice – my September issue of Harper’s Bazaar. It was quite possibly the most content rich of my September issues; I know I did enjoy the photo spreads the most.

I am sad to report that there were no items under $100 featured in their spreads and editorials. All qualifying pieces were on the pages with numerous items slapped on, the pages I find least exciting.

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Again we saw the Ann Taylor Loft Trench Dress, $98; Vogue featured it in their September issue, as well. This dress is shaping up to be quite an autumn favorite, and why shouldn’t it be?

My favorite happens to be the cheapest: The AE Raglan T, $19.50. I am going to scoop it up in “Smoke Heather” as soon as possible. It is most definitely a year-round basic that will be fun to spice up with mega accessories and skinny pants.

Army green and military-inspired pieces are all the rage this season, and I love it. Banana Republic skirt, $59.50, and H&M jacket, $49.95.

The Animal Print Plunge, Pt. 1: Shoes & Accessories

Recently I have been adamant about stocking up on basics with an animal twist. I’m not sure how or when my recent obsession was sparked, but I am in love. I am organic when it comes to animal prints, which means leopard, cheetah and zebra in black, brown, gray and white.

A small dose of animal print goes a long way. It’s certainly not for everybody, but it can be for most. If you’re worried about taking the animal print plunge, ensure fashion safety by following these rules:

1. Limit your ensemble to one animal print piece.
2. Accessorize with animal prints; if opting for apparel, ensure the piece is classic and simple in design.
3. Avoid bright hues of pink, blue, etc.

Below are my current favorites; I would personally wear all of them. Fortunately there are a plethora of affordable animal print options this season: scarves for $10, flats for $30, etc. Talk about a goldmine of attainable pieces!

My Picks: The Finishing Touches

Lauren by Ralph Lauren Leather Stretch Belt, $38 * ; Route 66 Animal Print Oblong Scarf, $9.99 * ; Satin Animal Print Headband, $3.80 *.

My Picks: The Bags & Clutches

Gia Milani Animal Print Tote, $34.99 * ; Metallic Exotic Animal Wallet, $7.50 * ; Melie Bianco Leopard Clutch, $39.99 * ; Treviso Animal Design Zip Top Tote, $9.99 (clearance) *.

My Picks: The Footwear

Nine West ‘Studit’ Platform Pump, $89.95 * ; Leopard Rain Boots, $24.99 * ; AE Leopard Ballet Flat, $29.95 *. Cheetah print banner from istockphoto.

Under $100 in Elle US September

Like so many fashion lovers, I am ravenous when it comes to a fresh fashion magazine in my mailbox. With September issues arriving, I find myself overwhelmed by the spectrum of green, beige orange and brown splashed throughout their contents. What’s on these pages makes my mouth water so much that I wish I could ditch Southern California to spend autumn in the Midwest.

Sadly, however, a great bulk of the pieces in magazines is unattainable. A $4,300 Louis Vuitton skirt, anybody? With chilly weather fabrics, too, comes the fashion price boost. I’ve always had a difficult time finding quality affordable cool-weather pieces. So here I am highlighting my favorite fall finds from the September issue of Elle magazine; all pieces are under $100. My personal favorite is the Anthropologie skirt, as mustard never fails to evoke thoughts of vintage pieces. We can kiss unattainable good-bye. Enjoy!

1. Anthropologie Marston Sweater Skirt, $98; 2. Aldo Harvley bag, $45; 3. Banana Republic Cotton Waffle-Knit V-neck, $78.95 (+ Haircalf belt, $79.50); 4. H&M bangles, $8; 5. H&M belted wool coat, $80; 6. Guess sequined pump, $90; 7. Express Side-Tab Editor Original Pant, $59.50.