One of this season's hottest trends is utility chic. Think slim cargo pants, fitted work shirts, and leather messenger bags in shades of olive, khaki and gray. On your feet metallic sandals are the perfect complement to a utility chic ensemble. Whether you are a high-heeled girl or prefer to wear pretty flats, there are many options for metallic shoes this spring. We've rounded up our favorite for you to browse. It's time to "forward march" into springtime dressing!

A gladiator is the perfect complement to this season's skinny cargo pant. A flat sandal like Vince Camuto's Bach (upper left, $119.95 - this and all shoes from Shoebuy.com). This fashion forward style has a covered ankle and oval gunmetal grey buckle detail. A statement making sandal, the Jessica Simpson Koolia (upper right, $88.95) features a stacked platform heel with wide gold metallic straps. Up the front is a zip closure with stud detail, peep toe and tapered heel. A gladiator is on this season's must-buy list. The BCBGirls "Peter" (bottom left, $55.45) is an affordable and stylish gold metallic gladiator sandal. It is accented with coins and has an adjustable ankle strap. Another style from Jessica Simpson is the "Scilla" which features a high heel and pewter distressed suede metallic finish (right, $73.95). This ankle strap design includes a tie lace at front and wide banded straps.

Enter to win a $75 gift card from Shoebuy. Go the official TheFind Spring Fling Shoe Giveaway contest page here to ENTER!

SAVE on springs cutest shoes with an exclusive Shoebuy coupon code for fans of TheFind. Coupon expires 3/29/10.]]> From our friends at College Candy:

It’s 8am and you stumble into your bathroom only to look in the mirror, horrified at how sick you look! You can’t miss any more classes (damn you hangovers for making me take an absence when now I really need it), but you also can’t show your face in public looking like this.

What do you do?

No worries, there are tips to help you sick folk (and those of you who are just really tired and can’t stand the thought of putting on full makeup for an hour lecture). A few makeup tricks will have you looking less contagious and more flirtatious in no time.

]]>

LnA at Gilt Fuse

Emanuel Ungaro and Christian Lacroix, Bric's Luggage, Bensoni, Aviva Stanoff, LnA, Jewelry by Coralia Leets, Phaidon Press and more at Gilt Groupe

Calvin Klein, Color Story, and Metrokane Boutiques at Rue La La

7 For All Mankind Women, Men, Kids and Kenneth Jay Lane Sales at Billion Dollar Babes

MD Skincare, Rebelette Girls, TRUNK Ltd., Stitch's Women + Men, Melissa + Doug Toys, Conscious Jewelry, TOCS Watches and more at Hautelook

Monteverde and Delta Pens and Sharp LCD/DVD Combo sale at RowNine

Anne Klein New York, Nyll Italia, Priorities, Lori Bonn, Latico, oh la la Cheri and Kyocera sales at Ideeli

Lauren Hansen, Yumi, Language, and Moments at Beyond the Rack

Madelyn Jordon, Greenhorn Trading, Distinctive Designs and Thomas Lee at One Kings Lane

SK1N Probiotics and Comptoir Sud Pacifique at Editors' Closet

Amrita Singh Sandals and Joia De Majorca Jewelry at The Top Secret

*This post contains affiliate links. See our disclosures for more info*]]>

Macramé, a once popular form of textile-creation, uses many knots to create intricate designs. You probably won't show up much in current home decorating magazines, but you will see it in fashion. We are seeing macramé on everything from shoes, to dresses, to jewelry, and are loving the fresh spin on an old favorite.

1) ASOS Knotted Macrame Dress, $71.80
2) Diane von Furstenberg Liza Crochet Macramé Dress, $565
3) Beaded Necklace with Macramé, $18
4) Lanvin Bi-Color Wedge, $687.24
5) Knotted Beauclerk Shopper, $129.95
6) Undrest Halter One Piece, $168
7) Vanessa Bruno Macramé Belt, $251
8) Elizabeth and James Gypsy Macramé Sandal, $225. Free Shipping on shoes!

*This post contains some affiliate links. See our disclosures for more info*]]>

Levi's knows how you love your skinnies! That's why they are offering $10 off all purchases from their skinny denim collection through 3/18! Each flattering style is perfect dressed up with heels or down with flats.

Save $10 on Skinny Denim from Levis. Plus, you'll enjoy Free Shipping with purchases of $100 or more!

*This post contains affiliate links. See our disclosures for more info*]]>From our friends at College Candy:

It’s okay girls, count to ten and breathe. I know we all have huge under eye circles, our legs haven’t been shaved in a good week and these study munchies are starting to catch up with our love handles. But on the other side of this pit of fire that is midterms is a glorious week-long party fest.

The lucky of the bunch are going to spend this week soaking up the sun and downing frozen cocktails. And obviously the perfect beach attire is a necessity. But it’s so depressing opening up the catalogs and realizing that all the suits will cost you a couple weeks of happy hours, and are any of us really willing to give that up?

Luckily, we don’t have to. Here are five suits that are not only adorable, but totally affordable on a college girl’s budget. (And you can get them all in a week or less!)

Snake Ring Bandeau Top and Ruched-Side Bottom from Alloy ($19.90 each)

The snakeskin print is a fun alternative to the typical flowers or polka dot print that fills the beach. And the peep-hole top with tie at the neck is the perfect blend of sexy and comfortable.

Mix & Match Ruffled Tankini from Old Navy ($19.50 and $16.50)

When it comes to swimsuits, Old Navy is the place to be. Not only because their stuff is cheap, but also because they have a great variety of pieces that you can mix and match as you please. I love the adorable ruffle detailing and the bright color of this set, but I also love that I can get another set (maybe a bikini? maybe a different color/pattern?) and mix them all together to create a ton of different options. And when I’m hitting the beach every day, a little variety goes a long way.

Plaid Halter Bandeau Bikini and Side-Tie Bikini Bottom from American Eagle ($24.50 each)

I am absolutely in love with this candy color combo; the bubble gum pink and baby blue suit reminds me of sexy Little Bo Peep.

Ruffled Triangle Bikini Set from Victoria’s Secret ($36.00)

Victoria’s Secret gets the award for best swimsuits, hand’s down. But their prices aren’t always as friendly. Tip? Buy from the 2009 collection! Last year I splurged, and this year I cried when I saw my expensive designer swimsuit on sale for a quarter of the price. I am loving this peach colored string bikini with the demure ruffles; it is total sex kitten. (Though I don’t recommend going to buy flowers without a cover-up.)

Mossimo Shirred One Piece Swimsuit From Target ($34.99)

With all the stick thin models flaunting their six-packs and double D’s in every swimsuit catalog it’s easy to forget that not everyone wants to wear two inch triangles over each nipple. This one-piece suit provides the coverage while still having sexy details: a flirty skirted bottom, halter-top, and slimming ruching. Plus the color will look H-O-T on that hard earned tan.]]>

1) Blazer: Vince 3/4 Boyfriend Jacket, $440
2) Bangles: Alex and Ani Lustre Bead 21 Expandable Wire Bangles Set, $348
3) Chain Strap Bag: Crackled Suedette Shoulder Bag, $15.80
4) Long Skirt: AMEN Long Skirt, $215
5) Ballet Flats: Seychelles Boy Short Flat Maryjane, $78.68

1) Blazer: ZOA Classic Cropped Blazer, $194
2) T-Shirt Dress: Splendid Modal Jersey Pocket T-Shirt Dress, $110
3) Scarf: Vince Solid Fringe Scarf, $98
4) Leggings: Fab Leggings, $4.50
5) Necklace: Romantic Cluster Clock Necklace, $28
6) Ankle Boots: Modern Vintage Vanessa Ankle Boot, $227

1) Sheer Blouse: Mesh Lace Top, $59
2) Skirt: Lauren by Ralph Lauren Holly Buckled Pencil Skirt, $89.50
3) Cage Heels: Calvin Klein Dylan Sandals, $119
4) Ladylike Satchel: Jessica Simpson Downtown Satchel, $65.99
5) Oversized Sunglasses: Fendi Square Frame Sunglasses, $275

1) Leather Motorcycle Jacket: Milly Leather Motorcycle Jacket, $645
2) Striped Top: A.L.C. Striped Boat Neck Tee with Snaps, $124
3) Cropped Baggy Trousers: 3.1 Phillip Lim Triple Pleated Tapered Trouser, $350
4) Shoes: Marc by Marc Jacobs Mesh Strap Pump, $380
5) Skinny Belt: Peter Jensen Classic Skinny Belt, $64

*This post contains some affiliate links. See our disclosures for more info*

]]> But while we were interested in the Academy's movie choices, we were really watching for the fashion. It's always fun to see what the stars are wearing. This year, the red carpet was full of gorgeous gowns that epitomized Hollywood glamour. We saw lots of strapless dresses, lots of sparkle and lots of ruffles. Loose curls and soft updos were the hair trends. While makeup was sheer and pretty, accentuated by the occasional bright red lip.

Our Favorites:

1) Carey Mulligan: Our pick for Best-Dressed, Best Actress nominee Carey Mulligan wore a fabulous black Prada creation. Tiny knives and scissors dangled with plenty of sparkles on this strapless dress; while a train and black heels completed the look. Although the actress commented that she did not like her hair, we think the cut went perfectly with the outfit.

2) Elizabeth Banks wore a stunning grey chiffon Versace gown. A fitted drop-waist bodice met a waterfall of ruffles. We loved her elegant earrings and sparkly narrow headband.

3) Rachel McAdams: This lovely presenter was simply stunning in her painterly Elie Saab dress. Muted blues and greys covered the sweeping gown. This was one of our favorites because of both the ethereal style, but the beautiful print. She kept her accessories to a minimum which only added to the beauty of her look.

4) Demi Moore: Demi's strapless Atelier Versace gown was made up of peachy ruffles that flattered her tan skin.

Least favorites:

1) Zoe Saldana: The purple ombre Givenchy Haute Couture by Riccardo Tisci gown will either be loved or hated. We loved the color, it looked great on the Avatar actress. But the ruffles were over the top and seemed to contrast too much with the bodice of her dress.

2) Charlize Theron: Probably the most talked about dress on Twitter, Charlize Theron's Dior gown had a pretty column shape, but ended up being a miss with it's oddly placed satin flowers. They made it hard to notice her pretty makeup - a nude eye and red lipstick.

3) Jennifer Lopez exuded confidence in her powder pink Armani Privé gown. The awkward folds and puffiness were too much for us, and did not pair well with her messy bun.

4) Maggie Gyllenhaal While we applaud Miss Gyllenhaal for wearing a print, the dress simply did not work. Though we are normally huge fans of Dries van Noten, this gown appeared wrinkled and unflattering.

Trend: Gold

1) Sandra Bullock: We were thrilled that Sandra Bullock won for best actress for her role in The Blind Side. She is a classic beauty who was glowing with happiness at the Oscars. We weren't in love with her Gold Marchesa dress, but it did have some pretty lace details that we liked. Her hair and makeup were flawless.

2) Cameron Diaz: In a gold Oscar de la Renta gown and dripping in Cartier diamonds, Cameron Diaz exuded glamour. Her 40's inspired makeup complimented the look well.

3) Miley Cyrus: Miss Miley is usually not on our best-dressed list, but this time we were on the fence. The overall look was too old for her, she looks better in something more youthful. The bustier on the strapless Jenny Packham gown appeared too tight. However, the dress scored more points with us as it sparkled onstage.

Trend: Red

1) Penelope Cruz wore a ruby red Donna Karan gown seemed made for the striking actress. The strapless pleated dress flattered her figure, and was totally appropriate for the occasion. She looked amazing and pulled off the messy updo perfectly.

2) Sigourney Weaver Avatar actress Sigourney Weaver wore a deep crimson Grecian-style dress by Lanvin, accented with a black ribbon belt. The one-shouldered gathered dress was adorned with a beautiful jewel-encrusted brooch. She looked radiant.

3) Jane Seymour jumped on the red trend as well with her strapless red column dress. Softly curled hair and a long diamond pendant completed the look.

Trend: Pink

1) Queen Latifah looked fantastic at this year's Oscars. Her dusty rose one-shouldered gown was done up in plenty of jewels. Simple accessories and clutch completed the look.

2) Vera Farmiga: Best Supporting Actress nominee Vera Farmiga is a natural beauty. She wore a bright pink ruffled Marchesa gown and jewelry by Fred Leighton. Her messy updo was on trend. She was fabulous in her role in Up in the Air, but unfortunately, her Oscar dress was not. It looked uncomfortable, and the ruffles were too over done, especially with such a bold color.

3) Anna Kendrick: Another Best Supporting Actress nominee, Anna Kendrick, glowed in a blush pink Elie Saab gown. Gathered soft ruffles and lace accented by a flower detail, made this goddess-like gown a beautiful creation.
Trend: One-Shoulder

1) Molly Ringwald: An all-time favorite, we loved her purple one-shoulder gown. The brooch at her waist and bracelet were a little much, but the overall look was lovely. While we saw more strapless dresses this year, Molly proved that the one-shoulder look is still going strong.

2) Tina Fey: Tina Fey wore her sheer leopard print Michael Kors well with simple accessories and a flattering cinched waist. We got a kick out of her presentation speech with Robert Downey Jr. Much like peers Queen Latifah and Sigourney Weaver, Tina's one-shouldered look was perfectly on-trend.

What did you think of this year's Academy Awards? Who did you think was the best and worst dressed?

]]>

Sample Sale Shoppers: get excited for the launch of something amazing! Monday, March 8th, MyNines.com will open it's virtual doors to fashion-obsessed web-shoppers everywhere. MyNines.com makes it easier to navigate online sample sales, by gathering products from various sales in one location.

Designer sample sale sites are fabulous, and allow the budget-conscious to enjoy designer goods. But, keeping track of all the sites can be confusing! MyNines is a free service that allows users to search for products by designer, category, highest discounts and most viewed. Find items from your favorite sample sale sites, all in one place. Products are categorized in Fashion, Men, Travel, Beauty and Wines, and new sites are being added each week.

Sign up for your account here.

]]>

College Candy is giving away a gift bag worth $200 of amazing Tarte Cosmetics! All you have to do is nominate who you think will win for Best Picture, Best Actor in a Leading Role, Best Actress in a Leading Role, Best Actor in a Supporting Role, Best Actress in a Supporting Role, and Best Director. Leave your votes in the comments section of this post on CollegeCandy.com and you could win!

ideeli is doing an Oscar Style giveaway! You can win one of two Oscar-worthy prizes. The Oscar at Home prize includes a cashmere Ralph Lauren throw, yummy Vosges chocolates and a beautiful Jo Malone candle. Or, the Oscar Night Out prize contains a studded cross-body bag by Alexis Hudson, jewelry by Badgley Mischka and Jenlari, and gorgeous MAC. Entering is easy! Just click the Enter Giveaway button on the ideeli site. If you are not already a member, here is an invite!

]]>