Fashion Me Fabulous

-- Get Your First Look at McQ for Target --Vote on Polka Dots , Questionable Shoes , and What You'll Spend on Earrings --Check Out Couture Week Coverage Here & Here --Tips for Organizing Your Small Closet and Wearing a Skirt --Get Coats for Under $100 , Mary Janes on Sale , and a Bargain Military Jacket --Visit This Week's Vintage & Etsy Shops

Project Design is our own friendly competition where we put together collection of independent designers for you to rate on your very own imaginary runway. Polka Dots are happy. They can transform an average item into something absolutely adorable. I can't help fun gravitate toward things with cute little dots. They are just so fun. Which polka dots put a smile on your face? Maroon polka dot ruffled top by mariapozodesign Vetements Polka Dot Bow Necklace by paraphernalia Holly Dress by myblackdress Polka Dot Ring by bwsilver Polka Dot Earrings by leroylovesmabel mochi mochi necklace by Homako poll by twiigs.com

Here at FMF we are giddy over the upcoming collaboration between Alexander McQueen are Target. It combines two things Jael and I love, (Alexander McQueen & Target!). Also, this is our chance to afford McQueen's clothing. If you want to start picking out the pieces you'll be buying, Nylon has pictures up to browse . I think I'll be buying this look, and I hope those shoes are avialable too. WANT IT ALL!

Jean Paul Gaultier's runway promoted one of my favorite fashion looks: pinstripes with a delicate, feminine print. He had high-waisted pants, suspenders, lingerie elements, lace, sheer fabrics, softly geometric designs, and monochrome dominated, much to my glee. His menswear-inspired looks are a testament to how graceful the style can be. Christian Lacroix also paid homage to menswear with pieces inspired by matadors and soldiers. The complete collection wasn't cohesive, but even the breaks from theme were lovely. It's hard to argue with so many colors, ruffles and embroidery. Plus, I want that polka dot coat!

Forever 21 is selling this uber preppy, pink-tone, a-line skirt for $22.80 . Initially, all I could think to wear with it was pearls and a cardigan, but I thought I'd experiment with its versatility. Continuing with the preppy idea, choose soft, ladylike fabrics for all the pieces -- lace top, cashmere cardigan, kid leather shoes. The colors should stay neutral or try to match the skirt. Country Club - by Fashion Me Fabulous on Polyvore.com For a casual summer look, wear it with a simple white tank, thick black sandals and layers of black chains. Casual - by Fashion Me Fabulous on Polyvore.com To make the skirt playful and funky, try to add more cool colors. Of course, you've got to be pretty confident to pull off a color riot. Color Riot - by Fashion Me Fabulous on Polyvore.com

The sexy secretary look is a classic. It's a mix of demure pieces, sexy items and a figure-hugging fit. The high heels are also a must. The monochromatic palette also have a silver screen feel to it. This entire look come from Forever 21 and costs only $131.09. $150 Challenge: Sexy Secretary - by Fashion Me Fabulous on Polyvore.com Pictured: (Clockwise from top left) Dolman Open Cardigan, $19.80 Satin Lace Corset, $19.80 Martina Fur Trim Jacket, $15.99 Quilted Shoulder Bag, $20.80 Fab Fishnet Tights, $3.50 Tribute Platform Pumps, $20.80 Exec Wool Blend Skirt, $19.80 Opaque Jewel Earrings, $3.80 Tribal Pendant Necklace, $6.80

I love haute couture. It's breathtaking design and craftsmanship. During fashionably conservative times, it dares to make you giggle and gasp. Best of all, it demands that only the boldest of women can dare to wear it. Since couture doesn't really dictate trends, and unless you have several thousand dollars laying around and a posh event to attend, it's not anything more for us than pretty, pretty pictures. Here are the looks I loved so far. John Galliano's inspiration for the Christian Dior show was Flemish painters, and I can see it strongly in the hats and jackets. Love the volume in the skirts and structure in the tops. The floral painting on the gowns is gorgeous, especially when it pops up as a peek-a-boo lining. Givenchy's show was also inspired by paintings, turn of the century this time. This is most clear in the mutton sleeves. The pastel palette isn't my thing, but I really like the gowns. Sharp shoulders, sleek skirts and floral prints at Armani Priv...

Two of my college roommates are six feet tall. They struggle to find tops that overlap their pants and reach their wrists. Well, girls, I've done some shopping for you. Here are tall blouses that will fit your arms and tunics to cover your bellies. Top: teal modal top, Eddie Bauer $44.50 white ruffle bib blouse, Banana Republic $59 pink smocked blouse, J.C. Penney $24.99 Bottom: blue stripe blouse, Eddie Bauer $49.50 red blouse, J. Crew $59.50 Top: polka dot balloon sleeve top, Newport News $19 beige ruffle trim top, Urban Outfitters $58 black gauzy peasant top, Max Studio $148 white studded mesh tunic, Forever 21 $29.80 Bottom: yellow silk tunic, Banana Republic $34.99 blue cashmere blend sweater, Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent, Bluefly $66.99 grey cashmere cowl-neck sweater, Prive, Dillard's $83.58 blue scarf draped top, Forever 21 $19.80

Shop: Cocotte Couture Specialty: Clothes, mostly dresses, skirts and shorts Why We Love It: The clothing is bold and well constructed, yet still versatile and simple. Prices: Dresses & Jumpsuits are around $200-$300; Skirts and Shorts run about $50-$150. More Info: There is a sale on the several items right now. Also, visit www.cocottecouture.com , to see full collection and learn more about the clothing. Favorite Items: Iris Peacock Blue Silk Dress $195 , and Mona Denim Minidress/Jumper $175 (pictured)

While hunting for Mary Janes to wear with knee socks , becca tripped over these questionable platforms from Poetic Licence . The black with dark leopard print and the red with tonal print can certainly work with the right outfit, but the blue ones with silver details... Are they rock and roll cool or band bimbo trashy?

My husband and I just moved, and while we have much more space in our bungalow than in the apartment, the closets are considerably smaller. Previously, we had a walk-in closet with one four-foot rail for long garments, and two four-foot rails for short garments. There were shelves above each rail. In the center of the closet, we had two shoe racks, six shelves and two baskets. Our new closet has two rails less than three feet long that hold long garments, three double hooks in the center of the closet, and shelves above the rails. Our first step was to make better use of our dresser. I removed from the closet any top that doesn't wrinkle and put it in a drawer. If you don't have a dresser, you can build one to suit your needs using the itso system from Target. I just bought one of their collapsible boxes to hold my old band tees, but I'm thinking of getting a few more boxes for packing jammies, and summer gear in. The current box is sitting on my shelf, making better use o...

Where: Skivvy LuLu Vintage on Etsy What: Dresses! Dresses! Dresses! and coats When: Primarily 60s and 70s with some 80s How Much: $20-$50 for most items, more for rare and designer finds 1960s long-sleeved mini dress $44

When it comes to earrings, I wish I could say save. I see so many cute, quirky pairs of earrings at Target or For Love 21. I would love to wear them, and wouldn't really mind when I fell apart since they cost about $5 and are a lot of fun. I would recommend that trendy earrings be a save, if possible. However, all of my earrings have to cost a lot. My ears are sensitive, or just picky, I guess, so I have to wear gold earrings. I hate that this keeps me from wearing fun, cheap earrings. It does mean I will someday splurge on some classic and simple earrings so I don't have to go around with nothing in my ears. Those kinds of earrings, like basic hoops, are worth a bit of a splurge. Also, I am considering buying gold/white gold earring wires at a jewelry supply store so I can switch out wires on cheap jewelry. This way I'll still be able save on the funky stuff. Are earrings a save or splurge for you? Pictured: Baroness Earrings, Forever 21, $3.80

Think you know who will wear who to the Oscar's? Make your predictions in the Haute Pursuit game on style.com. You don't have to be correct to win, but guessing puts you in the drawing. You can print your guesses and challenge your friends. Consider it Fantasy Football for the female set. The contest is open to U.S. resident over 18. Your last day to enter is February 22.

This Whitney Kros military jacket has been reduced to $78 from $260 at Shopbop, which is a major deal. With its classic looks, awesome buttons, and chic contrast piping, this jacket is sure to stay in style. I see it adding edge to super girly skirts and dresses, or a little funk to office attire. Of course, it would be great to just throw on with jeans for an easy, chic look for the weekend. It is still available in four sizes and is final sale only.

Did your winter coat just die? Need a new one for next year? Winter gear is on clearance because stores want us to snap up sundresses and bikinis. I just looked at the frozen white mountains outside, and think the stores are crazy. For those of you who are sane, here are some deals on winter coats. Top: black trench, ECI, Dillard's $84.60 belted grey plaid coat, Victoria's Secret $99 red short puffer, Kenneth Cole, Bluefly $59.99 apple green portrait collar coat, Newport News $69 black swing coat, Vava, Revolve Clothing $98 Bottom: navy short trench, Gap $29.99 black funnel neck puffer, Joyrich, Revolve Clothing $90 yellow wool coat, J.Crew $99.99 high shine coat, French Connection $89.99 teal coat with faux fur collar, Isaac Mizrahi for Target $45.49

These Kenneth Cole REACTION Women's Party Bell-a Mary Janes are on sale for $48.92 from $88.95 on Endless. They are cute, classic and look pretty comfy. They also come in three great colors, berry to add little sweetness to the wardrobe, black for those wanting a basic, and mustard to spice things up a little. They have limited sizes and quantities left so hurry if you want them. Oh, and they would look cute with knee socks .

-- I've rounded up some fabulous pencil skirts for work. -- becca can get you packed for a beach vacation for less than $300 . -- So far, these ankle boots are a loathe . -- What do you think of becca's black lipstick ? -- Vintage glasses are a great way to add personality to your everyday look. -- I'm searching for the perfect pair of knee-high black boots . -- becca has some suggestions for wearing knee socks . -- Would you wear a vintage night gown as a funky dress?

Project Design is our own friendly competition where we put together collection of independent designers for you to rate on your very own imaginary runway. I love ruffles. I love collars. I love dress. I love dress with ruffly collars. They can very royal or rather circus-y. I also like that many of these can be worn with a jacket or sweater and you won't hide the ruffles. Which dress ruffles your feathers (in a good way)? Babydoll Mini Smock Dress w/ Detachable Collar by MaisyBrownReproRetro Ruffle Bib Dress by lizarietz Black Silk Puffy Sleeve Dress by hollystalder French Decadence Bubble Dress by bunnymassacre Scarlet Circus Dress by desirapesta poll by twiigs.com

-- Sterling silver jewelry from Callie Seymour Designs is 20% off for a limited time. -- Lacquered flower jewelry from Baby White Elephant is on sale through Valentine's Day. -- Coryell Design has reduced the prices of her lovely beaded jewelry 20% off through February. -- A weekly sale has put several pairs of silver earrings under $20 at Coastal Treasures . -- Jen Jewelry 's beautiful bead and wire jewelry is all on sale. Indigo Girl earrings from Jen Jewelry $22

I love the combination of pale peach and black. The use of silk and sheer is especially alluring as it has a slight lingerie feel. Victoria's Secret has a sweet a-line in that style on sale from $148 to $29.99. The cut is comfortable and forgiving. It's certainly a 3-seasons skirt and a great buy.

Work has (finally) been picking up, but I can't stay in my cozy cold-weather gear lest people think I'm a teenager. While some people find skirts too chilly for January, they serve me fine paired with knee boots and heavy tights. This is a great time to shop for such a wardrobe staple as many stores are holding clearance sales. Hear are my picks for great winter work skirts. Top: silver coated linen, ADAM, Goldyn $192.50 red tiered skirt, Robert Rodriguez, Nordstrom $197.90 high waisted faux leather, Urban Outfitters $88 black and white wallpaper print, White House $88 Bottom: green tweed, Express $59.50 side seam ruffle, Aqua, Bloomingdale's $78 red black and white tweed, Corey Lynn Calter, Goldyn $157 dark plaid tweed, Rebecca & Drew $135.45 brown bow detail, Victoria's Secret $39.50

Some of you out there may be lucky enough to escape the blustery winds for beautiful beaches on a winter vacation. However, such vacations are not cheap and no one wants to cut back the relaxation budget to buy clothes for the trip. Also, those extra airline luggage fees can be killer so packing light is a must. This vacation wardrobe is built on cute basics and that can mix and match to last the whole trip. The whole thing costs only $297.02 so you'll have money in your pocket and room in your suitcase for plenty of souvenirs. $300 Challenge: Warm Vacation Wardrobe - by Fashion Me Fabulous on Polyvore.com Pictured: Look 1 - Breezy Dress Zip-up Sweater Jacket, Forever 21, $27.80 Daffodil Sun Dress, Target, $19.99 Mini Shoulder Bag, Forever 21, $13.80 Canvas Wedges, Target, $27.99 Look 2 - Vacation Chic Knit Flowered Tank Top, Forever 21, $19.80 Wide Leg Linen Pants, Forever 21, $27.80 Stand Your Ground Tote, Target, $12.99 Patent Ballet Flats, Forever 21, $8.50 Look 3 - Short, S...

When the mercury dips below zero and the snow piles up at my door, I just want to stay bundled in boots, jeans and cashmere sweaters. I'd like to expand my cashmere collection to include a grey zip hoodie. It's perfect for wearing solo or layering under a jacket. I'm loving this light one with dolman sleeves , but dolman tend to fight with my coats. Maybe Karoo's simple version ?

My favorite local boutique is selling last year's version of this dress. The only difference is it's flat navy and has more of a bubble in the skirt. It was on my Christmas list, but never materialized under the tree. While it may not look like much in this picture, it's a dream dress. The empire waist creates a flattering silhouette. The cut makes it perfect for layering with long sleeved tops or jackets. Best of all, it's made of a super soft sweat shirt jersey; so you can look uber fab in a simple shift and still be couch potato comfy. The "Lucy" is on sale at French Connection for $99.99 .

In mid-October Jael Paris pondered YSL's black lipstick . The models of FW08 marched down the runway with glossy, black pouts and porcelain faces. It's a bold look and a tricky look, but her pondering made it a must try for me. Having no black lipstick on hand and little luck finding an affordable imitation YSL's sold out lip gloss that was shiny instead of matte, I dug out an old black eyeliner from the depths of my makeup bag and went to work. I lined and filled in my lips then carfully dotted a clear gloss over top. Unfortunately, eye liner does not stand up to gloss the way lip liner does. It was too easily smudged to be wearable for even a jaunt down the catwalk. I had to try something else. Jael had suggesed this Manic Panic Matte Black Lipstick as an alternative. But it isn't glossy, and the gloss is the key to looking chic instead of costumey. Since Halloween would be over soon, I watched for a cheap black lipstick on all the clearance racks. I found one for a ...

I have it on good authority that reader Rachel isn't the only FMF reader obsessed with hats. This is why I am happy to feature another Etsy shop full of fabulous toppers. Aspasia offers some of the most unique knitted and crocheted hats I've ever seen. These hats go beyond berets and pull on winter hats. They feature fashion-forward and fun details. There are even lovely, knit summer hats. Everything is reasonably priced with items in the shop ranging from $12 to $50. In addition to hats there are ear and neck warmers, necklaces and earrings, scarves and coin purses. Pictured: Crocheted hat 190, $38

I was reading Style Bubble and found myself dwelling on one of Susie's images. Her focus with this DIY look was the neon/sheer layering; mine was the nightgown feel of her dress. Vintage nightgowns are usually less than $5 in my area, and most have built in sheer or lace panels. I can't help imagining layering them with metallic leggings and a sequin top. I think it would be sexy and funky with a vintage twist. Of course, other people could just think I'm running around in my sleepwear. What do you think of the idea? Wearing a Vintage Night Gown as a Dress by Fashion Me Fabulous

When she interviewed me , becca wanted to know what I thought was the most underrated accessory. Glasses, of course. They frame the eyes and draw attention to the face. No dress code mentions eyewear, so even in the most conservative office, you can have fun with bright red or cat eye glasses. Plus it's a great way to establish your non-Barbieness. Images from Flicker users xelia , bebe.rascal , veris , Ladyminky , and JeanieJam . If you're interested in a pair of fun retro glasses, EyeGlass Boy sells unworn pairs for men and women. Best of all, most pairs run half to a quarter the price of modern frames. 1960s cat eye frames $119