$100 and Under: Stylish Bags for College

Q: Can you help me with something? I'm heading to college this fall, and I would like a bag that will stand out from the sea of average North Face backpacks. It should be able to hold all my books, plus more. My budget is $100. Do you have any suggestions?

A: Backpacks are what most college students carry around campus, but if you want a stylish bag that will help you stand out from the crowd, make sure it has plenty of storage. Don't just go for looks; be sure that it's spacious and durable. We prefer a cross-body or convertible bag for school, in a neutral color so you can use it all year long. Here are our top picks for college bags, all for under $100:

Melie Bianco Woven Dome Tote $99.00 at Piperlime

Pink Studio Lupe Convertible Cross-body Bag $80.00 at Piperlime

ASOS Buckle Detail Shoulder Bag $51.49 at Asos

Chinese Laundry Double Handle Tote $70.00 at Piperlime

Big Buddha Monterey Convertible Shoulder Bag $90.00 at Piperlime

Washed Corduroy Tote $45.00 at Gap

Wanted Draw Boot

Slouchy cowboy-style boots are a hot shoe trend, and with its rustic look and unique curved heel, these are the perfect pair. And they're at a great price, too!

$70 at Piperlime

How to Flatter a Boyish Figure

What works about this outfit:

• The double-breasted style, nipped-in waist, and flare of the jacket
• The v-neck, empire waist, and horizontal stripes on the top
• The flare at the hem of the jeans
  

What works about this oufit:

• The straight, fitted style of the blazer
• The scoop neck, empire waist, and feminine floral print on the top
• The bootcut styling of the jeans

Pieces that Flatter a Boyish Body:

What to look for in...

Coats & Jackets:

• Fitted and structured styles (not too boxy)
• Peplum jackets, empire styles, or ones that flare at the waist
• Breast pockets (and other detailing)
• Belted, or with some kind of waist definition
• Double-breasted or wrap styles
• Safari or biker jackets
• Wide lapels and details at the collar

Dresses:

• Semi-fitted styles
• Wrap dresses
• Belted shirtdresses with pocket detailing
• A-lines, pleating, and empire waists or other waist detailing
• Halter necklines (or sweetheart necklines for narrow shoulders)
• Tiers, panels, or ruffles to add volume & contrast waistline
• Bust details (such as ruffles, pleats, or ruching)
• Princess seams and darts
• Tapered or pencil style skirts
• Drapey, soft fabrics

Tops:

• V-necklines, halter, or scoop necks (open necklines)
• Use belts to cinch & define waist
• Ruffled, gathered, pleated, or embellished necklines
• Horizontal stripes or details
• Empire waist, waist ties
• Flared or flutter sleeves
• Breast pockets and other bust detailing
• Yoke details bring attention to bust
• Floral, polka dot, paisley, etc.

Pants/Jeans:

• Low-rise styles
• Fitted through the hips & bottom with a flare at the hem
• Straight, bootcut, or flared
• Pleats visually create curves
• Skinny or straight styles emphasize hips
• Angled pockets, or buttons (on sailor-style pants) help give hips shape
• Back patch or button-flap pockets to add definition

Have any tips on how to dress for a boyish shape? Share them in your comments!

$100 and Under: Cozy Fall-Ready Coats

A comfy coat is a must for any season, so it's okay to splurge on one that'll last for years to come. But with the economy the way it is, it's best not to. Here are eight under-$100 coats you can wear all through summer, as well as fall:

Chino Trench Coat $27.80 at Forever 21

Chic Linen Coat SALE $51.00 (originally $128) at Boden

Trench Coat SALE $99.00 (originally $198) at Boden

Double Breasted Coat $39.80 at Forever 21

Michael Kors Notched Collar Trench SALE $48.90 (originally $128) at Nordstrom

Belted Trench Coat $49.50 at Old Navy

London Fog Double Breasted Trench SALE $58.90 (originally $118) at Nordstrom

AE Patchwork Trench $79.50 at American Eagle Outfitters

Tulle Wool Blend Walking Coat $89.00 at Nordstrom

Sleeveless Pleated Ruffle Top

We love this top's feminine ruffled neckline and unique pleated collar, but what really stands out is its versatility. Wear it with a skirt and blazer/cardigan to work, and jeans or tailored shorts for going out.

$44.50 at Ann Taylor LOFT

5 Fabulous Bags for Under $30

Every woman loves bags, but it's not easy to find affordable ones. Here are five versatile bags you'll want to wear over and over again for (believe it or not) under $30:

Mossimo Black: Large Satchel $18.88 at Target (in gray or brown)

Oversized Twist Tote $18.99 at Charlotte Russe

Faux Leather Hobo $24.50 at Old Navy (more colors available)

Marlena Faux Leather Tote $29.80 at Forever 21

Farblarb Handbag SALE $29.98 (originally $45) at Aldo (in yellow or purple)

Eight Perfect Summer Tops Under $50

What are our favorite things about summer? Warm weather, hanging out at the beach, barbeques & parties...and affordable tops we can wear all season long! Summer apparel is so much cheaper than bulky fall clothes, so here are eight gorgeous tops ideal for sunny days (that won't break the bank):

Stripy Flower Tee SALE $17.00 (originally $58!) at Boden USA

We're loving the fun applique and colorful stripes on this tee, and the incredible sale price is just another reason to love it! Pair it with a floaty white skirt for an easy beachy look.

Paisley Tunic Dress SALE $42.50 (originally $46.90) at Alloy

This stylish bohemian top features a pretty print, and can be worn with skinny jeans for a big-over-small effect, or by itself as a chic cover-up.

Striped Flutter Top SALE $19.99 (originally $24.50) at Gap

The perfect nautical top with just the right amount of details. We love this with a pair of crisp white jeans or cool khakis (and perhaps a lightweight scarf).

Pintucked & Crochet Top $17.80 at Forever 21

Pair this feminine tank with anything from denim shorts to khakis for a casual, flirty look.

Pin Tucked Camisole $14.80 at Forever 21

Our favorite things about this top? The cute floral print and crochet details on the bodice...and the price! Perfect for sunny barbeques and picnics.

Daisy Dots Eyelet Tank Top $28.99 at Ruche

We adore the floral print and crochet trimmed neckline, as well as the bright red, which is sure to brighten up any day.

Chamagne and Sparkles Tunic Dress $42.99 at Ruche

The tribal-inspired details on this tunic are stunning and the warm olive color is perfectly calming and refreshing for summer.

Super Natural Eyelet Border Tank Top SALE $39.99 (originally $69) at Nine West

The floral eyelet details, scalloped hem, and buttons are adorable, and we love the cheery green color.

Vintage Matchstick Cord

Corduroy pants have always been a favorite, but with the new skinny silhouette and ten gorgeous different shades, J Crew's Matchstick Cord is the perfect twist on a classic piece.

$79.50 at J Crew

How to Wear a Denim Skirt (when you're over 30)

Q: I recently bought a denim pencil skirt that fits me just perfectly, but now I have no idea what to wear it with. I don't want to look older than I am (I'm in my late 30s), but I still want to be comfortable, casual, and appropriate. How can I do that?

A: Denim pencil skirts are a great thing to have when you want to look put-together and sophisticated, yet casual. Something to remember is that you don't want to wear one with a plain tee shirt or tank top; those are much too casual to be worn with a tailored pencil skirt. Try pairing it with a blazer (in a fun color to avoid looking like you're headed for work) instead. Here's a step-by-step guide to how you can put together an easy, age-appropriate, go-anywhere outfit:

1. Start with the right skirt (although we're sure you've already found it). Make sure it's fitted through the hips, then comfortably tapers as it reaches the knees. It should be about knee-length -- anything longer isn't flattering at all, and anything shorter should be left for the teenagers (same goes for the ripped-up, destroyed styles).
2. Pair it with a simple, fitted blazer without distracting patterns, buttons, and other unnecessary extras. We like it in a bold color (but not neon) to show off your fun side.
3. Bring another punch of color with a roomy floral or patterned blouse to wear underneath. Keep it untucked and cinch your natural waist with a neutral colored belt (we think a skinny one would work better). This keeps the top from looking too big under the blazer. Plus, it makes you look more polished.
4. You don't need to obsess over accessories, especially if you'll be going out a lot and don't have much time on your hands. Just wear a neutral-colored pair of shoes -- no stilettos or knee-high boots for you. We suggest a sandal or pump with sturdy heels and a classic shape. Add a large tote that holds everything and you're set.

How do you wear a denim skirt? Share in your comments!