As I was working on part two of my "going-out looks" series (yes, it's turned into a series), I realized that finding cute party tops amidst a sea of fast-fashion party tops is almost like finding a needle in a haystack. You may or may not agree with me on this, but sometimes it seems like 99.9% of party-tops are just unwearable. Either the fabric isn't right, the colors are off, the cut is waaay off or the print is wacko—and you have to leave it on the rack.

So here are a couple tips that will help you hone-in on budget-fashion party tops that don't look cheap but rather have that designer-feel. Because we like to party in style.

How to Shop for Budget Fashion That Looks Designer

Look for embellishments that appear to have been hand-sewn. Anything with a hand-made look and feel to it is extremely "in" these days. It's funny because when I was a child, I wasn't always enthusiastic about wearing things my mother had sewn for me because I wanted that "store bought" look all the other kids were wearing. Now I wish I had half her talent so I could sew things for myself! But yeah, the homespun look says "designer." Any imperfect beading, embroidery, unfinished seams or interesting patchwork will elevate the look of any garment.


Focus on uncommon colors: All colors can be found at all pricepoints, but if you've ever stepped into a designer boutique, think about the colors you saw—generally darker, muted hues, right? Now think about the colors you saw last time you were at Wet Seal—lots of CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black), correct? I'm not saying "don't wear color," just be aware of those less common shades like the dusty rose corset shown here (which also features some unique ruching that makes it look pricier)—and give them a try.


Be picky about prints. Certain prints have this indefinable quality about them that makes them look "expensive" while other prints just look cheap. Oftentimes, it's the way a print is used that determines whether or not it passes muster (Marc Jacobs can make any granny print look hot) but generally speaking, you'll want a print that looks pulled from the pages of history or inspired by art, something quirky and un-generic in harmonious colors. Make sense?


Pay attention to detail. Sometimes all a top needs to be elevated from "cheap" to "chic" is a lovely detail, like the peacock feather pin on this top (left). Other on-trend details include zippers, bows, subtle laser-cutting, or crafty appliques. A word of warning: Generally speaking, a built-in necklace, scarf, belt, etc. is not a good detail and one you should avoid.


Choose tops with a cool construction. High-end designers, as you know, play with the shape, cut, and silhouette of their creations, focusing on such things as draping and tailoring to construct their garments. Not so much in the budget world. This is due, in part, to the fact that fast-fashion manufacturers don't have luxurious fabrics at their fingertips. But every now and then, you'll find something with interesting origami pleating or exaggerated proportions that says "designer"! Waste no time scooping them up, just make sure they work for your figure.

P.S. Expensive tops can sometimes look cheap. Just because a garment carries a hefty pricetag doesn't mean it's not the tackiest thing on earth. Use discretion when shopping at places like bebe which aren't cheap but have plenty of cheap-looking clothes.

Every weekend I go through the same routine: What will I wear to dinner? What will I wear out dancing? And every weekend I end up wearing the same outfit: Jeans and a tank top with a black blazer. I don't feel cute or dressed up when I go out. Most of what I wear, I can get away with wearing during the day on a nice summer afternoon. I'm in need of serious fashion advice and tips on cute, classy, and trendy ideas on night life outfits and tops. What are some good outfits and where can I buy them? —JK

Ah yes, the jeans/tank top rut. Been there, done that (and still do it on occasion!) There's no harm wearing the tried-and-true if it makes you feel great, but you've admitted to feeling uncute, so, here are three completely new party outfits to help you break away from the boring. Consider this part one of my answer; in part two, I'll cover cute going-out tops that will breathe new life into your old jeans. And for more great outfit ideas, definitely check out the celebrity style section of my blog; I feature celebs mostly to show how their stylists piece together simple yet stylish ensembles, then I break it down for the budget-babe set.

Now, on to the outfits!

1. Dresses. One piece and you're done. Well, almost. You will of course need to shave and you will need shoes—possibly jewelry and a matching handbag—but other than that: One piece, and you're done.

2. Short shorts. Swap your jeans for chic black shorts and add a loose-fitting top that covers the waist, yet still allows you to see the shorts underneath, lest onlookers wonder, "Is she wearing any pants?"

3. Skirt + tank top. There's a skirt shape to flatter every figure; pick yours in a bright hue or stylish print and pair it with a simple, solid tank (or tee if you'd prefer to cover some arm).

Where to shop for "going-out" clothes on a budget:

• 
  Aldo
  


• 
  Arden B.
  


• 
  Charlotte Russe
  


• 
  Express
  


• 
  Forever 21
  


• 
  GoJane.com
  


• 
  Lulus.com
  


• 
  Target
  


• 
  Torrid
  


• 
  Wet Seal
  

This Re Collection Triangle Bra is made from recycled garments and comes in either black/cobalt or black/fuchsia for just $40 at Shopbop.com. It's a yummy way to add a pop of color to your day (even if you're the only one who knows).


Another option: Forever 21's Rebel Mesh bra features the same triangular shape and contrast trim styling, and is also available in black/blue or black/pink for just $6.80 at Forever21.com.

Here are the photographs I took of the "Romantic" collections at the Charlotte Russe Launch Event - Fall 2009 last night in NYC. Stylists merged elements from the lookbook referred to as "Heirloom," "Oh So Chic" and "Desire," each marked by feminine details with a nostalgic nod to the past. Some of the looks have a roaring '20s flapper feel to them that I just love. The Chanel-inspired tweed jacket is a must-have, and don't miss the Jimmy Choo-inspired cutout booties (I was hoping someone would do those on the cheap!).

Left: The "Desire" collection embodies Baroque romance with lace, fur, feather & ribbon details, jet beads, goddess draping and back interest. Right: The "Oh So Chic" collection captures the Uptown girl spirit with satin fabrications, rompers, sequins & studs, cutouts and stone embellishments.

The "Heirloom" collection embodies ladylike-style with cardigans & couture-inspired jackets, tweed & boucle, peacock, mesh & crochet details, vintage cheetah prints, and pretty pearls.

Skirt, available 8/10, $22.99; Satin handbag, available 8/14, $19.99; Pearl bracelet, available 8/11, $6.00

I noticed these are knock-offs of Jimmy Choos Cutout shoe booties, orig. $950 at Bergdorf Goodman.

These shoes are listed in the lookbook under kitson for Charlotte Russe (more on that later) but appeared in the "Heirloom" model exhibit (sorry but I don't know the industry speak, haha). Available 8/6, $34.99

Fast-fashion favorite Charlotte Russe unveiled fashions from their upcoming Fall 2009 collections last night at a launch event in New York. Here, highlights from the "Buckingham Collection," an unapologetic take on Brit punk. I've filled in product details where available. Not my style but there are a couple pieces I could work with, like the plaid pencil skirt. What do you think?