I feel like a little shopping is in order, don’t you? I always beat the post-holiday blues by hitting the stores. No need to go crazy, just add a few key pieces and a little fun to your style.

If you don’t feel like leaving the house, or spend all your lunch hours (…or work hours…) browsing the internet for sweet finds, then here are a few destinations you should check out for online shopping amazement.

Stylemint. This genius little idea from Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen is so much fun. To start, the site will ask you a series of questions about your style (Which magazine do your reach for to get inspiration? Which outfit would you wear on a free weekend?). Then, you get personalized outfit picks to shop from, based on your selections. You can browse, or take advice from the site. Either way, the exclusive tees are adorable and you’ll have fun checking out this corner of the web.

Mango. Mango has chic clothes on for fairly reasonable prices. Pretty much whatever you’re looking for, whether it be a great sweater or adorable, heart-covered cardigan, you can find it here. I’ve been seeing Mango clothes in a lot of magazines recently, and there’s definitely a reason why: They sell pieces any girl would want in her closet. Check out their Spring 2012 collection for major fashion love. I’ve already spotted a great trench and cute lace shirt…

Lulu’s. Great looks, great prices! Lulu’s is a shopping destination that will draw you in. I love their flirty dresses and fun accessories. If you’re looking for a date night frock, how about this gorgeous, one-shoulder number in deep blue? Need a festive pop of color for a low-key Valentine’s Day? These chic little flats are perfect, and at $18 you really can’t go wrong.

Sephora. Winter is really a time to treat yourself and your beauty regimen. Don’t let the harsh weather ruin your skin, or take away your glow. Add color into your look with a great lip stain, like tarte LipSurgence. Add a simple bit of Chapstick over top of the stain for a pretty, glossy finish. Give your complexion a boost with Boscia’s Luminizing Black Mask, which purifies and brightens skin. Then, moisturize like crazy! Find a few special beauty items to enhance your winter routine. It’s the season of extra beauty love… take advantage!

Topshop. Can you ever go wrong with a classic destination like Topshop? I love browsing their clothes, since I do not have a store location anywhere near me. I’m pretty much ga-ga over what they’ve got goin’ on for spring. Lots of neon, some geometric shapes. Can I have it all, please?

What are your favorite online shopping destinations for great fashion?

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Happy Monday, readers! We have so much to talk about. Can we please, please, please start with the red carpet?

The Golden Globes. I could literally go on and on about the gorgeous gowns of the GG red carpet on Sunday, but I have to pic a few favorites. I adored My Week with Marilyn winner Michelle Williams‘ Jason Wu creation. The look was totally her, the print and color were both on trend, and she added an amazing Fred Leighton hairband. Daring, as always for Michelle, but she pulled it off. I was also loving Charlize Theron in Dior Haute Couture. The Young Adult star looked like a modern (and dressed-up) ballerina attending a ball, didn’t she? Fab! Lastly, there was the lovely and hilarious Emma Stone, who continued to enhance her fashion resume by rocking a flowy Lanvin dress. I can’t wait to see what this girl wears next. She always impresses. OK. Spill. Which dresses did you love? (The always stellar Dame Helen Mirren, maybe? How about Claire Danes in a black-and-white stunner? All right. Stopping. I could discuss this for all of time.)

Maybelline Baby Lips. I am in a perpetual search for the best lip balm on the planet, because I don’t wear lipstick on a day-to-day basis, and lip gloss is just too sticky for me. No, I need lip balm, a perfect, everyday-wearable option. So basically, I try tons of new things, but nothing ever comes close to good ol’ Chapstick. And that’s what I’ve been sticking with for years. Well… I’ve been hearing all sorts of good word about Maybelline’s new Baby Lips, so I figured, why not? I’ll try a tube. And the verdict: Ah-mah-zing, people! I bought “Cherry Me,” and the color is so pretty and natural. The formula has a slight sheen to it, and goes on oh-so smooth. You have to try it. And at a mere $3 per tube, you may want to try a few flavors. (I will be getting more of this stuff!)

Brights. The word on the street for spring? It’s all about pastels. Pastels are the big color trend for the coming season. And OK, I like pastels as much as the next girl, but you just can’t live in them. They don’t look great with every complexion, and they scream “afternoon tea party.” So… I propose adding a whole lot of brights to your spring/summer wardrobe. (I have been!) Orange, lime, electric blue, magenta, yellow — you’ve got tons of options to stand out, layer and mix. Color-blocking is back, so take advantage of the ability to have fun and play with your wardrobe. Don’t get too overwhelmed by the pastels for spring. Remember to add standout shades to your closet, too!

What are you obsessing over this week?

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Now, we know your style is different from the next girl’s, and that’s why we’ve sorted through and hand-picked our favorite frocks for a variety of style personalities. Whether you like to keep things simple and classic or will take any chance you get to doll yourself up, we have a dress for you. From the sweet girl to the flirty girl, laid-back gal to the chic and sleek, check out these 8 fabulous date night dresses that will make your Valentine swoon when he shows up at your door (even though we know you probably already have that affect on him ).

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Some things never change. Some trends you’ll wear season after season. Some items you’ll always adore. In the ever-changing world of fashion, it’s amazing that we can develop a unique sense of style with common threads that can last a lifetime.

Now, I am a girl with many loves. I like to allow room for my style to evolve. I would rather buy inexpensive, trendy pieces for my wardrobe, so I won’t feel bad getting rid of them if I’m over the look in a season or two, and invest in a few classic pieces. But there are some looks — trendy, classics or whatever — that I always seem to come back to and say, “Ah-ha! This is perfect” every time. And if done right, they’ll probably work forever. Here they are.

1. Shoulder pads. These resurfaced on runways several seasons back, at edgy shows like Balmain, and I’ve since been obsessed with the strong shoulder. I particularly like that a subtle shoulder pad can add major drama to a red-carpet dress, or the look can go low-key for a blazer-and-jeans outfit. Anyway, I think a strong shoulder is undeniably chic.

2. Hanes t-shirt. It’s an essential. Where it with leggings and a vest, under a blazer or with a dressed-up skirt for some contrast. You absolutely can’t go wrong with this plain ‘ol (fabulous) piece.

3. Lace-ups. I have about four or five pairs of lace-up boots. And every time I step into a pair, I feel far more edgy than I actually am. It’s like I’m trying on a different aura for a day, and I can’t help but love a piece that’s a little transformational.

4. Sequins. Whether it’s peeks of sequins underneath an oversize sweater, or a fully-sequined mini-dress, there’s something bold about wearing a little sparkle. You are speaking volumes without saying a word. It’s the “Watch Me Shine” look. And we all need an item like that to call upon when we’re really ready to break out from the crowd.

5. Maxi dresses. Sometimes, I chicken out about the maxi-length. It’s a whole lot of fabric! But every time I see it done on a street style blog or in a magazine, I freak out over how awesome it looks. I’ve bought tons of maxi dresses and skirts, and need to wear them more often. Spring Style Resolution 2012?

6. Utility coat. There’s zero fuss about a utilitarian style, and I’ve loved my long, army-green coat since I purchased it. It’s one of the best fashion investments I’ve ever made. I’ve always thought there was something incredibly stylish about minimalism, not thinking too much, and accessorizing basics. The utility coat allows for all that.

7. Studding. Anyone who knows me would tell you I’m definitely not a “break the rules” type. But with a bit of studding on a handbag, vest or jacket, I can have it all; a tiny bit of grunge detailing and the rule-follower personality. It’s the best of both worlds, and I still get to be me!

What items will you always be in love with?

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The biggest thing to avoid is anything too embellished, so I love these choices that just have a hint of sparkle or a little detail to keep the dress fancy, but not in the high school prom kind of way.

1. Delias One-Shoulder Bow Dress – This gorgeous color would look great on a variety of skintones and I love the sheer top that’s not over exposing or revealing too much. The little bow detail is a great touch!

2. Delias Lace Pleated Mixed Media dress - Most people go for sparkly on New Year’s Eve, but I say stand out from the crowd in a beautiful peach-y color like this one. The mix of the lace and pleats is just the right touch and has a bit of a vintage feel.

3. Forever 21 Sequin Fit and Flare Dress – Want to sparkle, but not be the disco ball? Go for something more subtle like this dress, which is still very pretty on it’s own, but isn’t too over the top flashy.

4. Forever 21 Beaded 1 Shoulder Dress – This flowing, one-shouldered number is the best if you are planning on eating a fabulous meal for New Year’s Eve. Don’t let your dress constrict you from eating as much as you want! This dress will hide your food baby perfectly.

And of course, don’t forget the all important accessories to complete your look! These will go with all 4 of these looks and are pretty much what I will be wearing!

BCBGeneration ‘Capone’ Pump – A pretty champagne colored pump with a glitter heel and platform. The perfect shoe to start the New Year!
Embossed Leopard Print Clutch – Amp up your dress with a very classic leopard print clutch!
Gold Rush Nail Polish – I’m all about the glitter nail polish! Painting your nails with this gold glitter means you can go minimal with your jewelry and let your nails stand out!
Smashbox ‘Smokebox’ Photo Op Eyeshadow Palette – A smokey eye is the best look for any of these dresses and this palette gives you all the colors you need.

Have you planned out your New Year’s eve outfit yet? What will you be wearing?

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This Christmas, I was given the fabulous book 100 Ideas That Changed Fashion by Harriet Worsley. And every idea she mentions is so true. Fashion is constantly evolving. From the genius of nylon, to the elegance of royals setting trends, we often forget how simple inventions and innovations have influenced what we wear and how we wear it.

So, the book got me wondering: What ideas have changed my style, and affected me the most? It’s amazing to think about. Here, I break it down.

Fashion photoblogs. They say a picture’s worth a thousand words. Sometimes, I think it’s worth so much more than that. Perusing websites like The Sartorialist and Lee Oliveira allow me to take in entire looks and personalities without a word (for the most part). I draw conclusions about what I like, what I don’t, and what really works. I see someone wear a trend, like major fur, and notice how seamlessly they pull it off, which makes me want to try a trend too. Photoblogs have given me the courage to try new styles, and own whatever I’m wearing.

Nerdy chic. From the moment nerdy glasses and oxford shoes became all the rage, I knew I could take suddenly take my perfectionist style down a touch. I love that I can now look low-key, add some quirky elements to my outfit, and be infinitely cooler. Nerd chic has rocked my world.

Menswear elements. I can’t imagine a world without boyfriend blazers, frayed jeans, motorcycle jackets and tailored pantsuits. Stealing from the boys (and adding a girlie twist, of course), is one of my favorite looks to try out. I love contrast. A great menswear watch or utility belt makes my outfit feel complete… I can’t see myself reverting to all daintiness anytime soon!

Sequins. I wore a sequined mini dress to my senior homecoming, and I still love what I wore. (No style regret here!) I always like to stand out a bit, and sequins always add a flash of glam to any look. Whether it’s a simple clutch or an entire dress paired with boots or heels, sequins will always be a style staple for me.

Bold make-up. Can you believe there was once a time when women knew nothing of the magic behind a great red lip or smoky eye? Neither can I! Even if I’m wearing jeans and a t-shirt, one simple beauty statement makes an entire look wholly different. My style wouldn’t be the same without integrating beauty options into my looks. Thank goodness for modern make-up!

What ideas have changed your style?

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Post-Christmas Shopping, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways…

Yeah, Seriously. I’m really going to count the ways. So listen up, friends! When I’m done, you’re going to be just as crazy about the (potentially-sad) days following Christmas. The “real” season of shopping is upon us.

1. You can get great discounts. After-Christmas sales can be pretty awesome. Black Friday is the day that gets all the press and hype as having the best deals of the year, but stores want you to come in post-shopping mania to keep spending money. So they will offer up some steals. Take advantage!

2. There are new looks in stores. It’ll be just about mid-season, and stores usually offer up new goods at about the halfway point. May as well take a look at the new inventory, right?

3. You won’t have to fight massive crowds anymore. OK, maybe for a few days you will have to fight the people making returns and such. But after that? Everyone is pretty satisfied with their Christmas loot, and basically avoid the stores. This is the time to spend hours browsing with no one bothering you! Can I get a “yay”?

4. You may have a little Christmas money to spend? After a few inevitable returns and maybe a little gift money, you can afford to check out that adorable skirt at H&M, and that new lip gloss you’ve been lusting after from Sephora. Heck, buy yourself a Starbucks Venti Chai (or whatever your drink-of-choice may be) to sip on while you wander. You survived the holiday mania. You deserve it.

5. It’s the middle of a new season. Time to spice it up! Let’s face it: It’s easy to get a little bored with your outfits in the middle of a season. You can probably use a few new pieces to spice up your wardrobe. Along with your Christmas additions, a new handbag, cardi, belt and boots should give your closet an extra kick.

6. There’s no need to feel guilty. You know how you always seemed to end up with a new top or beauty product for every present you purchased for someone else while Christmas shopping? How you were always super-successful finding a chic watch for you, but not for mom? Well, the guilt can evaporate! You’ve already spread holiday cheer with your gifts for friends and fam. Now you’re free to buy yourself that pretty new scarf you’ve been eyeing. (Right?)

7. Well… my final reason to love after-Christmas shopping is an easy one: Because there will never be a time when I dislike buying a glittery headband from Target, or that fantastic LBD from H&M. I just love shopping. Period. The End.

What is your favorite reason to indulge in a little post-Christmas shopping?

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Happy Monday, lovelies! I hope you’re all feeling relaxed during this wonderful week before Christmas week. Who’s excited for a little R&R with family and friends? …you know I am. To reflect that, as we officially enter the final stretch of the holiday season, let’s celebrate with a special edition of Monday’s Obsessions. Shall we?

Engagement rings. Britney Spears is ringing in the holiday in style (pun intended) with an engagement! Congrats to the Queen of Pop, who recently announced she’s tying the knot with boyfriend Jason Trawick. Now, let’s ask the real question y’all: Did you see the ring? Brit’s man did good! I’m loving the 3-carat sparkler… 90 stones around the platinum band, and a perfect white diamond in the center designed by Neil Lane. What do you guys think? Have any of you guys gotten recently engaged (or anyone anticipating the big question soon)? Sound off about Brit’s ring, your ring, or your dream ring in the comments.

What’s your style resolution? It’s never too early, or late, to start making New Year’s Resolutions, especially when it comes to style. My resolution? Well, I have two. Number one is to start pushing the envelope next year by adding some color. I’ve become too black/gray/off-white obsessed. Number two? I want to try an edgy new hairdo for 2012. My plan is to chop off my strands soon and donate to Locks of Love (which I have mentioned before, so hold me to it, guys…), so I need a shorter cut to rock next year. What should it be? A bob? Asymmetrical? …or, dare I even think it, pixie?! Tell me what your vote is, and then spill your style resolution below.

Last-minute holiday outfit ideas. See: Zara. When it comes to scouring the internet for the latest fashion and beauty stuff, I really do have an obsession. Right now I am craving everything Zara. How adorable would this swingy tulle dress look on Christmas? What about this sleek metallic shift for New Year’s Eve? And, OK, I would rock this studded clutch on both occasions, or like whenever, because it’s edgy and amazing. Do you have a Zara obsession? What’s your favorite piece right now? Share!

What fashion and beauty topics are on your mind this week?

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Earlier this week, I told you how I thought a book made a fantastic accessory. And I do. But there are also books that will serve as endless fashion inspiration. So, why not add a few to your Christmas list (or use some leftover holiday cash to pick these up after the 25th)?

Need suggestions? I have five:

I Love Your Style by Amanda Brooks. I just recently picked up this book, by Vogue alum Brooks, and it’s awesome. Although I’ve only thumbed through it, the pictures and little tips are enough to tell me I’m going to love it! The book is about how to “define and refine” your style. And let’s be honest – we can all use a reminder from time to time!

Parisian Chic: A Style Guide by Ines de la Fressange. Oh, the French! They’re so sophisticated compared to us Americans… so we can probably learn a thing or two about style and grace from author Fressange, who works in the fashion industry. This promises to be a totally charming read… (Hint, hint. I would accept gifts this holiday season…)

100 Ideas that Changed Fashion by Harriet Worsley. Fingers crossed I find this book under the tree this year! From jeans to the LBD and everything in between, Worsley’s book is all about the fashion innovations that have shaped the way we dress, accessorize and style ourselves each and every day. Worth a read? I think so! We’ve got to know our history, folks!

Valentino by Suzy Menkes. I’m pretty much in love with all the designer-fashion coffee table books that keep hitting the market these days. There are book that cover the likes of YSL, Louis Vuitton, Tom Ford, Chanel and Alexander McQueen, but why not start with the iconic Valentino? Although he’s retired, the amazing images of clothes throughout his career will keep him alive and well for a long, long time.

P.S. – I Made This… by Erica Domesek. If you haven’t nabbed blogger and DIY-guru Erica’s book based on the site of the same name, it’s about time you did! Her incredible inventions will save you money and look as chic as the designer versions. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you created that scarf/necklace/tank yourself. Always a good feeling!

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It’s not Monday… just kidding. It is! But like you, I’d much rather it be a Friday/Saturday/Sunday where I can curl up with a good book in my bed while eating ice cream. Or something like that.

To ease the pain of the upcoming week, I do have a few fun obsessions to share with you. I am all about the positives, people.

The Pixie cut. When I heard Ginnifer Goodwin was growing out her pixie, I felt truly saddened. Girl just pulls it off so well! It is a true hair obsession. I’ve been crazy about this cut ever since the likes of Victoria Beckham and Twiggy rocked it, and more recently, Emma Watson, Carey Mulligan and Michelle Williams. But everyone seems to be growing their locks out again (save Michelle – go girl!). I hate to see this edgy style go. What do you think of the pixie fading from Hollywood a bit?

Pre-Fall 2012. Pre-Fall is here! Much like Resort, it’s a taste of fashion in between seasons. Calvin Klein, Chanel, Rag&Bone and Donna Karen have all sent out collections, but I am loving what I’m seeing from Burberry. At times vintage, at times ladylike, at times career woman… the whole collection is a nod to sophistication. Check out the chic separates, amazing coats and rich colors. Which look is your favorite?

Books. I’ve always thought books were incredible accessories. Don’t you feel secretly envious of that girl at the coffee shop with a great piece of lit, a pair of nerd glasses and loose wavy hair? She’s so stylish, right? I have many books on my Christmas list. Among them? Joan Didion’s The Year of Magical Thinking for the serious side of me, The Office star Mindy Kaling’s Is Everyone Hanging Out With Me? for the humorous side, and Sam Wasson’s 5th Avenue, 5 A.M. (about the iconic film, Breakfast at Tiffany’s) for the my inner fashionista.

What are you thinking about this Monday, readers? Do we have any obsessions in common? Sound off!

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