today's QPT

item of clothing you can't afford 2 spend cheaply on: a black cardigan...because it's a classic piece you plan on having in your closet for a long time to come and you don't want the color to fade

today's qpt

accessory you can't afford to spend cheaply on: a belt...because cheap ones break and you plan on having it in your closet for a long time.

inclusivity

i love it when designers we come to know and admire make their designs more affordable for us commoners. case n point: karl lagerfeld for macy's 8/31/11, versace for h&m 11/17/11, versace pre-spring 2012 for h&m online 1/19/12, and finally missoni for target 9/13/11-10/22/11. my stomach is flipping in anticipation. you can google it for previews of the collection

today's QPT

wanna style the latest menswear season without breaking the bank?...pick up a pair of suspenders from h&m for about $10 and wear with your fave button down or white tee. or how about raiding your bfriend's, son's, father's, man in your life's closet and clip what he's rocking. i love the brown oxfords at payless shoe source and you can take advantage of their current BOGO sale. me myself i plan on purchasing a bow tie in a variety of colors.

my other fave place to shop

hey has anyone checked out jcpenney.com lately? they offer many options: mostly in basics that are trendy. also they are the home of Liz Claiborne, MNG by mango, Nine & co, Worthington and call it spring by ALDO Group, among others.  it ain't your gma's store no mo... its your mamas and auntie and maybe even sisters store. check out my latest picks for the upcoming fall season.

i am so into pleats this season which is why I was immediately drawn to this dress (on sale 39.99). you can always opt for a wine colored or brown leather belt to make things interesting. the necklace is like that at 20.99 on sale, it's a steal. the booties (59.99) are on trend for this seasons animal print. if the price is not right wait for a sale or sign up for penney's email list for special offers. i chose this handbag knowing it might not match perfectly with the dress and/or accessories however i am a firm believer in shopping for handbags that can last a whole season. this seems to be that pick and it goes with the year's trend of messengers bag. enjoy