Stop Wasting Money: The Only 12 Items Any Closet Needs for Fall

Trends may come and go, but you can count on these 12 fall staples to forever hold their place at the front of your closet

By Rachel Greenberg - August 23, 2013 everlane.com

Whether crisp and clean or silky and sultry, a button-up shirt exudes sophistication and class. Keep the collar unbuttoned for a laid-back look, or achieve pure polish with done-up styling. It’s easy elegance personified, no matter which way you choose.

To buy: Everlane Silk Rounded Collar Blouse, $80 at everlane.com

topshop.com

A sleek way to top-off any look, take your tailored blazer out from behind your desk and wear it with everyday favorites. Pair with jeans and a tee for off-duty elegance or use this menswear-inspired staple to balance out a super sweet dress.

To buy: Topshop Collarless Panel Jacket, $90 at topshop.com

zara.com

When it comes to shoes that will stand the test of time, minimalism is key. A mid-heel, sleek silhouette and single sole will ensure your footwear is both practical and pretty.

To buy: Zara Two-Tone Pointed Ankle Strap Shoes, $60 at zara.com

asos.com

Well worth an investment, a coat gets more use than almost any item in your closet during cooler months. Leave room for layering and keep it long and lean for an elevated outwear look guaranteed to last throughout the years.

To buy: ASOS Limited Edition Salt & Pepper Longline Coat, $203 at asos.com

mango.com

Arm candy alert -- nothing takes you from day-to-night like a smart satchel! An essential accessory that always feels fresh, this ladylike piece earns you mega style points.

To buy: Mango Quilted Bowling Bag, $70 at mango.com

frenchconnection.com

The epitome of cool, a leather-like jacket has become an urban cult-classic. Transform preppy or polished pieces by throwing it over your shoulders on chilly nights, or pair with jeans and a tee to add instant edge.

To buy: French Connection Athena Jacket, $148 at frenchconnection.com

baublebar.com

It’s true – great jewelry can up the ante on your outfit. But that doesn’t mean your earrings have to be trendy. Choose diamonds, pearls, or simple silver or gold spiked studs for subtle sophistication. A little hint of sparkle can go a long way!

To buy: Baublebar Glitter Orb Studs, $26 at baublebar.com

bodenusa.com

Feminine and chic, a polished sweater is an obvious choice when you want to warm-up without feeling frumpy. Super-soft cashmere and a tailored fit make this layering piece look extra luxe.

To buy: Boden Cashmere Crewneck Cardigan, $148 at bodenusa.com

creativecontrast.com

For a timeless trick to inject a pop of color, put the focus on your face with a pretty signature scarf. A great way to keep warm while adding interest to your outfit, pick a pattern you love and layer it over any fall look.

To buy: Tolani Super Silk Scarf, $95 at creativecontrast.com

loft.com

No work wardrobe is complete without a pencil skirt, but feel free to take this staple beyond the boardroom, too. Choose fashion-forward accessories and stick with a slim fit to keep it classy and sassy.

To buy: LOFT Curvy Fit Leopard Print Pencil Skirt, $70 at loft.com

zara.com

Fancy footwear always looks great, but savvy women know that a smart driving or walking shoe can be a true sole saver. Whether keeping it casual on the weekend or commuting to work, stay comfortable and stylish in a pair of soft leather loafers. Less dainty than a ballet flat yet still perfectly refined, these shoes will take you seamlessly from one season to the next!

To buy: Zara Soft Leather Loafer, $70 at zara.com

revolveclothing.com

Impossibly chic, a classic shift in solid black is the perfect canvas for any occasion. Take a cue from Coco Chanel, and opt for something simple and refined, ensuring your LBD will be long lasting and versatile. To transform this stylish uniform into an of-the-moment ensemble, just add a few accessories and off you go!

To buy: Nation LTD La Quinta Dress, $92 at revolveclothing.com

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Stuff We Love Awards: See Your Favorite Beauty Products, Jeans & More!

The votes (all 70,000) are in! We asked readers to choose their 10 favorites from 100 winners in the 2013 iVillage Stuff We Love Awards

Maybelline

What it is: This concealer deposits a concentrated dose of spot-fading vitamin C that targets acne scars, sun spots and other imperfections while it camouflages.

Why we love it: “I would use this concealer for the finish alone—the fuzzy applicator stipples it on for a soft-focus look. But the fact that it actually fades the spots it covers? Genius.” —Katherine Kluznik Rentmeester, beauty and style channel editor, iVillage

To buy: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Spot Concealer + Treatment, $9.99 at cvs.com

See all the winners: Stuff We Love Awards 2013: Best Drugstore Makeup

DIAL

What it is: Pink salt harvested in the Himalayas contains more than 84 minerals and elements, and it’s the secret ingredient in Dial’s incredibly nourishing, but clean-rinsing, new body wash. The innovative formula smells great, too, thanks to a delicate water lily scent.

Why we love it: “This is the most skin-softening, transformative body wash experience I've had in a really long time. For those who aren't into heavy perfumes but who have dry skin, it delivers a clean shower experience with long-lasting hydration.” —Kristin Booker, blogger, Fashion. Style. Beauty.

To buy: Dial Skin Therapy Replenishing Body Wash with Himalayan Pink Salt and Water Lily, $3.79 at target.com

See all the winners: Stuff We Love Awards 2013: Best Skincare Products

john frieda

What it is: Designed to replicate an in-salon conditioning treatment, this omega-3-based formula improves the look and feel of damaged hair with just one use.

Why we love it: “The five minutes spent letting this deep conditioner soak in are well worth it. It’s a godsend for thirsty, damaged hair, leaving my processed blonde feeling silky without weighing it down.” —Katherine Kluznik Rentmeester, beauty and style channel editor, iVillage

To buy: John Frieda Full Repair Hydrate + Rescue Deep Conditioner, $8.99 at target.com

See all the winners: Stuff We Love Awards 2013: Best Hair Care Products

levi's

What they are: These gently flared, mid-rise jeans from Levi’s lower-priced line are a godsend for pear shapes; a slight flare balances your proportions and visually slims hips and thighs. 

Why we love them: “They stretch so they are very comfy and also flare a little at bottom, which makes me feel sexy!” —janejoeyxo, iVillage reader

To buy: dENiZEN from Levi's Essential Stretch ‘Modern Boot Cut’ Jean, $27.99 at target.com

See all the winners: Stuff We Love Awards 2013: Best Jeans

KIND

What they are: Energy bars with a sweet-and-spicy blend of ingredients that you can actually pronounce, including roasted cashews, crunchy almonds and ginger, all in one satisfying and nutritious snack. 

Why we love them: "This is my go-to bar for days on the run and nonstop moments in the office. Honey gives it the perfect amount of sweetness with only 5 grams of sugar and nothing artificial. Just one of these bars satisfies both my sweet tooth and rumbling tummy without sacrificing taste. I’ve been enjoying Kind bars for years, long before I started working with them."  —Michelle Dudash, R.D., nutritionist, blogger and author of Clean Eating for Busy Families

To buy: Kind Nuts & Spices Cashew & Ginger Spice Bars, $1.99 each; For stores see kindsnacks.com

See all the winners: Stuff We Love Awards 2013: Best Healthy Packaged Snacks

Lodge

What it is: This amazingly affordable set combines two pieces of rugged, pre-seasoned cast iron cookware: a roomy dutch oven and a skillet/griddle that doubles as its lid.

Why we love it: "No other cookware works as hard, cooks as evenly or lasts as long (literally, a lifetime) as cast iron, but pieces can be expensive—and clunky. This ingenious two-piece set from Lodge solves both problems. It costs just $35, and it doesn't take up much space, since the smaller skillet does double-duty as a lid!" —Dina El Nabli, health and lifestyle director, iVillage

To buy: Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Combo Cooker, $34.99 at amazon.com

See all the winners: Stuff We Love Awards 2013: Best Kitchen Tools

mr. clean

What it is: Mr. Clean Magic Eraser uses water-activated micro-scrubbers to remove scruff marks, dirt and stains from walls, baseboards and floors. The select-a-size model is scored in six different sized portions for the ideal size for any job.

Why we love it: "This thing lives up to its magic reputation. I don’t know how it works, but it gets out everything—pen on the tables, dirty fingerprints on the wall, algae off the exterior siding, you name it." —Liz Zack, editorial director, iVillage

To buy: Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Select-A-Size Cleaning Pads, $4.85 for 6 at soap.com

See all the winners: Stuff We Love Awards 2013: Best Cleaning Products

rubbermaid

What it is: Rubbermaid's Modular Canisters are perfect for storing coffee, nuts, rice, beans and bulk snacks. The clear bases allow for easy identification while the lids fit for easy stacking.

Why we love it: "My kitchen cabinets are small and crowded; there’s always an open box of spaghetti spilling noodles or random packets of snacks getting lost in the back of the cupboard. These BPA-free plastic canisters help keep dried goods like lentils, chips and cereal fresh and organized." —Erika Janes, senior editor, iVillage 

To buy: Rubbermaid Premium Modular Canisters, $39.99 for an 8-piece set at rubbermaid.com

See all the winners: Stuff We Love Awards 2013: Best Home Organization Products

bare fruit snacks

What they are: These crunchy snacks are made from one thing: apples. They're low-calorie, high-fiber and super satisfying.

Why we love them: "I don't always have time to slice up fruit for snacking when we're in a rush. My kids love these snacks as much as regular chips, and they're so much healthier." —Shari Brooks, blogger, My Judy the Foodie

To buy: Bare Fruit Apple Chips, $2.00 per 1.69-oz. bag; For stores see barefruitsnacks.com

See all the winners: Stuff We Love Awards 2013: Best Healthy Packaged Snacks for Kids

Green Toys

What it is: This planet-friendly ferry boat (and the two cars it comes with) are made in the US from recycled milk jugs and are BPA- and phthalate-free. Everything is water-safe, which means it packs a lot of safe and fun playtime.  

Why we love it: "There are so many things that are cool about this toy: It combines cars and boats; it can be played with on both land and sea (er, bathtub) and it's completely green. I may have to start ordering this in bulk for birthdays!" —Erika Janes, senior editor, iVillage

To buy: Green Toys Ferry Boat with Mini Cars, $24.99 at greentoys.com

See all the winners: Stuff We Love Awards: Best Kids' Birthday Gifts Under $25

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The Absolute Best Makeup You Can Buy for $12 (or Less!)

Don't believe anyone who says you have to spend big on beauty. We've hunted down a dozen good-as-it-gets products that blow their pricier rivals out of the water.

By Kristin Granero - August 28, 2013 hm.com

This perforated pouch is as cool as it is convenient. Toss it in your tote for midday touch-ups, and rock it solo in the evening.

To buy: H&M Makeup Bag, $4.95 at hm.com

target.com

Make it matte this fall with this innovative formula, which goes on like a liquid and transforms to a powder on contact, leaving a soft (and shine-free) finish.

To buy: L'Oreal Paris Magic Nude Liquid Powder Foundation with SPF 18, $10.99 at target.com

ulta.com

Sexy meets sophistication in this shimmery shade. Save it for special occasions (read: wine night with the girls) or use it to spice up otherwise monotonous tasks.

To buy: OPI San Francisco Nail Lacquer in Muir Muir on the Wall, $9 at ulta.com

ulta.com

Talk about a perfect pairing. One side of this dual-ended liner delivers the pick-me-up, while the other packs the heat. Tip: Forgo the basic black for the Blue Nile or Emerald Empire shades for a fresh fall look.

To buy: Revlon PhotoReady Kajal Intense Eye Liner and Brightener in Blue Nile, $8.99 at ulta.com

maybelline.com

Not only is this loose powder pot jam-packed with pigment, but it has serious staying power. Apply sparingly for a more casual look, or combine several shades to create the perfect party palette.

To buy: Maybelline Color Tattoo Pure Pigments Up To 24HR Shadow in Wild Gold, $6.99 at maybelline.com

target.com

What imperfections? Whether you're looking to conceal blemishes or correct discoloration, this lightweight formula has you covered. Even better, it boasts an SPF of 35 to protect against sun damage.

To buy: Almay Smart Shade CC Cream, $8.49 at target.com

cvs.com

Giving new meaning to the term "maxed out", the curvy wand that accompanies this favored formula will help you attain voluminous, wing-like lashes that curve upward and outward.

To buy: CoverGirl Flamed Out Water Resistant Mascara, $7.49 at cvs.com

topshop.com

Nail some of fall's hottest beauty trends with this compact art sponge kit, featuring the tools to create various ombre and tie-dye designs.

To buy: Topshop Nail Art Sponge Kit, $4 at topshop.com

sephora.com

This magic wand is accompanied with a paraben-free potion that adapts to the pH of your lips for a truly personalized pink pout.

To buy: Sephora Collection Color Adapt Lip Gloss in Unique Pink, $12 at sephora.com

nyxcomestics.com

From fresh-faced to fierce, this six-shade set has the hues to pull off fall's prettiest palettes. Tip: Apply to the top (winged) or bottom lash line with a damp eyeliner brush for a more polished effect.

To buy: NYX Cosmetics The Smoky Shadow Palette, $7 at nyxcosmetics.com

target.com

Red-y or not, bold lips are taking this season by storm. Make sure you're set with this Marseilles-toned (and seriously moisturizing) stick.

To buy: NP Set Lipstick Brights in Marseilles, $12 at target.com

target.com

"Fall back" to the basics with this chic six-piece brush set, complete with a compact black case and mirror.

To buy: Sonia Kashuk Essential Eye Kit, $11.49 at target.com

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These Would Look So Nice on Your Ears, No? Here’s How to Snag Them

All the sparkle, none of the commitment: Check out our guide to renting and borrowing jewelry online

By Alesandra Dubin - August 21, 2013

You'd love to wear a blingy diamond necklace for a special event, or just try out a few trend pieces without committing to buying new ones as soon as the fad fades. We've got you covered (in fabulous baubles): Check out our guide to where to rent jewelry online.

RocksBox
We're loving the concept behind the new RocksBox, which bills itself as your personal online jewelry stylist. Here's how it works: For membership prices beginning at $15 per month, you get a box in the mail filled with jewelry valued at more than $200 from designers like Gorjana and CC Skye. Wear the pieces for as long as 60 days, and then return them all if you like — or chose to buy any of the pieces at 20 percent off retail. You can return the boxes as often as you like for new jewels. Plus, you can help educate RocksBox by filling out your style preferences (and updating as they change — for instance, if you get a new job), so you're always getting stuff you could potentially love. Fun, right? 

Bag Borrow or Steal
You'd be forgiven, of course, if you assumed Bag Borrow or Steal was the place to rent luxe handbags only. In fact, it also has a great selection of jewelry for rental, including Chanel logo studs that can be yours for $75 a month — plenty of time to interview for (and score!) that top-level new job. 

Haute Vault
Haute Vault's jewelry runs to the highest-end imaginable. (Think a $100,000 diamond necklace you can rent for $2,500). But it also has great costume jewelry for daily wear, like this really cool pair of Stephen Webster yellow gold chandelier earrings you can rent for just $35.

Adorn
As we've told you before, Adorn is an incredible place to rent bridal jewelry. But it works just as well for any other special occasion too. For a dramatic look for a major milestone birthday or anniversary, for instance, how much would you love to rock this gorgeous four-strand diamond bracelet? It rents for a splurgy $360, but it retails for a not-going-to-happen $15,500.

Borrowed Bling
Borrowed Bling works on a monthly membership program, with the cost to join and borrow jewels starting at a modest $29.95. That membership fee allows you to check out two to three items at a time, depending on your membership level. (Alterntively, you can choose to skip th membership and just buy the pieces you like.)

Alesandra Dubin is a Los Angeles-based writer and the founder of home and travel blog Homebody in Motion. Follow her on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter.

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What Your Boyfriend Would Look Like With Prom Hair

Meet five guys who know how to rock an updo...

By Drew DiSabatino - August 22, 2013 If you’ve ever wondered what guys with long hair might look like if they had fancy lady hairstyles you are, apparently, not alone. Jessica Saia of The Bold Italic took eight guys with long hair to a salon and had their hair done up right. (Or maybe wrong, we’re still not sure about a couple of them). Check them our favorites below: Jessica Saia/Isla Murray/Ryan Raphael/Ledora Francis/Brian Blakley

We don’t know if it’s the featured neck hair that makes this one so upsetting or if it’s the moustache and goatee paired with it. Either way there’s a whole lot of hair happening on this guy’s head -- but we don’t totally hate it. Let's just hope his prom date doesn’t sport the same style. Jessica Saia/Isla Murray/Ryan Raphael/Ledora Francis/Brian Blakley

The Sass Bun is every bit as disturbing as it is fancy. The curled strands acting as makeshift bangs and the bunch on top kind of make this guy look like Pebbles from the Flintsones, if Pebbles could grow a moustache. As if the hairdo isn’t sassy enough, the face he makes as he presents his coif sure is. Jessica Saia/Isla Murray/Ryan Raphael/Ledora Francis/Brian Blakley

The hippie wedding is everything you’d expect it to be. Honestly this man looks exactly like a few baristas we’ve seen around our neighborhood, so seeing this one in real life might not even turn that many heads. And braids are so in right now. Jessica Saia/Isla Murray/Ryan Raphael/Ledora Francis/Brian Blakley

This do “puts a manly twist on matrimony” in a way that's comforting and yet so totally wrong. There's clearly some excellent craftsmanship going on with this style (hello, fabulous bump on top). Every one knows the most important part of a hairstyle is confidence, and this guy doesn’t lack it. So many feels about this one. Jessica Saia/Isla Murray/Ryan Raphael/Ledora Francis/Brian Blakley

The Mormon prom is “deceptively modest,” but we don’t think it’s deceptively anything (although it does kind of make us want to re-watch Big Love). This guy rocks the style so well he may want to consider incorporating it into his regular morning routine, provided he’s willing to wake up at the crack of dawn to put in the time.

Photo and content credit: Jessica Saia - Author, Isla Murray - Photographer, Ryan Raphael - Designer, Ledora Francis - Stylist, Brian Blakley - Stylist

Drew DiSabatino is a viral writer for iVillage. Follow him on Twitter and Google+.

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