No Swimsuit Nightmares Here

The unofficial start of summer is here. So that means it's time to shop for a bathing suit, right? HA, I'd sooner die. If you are anything like me, and not quite ready to take the plunge (yet or ever) it's time to go shopping for a cover-up! It's by far my new favorite beach/pool accessory.

I've been shopping around and there are all kinds of great ones out there, but my favorite, and most affordable, is Old Navy's Metallic-Gauze Swim Cover-Up. It's only $24.50 and comes in four great colors. Check out all of Old Navy's swim accessories too.

So I'm putting my bikini nightmares to rest and investing in some great cover-ups, so I can feel cool and confident pool side this summer.

Home Sweet Home

I'm a firm believer that your home should be your sanctuary. It should also be a reflection of how you live, and house all the things that make you happy.

Though I only live in a small four-room apartment, I'm constantly seeking out items to add to my home that make me feel comfortable and happy to be there. One of my biggest investments was my bed and each year I buy a new set of high-thread count sheets to not only envelope me while I sleep, but to subtly change or update my room. Besides the bedroom, anything (small or large) can instantly update a space. A vase, a bowl, art, candles, if a store had a home section, I'm there lifting, touching, smelling.

I just discovered a catalog called Acacia. Not sure how long they've been around or how I even got on this mailing list, but I really like this company. According to their Web site, Acacia "provides distinctive, nature-oriented products to enhance customers' enjoyment of their surroundings, and to improve their appearance and well-being." Many of their products are eco-friendly and I think it's a great go-to place to find a gift for the person who seems to have everything.

I'm not much for new-age, zen-type things - but i just loved so much as I was flipping through, that I had to share!

One of my favorite items is this Peonies Coir Doormat ($39.95). It's not only beautiful, but it's woven from natural coconut fiber, which makes it functional, trapping dirt and standing up to all kinds weather.

Look for more posts about items for the home, coming soon!

Charming Accessories

Out of all the things to shop for, jewelry is by far my favorite. I'm a Pisces (the fish) so maybe I was just born to be lured by flashy, shiny objects. To me, jewelry is wearable art. My favorite book is Elizabeth Taylor's "My Love Affair with Jewelry." I could shop all day long for rings, bracelets, necklaces, watches - you name it - and I have no qualms about buying it for myself. Ladies, if you love something (and you can afford it), please don't wait for a man to buy it for you. Sure, jewelry makes for a great gift, but if you really love a piece, buy it for yourself and wear it with pride. You deserve it.

Another thing about jewelry (much like shoes)....it always fits! So even if you put on a few pounds, your classic strand of pearls and diamond studs always look great. But lets be real, if jewelry has a downside, it's that it can be expensive. I'll admit, I've spent more than I should have (on more than one occasion) on pieces that I had to have. Investment pieces, ones I'll wear forever - a right hand diamond ring about six years ago, diamond hoops two summers ago, a Gucci watch last winter, and most recently, a Judith Ripka ring that makes me smile every time I see it.

But this is Luxe for Less, and though when it comes to jewelry it's hard for me to practice what I preach, not every item I own (or desire) rivals my rent. My jewelry box is filled with pieces that didn't break the bank; pieces that I reach for day after day.

Just recently, I've been experimenting more and more with fashion jewelry. One of my favorite trends right now are charm bracelets and necklaces. They're whimsical and fun. I love how they jingle when you move and something about them makes me feel a little more girly.

Walk through Nordstom, Neimans or Tiffany and I guarantee you'll find some charming pieces for $300, even $3,000, but here are a few that I love...each under $25.

Right now Urban Outfitters has a ton of charming accessories. This Destination Charm Necklace ($24 ) comes in six different destinations, including Paris, California and Venice. Each 20" necklace contains a jumble of charms highlighting each location. So whether you've been to London or just wish to get there some day, this necklace is sure to be a conversation starter.

If you're looking for something more delicate, check out this Genuine Stone Charm Necklace ($22.50) at Express.com. It comes in five different colors/gems so you're sure to find one that fits. And right now, many accessories at Express.com are buy one, get one 50% off.

Charm bracelets have been charming their owners for decades. Some are so personal, they get passed down from generation to generation, telling the stories of the women who wore them. But if this is not your story, there are hundreds of ready-made options to choose from. I found this Rhinestone Charm Bracelet with toggle clasp ($4) at CharlotteRusse.com. Don't let the price tag fool you, these are sizeable charms of all different shapes and textures. Throw this on with a pair of jeans and a fitted tee and you're instantly dressed.

Normally when I think of a charm bracelet, I think links. But this iLuck Heart with Peace Bracelet ($24 at shopintuition.com) is a casual twist to the charming trend. This comes in four different colors (I secretly want them all), and I love the adjustable, stretch. I think this also makes a great gift. Peace and love...what a wonderful message to share.

Welcome to Luxe for Less!

My name is Catherine and I am a style junkie. (Reader response: "Hi Catherine.") Shopping is my sport. I read all the magazines, search the latest blogs, hunt for new accessories, and of course, adore all the high-end labels. But as much as I would love to, the reality is I can't afford a $3,000 handbag, a $800 coat, or $550 shoes. And neither can my friends.

This blog is my answer to the fashion magazines that I devour month after month. InStyle, W, Lucky, Harper's Bazaar, Vogue - I love you all, I'll continue to read you, but you're killing me! OK, so you devote two pages a month to "Fashion finds under $100." Thank you. But not all "cheap chic" is found at H&M and Target. There are thousands of stores, boutiques, indy designers, and Web sites that have the style items we crave without running the risk of being evicted because we bought a new cocktail dress.

SO, style junkies unite! I look forward to sharing my finds with you...clothes, shoes, accessories, home decor, gifts and more. I also look forward to hearing from you. E-mail me at luxe4less@comcast.net.