Archive: December 6th, 2007

Andy Fossum/Startraks

We all love to save a few bucks, especially around the holidays. With so many affordable, yet trendy options out there, even stars like Reese Witherspoon (in Simply Vera Vera Wang for Kohl’s), Jessica Biel and Kate Bosworth are getting in on the deals. But shopping for bargains in stores during this season can be a huge pain — between fighting for rack space and standing in line for dressing rooms, we start to wonder if it’s worth it. Want to know our secret? Instead of trolling our fave websites every day to see what’s discounted, we’ve signed up for their email alerts and newsletters to keep tabs on upcoming sales. Just remember to create a special email account so you don’t clog up your personal or work inbox. We did and it’s a lifesaver. Now we want to know what you do! Tell us: What’s your secret for finding good bargains?

Want your answer to appear in print? To have your comment considered for the next issue of PEOPLE’s StyleWatch, please INCLUDE your first name and last initial, your age and your hometown/state.

Courtesy Physicians Formula

As much as we love our chic coats and cozy sweaters, we do not love what winter does to our skin — dry and dull. And we’re not alone — our friends at BellaSugar have put together a great mini-list of the best brightening foundations, like this Physician’s Formula. Click here to check it out for yourself, and come back and tell us your skin tips for winter! How do you brighten up your face?

courtesy Benefit

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a special someone, Benefit Cosmetics has all the beauty goodies you could want for the holiday season. Get ready for your holiday parties with the 10 Palette, $28, a tiny compact that includes a powder duo that bronzes and highlights in one sweep, two seductive berry shades for lips and two glittering shadows for your eyes. Nothing is more festive than red lips — try Benefit’s silky finish lipstick, $16, for a shine that will last all night. For your glamorous best friend or fashionable sister get Best of Benefit: Iconic Classics gift set, $58 (a $74 value!), that features Benefit’s three most coveted products: BADgal mascara, dr. feelgood skin mattifier, and lip & cheek tint. Check out all Benefit’s goodies on their website benefitcosmetics.com and get into the holiday spirit!

Richard Young/Startraks

Emma Watson performed magic worthy of her Harry Potter character Hermione Granger at a dinner in London last night to honor Chanel artistic director Karl Lagerfeld. The 17-year-old star seemed to magically grow up in before our eyes, in classic head-to-toe Chanel and sophisticated ruby lips. We love that Emma chose such an elegant ensemble for the event, but we want to know what you think. Tell us: Do you like Emma’s chic, adult look? Or would you prefer it if she dressed more like a teen?

courtesy VictoriasSecret.com

Sure, you could shell out thousands for a glam designer tote, but why bother when some of the season’s hottest bags can be had for under $100. As part of our Ultimate Guide to Winter Fashion, we’ve hunted down the best budget bags out there. Click here to see our top picks.

INF; Michael Swarbrick/INF(2)

From Blake Lively’s Coach boots, to Leighton Meester’s designer dress, Gossip Girl has inspired our fashion choices a lot lately. And now that we’re in the market for a new winter coat, our fave show is providing inspiration again with an abundance of cute outerwear. We’ve got the girls’ looks for real — and for a steal!

Blake rocked Ever’s Los Feliz leather hoodie jacket, $715. Unfortunately, you can only get it in black, as the red was created especially for the show. Or get the look for less with this Lux Stay Golden Bomber, $128.

Taylor Momsen recently wore Lauren Moffatt’s Hooded Toggle Jacket, $541, pairing it with purple tights to really make it pop. If you like Taylor’s toggle coat, try this Esprit Toggle Coat, $142.

Leighton went more mod in Tory Burch’s Mercedes Trench, on sale now for $798 down from $1995. The patent navy blue is the perfect contrast to her red accent pieces. Try this Michael Michael Kors Patent Trench Coat, $199, for a gentler price.