Admission: I haven’t watched the eighth season premiere episode of Project Runway—yet. I’ve never missed a season of the show though, so rest assured that the July 29 premiere is waiting patiently on my DVR. While I haven’t checked out the new 90-minute episode (more Tim Gunn—yes, please!) or made my early winner predictions, I have kept up on this season’s news.

If you watched the premiere, perhaps you noticed that the Bluefly Accessories Wall is no more. This season, Project Runway (airing on Lifetime Thursdays at 9 pm et/pt) has teamed up with Piperlime to bring you the aptly named (and newly green-hued) Piperlime Accessories Wall.

When it comes to Bluefly vs. Piperlime, I won’t pick sides. Followers of this blog know that while I often feature Piperlime products here, I also have a bit of an ongoing love affair with Bluefly, as evidenced here, here and here. But what I will say is that the Piperlime Accessories Wall comes with one big added bonus: It’s shopable!

The same accessories that the designers use to bedeck models stomping down the Project Runway, um, runway, are also available for purchase on Piperlime. (You can also visit Piperlime.com for exclusive, behind-the-scenes footage from the show each week.) Just what I need—more reason to procrastinate whilst frequenting the shopping site.

I’ve visited the shopable Piperlime Accessories Wall, and I must say, it’s a tasty treat for uber-fans and regular shoppers alike. I couldn’t resist sharing which accessories I’d pick if I was, you know, an ultra-talented designer on a reality TV show. As you can see, I gravitated to the neutral-hued pretties. Which accessories from the wall are your faves?

1. Metal Fringe Necklace, Kenneth Cole (piperlime.com): This mixed-chain necklace has the kind of tough-girl charm I can’t resist. Wouldn’t it pair perfectly with a frilly, flowing feminine dress?

2. Full Frame Clutch, Abas (piperlime.com): So slim and ladylike, this clutch is thin enough to stash in any bag and pretty enough to carry on its own for a night on the town. Plus, with tons of card slots, pockets and even space for a pen, it’s the ideal wallet.

3. Marisela Oxford in Slate Suede, Hive and Honey (piperlime.com): Oh, how I love an oxford shoe! I’d buy a pair of these now and stash them away for the fall, when I would pair them with every pair of tights (in every hue imaginable!) that I’m dying to wear once the seasons change.

4. Santogold Shoulder Bag, Matt & Nat (piperlime.com): The synthetic suede of this vegan shoulder bag is as buttery as real leather and as perfectly pink as cotton candy. What’s not to love?

5. Beige Multi Strand Necklace, Hive and Honey (piperlime.com):Ever since I laid eyes on the J.Crew summer catalogue, I’ve been absolutely obsessed with tear-drop bead necklaces. Don’t you just adore the wheat-colored beads?

6. Meris Boot, Michael Antonio (piperlime.com): The studs, the straps and the tan hue—perfection! Even if you aren’t model tall or model skinny, these stunners will give you legs for days.

(Images: Elizabeth Ulrich)

I love gold jewelry, but when it comes to actually adding to my collection, a piece has to meet three rules: It can’t be too precious, too fussy or too expensive. I prefer pieces that either have an earthy, organic vibe or have a bit of an edge. And, of course, it never hurts if a bracelet, ring or pair of earrings looks like nothing I’ve seen on a million other ladies—or at least among my circle of friends.

This is why I love the accessories at Shopbop.com. They’re reasonably priced, and thanks to an impeccably curated selection, I tend to want to snatch up everything I see. Really—it’s that good.

When I recently lost my favorite chunky gold and turquoise ring (full disclosure: I left it on a sink in the bathroom of an ice cream shop—woe is me!), I found myself gazing longingly at potential new replacements at Shopbop. Of course, one thing led to another, and I decided to share some of my favorite finds with all of you.

1. Sand Dollar Stud Earrings, Gorjana (shopbop.com): The imperfectly perfect organic shaping gives these sand dollar earrings a charm that is just as warm and carefree as a summer day spent seaside.

2. Giraffe Ring, Alkemie Jewelry (shopbop.com): I have a soft spot for stunning oddities, so this giraffe ring made quick work of finding a spot in my heart. With its intricate details and eclectic feel, this reclaimed metal ring (yay for environmental responsibility!) is just so special. Not to mention, Shopbop is now offering this piece at a 30 percent discount.

3. Stake Stud Earrings, Giles & Brother (shopbop.com): Don’t let the bad-girl punk feel of these diamond-shaped earrings fool you. They may be modeled after spikes, medieval armor and tough pieces of the like, but they would fit right in with your most preppy button-ups and most posh cashmere.

4. Branch Ring, Jacquie Aiche (shopbop.com): Like an unearthed fossil or a piece of gorgeously shaped driftwood washed ashore, this gold-vermeil ring with textured branch detail is a find that deserves to be treasured. Wouldn’t it make for a striking and unconventional engagement ring?

5. Art Deco Bangle Set, Jules Smith (shopbop.com): When I see a stack of standard bangles, one word typically comes to mind: meh. However, with an unpredictable square shape and bracelets of varying thickness, this towering stack of 18 bangles—all 14k gold-plated—are worth a second look.

In celebration of my 100th blog post here at Extrabux (which almost slipped by without my notice last week—you can read my very first post here), I thought we could celebrate with a virtual picnic in the park. Want to join me? I made sure to save you a spot on my picnic blanket.

How will you find me? I’ll be the one lazing contently with a book while wearing this festive yet entirely unfussy look. You see, I’ve chosen my outfit carefully for our little get-together. Don’t you love the ease of cargo shorts and flats with a girlie top? I’ve chosen pieces sure to become the summer staples that you’ll wear out before summer’s end—they’re just that versatile. So tell me, how will I spot you on our virtual picnic? What is your favorite casual, warm-weather party look?

Clockwise from top left:

1. Stackable Rings, Gorjana (piperlime.com): A cocktail ring can feel a bit too precious at laid-back parties. But this stackable set of textured rings? Just the perfect amount of sparkle.

2. Printed Silk Camisole, Aqua (bloomingdales.com): The print of this lightweight silk top calls to mind stained glass and butterfly wings. Dress it down with distressed cargo shorts for day, and then pair it with skinny jeans and heels after dark.

3. Benji’s Linen Cargo Shorts, Free People (piperlime.com): Cargo shorts in lightweight linen are irrefutably comfortable and slightly crumpled to perfection. This mocha-colored version from Free People is the ideal counterbalance to a feminine top.

4. Tomboy Jean Jacket, 7 for All Mankind: Balance out the sweetness of a bejeweled necklace and a silky top with a fitted jean jacket, which you’re destined to reach for on cool summer nights and wear (and wear and wear) once the warm months say their goodbyes.

5. Wreath Pendant Necklace, Banana Republic (bananarepublic.com): Would you believe me if I said that this prized piece is less than $30?

6. Happy Trails Messenger, Lucky Brand (piperlime.com): This is the cross-body bag that you can take almost anywhere. Its durable canvas makes it ideal for weekend jaunts, but its styling elevates it above outdoorsy.

7. Toffee Espadrille in Orange, Mia (piperlime.com): In the summer, I’m too blissfully busy to be bothered with teetering around town in any kind of heel or wedge. Between the woven raffia detailing and sherbet-colored canvas of these espadrilles, I think I’ve found my summer love.

8. Basic Leather Belt, Old Navy (oldnavy.com): Every girl needs a classic belt, and at a smidge more than $15, this one certainly fits the bill.

When it comes to flowers, is there anything not to love? A floral dress, shoe or accessory is remarkably versatile for a print. Combine a floral skirt with a striped top, and you’ve got quirky cool. Worn with a blue jean jacket, a simple tee and flats, the same skirt is so classic summer casual.

The lesson here? Florals are your friend. And these mini-floral pieces from Gap, well, consider them your besties. So go ahead and give in to the lure of the sun-washed hues and feminine blooms in these Gap pieces. I’ll gladly share my floral-print summer love with you.

Listed clockwise from the top left:

1. Floral Roll-Up Shirt in Pink, Gap (gap.com): This fitted button-up in rosy floral hits laid-back pretty square on the mark. For a devil-may-care summer vibe, pair it with well-worn, rolled-up jean cutoffs and strappy flats. In the fall, just add a pair of boyfriend jeans, a cozy cardigan and suede booties. Don’t you simply heart a top for all seasons?

2. Pleated Floral Skirt in Blue, Gap (gap.com): Oh, how I just adore a skirt with pockets. And the flirty flounce? Le sigh. The fluttery flow is more forgiving than you might imagine. When you top it off with a fitted tee—tucked into your skirt to emphasize your waistline and to show off the fun bow detail—you will, indeed, achieve summer style perfection.

3. Floral Empire Tank Dress, Gap (gap.com): For any figure flaws, the empire dress is a girl’s best friend. This mini-floral, melon-hued cutie is so romantic and retro, don’t you think? Plain and simple, this fanciful dress was made for a turn on the dance floor at outdoor weddings and summer fêtes.

4. Reversible Market Tote in Purple Jewel, Gap (gap.com): This super-soft, shoulder-friendly cotton bag features iris-colored flowers on one side and white-on-green blooms on the other. Two sweet totes for $15? That’s what I call an irresistible summer special. This bag is perfect for quick trips to the farmer’s market or days spent lounging along the shoreline. But I’m pretty sure that I would take mine just about anywhere, turning it inside out and back again as whim dictated.

5. Light Patchwork Floral Scarf in Fall Navy, Gap (gap.com): While I relish the arrival of summer, I do mourn the loss of my favorite scarves, which I typically stow away in the closet until the first hint of autumn. With this super-airy patchwork number, I will no longer suffer scarf separation anxiety.

6. Design Editions Floral Bow Wedge Sandals, Gap (gap.com): Goodness gracious these wedges are adorable. The oversized bow, which is kissed with a subdued mini-floral print, is remarkably playful and feminine. And the nude-colored straps and wedge soles? So on trend and so very flattering—we’re talking amazingly long-looking legs here, ladies! These sandals are begging for attention, so prepare for the compliment onslaught that is sure to ensue.

Sunglasses serve important style and health purposes (leave me alone, UV rays!), but who says the cost of your sunnies should be roughly equivalent to a car payment? I don’t know about you, but I would much rather allot such dough for other summer dream items, like a sweet new beach cruiser.

Besides, if you’re anything like me, you cycle through at least one (okay, two or three) pairs of sunglasses each season. In my case, some are lost to the sand dunes or the waves or the abyss of my purse. Others I sit on, step on or otherwise demolish in embarrassing and unusual ways, thanks to my clumsy tendencies. These horrible happenstances are the exact reasons why I L-O-V-E a pair of cheap sunglasses—you don’t cry or feel guilty when you accidentally part ways with them.

Well, that and the fact that when shades are this cheap, you feel more free to experiment. The sunglasses featured here are bright, bold and ideal for some lighthearted summer fun. And best of all: They’re all less than $25—and one pair is just a smidge more than $5! With such steals, why not buy a few pairs? After all, summer has just officially begun. There is still plenty of warm-weather cuteness—and let’s face it, accidental sunglasses breakage—to be had.

Listed clockwise from the top left:

1. Millie Sunglasses, Alloy (alloy.com): These tortoise-shell sunglasses are so very polished. Pair them with a carefree top-knot coiffe for a sleek and effortless stylish weekend look.

2. Butterfly Designer Style Sunglasses, 80s Purple (80spurple.com): As a former biology nerd and once-carrier of a bug net, I almost squealed when I found these shades. The butterfly shape of the frame and gradient lenses is a subtle but sweet surprise.

3. Cat’s Eye Sunglasses in Red, Old Navy (oldnavy.com): The just-bitten-cherry-red hue is an irresistibly fun and flirty take on the ever-flattering cat’s eye look.

4. Aviator Sunglasses in Yellow, Abbey Dawn (kohls.com): Leave it to pop star Avril Lavigne—and her Abbey Dawn line at Kohl’s—to infuse a bit of life in the wholly timeless look of the aviator. Something about this neon take on the popular classic feels a bit futuristic and entirely rebellious.

5. Ombré Sunglasses, Victoria’s Secret (victoriassecret.com): The ombré shading on these frames is an unexpected, modern take on a classic shape. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, these lookers also come in green/navy and pink/purple color combos.

Listed clockwise from the top left:

1. Floral Framed Sunglasses, Charlotte Russe (charlotterusse.com): The smattering of sweet flowers along the outside of the frame is unexpected without being overwhelming or silly. Unabashedly girlie—and at about $5, an entirely justifiable experiment.

2. Metal-Trim Sunglasses, Victoria’s Secret (victoriassecret.com): The vintage appeal of these shades is irresistible. They just ooze a downtown, city girl vibe. Can’t you imagine popping these on with your boyfriend jeans and a pair of oxfords?

3. Cassie Sunglasses, dELiA*s (delias.com): The oversized lenses make this pair of sunglasses chic, and the tortoise shell lends and oh-so-classic feel. You’ll sport these glamorous sunnies year round.

Okay, it seems as if my nautical crush may need to be officially upgraded to obsession status. I finally gave in and bought a navy-and-white-striped cotton dress (which I would link to here if it hadn’t completely sold out at Old Navy, where I nabbed it for less than $10—serious sale!). And now I’m on the hunt for accessories with rope details. Too much nautical in one outfit, you say? Nah, I love a theme.

There is something about summer and trips to the beach that make rope details so appealing. Maybe my obsession stems from my beach-combing-filled days on the Gulf Coast as a child. Or perhaps the look is simply fresh in my mind because fleet week just wrapped in these parts (why hello there, sailor!).

Even if you’re landlocked—or simply not ready to don a head-to-toe nautical look—rope-detailed accessories are a perfect way to dip your toes into the water. Part quirky and whimsical, part classic, the pieces I’ve highlighted here are sure to become your summer basics. Plus, they’re further proof that you don’t have to wear stripes (or even salute the captain) to infuse your everyday look with nautical charm.

1. All Knotted Up: Sigh. I can’t stop staring at these leather and rope platforms by Cynthia Vincent. I must admit, they’re a little out of my price range—though I’m sure the splurge would certainly be worth it. Those wood-grain-looking heels! That tobacco-colored leather! And those intricate knots! My mister, a former boyscout, caught a glimpse of these shoes as I was putting this post together and was seriously impressed with the knot skills. What can I say? The man knows fashion. Tobacco Leather Isla Rope Detail Sandals, Cynthia Vincent (bluefly.com).

2. Sucker for this Fabric: Seersucker is such a quintessential summer fabric—light and easy with just a dab of cute prep. And these shorts are the perfect length (read: short enough to show off your shimmering summer gams but long enough to hide your, ahem, goodies). Not to mention the rope belt, which is just plain fun. Can’t you imagine pairing these with the softest heather gray tank or a sun-bleached floral top? Summer perfected! Shilo Seersucker Shorts, Tory Burch (saks.com).

3. Sea-Worthy Wrist: Real rope accessories not your thing? What about this oh-so-chic woven leather bracelet from Bottega Veneta? It’s simple and artistic—a far cry from the bracelets you wove at summer camp—and sure to pop against your tan arms. Woven Leather Bracelet, Bottega Veneta (saks.com).

4. Gladiator Meets Nautical: At times, I’m a wee bit tired of seeing gladiator sandal after sandal. But there is just so much to love about this sandal—the cork-like wedge, the knotted rope detail, the hint of metallic shimmer woven throughout. How great would these look on your sun-kissed sea legs? Bonus: The padded insole and mini-wedge heel makes them ideal for running errands—or for propping up your feet on the docks. Cindy Rope Style Gladiator, Libby Edelman (hsn.com).

5. Bag Fit for a Sailor: This canvas foldover bag is big enough to accommodate all of your goodies—swimsuit, sunscreen, towel, summer reads—when you set sail on the open sea (or pack for a lazy day on the beach). With 100 percent canvas lining and a sturdy rope shoulder strap, this bag is low maintenance through and through. Simply empty, shake out the sand and you’re back in business. Plus, peek inside and you’ll find the most merry lining in sunny shade of yellow. Canvas Foldover, SR Squared by Sondra Roberts (piperlime.com).

I think we can count jewelry designer Wendy Culpepper as a friend of this blog of ours, can’t we? You remember Wendy—you met her a few months back when I cooed about her trend-transcending rings. Well, I suppose you could say that I’m still in the honeymoon phase with the New York designer. And if that’s the case, then Wendy Culpepper’s new line of apple-inspired jewelry has done nothing but bolster this young love.

How absolutely sweet are these new pieces? Sweeter than the first bite of a perfectly plump pink lady apple, I’m sure. The line is inspired by the energizing and hopeful buzz of the Big Apple, the fantastical wonderland of Snow White and memories of fall days with her mister in New England (so charming!).

You may recall that I find fruit-inspired fashion so very alluring, which makes these apple lookers all the more tempting. Fruit is cute, but as Wendy Culpepper is so very aware, the appeal of the apple isn’t always so sweet. Those Twilight lovers know that the apple is symbolic of a tempestuous affair. And Adam and Eve? Say no more.

That duality is what makes Wendy Culpepper’s new Forbidden Collection so tempting. You see, we all look at apple imagery so differently. While I think the Apple 14K Gold Diamond Necklace would make a stellar graduation gift for any lovely lady (and, of course, any Twilight fan), you may think your apple-a-day mother or even your secret lover would also look stunning with the apple resting near her collarbone.

To make that first bite all the more enticing, every piece in the Forbidden Collection is kissed with Wendy Culpepper’s signature simple, understated touch. All of the designs featured here are ripe for the plucking at wendyculpepper.com.

A few of my faves, listed clockwise from the top left:

1. Forbidden Apple 14K Gold Diamond Necklace.
2. Apple 14K Gold Diamond Necklace.
3. Apple 14K Gold Earrings.

(Product Images: Wendy Culpepper, Photo: Amy Loves Yah)

I need a purse that I can sling on my shoulder. If my bag is not somehow attached to my body, who knows what will happen to it? Well, actually, I do know. I’ll lose it. I’ll leave it on restaurant tables, coffee shop counters and anywhere else my hands deem fit to relieve themselves of the responsibility.

That being said, you can see why I’ve always been a diehard shoulder-bag carrier. If there isn’t something bulky, heavy and typically colorful hanging from my shoulder, I feel naked. But, in light of the chain-strap bag trend, I’m starting to reconsider the big, old unwieldy purse part. Tell me, how darn cute are these bags?

They’re the perfect out-and-about purses. Many of them are ideal for crossbody use, which makes them all the more simple and accessible. So, let us count the ways in which we adore them, shall we? Well, the chains add a nice glinty spark to your look without hiding your outfit. Plus, these purses are much smaller than your average shoulder bag, which means no neck pain or awkward leaning.

They’re also sized just right for your essentials (phone, wallet, lip gloss, etc.)—no over-packing or mess-making allowed. And, if you’re going out, you don’t have to worry about leaving it on a table, fighting with it on the dance floor or wrestling with it as you enjoy your cocktail. And, finally, because the crossbody, chain-strap bag is so hot right now, there a plenty of pretties to choose from.

My faves, clockwise starting from the top left, are:

1. Little Bag Blue: This leather bag’s turquoise hue may be sweet, but the pyramid studs definitely lend a good dose of rocker edge. Runaway Simone, Tylie Malibu (eBags.com).

2. The Gun(metal) Show: This crossbody purse is very tribal-meets-rock-and-roll. Can’t you picture this bag paired with a very girlie dress or sweet floral tank? Picadillly Crossbody Bag, Carlos by Carlos Santana (macys.com).

3. Not Your Granny’s Quilted Purse: I still can’t decide how to categorize this purse. It’s quilted, which is oh-so-traditional. But the studs rough it up, and the tassels make it feel a bit boho. Whatever it is, I love it. Quilting Bee Crossbody Bag, Rachel Rachel Roy (macys.com).

4. The Essential Everyday Bag: With its brown leather trim, this bag has a masculine feel—one that calls to mind the look of a vintage case for a camera or pair of binoculars. How perfect would it be for your daily city adventures? Mini Crossbody Bag, Junior Drake (nordstrom.com).

5. Chic and Simple: Kate Spade knows how to make understated look so luxe and gorgeous. This goathide bag, which reminds me of the frothy foam on top of an espresso, is timeless and can be dressed up or down with ease. Villa Bridget, Kate Spade.

(Image: Elizabeth Ulrich for Extrabux.com)

This spring is all about the Target-designer collaboration. First there was Liberty of London, which arrived with furniture, clothes, accessories—you name it—all bathed in to-die-for floral prints. Now, it’s time for all of this Target collaborative goodness to, quite literally, go to your head.

I’m talking Eugenia Kim for Target, a collection of hats that are so chic and charming, you’ll awake each morning with fingers crossed for a bad hair day. Not familiar with milliner-to-the-stars Eugenia Kim?

Well, here’s a quick designer dossier: Kim has designed hip hats for the likes of Madonna, Jennifer Lopez and Nicole Richie. Typically, her quirky toppers sell for an average of $200 at Barneys, Neiman Marcus and her own New York showroom.

However, her new line of fashionable lids for Target, which debuts on April 18, will sell in stores and online for anywhere from $15 to $20. Yes, you read that right. We’re talking summery, designer hats at less than one tenth of the typical going rate for Kim’s creations. Get excited.

As you can see from the hats featured here, the line is oh-so beach ready. Just add a swimsuit, some sunscreen and a body of water, and you have instant summer style. Given Kim’s liberal use of woven straw and fabrics, it’s no surprise that her inspiration for the Target collaboration was old Cuba. While creating the line, the designer told Fast Company that she was “obsessed with the old-school Latin resort thing.”

Oh, to sip fruity frozen cocktails at a Latin resort with one of these beauties sitting atop my beachy locks. A girl can dream! In the meantime, I’ll be snagging one (maybe two!) to wear poolside this summer.

My picks for cutest in the bunch are in the first group pictured above, including the minty straw number (love that contrasting black and white ribbon!) and the straw fedora that boasts stand-out stitching and that cute little parrot detail.

So, tell me: Which one are you dying to get your pretty little hands on this spring?

At this point in life, I’m not a globetrotter or a jetsetter (more like a renter and bill payer). And, while I can’t indulge in African safaris or Australian walkabouts, I can splurge on some wardrobe pieces worthy of a world traveler.

That’s why I am absolutely in L-O-V-E with this season’s tribal trend. With all of the turquoise, gems, beads, leather and lace-up detail in today’s grouping of sandals from Piperlime, what’s not to love about tribal-inspired footwear?

Instead of going all out with a tribal-print maxi dress, dip your pretty toes into this trend with subtle tribal touches in your footwear. The embellishments in these ethnic sandals certainly pop, but the neutral colors and small doses of dazzling pattern keep this look oh-so-wearable.

Yes, I know. You’re the kind of lady who likes to buy one pair of standard black or brown flip flops and call it spring. But isn’t spring all about rebirth? Ditch the plain-Jane, standard slip-ons and breathe some life into your typical warm-weather shoe selection.

All of these lovelies can be scored at Piperlime for less than $80 (well, except for the first splurge-worthy pair—I couldn’t help myself!):

1. Elizabeth and James Blair Sandal in Black Suede: This pair is the priciest in the bunch, but aren’t they dreamy? Those ankle cuffs are absolutely dripping in 360 degrees of gems—we’re talking gorgeous, chunky stones from back to front and around again.

2. Very Volatile Fireworks Sandal: Ideal for those who don’t want too much tribal in their tribal trend, these gladiator-inspired sandals are so perfectly neutral. But don’t let the palate fool you. With an intricate basket-weave detail and lovely lace-up cuffs, these sandals are far from bland.

3. Charles by Charles David Motif Flat Sandal: I’m a sucker for a good red and turquoise color pairing. These multi-colored t-straps are everything a great statement necklace should be: enviably bold and irresistibly alluring. Consider them all the below-the-knee jewelry you’ll ever need.

4. RJ Girl Lilac Sandal: With the wooden beads and sparkling silver details, these sandals are all about natural beauty. They’re also the cheapest among today’s tribal selection, but would you have guessed it if I hadn’t spilled all? Didn’t think so.

5. Chocolat Blu Noa Sandal: Love the shimmery beading and sequins. Heart the intermittent shocks of coral stones. But I want to marry the elasticized heel panels. After all, what’s the fun in a striking sandal that makes you squeal with the “I haven’t broken these in yet” type of misery?