Given the current economy, people are scrutinizing their purchases like never before, determined to get the most for their money. So when it comes to quality and value in clothing, consider the salient words of model/designer Kate Moss:

“I’m not really a fashion designer. I just love clothes. I’ve never been to design school. I can’t sketch. I can’t cut patterns and things.”

Thanks for the warning, Kate. Although plenty of celebrity labels produce quality work (Jessica Simpson comes to mind), it’s a little worrying to see the growing number of untrained celebrities taking jobs trained designers used to have. So, buyer, if not beware, at least pay attention.

If you’re paying next to nothing for something, you’re probably not looking for quality and have no plans to wear it beyond one season. If, on the other hand, you’ve selected a style you consider pricey, you may wonder if it’s worth the money. You want to wear it over several seasons, but has it been made well enough for that? There are definite basics to look for—like whether the seams are all sewn straight or if there are loose threads—but let’s take a closer look at what constitutes quality across three different price categories.

Higher Priced

Just like an Olympic dive, you get points for difficulty. Here we have a gorgeous, cloud-light Catherine Malandrino silk peasant blouse. (FYI, silk is notoriously challenging to work with, from cutting to sewing.) This top is fully lined (even the sleeves) in a hue-matched silk georgette. This creates a lovely opaqueness, leaving undergarments reasonably invisible. All seams are French, which means inside it looks beautifully finished. (In fact, some people think the real indicator of quality is how good a garment would look if you were to wear it inside out.)

The scalloped petals travel around the entire neckline. They were probably sewn together first, then applied in strips to the garment. Considering all those layers and the delicate silk fabric, it took some skilled sewing to do this.

The smocking style is unusual (not at all like a little girl’s pinafore), and that creates a pleasantly unexpected touch. Also, the neckline stretches so you can wear it on or off the shoulder. So what will you be paying for this kind of well-crafted beauty? $375.

Mid-Priced

For starters, this sleek Calvin Klein dress is lined. Lined garments are wonderful for a number of reasons. They’re much easier to slip on and off (because the lining fabric is generally slippery), they help the garment hold its shape, and the lining takes the brunt of the wear and tear, protecting the fashion fabric. The lining of this dress is tacked to the side seams down near the hem, which means it will stay in place, no riding up or twisting around you.

The tucks—which are the featured style detail—extend all the way around to the back. This may not seem like much, but frequently you see clothing that has details like pleats, prints and embellishment on the front only. A waggish blogger once referred to such styles as “coffin clothing.” So when design details are transferred to the back, that’s a good sign.

The dress also has a back vent. That’s vent, not slit. It’s a much more elegant touch and trickier to sew. The price for this elegant, modern classic piece? $129.

Lower Priced

Finally, we have this sweet and smart L.A. Kitty Jacket. It’s visible proof that a lower price doesn’t necessarily mean lower quality. It’s made from a sturdy cotton-blend jersey that holds its shape (although, admittedly, all that princess seaming helps). It’s a very feminine look, and that theme is carried throughout the garment. It has a fitted waist and back pleated peplum flare, and notice how the gathering on the collar echoes the gathering on the sleeve cap. They didn’t have to do that, but they did and it’s a very nice touch.

The jacket also has a back garment shield that helps keep sweat at bay. Contrast-faced cuffs are a clever, fashionable touch, and the rounded lapels, again, keep the look feminine. How much will this one put you back? A mere $38.

All of the above are exceptional pieces. Tastes and budgets come into play here, but none is a throwaway item. Take care of them, and they’ll take care of you. And it’s important to remember that clothes, like people, send messages with their appearance. Have some fun and wear me only once, or wear me and keep me. If you’re looking for a keeper, it’s all about learning to read the signals.

You’re right. It is too early to be blogging about Valentine’s Day. But in my defense, no sooner were December holiday goods whisked off the shelves than a rosy explosion of hearts took their place. It’s like Christmas now comes with a Valentine’s chaser. We get a good, long five or six weeks to contemplate the state of our love lives (oh joy!) and consume several pounds of chocolate. One way or another it’s a holiday that’s destined to make some of us feel bad about ourselves, single or married. What romantic feeling could possibly live up to the day’s besotted expectations? And, frankly, any holiday that’s had the word “massacre” tagged onto the end of it should probably be avoided altogether. At this point, like turning 50, I just want to get it over with.

A Brief History of (Valen)tine

One theory as to how the whole distressing day started has to do with an ancient Roman fertility festival. Young women placed their names in an urn, then young men would take turns selecting a name to be paired with. Apparently the two of them would be “in lerf” for the rest of the year. Yes, hard to believe, but Valentine’s Day started out as a kind of secret Santa thing. Then there was St. Valentine who, supposedly, while incarcerated and awaiting death wrote a goodbye letter to his jailer’s daughter and signed it, “Your Valentine.” The rest is greeting card history. Makes you wonder what would’ve happened had his name been “Spatula” or “Festering.”

Yes, Some of You Will Be Celebrating

But if you must celebrate Valentine’s Day, if you must go out, I suppose you must also have a killer dress to go out in. And what better look (and at what better price) than a $49 dazzler that’s also an Oprah pick! This Ellavie dress is a blazingly cheerful color and has rather elegantly handled gathering that creates enough drape to hide bulges. I also really like the front and back V-neck so you look sexy coming and going. I hate it when designers do nothing with the back of a garment (unless there’s nothing on the front). And let’s face it: if the date doesn’t work out, you’ve only spent 49 bucks on a dress you can wear outside of V-day. And if it does work out, you’ve established a wise and admirable pattern of thriftiness, which is always a good basis for building a lasting relationship.

Sort of in a particular order, these are 10 brands whose clothes consistently have made their way onto my wish list and into my closet in the time I’ve been at MyShape.

1. BCBG Max Azria

I feel like BCBG works this magic that turns trends into classics. The designers there really understand which innovations from the runway flatter a woman’s body and have the potential to stick around for a while. They’ve always got a perfect little black dress or two available, but they also use color and print expertly. I love what they’ve done lately with draping, color blocking and abstract motifs. Oh, and they also recently came up with this amazing pencil skirt that somehow makes elastic waist insets look haute.

2. Max & Cleo

You might already know this, but Max & Cleo is a division of BCBG that exclusively designs dresses at a lower price point than BCBG Max Azria. I had to talk about Max & Cleo too, though, because this line is just outstanding in its own right. They have some adorable vintage-inspired dresses on our site now with all sorts of pretty touches, from beautifully executed pleats and gathers to organza and lace detail that’s not in the least frou-frou.

3. Level 99

I love, love, love Level 99’s jeans. They’re so soft and stretchy, and I’m grateful that they often come in plain, dark washes since I’m not a fan of fading that makes my thighs and butt look larger. I’m also looking forward to seeing their new shorts for this spring and summer. I bought a pair of last year’s on sale and wore them to a beach picnic last weekend…super comfy and fine for walking a mile and a half through the streets of Santa Monica since they fall just above the knee.

4. Nanette Lepore

I’ve been a fan of Nanette Lepore ever since I first discovered her and bought a wool dress of hers that looks like it traveled straight out of the ’40s. And then I found out she still has her clothes manufactured locally (for her, in New York City’s Garment Center). How cool, and rare, is that? Check out the detail on the plaid skirt to the left. It’s a perfect example of the care that goes into Nanette Lepore’s pieces with the princess seaming in front and back, those adorable ruffles that fall just right and glossy high-quality buttons.

5. Betsey Johnson

When you think Betsey Johnson, you probably think bustiers, crinoline, oversized rose prints and skull motifs. Which is all fun and good…but there are also styles for those of us who want to try something playful that can still go to the office. I’m so impressed with the just-subdued-enough Betsey Johnson dresses we’ve had on our site lately, particularly styles 16328 and 16329, which are covered in jewel-toned blossoms.

6. L.A. Kitty

I had never even heard of L.A. Kitty jackets before I saw them on MyShape, but I was hooked the moment I found them. These babies are seriously comfortable and figure enhancing at the same time—typically fleece or plush with cute details like peplums and waist ties. Pretty impressive for under $50. (Yep, they usually run about $40 each.)

7. Nougat

This London-based brand always seems to give their clothing a little something extra—unique beading here, rows of pin tucks there, maybe a front or back keyhole opening. In short, Nougat makes every piece special. Their clothes also have a timeless quality even though they’re not your typical basics. Their silk blouses and camisoles are so feminine without being girlish.

8. Kersh

Kersh’s cardigans and boleros typically come in a range of colors, which is helpful if you’re trying to coordinate with a dress or top. They also tend to have ribbing or shirring that’s very flattering. Aside from their sweaters, Kersh makes versatile knit dresses and tops that aren’t particularly pricey, so they’re simply a great source for wardrobe basics.

9. Trina Turk

Trina Turk is another designer who knows just how to work with women’s curves, and she also uses a lot of beautiful saturated colors. I’m pretty picky about prints and don’t wear them often, but hers always look so tasteful yet unexpected to me. I’m even tempted by her brightest pieces because they mix hues so well.

10. Mac & Jac

There’s nothing like a smart tailored jacket or coat to pull your whole look together, and Mac & Jac does a superb job of crafting lightweight outerwear that’s easy to mix and match with your wardrobe. I most often find myself attracted to their jackets, but they have a full line including pants, skirts, blouses, sweaters and dresses, all with a look that’s trend conscious but still very versatile.

Posted by Heather at MyShape

Recently, we chatted with denim designer, Cookie Johnson, about CJ by Cookie Johnson and what motivated her to create a line of premium denim jeans. Shop CJ by Cookie Johnson now.

MyShape offers women clothing that fits and flatters every body shape. What inspired you to design a line of jeans? Especially since there seem to be so many premium denim styles out there already.

CJ by Cookie Johnson was born out of my frustration. I couldn’t find a premium jean that really fit my shape. I tried them all, but always left the dressing room feeling like they weren’t “me”. After doing some investigating and talking with good friends in the fashion world, I realized: it’s the industry. They cater to one body type. So it was my goal to create something versatile and flattering for real bodies.

MyShape was one of the first retailers to carry the line. What interested you about the MyShape concept?

I know MyShape has a great reputation for helping its customers find the right fit so it seemed like a natural partnership.

What makes a pair of jeans “the hot new look”?

The great thing about denim today is that anything goes. From wide legs to straight legs, boyfriend style to legging jeans… it’s all about how you style it. But it’s just as important to know that just because something is a hot trend, doesn’t mean it’s right for you specific body type.

In a crowded market, how were you able to differentiate your product?

Part of what makes CJ by Cookie Johnson such a special jean is the team I have working with me. Our designer, Joie Rucker, has unparalleled experience in denim. She was a designer for Guess, Levi’s and Rich & Skinny. Her knowledge about the subtleties of a woman’s frame and the way she incorporates that into CJ’s “design details” is really special. Also, my partner Michael Glasser is widely known as one of the founders of the premium denim trend, which started about 10 years ago. He created Seven and Citizens. He is a stickler for fabric, so everything we put out has an incredible fit and feel.

What do women love most about CJ?

The fact that they can feel sexy wearing jeans again. They don’t have to settle for “mom jeans”. I’ve seen women burst into tears in the dressing room because they are so happy to have finally found something.

Jean trends come and go. What makes CJ timeless?

It’s because we don’t overdo it. Our pockets are clean. Our denim isn’t too ripped or torn. It’s just beautifully fitting denim that goes with everything in your wardrobe.

Any fashion tips for MyShape members out there?

If you see someone with great style, it’s okay to mimic it. Sometimes we don’t know how to style an outfit, but we know we really love the jeans, the shoes or the top. My advice is go online to your favorite store and see how they pair things up, or check out what the magazines are suggesting. Just make sure that the person you are emulating is in your demographic. If you are 50, you don’t want to look 15 and vice versa. You want to look the best you can at your age. And be proud of it!

How does it feel to have designed Oprah’s favorite jeans?

Incredible. I know that she is a tough critic because she has her choice of brands being sent to her all the time. And I heard that she was skeptical about jeans to begin with. So, when I got the news that CJ not only made it on the cover of one of her magazine issues, but that she was going to share the news with her viewers, I had chills. I felt very proud of the product we’d created. But in truth, it feels great when any woman discovers CJ after being skeptical about jeans.

CJ fans rave about the comfort factor. What’s your secret?

We have stretch in every style. It’s a must. And thanks to Michael Glasser, my partner, our fabrics are second to none.

Shop CJ by Cookie Johnson now.

They’re here, they’re here!! Yes, I’m that excited about the fall 2009 cardigans from Charlotte Tarantola that have started showing up in my Personal Shop. Why twice the celebration and twice the exclamation marks? Because I already have my eye on two new Charlotte Tarantola sweaters, and there’s no way I can choose between them.

Oh, the antique-inspired details, the flattering ribbing and stretch, the beautiful buttons that never seem incidental…I can’t think of anyone who’s done quite what Charlotte has for the classic cardi. And if you’re thinking these devastatingly darling designs are just layering pieces, think again. Many have full-length button plackets and not-too-plunging necklines that make them perfectly wearable as tops as well, which is the number-one reason I’ve been investing in quality cardigans for years. They’re the ultimate wardrobe multitaskers.

The short-sleeved cable-knit style to the left could be layered over a tank, tee or pretty blouse, but it could work as a top with a pencil skirt and textured stockings, skinny jeans and flats or flared jeans and flip-flops. Though it’s not classified as a neutral, maroon is actually a very versatile color too. (I currently have a long-sleeved maroon cardigan that I wear with black, white, beige, brown, gray and even blue, green or gold.) Plus, check out those handy patch pockets—super for holding your apartment key while you take an early autumn walk. While this charming piece works nicely on an M like me, it’s also fabulous for A and H figures because of all the interesting detail that highlights the upper body.

As for the lace-trimmed number on the right, well, aside from being completely gorgeous and easy to coordinate with anything from a cocktail dress to bermudas, the contrasting placket and jet buttons create a slimming center line that’s very flattering on an M, S or H. The sleeves are ever-so-slightly puffed, adding to the look’s femininity without bulking up the shoulders, and the fabric is 3% spandex, giving it a nice curve-tracing stretch that’s also forgiving. A lightweight cardi like this can be folded up and placed in your purse when it gets too hot, so it’s a good choice for days that start out cool and turn into scorchers or if your office feels like the arctic when it’s 90 degrees outside.

June may be over, but the summer weddings have just begun. If you’re attending a formal or semi-formal event and aren’t sure what to wear, I recommend checking out our Jessica Howard collection. The variety of styles and level of quality offered by this designer are quite impressive considering most of the dresses are priced under $100. From shantung mother-of-the-bride gowns to sexy jersey dresses perfect for bridesmaids—but guaranteed to be worn again, and not to a Halloween party—Jessica Howard’s creations make special occasion style both easy and affordable. You’ll even find some amazing everyday looks among the party frocks. I bought my sister a knockout gray tweed Jessica Howard dress last December, and the first time she wore it to work, 13 people asked her where she got it! It looks like it came straight off a Mad Men set with its rolled collar and patent belt. I’m really hoping a similar style shows up this fall.

A flattering Jessica Howard pick for all shapes is the designer’s Ruffle-Hem Polka-Dot Dress, which creates a slimming effect with seaming and paneling while accentuating the waist with a ribbon tie. (Jessica Howard is all about creating a defined waistline, so many of her dresses incorporate sashes, belts or waist ruching.) This style could work for a day or evening event and could even be dressed down for the office with a cardigan; just remove the ribbon or rotate the bow to the back so it’s hidden under your sweater to avoid looking too cute for your cubicle. Jessica Howard’s Ruffle-Front Shirtdress reflects this season’s Graphic Edge trend with its chic color blocking, and the beautiful layered ruffles on the bodice look so graceful and contemporary. I really love this look because it separates the bust and hips while cinching the waist, emphasizing or creating the illusion of a curvy hourglass.

Ahhh…the perfect T-shirt. Yes, it’s such a hipster stereotype to be obsessed with your tissue-weight tees and to spend more on one of them than you earn in a day at your coffeehouse job. But once you’ve slipped a slouchy, organic-cotton masterpiece over your head, it’s also tough to go back to the less-than-premium fabrics you’ll find in a plastic-wrapped three-pack at your local big-box retailer. Who do we have to thank for elevating the T-shirt from nothing special to sinfully silky fashion statement? People like Greg Alterman, the founder and designer of Alternative Apparel, who started out selling T-shirts from his car.

Known for their earth-friendly textiles, such as “Eco-Heather,” “Eco-Vertigrain” and, of course, organic cotton, Alternative Apparel specializes in designing high-quality, lightweight tees in V-neck, crewneck and scoopneck silhouettes that stylishly skim the body. Since Alterman’s automobile beginnings, Alternative Apparel has also branched into manufacturing cardigans, tanks, drawstring pants, hoodies and other casual fashions. To promote their brand and sustainable living, Alternative Apparel has launched the Think Earth campaign as well. The company’s website features submissions from individuals (including Scarlett Johansson—nice work, guys!) and organizations explaining what they’re doing to help preserve our environment.

So you don’t have to guess which sizes and styles to add to your more eco-conscious wardrobe, MyShape has begun carrying Alternative Apparel fashions in our members’ Personal Shops. I personally adore the Debbie Tee for its feminine yet simple design with flutter sleeves, a curved hem and a scoopneck that’s very flattering on straight-shouldered gals like me. Plus it’s 100% pima cotton, which has extra-long, super-soft fibers and makes for incredibly comfortable jersey fabrics. This tee would go great with jeans, obviously, but it could also be tucked into a skirt, belted at the waist or worn with a fitted twill or denim vest.

We may be in the midst of a recession, but, call me a spendthrift, I’ve found it pretty difficult to give up my established clothes shopping habits. Come on, I work at MyShape…it’s tough to be surrounded by gorgeous designer dresses and brilliantly constructed jeans that make your tookis look fabulous without taking home a few favorites. And, after all, regardless of the economy, a woman still has to look polished and professional when the situation demands it, whether she’s off to her office or a job interview. Fortunately for my budget, this week our semi-annual sale is starting, and that means new markdowns on a pair of office-to-everywhere-else fashions from the ingenious Nanette Lepore.

Too often women’s suits appear boxy and masculine—which is fine if you’re into an androgynous ’80s look. For those of us who want the option to suit up without manning up, though, there are the curve-loving suits of Nanette Lepore. The real beauty of these dazzling duos is not just their couture-quality fit but also their adaptability. Take Nanette Lepore’s Shrink Me Jacket and Absinthe Skirt. When paired they form a perfectly pulled-together look, but each piece has its own personality and can be combined with other styles to create numerous day and evening ensembles. Heading out on a field trip to the children’s museum with your kindergartner’s class? Throw on a tank, denim Capris and a pair of flats, and top it all off with the jacket for a mommies-can-be-cool-too fashion statement. Snagged a few hours for a hot date with your hubby? Dress up the skirt with a flirty satin blouse, killer heels and a piece of jewelry with sentimental value.

In short: you can’t go wrong with a Nanette Lepore suit. Neither can I, which is why I’m making a strategic investment in these two smart pieces—unless you beat me to it and move them right off my wish list and into your shopping bag!

After years in exile as figure-slimming dark denim ruled women’s wardrobes, lighter washes have finally returned, and I’m not just talking about the acid-wash, ’80s-throwback jeans you thought had been banished for good. The freshest pale denim look—our fashion team has dubbed the trend “Crystal Blues”—is more polished and feminine and can be just as flattering as midnight-rinse jeans, with comfortable chambray and chambray-look fabrics making the most noticeable impact. These softer, typically lightweight textiles are perfect for summer shirts and dresses, including a super Cynthia Steffe dress we just received that I’m already coveting.

Cut from a linen-viscose blend that’s not technically chambray but rather a sleeker, more luxe look-alike, the Lois Dress by Cynthia Steffe takes vintage work-wear styling (think Rosie the Riveter and waitress dresses—remember those?) and beautifies the heck out of it with a curved collar, adorable sleeves, princess seaming and gathers galore. The tie belt’s also a big plus as far as I’m concerned since I’m an M and like to define my waistline, and the gold buttons are such a pretty accent to the pale color. Plus, with its denim look it’s easily paired with fun accessories—our model looks great with that bright floral scarf added to the mix! Aside from complimenting Ms, it’s recommended for women with S, H, P and E figures too because the V-neckline and slender lapels flatter a full bust, and the design visually separates the bodice, waist and hips.

If you adore this Cynthia Steffe dress as much as I do, this is the perfect time to snatch it up before it’s gone—through Wednesday, MyShape members with Personal Shops can take 25% off regular-priced dresses* when they enter the code YESDRESS at checkout. With the discount you’d save $81.25 off this fab piece and be way ahead of the fashion curve!

*Terms apply. See details.

If you’re wondering why all those linen separates are appearing at the top of your Apparel section when you sign in to your Personal Shop, it’s because this week we’re announcing the arrival of Eileen Fisher at MyShape. You may already be familiar with Fisher’s eco-friendly fashions, but the company’s social consciousness initiatives actually extend far beyond green manufacturing. While researching the Eileen Fisher brand, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that they adhere to strict fair-labor standards for the production of all of their clothing, they have grant programs to support non-profits and women entrepreneurs, they donate to local community organizations…and the list goes on. I have to say I’m really proud we’re carrying their line.

And the clothes? Super-high quality. Right now we have Eileen Fisher tops, tunics, cardigans and pants styles on our site, and they’re all made of linen woven into various textures with beautiful drape. The color palette is muted and versatile, making pairing the pieces with each other or clothes you already own a no-brainer, and the design details—shawl collars, gathers, pintucks and pretty, delicate buttons—express a sophisticated simplicity.

Among my favorite pieces is Eileen Fisher’s Linen Pintuck Tunic, which flatters all shapes. I’ve been seeing gauzy pintuck tunics all over the place lately—in fact, my cousin bought one last weekend when we were out shopping together, changed into it that evening and was immediately complimented by our aunts, one of whom started gushing about how much she loves gauzy linen that doesn’t cling to her body. (One of the best things about Fisher’s cool and comfy linen styles? In addition to being agelessly classic, they suit every age group. I could just as easily imagine my Baby Boomer aunt wearing them as I could my Gen-Y cousin.) The Eileen Fisher version of the pintuck tunic feels very feminine with its scoopneck and long row of tiny mother-of-pearl buttons. It’s easily matched with Eileen Fisher’s Linen Basketweave Cropped Pants or Slim Organic Linen Cropped Pants, but I think it would also work well with leggings and a belt or with skinny or bootcut jeans.