This Mother’s Day, a memorable gift doesn’t have to cost a fortune. No matter if you’re shopping for your mom, wife, or female role model in your life, the following gifts will surely bring a smile to her face! Show her the love and respect that she deserves with these thoughtful gifts under $100!

Unique Fashion

Unique fashion finds are hard to come by, but with the new Rotem Gear LE collection, you’ll find handcrafted artisan items that mom will absolutely adore! LA based designer Jean Roth has expanded her eclectic assortment of graphic tees to launch this limited edition line of tops, cardigans, and scarves that are inspired by the beauty of nature.

This Burgundy Scarf ($32) is made of soft, silky pima cotton, and the delicate Agapanthus design is derived from Roth’s own botanical photography.

What also makes this a GAL find? This luxurious scarf (in green) was recently gifted to the most stylish celeb mom on the planet, Sarah Jessica Parker! Use my exclusive coupon code GALKARA to save 10% through May 13^th!

Natural Beauty

Give mom the gift of natural beauty that gives back, with Josie Maran’s 100% Pure Argan Oil Model Citizen Editions ($52). The eco-conscious beauty mogul has teamed up with her closest model friends to create three limited edition versions of her most popular product.

Maran’s revolutionary Argan Oil is luxurious, lightweight, and 100% organic, and can be used to moisturize, heal and condition everything from your face and body, to cuticles and spilt ends. Maran, along with supermodels Petra Nemcova and Angela Lindvall, designed special artwork for bottles of her 100% Pure Argan Oil.

For every bottle purchased, 10% of the proceeds go to organizations in need, including Women for Women International, Happy Hearts Fund, and Healthy Child Healthy World. Each Model Citizen purchase also comes with a bonus gift from the Josie Maran Cosmetics collection!

Heart Healthy Chef

The American Heart Association’s “Go Red For Women” campaign has been raising much needed awareness of heart disease in women since 2004. Empower mom to take charge of her heart health with a gift from the Go Red shop!

The Go Red Rhinestud Apron ($29) and Eco Utensil Set ($25) would be perfect for the master chef in your life. While she cooks up a storm, she’ll be reminded to put her cardiovascular health first! The “Go Red For Women” campaign will continue to educate mom and give her the tools she needs to lead a heart healthy life. To save an extra 10% off your purchase, like the “Go Red For Women” Facebook page!

Feel Good Footwear

Every woman likes a great pair of shoes, but mom will really love that her gift of TOMS Shoes will also help a child in need. Continuing on with their world renowned efforts and brand mission of One for One, TOMS Shoes is now available in chic wedges and ballet flats.

These Black Canvas Wedges ($69) are the perfect combination of style and versatility. Mom will surely appreciate the comfort of the medium heel and soft, suede insole.

If she’d prefer a flat, these two tone Burlap Ballet Flats ($79) will be her new go to shoe. The classic colors and blend of natural fabrics can be worn with everything from jeans to a dress!

For a limited time, TOMS is also offering an online exclusive version of their classic style with a loving message for Mother’s Day! The TOMS Hearts MOMS shoe ($54) is available in navy and white, and for every purchase, TOMS will give the same pair to a mom in need across the globe.

Spa Scents

If mom can’t get to the spa, the soothing scent of this SoHo Living Bamboo Candle ($9) will instantly take her there from the comfort of her home! There’s nothing like a warm, flickering candle to help you relax and feel rejuvenated. 

The clean and tranquil fragrance of this affordable candle rivals those that cost five times the price. And since they’re made of a long-lasting paraffin wax, mom won’t have to worry about being left in the dark as these beauties burn for up to 60 hours (really!).

Just in time for Earth Day 2012, affordable retailer H&M has launched their new eco-friendly Conscious Collection. The exclusive line expands on the brand’s mission to bring sustainable fashion to the forefront, while also proving that green fashion can be quite chic! The collection is available in 100 stores worldwide, with select items also available on the retailer’s website. And with prices ranging from $5.95 to $299, you can be fashionable and socially responsible without spending a fortune!

Budget fashionistas are loving the Conscious Collection, with the line’s casual yet sophisticated pieces, feminine color palette and versatile styling. With an infusion of pretty pastels and floral prints, the collection is perfect for the warmer months of spring and summer.

Highlights of the line include this Knee Length Dress ($14.95) and Wide Cut Shorts ($29.95), both in a whimsical powder pink floral pattern.

This Fitted Blazer ($49.95) with flirty ruffle details would be the perfect finishing touch for either look!

Hollywood’s most stylish stars are also big fans of the Exclusive Glamour Collection, an extension of the Conscious line that consists of red carpet ready looks made of sustainable materials like organic cotton, hemp, and recycled polyester.

A-list celebs like Academy Award winners Viola Davis and Michelle Williams, as well as Sex and the City star, Kristin Davis, have been photographed in the eco-friendly collection on the red carpet.

The Conscious Collection is also available for men and kids. For more information on H&M’s sustainability efforts, click here.

Have you ever opted for flats instead of heels so that you didn’t stand out in a crowd?  Surprisingly, 72% of tall women in the US have downplayed their height by wearing flat shoes or slouching when in social situations (Long Tall Sally).

Today marks the start of Stand Tall Week, a 7 day celebration that encourages women to embrace their height.  Presented by Long Tall Sally, this week long initiative will include a limited time pop-up shop in New York City, an exclusive premiere of the documentary film “Tall Girls,” as well as great deals on the latest spring and summer collections on LongTallSally.com. 

The official Stand Tall Week website has fun facts and figures about living the tall life, as well as an opportunity for women to share their personal stories and pictures to inspire their fellow fashionistas. 

No matter if you’re 5’2” or 6’2”, there’s definitely something to learn from Stand Tall Week!  Ladies, it’s time to stand tall and proud!

While we all love to shop for the latest trends and fashion finds, it’s empowering to know that certain purchases can make a difference in the world. We should all strive to be socially responsible shoppers, and with so many products available, it’s now easier than ever. Here are a few of my favorite fashion finds that really give back!

Avon Empowerment Necklace

Avon Ambassador and Oscar winning actress, Reese Witherspoon, recently unveiled the “Empowerment Circle of Support Necklace” ($5, Avon.com) to raise funds for the Avon Speak Out Against Domestic Violence program. The delicate silver-tone necklace features the infinity symbol, representing the unlimited potential a woman can achieve without violence in her life. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the necklace will be donated to the Avon Foundation, for programs dedicated to ending domestic violence against women. This beautiful piece of jewelry is an affordable way to support this worthy cause affecting women all over the globe.

iHeartKids Tee

Soles4Souls and iHeartKids have teamed up to help those in need of one basic necessity, shoes. The two organizations recently launched the T-Shirt Project, a design competition giving kids of all ages the opportunity to submit their unique artwork for consideration. A colorful collection of some of the best drawings is now available for purchase online! A portion of the profits from the limited edition iHeartKids Tee ($20 -$22, iHeartKids.com) will benefit Soles4Souls. By purchasing one shirt (available in kids and adult sizes), five pairs of shoes will be given to deserving people all around the world.

Three Dots Scarf

Three Dots (a fashion brand known for their luxurious contemporary knitwear) and Saving America’s Mustangs have come together to bring much needed awareness to the mistreatment of wild horses in the USA. By purchasing their American-made, Watercolor Silk Scarf ($60, ShopThreeDots.com), half of the purchase price will be donated to Saving America’s Mustangs. Funds raised from the sale of this versatile scarf (available in two colors) will go towards the preservation and protection of this iconic American animal.

Rachael Ray’s Milk & Honey Shoes

Foodie and TV Personality Rachael Ray teamed up with Milk & Honey Shoes to raise money for a cause close to her heart, the Yum-o Organization! Rachael combined her two loves (shoes and food) to create this fabulous chocolate brown platform pump with snakeskin print. For each purchase of “The Rachael Heel” ($195, MilkandHoneyShoes.com), 100% of the profits will be donated to this wonderful organization that empowers kids and families to develop healthy relationships with food and cooking.

With the end of the 5,126 year-long Mayan calendar in December, tourists are flocking to the Riviera Maya region of Mexico! 2012 is definitely the time to travel to the Yucatán Peninsula, especially if you’re looking for an out of this world experience in one of the most beautiful locations on the planet.

The Riviera Maya is just south of Cancun and offers affordable but luxurious amenities, tranquil beaches, and rich cultural significance, making it a desired destination for travelers of all ages.

If you plan well enough in advance, there’s still time to find airfare deals online. On Travelocity.com, flying from Tuesday to Tuesday in mid-May (from Los Angeles) will cost either $459 (Aeromexico) or $510 (American Airlines) for a roundtrip ticket. That’s hundreds of dollars cheaper than buying an airplane ticket to other popular destinations such as Hawaii or Europe.

Hotels in the Riviera Maya have also decreased their rates dramatically, with hopes that tourists will return to the region despite the negative press the country has experienced in recent years. One of my favorite hotels is Hacienda Tres Rios, an eco-friendly resort set amongst a 326 acre nature park. For a limited time, this lavish resort is offering their lowest rate ever to families of 4 (with 2 children under 12). For just $135 per adult per night, a family can indulge with the Endless Luxury plan, including the suite, an all inclusive meal plan for all plus unlimited alcoholic beverages for the adults, and infinite access to the many tours and activities available on the property. This is truly an incredible bargain!

Fun and adventure for those that love the outdoors is endless in this area of Mexico. Crystal clear blue waters are perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling, while the many underground caves and cenotes make for a unique day of hiking, swimming and exploring. The Riviera Maya is also known for zip line tours, the perfect option for thrill seeking travelers!

By far, the most enticing tourist attractions in the region are the remains of the Mayan culture. There is nothing like soaking in the rich history and magnitude of the Mayan ruins, up close and in person. The seaside Mayan city of Tulum is said to be one of the most well preserved ancient relics, with the cooling waters of the Caribbean Sea just steps away to keep you refreshed after a long day of walking. The ruins of Chichen Itza and Ek-Balam are also just a few hours away, and make for an ideal day trip.

Take my word for it that the Riviera Maya is a must visit destination, no matter if you go in 2012 or in the years to come. Whether you’re traveling solo or with you family, this tropical paradise has a little something for everyone. And the best part is, you won’t break the bank!

Fashion must haves come and go, but one thing you can count on is my round up of affordable options so you can be stylish without breaking the bank!  Color is back this spring, in fun and whimsical ways sure to brighten your mood and lift your spirits! Whether you try one or all of the following trends, rest assured that your purchase will take you all the way through summer with these versatile fashion finds.

Silky Wide Legs are the new “it” pants for spring! This flowy silhouette is the perfect combination of style and comfort. With the ease of a maxi skirt but the versatility of a pant, these must haves will be your go to slacks for the season. Opt for lightweight materials in wide leg, flared or trouser styles in bright solid colors or festive prints.

Pair these blue tribal pants ($89, Nordstrom) with a fitted tank and wedges for a cool, laidback vibe.

Or tuck a structured blouse in to these classic polka dot palazzos ($88, Nordstrom) for a chic office look. Remember, it’s all about proportion so wear fitted tops to balance the roominess of the pants. Also, choose wedges or heels to lengthen your look!

Bold Floral Prints will be everywhere this spring, from flirty dresses and tops to fashion forward pants. While small, dainty flowers are still in, it’s all about big florals to make a bold, eye catching statement this season!

This Asian inspired, pink Kimono Blouse ($59.50, Victoria’s Secret) is sweet and sexy, and would look great with skinny jeans and heels. The billowy blouse is easy to wear and an ideal lightweight cover-up for the warmer months ahead.

This multi-colored, floral sundress ($59.50, Victoria’s Secret) would be perfect for a tropical getaway, or even a springtime brunch with friends. The smocked, strapless style is super comfortable while the fit and flare shape complements all figures.

Spice up your springtime wardrobe with Bright Accessories! Festive jewelry in colorful shades are a great way to mix it up and show off your personality through fashion.

Add a dash of sass to your everyday look with these tri-colored Sea Shell Earrings ($5.80, Forever 21). These vibrant earrings will add a splash of color to everything from jeans and a tee to a pretty maxi dress.

You can’t go wrong with bangle bracelets, and this multi-colored set is no exception! Available in 4 color ways, these affordable bangles ($6.80, Forever 21) are just the right accessory to complete any look!

There’s no better way to incorporate the Color-Block trend into your spring wardrobe than in a new handbag! Classic shapes are getting a modern update with refined color combinations and a dose of the hottest hues of the season.

This structured ladylike purse ($32, Lulu’s) is neutral in shades of brown and tan, while the hint of orange adds just the right amount of color for spring. Made of vegan leather, this color-block bag looks and feels way more than it actually costs!

For a versatile handbag that will go with everything, try this black and tan satchel ($42, Lulu’s) with gold hardware. This two-tone bag will take you from day to night, and is large enough to fit all your essential items!

The hottest celebrities hit the Oscars red carpet in impeccable style Sunday night, drawing a memorable close to tinsel town’s award season! On Hollywood’s biggest night, the best dressed stars channeled the simplicity and glamour of the 1920’s film era, paying homage to the silent but golden winner of the evening, “The Artist.”

17-time Academy Award nominee Meryl Streep was an image of Oscar gold in her custom, eco-friendly Lanvin long sleeve gown. The deep neckline and asymmetrical draping added to the drama of the Best Actress winner’s look, while her Salvatore Ferragamo peep toe pumps and Lanvin clutch were the ideal touches to complete her ensemble.

Best Supporting Actress winner Octavia Spencer was the belle of the ball in a creamy metallic Tadashi Shoji gown with dazzling embellishments. “The Help” actress wore Tadashi to many red carpet events this award season, but this short sleeve gown took top honors. I love how the perfectly placed crystals cinched in her waist to show off her beautiful, curvaceous figure!

Best Actress nominee Michelle Williams ended her awards season run on a high note in a gorgeous silk and organza Louis Vuitton strapless gown. Her fiery orange dress featured a feminine peplum waist, one of the hottest fashion trends for spring. The “My Week with Marilyn” star finished off her exquisite look with a 30-carat brilliant cut necklace and vintage brooch by Fred Leighton.

Presenter Milla Jovovich looked elegant in a silvery white, sequined Elie Saab Couture one shoulder gown. The “Resident Evil” star topped off her look with Jacob & Co. jewels and an Edie Parker clutch. Although it was her first walk down the Oscars red carpet, Milla looked like a pro as her delicate gown sparkled and showcased her slim frame.

Presenter Jennifer Lopez definitely turned heads on stage in her sexy and shimmery Zuhair Murad long sleeve gown. The plunging neckline and seductive cutouts complimented JLo’s flawless figure, reminding us why only she can pull off such a daring dress. Wardrobe malfunction aside, nobody can doubt that Jennifer looked stunning in this body hugging gown!

The warmer months of spring are just around the corner! To get us inspired for the pleasant weather ahead, it’s time to reveal some of the most desired shoes for spring 2012. The biggest footwear trends will make all fashionistas smile, with bold colors, boho materials and versatile styling. There’s a must have shoe for every woman, from confident trendsetters to refined sophisticates. Ladies, it’s time to put your best foot forward by stepping out in the following spring shoe trends!

Color-Block

If you’re a trendsetter, color-block shoes will be your favorite trend for spring! This standout look combines colors in fun, geometric designs. Whether you prefer sandals or stilettos, there is a color-block shoe for you!

Make a statement in these sexy cobalt and fuchsia platform pumps (Payless, $29.99), which would look great with an LBD.

For a flirty feel, pair these coral and lime wedges (Payless, $54.99) with a girly, floral dress.

Add a pop of color to your favorite jeans and tee by sporting these teal textured loafers (Payless, $44.99) with black and coral trim.

Wood Soles

If you’re a bohemian girl at heart, you’ll love the 70’s inspired wooden platforms, wedges, and sandals for spring! These funky shoes are the perfect combination of fashion and function. Not only will they go with everything, but the neutral colors will lengthen your legs making you feel tall and beautiful!

For a relaxed look, pair these woven brown sandals (Endless, $99) with shorts and a tank.

For a disco-chic feel, try these multi-colored snakeskin peep toe pumps (DSW, $89.95) with a pair of silk wide leg pants (another huge fashion trend for spring!).

And for the ideal go to shoe for every occasion, wear these taupe leather wedges (Endless, $87.99) with everything from denim to a printed maxi!

Ankle Straps

If you’re a classic fashionista, you’ll absolutely swoon for ankle strap heels! A ladylike rendition of the stiletto, these shoes are elegant and sophisticated. For the most feminine look, opt for a thin ankle strap.

These nude and black patent beauties (DSW, $59.95) would be a stunning choice for the office or a springtime wedding.

For a bolder look, try these geometric textured platform sandals with a wider ankle strap (DSW, $69.95). The color combo is classic while the tribal texture gives the shoe a distinctive edge.

For a trendy but sporty look, these heels have a thick elastic ankle strap (Nine West, $89), making them a stylish and comfortable choice for busy gals on the go!

If you’re a frugal fashionista, you’ll be happy to know that Jason Wu’s capsule collection for Target launched on February 5^th! Most known for designing the beautiful white gown that Michelle Obama wore to the Presidential Inauguration Ball in 2009, Wu’s line for Target brings high fashion to the masses, with clothing and accessories ranging from $19.99 to $59.99. But since the limited edition collection hit stores on Sunday, shoppers have been finding that many of the most coveted styles and in demand sizes have sold out fast! If you want to score a piece of fashion history, head to your local Target or Target.com ASAP! Jason Wu for Target will only be available through March 6^th, if it even lasts that long!

The Target website features all the best looks from the Jason Wu collection, and even some exclusive online styles that have hit the site in the last few days. The collection is ultra feminine with clean lines and exquisite details, reminiscent of an American girl in Paris! The pieces are easy to wear and figure flattering.

One of the most popular looks of the line is this gold textured blouse and black pleated skirt ($29.99), as featured in the Jason Wu for Target television commercial. This look is sexy and sophisticated, perfect for an evening out on the town!

Wu’s use of nautical colors is both playful and romantic, as seen with the following two looks.  This navy floral skirt ($29.99), red silk blouse ($26.99), and cardigan would be pretty for the office or even a spring wedding.

This Americana striped tee ($19.99) and cuffed shorts are a fun, relaxed look for a weekend lunch with friends.

One of Target.com’s exclusives is this flirty spotted sleeveless dress with black belt ($39.99). Pair this versatile shift with wedges for day or with black pumps and a blazer for night!

Many fashion insiders are predicting that Jason Wu’s signature black cat, Milu, will become an industry icon! The mischievous cat is featured on this tote, tee, and silk scarf, which are only available in stores. Tres chic!

Sunday night’s SAG Awards did not disappoint, as the biggest stars of film and television descended on the red carpet at The Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. Hollywood’s leading ladies once again proved that the red carpet arrivals are half the fun of watching the awards telecast! With all the beautifully dressed stars, it wasn’t too difficult to select which celebs took top fashion honors. From lovely ladies in lace to foxy sirens in shades of fuchsia, here are my picks for Best Dressed at the 2012 SAG Awards!

“The Help” actress, Emma Stone, looked fun and flirty in her tea length Alexander McQueen strapless dress with lace accents at her neckline. Channeling a retro vibe, Emma completed her darling look with black ankle strap heels with matching lace rosettes.

Also rocking the lace trend was George Clooney’s sexy sidekick, Stacy Keibler. Stacy looked stunning in a body hugging black lace Marchesa gown with cap sleeves and a scalloped neckline. Her mermaid skirt complemented her tall frame, while George was the ideal accessory to top off her red carpet look!

One of the best dressed stars of the night was “My Week with Marilyn” actress, Michelle Williams. Michelle looked ravishing in a classic red Valentino gown with an asymmetrical hemline and lace insets. The normally demure Williams turned heads in this sexy but feminine frock, and accessorized her ensemble with matching heels by Roger Vivier.

Fuchsia was the color of the evening and nobody wore it better than “Modern Family” actress, Julie Bowen. Julie wore an elegant gown by Temperley London, with fluid draping and a daringly sexy back. Dainty embellishments adorned her shoulders, while matching peep toe pumps rounded out her gorgeous look.

Voluptuous “Modern Family” actress, Sofia Vergara, was also a vision of beauty in bold fuchsia! Her strapless Marchesa gown with asymmetrical ruching and draping accentuated her famous curves, showing that pink is not only pretty, but positively perfect!