Photo from LUSH

The holidays are coming! Eek! Where did the second half of this year go?!

For those of you who started shopping already, or want to get a head start, LUSH has some sweet deals (free stuff!!!) for the early bird.

LUSH is one of my favorite bath and body brands -- handmade, organic, fresh, and always yummy smelling. The solid shampoo bars and American Cream conditioner are my favorites. They also make really cool pre-wrapped gift boxes (like the one featured at left) that have a slew of great stuff.

I think I'm going to have to do some shopping. One for me, one for my sister. One for me, one for my mom.

Here is the scoop on the deals happening now....

The Old Navy Item of the Week is back and it's bigger than ever!  This week, Women's Bubble Sleeve Knit Tops are on sale for $8 (reg. $16.50)! Valid dates are 10/2-10/8.

I've always loved the bold and funky colors of the cosmetic line Hard Candy. But they disappeared. Well, they're back now and sold at even better prices at Walmart.

That's good news, especially if you like glittery nail polish.

Lauren Conrad's clothes are finally coming to Kohl's! I wrote about them back in April and the launch of her inexpensive line has finally happened.

LC Lauren Conrad has some really cute looks and the former Hills star is sharing some Fall fashion tips in this video clip.

Martin + Osa, makers of some pretty dreamy denim, is having a Labor Day special that means FREE SHIPPING, along with a FREE "Love Shop" Scarf (valued at $69.50).

Kohl's ELLE Contemporary Collection has some super-cute fashion picks for fall. Check out the sale prices right now too.

Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/WireImage

courtesy of InStyle

Blake Lively is super cute, super fashionable, and I even though I don't watch Gossip Girl, I love to see what she's wearing.

At this event, she's in a man-tailored shirt and white mini, and she accessorized with a super long necklace and chunky bold bracelet.

I have a shirt I bought at a Salvation Army back when I was in college that is just like this one. My husband pointed out that I never wear it when we were unpacking after our move, and it's true, I haven't worn it in ages. But look -- it's still in style. I'm so glad I didn't get rid of it.

Photo from Korres

If there is one thing, beauty wise, I am willing to spend some money on, it's face wash. For me personally, and my problem skin, the products that cost a little more tend to work better. And I've tested out a lot of products.

I prefer products that are natural and my latest test is of Korres' Materia Herba Toning Cleansing Foam. At $27 for a 5.07 ounce bottle, I have to say, it's a really great price for what you're getting -- a natural and organic cleanser that gently cleans and helps heal skin.

Photo from Old Navy

I can't seem to have enough inexpensive cotton dresses this summer. I'm so over shorts, skirts are okay, but oh yes to the dress! Easy and cool, dress it up or wear flip flops. These work with my life!

Love this new Tie-Front Flutter Sleeve style and color at Old Navy — just $24.50!

Photo by Henry Lamb/BEImages

courtesy of InStyle

My friend Melody wears shorts a lot, but she dresses them up with fancy tops and heels and always looks amazing. She also has legs for days and it's hard not to hate her sometimes.

But then I see Lauren Conrad dressing up shorts and she's not as tall as Melody.

Hmm...we can all do it. And InStyle magazine shows us how to get the look for less.

--The key is to dress the shorts up with a blouse that has movement. A bold pattern also works well. 

--It's best if the shorts are in a dark fabric that is not denim. And also good if the shorts aren't skin tight.

--Then add heels, or a fancy flat.

--Don't forget to accessorize -- the more you glam it up with something like a chunky and sparkly bracelet and matching ring, the better.

--Dramatic nail polish makes it funky.

Visit InStyle for more details on where to buy and other looks for less.