by Monica on September 2, 2010
I love leather for summer and fall this year. A timeless/season-less staple like leather never goes out of style. However due to its edgy reputation its rarely found in the everyday woman’s closet. But I’m serious when I say you too can do leather!
I came across this super chic street style on Elle.com. This outfit is so fierce, I love it! I adore the feminine pleat of the tough (faux) leather skirt. This is the best version of a leather mini I have seen and its not even a glamorous celeb rocking it!
This girl proves that leather can work for day when paired with the right pieces…blouse-y tops and casual shoes!
Her skirt is from Forever21 but unfortunately, it’s no longer available! However, I did find this one for less than $20 as a great alternative!
I love the ruching at the waist and the zipper detail…and while it looks super short on the model, it was much longer in person!
There’s a lot of leather out there for Fall and while I think leather shorts and pants look ab-FAB on models and super tall skinnie-minnies, they’re not for everyone.
It’s a hard look to pull off so if you want to be bold this season with your leather picks, opt for a skirt… or if the skirt still isn’t your thing try a leather jacket like this or a soft leather belt to add a little edge to your closest!
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by cheapchica11 on September 1, 2010
Words cannot describe how freaking cute this collection is! I just found it and like I do with all good things, I must now share it with you!
Teeny Bunny House is the brainchild of three southern girls (I knew there was a reason I loved them!) from the Savannah College of Art and Design who now make each and every one of our pieces by hand in their tiny Garment District studio in NYC. All of their materials are locally sourced and the best part, everything retails for under $100!!
Their Saucer earrings and Initial Frame necklace are truly unique pieces you would only find at some amazing market and then run home to tell all of your friends about. They have such a kitschy, quirky, vintage quality about their designs and that’s what I love most about the collection!
I loved it so much that I wanted one of you to have your very own initial necklace so I asked the girls if they would sponsor a giveaway and they said yes!
To enter to win– all you have to do is follow us both on Twitter: @cheapchicas and @teenyhousebunny (just click the links and then click follow) and then send me a tweet with what letter you want in your necklace if you win!
You could choose your name, your BF’s initial or you could even give the necklace away as a gift to your Mom or BFF! Good Luck!
PS: They also have a super-cute blog worth checking out: http://teenyhousebunny.com/blog/
NOTE: This is only open to US residents. Winner will be notified via TWITTER on 9/8.
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by cheapchica11 on September 1, 2010
The countdown to fall has officially begun and if you’re wondering what to buy, let our suggestions for this month tempt you…or just provide a little guidance:

1. Linda: While we’re still battling the heat, but slowly moving towards the fall season, chiffon tops are the perfect transition piece. This light, sheer fabric is feminine and extremely comfortable in hot weather, and when it finally starts to cool down you can layer a cardigan over top for a chic contrast. I really love the neck detail in this one from Forever 21, but also check out Nordstroms selection for great prices!
2. Jean: One of fall’s must-haves is definitely something military-inspired, and what better way to incorporate this trend into your wardrobe than with a pair of skinny cargo pants in army green? Slide them underneath a brown bootie with a white slub tee for transitional weather or pair ‘em up with a chunky cable-knit as it turns cold. Did I mention these are only $29.00!
3. Lilliana: So even though it’s technically September, the temperatures don’t agree with boot weather so to hold you over before you break out the big guns (Over The Knee boots!) these perforated wedge booties are just the thing! You can wear them with cut-offs now or leather leggings and a big over-sized chunky knit sweater in a few months!
4. Molly: The Leather Jacket is the perfect fall accessory! If real leather isn’t something you have the funds for or you don’t agree with real leather, have no fear! There are an tons of inexpensive faux leather jackets to choose from like this one!
5. Leah: The Maxi Skirt it can be worn with a tee during the lingering warmer days and when it starts to cool down you can add a denim jacket for a casual look. It’s the perfect transition piece! Second, the Maxi look is HUGE this year! You need a least one maxi piece in your closet this Fall!
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by Monica on August 31, 2010
Mossimo/Xhilaration Motorcycle Jackets at Target: $30-$34.99
Click it/Skip it: Click it! Click them all!
I love a great motorcycle jacket anytime of the year, but especially at this time of year! They can transition from day to night and they work no matter what your style!
I just checked out Target’s large selection of moto jackets and I was not disappointed…and you won’t be either. This is the one that lured me in–simply because this color is so hard to find at a budget friendly pricepoint and when I saw it, it just looked so expensive!
Fit: All of the jackets fit very true to size. Motorcycle jackets do tend to come cropped and that might be the only thing I didn’t love about this jacket. I’m taller, so it hit a little shorter than I would have liked –right above my waist–but that shrunken look is very in so I’m going to go with it!
Shopper’s Notes: pLeather can look really cheap, but the faux leather used for these jackets loos and feels really expensive!
The one thing I do want to advise is that you skip the “crinkled” options. These are meant to look worn in and vintage-y but IMO they just look rather cheap (in the bad way!). Stick with the cleaner options like the one pictured above for a more luxurious look!
BTW: If I had a budget for two, this one would be my 2nd choice! Very Rick Owens, minus the $3000 price tag!
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by Monica on August 30, 2010
Want to show a little skin now and into the fall? Try a piece with shoulder cut outs!
An essential piece to pick up when transitioning your wardrobe in the coming seasons is a top or dress that shows a little skin in the shoulders.
The shoulders tend to get over looked but they are SEXY, plus its a conservative way to show some skin that has a big impact.
Emma Roberts looks gorgeous in this bohemian chic dress. She grabs the essence of this trend, which is effortless and subtly sexy.
While, Emma’s gorgeously embellished dress is probably way out of all our price ranges it doesn’t mean that you can’t try this trend on too!
The easiest way to incorporate this into your everyday is with tops. Look for tops like this one from Aqua (a bit pricey) or one of ASOS many versions.
If you have been eying the cut out trend but found it a little too risque for you try this now!
Then, take this look into fall nights by pairing these tops and tunics with skinny jeans/leggings and some sexy heels.
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by cheapchica11 on August 30, 2010
Let me just start this post by saying that I found most of the fashions last night totally underwhelming…it’s like all the celebs are terrified of Joan’s sharp tongue and her new show on E!…anyway, let’s get to “BEST” first and I use that word lightly…

I didn’t even know who Jennifer Carpenter was before tonight, but I’m now a huge fan! That dress is TDF and while the one shoulder trend has been done a million times on the red carpet, I’ve never seen it done in full on sequins and with a long-sleeve! So very sexy yet totally understated! As a huge fan of GLEE, no one on that show can do any wrong in my book but Lea Michele you need to EAT! She’s beautiful in her Oscar de la Renta gown but she looks like she’s lost way too much weight! I haven’t liked Claire Danes since My So Called Life, but I love this dress…clearly I’m totally having a sequins moment!
Now for the bad… [click to continue...]
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by Monica on August 29, 2010
Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure Nail Polish: $7.00
Click It/Skip it: Click it!
I saw this product in InStyle and I had to try this one! The beauty department at InStyle always has great tips on new beauty products, and I am so glad I tried this one!
With 42 colors to choose from this nail polish is a must have for every season. The product claims to be a 5 in 1…growth treatment, nail strengthener, base coat, color, top coat and on top of all that its quick drying!
Fit: This polish really does live up to its claims. The 5 in 1 totally makes a difference and your nails will have that salon shine with just a few coats. The only slight disappointment…while it is quicker drying than most nail polishes (a few minutes for total dryness) its not as instant as I expected..oh well!
Still, this is a must have beauty buy! I wore it for a week before it began to chip. Plus, the brush is A-MAZING…its over-sized for more coverage and a quicker coat. However, make sure you have a steady hand…not much room for error.
Shopper’s Notes: Aren’t we are always looking to save time in our beauty routines? This polish will last longer than your typical drug store polish but will look just as great as salon brands like OPI and Essie. And $7 is much cheaper than a manicure…not to metnion buying a separate top coat, top coat, quick dry and a nail strengthener!
You can find a list of online retailers here or just check out the makeup aisle at your local drug store, grocery store, or beauty emporium. I listed the price as $7.00 but if you’re lucky you may be able to find a deal and pick up multiples.
If you’ve tried this out already, what are your favorite colors?….I picked up “All Fired Up” for now and “Pat on the Black” which is strikingly similar to OPI’s notorious “Lincoln Park After Dark” for fall.
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by Jean on August 28, 2010
Whether they may be cropped, mid-length, or oversized, cable-knit sweaters were virtually everywhere on the Fall 2010 runways (especially in neutral, classic colors)…
My ultimate fantasy pick? This unbelievably gorgeous Burberry belted cardigan. Price tag? $605.00.
Sooo, since that is clearly not happening, I took to the Internet and not only found some budget-friendly belted sweaters (all under $100.00! See below. Much better, right?) similar to this one, but a few others that had me going through about 100 fall outfits in my head…
What’s great is that you can even sport a cropped cable-knit (like this one from ASOS!) with a pair of chic shorts for an adorable transitional look… most of these styles are pretty timeless and well worth your money…
You have to love a piece that will take you from cool summer nights right into crisp fall days, am I right?
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by Molly on August 27, 2010
One of my favorite things about clothing is that each piece of clothing we wear creates a feeling. That feeling comes mainly from our previous experiences, so whether it feels like a good or bad piece of clothing is a reaction from the inside.
Romance is the feeling of excitement and mystery associated with love. And as far as clothing is concerned, there is nothing as romantic as a feminine blouse. Just like the peasant blouse Olivia Palmero is wearing.
The whole outfit just shouts Fall. Peasant blouses are romantic instead of sexy. They have that barley sheer allure to them that shares just enough without giving away anything. There is a sophistication that is coming back to clothing this Fall. And one of the number one items on the forefront of the movement is the Romantic Blouse.
Match a blouse with a pair of trousers or a pencil skirt for work. For a more casual approach match a blouse with a pair of cut off jean shorts. There are many variations of blouses depending on the collars and the sleeves. Pick which style best suites you!
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by Molly on August 26, 2010
If you buy only one thing this year make it a military/utility jacket or vest. It is something that can be worn every which way and in almost every season. The twill fabric makes an ideal transition piece because it covers up while breathing, which is perfect for spring and late summer. You will have a blast dressing this jacket up and down. The khaki/pine green color is a must this fall.
You never want to go overboard with the military clothing. Don’t wear a camouflage studded shirt, army green cargo pants topped with a utility jacket. This is a sure way to be categorized as a fashion causality. Mix and match it with different textures, fabrics, and colors.
For the work day match a wool patterned pencil skirt, simple blouse or knit top and a cardigan, topped with a skinny colorful belt around he utility jacket. If you’re looking for a more casual weekend look I would wear a military inspired jacket with my favorite air of boyfriend jeans rolled at the ankles, lose fitted tee and a pair of nude/neutral colored heels.
While we are in the last weeks of summer wear this jacket with your favorite sun dress and a pair of moto boots or sandals depending on the weather.
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by Monica on August 25, 2010
Deena & Ozzy Pony Purse: $48.00
Click it/Skip It: Skip it
Two of my favorite fall trends right now are animal prints and texture. This bag encompasses both and I was really excited when I ordered it!
While the faux leather is super soft, it also feels feels limp and like it might rip or break…this bag is not built to carry a heavy load. Also, if you’re an animal lover, be forewarned that the the textured front is real calf hair.
Fit: On the plus side, the length! It can go cross body or just lay on your shoulder. It is big enough to hold a day’s worth of essentials (but probably not strong enough). It has two compartments separated by a zipper pocket on the inside and is about as big as it looks on the model. Overall this bag has great bones, but its lacking in the quality department.
Shopper’s Notes: I don’t want to give up on leopard…its classic and never goes out of style! When I return this bag I will definitively be trying out a clutch like THIS from Lori’s Shoes! I normally add a pop to my outfits with some bold color but for Fall, leopard is the way to go!
Bags and clutches are one of the best ways to show off an animal print but I also love wearing a printed scarf, belt, or even a skirt. Its supposed to be fun so play around. Also….because this Urban bag was kind of a let down I’ve included some of my top leopard picks for you to check out!
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by Jean on August 24, 2010
Dear CheapChica…
Hello! After picking up the September issue of Elle in which you are featured, I fell in love with Chloe’s fall line, especially this camel colored outfit featured in their add. Sadly, however, I cannot afford an actual Chloe outfit so I need your help! Any idea of how I can recreate this on my paltry salary?
Thanks!
Ahhh, now this is something I to which I can lend my expertise… why? Because I’m seriously obsessed with Hannah MacGibbon, head designer for Chloé. No really, I’m style-stalking her in my head non-stop, and if there’s any line that I too wish to imitate on a budget this fall, it’s Chloé.
The best advice I can give is stick to four or five basics inspired by Chloé Fall/Winter RTW that you can mix and match. What is great about this particular collection is that its pieces are, when it boils down to it, pretty “basic” (which means easy to imitate!) and the separates really all do complement each other well.
The key pieces to obtaining this look? In my opinion: something camel-colored (preferably a coat, trench, or pants), a denim shirt, a chiffon (esque), feminine, cream-colored blouse (of course polyester will do), a pair of pointed flats, and a brown vintage-inspired belt. All sounds pretty doable, right? I’d say so! I’ve found all sorts of possibilities below to get you started, all under $100.00.
What’s also great about this collection is that it’s transition-friendly. Another look I spotted at the Chloé Fall trunk show in Paris (which also featured some awesome plaid separates!) was a pair of camel pants teamed up with a simple black tank top (easy enough!) and that brown belt… which will, honestly, go with just about any outfit you put together anyway…
Just remember: chic, lux, and effortless. Yup, that about sums up Chloé in a nutshell… good luck!
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by cheapchica11 on August 23, 2010
You know those days when you just don’t feel like trying…well lately I’ve been having a lot of those. And while it would be great to walk out of the house in my emotional sweatpants and holey T-shirt, I can’t!
So I’ve been stocking my closet with super simple pieces that look like I care, when I really don’t! This amazing T-shirt from Threadsence (one of my FAVES!) is a perfect example of the kind of shirt you need to own multiples of. And when it’s marked down to $22 (on sale all WEEK with code TSCHICA!) you can actually afford to buy it in bulk!! If only it came in more colors…but thankfully this shade of peach is such a great neutral!!
For now, pair this w/a pair of cut-offs or tucked into a mini skirt and later…try it with your skinnies or over those ultra-hot cargos that everyone’s wearing!
And when you find some other great buys on the site (and trust us, you will!) you can get FREE shipping on all orders over $50!
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by Molly on August 22, 2010
I am constantly looking for work-appropriate pants to wear with my earth-tone tops. I have such a hard time finding a pant that is not your typical brown or gray tweed flare wool pant from Express. Not that they don’t do the trick, but sometimes I need something different and a little more exciting.
I think these pants from ModCloth fit the bill! They aren’t crazy, but they are different from your average work pant. And, because they are a little more funky, they would make a great day-to-night piece.
Linen pants are also my favorite thing ever! Problem is, it’s hard to find a pair that aren’t for lounging. These are more of a gauze fabric, but are still in the same category as linen. Bottom line, these pants will keep you feeling cool and comfortable.
These pants are a must for me and if they are for you too, go to Modcloth and shell out the $44.99 to have this staple piece in you wardrobe!
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by Monica on August 21, 2010
Madewell Striped Shimmer Tee: $29.99 (on sale)
Note: Check out in- store sales for this shirt and more…I picked this up in-store for $9.99! And I saved an extra 15% with my student discount - don’t forget to ask stores if they offer one!
Click it/Skip it: Click it!
Fit: This shirt fits similar to how it looks on the model. It’s cute a bit narrow …and since I was going for a baggier/looser fit I went up a size and went up a size and opted for a medium. I love this dressed up take summer’s oh-so- popular stripes…just add sequins!
The shirt is seriously soft and I have been living in this week… I love it! But beware, this is one high maintenance tee...handwash only!
Shopper’s Notes: I went with the “cave” color but this shirt also comes in “deep water” blue which is just as cute. However, before you go into the Madewell store be sure to prepare yourself…its a lot of “want but can’t have” items, but just had straight to the sale rack and look for good deals!
The sequins are obviously fun for night and tucking this shirt into a cotton mini is a casual spin on sexy. But, don’t be afraid of a little sparkle for daytime. I have been wearing this tee with denim shorts on hot days but this tee will definitely follow me into fall with all types of jeans.
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