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?
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!
by Jean on August 19, 2010
I don’t know about you, but I can never get enough of Sienna Miller’s style.
Sienna is definitely one of my top five fashion inspirations right now, and when I saw this shot of her sporting one of the must-haves of the season, I had to gush about it…
What I love about the denim vest as a staple in your closet is that it is so versatile. I have one very similar to Sienna’s (for a fraction of the price, I’m sure… mine is Levi’s), and I wear it over a cute sundress or a racerback tank with khaki shorts for a carefree summer look, but I can also picture myself wearing it in the fall with a maxi skirt and long-sleeved tee…
Best of all, budget-friendly options are virtually everywhere (every option below is under $50.00!) right now, so if you’re looking for a piece that not only gets you many-an-outfit, but which will also carry you into fall, this is it, girls!
by Ann on August 16, 2010
When you think of Olivia Palmero on Mtv’s “The City”- you immediately think villain. But if you can look past her catty remarks, backstabbing moves, and the evil eye she throws her co-worker Erin, you’ve got one fashion forward chica!
Polka dots have always seemed so dated to me, but when I saw Olivia sporting this sheer polka dot dress by Michalsky…… I was smitten!
The sheer look is huge right now and this dress exemplifies why. It’s sexy, cool, and still fabulously sophisticated! Olivia accessorized with a skinny, tan, braided belt (another big summer trend), snakeskin heels, and a hot pink flower clutch.
I found this dress from Forever 21 that had that same sheer/polka dot feel and it’s under $25!! Wear it with a strappy heel (snakeskin, like Olivia’s or even a tan wedge) and use that braided belt you’ve been wearing all summer to get the same look as The City starlet!
And if like us, you’re a big fan of her style, you can check out the August edition of ASOS magazine where the girl that everyone loves to hate is featured! There are plenty of looks to drool after!
by Jean on August 9, 2010
One of my very favorite Winter 2010 collections was by far Michael Kors.
And one of my favorite looks from that collection is definitely this one, which features one of fall’s biggest upcoming trends: the maxi skirt.
I know, I know… it’s 85 degrees outside and I’m talking about winter and fall. But what’s great about the maxi skirt is that you can get a jump-start on this trend now, and snag an affordable option that is lightweight, and very summer-friendly.
In fact, I recently bought this navy maxi from Topshop (for only $36.00!), and I’ve already worn it twice with a white tank and sandals, and believe me, it’s super summer-y… not to mention, comfortable!
On the flip side, I could totally see myself wearing the same skirt in October with brown boots, a lightweight sweater, and scarf…
I’ve picked out a few options for you below (summer and fall-friendly), most around $50.00 or less… you can go white for an August look, or for a darker color if you want to use it to transition into fall… both are on-trend and adorable.
You can’t lose!
by Jean on August 3, 2010
Looking for a head-start on this fall’s trends? Why, meet your new best friend: the metallic dress.
All the trend lists I’ve been reading regarding the next big thing(s) have included metallic frocks at some point, and I’ve also been spotting a fair share of celebs out there who’ve already got the party started…
How amazing does Kate Beckinsale look in this Balmain gown at the Cannes Film Festival… as if her stunning beauty weren’t enough… she’s literally glimmering!
And you can too, for a fraction of the price. I’ve spotted many budget-friendly options (included in the gallery below), and let me tell you: ASOS is the place to hunt for your perfect metallic dress.
There are several options from which to choose, and most of the ones I found are around $50.00! I really looove this “Killah” metallic print jersey mini dress (on sale now for $37.00!)… it would look adorable alone with just heels, or even with leggings and flats for a more casual look!
Whatever spin you put on it… metallic is now being made manifest into so much more than just accessories…
by Leah on July 30, 2010
I’ve been noticing these “knuckle” rings on celebs such as Rihanna and Vanessa Hudgens lately. It’s such a different look- a “statement” ring, if you will, that I became obsessed with finding one for myself.
Unfortunately the one I fell in love with, this beauty by Elizabeth and James, happens to be $225. Sigh… why do those mini-moguls make everything I like so damn expensive?!
So my search continued for a ring that would fit me and my wallet and finally, I stumbled across this amazing replica by Urban Outfitters for only $24!
It’s almost an exact replica and only 1/10 of the price–exactly the amount you should be willing to spend on something that might be “here today, gone tomorrow”…but be forewarned, if you have sensitive skin, this might turn your entire finger green considering how large it is! LOL!
And while I’m a bit worried that I may not be able to move my finger while wearing this “finger armor”, I will try for the sake of fashion! 
by Jean on July 27, 2010
Cute, cute, cuuute!
I love this outfit, and I especially love it on Reese Witherspoon… it’s such a carefree, all-American look, and, as you know, comfort is a huge plus in my book!
On top of all that, I also like that this ensemble incorporates some of the season’s trendiest items: the safari (or some might say military) jacket and the fedora (some might say panama) hat…
So if you’re wondering how to style some of your trendy pieces, reach for one of your feminine sundresses, ladies, it all works so well together…
For the dress, I’d recommend either a bright coral or poppy color, like the one below by Modcloth (only $47.99!) to offset the muted green of the jacket, and I think a crisp white would do the trick as well.
A nude or light brown sandal is a must… even that pair of brown gladiators you wear with everything…
I’ve picked out a few budget-friendly items below, almost everything under $50.00, to get you started… !
by Jean on July 26, 2010
You know how there are those certain high-end labels you look at… and just salivate over?
Chloé by Hannah MacGibbon is at the top of my list. In fact, I can say that she is probably favorite designer of the moment. It seems like every time I catch a glimpse of her handiwork whisking down the runway, I am so inspired… and overcome with the desire to sell everything I own, just so I can purchase one of her ensembles in its entirety.
Well, this Fall/Winter 2010 collection was no exception. I was awestruck by the effect of MacGibbon’s all-over camel look… it’s so soft and lux-looking, I really love it.
And is it any wonder that camel is going to be THE color of the season this fall. Which means it’s about time, as a CheapChica, you start looking for budget-friendly camel-colored pieces now… and when I say “pieces,” I really mean just about… anything!
Take your pick, I’ve spotted camel coats, dresses, skirts, tops (long-sleeved and short-sleeved), bags… shoes… everything!
You can do a head-to-toe Chloé-inspired look or, my favorite, you can sport a camel piece with an all-black ensemble or even with a splash of red (also huge for fall!).
Camel really is timelessly chic. I’ve picked out a few items below, all under $100.00 (a bit cheaper than Chloé, I’d say!) to inspire you and/or get you started… !
by cheapchica11 on July 19, 2010
Like most women in young Hollywood, Jessica Alba’s style can be hit or miss! I think she’s had a really hard time finding her own style and we can all relate to that! Does anyone remember how tragic she looked in her Honey days? LOL!
That’s why I was so happy to see her looking ah-mazing at last week’s couture shows in Paris. She wore a beautiful Chanel dress to watch King Karl showcase all of the clothes the rest of the world can only dream of owning and she was a vision in white!
A white dress in the summer is always a winner, but its how she styled that really inspired me! The addition of the red belt + the black booties give it a very sexy edge without feeling like she was trying to hard.
When it comes to the shoes, some may argue that her ankle boots are too heavy for such a feminine frock, but the key to pulling off a black boot with a white dress is by finding a pair in lace or mesh. This allows the skin to come through and it reduces the visual weight of an otherwise heavy black shoe!
If you’re looking something fashion forward, yet feminine, try this look out for your next girls night out or even for a romantic date night!
L to R: Lipstick, $12; Dress, $145; Earrings, $19; Belt, $25; Shoes, $45
by Leah on July 13, 2010
I’m not the kind of girl that throws on a sweat suit when I travel, but I’m no Lady Gaga in 12 inch platforms either!
I’d say I’m right, smack in the middle – I like to look chic, but still be super comfy. I have several trips planned this summer, so when I saw this picture of Miranda Kerr arriving at LAX the other day, I wanted to wear something similar to the airport!
This, to me, exemplifies a perfectly balanced travel outfit. She wore a pair of skinny jeans, a blouse-y striped tee, and a cute blazer. She looks put-together and not thrown-together.
She accessorized her outfit with a sleek black carry-on – a must for me! I get endlessly bored on planes and love to have my laptop, book, and water bottle nearby! And let’s not forgot about the super-dark shades…no matter how long the flight is, no one will ever know how tired you actually look behind your sunnies!
I rounded up a similar look and the best part is that everything below is under $80!
L to R: Blazer, $78; Sunglasses. $14; Handbag $44 ; Striped Shirt, $32; Woven Flats, $20; Jeans, $19.99
by Jean on June 21, 2010
My God, Gwyneth, you just keep on amazing me… how can anyone resist such an amazing summer-night-out ensemble… I know I sure can’t!
The beauty of this look is that it’s actually really simple and consists of very few items, but all the components make a special statement each their own…
When you pair them together… the result is pure magic. LOVE IT.
Did I mention it’s comfortable? Yeah, that gets huge points in my book! I’ve picked out some budget-friendly options for you below… give it your own spin (psst: a flirty black romper would also work!), but try and go for a style that fits a bit looser (no skin-tight, you don’t want to blur the lines between chic and street-walker), you want something a bit more relaxed… and the full sleeve on one side, in my opinion, is also optional, but you definitely want to keep it simple, black and asymmetrical… the latter is so key!
Then, throw in a bit of contrast with an earthier, single-strand necklace and a pair of bronze gladiators (picks below all under $50.00!)…
… and I think you’ll feel like a million bucks.
by Jean on June 20, 2010
I’m seeing crochet everywhere!
What could be more feminine and summer-y?
Plus, there’s nothing sexier than juuust enough skin peeking out from under a chic, black dress…
Or at least that’s exactly what went through my mind when I stumbled across this gorgeous Helmut Lang piece, which sells for ohhhhhh…. $405.00. Sigh.
However, as I’ve discovered, there are more than a few budget-friendly options lurking out there online, I’ve gotten you started below…
These items will bring about the same chic, eye-catching effect, and you can find them all for under $50.00… !
I especially love this looker on the right, sold at Urban Outfitters from brand Silence and Noise…
… and which, might I add, is now on sale for only $29.99!
If this style tickles your fancy, I’d act quickly… this really is an incredible price to pay for a dress that looks pretty expensive!
Just picture yourself in a black crochet dress… out on the town, paired up with a nude heel, your hair pulled back in a soft chignon…
Dang, girl, you look good!
by cheapchica11 on June 16, 2010
When it comes to old Hollywood glamour mixed with laid back sexy, Scarlett Johansson has the look down.
She’s striking in this blush Stella McCartney dress and messy updo. From head to toe this outfit is perfect for any cocktail party.
This blush/taupe color is definitely the neutral of the summer and it’s one of my pics for the hottest “colors” (or lack thereof) of the season. And no matter what your skintone, you can find a shade of nude that works for you!
The look is matched perfectly with a smoldering red lipstick, which may be daring for some, but if you have a complexion similar to Scarlett Johansson it is a must!
I like the shoe choice, because it really anchors the whole look and gives it a hint of edge, but I suggest you try a peep-toe instead of pump just to make it a little more seasonal friendly.
And the great thing about this look is that it’s mulit-seasonal–you can easily wear this 3 out of 4 seasons and in the Fall, just add textured tights w/cute cardigan! Here’s my cheap, yet chic version of Scarlett’s look…
L to R: Lipstick, $7.99; Dress, $24.80; Earings, $19; Shoes, $41.95
by cheapchica11 on June 11, 2010
Sorry to keep showing shoes from the movie, but while the plot of SATC2 might have left you wanting more, for me the wardrobe and shoes did not disappoint! I thought a lot of the Abu Dhabi stuff was a little over the top but like always, Carrie’s footwear was highly covetable!
I’m not exactly loving this outfit-although I do love that the shirt is Pat Field and it’s less than $50- I do LOVE LOVE LOVE her lilac “Loca” Brian Atwood pumps. They’re a towering 5″ high and they’re completely amazing! These shoes are soooo very “Carrie” and with an $800 price tag, soooo not for “the rest of the world”…but there’s hope…
Go Jane, one of my favorite sites for wallet-friendly shoes has come to the rescue with their stud-embellished platform for less than $30!!
Their version of this shoe did come in the exact same shade of lilac as the Atwoods, but when I went to publish this post, that color was sold out. So the next best option IMO is this taupe pair…they’re super versatile and such a close match to the originals. The shoe also comes in grey, red and black–get them while they’re still available!
BTW, if you’re a size 8, 9 or 11 (and you happen to have a very large bank account) you can click here to buy the Brian Atwood shoes on Net-a-Porter! I’m completely shocked that they aren’t sold out so for a lucky few, you can take home a little and very expensive piece of Carrie home to your closet!
