CheapChica’s Guide to Style — The CheapChica's Guide to Style


From the monthly archives:

November 2008

Winter Woes

by cheapchica11 on November 22, 2008

 

With snow already falling in Philadelphia, I can’t help but worry about the dreadfully long winter ahead…  For anyone that loves fashion as much as I do, getting dressed in the morning can be quite a challenge when the temperature barely gets above freezing and when there’s salty black mush around every corner waiting to ruin your beautiful leather boots.  So, how in the world do you look like your most fashionable self while not freezing to death during your morning commute??

shoes_iaec1045185For starters, if my feet are warm, then everything else is warm so start with a great pair of boots.  Although I wear my Uggs around my house and to run errands when I’m just too lazy to get dressed, they do NOT qualify as footwear.  I’m talking about a great weather-friendly boot, like these Hunter ones with the fleece liner for added warmth.  These not only make you look like a total English countryside badass, but they keep your tootsies dry and more importatnly, warm. 

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Next, it’s all about the accessories.  Just because it’s grey and dreary outside doesn’t mean you have to dress to match the weather.  Pick brightly colored scarves, hats and gloves to add a pop of color to your look and inject some fun into your outfit.  And don’t be afraid to mix colors and patterns!  Also, if you plan on wearing a skirt or dress in the Winter don’t forget a thick pair of sweater tights.  These are much warmer than your average pair of cotton ones and they will help protect your legs from the frigid cold air. 

Finally, layer and layer some more.  Nothing will keep you warmer throughout the day…and you can always take something off if you get too hot.  The key here is to avoid bulky layers so you don’t end up look bulky too!  Stick to lots of thin layers, like this great thermal tee under a wool sweater dress, and top if off with a heavy belted wool coat (or cape) that will help define your shape under all those clothes.

Style Links: Hat $5.50, Scarf $8.80, Dress $36.90Cape $49.00

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Look for Less: Christian Louboutin Foxtrot

by cheapchica11 on November 22, 2008

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On the left we have the originals for $710, and on the right are the Newport News version for $39.00.

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CBS 11 Holiday Fashion Segment

by cheapchica11 on November 21, 2008

1_80116_fsFor a complete list of items and information on where to purchase the looks seen on today’s show, please email me at cheapchicas@gmail.com and I’ll be glad to send you all the details!!

The make up was done by the very beautiful and talented Crystal Smith of Face No Mistakes.

www.facenomistakes.com
crisann_smith@live.com 

In case you missed the show or are just curious to see some great holiday fashions under $100, click below to watch: http://cbs11tv.com/video/?id=35075@ktvt.dayport.com

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Luxe Gifts for Less

by cheapchica11 on November 21, 2008

While I’m all for shopping at Forever 21 and Wal-Mart when I’m buying for myself, I can’t bear the thought of actually giving someone a gift from one of these stores…I’m not even that cheap!  So here’s some helpful suggestions for gifting those special people in your life with a pricey present on a less than luxe budget!

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1. Buy items in rich, luxurious fabrics like cashmere!  Cashmere Hoodie $79.50

2. Buy from the lower priced designer labels like Marc by Marc Jacobs!  MJ Charm Bangle $63.90

3. Pick unique, practical gifts that the recipient wouldn’t buy for themselves!  Juicy Couture Gloves $37.90

4. Don’t underestimate the impact of presentation…when something comes from a really nice store, chances are the packaging will truly make an impression!  Barneys New York Bangle $89.00

5. Buy items that are personal!  If someone is a traveler, buy them something that will help them travel in style!  Leather Passport Holder $35.00

6. Buy for the home!  This way, you don’t have to buy individual gifts and you can buy something more substantial!  Kalorik Espresso Maker $99.00

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Tacky but True: Pro Nails

by cheapchica11 on November 20, 2008

digital_nail_art_printerWhat might be the tackiest “accessory” on the planet now has a catchy theme song to go with it…

You must check out Kid Sister and Kanye cleverly rhyming about something I just don’t understand?!?! Who gave women the idea that expressing themselves artistically on their extra-long Acrylics was a good idea???

I have never seen anything benefit from the application of Nail Art, so save the extra $20 and treat yourself to the Deluxe Spa Mani/Pedi instead!! And while we’re on the topic, unless your Acrylics are dancing in a Kanye video, get rid of them!!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pT9IZ6Xoees]

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Fall into Florals

by cheapchica11 on November 20, 2008

I typically stay away from prints, but when I started seeing these beautiful florals on the runway and on some of my favorite GG stars, I couldn’t hold back anymore.  Now I’m quite aware that it’s winter-the high was only 32 in Philly today- and you typically associate flower prints with Spring, but wearing them now adds an element of surprise to your ensemble.  And in fashion, wearing the unexpected always scores major style points.  

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I suggest adding edgier pieces, like a black leather jacket, a studded belt or some seriously rock-glam heels, to help break up the print and make it less girly.  Or if you want to channel Donna Reed, you could also go all out and pair it with a shrunken cardigan and strand of pearls for an ultra-feminine retro look.

Either way, you’re sure to look beautiful!

Style Links: Rose Dress $24.80, Floral Cami $24.50, Floral Coat $39.80, Strapless Floral Dress $24.80, Flower Pumps $24.99, Flower Cardigan $24.80

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Britney’s Big Comeback

by cheapchica11 on November 19, 2008

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88Ossu6qSiY]

I am totally setting my TIVO!  I can’t wait to see what she has to say about all that’s happened in the last few years…and no matter what, I’m always TEAM BRITNEY!

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Look for Less: Herve Leger

by cheapchica11 on November 19, 2008

 

Bebe, Contrast Cutout Banded Dress $83.30

Bebe, Contrast Cutout Banded Dress $83.30

A lot of you wrote me about how much you looooooved that sequin Herve Leger dress from my post yesterday, but were looking for something a little easier on the wallet than the $2,800 designer original.  So I did a little research and found a great “chic on the cheap” version from Bebe for only $83.80!  While their version doesn’t have sequins, it’s in the same Lilac color palette and more importantly, it incorporates that banded look that is synonymous with Leger’s designs.  This dress isn’t short on sex appeal so make sure you’re ready for all of the attention!

Bebe is currently offering 30% off ALL dresses so check out their site and if this cut-out style is a little too much for you, they do have some more um, conservative banded dresses like this one or this one!

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pLeather Leggings + McQueen =

by cheapchica11 on November 19, 2008

picture-121AMAZING.  I’ve been talking about how much I adore my pLeather leggings for months now…they make me feel very cool, ultra sexy and like I should be the star of some punk rock band!  On a serious note, they really are one of the best ways I have ever spent $44.  From what I can tell,  many of you agree with me and have gone out and bought a pair of your very own.

Well, in case you still haven’t taken the pleather plunge, Alexander McQueen will include a pair of the “wet-look”, shiny legwear in his new collection for Target.  And in this latest campaign image, featuring his muse, Leila Moss, you can see that she’s not only sporting pleather leggings, but she’s also wearing my most coveted shoe for Spring 09–the ruffled beauties created by Christian Louboutin for Phillip Lim!!  

I am SO jealous!

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Holiday Help from Herve Leger

by cheapchica11 on November 18, 2008

36836_in_lI’m not one to issue a “correction” or regularly admit that I’m wrong…but today I must.

A few weeks ago I cleverly denounced sequin dresses as totally over and cursed the girls that still insist on wearing them to every holiday event from now until New Years…well, I take it all back.

Upon laying eyes on this Herve Leger masterpiece- also knows as his Sequin Ombre Bandage Dress- I quickly realized that sequins, in the right vehicle, can be really elegant and not at all reminiscent of pageant queens. I love the cut, color and pattern of this stunning dress and it hits all of the right party notes for the upcoming season. Unfortunately, it’s $2,800 and I just won’t be able to swing it come this Christmas…

but go ahead and wear all of your sequins proudly…this time, I promise not to judge! ;)

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