Dear CheapChica

I am looking for a maxi dress with sleeves. I have seen them in a few places…this ad for Loehmann’s has a PERFECT one but my local Loehmann’s has CLOSED!! Any ideas where to find these maxi’s with sleeves?  They’re so 70s and I need one in my closet ASAP!

Thanks!

Thanks for writing in! We at CheapChicas are obsessed with all of the 70’s inspired styles we’re seeing this spring. While there are so many great ways to achieve this look, wide legged pants, belted waists, and a ton of color, maxi dresses, like the one you pointed out, might be my favorite.

The best thing about this trend right now is that its HOT and that means there are tons of options to choose from! Maxi dresses are everywhere and there is no shortage of this sleeveless 70’s style that you love. Check out this black and white number from Lulu’s for $65!

While, I can’t find you that exact dress from Loehmann’s. There are a lot of affordable options out there in similar and all different styles. This American Apparel dress has a similar print to the dress in the ad…and I love these other 70’s inspired prints in tribal, lace, and earth tones . Browse below and see if you can find something to satisfy your maxi dress craving!

More Vero Moda…

Dear Cheap Chica,

I check your blog everyday when I get to the office – My morning coffee and I are big fans. I’m trying to keep my spending in check, so what are some must-have pieces for the Spring 2011 season? I’m looking for a few items to mix and match so I can enjoy some new outfits without having to break the bank. Thanks so much!

Jackie

I love your positivity and the fact that you’re thinking about spring pieces because I truly feel that this winter may never end!  Summer is my favorite season, but when I begin to see spring colors and pieces in stores, I quickly become consumed with excitement.

I wish I could keep the list to a simple five pieces, but I’m going to have to up  it to six or seven.  The first piece that everyone needs in the springtime is a trench coat (especially if all of this precipitation becomes a trend!)  I’ve written about trenches before because I was absurdly obsessed with Burberry Prorsum’s S/S 2011 Collection, but there are plenty of places out there that offer timeless trenches that will coincide with everyone’s budget (my personal favorite go-to for an affordable trench is Banana Republic).

A great accessory to add to a trench, and any outfit, is a colorful scarf- they can tie an outfit together, and add a pop of color like this one form Madwell or you can go totally neutral with this one one from Ann Taylor.

Now the question is, what to wear underneath that classic trench: how about a pair of cropped skinny pants and a long-sleeved or three-quarter nautical top?  Lands End Canvas has the best, affordable striped tee’s for only $29.50, and they’re some of the best quality I have seen yet.

Stripes, like a durable trench, are as timeless as they come, and you can mix and match them to wear with just about anything in your wardrobe- I love a striped tee paired with a light colored blazer or a lightweight cardigan.

Every girl also needs a sheath dress. Sheaths are fantastic because you can take them from day to night with ease.  The bolder the color the better, in my opinion.  Wear it to the office with a closed-toe pump or ballet flat, and dress it up for nighttime with some bold accessories and an open-toe platform sandal.  Speaking of ballet flats- these have to be my final item for spring.  Personally, I’m a huge fan of J. Crew’s classic ballet flat, but keep in mind, they tend to run a ½ size big.

I really wanted to go the classic route here, as I believe it’s important to spend a little more money on items that have longevity.  After talking about all of these fun spring clothes, I really hope that the little groundhog was right.  Here’s to spring arriving early, as well as in-style this year!

More Topshop…

Hi CheapChica,
I’m in love….with this bag!!! This hobo from Be & D is to die for, and so it the price. Can you find a Chic and Cheap copy, thanks.
Deirdre

First, I just have to say how much I love this bag too! Thank you for introducing it to us and to our readers…you clearly have an eye for hot trends and showstopping bags!

Now that I got that out of the way, it’s time to reveal the TDF (to die for) price of this TDF bag…$998!!! And that’s when we all go…damm it!  But no worries, there are tons of great bags out there that have similar styling for a fraction of the price– so when you actually buy the bag you’ll have some money left over to put inside!

The thing that first draws my eye to this bag is the color. There’s no other way to describe this rich, buttery, smooth, nude other than to say that it’s just plain lovely. It’s such a relief to have a neutral colored bag out there that isn’t some boring brown or plain Jane tan!  This particular shade of nude is one of my absolute favorite colors, but I’ve had difficlties finding it in the past.  Luckily, this Spring we’ll be seeing a lot more of it…especially when it comes to accessories!

The other thing that makes this bag really special is the hardware.  This wrapped leather chain detailing is not going to be easy to find in a budget friendly version, but there are plenty of options for nude bags with some kind of chain detail! One of my faves has to be this Coquette bag from J.Crew…

It’s made of suede instead of leather, but it also has that Hobo style you’re looking for with a great chain detail. I own two bags from J.Crew and for the price, you can’t beat them! The quality is fantastic, the leather is super soft and they wear beautifully–this Coquette bag is $248, so it’s not exactly chaeap, but it’s about 1/4 of the price of the Be&D bag!

But if you’re budget is $100 or less, check below for some super cheap but chic versions! And Deidre, I have a feeling this nude hobo might just be the “it” handbag for Spring 2011!

More Forever 21…

Hi Cheapchicas! I have a problem: I am a college student in New York and it’s so COLD out. I’m having trouble trying to layer my clothes appropriately for the weather while still looking chic. After a few sweaters I always end up looking ridiculously bulky/boxy so I almost always give up and throw on a hoody…blah! I already have a cute pea coat but I was wondering if you had any advice for what outfits work best underneath the coat? What pieces are essential for layering in this cold, cold weather? Thank you!

To stay this warm this winter, I love layering cozy, soft knits. In my opinion, the key to layering without the bulk is to pick lightweight fabrics (like cashmere) that are super warm and insulating and then wear those under a heavier sweater or wool blazer. For example, a cashmere/ cashmere blend sweater would look great under a big chunky sweater like this one (that has room under it)…and you get twice the warmth! People also forget how important it is to layer under your sweaters…a tank top just isn’t enough! Instead, try a long sleeve tissue tee for those really brisk days!

Now if you still feel bulky when you have those three layers on, try belting the sweater if it’s more of a cardigan style or you can even belt your coat for a slimmer look like Cameron Diaz in the picture above.

On the bottom, get yourself a pair of fleece lined leggings ASAP or a great pair of skinny cords! Jeans will leave you freezing when the temperatures drop!  And don’t underestimate the power of a flat riding boot!  They are my winter go-to and both leggings and skinny cords look great tucked into them.

You can even add a little extra pop of color to your outfit by adding a pair of thick knee high wool socks that peek out at the top of the boot to add some fun to your outfit!

And just because its cold out don’t count out skirts–on days when the temps get above freezing! One of my favorite looks for the Winter is wearing long maxi skirts (turban optional!) like the one pictured here with super cozy/chunky cropped sweaters.  You can even pull off a mini wool skirt if it’s paired with extra warm cable knit tights like these from American Eagle for $12.50. Just add boots and you will look fashionably put together!

And don’t forget the hat and gloves! When its cold and windy you will need them…and the hat will prevent your hair from blowing everywhere and it can also hide a bad winter hair day!  Check out Alloy for a trendy beret and practical but stylish convertible mittens…both under $20!

Lastly, my favorite place to look for inspiration, ELLE Street Chic! They have everyday New Yorkers rocking layers in ways I could never dream of!

More Forever 21…

I love your blog! I check it every morning while I have my coffee at work. Yesterday I was flipping through the most recent People Magazine when I saw this dress on Jennifer Hudson and thought this dress would be perfect for the holidays!! I love the style of it. Please help me find out who makes it & where to get it, or something like it!

XOXO, Christina

Hey Christina!

You are right; Jennifer Hudson looks totally fab in that dress! I love the loose draping (that somehow emphasizes J-Hud’s rockin’ new bod!), the burnt sienna color that’s perfect for the colder months, the Grecian draping, and the asymmetrical skirt that brings to mind the tulip-look that has been everywhere this season. (I also am really digging those silver tipped Louboutin heels… but that’s another post for another day!)

I’ll give you the bad news first: that dress is Lanvin, so probably not the affordable brand you were hoping for! But here’s the good news… after some CheapChica style sleuthing, I’ve found some dresses that capture elements of the style without the luxury label price tag. For only $36, this Lulu’s find is strikingly similar to Hudson’s choice. The deep purple color is perfectly wintery and I adore the sexy slit in the back.

If you’re not digging that choice, it’s all about what you love the most about the dress… If you’re willing to give up the long sleeves, this charcoal wrap dress for less than $75 works–and with tights and a blazer or cardigan, it’s definitely wearable for winter.

Now if it’s long sleeves or nada, these other options are a tad pricier because they’re brand new for the season. If you’re all about rich color, I’d go for this deep purple Ella Moss number, and the asymmetries in these finds from Bailey 44 and MaxStudio are super creative and gorge!

I hope one of these suits you, Christina! Leave a comment letting us know what you think!

First of all I am ADDICTED to your site. I check it daily. I have a dilemma! I recently just bought this sequin cardigan from Express, and I thought it was SUPER cute in the store but now that I think about it I don’t know what to wear it with! I was hoping you can help give me some ideas! Thank you!

I get myself into the same situation all the time, but you just need to search your closet. I always end up finding something that will work.

I love this sweater for the upcoming holiday season! Its got just the right touch of sparkle that can work for day and night and it’s totally festive without going overboard! I’m not sure what color you picked up, but my faves are the green briar (pictured) and the powder.

This cardigan is versatile enough to work work with jeans, skirts or even over a dress but I suggest you stick with a dark color for the bottom half.

For day, try this with skinny jeans, a striped tee and flats or boots if its cold out.  For evening, throw it over a brocade skirt (love this one from LOFT) or a dress like this one from F21, to add some warmth without compromising one ounce of style.

I would also recommend that you belt the sweater with a skinny belt. Try this one from American Apparel–it comes in green, brown, and powder and it will work perfectly with this cardi!  Or you can add a little metallic to your look with this J.Crew style in gold or silver for $25!

UPDATE: Save 20% on both styles below if you shop today during their Cyber Monday promo!

I’ll be spending New Year’s Eve at a friends loft party in New York City and while it may sound glamorous, the not so glamorous truth is that I’m a starving student with almost no budget for this big night out.  I can probably spend $50-100 on a new dress, but no more.  Problem is, everything I find looks super cheesy and cheap (in the bad way of course)! Oh and I need to wear silver shoes that were left over from a bridesmaid dress! Please help me find a dress that works!

Ariel-

Fear not! Cheap, yet chic is our specialty and there are plenty of options out there for you.  NYE is one of the biggest nights of the year and since everyone will clearly be dressed to the nines at this event, you don’t want to be the girl in the dumpy dress so I think I found two that will work perfectly with your budget, and with your shoes!

First up for under $50 is a classic LBD with a hint of sparkle and shine!  I love a full sequin dress for New Years, but they aren’t for everyone and they’re expensive! I also think that sequins can be better in small doses–like a jacket or a skirt or in this case a great belt!  This dress from Windsor is only $39.90 but it looks way more expensive.  I own a coral dress very similar to this one and it’s one of the most complimented dresses in my closet!  And since you saved so much on the dress, you can even splurge on a pair of statement earrings to complete your look!

Next suggestion for under $100 is this gold stunner!  I love the simplicity of this style and the sweetheart neckline is one of my faves when it comes to cocktail dresses.

This color gold is also the right shade gold, if you know what I mean…subtle, not shiny! Gold dresses have also been one of the hottest trends on the red carpet so its sure to turn heads from both guys and girls!  And while you might be tempted to go matchy-matchy with gold shoes, that would be the wrong choice.  Your silver ones are the perfect contrast and they’ll help highlight the silver rhinestone buttons!

And if I’m off the mark with these two picks, browse through the selection of dresses on Windsor’s site. You can even sort by “Dresses Under $50″ so you won’t be lusting after something you can’t afford! Gotta love that!

I recently moved from Los Angeles to Chicago, and I am looking for a new job. The weather is getting cooler and my Los Angeles wardrobe is very much lacking in warmer apparel, especially warm clothes and shoes to wear if I have an interview. I am stumped. Do you have any advice?

Please and thank you,
Heather

Heather, its always sad to leave a city behind, but at least its to a great city like, Chicago. I love Chicago! They have some of the best shopping and restaurants in the country. However, as I am sure you know the December in Chicago is very different from December in LA. There are some basics you’re gonna need to survive the frigid weather but first remember that the best way to stretch your LA wardrobe is through layering!

You can take any of your warmer wear from summer to fall just by layering. Take for example, this look on Olivia Palmero! It’s perfect for your upcoming interviews!  Just by adding tights, boots, and a blazer, you can make most of your LA skirts season appropriate for Chicago.

A basic blazer will also give you a lot of corporate mileage…pair it with different separates for both work and play. Slacks or a shirt-dress for the office and skinny jeans or riding pants for after work!  You can also add a scarf and wool pea coat/trench to create a warm and layered look perfect for getting you to/from an interview.

And don’t feel like you have to go out and get a whole new wardrobe, just stock up on the basic essentials first. Some of the must haves…sleek leather knee-high boots (you can put super warm wool socks on over your tights!), a chic coat, dark tights (try textured if its not a super conservative office), and a pencil skirt.  In case you don’t already have an ample amount of these, try Ann Taylor outlet or LOFT!  Finally, I love layered cardigans (try the J.Crew Factory Store or these from Old Navy) for keeping warm in style. All of these buys will help you make the most of the pieces you already have.

Remember, even if you’re interviewing in a conservative office you don’t need to sacrifice style. You can still wear boots with skirts or even a dress…just remember to keep the heels low and keep your clothes solid for a great base.  Just add a great necklace to liven up your look!  Good luck with the job hunt!

More Old Navy…

I am going to a wedding at the end of October, and I am having a terrible time finding the right dress. I’ve  been looking for a couple of months and nothing is wowing me – I’ve tried dresses from ASOS, ModCloth, etc. to no avail. I want something unique that others aren’t likely to have, and preferably in a jewel tone – but not a deep purple, as that’s the color of the bridesmaid dresses. Please Help!
Thanks,

Courtney

Courtney, you never wanna show up to a wedding wearing the same thing as another person-that’s a total fashion faux pas and I love your idea of wearing a jewel tone dress.  Jewel tone colors add richness to any look and they’re perfect for a Fall wedding!

There are a lot of great online boutiques like Lulu’s and the Spotted Moth where you can find stylish, yet affordable cocktail dresses that would be perfect for your upcoming wedding.  I also always love the Aqua line from Bloomingdales–but make sure you shop in-store as their selection online isn’t a good representation of how much they carry in-stores!

For under $100, I think this deep blue dress would be perfect for the wedding! The origami detail on the bodice plus the one shoulder silhouette will definitely help you stand out from the crowd of well dressed guests!

But in case blue isn’t your color I love this pink dress from Spotted Moth for only $48.99!! I love the long sleeved one-shoulder look as an update for the cooler months and this dress is sure to turn some heads!

PS: use code cheapchica for 25% off any order at Spotted Moth!

Lastly, always check out Lulu’s for some cheap and chic options. I found so many great jewel tone dresses…some of my favorites are this sexy red number and this emerald green stunner. The best part is that they’re both well under $100!