Dear CheapChica

First, I love your site. I stumbled upon it about a month ago and I wake up every morning anxious to read my CheapChicas email!

I’ve already had GREAT success with a couple of purchases suggested on the site.  Lately I’ve been seeing capes everywhere (runways, magazines, blogs) and I’ve fallen in love. BUT I haven’t found any good, affordable ones yet….I love this Burberry one!  Please help me find something similar.

I am so glad to hear that you’ve had success with so many of our past picks and you’re so right, capes are everywhere!

Capes have been seen on runways for the past couple of years but this season they have really taken off! Great for fall, they are a very chic outerwear option.

The Burberry cape you spotted is chic and fashion forward…we all know that Burberry is the epitome of classic British sportswear and their coats/capes rarely go out of style. However, the cape has a price tag of $995 which is not only totally unrealistic for all of us, but it’s also not worth spending that kind of money on an item that might be a passing trend.

One of my favorite fashionable stores from across the pond is ASOS…they have great frugal finds and they are always on trend.  Case in point, this cape for $117.95 is very similar the Burberry one but for a fraction of the price. The color, buttons and shoulder details are almost identical!

If you want to browse more options, I have included a few favorite affordable capes to aid you in your search!

More Asos…

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!

More Asos…

I just found out that this year at my high school we aren’t going to have lockers anymore, which means I am going to have to carry around all my books in a backpack instead of a purse! Aaaah! Do you know of any backpacks out there that are cute but still functional and reasonably priced?
Alexa

Alexa, think of this as an opportunity to really flaunt your style! There are some really cute backpacks out there, but I would say the way to to go is a super hot messenger bag. Don’t be worried about finding the biggest bag you can, you don’t need all your books all the time…consolidate your notes into one big binder or notebook…you want to lighten your load. Then if you’re out shopping on your own make sure your biggest item fits inside and that strap is strong enough to prevent your bag from snapping in the middle of the hallway.

Like I said, keep your eye out for messenger bags. They are are so hot for fall and this Proenza Schouler PS1 Leather Satchel has been popping up on celeb’s shoulders everywhere…everyone from Mary-Kate Olsen to Leighton Meester have been sporting this carry-all.

The buckles and hardware are utilitarian inspired and I have to tell you, I love the utilitarian look for fall! This bag is the perfect way to incorporate one of Fall’s biggest trends into your everyday look.

For some fun options, check out ASOS–I found a very similar option for $100 that would be great for you!

And, while Mary-Kate Olsen might be able to buy the PS bag in every color under the sun for $1,595 a pop, the rest of us can’t! But scroll through some of the options I found and get the look for a fraction of the price!

More Topshop…

Hi!!

I am looking for the perfect, round toed, black pump. The only one I can find that I like is the Louboutin simple pump (not stacked), but I don’t want to spend $600$ on black pumps.

Do you know of any other pumps that are similar?

Thanks, Vanessa!

You have great taste Vanessa! Christian Louboutin produces classic silhouettes combined with modern sex appeal and great construction. Long story short, they’re every girls dream, as well as mine and yours! They notoriously fit the bill as the perfect high heel and when your working long hours in heels you want to have a quality shoe to prevent your feet from wanting to fall off at the end of the night.

All that being said, you don’t have to spend $600 b/c there are plenty of great options out there for under $100! Some of the best places to shop include DSW, Aldo, and Macy’s. These stores have a huge selection and a range of prices to suit any budget.

These Jessica Simpson pumps are almost identical to your Louboutin dream. They both have a modest 3 1/2 inch heel, they’re patent leather and they feature a classic round toe!

AND this isn’t the only match I found! My other favorites…versions by Michael Michael Kors and Ann Taylor.  Both are a great classic black pump that are a perfect fit for any office and they won’t need you to work overtime to pay them off!

Try these options and I promise you won’t even miss that red sole!

So, cutout dresses have been popping up everywhere, on the Hills, in the magazines and I love the look of them! I love the look of this one from Top Shop. However, it is only available in a 10 or 12. I can’t find one that looks similar to that on a reasonable budget and in my size! (0, 2 or 4 would do!) Are there any still available? Most places are all sold out and I NEED this dress in my closet! Thanks!!!

Gaby

Gaby, I feel your pain! It is the worst when the perfect AND affordable piece is out of your size! That dress you picked out is so hot and sexy its tough to find one that is exactly the same…

but this trend is so sizzlin’ for summer 2010 that there are so many affordable options out there with similar cut out details and I found some great options below for all under $100!!

What I really like about your Top Shop selection is that its black. When you’re wearing something that is more revealing a muted color adds sophistication.

I found this amazing number on the left at Top Shop as well! It has both the front and back cutouts that you were looking for and I love the neutral creme blocking on the edge of the cut outs…neutral tones are super trendy for the summer!

European online stores like Top Shop and ASOS always have a full range of prices and cutting edge styles.

I also found a ton of affordable options at sexy stores like Victoria’s Secret and  Arben B. And if you are out shopping I’m sure you would find a similar style at one of my meccas, H&M.

This dress on the right from Urban Outfitters is not an exact replica of your selection but I LOVE the way the cut outs are done on this look!

The strappy back is so pretty and seductive! The front is super fitted and sexy but offers a bit more coverage, which keeps this dress from feeling over-exposed.

Clearly you’re not shy and these dresses are all about going for it, but don’t over do it with a lot of accessories…top this look off with some killer stilettos and be ready for all eyes to be on you!

And in case none of these work for you, check out the myriad of options below…

More Arden B…

Your blog is fabulous!!!  I recently graduated college and now have to make my way into the working world.  However, I don’t want my style to be limited by appropriate work attire clothes and their cost.  Do you know of any good places or options to make work outfits look good without costing my entire paycheck?  Thank you so much

Sara

Great question Sara! You are definitely not alone, we have gotten similar questions from a lot of other readers. Looking fabulous while saving cash is our main motivation at CheapChicas and one of the best ways to save is making sure you have a versatile wardrobe that goes easily from work to play!

Going forward you should start with spending some cash on great work basics to build a wardrobe. But make sure you shop smart, get pieces that you can imagine wearing out of work as well. Make sure you pick up a white button up, a great pencil skirt, a classic blazer and an array of colorful cardigans.

Another way to take your work clothes from day to night and a great way to add style to your outfit is to layer, layer, layer. LOFT is doing a great job right now on showing great looks for working women.  And be sure to check out your local outlet stores.  Ann Taylor is typically out of my price range, but they’re outlet prices can’t be  beat and they’re great for feminine work clothes that are classic and chic!

J.Crew (on sale), Loft, H&M, Banana Republic(on sale) and Macy’s (Rachel Roy is one of my faves!) are always showing great pieces for young professionals that are really versatile. Also, don’t count out stores like NY&Company, Gap, and the Limited for basics.

You can also save yourself some money by keeping your current closet in mind when you’re shopping.  Only buy new pieces that will dress up casual pieces like classic cardigans and slacks that you already own.

Lastly, invest in accessories! Accessories are what will make your pieces look different everyday. Go for one single piece for day, long and soft necklaces or something a little chunkier (as pictured on the right).

For night try layering–whether it’s tons of bracelets, multiple rings or several necklaces!  This is my favorite way to transition any outfit to evening.

The number one rule for me when it comes to office attire, don’t buy things for work that aren’t you!  You don’t have to dress drab just because you’re stuck in an office. Play with colors and textures and don’t be afraid to mix and match–break up a clasic suit instead of wearing it together for a look that’s uniquely you!

This way, I promise everything in your closet will be able to work in and out of the office depending on how you utilize everything you got!

Hi!
I recently graduated from college and I’m looking for a full-time job in advertising and/or public relations. I’m having a difficult time finding a professional, creative, chic bag on a budget. Any suggestions?
Thanks!
Creative New Professional

Congratulations on your graduation! This must be a really exciting time for you! First impressions are so important in the business world and that includes  your whole look–head to toe!

Accessories are what we typically use to express our personal style, but sometimes the workplace makes us tone down our style…just a little. But for every rule there’s an exception and thanks to these amazing bags below, you won’t have to compromise your personal style for the office!

When it comes to a great work bag, its always important to combine both function and style. You are going to want a bag that is large enough to fit your laptop and everything else you may need for your day so opt for a large structured satchel/tote.

And if your office is a little more business-casual,  you could even do a urban cross-body carry-all (this is a great shape if you have to carry a laptop).

However…..if you’re still in the interview process, I would go for the more classic satchel–it’ll be the most versatile for different professional environments.

And classic doesn’t have to mean boring, find a classic shape but spice it up with colors, textures and hardware. Some of my favorite trends in bags right now include, pastels and neutrals, chained handles, neon and brights, cross-body straps.

Aldo is a great place to shop for bags, as well as Asos and DSW!  And never count out TJMaxx and Marshalls–I just found an incredible Prada bag there for 65% off retail!!

Also the great thing is that all of these bags are a fantastic option for outside the office as well!

More Aldo…

I’m attending a very prestigious, upscale wedding on June 19 and have no idea what to wear!  The wedding is at 4:30 pm and I have to wear some kind of a cocktail dress, but the wedding is also outside and I have to wear shoes that can be easily worn on grass….but no stilettos!  Any suggestions for a dress and shoes that would be appropriate?
Thanks,

Rebecca

Thanks so much for writing in! This is a tough question that so many of us stress about when weddings take place during that “limbo” time between afternoon and evening…

my idea for a look that goes perfectly from day to night is a maxi dress! Maxis are great for summer and can be super stylish if you find the right one!  This one from BCBGeneration is sophisticated enough for your event thanks to the panel detail (so cute and very designer-y looking!) and the fabric.

Most maxis out there are made from cotton, but a fabric that casual has no place at a fancy wedding, so look for a dress like this one with the “look” and feel of silk (poly blend but no one will ever have to know!) for a dressier result.

When it comes to shoes, go for a wedge.  They’re practical for outdoor events (no sinking into the ground as you walk/dance) but they will still give you some height. I love these from Steve Madden…and they totally compliment the blue in the dress. 

My only problem with wedges is that they don’t exactly scream formal or elegance, so lucky for you, you can cover them up with your beautiful maxi–but still wear them after the wedding all Summer long!!

Now you have the shoes and the dress, but your accessories are what’s going to take this dress to the next level. A big  necklace in orange combined with an arm full of gold bangles with give this dress the “prestige” you were looking for. And if orange isn’t your thing, try accessories that incorporate gold and play up the colors in the dress. Have fun at your event and send us a pic of your final outfit if you can!!

More Anthropologie…

I love your site – it’s sooooo fun! I need a little help…
I am in a wedding at the end of March. And my best friend is giving us bridesmaids the freedom of getting our own dresses with 2 requirements…the dress must be coral and it needs to be ‘vintage-y’.  Do you have any suggestions where I could find a coral color dress, with a vintage look – without breaking the bank?
Thanks,
Elena

I’m so excited that you wrote in! I have the perfect dress for you and I think your budget and bride will love it!  Coral is one of the hottest colors of the season so you’re in luck because this dress from Windsor will be something you can actually wear long after the ceremony!

I picked this dress for a few reasons: the cut-very 40’s “vintage-y”, the fabric- a hint of sheen and because it’s the perfect blank canvas for you to accessorize!

As a bridesmaid, you can get lost in your bride’s choices for you, but with a dress like this, you really have the ability to make it your own!  Depending on whether you want to go classic or colorful, here are a few options for the perfect wedding look!

And like anyone who’s been in multiple bridal parties will tell you, the cost of these dresses can really add up over time so the fact that this one costs less than $60 makes it a total no-brainer and everything I paired with it comes in well under $100 as well!