by Lauren on March 4, 2010
Dear Cheap Chica,
I just received my BCBG Bandage Skirt in royal blue and I don’t know what to wear it! Please help me style an outfit for this awesome skirt!!
Thanks!
Tiffany
Dear Tiffany,
I have to say that your choice in skirts is fabulous and I’m so happy to hear that you chose it in royal blue! The bandage skirt is one of the hottest trends we are seeing this season!
If you’re willing to go bold, my advice is to hit up a primary color and find a unique silhouette like this top from Forever 21. This one is a little on the longer side, but you’ll be tucking it in and I like the contrast of a voluminous top with such a tight fitting skirt.
A top in a bright, attention getting color like yellow combined with your royal blue skirt will make your outfit look new and seriously updated.
Now if you’re looking for something a little safer, choosing a simple black tank can complete your look as well. Celebrities such as Lauren Conrad and Rhianna and have both been spotted in this sleek and sexy look.
In this look here Conrad chooses to accessorize her blue bandage skirt by keeping everything else black…and this definitely allows her skirt to be her main attraction!
When it come to shoes opt for a high pump in any neutral tone for the bright outfit and a black shoe for the simpler look.
The great thing about the bandage skirt is that it’s totally versatile…you can wear this with anything from tanks and tees during the Spring/Summer and with cute leather jackets and your your favorite blazer all year long!
Here are some of my favorite picks for styling your newest purchase…
by Lauren on February 23, 2010
When it comes to makeup there’s one item that never goes out of fashion…mascara! Its been quite some time since we’ve seen Twiggy’s headline making photograph, but one thing remains the same, we all still crave big, beautiful lashes. Luckily, you don’t need a supermodel-size paycheck to get them!
Cover Girl’s LashBlast Mascara is my favorite make-up product for getting gorgeous, full lashes and it retails for less then $8.00! Mascara is one beauty item I never spend money on because there’s really no need when my LashBlast does the same thing a department store mascara will, every time!
Here are a few tips for getting ultra-long full lashes:
Start with your favorite eyeliner and line the upper lid of your lashes. This will allow you to reach the root of your lashes and give your eyes a cleaner look.
Next, you should invest in a eyelash curler that you are comfortable using and curl your upper lashes. Many women tend to skip this part because they don’t want to spend money on something they think they don’t need. For all you women who wish you had larger eyes this is the # 1 trick. Using an eyelash curler will open up your eyes since the lashes are curled and lifted away from the eye.
Last but not least, add the mascara! This is your most important step. Remember to always start from the root of your lashes and stroke upward. I also like to wiggle the brush as I go up to make sure I’m coating each lash. One to two coats usually does the trick but if you feel like you need more, no one is stopping you! This is another reason I love the LashBlast formula…it’s thin so it’s optimized for layering and it never gets clumpy or sticky.
And if you have short, sparse lashes, there’s nothing wrong with adding a few fake lashes to enhance your eyes, but I suggest you go for the individual ones and not the full sets. BTW, You can pick these up for only $13 at most department stores and they last for multiple applications since you’re only using a few at a time!
So… what’s the final step into letting you lashes be your statement look of the night? Keep your foundation soft, your cheeks warm and always, always stay in the nude tones when it comes to your lips. Simple lips and strong eyes will always be on trend!
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by Lauren on January 10, 2010
What better way to start the New Year then to update your look. Say good by to ‘09 and hello to 2010 with some new (and old) staples that will make you feel like you bought a whole new wardrobe.
We sometimes think that to start the new year off right we need to throw out the old and bring in the new…but that’s not always the case. Alhough 2010 is blooming with mixed prints, slouchy silhouettes and sequins, these are all items you may find in your closets from previous seasons.
For starters, keep anything from a floral to a funky print. These are pieces you’ll find yourself wearing for this Spring. Ditto for your boyfriend blazer, white tee and tights, but as for your boyfriend jeans, you can pack them away. This season it’s all about a soft pant in lightweight fabrics like jersey and silk which will become the new “go-to” style for pants.
Sequins were everywhere–we say them early Fall and then they dominated for the Holiday season. For Spring 2010, look for a sequin jacket in a print like this one from ASOS which retails for only $40.97. This printed or even ombre sequin look is a great way to update your look for 2010–not to mention, you won’t have to add any extra accessories.
For a more casual jacket, choose a tweed style that screams vintage and modern at the same time. For shoes, the “shootie” will remain a staple item, but try one in bold color and an open-toe style for Spring.
And don’t forget to pick up some fun accessories to finish off your new look! Anything chunky is still on-trend, but if you’re looking for one item that will compliment anything in your wardrobe–choose over-sized links! These chunky chains are the latest must-have accessory and they’ve come a long way from those 90’s rap videos!
Here are some of my favorite picks for 2010 for under $50…. Enjoy!
by Lauren on November 24, 2009
I recently saw images from an ad campaign for a new “Boutique” collection and instantly fell in love! The designs are so pretty and they all have a vintage inspired look to them that I just couldn’t resist…but when I found out where they were actually from, I couldn’t believe it and you won’t either.
We all know by now that I’m pretty obsessed with shopping at Forever 21…it’s trendy, chic and always affordable. So where exactly are these vintage inspired pieces from?? You guessed it, it’s Forever 21!
They have recently added so many new lines to the store and their latest introduction is called Boutique by Forever 21. The line is full of feminine and romantic silhouettes and lucky for us, the items from Boutique are still very affordable. This beaded crepe chiffon top retails for only $24.80!
But if you’re looking for a more formal and feminine element to wear with tights this fall you’ll love this Roman sequin top that’s only $29.80!
All of the pieces from Boutique retail for under $35.00… so if you’re looking for vintage inspired pieces that are easy on the wallet and big on style this collection is definitely the way to go. I can’t wait to see what else they’ll be designing for Spring 2010!
by Lauren on November 22, 2009
I have countless fashion magazines that I love reading but Harper’s Bazaar is one of my top faves! I recently purchased the new issue and to no surprise it was covered in Twilight.
I’m shocked at how many people are totally obsessed with it. I have to admit, I’ve never read the books and thought the movie wasn’t as great as everyone made it out to be, but in this issue of Bazaar, Kristen Stewart and Rob Pattinson looked amazingly chic in a very Gothic romance kind of way…not to mention, sexier then ever! Great job by the stylist and photographer and BTW, they are TOTALLY dating!
If you’re anything like me you probably agree that the lovely Bella desperately needs a personal stylist. I understand that the tom-boyish style is sort of her thang, but let me tell ya… it doesn’t work so well on the red carpet. She always looks like she’s not quite sure of herself and looks so out of place, clothing wise, at some of these celebrity events.
But in this Winter issue she sports countless pieces that are TDF! From Alexander Wang’s mini LBD to Versace’s seductive black gown…these are looks that will make you say WOW!
So for all you Twilight fans who’ve already seen New Moon, pick up an issue of Bazaar because this is one spread you’ll be wanting to get your hands on!
by Lauren on November 17, 2009
UM..? Can we say cute or what?!?
It’s no wonder why we love watching The City. Reality TV’s sweetheart, Whitney Port looks amazingly chic in this mix-n-match ensemble. I love seeing celebrities dressed in something that crosses between funky, yet polished at the same time. And this is one look that does it well!
This year, the blazer has fallen into so many categories… from work mode to the boyfriend look that we all love. But to feel really current, instead of a solid colored blazer with traditional tights or leggings, why not choose a plaid one like Whitney did here? I’m a huge fan of her choice in clothing because it’s always somewhat unexpected and nothing ever looks too too safe.
Plaid is one of the hottest trends you’ll be seeing this season! I love her choice of a striped shirt with a plaid jacket, which allows the looks to be funky and chic all at once. And choosing a solid color, like black on the bottom, will always finish your look off right!
Her 80’s inspired earrings, chunky watch, neutral handbag (that I’m dying for) and studded pumps are added on for a chic finishing touch. Ms. Port has stolen the spotlight from LC this season and I can’t wait to see what else she will be pulling off this winter.
This is a look that can be worn practically anywhere and for a fraction of Whitney’s oufit, here are some items I’ve found for you….Enjoy!
by Lauren on November 9, 2009
As Rachel Zoe would say… “I’m literally dying” and I believe she is too! It’s official that her assistant Taylor Jacobson finally said goodbye to the Rachel Zoe Project.
After hearing her say numerous times that she was going to leave, she actually did it. Without Tay-Tay what will the Stylist Diva do? I really hope that Brad Goreski can fill her shoes and not leave designer dresses sitting in water like he did the first season!
After four years of styling with Rachel, Taylor has decided to leave to pursue celebrity styling on her own…so congrats to you Tay! We’ll miss your edgy rocker style and your devotion to Ms. Zoe…
But in our eyes, Rachel will always be numero uno!
by Lauren on October 30, 2009
OK.. so I know that the LBD is the #1 dress to own but, this holiday season, it’s all about the little “RD” (Red Dress) instead! I know red can feel difficult to pull off, but rest assured that there’s a shade of red to compliment everyone!
For all you fashionistas like myself, when you’re picking out a red dress there are a few pointers you may want to follow…
Sometimes, this vibrant hue can find itself on the borderline between chic and cheap, so make sure you find a dress with a silhouette that’s sophisticated and modern. And if you’re going to be buying this dress for multiple occasions (always a money saver!), it might be ok to spend up to $100 on an amazing, eye- catching number!
Always remember to try on the dress in question with your hair down! If you’re brunette like me go for a shade that is darker and more of a brick or burgundy red. For those who sport beautiful red hair like Isla Fisher or Debra Messing choose a red that is a warmer and brighter. Finally, for all you blonde bomb-shells, like The Cheap Chica herself, any shade from candy red to apple red will do!
Unfortunately, I haven’t bought myself a red dress yet but, tomorrow I’ll definitely be on the hunt for one since my friend Lauren will be walking down the isle this weekend! I might even pick up this adorable cherry red dress from Free People on sale for $49.95… it’s too cute to resist and it will also be a perfect dress for the up-coming holidays!
So this season, choose a red dress in your favorite silhouette…whether its a one shoulder, sweetheart, or spaghetti strap dress and enjoy being the center of attention!
by Lauren on October 13, 2009
You all know that I’ve always been a big fan of the “DIY” thing when it comes to shoes. Especially because I find myself having a particular look in mind and never being able to find it out there.
Well, now Aldo Shoes is offering a chance for all you up-coming designers to design your own pair of shoes.
But it doesn’t stop there, choose a pump, boot or bag and get started in creating a one of a kind piece and enter to win!
Your amazing creation will even be judged by Aldo’s creative team as well as Teen Vogue’s fashion experts. The winner will collaborate with Aldo on a new Aldo design that will be featured in the Fall and Winter Collection for 2010!
All you have to do is grab an Aldo shoe , boot or bag, add your very own signature style, take a pic and send it to the judges. So.. if you’re interested in this once in a lifetime chance to have your very own designs collaborated with Aldo click here for their contest rules and Good Luck!
by Lauren on October 10, 2009
Lately I’ve been shoe shopping for fall’s must-have boots but in the process I’ve also seen some amazing pumps covered in the always questionable…leopard print. And since this print tends to fall in that gray area between cheap and chic I’m here to tell you how to pull it off correctly!
Though I love to mix and match prints, leopard is one I like to keep all by its lonesome self because it’s such a statement and it can oftentimes feel hard to pull off an exotic print…but not when you wear it on your feet! Owning a pair of leopard shoes can change your wardrobe forever…instead of putting on those boring black heels that you always wear, switch it up and go bold with leopard!
A dark wash jean, solid leggings, leather bomber jacks and a LBD are all key pieces that will look great with an amazing leopard heel. Jessica Alba, Nicole Richie and Rihanna are all fans when it comes to this particular animal print and we don’t have to ask why.
Remember…by wearing this print on feet and keeping everything solid you’ll end up with a look that’s totally fab and never cheap. Here are a few options, starting as low as $7.50, in various heights and colors…
by Lauren on October 3, 2009
OK….Seriously? Can you check out these gorgeous ruffled pumps by Badgley Mischka…who even know they made shoes!? I was recently on Heels.com (amazing shoe site btw) and decided to check out Badgley Mischka’s shoe collection.
They were all so pretty but when I saw these AMAZING pumps I instantly wanted them. Wouldn’t you? Unfortunetly my ruffled must-haves are $194.00 so I guess I’ll just have to wait and pray that they go on sale!
UPDATE: Found these for half the price and less!!!
by Lauren on September 29, 2009
It’s no wonder why we love The Hills and now The City…it’s the best place to see what those reality starlets/fashionistas have decided to put on for their days. But you have to admit that what you wear in Cali won’t be your first pick when it comes to dressing on the East coast especially in this transitional season.
We all know the weather has been pretty unpredictable this year, not to mention it hasn’t been the hottest summer ever, so what do you do when it’s still not cold enough to throw on your scarf and gloves but not hot enough to wear your fave lil’ sundress?
When I saw this pic of The City’s main attraction, Whitney Port in all these must-have layers, I thought what a perfect transitional outfit! Instead of purchasing a whole new wardrobe this Fall, wait until it gets really cold to make that winter purchase you normally would make.
My advise to those who want to save some cash this Fall is to work with what you already have. Add on layers to your Spring wardrobe by putting tights under a skirt, a long sleeve- tee under a sleeveless top, or even add a sweater over your dress! It will create endless new looks, save you serious cash, and leave you with a wardrobe you didn’t even know you had.
So keep your cash and spend it on only on those items you know you need. Whether it’s new leather booties or a Gossip Girl style peacoat that you’ll wear all winter long.
Here are a few of my favorites……
by Lauren on September 16, 2009
So I have to say that I am extremely ready for Fall especially when it comes to those chunky scarves and over-the-knee boots, but it was AMAZING to see the Spring Collections for 2010! I had the opportunity to see Twinkle by Wenlan’s Spring Collection.
The mixture of quirky and bold prints with chunky jewelry from top to bottom was nothing less then amazing. She showed a punch of color with feminine silhouettes that every girl will totally crave …including actresses like Reshma Shetty from Royal Pains and Yin Chang, (she plays Blair Waldorf’s rival on GG) who happend to be part of the backstage scene at Twinkle.
I really enjoyed Twinkle’s show, but Cynthia Steffe and Luca Luca are two of my favorite designers and their collections for next Spring did not disappoint! They’re both extremely brilliant when it come to dressing a woman’s body and I’m already dying for many pieces from their collections!
But for now Spring will just have to wait because I’m all about instant gratification and I’m ready to shop for Fall!
Stay tuned…more behind the scenes action from Brian Reyes, Tibi and Tadashi coming up tomorrow…and some fun celeb sightings too!
by Lauren on September 9, 2009
If your looking for a look that describes the word “perfect” this has to be it…
Emmy Rossum never misses a step on the red carpet and she never seems to disappoint when trying to look both feminine and chic!
She was recently spotted in this creamy vanilla dress by Temperley and she complimented it with just the right mix of accessories… a necklace with a hint of red, a metallic belt and to finish off the look, those fabulous bronzed shoes of hers. It’s totally understated but at the same time totally inspired!
If you don’t have Emmy’s amazing million dollar paychecks, you can still get this look for a fraction of its price with these budget buys below that will have you looking like one of Hollywood’s most stylish starlets…
by Lauren on August 25, 2009
One of my favorite sites to shop for designer brands online is Shopbop. They have an amazing selection of both clothes and accessories… and whether its a necklace I’ve been lusting after or a blazer I’m in dire need of, they always have exactly what I’m looking for.
They even offer some amazing sales that result in incredible prices on top designers like my fave, Erin Fetherston! Her collection is unbelievable and if you haven’t seen it, you must check it out for yourself.
But besides shopping at Shopbop, this week they’re giving away a chance to win a FREE Trip to New York Fashion Week with Shopbop and Erin Fetherston! The package includes a 3 night stay, round trip airfare, 2 invites (you and your bff), $400 to spend and…..a $1,000 shopping Spree at Shopbop!
It really can’t get better than that but wait, all you have to do is enter here or go to shopbop.com and click on the latest sweepstakes. Fill out your email address and submit it. Good luck and hurry because this offer ends Thursday.
