Oct 3, 2008 | Fashion, Life, Media
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer & ChicSteals blog
As a designer I’ve developed an eye for style over the years, and an appreciation for the fact that sometimes, designer pricetags can be downright scary. While life necessitates a splurge once in a while on that can’t-live-without-it fabulous item, much of the fun of fashion is mixing high with low to create outfits that are creative, and also budget-friendly. Each week, I showcase five hot designer-style steals (each for $100 or, in most cases, for much, much less)…along with one must-splurge item.
Although the focus of this column is getting the look for less, truly stylish choices are about more than just the bottom line. To avoid becoming fashion roadkill, busted as a Fashion Don’t by E! or worse, black-barred in the back of Glamour, here are five timeless tips on how to safely stay fabulous (plus some fabulous outfit ideas to get you started):
1. ONE LABEL HEAD-TO-TOE IS A NO-NO
Unless you’re on the catwalk, the Chanel-clad matriarch of an old-money family, the designer him/herself and/or schmoozing with the actual designer (like Lil’ Kim at the Cinema Society screening of Marc Jacobs & Louis Vuitton), avoid looking like a walking billboard by rocking pieces from multiple labels. Lil’ Kim’s red heels would definitely look more fab paired with a neutral cami or blouse, this $30 dip-dye silk skirt from Forever21.com (right), and some accessories in red & pink to balance everything out. Oftentimes, even the designer doesn’t intend for all his pieces to be worn together…it’s overkill. (3.1 Phillip Lim bead-embellished silk blouse;
Stella McCartney wooden belt;
Linda Farrow Luxe 24k gold-rimmed sunglasses;
Chloe Saskia tote;
Two Lips Cotton Club pumps)
2. NEVER SLAVISHLY COPYCAT A CELEB
Even if you could afford the same eyecatching ensemble as seen on the it-girl du jour, a famous outfit once worn…is worn. Re-creating it slavishly tells the world the wearer is a wannabe sans her own stylish flair. Instead, steal what you loved most about the outfit and customize it. (For example, the oversized gray tee Rachel Bilson wore belted as a dress: American Apparel has a similar version for $20 in their men’s section – just buy an XL or XXL and rock it with your own cool belt.) Be inspired by – but don’t mimic – high profile fashionistas. By accessorizing an outfit similarly and making it your own, you’ll be hailed as a maven of fashion-forward style. (Rag & Bone Blade Belt; Grace Hats Leaves Hat;
Nooka Zub 38 Zot GG Watch; 
Bliz black leather gladiator sandal) 
BBUNNY black Paris hobo
3. DO WEAR THE RIGHT SIZE
The first rule of shopping American sizing is too ignore what the tag says; it’s called vanity sizing for a reason and is a cynical attempt to capitalize on those headgames we all play in the dressing room (“I know deep down inside I’m a Size 8, but these say they’re a 2 & if I lay down on the floor and squeeze, they fit!“) Size inflation is less of a problem with European labels because their sizes are standardized. Also, ignore that pesky little voice that insists, “I used to be a 6 ten years ago, so I can still squeeze my ass into Size 6 jeans!“). Instead, focus on the evidence: how does it fit and what does the mirror say. If you have your own Hollywood trainer, be our guest and look like you’ve been poured into your clothes…but remember, the truly stylish don’t hesitate to retire the low-rise muffin-top jeans in favor of a mid-rise that fits, aren’t afraid go up a size if need be, and seek out fabrics and cuts that skim flatteringly instead of hug. (Matthew Williamson beaded chiffon blouse;
18th Amendment Colbert jeans;
Oliver Peoples Hollis sunglasses;
Chloe oversized leather tote;
Celestina stone-embellished cuff;
blue patent Stackedd peep toe pump) 
4. DON’T TRY TOO HARD
For every Kate (Hudson or Moss) who always seems to look effortlessly stylish, there is the rest of the pack which always looks like they’re trying a bit too hard. Examples include wearing something straight off the runway without translating it into reality, being overly styled, or dressing age-inappropriately (both cougars underdressed in sexxxy 20-something outfits and 20-somethings overdressed in stuffy couture). Leave an outfit on the rack unless it makes you feel fabulous without too much extra effort…warning signs include requiring some of all of the following to rock this ensemble: your hair being elaborately “done”, the right makeup, shoe, jewelry, and, possibly, underpinnings and lingerie. When in doubt, opt for a classic (like Spiegel’s Matelasse sheath for $70) and remember that less is more…but fun accessories are the spice of life. (RM by Roland Mouret Pigalle wool dress in taupe;
Burberry double-buckle belt;
Donna Karan Mongolian gilet;
Oliver Peoples Skyla sunglasses;
Fendi multicolored ball bracelet;
Alexander McQueen patent Elvie bag;![]()
ight=”1″ src=”http://ad.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/show?id=TKQZGcUMYdw&bids=127413.33599&type=2&subid=0″ width=”1″ /> Mercci snake stiletto) 
5. DRESS FOR YOURSELF
You’re kitted out in a chic Chloe frock, sky-high Loubies, a vintage-fabulous clutch…and all your date/manfriend/husband can seem to muster is a “you look nice” (the same comment you got, ironically, while wearing those low-slung Old Navy sweats and his old wifebeater – sans bra – while lounging around the living room). The fact is, most (straight) men simply don’t care about the fashion curve, and mostly appreciate that (a) you don’t look like their mother, and (b) you’re groomed. While your gay BFFs will thrill over your perfectly-put-together look (which is why we love them & keep them around), what matters is, ultimately, what you think. As styled by fashion iconoclast Patricia Field, Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw got away with some of the kookiest, out-there outfits because she wasn’t dressing to impress, she was dressing for herself. Mix high with low, designer with fast-fashion, and most of all: celebrate…by wearing what you love, just because it makes you feel good!
If there are any high-priced pieces you’d like me to find similar, less costly versions of, please email me at carlyjcais AT fashiontribes DOT com. ‘Til next week, fellow bargain-hunters!
– Carly J. Cais
Feb 21, 2008 | Life, Media
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer
As a designer – my line is RIVETED Clothing & Accessories – I’ve developed an eye for style over the years…and right along with it, a nose for a bargain. Half the fun of fashion is looking fabulous without needing to declare bankruptcy. Each week, I showcase hot designer-style steals (each for $100 or, in most cases, for much, much less)…along with one splurge-worthy item.
It’s that time of year again: the time for some of us that brings decadent gifts in the form of jewelry and chocolates…or the time that some of us refuse to celebrate with resounding “down with love!” anti-V-Day sentiment. Whether you choose to embrace the day or not, Valentine’s Day brings a great opportunity to grab some cute merch at closeout prices, and these picks this week are no exception. Show yourself a little love with these 5 heartful choices – that unlike that box of chocolates from what’s-his-name you can enjoy year-round and mix into your daily wardrobe as you please:
CUTE WRISTLET
From the candy pink box it arrives in to the sweet little heart at the top, this clutch may seem like a gift limited to V-Day…but it’s definitely an accessory that can make an appearance in your everyday wardrobe without a hitch. The little gold scottie tag at the front may inspire you to take this cutie when out walking your pooch or on a short trip down to the corner store – it’s the perfect size for a quick excursion or works great on its own as a sweet little clutch to go with that flowered dress that’s in your closet awaiting the first warm day of Spring. Slip it into a larger tote for workdays and use it alone on the weekends with some denim capris and a big flower corsage pinned to your blouse to celebrate all that is carefree and girly. From Juicy Couture for $95 – it’s a designer steal that will juicy up any outfit.
Scottie Leather Wristlet, $95, Juicycouture.com.
CROPPED PANTS
In February with the winter winds still a-blowing cropped pants require some dark stockings underneath to keep your gams toasty…but in a month all will be forgotten in a flurry of warmer weather. For now, to bring a bit of brightness to these gray days try these lovely pink capris with a pair of peep-toe platform pumps and a wrap-sweater. From the forefront of French fashion at La Redoute, these $30 pantalets can be paired with a beret and romantic piles of cashmere scarves pinned back with a fantastic brooch to brave the cold, and then lightened up with a thin print tee and some strappy sandals come May.
Cotton Twill Cropped Pants, $30, Laredoute.com.
ANTI-V-DAY TEE
Whether you love or hate the day itself, this bleeding heart tee can be worn year-round without looking out of place. Girly but with a touch of rocker sass, this $24 cap-sleeve number comes with black, red, or brown sleeves, and the design itself can be found on a number of items (including housewares!) at this boutique. Head on over to its parent store Cafepress.com where they have thousands – thousands! – of adorable Valentine’s Day-themed merchandise not designed by some faceless, huge corporation, where you’re apt to find designs with er, heart. Create a design yourself too, while you’re at it!
Bleeding Heart Cap-Sleeve Tee, $24.00, Cafepress.com.
LASER-CUT EARRINGS
The detail on these laser-cut doily earrings belie their $10 price tag. Oversized and girly, they look just as fab paired with a striped marine-inspired sweater for a weekend matinee as with a dark wrap dress for a night out on the town. They may look like those doilies you may remember from Granny’s house, but in a foxy red they’ve been updated for 2008, and dangling from your lobes are sure to sweeten up even the most bland outfit.
Red Doily Heart Earrings, $10, Fredflare.com.
EMBELLISHED BOOTS
This winter brought an update on the Uggs we love to hate: embellished versions with hand-painted motifs by a number of well-known celebrities that were auctioned off for charity. Even if you missed snagging a pair of these highly-coveted items, grab this $20 funky version that appeals to both those who love the Day of Love and those that can’t stand it. Updated with a gorge bronzey glow, the tattoo-like graphic on the backs sends this hard-edged mixed message and keeps your admirers guessing.
Love/Hate Boots, $20 (sale), Gojane.com.
SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: DESIGNER NECKLACE
Every Valentine’s Day, I admit: I Dream of Dolce. Dolce & Gabbana that is. Even if the S.O. plans not to splurge on jewelry this year, perhaps you can convince him to part with a mere $150 for this luxe designer pendant that’s both sweet and a little tart. With its high-polish silver front, sparkling stones, lever clasp, and leather cord, it’s not your average heart-shaped pendant, and adds a little cheekiness to what’s become a relatively boring motif at all those other jewelry stores. Pair with a fuzzy v-neck sweater and skinny jeans- or something frilly, red, and delectably see-thru! – and show him that it was most certainly worth his while to get your something designer and fabulous.
D&G Heart Pendant Necklace, $150, Eluxury.com.
If there are any high-priced pieces you’d like me to find similar, less costly versions of, please email me at carlyjcais AT riveted-clothing.com. ‘Til next week, fellow bargain-hunters!
– Carly J. Cais
Jan 21, 2008 | Life, Media
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer
As a designer – my line is
RIVETED Clothing & Accessories– I’ve developed an eye for style over the years…and right along with it, a nose for a bargain. Half the fun of fashion is looking fabulous without needing to declare bankruptcy. Each week, I showcase five hot designer-style steals (each for $100 or, in most cases, for much, much less)…along with one splurge-worthy item.
Now that it’s December, it’s the perfect time for over-the-top, sparkle-til-you-drop, fabulous glittery-embellished pieces. The stores are brimming with a bounty of jazzy jeweled items, so there’s no excuse not to frolick festively…whether you snatch up steals & deals or invest in well-priced quality items.
Here are the glittery goods you’ll want to add to your holiday must-haves:
LEOPARD PRINT DRESS Most holiday parties are dominated by black, silver, and red…boring, boring, and more b-o-r-i-n-g! Why not head out on the prowl in this fab silk (yes, silk!) frock from Forever21’s sister company, TwelvebyTwelve? Eyecatching sparklies peek out around the neckline, and it even comes with its own belt for days when you want to skip the hassle of accessorizing. Pair with killer stilettos, sweep a sparkling body powder on your collarbone, and prepare to be the cat’s meow at your next soiree. Jeweled Silk Minidress $60 – TwelveByTwelve.com.
EVENING PUMP WITH OOMPH A girl’s gotta have a shapely, super-hot heel to hotfoot it through the season in high style. Try something with a pattern or embellishment. (Love the fact that the stones on these kicks create a chic floral pattern rather than just being applied randomly with all the care of a Rorshach blob.) The sculptural 4″ heel makes legs look endless, and the side cut-out flashes a sexy swathe of skin. Peeking out from a under a frayed jean or paired with a poufy party dress, they’ll easily earn back their $70 pricetag in endless wearings & compliments. Stone-Bedazzled Satin Pump $70 (sale), Carabella.com.
BOLD HEADBAND When oversized jewel-encrusted headbands came down the Marc Jacobs Fall runway, fashion insiders literally ran to lay hands on them. More reasonably priced options have been popping up – like this chic metallic version that somehow manages to remain understated & elegant, while still delivering on the sparkly with the huge & attention-grabbing off-center jewel. At $12, be sure to stock up on both
colors which will compliment everything from your black cashmere turtleneck to that heinous holiday sweater you just know your relatives are expecting you to wear at holiday family gatherings (thank god you’re in good company with Colin Firth in Bridget Jones’s Diary). Jane Headband $12 each, ShopSueyBoutique.com.
EMBELLISHED LEGGINGS As the Year of the Legging, the endless parade of black-gray-brown is getting tired. If you really want to highlight those gams, slip on this allover-embellished pair. Keep the tunic & booties neutral, and turn up the sparkle in your accessories for a late-80s Madonna feel…the perfect antidote to dreary winter days. Embellished Leggings $14, Fashionjunkee.com.
SPARKLY CLUTCH Think “J. Crew” and probably what jumps to mind are casual staples. However, give the retail giant a closer look for unexpected finds like this glittery clutch – petite, yet roomy enough for the wallet-keys-cellphone-lipstick necessities. Almost like a soft-sided Judith Leiber, but at a much savvier $40 pricepoint! The problem? Choosing between gold, graphite & black. Twinkle Clutch $40 (sale), JCrew.com.
SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: FANCY CARDIGAN Whether it’s with a slim pencil skirt, luxe party dress, or your most chic jeans, this gorge embellished cardigan is the epitome of class. The cropped swingy shape & feminine sleeve are perfectly complemented by the four oversized buttons on the front and sparkles aplenty cascading down your shoulders. Since more is more, go all the way with some fab sparkly earrings and keep your myriad admirers drooling for more. LaRok Boho Cardigan $350, VibeTheBoutique.com.
If there are any high-priced pieces you’d like me to find similar, less-pricey versions of, please email me at *carlyjcais AT riveted-clothing.com*. ‘Til next week, fellow bargain-hunters!
– Carly J. Cais
