Jan 19, 2009 | Media
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer & ChicSteals blog
As a designer, I’ve developed an eye for style over the years along with 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.
If the wild, wintery winds of January are making you want to blow off to warmer climes, you’re in luck – fashionably-speaking! The Resort ’09 Collections were brimming with bold, ocean-inspired hues, colorblocking, and fun, tropical prints. And as you dream of escaping to balmy skies and lounging on the beach, remember: the last burden you need schlep is too much luggage.
To pack the ultimate versatility into your excursion, try these five picks for frugal, fabulous resort wear:
SHINY SANDALS Always pack two pairs of sandals: one ratty pair for the beach, and one fabulous pair to wear everywhere else. At $20, this shimmery embellished wedge is as affordable as it is chic (plus it’s vegan – score!) paired with everything from an animal-print caftan, city shorts & a safari-style tee, or with a black silk slipdress that clings in all the right places. Coordinating chandelier earrings and poolside Mai Tai optional…but highly recommended. Regan Sandal $20 at Payless.com. 
BREEZY TUNIC Since packing light means versatility, a billowy, graphic blue & white tunic promises to be just as at home in jungles urban or tropical. The pintucks create a semi-fitted shape that looks fab tucked into some cigarette pants, or paired with a matching jacket for that laid-back office vibe. But cinch with a braided gold belt and pair over some super-short shorts, and the look is all apres-beach and pre-dinner cruise. City-Style Tunic $26 at NYandCompany.com.
SEXY EARRINGS Whether you acquired your tan on the beach or from a bottle, a color like aqua is one of the best ways to show it off – especially if you’re rocking texturized, sun-streaked hair. The understated length of these dangly cerulean earrings pops against your jawline, looking beachy-chic whether you’re actually on vacation…or merely planning it in a white buttondown and a black (or brown) suit. Turquoise Stone Earrings $20 at AVMaxAccessories.com.
TEENY WEENY BIKINI Coming in at #8 on Nina Garcia’s list of the Top 100 pieces no stylish woman is without (pg. 25 of The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own),
a bikini is what you’ll want to wear under everything on vacation (who needs bras and panties anyway??). In white with a sweet dot-print, this Tiki set offers adjustable coverage in front, and Brazilian coverage in the back. Sexy underneath a sheer caftan; sultry peeking out from under that tight minidress. Kon Tiki Tiki Tri Bikini Top & Bottom ($64 for the set) at Roxy.com.
SAFARI SKIRT Safari resonated throughout the spring resort collections, and we particularly love the bold splash of color at the hem of this chic skirt. Pair with a simple white tee and espadrilles while chilaxing; with a dark blazer when you’re back in the office. Or, for full-on 2009 safari style, go the Sarah Jessica Parker route in Sex & the City with a sheer top and a belted vest. Still long to be on vacation? Be sure to also pick up the alternate color, in a lovely aqua with a deep lagoon stripe at the bottom. Pleated Skirt $73 at Tulle4us.com (one of our fave sources of casual chic threads for work and play).
*Splurge of the Week: FUN FLORAL FROCK A highly important part of a stress-free holiday is heading straight from the pool or beach to swanky cocktails without any annoying obstacles to getting your drink on…such as getting nailed for “improper” attire. Toss this slightly retro frock on over your swimsuit, tuck an exotic flower behind your ear, and be prepared to tango past the velvet rope and straight onto the dance floor. Les Jardin print dress $165 at eDressMe.com. 
If there a
re any high-priced pieces you’d like me to find similar, less costly versions of, please email me at carlyjcais AT fashiontribes DOT com.
– Carly J. Cais
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Jan 6, 2009 | Fashion, Media
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer & ChicSteals blog
As a designer, I’ve developed an eye for style over the years along with 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.
Now that it’s a new year, it’s time to put those Resolutions to the test & improve physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually…and, while you’re at it, fashionably.
Here are our 5 Fashion Resolutions for 2009:
RESOLUTION #1:
DITCH TREND ITEMS THAT ARE SO OVER ALREADY
Spring 2009 Brights by Fashiontribes
It’s painful, but bite the bullet and stash all those items guaranteed to make you cringe in the not-too-distant future: yes, we mean the Uggs, celeb-inspired Love Quotes scarves, and matching velour tracksuits. Ditto busy prints that are not geometric, bold, floral or adorned with butterflies (not stars, though: so 2008). The Spring 2009 fashion forecast calls for color, so put away the grays and give all that black in your closet some oomph with cheery brights. To get back on trend, try one-shouldered outfits, rompers, sheer tops, art-inspired prints, and bejeweled items, as well as 80’s-inspired pieces. Here are some of our picks:
RESOLUTION # 2:
LOOK FAB EVEN ON OFF-DAYS
Get the Look: Gossip Girl’s Blake Lively by Fashiontribes
If you’re feeling under-the-weather or just fashion-challenged, there’s nothing guaranteed to make you feel even more frumpy like a pair of baggy sweats and stained tee. For little or no more effort, you can pull on a casual go-to outfit that’s comfy, chic, and guaranteed to lighten your mood. (Yes, fashion can be both uplifting & inspirational…when you know you look great, that confidence shines from within.) An easy way to pull together some looks you like is by combing through magazines, blogs (like this one!) and even TV shows…professional stylists have already done the hard work of coming up with the looks; all you have to do is replicate them in your own closet. Alternatively, take inspiration from a celeb who has a similar body type and coloring whose style you like; if she looks chic and pulled together, so will you. We personally adore Gossip Girl Blake Lively, who was recently named one of Marie Claire’s Best Dressed of 2008. Here’s what you’ll need to steal her style:
RESOLUTION #3:
PARE DOWN & ORGANIZE THE CLOSET
If your closet isn’t bursting at the seams with unworn party dresses, belts still with their tags on, and way too many pairs of shoes with unscuffed soles – we salute you! For the rest of us, there are just too many options stuffed into the closet, and as a result, a confusing mess. For 2009, we’re planning to donate more and keep less…and then actually wear it. Anything that’s obviously stained, way too small, or somehow never got altered automatically gets purged. And if it hasn’t been worn it in a year, buh-bye! Of the stuff that’s left, why not recruit a girlfriend help you find new ways to create some fresh new outfits? Once we’ve pulled together some fabulous, on-trend outfits, we’re going to snap photos and create our very own lookbook; extra work to be sure, but guaranteed to pay dividends on those OMG-I-have-nothing-to-wear days.
RESOLUTION #4:
STEP OUT OF YOUR FASHION COMFORT ZONE pan>
Agyness Deyn Style by Fashiontribes
Day after day, most of us reach for the same handful of items. But much of the fun of fashion is about taking a risk, pulling off the unexpected, and being open to trying new things. Even if you’re not feeling Agyness Deyn-level bold enough to rock a taffeta ballroom skirt with a stonewashed denim jacket and spiked hair, why not try at least one thing you normally wouldn’t? You may be pleasantly surprised. Love day-glo but don’t own a single neon item? Instead of a dress, try a scarf. If you’re more rock ‘n roll than preppy, a slouchy striped tee under a blazer is a fab way to meld the two. Trying something new will also help you get additional mileage out of your closet by formulating more go-to outfits than you would have ever thought of while lounging in the safety of that comfort zone.
RESOLUTION #5:
WHATEVER THE OCCASION – OVERDRESS!
We’ve become a nation of fashion slobs by Fashiontribes
People used to dress up. A mere half century ago, even housewives who spent all day cooking and cleaning at home did so decked out to the nines in tight-fitting, crisp hourglass dresses, crinolines, and frilly aprons. Granted, we’re not asking you to don petticoats while dusting or other restrictive garments completely inappropriate to the situation, but the time has come to fight back against the widespread Slide into Slobdom. Since there’s nothing sadder than a closet full of gorgeous stuff hanging unworn, even if you don’t have a fancy function to attend, make up your own and dress the part! Break out those shoes you love and that dress you adore from the back of your closet – even for a short trip to get coffee – just because! As long as you’re chic & pulled-together, you’ll garner stares, extra attention (at worst, they might whisper: “Isn’t she just a little overdressed for Starbucks?” To which we say Pfft!), but more likely you’ll be that woman of mystery who has everyone dying to know what fabulous after-hours fete you’re just now arriving home from.
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
(photos: Blake Lively – evilbeetgossip.film.com; Agyness Deyn in blue ballgown – vogue.de; 50s housewife – Roman Holiday; Pamela Anderson – The Fashionable Housewife)
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Dec 25, 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.
Since all year we focus on getting that look for less, at least once an annum we indulge in dreaming of getting that look…for, well – gasp! – retail. And the holidays are the perfect time to indulge in sparkly dresses, sleek clutches, and feminine toppers.Inspired by our fave celebs and fabulous fashionistas, here’s our fantasy a-girl-can-dream wish list of five fashionable items for the perfect holiday look, plus a festive splurge:
LIQUID LEGGINGS From Mischa Barton to Kate Bosworth to Lauren Conrad, the ruched Black Rats by Sass & Bide have become a favorite Hollywood way of showing off their gym-toned gams. The subtle wet-look sheen updates the quintessential legging, making it modern and sleek whether paired with a tunic, oversize tee, or black drapey top and black blazer for an Olson-sister-inspired look. Sass & Bide Black Rats leggings $180 at Net-a-Porter.com.
(Chic Steal: The $21 ING Faux Leather Legging from Macys.com)
BROOCH-DETAIL PUMPS Show off your fabulous legs (or leggings) in perfectly pointy and tres Audrey Hepburn-esque pumps. The 3″ heel is the perfect counterpoint to the retro-chic brooch at the front, and Audrey would have no doubt appreciated the iconic red sole, courtesy of Monsieur Louboutin. (To get the look for a tad less, pick up a pair of affordable satin pumps like the Abaete for Payless Zoey ribbon-weave pump and add a shoe-clip or a vintage-style brooch – Sorrelli makes an eyecatching crystal-cluster pin.)
We love this look for evening or everyday glam with a pair of skinny jeans or with a pair of bold cobalt Hue tights. Christian Louboutin Satin Brooch Pump $865 at FootCandyShoes.com. (Chic Shoe Steal: Satin Rosette Peep-Toe Heel $23 from GoJane.com)
SEQUINED DRESS You heard it here first: sequins are a huge trend for celebs & the rest of us for 2009, especially sequin shift dresses. The sweet design and shrunken shape are just perfect for a holiday fete…even if you leave the bow at home for fear of looking like a human Xmas package. Perfect with slightly sheer dark tights, bare legs (if you dare), or even under a military-style jacket and jeans for day (trust us – it really works!). L’Ecole Des Femmes Sequin Bow Dress $218 (sale) at ASOS.com. (Chic Steal: Sequin Minidress $40 at Forever21.com)
CHEERY TRENCH Make like Jessica Simpson and inspire a bit of Holiday spirit in a festive bright red trench. The tailoring and shape create a feminine silhouette, and the fact it’s from Fendi means it will keep you in chic style for a long while. Pair with slim-cut drapey pants in a contrasting white, or try a coordinating print dress and oversized earrings. Fendi Cotton Twill Trench $1850 at eLuxury.com. (Chic Steal: Animal-Lined Trench Coat $90 from Spiegel.com)
EDGY CLUTCH Birds of a fashion feather – like Rachel Bilson – know that a fabulous, custom-made clutch in is just the thing to cure the holiday blues. This retro redux number by Antoinette Lee – fans include Gwyneth Paltrow and Heidi Montag – is the perfect size for carrying all your essentials plus necessary extras, and it features a detachable cuff that’s like a separate piece of jewelry all by itself (not to mention built-in security). Whether paired with a tee tunic and leggings or a short frilly frock, when cuffed on, you will literally be a slave to your fabulous purse. Lua Chain Clutch $271 from StarsandInfiniteDarkness.com. (Chic Steal: purple faux leather (vegan!) Julie clutch $33 at Amazon.com)
STEAL OF THE WEEK: PAVE MOON NECKLACE The best things really do come in small packages, and sometimes even with a small pricetag. This $40 crescent moon pave necklace in a rhodium finish looks luxurious and fabulous – a la Jennifer Aniston. Ultra-thin, ultra-light, and ultra-affordable, the 1.5″ sparkle at your throat would look equally chic with a celeb-worthy LBD, or even at the collar of a cozy pointelle-knit cardigan. Crescent Moon Necklace $40 from PortiaJewelry.com.
And our ultra-steal of the week that costs nothing to wish for? World peace, of course, and Goodwill to all! Happy Holidays from all of us here at ChicSteals and Fashiontribes.com – and may 2009 be an even more wonderful year for all of you.
– Carly J. Cais
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Dec 16, 2008 | Media
Carly’s Chic Steals & Fashion Deals of the Week: Winter White by
carlyjcais
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.
When the dark days of winter descend, the tendancy is pile on equally dark colors. Instead, why not bring a little cheeriness to all that dreariness in shades of tone-on-tone white, bone, cream, ice, dove, ecru, eggshell, and ivory.
Here are our five picks for a fabulous White Winter – and all affordable enough to indulge in some guilt-free holiday treats for yourself:
SPARKLY CARDIGAN Although it’s the season to sparkle, a little shine goes a long way; here, a sprinkle of bling at the shoulder makes this one different than most embellished cardis (which typically focus on the hem or the neck), as well as fabric-covered buttons which are a nice touch given the $25 pricetag. The V-neck is perfect for showing off sexy collarbones and framing a vintage necklace with a jumble of charms, while feminine 3/4 sleeves flatter anyone from a petite to a plus-size. Dress it up with a floor-length satin full-skirt or toss over dark-rinse bootcuts and contrasting cami for a day downtown picking up presents for everyone on your list. Limited-Edition Beaded Cardigan $25 at Target.com.
80s SUEDE BOOTIE Girls just wanna have fun in these slouchy boots…after all, who didn’t want to be Helent Hunt in her fabulous reversible Catholic school uniform or SJP in her crazy hot-pink leggings with her fabulous cartwheels and flips? The foldover design and tab detail at the back makes the silhouette different depending on whether you’re coming or going – which is easy in the moderately high heel. Soft, buttery suede and a goes-with-everything hue means you’ll have no trouble pairing them with light gray, chocolate brown, or black – be it your fave jeans, a ripped mini, or a pleated tartan skirt. Wanna have more fun-fun-fun? Try some festive pink leggings! Lesedi Boots, $59.98 (sale), MySpringShoes.com.
DELICATE NECKLACE Much the way a bird feathers her nest, this sweet pendant was fashioned out of scraps of white crochet that the designer just happened to have lying around. Three freshwater pearl “eggs” nicely balance the polish of the densely-woven silver wire nest, creating a dainty accent peeking out from the open collar of a thick-knit cardy, or over a thin a thin gray camisole and loose drawstring pants, decorating your decollete over while you’re just lounging around. Choose your number of pearls, type of wire, and length of necklace for a piece that’s made-to-order and one-of-a-kind…kind of like you. Sparrow’s Nest necklace $56 at Etsy.com.
FABULOUS, FLOWY SLACKS Whether for work or play, every woman needs a perfect pair of go-to pants. These flattering, slightly-flared trousers would look equally chic paired with a dark blazer for work or matched with a loose silk top for an elegant evening out. We love the unique tonal silken stripe at the waist, and the fact that they look equally good with platform wedges or a delicate strappy sandal. And yes, they’re lined, so no need to worry about any unsightly show-through. These will definitely get you through a whole holiday season worth of soirees and fetes, and become one of the backbones of your well-rounded closet. Legacy Tux Pant $98 – available in sizes ranging from 00-14 – at WhiteHouseBlackMarket.com.
I’M NOT A FASHION DRONE ECO-TOTE So many eco totes being toted around, so little individuality. Why not try a personalized piece, with retro-fab tiny tot silhouettes and your own name printed on the front? In black with silver or navy with gold options as well, you can add your own name and the name of a loved one. Or, for $30 less, opt for no personalization at all and still walk away with a coolly minimalist piece. Boy Meets Girl Cotton Tote (with personalization) $48 at RavinStyle.com.
SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: FANCY PRINCESS COAT As seen on celeb after celeb, the coat of the season is high-waisted with a princess-style A-line cut. And for good reason: it’s incredibly versatile. Fold up the collar for a Mata Hari-inspired woman-of-mystery vibe, envelope the top half in swathes of cashmere wraps, or belt and wear tailored and practical over a sharp suit…the possibilities are endless. Available in a staggering array of sizes (petite AND regular, 0-14), colors (winter white, pearl pink, dove, raspberry, teal, black, red, camel, charcoal, pine, and purple), patterns (solid, tartan, or herringbone), and fabrics (solid wool AND slubbed twill), so you’re sure to find one you love. For a quality winter coat in a timeless, trendproof shape, $130 is both affordable and a great investment. Double-Breated A-Line Coat $129 at VictoriasSecret.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 fashiontribes DOT com. ‘Til next week, fellow bargain-hunters!
Carly J. Cais
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Dec 13, 2008 | Media
If you’re searching for a great stocking stuffer this holiday, be sure to pick up a copy of Fabulous Fakes. It’s filled with sumptuous photos of vintage jewelry and their story throughout the ages, starting with mass-produced Victorian jewelry, moving through the wonderfully sophisticated lines of art deco geometrics, and parking at the doorstep of 1990s designer and artisanal jewelry.
And if you have more in your budget for gifts (like a lot, lot more) check out the newest additions to the TrueFaux.com site, which include a stunning Selro set as well as a beautiful Schiaparelli necklace, and their easy-to-wear chicklet necklaces. We’ll just stick with the book, thanks.
(above, vintage wedding brooch $1200, Indigo Chicklet necklace, $500)
-Carly J. Cais
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Dec 12, 2008 | Fashion, Media
Piperlime Guest Editor and Celebrity Stylist, Rachel Zoe, helps you open up your shoe closet (and your hearts) and shares her tips on what trends to buy, store and most importantly, donate this holiday season.
BUY (“One of the best parts of getting rid of old shoes is replacing them with new ones”, Zoe says)
**Pumps – “Black, nude, silver or gold. They go with everything. And always, always have a platform.”
**Tall Boots – “Go for black or brown. If you’re not into brown, grey is a good option.”
KEEP (“Hold onto the classics. Just when you think something is gone, designers will send it down the runway.”)
**Cowboy boots – “They come and go. A classic will show its face again.”
**Square toes – “If it’s iconic, like a square toe, keep it. Who knows? It could be back in a year.”
DONATE (“It feels so good to donate. Something you don’t want could make someone else’s day.”)
**Anything bedazzled – “Don’t toss it. THROW IT!”
**If it screams last season – “Get rid of super-super trendy.”
**What you don’t wear – “If you’ve never worn it, get rid of it.”
**Shoes that don’t fit – “You’ve got to move on. Let go.”
Have shoes to give? Piperlime has joined efforts with Soles4Souls this holiday season to impact as many lives as possible with the gift of shoes this holiday season. Simply go to www.piperlime.com for instructions on how to donate your used or gently-worn shoes to Soles4Souls and receive a $15 gift certificate.
-Carly J. Cais
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