Dec 4, 2008 | 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.
Upcoming festive gatherings with relatives, family, significant others, in-laws…what a fashion nightmare! Your perfect go-to ensembles for romantic dinners a deux don’t cut it when you’re dining with Aunt Leda, her gaggle of cousins, and the odd parent – so what’s a girl to wear? Fear not!
With these easy pieces, it’s easy to dress, impress, and look both classy and chic – all without spending a bundle:
Family-Friendly Fashion for Hols with the Fam by Fashiontribes
FLORAL TUNIC Since we’re saving the curve-highlighting sex kitten look for another occasion, try this flowy versatile tunic. The fun print rescues it from the clutches of baggy and boring, while well-placed accessories keep things chic. Wear as-is over textured tights and knee-high boots, or add some shape with a dark, low slung belt. Don’t forget a long chain necklace to pull it all together…just try to keep it from dangling in the gravy boat during dinner. Floral Tunic Dress $29 (sale) at Newport-News.com
RETRO BOOTIE Play off the slightly 60ish vibe of the tunic with these undeniably groovy booties. In mod maroon, the contrasting suede and crinkle patent really stand out – especially with an outfit in monochrome or muted hues. To channel Twiggy, pair with a white shift, black leggings & mini gloves, or go the Nicole Richie route in acid-wash zip-ankle denim, a tie-waist sweater, and piles of scarves. Any way you wear them, these little booties truly a festive statement make. Zoe Patent Button Boot $38 at Payless.com 
PLAID COAT Mixing two bold patterns and making both of them look chic is definitely not Fashion 101, but the subdued tones of this coat would work well even with the bright flowered print of the tunic. What makes this coat a catch are the epaulet details at the shoulders (fantastic!), the double-breasted front, and structured belt – all of which make it look far more expensive than it really is. Reaching to just above the knee, this little trench looks fab in all sorts of weather: belt without buttoning over a swingy dress, or on cold blustery days, turn up the collar up and add a dark bucket hat. On sale for $30 off, it is a fashionable steal – and mother-approved. Double-Breasted Plaid Coat $100 (sale) at Mandee.com
KNIT BANGLES Chunky knit bangles are everywhere this season, and available at every pricepoint, from Elizabeth Yarborough’s elegant version for $190, to the recycled cashmere pieces for $30 at BuildANest.com, to a serviceable garden-variety version from Claire’s for $10. Better yet: pick ’em up by the armload at Old Navy, where they come in a rainbow of eyecatching colors for a bargain-basement price of $5.50…for three! Stack on one arm over a tight-fitting turtleneck, peeking out from under the billowing sleeve of a dolman dress, or with any slinky, form-fitting looks. However, don’t pair them with a bulky sweater as that classifies as complete overkill. Set of 3 Sweater Bracelets, $5.50 (sale) OldNavy.com 
BOLD COCKTAIL RING If organic, inspiring forms are your thing, check out Twisted Silver’s elegantly twisted selection of button cocktail rings, mixed metal bag charms and chain-link earrings in a variety of metals. This 1″ ring evokes both flora and coffee bean in its undulating, symmetrical lines, while the raw brass imparts a modern feel. To highlight the bronze gleam, pair with warm neutrals, such as a deep-V cardigan in cream and a pair of brown cords. Life Ring $40 at TwisterSilver.com
SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: Slouchy Leather Bag Every once in awhile, you come across a bag that you know is going to be your go-to accessory of the season – like this chic Orly bag from the new Jewels by Julie Knapp line. The slouchy shape eliminates that oh-so-familiar digging around for something in the bottom, and the ruched leather hobo comes in coal black, wine, and rich brown to complement almost all outfits. We love the brass ring at the closure, complete with contrasting snakeskin inlay (animal skins are hot-hot-hot this year). Pair with a 70’s-flare jean and blousy drawstring tunic, a dark fedora and cropped blazer, or go for contrasts all in sleek black from head to toe. Orly hobo $200 (sale) at LeFashionista.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
(Gossip Girl photo at top: Giovanni Rufino/The CW ©2008 The CW Network)
Leave Comment
Nov 21, 2008 | Fashion, Media
How to Layer from Summer into Fall into Winter by
Fashiontribes
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.
You’ve just got your summer wardrobe all figured out when suddenly the seasons change, so quickly that even the most level-headed fashionista can be sent into a tailspin, wondering what to wear. While it’s not quite cold enough for winter proper, the temperature is still chilly enough to require a mad reshuffling of closet basics. The trick to getting the most mileage out of anything in your closet, even breezy, sheer summer items? Layer, layer, layer…but stay safely on this side of the Yeti/baglady line. Try any of these five picks which deliver major fashion mileage for the least amount of cash:
FEATHERED HEADBAND So Blair Waldorf-worthy with its Gossip Girl sensibility, this handmade satin-covered headband is a fabulous homage to plumage. The spray of feathers in either brown with cream rings or turquoise shot through with yellow is captivating and unique, and a lovely adornment for those both long- and short-tressed. But don’t let its Jazz-Age feel force you into pairing it solely with beaded flapper dresses (though it would look gorge even if you did) – play down its feminine sweetness by adding black leggings and a motorcycle jacket, or go all out in cashmere and chiffon for that hot date. Flapper Headband $38, ShopIntuition.com (be sure to take advantage of free shipping during the month of November).
SUEDED BOOTIE Booties are huge right now, and this pair is right on-trend, stylish (love the scrunch top and Victorian’esque covered buttons), and priced under $40. The 2.5″ stacked heel means you can walk comfortably in them, whether they’re Kate Moss chic with skinny denim and a tuxedo jacket with the sleeves rolled up, or paired with bold tights and a groovy ultra mini. Decree Princeton Short Scrunch Boot, AZjeans.com – priced at $35 (sale), why not snap up a pair in each color: black & wine?
WIDE LEATHER BELT From coats, to bulky sweaters, crisp shirts, dresses, trenches, and even evening gowns…it’s more of a question of what isn’t belted this season. To anchor an outfit, create a waspish waist, and balance out the length of a floor-skimming skirt, a wide belt is perfect; after dark, it delivers deliciously offbeat style over a bright wool swing coat or elegant chiffon frock. Labyrinth Leather Belt $48, UrbanOutfitters.com.
METAL CLUTCH Minaudiere, portmanteu, reticule, or box clutch – regardless of what you call it, a rose is a rose is a rose…and this multi-named multi-tasker easily elevates any outfit to glam status. Tiny and delicate, yet still large enough to fit all your essentials (credit cards, cash, keys, lipstick, mineral powder makeup, mints…), this gold oval clutch shouldn’t be limited only to evenings out. During the day, pair with ripped denim and a skinny scarf, or a long belted blazer and tone-on-tone leggings and shoes. Besides…going handbag-minimalist will completely differentiate you from the throng of gigantic, cumbersome carryalls – and make you look like you just stepped out of a chic, glamorous soiree to get some air. Bombon Handbag $69, MangoShop.com.
DEEP-V NECK SWEATER To disguise the face that you’re actually wearing a dress under everything, this slim-cut sweater is an essential. The deep V shows off a necessary amount of skin to balance the amount you’re covering up, while the patch pockets and ribbing draw the eye up, and the waist is cinched in by your fab wide belt. Short sleeves keep the piece from becoming too bulky, and paired over a turtleneck (we like this lightweight C & C California Coffee Turtleneck) with sleeves pushed up to the elbow for another show of skin, it’s picture perfect. Alternatively, wear it on its own over a pair of cream trousers, a tartan A-line skirt, or leggings and booties. Ribbed Cable Sweater Tunic $23, Forever21.com.
f=”http://fashiontribes.typepad.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/11/20/black_maxi_party_dress_silk.jpg”>
SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: Glam Dress Just because it’s a party dress doesn’t mean it needs to be relegated to the back of your closet, save for that occasional fete! This decadent silk maxi has flattering shirring in front and gathers at the waist, and is lightweight enough that it can be covered in several layers and not bulk you up, yet fluid enough that it maintains a sexy vibe. Dress it down during the day belted under a sweater, and back up for night, sans sweater, and with a jumble of chains & pearls (the messier the better) and a vintage fur shrug. Available in goes-with-everything black or dazzling Teal for $175, BananaRepublic.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
Leave Comment
Nov 12, 2008 | Fashion, Media
ShopRuche.com 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.
Finding must-haves that are both affordable and chic can be quite the challenge: often the selections are limited, the workmanship shoddy, the clothing is cut too small/’Tween/bootilicious for real women. For classy threads that don’t cost an arm and a leg, here are
some savvy shopping sites that are comprehensive, trustworthy, and off the beaten path…enough so that you won’t see your affordable treasure walking down the street on someone else with a similar nose for fashion finds:
SHOPRUCHE.com Nostalgic in feel but user-friendly, Ruche is a modern boutique with a vintage touch that offers a variety of handpicked girly pieces – tops, denim, bottoms, outerwear, shoes, bags, accessories, and jewelry (some of which are organic & vegan) – that look like they might have been unearthed in a quirky vintage store. Like their excellent customer service, their prices hearken back to better days: nothing is priced over $50, including outerwear, and with $7 flat shipping, it’s hard to resist…so don’t! Can’t-miss pieces include Swaying Bird Hoop Earrings (pictured) with tiny wire-wrapped beige pearls and peach beads surrounding a swiveling gold bird charm ($13), and the Roses Are Red Mod Dress ($37) with pleated front and gorgeous rose-pattern (wear over a dark turtleneck, add black tights and black maryjanes for a winter-fabulous outift). To save 10% on your entire purchase, at checkout enter CHICSTEALS – ShopRuche.com.
SHOPKNOWLABEL.com “True style and beauty cannot be bound by rules and labels,” explain the fashionistas at Know.Label., which is filled with such a well-edited range of labels, we have agree. Styles include tops, dresses, bottoms, denim, belts, outerwear, jewelry, and bags from artists and designers all over the world. Prices similarly run the gamut, with most dresses at around $50 or under, and many coats under $200. We’re obsessed with the Paulette Trench Coat in Khaki, ($96) (because we’re suckers for the voluminous drawstring collar, deep pleated pockets, and silky beige finish), and the Wide Leg Sailor Jeans ($42) with crisp front pintucking and dark rinse, and looks killer paired with some sky-high basketweave wedges and an oversized rib-knit cardi – ShopKnowLabel.com.
GOLDENSTATECLOTHING.com For California cool, Golden State Clothing features a Cali-friendly selection of boho, office chic, and everything else needed to rock Left Coast Casual-Sophisticate. Outerwear, tops, bottoms, sweaters, and dresses are priced between $30-$120, with a variety of budget-friendly pieces to choose from. Additionally, the company is committed to utilizing sustainable materials, ethical manufacturing, social responsibility, and energy neutrality. Pieces from in the Charity Items section donate 100% of the price to Algalita, Earth911, Tree People and other environmentally-responsible charities. Recommended: Cavalry Vest ($50) is fabu military-chic with its bronze buttons and cropped length, and Cable Mini Sweater Dress ($60, pictured) with the open shoulder and buckle detail goes wonderfully paired with a long layered necklace and slouchy boots. To get 10% off your order, be sure to sign up for their email list – GoldenStateClothing.com.
EDGEofURGE.com What began as a brick-and-mortar store in North Carolina has since developed into an online mainstay of indie designers – both established and up-and-coming. Edge of Urge has both men’s and women’s clothing, as well as shoes, accessories, housewares, and stationary – all with a non-box-store, homespun feel. Prices range from around $20 for a tee, to $250 for the most detailed, unique jacket ever, while a pair of fabulous leather boots can run around $350 (but they’re oh so fine!). Handmade, limited quantity pieces are more pricey, but you’ll agree they’re worth every penny when people stop you on the street to find out what you’re wearing. Fave picks: the Dani Boot with its hidden wedge-heel that makes you 3″ taller in rustic pebble-grain leather ($164, pictured), and Biltmore Top ($66), with kitschy white bib and red buttons – perfect with a high-waisted pencil skirt for that naughty secretary in all of us – EdgeOfUrge.com.
ACCESSORYBUG.com For such affordable prices, Accessory Bug offers surprisingly stylish, expensive-looking bags, as well as lots of vegan/faux leather options. Thanks to exquisite stitching and and attention to detail (both inside and out), they easily withstand scrutiny and hold their own against pricey designer versions…a bonus for anyone craving the as-seen-on look without the cost. Our picks: the Red Alexandra Slim Short Wallet ($20, pictured) with its covered closure (carry with cream tailored pants and a striped sweater), and the Black Large Vicky Leopard Print Satchel ($46), because every woman deserves a leopard-accessorized walk on the wild side – AccessoryBug.com.
COOL FIND OF THE WEEK: SHOPPINGNOTES.com For all online shopaholics, ShoppingNotes.com is a brand-new site that keeps all your links organized. Set a price alert on whatever you are shopping for, and then copy/paste the URL of the product you want into the text box on the ShoppingNotes page; when the item’s price is lowered or it goes on sale, they let you know! You can set price alerts on almost anything that catches your eye, and every link is automatically saved with an image and description so you’ll have no problem keeping track of the hundreds (and hundreds) of must-haves on your list. Now that’s what we call cheap e-shopping savvy.
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
Leave Comment
Nov 7, 2008 | Media
The supermodel and Topshop designer tells Life & Style how anyone can look amazing.
- 1. Fail-safe party item: a little black dress.
- The hot look of over-the-knee boots and a miniskirt is fine with bare legs if you’re in your teens, 20s or 30s. Anyone older should add opaque black tights.
- Don’t be afraid to alter vintage outfits. When I was 17, I found a panther-motif black dress at a New York flea market. Recently, I chopped off the bottom and used it as inspiration for the mini dress version in my Topshop line.
- A new hairstyle can transform your look. Be brave! Try a new hairstyle. It can inspire a new way of looking at your existing wardrobe.
- Make the most of your figure. If you have great legs, show them off with a short dress and heels or a fab pair of jeans. Wear what suits you rather than following trends. Create your own style!
- Never look like you tried too hard! Mismatching adds a personal touch
- Don’t do the catwalk look head to toe. Mix old with new and designers with high street. I wore a Chanel maxidress to my friend’s wedding with a 1930s blue velvet cape and huge Turkish hoop earrings, which gave the dress a totally different feel.
- Handbag essentials for hitting the town: keys, cash, black eyeliner
- Best jewelry for a night out: antique diamonds
- For evening, try unexpected outerwear-dress combos. Don’t be afraid to wear a battered leather jacket with a full-length gown or an extravagant, embroidered jacket with jeans and a T-shirt.
-courtesy of Life & Style Weekly
Leave Comment
Oct 7, 2008 | 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 Chic Steals normally focuses on getting the designer look at a fraction of the cost…how about actually owning the look itself for a fraction of the cost? We’re talking a fab Valentino frock for 70% off, a DecadesTwo bag for 10% of its retail price…and a Fendi
it bag for free! Welcome to the wonderful world of members-only shopping sites, where you can score luscious giveaways and designer brands – current season, last season, future seasons, sold-only-outside-of-the-U.S. – for huge discounts of up to 60% and more off. How is this possible? These companies buy overstocked merchandise directly from the designers themselves and then sell at liquidated prices online, passing the savings onto you. And unlike visiting a store in person, there’s no digging through racks of strange sizes, damaged goods, and brand-name rejects from one of last year’s fads.
While most of the reputable members-only shopping sites require an invite from a current member, we’ve got you – our lovely Fashiontribes Chic Steals readers – covered: 
GILT GROUPE Launched in 2007 by the entrepreneurial female duo Alexis Maybank and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, Gilt Groupe hosts the type of luxury sample sales that were once accessible only to New Yorkers in the know. Score up to 70% off hand-selected women’s, men’s, and children’s luxury goodies from brands like Valentino, Tibi, John Varvatos, Helmut Lang, Hollywould, Philip Crangi, Jill Stuart, and Rogan. Each sale lasts only 36 hours on a strictly first-come, first-served basis, but since many brands are often on sale at the same time, even the pickiest shopper is bound to find something fab. Be sure to click on the Behind the Scenes tab for fit charts, to find out about upcoming sales, exclusive fashion show coverage, model & designer interviews, happening parties, and Gilt Groupe photo shoots. Upcoming sales: Emily & Ashley Jewelry, Vivienne Tam, Vera Wang Lavender Label, Felix Rey, and Elizabeth Showers Jewelry. Rush in to access M Missoni RTW & Accessories, beginning today, Tuesday Oct. 7. For access, go to: www.Gilt.com/fashiontribes.
IDEELI As the first invitation-only e-shopping site in the U.S., Ideeli specializes in up to 90% off haute accessories, bags, sunglasses and jewelry from their more than 100 luxury and lifestyle partner brands, including Oscar de la Renta, Celine, Christian Lacroix, Sonia Rykiel, Botkier, and Zac Posen. In addition to must-haves (a Chloe Paddington, anyone?), they often have items not yet available in store, fab finds from abroad, and drool-inducing giveaways like a $1700 Balenciaga popcorn bag. They’ve also created on online community of members, offering access to lifestyle experiences like tickets to fashion shows and charitable galas, and VIP seating at sold-out concerts. Starting today, October 7, look for the giveaway tix to the Lucky Shops VIP event in NYC. Future sales: include M2 designs and Malin & Goetz. Use CHICSTEALS as your exclusive invitation code at ideeli.com, and don’t forget to sign up for both the lifestyle giveaways that can begin at any moment, as well as reminders to know the instant something amazing goes on sale.
RUE LA LA A $725 python leather Kooba tote marked down to $295? Check. $325 Cole Haan leopard-print slingbacks for only $128? Fab. A $2195 silk Michael Kors coat for a mere $495? Uber-steal. At RueLaLa.com, ooh la la happens every day thanks to amazing markdowns on coveted brands not only on women’s clothing, jewelry, and accessories, but also men’s, children’s, and homewares. Featuring items from lines such as Helmut Lang, UGG, John Hardy, Rich & Skinny Denim, and Via Spiga, each sale occurs only a few at a time and is only available for only 48-72 hours – and many boutiques sell out completely within the first few hours. Upcoming boutiques: Kay Unger, Magaschoni, Henckels Cutlery, and Victorinox men’s, luggage, and jewelry. For access, go to RueLaLa.com, click on “Invited by a Member” and then enter the code VIP@ruelala.com. (And don’t forget to choose text or email reminders for upcoming sales!)
REGENT’S SECRET Online since January 2008, Regent’s Secret is the newest gal on the block in the world of members-only shopping sites. With its underground feel and youthf
ul urban-style merchandise discounted up to 70% off, it’s a fashion-forward destination for fans of Ed Hardy, LOVE Yaya, Trunk Ltd, Missoni, Evisu, and Dolce & Gabbana. Usually offering numerous sales at once (but for a limited-time only), and with a number of pieces available from each brand, you’re sure to find something you love that’s amazingly affordable (many items are marked down to around $100 or less). Get that young Hollywood look with wide-leg jeans from Chip + Pepper, a pair of oversized Just Cavalli Sunglasses, a sweatshirt from Faith Connexion, and a pair of A.B.S. Allen Schwartz platform pumps. Sales coming soon: Kastle Jeans, Linea Pelle Collection, and Etro. Look for Bulgari jewelry which ends Oct 9. To register for Regent’s Secret, CLICK HERE.
And, if you’re simply looking for an online shopping site that anyone can join, try HauteLook.com, which features 12-48 online sales of brand-name items, direct from the manufacturers. (We recently spotted Collette Malouf hair accessories, Maya Brenner jewelry, Sweetface dresses, and Nicole Miller separates on sale for 60% off.)
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
(fashion illustrations at top & right – Arturo Elena)
Leave Comment
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
Leave Comment
