Jan 21, 2008 | 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.
Green is the new black, and thanks to the latest advances in technology, the phrase
all man-made materials no longer need terrify a fashionista.
Here are five fabulous faux leather picks that easily mimic the high-end luxe look of leather…sans guilty conscience:
WIDE BELT With all the oversized sweaters, flowing tunics, and slim pants dominating the fall silhouette, an attention-grabbing waist-cincher is key to not losing feminine appeal in amongst all that extra fabric. This fab leather belt fits the bill perfectly and has a tooled equestrian feel…and yet it’s a fashionably frugal find at $25. The center buckle adds some extra hardware and oomph to your ensemble, so pair with an extravagantly gorgeous party dress to really play up the contrast in textures. Leather-Look Satchel-Style Belt – Newport-News.com.
QUILTED BAG Every week seems to bring a new must-have it bag (find them at Bagsnob.com, which is already part of your daily reading, no?). While celebs can afford to have an infinite number of bags, for the rest of us, there is FashionJunkee.com. Specializing in good-looking lookalikes of the arm candy toted by Lindsay, Paris & Jessica, this lovely quilted number is actually affordable at just under $50. Try winter white as a chic contrast to all the black and gray of the season – or snap one up in eggplant (the celeb fave hue lately) to show off into the Spring months. Oversized Quilted Marc Jacobs Stam lookalike Handbag – FashionJunkee.com
PATENT-PIPED JACKET Short jackets with tie belts are all the rage this season, and this pea-jacket-meets-trenchcoat is picture perfect in a go-with-everything shade of charcoal. What really sets it apart? The affordable $70 pricetag, faux patent leather piping, and the fact that it somehow manages to be both preppy and refined at the same time. To highlight the shine on the piping, wear with some white slacks (and a white quilted bag, anyone?) or let a pleated mini-skirt just peep out from under its cropped hem. Pleather-trimmed Love Stitch South Side Jacket – LulusFashionLounge.com
FAKE-SKIN PLATFORM Love the 70s glam look but loathe the “skin” part? Then slip on this funky fake-snake platform from the limited-edition Patricia Field Collection for Payless (a steal at $40). Neutral enough to pair with your fave black pants or jeans, or effortlessly perfect with that hot mini, the metallic geometric design ups the glam quotient of whatever you’re wearing… and just (just) manages to tide a fashionista over until the Sex and the City movie finaly comes out. (*sigh*) Faux Snake Tempura Metallic sandal by Patricia Field for Payless – Payless.com
CUTOUT HALTER TOP From summer’s breezy tops into holiday’s bejeweled party frocks, the cutout-style halter-neck has been in the style spotlight. A well-priced ($25) option from Dereon, the styling at the neck is sweet, but the L.A. Ink style graphic says just the opposite, and the faux leather collar helps keep the vamp factor high (of course, throwing on some curvy patent leather heels in lipstick red & chanelling Kat Von D in some wouldn’t hurt, either). Dereon Moonlight Halter –
Macys.com.
SPLURGE OF THE WEEK Is it jewelry? Is it a belt? Keep them off-balance with this super-unique Bliss Lau piece that can be worn multiple ways. What looks like a snarl of oxidized chain and leather bits (real, this time) should theoretically do nothing for your style whatsoever…but it’s the strangest thing…upon donning this, the wearer instantly looks slimmer, more feminine, and bliss-fully alluring. Try draping from the down to the
hips over a slim-fitting turtleneck dress (however, for the jewelry vs. belt debate, you’re on your own). Tuxedo Vest Chain $228 – BlissLau.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
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Jan 21, 2008 | Media
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.
Chunky cable-knits, nautical-inspired styling, splashes of navy, white, and red…this year the maritime theme of Cruise/Resort 2008 is already trickling into winter’s ensembles (
thank you, Chanel)!
Say ahoy, climb aboard & coast ahead of the curve by mixing in these five picks that will have you ready to sail in no time:
SNUGGLY SWEATER-KNIT TOTE
There’s something so prim and proper about a structured leather tote…and so wonderfully free-spirited about knitted pompons. For just under $70, this striking Gerard Darel Dublinblush lookalike (famously sported by Angelina) serves up a generous helping of both. The ingenious cutout under the handles means it will actually fit on your shoulder without mashing up those lovely puff-sleeve jackets of the season. The truly frugal fashionista will want the purple one…on sale for $50! Mixed Stitch Sweater Tote $68 – UrbanOutfitters.com
FISHERMAN-STYLE CAP
Since all of Hollywood seems to be sporting gorge little caps lately, here’s a fun striped version that – in non-Hollywood fashion – is amazingly affordable. The little Civil War stud detail on the front makes it chic enough to be paired perfectly with a dark navy peacoat for a nautical chic look, while the adorable knitted stripes keep it girly and fun. When spring arrives, top off a breezy white dress, a cobalt turtleneck, black tights, tall boots, jaunty nubbly-knit cream scarf…the perfect ensemble for the long-awaited weekend. Knit Striped Fisherman’s Cap $26 – FredFlare.com
SHAWL-COLLAR SWEATER
The term shawl-collar sweater probably conjures up images of Granny in her rocker, however, this version is anything but. Chic, feminine, and stylish, the pique knit lends an airy, delicate quality, while the hardware adds a unique touch. Granny would definitely approve of how often you’ll wear it: paired with your fave black pants for an informal – but rockin’ – holiday party, over jeans for cozy casual weekends, or a mini-satin slip on those chilly nights when you’ve got someone else to help keep you warm. Women’s Toggle Shawl-Collar sweater $20 (plus only $5 shipping) – OldNavy.com
SAILOR PANT
Back in the day (the 90s), the classic wool 13-button marine pants – that were standard-issue to the U.S. Navy men from the 40’s up until the 80’s – were still available in army/navy surplus & thrift stores for around $1. (The machine-washable black wool twill ones of course, because the boiled wool kind is dry clean only.) Now that the trend is hot, these same pants go for $30-$45 (Vintagetrends.com) however, they are so good to a girl’s figure, they’re worth it. With a slim fit through the hips and a high waist, these fabulous pants transform junk in the trunk into luscious toned curves, and the buttons on the front visually slim even the curviest hips. (And then there’s the matter of the sexy corset-style lacing in the back…what was the US navy thinking when they designed these…for men?!) Give the pricey Tory Burch & Rachel Palley versions a miss, and snag these in white or navy for $45 at Bloomingdales.com.
ARM WARMERS
This season’s swingy, cropped-sleeve jackets were made for arm warmers, which are available in a wide range of pricepoints almost everywhere (I even found them at Wal-Mart). These have a nubby texture that provides a welcome contrast to the satins and sparkles of the holiday season, and at $8 a pair, it’s a fashion crime not to stock up on black, white & gray…even if fisherman’s cables don’t exactly float your boat. Cable-Knit Arm Warmers $8 – MyDivasCloset.com.
SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: FUNKY CASHMERE TEE
High on my wishlist is a membership in J. Crew’s Cashmere-of-the-Month Club. For $2000, a new luxury cashmere item arrives in the mail each month for an entire year. With the softness of the yarns and sophisticated stylishing, their new selection of high-quality cashmere will have many a discerning fashionista doing a double take. Choose from argyle cardigans, sweatercots, leggings, and scarves, but this fun & funky tee is arguably the best of the bunch, with slim, feminine stripes and a cheeky intarsia lifesaver graphic. Authentic Italian cashmere for under $150? A true holiday cash-miracle! Striped Cashmere Lifesaver Tee $138 – JCrew.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
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Jan 21, 2008 | Media
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.
Whether your New Year’s goals include being more fashionably fabulous or to spend less of your hard-earned cash doing so, now is the time to snag those versatile pieces that add extra oomph to your wardrobe. The best sales of the year are going on right now, and everything is marked down deliciously – like these five pieces that will bring you into spring fashionably clad:
PLAID PANTS
While they may look like Grandpa’s old trousers, don’t be fooled: the latest plaids for women are updated with feminine color combinations, smaller tartans, and metallic threads woven throughout. As part of the strong, ongoing menswear-gone-ladylike trend, this pattern has been hot all season, and now that it’s on sale, it’s the perfect time to stock up. Add a pair of skinny suspenders if you want to go all-out on the menswear theme, or go uber-chic with a pointy-toe heel…however, stay away from flip-flops unless you want to be mistaken for someone from That 70’s Show. At $10, you can get 5 pairs and still have enough left over to buy Grandpa something. Cuffed Plaid Trousers $10 (sale) – Walmart.com
WIDE-SLEEVE SWEATER
For every fashionista in the know, hot pink is the “it” color for Spring/Summer 2008. Get ahead of the trend with this kimono sleeve sweater. For now, layer over a long-sleeved top, and when it warms up, pair with a fluttery skirt or jeans and a strand of vintage beads. For a rocker-chic look, go for the hot pink & black stripe. Want a mod London street vibe? Go for black-and-white. Either way, it’s right on the on the money…for an incomparable $13! Striped Kabuki Sweater $13 (sale) – FashionBug.com
JUMPER DRESS
With fashion-forward pleating and a sexier shape from the ones you might remember from yesteryear, this adorable piece from Gap is stellar over a wintery turtleneck or under a fuzzy sweater. The 6-button detail and the gray denim give it a sailor vibe but the slight tulip-shaped skirt and pleated details keep it feminine without being overly frilly. The bonus? It can be worn on its own as a lightweight Spring dress come warmer months. Pleated Denim Shift $30 (sale) – Gap.com
CHARM HAIR ELASTICS
From high-end accessories designer Colette Malouf – who sells in Bergdorf Goodman – come these darling ponytail elastics in earthy, nature-inspired tones. The tiny, almost rebellious charms just peek out from under your coif, and dangle with your every move. With dragonflies, guns, and a lucky horseshoe in the mix, there’s something that will please anyone looking to glam up that tired old ponytail. Colette Malouf Charm Cluster Ponytail holder $16 (sale), Fengjunk.com
SWEET LITTLE SWEATER
What’s not to love about this romantic look from Victoria’s Secret? Puff sleeves, scoop neck with side-tie bow, sexy little shape – this sweater is both naughty and nice in an array of colors with delectable-sounding names like Sugar Pink, Chocolate, and Plum Passion. Layer it in a contrasting hue over a long-sleeved turtleneck for a January look, and then dust a little Urban Decay Marshmallow body glitter on your the decolletage come Valentine’s Day. Tie-neck Sweater $19 – VistoriasSecret.com
SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: SNEAKERS THAT MAKE YOU SKINNY
According to the clinical trials and an absurd amount of testing, these actually live up to promise: slimming your legs, tightening your thighs, tush-toning…all by just walking in them. They work by causing you to change your stride, and many people report that it feels like walking in sand. (Of course you can add them in to your workout routine routine if you want, but the fact is that after just doing some errands in them you will feel a marked difference in your lower body.) Since the results you’ll be seeing are fantastic, and better yet, amazingly effortless, these are worth every penny. What better way to start off the New Year than by dealing with that “lose 10 lbs” Resolution once and for all? mbt m.walk Anti-Cellulite Sn
eakers $245 – Blissworld.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
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Jan 21, 2008 | Media
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.
If, like many fashionistas, you’ve resolved to be more green in 2008, why not start with your style choices? These eco-friendly, fair trade fashion picks are easy on the earth and the wallet:
PROJECT GREEN BRACELET
Made from recycled tire rubber and aluminum, this fashionable unisex bracelet donates $10 from each one sold to a number of environmental groups including Global Green and the National Resources Defense Council. And priced at just under $30, it displays a conscience – for your karma & your bank account. By itself or worn with a tangle of charm bracelets, wood bangles, and a chic steel watch, you’ll enjoy wearing your heart on your wrist. Greenloop Project Green Bracelet $29 – TheGreenLoop.com
VINTAGE-STYLE BAND TEE
Designed by Sarah Worden of the indie band My Brightest Diamond, this super-soft American Apparel tee donates 100% of the cost are to Road Recovery, an organization that promotes a drug-free future for youth. Good deeds aside, it’s the vintage-rock style graphics that are this shirt’s selling point; the group of strange little birds at the hem just begs for a pair of banged-up denim pipestoves and a frayed handwoven scarf at the neck. My Brightest Diamond Tee $25 – YellowBirdProject.com
FEEL-GOOD, TRAVEL-FRIENDLY FROCK
Dubbed the Roll-Up Dress, this machine-washable cotton number does just that, meaning you can stash it in your suitcase for a well-deserved Spring Break or mid-winter getaway. As with any (Product) RED item, a hefty amount of the profits (in this case, 50%) go directly to the Global Fund to fight AIDS in Africa. Fashion-wise, this multitasker will look as chic over some dark skinny jeans and punchy ballet flats as with ankle-boots and a little swingy coat. (Product) RED Roll-Up Dress $68 – Gap.com
NON-PREACHY ECO-CHIC TOTE
If you’re just so over not being a plastic bag, then try this equally eco-friendly (but far less self-important messagey) tote. With the handles anchored by grommets and long enough to sling over the shoulder, and a handy inner pocket for keys and other necessities, it’s effortlessly easy to schlep a full load of groceries home without resorting to plastic bags (on your solar-powered bicycle, of course). Your purchase helps fund loans to women in developing countries so they can begin entrepreneurial businesses to help better their lives. Nest Eco Tote $26 – BuildANest.com
LUXURIOUS HANDWOVEN WRAP
These artisan-created pashmina/silk wraps come in gorge hand-dyed hues like Dream Blue and Pumpkin. They look just as fabulous slung over a worn denim jacket as gracing bare shoulders and evening dress. If you buy through The Hunger Site’s online shop they will donate 50 cups of food for the purchase; alternatively, purchase it at The Rainforest Site, The Breast Cancer Site, The Animal Rescue Site,The Child Health Site, or The Literacy Site for your purchase to give to those charities instead. And at just under $30, they are a luxe steal that also helps impart a change in the world. Lightweight Classic Pashmina $29.95 – TheHungerSite.com
SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: GIVE AND SHOP
Instead of posting the usual luxury item, I’ve chosen this website as my pick because it’s a fabulously easy way to give back while you shop. Simply choose your charity – options include Amnesty International, America’s Second Harvest, and The I Have a Dream Foundation – and then choose from a retailer from an extensive list which includes Amazon.com, eBags and 1800Flowers. And then proceed to shop ’til you drop – prices are identical as if you had gone directly to the e-tailer’s site, but in this case, a portion of your purchase goes directly to charity. GiveAndShop.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
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