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 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)
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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.
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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
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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
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