Bargain Chic

Classic Trends

March 28, 2008

I usually don't follow trends -- they are fleeting in the world of fashion and really don't emote true style, rather fly-by style, as I like to call it. Nevertheless, some trends can overcome their transient nature by latching onto traditional styles and shapes. The graphic print dress is one such trend. Alone, the bold, mod patterns are a bit kitschy, but paired with classic dress shapes (sheaths, wrap-dresses and halters) they definitely have chic staying power.

Designer Look

Belted Sheath Dress, Vera Wang, $430

Bargain Look

Printed Empire Waist Dress, Bisou Bisou, $49.99

Geometric Chiffon Dress, AB Studio, $29.50

Cutaway Silk Charmeuse Dress, Maggy London, $52.90

Question: What would you say is your favorite "classic trend" for this year's Spring/Summer season?

L'Homme Chic

March 15, 2008

Since starting this blog, a few people in my personal life frequent it, including a stylish work-friend. However, the other day after my work-friend congratulated me on my blog's one year anniversary, a male co-worker asked what the congratulation was referencing. I casually mentioned my fashion blog. A peppering of questions followed, along with my other male co-worker joining in on the conversation. I felt a little awkward -- I mean, I rarely talked to these guys about my fancy for fashion at bargain prices. Plus what do they care about fashion?

Despite my presumptions, they were interested and brought up the idea of doing a blog post on menswear. So, here I am, doing just that. Menswear is hard, though. I know what I like, but that doesn't mean most men would even dare wear it or "get it!" Plus, there is kind of a limiting style for men: shirt & pants. How can you really make that chic?

Nevertheless, here is my attempt at it. The main outfit is what I call the "insatiably sexy J.Crew look," with the cashmere vest the center-piece "splurge" item, followed by the rest of the look for much less!

And, here's a new twist for this year's blogs -- Every blog post will end with a questions for you, the reader, to offer an answer as you'd like. Question: What style does your man have? And, if you don't have a man, what style would you want your man to have?

Designer Look

Cotton-cashmere Argyle Vest, J.Crew, $65

Bargain Accouterments

Mossimo Washed Oxford Shirt, Target, $19.99

Levi's 514 Slim Straight Jeans, Khols, $29.99

Chaps Striped Tie, Khols, $18

Relic Leather Belt, Khols, $17.50

Total: $150.48 (plus, all of these pieces are basics and can be worn in numerous combinations!)

Happy One Year Anniversary!

March 9, 2008

Bargain Chic turns the big "1" this month! Wow, the year certainly went by fast. Lots of fashion, tons of shoes and so many great deals!

To celebrate, I thought I'd present to you my favorite bargain finds of the year and a few extra ones that I snatched-up myself. Here's to another year of tre' chic fashion at bargain prices. Yipppppeeee!

Bargain Outfits & Shoes