Bargain Chic

Short Skirt/Long Jacket

August 22, 2009

So, I've noticed that the short skirt and long jacket look is a trend that has been making the fashion waves this year, and I suspect it will continue to morph into more styles in the upcoming seasons. What I love about this trend is that it perfectly illuminates the meaning of Cake's song "Short Skirt/Long Jacket" -- the sexiness of juxtaposing two extremes. What is more alluring than revealing some skin, while keep the rest hidden? That is exactly what the look does, plus adds a bit of rock n' roll edge. I think it is a great look for going out and painting the town red -- and maybe kickin' it in your white Chrysler LeBaron.

Here's the look, with some selection of short skirts and studded heels and a flat.

Long Boyfriend Jacket, Express, $79.50

Striped Crinkle Mini Skirt, bebe, $59; Organza Tiered Skirt, Twelve by Twelve, $22; Tara Jarmon Mini Skirt, Yoox, $39

Jessica Simpson Laverna, $79; Chinese Laundry Makers, $60; Naughty Monkey Close Encounter, $59.99. All Piperlime.

Mad About Mad Men

August 8, 2009

I've caught the Mad Men bug. I started watching the AMC show last year and was sufficiently hooked. I am totally appalled by the sleazy and misogynistic world of the early 1960s, yet thoroughly enthralled by the incessant smoking, cheating and disregard for political correctness. And of course, the clothes! The clothes are what make the show authentic, and I love the well-fitted and figure enhancing styles that were popular then. I also appreciate that women back then took the time to care what they looked like. Yes, wearing a dress with heels and pearls while making dinner seems ridiculous to most modern women of the 21st century, but just the idea that they put thought into what they wore is refreshing. Don't get me wrong, though. I am a t-shirt and jeans kind of girl, especially when I am not at the office, but when I have to dress up, I do it with intention and sophistication.

I'm not alone in finding inspiration in this show. It seems the Mad Men look has found its way onto quite a few runways and stores. Michael Kors (one of my favorite designers) had a whole Fall line (in 2008) themed after the show, and now Banana Republic has partnered with the show in creating a line for their store as well as promotional tie-ins for sales and such. In fact, I just picked up a few pieces from Banana Republic this weekend -- an adorable Betty Draper inspired full-skirted dress and a Joan Holloway sultry pencil skirt and clingy top. (All that is missing are the curves!)

In addition, I found some other great looks around the Web. And of course, as Bargain Chic always does, I'll start with my inspirational "Designer Look" and then my bargain find.

Designer Look

Jason Wu Beaded Sheath Dress, $2300, Leather Belt, $460, Bergdorf & Goodman

Jimmy Choo Patent Platform Pump, Bergdorf Goodman, $750

Bargain Look

Shabby Apple Evita Dress, $114; BB Dakota Grey Lola Dress, chickdowntown.com, $79; Liz Claiborne Cotton Ikat Dress, $49.99

Lake Paid-cid Top, $34.99; Peggy Pencil Skirt, $69.99; both Mod Retro

Edme & Esyllte Hattie V-Neck, Anthropologie, $68; Liz Claiborne Cheetah Print Silk Pencil Skirt, $44.99

fredflare.com Sunset Tie Blouse, $52; Anthropologie Fluttering Pencil Skirt, $158

Luichiny Dahlia Open Toe Pump, $45; Seychelles Yes Ma'Am Mary Jane Pump, $72.11; Naughty Monkey Lopsided Pump, $72.83; all endless.com

P.S. For more great looks, remember to tune in for Season 3 of Mad Men, starting next Sunday, August 16.

Say It's Your Birthday!

August 4, 2009

Today is my 32nd birthday. I'm officially in my 30s now. Yikes. I still feel like I'm 21. It is amazing how quickly a year goes by. It seems like I just had a birthday. When I told my mom this, she laughed and said, "that's what happens when you get older." Thanks, Mom -- you always put things in perspective for me.

I figured today of all days, I'd post a little selfish piece for me. My fashion birthday wish. The ultimate birthday dress. I found two! One is more sophisticated and classy; the other one is fun, flirty and bold. I'd say for the most part, those two types of dress express exactly who I am -- sophisticated but also a little sassy.

So, here's to a great 32nd year and a little extra sassy in my step.

Sophisticated & Classic