Bargain Chic: Chadwicks

Showing posts with label Chadwicks. Show all posts

My Ruffle Paradox

April 11, 2009

Ruffles... I love them! I'm not sure why, since I've never been a real girlie-girl. In fact, for most my life I was pretty much a tomboy, with a dash of fashion flair. But for some reason, ruffles just make me happy. I think they offset my classic style with a bit of whimsy and quirkiness. And, if done right, they offer an unexpected punch of soft sophistication -- a bit of a paradox, I suppose.

This season's ruffle trends afford me the ability to be girlie in my own irreverent way. Here are a couple of designer inspiration pieces and their bargain counter-parts. Be warned, though, too many ruffles are just plain silly. So keep it simple -- one ruffle piece at a time!

Designer Looks

Poplin Ruffle Tank Dress, Zac Posen, $1150

Rose Vertigo Satchel, Valentino, $2395

Bargain Looks

Ruffle-front Sheath, Chadwicks, $39.99; Alyssa Shirt Dress, Delias, $44.50

Ruffle Front Tote, Arden B, $58; Ruffle Round Toe Flat, gojane.com, $12

Mad About Plaid

October 18, 2008

Of the many trends that have come and gone for the Fall and Winter seasons, the one that always finds its way back to us is PLAID. Whether it be a plaid skirt, a vest, a dress, or even a shirt (remember grunge?), plaid has made its way onto nearly every piece of clothing over the last few decades. Sometimes it has worked; and, sometimes it hasn't.

This season, however, it does work, and plaid is more sophisticated than ever. It's all about the cut, the shape and the style. Here are two looks that take the plaid trend and mixes it with a classic pea coat to create a chic and modern look that will last for decades to come.

Photo credit: Glamour, October 2008 issue, pg. 305.

Designer Look

Coat, jeans, shoes, D&G; scarf, bag, Dolce & Gabbana.

Bargain Look

Coat, American Eagle Outfitters, $129.50

Editor Pant, Express, $69.50

The Ming Scarf, Tasaram, $49

Tatta, Naturalizer, $69.99. Croco Dome Bag, Chadwicks, $69.

Cool Sophistication

November 3, 2007

It's challenging to find bargain pieces that exude sleek sophistication. Tailored outfits with haute couture flair often cost more than most can afford. However, finding the right silhouette with the right fabric, can turn any bargain into a polished, diva-fied look. For some inspiration, check out the two outfits below.

Chadwicks Belted Sheath, $59.99

Tribeca Women's Prime Suspect Patent Pump, $37.89

Talbot's Belted Cowl-Neck Dress, $148

Unlisted Women's Play List Pump, $45.95

Color Me Autumn

August 27, 2007

The beauty of autumn is in its changing colors. As August dwindles into September, the air shifts, the smells ripen and the soft, hazy colors of summer transform themselves into robust, vibrant colors of a changing milieu. Dispositions alter and a sense of wholeness sets in. Our thoughts shift to comfort and ease, and our wardrobe begins to reflect these feelings. Below are a few examples of clothes that exemplify this pleasant passage.

Designer Look