e.g.

it's about economics

I like the simple, clean lines and monochromatic coloring of this outfit, so I'm going to try and recreate this look by Vanessa Bruno, as seen on the Spring, 2011 runway:

shirt: 400.

pants: 415.

shoes: 500.

total: approximately (I say approximately because the prices above are guesstimates based on what I could find online) 1315.

One of the things about the outfit above that really "sings" for me is the luxurious fabric. Instead of looking for luxe pieces, I tried to capture the spirit of the look and make it more accessible for every day wear.

madewell chambray blouse: 39.99

madwell chambray trousers: 89.50

j. crew liberty print oxfords: 250. (splurge)

total: 379.49

it's about economics

A few days ago, I came across these photos on The Sartorialist, and was immediately obsessed:

Such good butt, right? Skinny jeans do nothing for my shape, and I'm bored with the silhouette. Cigarette jeans, or stovepipes are great, especially when they're a smidge too short. High waisted, flared jeans were all the rage a few years ago, but I'm feeling them again. Not wanting to sink my teeth into yet another denim purchase, I decided I'd wait until I found the right pair on sale.

But...whilst spending time with the beau today, he wanted to make a stop at the Army / Navy Surplus store, and I, eager to check out their chic bags, agreed. We poked around and my brain whirred with all the great deals; I love the olive green and drab, the textures, and smart accessories. I'd really like one of everything! I arrived at the rack with all the cute sailor garb, and what do I see, but the perfect high waisted, wide legged pants from the picture above. How much? $15! I grabbed four pairs and found the right fit. I was bummed that the ones that fit were new because the used pairs were soft like old sheets, and had sailors' names embroidered at the right side waist. They look like this:

There are large front pockets, and very large back pockets (which can either work FOR you or AGAINST you). I am going to wash my pair 100 times so they are as soft as summer. I also found the following image as I was checking out sailor dungarees. *sigh* So handsome. Now if only I can get my butt to look like the lady in the second picture above...yowza!

it's about economics

If my recent Love Letter to Isabel Marant was any indication, I am wild about her clothes. For Fall, 2009, her Ready to Wear collection was perfection - slouchy, sexy, easy clothes that women covet. The looks never feel forced; the quintessential Parisian woman! Although her price points are not as steep as Chanel, Dior, or Balenciaga, I still thought it would be fun to see if I could put together a more affordable alternative with a similar appeal. Here's the look I'm going for:

Since the collection is from Fall, 2009 and is no longer sold in boutiques, I did some research and am making some educated guesses on the actual costs. If I'm way off, let me know. 

Dress - 500.

Over the knee boots - 750.

Total - 1250.

I was very excited to find the following dress by Malene Birger, originally priced at 271. for only 81. on The Outnet:

Over the knee boots are a challenge - they can err on the *cough* unsophisticated side pretty quick. When paired with the dress above, the look is more relaxed and sweet than "street"...I found these boots by Report for 120. at Nordstrom online. Still spendy, but for this look, I think it's smart to splurge on the boots.

Dress - 81.

Over the knee boots - 120.

Total - 201.

Total savings - 1,049.

Long, flowing hair, Parisian girl attitude, and sick sick legs? I'll let you work that part out.

 

it's about economics

Dries van Noten Fall, 2010 Ready to Wear:

Knit top, 325.

Metallic skirt, app. 600.

Shoes, 670.

total: 1595.

e.g. version: 

Eco-sweatshirt by Alternative Apparel in eco-grey: 40.

I think this is expensive, but I'm sick of American Apparel AND this is made from recycled product. 

Floreat skirt at Anthropologie, 128. Also expensive, but wait 3-4 weeks, and this puppy will be in the clearance section of your local Anthropologie.

Pay-Less, Karma Pumps by Dexter: 22.99

total: 190.99

savings of: 1,404.01

it's about economics

I like this runway look by Richard Nicoll for Fall, 2010. I like the pairing of a simple t-shirt with a graphic image, with a tailored maxi skirt and wide belt. I like that it's simple, not fussy, and looks wearable.

As an experiment, I thought I'd break down the cost of the outfit, piece by piece. Are you ready?

t-shirt = 515.

maxi skirt = I can't locate the actual price, but I'm going to guess 800.

So for just 1115. U.S. dollars, the ensemble featured above can be yours.

Ack! This is a crime. But it got me thinking about a new regular post. IT'S ABOUT ECONOMICS! I'm going to select pieces from past, present, and future Ready to Wear collections, and show you a more economical version. Today I'm starting with Richard Nicoll's appallingly overpriced duds above. Here's my version:

$25 t-shirt here

 

$38 belt here

$55 dollar skirt here

Truth be told, I'd probably try to locate the t-shirt and belt at a thrift store (or Urban Outfitters clearance), invest in a decent, dark maxi skirt, and bust out the chunky, black shoes to complete the look.

For a grand total of $118 dollars, give or take $60, depending upon your resourcefulness, you can look like a Richard Nicoll runway creation. I have faith in you, though, dear readers. Shop with intention! And if you have any "looks" you'd like me to economize, send them on over.