Fancy This: Martin Clothes

I really love the timeless wardrobe options created by Martin Clothes.  Each piece (while a bit of an investment) lends itself to season after season of fashionable remixes (that's when the investment really starts to pay off, right).  Just layer on affordable trendy pieces to make each classic piece current and fresh.  See more right here.  xo Ez

Inspiration Daily: 05. 19. 10

Untitled images by Shae Acopian Detar.  I've posted about Shae's gorgeous work in the past (she also has a vintage apparel shop), and you can find that post right here.

Chic for Cheap: First Day as a PR Firm Intern

Hello lovelies!  It's Chic for Cheap time (oot oot).  This week I put together a look inspired by a challenge that reader Kristin wrote in with.  Here's how she describes her fashion needs:

"I just found out I'll be moving to New York in 15 days. A last minute job opportunity came up and I'll be working for a PR firm downtown, as an intern. I've never lived in New York before and I'm afraid I don't have anything chic enough to wear! When I think of New York business, I picture pencil skirts and heels, but I have a pear-shaped body that looks awful in pencil skirts, and I've never managed heels very well, either. I need a professional looking, head-to-toe look for my first day. I need clothes that are flattering on a pear-shaped person like me, preferably with pieces that can easily mix and match."

For Kristin's look I wanted to find pieces that flatter a pear-shaped body by creating a lot of interest on the upper-portion of her body...to draw the eyes up of course.  To do this I selected a pretty ruffed top in a delicious color, and picked out the draped cardigan to create a nice balance between the two halves of her body.  Slacks are always a great option and these pants which are wide-legged, should fall strait down at the curve of the hip...giving her shape a flattering appearance (plus the linen will be nice in the coming Summer heat).  Lastly, I found some pretty earrings to tie the outfit together, and a pair of suede ballet flats that are always timeless.  The complete look is on the pricier side, but by starting out with a few solid pieces that you feel great in, and then mixing in items from your wardrobe that you already adore...you can create some new chic and cheap looks that you will love to wear for seasons to come. 

All the best to you in your new home and workplace Kristin!  xo Ez

• Ruffle Front Top with Tie - Anne Taylor Loft
• Elbow Sleeve Drape Cardigan - Anne Taylor Loft
• Wide-leg Linen Trousers - Anne Taylor Loft
• Perseus Earrings - Banana Republic
• Lola Flats by Gabriella Rocha - Zappos

Fancy This: Nancy's Fashion + Illustration

I came across these sweet fashion photo/illustration juxtapositions by Nancy Zhang the other day and was instantly smitten.  I just love her style sense...and seeing her artistic rendering of each outfit makes it all the better. 

Hop on over to her Lookbook or blog for more great looks.  Enjoy!  xo Ez

Chic for Cheap: PhD Entrance Interview

Hello lovelies!  It's Chic for Cheap time.  This week, reader Julia wrote in with a request for an outfit she can wear for an important PhD program interview.  Here are her specific needs:

"In a few weeks, I have an interview for a place on my dream PhD programme, and will also be meeting my potential supervisor for the first time.  I've been told that formal wear is not necessary, but I'd really like to make a good impression in a 'respectable, but pretty' way! I'm thinking that a skirt would be the most appropriate way to go, but as a jeans/pyjama pant-dweller, I'm a little stuck on a nice but budget friendly outfit!  Any suggestions would be very much appreciated!"

Congrats Julia...how exciting!  For this challenge I wanted to go for a look that is both classic and polished..."investing" in individual pieces that are worth their weight in gold for their timeless appeal.  Of course the great thing about classics is that you can have fun adding unique accessories that feel appropriate for the occasion.  I wanted to keep it simple this time around (you don't want to distract the interviewer), but if you feel a touch more whimsy or color is needed, go for it.  Whatever you end up putting on for your big day, don't forget to "wear" your confidence...because that is the most chic look of all!  Best of luck to you Julia.  I hope you'll write and let us know how it goes.  xo Ez

• Wide Stripe Tuxedo Shirt - Banana Republic
• Pencil Skirt with Feminine Detail - Loft
• Front Pocket Computer Tote - Target
• Inverted Teardrop Earrings - Charlotte Russe
• Klarah Heels - Anne Klein

Psst...Want more Chic for Cheap looks?  See past outfits right here.