Chic for Cheap: Mix + Match Winter Ensemble

(scroll down to see some outfits using these pieces)

Hello lovelies.  Today's Chic for Cheap comes at the request of reader Michelle who will soon be visiting the US from Canada and is excited to do some shopping.  Here's how she describes her challenge:

"I LOVE LOVE LOVE your Chic for Cheap creations. I'm always so sad that I can't get the clothes you show in your mock-ups because I am Canadian. While I take inspiration from your looks I've always wanted to buy an entire outfit.
Well my husband and I are planning on making a big shopping spree trip down to the US later in November and I am so excited! It's our Christmas gift for each other, so I get to spend a bit of money on clothes (something that I NEVER do). 
I'd love it if you could create a couple of Fall/Winter looks that can be mixed and matched. I'm looking for semi-casual clothing (I work from home) that can be gussied up for a night out or for a meeting with clients. Any chance you would do a mock up of clothing based on that? If not, no worries, I'm sure you get lots of requests. I'll just take inspiration from your past looks."

I had a lot of fun with this challenge.  Of course you wouldn't need to purchase every piece, but I think that with all the mixing and matching potential it is well worth the total price.  There are also many more possible variations than what I show in the compilation image below.  Add in your own taste and personality...maybe throw in some unique accessories.  The whole goal is to just have fun with it and find piece that you love and will want to wear over and over again.  That's when chic really is cheap!

 

• Lianna Cardigan ~ Delias
• Silk-Blend Knit Top ~ Forever 21
• Chunky Knit Cowl Kneck Tunic ~ American Eagle Outfitters
• Shirt Dress ~ ModCloth
• Metallic Mirror Belt ~ J.Crew
• Opaque Tights in Glam Pink ~ Martin + Osa
• Medium Hoop Earrings ~ Banana Republic
• Natalie Suede Flats ~ Delias
• Tulip Skirt ~ Old Navy
• Footless Tights ~ Gap
• The Flirt Curvy Trouser Jeans ~ Old Navy
• Ramona Leather Riding Boots ~ Delias

Total: $459.79

Have fun shopping Michelle!  Melissa has put together an outfit based off of her own inspiration this week.  Head on over to her blog for a look.  xox Ez

Chic for Cheap: Thanksgiving Dinner

Today's Chic for Cheap comes at the request of reader Lizzie, who will be meeting her (conservative) boyfriend's family for the first time this Thanksgiving.  To mix things up Melissa and I thought it would be nice to also use an inspiration piece in the creation of our outfits.  However, as you can see I kind of broke the "rules" and didn't end up with any one particular piece of inspiration...oops!  I did end up picking two dresses to choose from though that I think are both great for the challenge (depending upon the formality of the evening, etc).  The accessories are meant to be paired with either dress (don't you love those shoes?!).  Have a great time Lizzie...I'm sure they will love you to bits!

• Regina Chanbray Dress (dress I) ~ Delia's
• Lianna Shirtdress (dress II)~ Delia's
• Bling Cardigan ~ American Eagle
• Classic Tights ~ American Eagle
• Confetti Hoop Earrings ~ Banana Republic
• Serena Pumps by Volatile ~ Zappos

Outfit Totals:  Dress I Look - $216.50  |  Dress II Look - $221.50

Don't forget to check out Melissa's look over on her blog.  What will you be wearing to Thanksgiving dinner this year?  This is what I wore last year (so comfortable).  xo Ez

Fancy This: Elise Bergman

I spotted the luscious fashion label Elise Bergman over on Clover & Bee last week and have been looking forward to sharing it with you all ever since.

{Pieces shown are from the Elise Bergman Spring/Summer '10 collection}

The dresses have such a lovely fluidity to them and I can imagine them being worn to all the best parties and celebrations.  For more eye candy, visit the Elise Bergman site.

Chic for Cheap: inspired by art - 11. 03. 09

I've been thinking about my inspiration art piece for this look ever since I discovered it a few weeks ago in Jen Renninger's shop.  Swoon!  As much as I do love it, it was a little bit tricky for me to translate since I adore the florescent pink in the image but thought it might be a little out there for the ensemble I wanted to put together.  What do you think?  Would you be game to wear a pair of hot pink corduroys?

Melissa has put together an outfit on her blog too.  You can see it right here.

• Two-toned Printed Scarf ~ Old Navy
• Bedford Cord Boyfriend Jacket ~ Old Navy
• Solid Racer-back Tank ~ Forever 21
• AE Favorite Pants ~ American Eagle
• Timex Park Avenue Watch ~ Target
• Crystal Dangle Ring ~ J.Crew
• Leather Motorcycle Boots ~ American Eagle

Julie & Kathryn - Color Crush: Pink & Orange

Hello all, it's Julie & Kathryn from perfectbound! One of our favourite colour combinations right now is pink and orange. Nothing packs a punch like this vibrant duo – it can really liven up any room or outfit! The dining room pictured in the June issue of LivingEtc. is amazing, isn't it?! When dealing with such saturated colours it helps to see it all put together before trying it in your own home. How bold would you be willing to go?

And if you haven't checked out John Galliano's spring/summer 09 collection, be sure to take a look. We are loving the pinks and oranges paired with black.

clockwise from top left }

Pink and Orange Mor pillow by Madeline Weinrib
Mr.Pink Diana F+ at Urban Outfitters
Kaarna umbrella by Marimekko
Vintage 1960's Pop-art style curtains by Classic Modern Textiles  
Orange patent "Lotte" clutch by Lauren Merkin

Column dress in pink by Virginia Johnson