9.21.2013

Flounce and Flare

So now that we are friends on Pinterest, we can have deep conversations about all the wonderful fashions we are viewing on a daily basis.

One outfit I have been obsessed with is this outfit featured in Lucky magaizne.



Side note: I don't intend to make everything about Pinterest going forward.

But! The great reveal here is the skirt shape. Previously I didn't enjoy a tulip flare silhouette but for some reason this outfit spoke to me and I had a change of my fashion-focused heart.


A flounce skirt is sort of a win-win.  If you have hips, the flare adds balance whereas if you are more straight through the hips, the flare creates some feminine curves.  This skirt is also a nice balance of structure and movement.  The pencil shape is sleek and professional.  The flounce is flirty and fluid.  Like I said...win-win-win-win.

Flounce Skirt For Fall

I love this outfit for many reasons but mainly because it's something to wear-now for this awkward, in-between time of year.  Cream chunky sweaters are officially on my radar and I think it is the next item up on my wish list.  Like the flounce skirt, I wasn't that crazy about this Rebecca Minkoff clutch but now I am having second thoughts.  This ALDO option is more affordable for almost the same look.  These burgundy shoes are amazing. I have a similar Sam Edelman pair that I wear to death.  Let's add a funky pearl ring and spiked bracelet set for contrast.  My favorite "almost lipstick" and Fall's hottest nailpolish shade complete this Pinteresting look.  Oh and there is a leather bow barrette.  I love it.

Happy Fall people.

9.19.2013

CC Stands For Cobalt Crush

Every season one color emerges as the hottest, most in style hue.

This Fall cobalt blue is making a major statement and is a necessary addition to your wardrobe.

It's bright.  It's bold and ready to bounce with your basics.

CC Stands For Cobalt Crush

  1. Bauble Bar Bib $20 My favorite necklace hands down. Feel free to scour eBay for this same necklace.  Much less expensive but some downgrade in quality.
  2. Nine West Faycie Ultramarine Flats $39.99 A fancy flat that reminds me of the famous Sex and the City cobalt Blahniks.
  3. Mossimo Short Sleeve Dress w/ Zipper Pockets $24.99  This dress is so versatile.  Wear now while it's still warm out and with tights and boots come cold weather.  Great under a blazer or a leather jacket.
  4. Zara TRF Bowling Bag $35.90 A cobalt structured bag is a must-have accessory for Fall.
  5. Apt. 9 Ponte Peplum Top $28 Peplum, ponte and faux leather detailing?  Could this top be anymore perfect?
  6. Sole Society 'Elisa' Suede Bow Pump $59.95 Cobalt pumps are the perfect pop to any outfit. Try an all-black ensemble with cobalt shoes.
  7. Kendra Scott Cobalt Hoop Earring $36 So delicate and pretty.  Love with a black turtleneck.
  8. Express Ultimate Double Weave Columnist Pant $48 My favorite pant begging to be paired with a crisp white blouse for maximum brightness.
Personally I am happy cobalt is having a moment because it's a universally flattering color.  It looks good on most skin types plus it's extremely versatile as it pairs well with neutrals. See below for more proof that cobalt blue is the #1 color for Fall.

Oh what's that?  The new Couture Cheapskate on Pinterest?  Double holler!


Couture Cheapskate
Follow Couture Cheapskate on Pinterest for daily fashion that is affordable, inspirational and in some cases, aspirational.
Let's hear it for cobalt blue, Pinterest and the boys!

9.16.2013

Fall All-Stars

Mid-September features two major returns: the NFL and Fall fashion.

And like the NFL, in fashion, you always play your All-Stars to ensure victory.

Fall All-Stars


Leather: Leather is the foundation fabric of any Fall wardrobe. The good news is there are many affordable faux options available at every price point.

Lace: The thing with lace is that it never really goes away no matter the season.  For Fall, it takes a darker, more noir turn in mysterious black.  Or gets a pop in jewel tones.

Leopard: Animal print is a year-round classic but feels more at-home in cooler temperatures.

Red: Red is a go-to color every season, however, this season red is more atop the color chart than usual as a new neutral.

Fur: I only like fur of the faux variety and fur is the perfect accent to make any look more luxe.

Studs: Hard core stud details are more abundant during Fall as fabrics become heavier.

When analyzing your Fall closet, these classics are your no-brainer players that you build the rest of your wardrobe around.

8.27.2013

Animal Print Classic

Animal print is classic and a must-have in any wardrobe.


Sweatshirt Chic from GAP.

Animal print apparel may feel too wild for some, so a pair of comfy flats is the perfect way to ease into the jungle.  I am feeling ballet flats more than usual this season because of their slipper-like quality.  Ballet flats are the perfect footwear for leggings, skinny jeans and the chic sweats showing up everywhere this season.  A pair in animal print makes your outfit instantly more fashion forward and sophisticated.  Easy breezy.


This top is part of my personal collection.  The price is insane especially because the top doesn't look cheap. I know I have previously ended my relationship with peplums but they are just so flattering.  I tried this shirt on with black shorts the day I bought it and I loved how cute and comfortable my outfit became.  I also think this top will be perfect with a black pencil skirt when I don't feel like putting much effort into what to wear to work.


I saw a dress by MNG by Mango in this same print and style at jcpenney however I cannot find it online. This is basically the same dress but directly from MANGO.  According to my People StyleWatch September issue, the long-sleeve sheath is an official trend.  I can't imagine a better way to rock this trend then a long-sleeve sheath in a funky animal print.  Beyond.  With a pair of rock star black booties?  Double beyond. You can wear this particular dress four seasons and for $40, that's a complete bargain.

This is why animal print is a classic.  Besides being a neutral color palette, you can decide how conservative or wild you want to go based on your personal style.

8.23.2013

Red Shoe Heaven

Red + Ankle Straps + Midi Heel = Shoe Heaven.


I am so relieved that midi heels are a thing this Fall.  Ever since Rachel Zoe said kitten heels were pointless, my heart has been broken because I love a smaller heel.  This season I will take my heels up about an inch but still firmly planted in that comfort zone of under 3 inches.


Red is always classic and a pair of red pumps has been on my wish list since last Fall.  That being said, the wild card here is the ankle strap.  Ankle strap shoes have been on the scene since Spring but now are officially in.  Believe it or not, ankle strap shoes are actually flattering.  By highlighting the thinnest part of your leg, your legs appear longer and leaner.  Done and done.

Fine.  Blake Lively is a bad example because she is perfection but you get the point.

So here's the deal.  Red shoes were on my wish list to begin with.  With this affordable pair from Sole Society, I am getting two trends for the price of one plus filling a perceived (read: not actual) hole in my wardrobe.  I am honestly having a hard time thinking of a more practical purchase.

CCTip:  Sole Society has the best feature, "Shop The Look" which features outfit ideas for each shoe. Perfect for if you are unsure on how to try a new trend.