Luxury Look-Alikes For Less / Show Me The Shoes: Studded Ankle Booties From Neiman Marcus & Charlotte Russe!


Since I’m all about the bargains & fabulous shoes, I wanted to bring the best of both worlds together for my latest Luxury Look-Alikes For Less post, which just so happens to be cross-listed with my posts for Show Me The Shoes.  Anyway, when I reorganized my closet for the fall-winter season, I was happily reunited with my ankle booties that I just love to wear with textured tights, pencil skirts, straight leg jeans, & classic cardigans.

I’m excited to share two very similar studded ankle booties, which call on your rocker sensibilities, but would also play nicely off of more delicate pieces like lace accents, stripes, or luxe fabrics like brocade.  From Neiman Marcus, I found the studded heart-toe platform bootie ($1,185.00) by Alexander McQueen, which are utterly gorgeous & I especially love the edgy, but sweet heart detail.  Opposite is the studded double buckle heel bootie ($38.50) from Charlotte Russe, which is much more budget-friendly than the luxury pick.  In addition, Charlotte Russe is currently having a Buy One Get One $10 sale on all shoes, which only makes me even more gleeful to go shoe shopping- when the weather clears up, that is.

For more shoe-lovin’ posts, check out hot two-tone boots by Ivanka Trump, Stuart Weitzman’s James Franco-directed video, & what pumps to wear with your stripes & floral look! Happy Styling!

Splurge or Save… A Burgundy Blouse?


The color of the upcoming fall-winter season is burgundy & its related hues, including brick, deep red, maroon, oxblood, merlot, & so on. I have to say that this isn’t a color I wear often, but I can see the luxury in it, especially when it comes to classic & feminine pieces like a burgundy blouse. Lately, Style Darling has been all about what’s been going down at New York Fashion Week with manic posts under Runway Rundown, but if we’re going to look ahead, let’s talk about what we should be considering for updating our wardrobe this fall.  Even if you’re not looking to stay on-trend, the idea of a burgundy blouse is pretty timeless.  It will look lush & expensive against any black, gray, navy, cream, mustard (yes, I said mustard), or denim pieces that you already own & rely on for building your everday looks.  Keep with the jewel tones & add a splash of deep purple for some colorblocking!

I’ve found five similar blouses that fit the criteria for Splurge of Save?, ranging in price from nearly $400 to under $20.  Of course, when it comes to a blouse, you have to consider the care that you will take in cleaning it, if it’s hand wash or dry clean only, which will entail an extra cost & time spent going to & from a reliable dry cleaners. Also, let’s say that for the sake of variety, we’d be looking at wearing this blouse twice a month from September to April. That’s 8 months & 16 wears, which is how we’ll figure the always important CPW (cost per wear).

The most expensive, but perhaps my favorite of all these blouses is the Equipment Signature 2-pocket silk chiffon shirt ($398.38) from ASOS. The subtle polka dot print can also be mixed with other prints like a pinstripe pant or always fashionable houndstooth pencil skirt if you’re going for a real runway-inspired look.  At most, this comes to just under $25 per wear, which can always buy you a great lunch & dessert with a refreshing glass of wine when you’re out with the girls.  Next, the Joie ‘Marru’ pleated blouse ($198.00) @Neiman Marcus is a less conventional looking blouse, but the modern pleats down the front add texture to this flowy feminine piece.  Wearing this will cost you less than $13 each day, which doesn’t sound so bad, but for some, the sleeve-length may not be favorable.  This can always be remedied with a cool cardigan or heavy knit wrap sweater. ALso, keep in mind that light pieces like blouses can always soften up tough separates like a leather jacket!

Thirdly, the Calvin Klein roll sleeve shirt ($69.50) from Bloomingdale’s doesn’t necessarily fall under the blouse category, but if worn with the right separates, this shirt can be utilized for day or night, in the office or for a date.  The sporty sleeves are perfect for pairing with a menswear-inspired vest, but this can also be coordinated with faux leather leggings, tucked in with satin shorts & tights, or simply worn with distressed boyfriend jeans & flats.  Dress this up with an embellished cardigan & drop earrings, or keep it simple with a croc embossed belt & riding boots.  For just over $4 a day, this doesn’t seem like such a bad deal, but of course, every Style Darling knows to keep their budget in mind.

For those who love the retro look, consider the ‘Prepare to Bordeaux’ top ($49.99) from Mod Cloth, which recalls that sexy librarian / secretary vibe, while also donning an air of Old Hollywood.  With a metallic-accented brocade pencil skirt or sequined mini, this is perfect with a killer blazer or worn to show off the sheer sleeves.  Not to mention that the scarf-like knot at the neck draws attention to your face.  Not to keep getting too math-y, for just over $3 a day, this blouse is worth the investment.  Lastly, Forever 21‘s shirred high-low shirt ($19.80) is our least expensive blouse, costing barely $1.25 per wear & is also great for styling for day or night.  Take a cue from the pic above & try your favorite pair of colored jeans, or create a 70’s look with wide leg jeans & camel accessories.

Which blouse is your favorite? Are you getting into the burgundy trend? How would you style this look? What piece would you like to see next in Splurge or Save? Happy Styling! (Special thanks to graphic designer, Nino Vlacich <3, for his time & skills in creating the image above!)

Splurge Or Save… On Leopard Print Flats?


I recently had a very insightful discussion on the preferences of animal print, how to wear it & what the essentials are for one’s wardrobe (yes, this really happened). Of course I’m crazy for zebra (with a purse, flats, sheets, laundry bin, skirt, etc…), however leopard print just won’t go away, & why should it? I own a satin pair of ballerina flats with a fabulous leopard print & bow-crystal accent at the heel.  They’re super comfortable & perfect for any casual look or fashionable dinner with the girls.

In my newest category (yes, the creativity just keeps pouring out- see Fabulous in 4 Ways), Splurge or Save? will investigate an item at different price points.  Staples like leopard print flats can be found virtually anywhere, especially this time of year when we’re preparing our fall wardrobes for chic splashes of personality when the weather becomes crisper.

As you can see, we have a little celebrity inspiration joining us. Fashion icon Alexa Chung wears her pointed toe leopard flats with a menswear-inspired shirtdress, reinforcing why she’s just so darn fun to watch.  Designer Whitney Port looks sweet mixing prints in her Whitney Eve outfit & leopard flats.  Socialite Olivia Palermo, who’s been everywhere lately it seems, breaks out in a feminine floral shorts look & some bowed leopard flats.  However, now that we’ve seen some of Style Darling‘s favorite celebrities wearing leopard print flats, let’s take a look at what I’ve found, ranging in price from $14.99 – $275.00!

The above five shoes range quite a bit in price, but each share the same concept of a bow detail & black trim around the foot, which emphasize the classic design of a ballet flat.  First, the RED Valentino leopard print ballerina flat ($275.00) from Neiman Marcus would cost you just over $10/wear if you wore them once every other week. Perhaps this doesn’t sound so bad, but dropping the cash to buy them initially will put a big dent in any shopper’s budget.  I’d feel lucky to the proud owner of any Valentino piece, but at this point in my life, such luxuries will only appear on Super Style Wishlist.  Next, the Ashley bow ballet flat ($98.00) from Banana Republic will earn you plenty of rewards points for future discounts if you’re a cardholder, but the fact that this style of ballet flat is available in other such trendy textures like tweed, patent leather, croc, houndstooth, metallic, & suede will certainly suit your shopping fancies.

While clicking around @Nine West, I discovered the Cacey flats ($79.00), which serve double purpose with the patent leather cap toe accenting the wild print.  However, the cost-per-wear for these is down to $3/wear, if worn once every other week.  NOTE: Select designs of this shoe (polka dots & pink colorblock leather) are currently reduced to $29.00 on the website! Moving on… I was pleasantly surprised to find that ALDO‘s clearance section included the Warnack flats ($35.00) which have been reduced from their original $70.00 price tag.  The metal tips on the bow add some extra detail to what surely will be an already polished look.

Lastly, the most affordable pair in our collection includes the American Eagle Flash flat ($14.99) @Payless– my go-to source for shoes.  I know I can always rely on Payless for comfortable, yet stylish shoes that work with my budget, especially when I’m on the go & can’t always take the time to go shopping in a store. When ordering online, Payless offers FREE SHIPPING if your purchase is shipped to a store location, which always makes me happy.  Since these are the least expensive of all of the selections, I’d like to inform readers that the CPW (again, cost-per-wear) now becomes less than .60/wear.  If you plan on wearing them more than once every other week- & I don’t blame you b/c they’re just so cute!- you’re still getting a bargain for a reliable must-have when building an outfit.

How much would you spend on a pair of leopard flats? This sort of investment will keep paying your back, since these versatile statements of footwear can go with you to the office, school, on a date, or wherever your day may lead you. I know I’m a sucker for a good deal, but when it comes to shoes, there are a few other factors to consider like fit, how well the texture is made, if I like the print, & so on. What about you? What would you do? Would you splurge or save? Happy Styling!

Watch This Style: Video Of Brad Goreski & The Styling Industry with Nightline!


If you’re addicted to fashion & can’t stop talking about styling (just like me), not only are you a Style Darling, but you will LOVE the next (almost) six minutes of this video taken from a segment on ABC’s Nightline, which discusses the work of stylist Brad Goreski, as well as how stars like Jessica Alba, Lady Gaga, & Mila Kunis have become fashion icons during their red carpet appearances. In addition, the video talks about the empire that Brad’s former boss, Rachel Zoe, has built, not only as a stylist who charges upwards of $10,000/day, but as a designer for QVC & her high-end collection for Neiman Marcus. Who do you like better- Brad or Rachel? Do you watch It’s A Brad, Brad World & The Rachel Zoe Project?

If you can’t get enough of fashion-related videos online, then let me guide you through more from Watch This Style, featuring Victoria Beckham’s guest editor position for Glamour‘s September issue, a behind-the-scenes look at Lady Gaga in Vogue’s September issue, & Mariah Carey’s top 5 most stylish music videos! Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes For Less: Christian Louboutin & GOjane Reinvent Jellies For Fall!


A few days ago, I was fortunate enough to find this image posted by the one & only, Christian Louboutin Shoes on Facebook, & couldn’t get the idea of cap toe ankle strap jelly heels out of my head. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to find them anywhere, not on the Christian Louboutin site, or on Neiman Marcus, but nonetheless, we know that since they’re original Christian Louboutin designs, they’ll be super expensive.

I love the reinvention of jellies in a chic, modern, day-appropriate way & then I came across the cap toe heels ($22.60) from GOjane, which are available in green, pink, orange, yellow, red, & white. These shoes can help translate summer pieces like a neon blouse for fall with a printed pencil skirt, as well as help make retro pieces like a jumpsuit look more youthful & flirty.

What do you think about these shoes by Christian Louboutin & their GOjane counterparts? For more cap toe shoe madness, check out my post featuring pumps worn by Ashley Greene & Sarah Jessica Parker! Happy Styling!

Watch This Style / Runway Rundown: Valentino’s Haute Couture Fall 2012 / Winter 2013 Show!


I’ve been staying on top of all the latest runway shows, trying to add a little more high fashion splash to Style Darling & came across this enchanting video of the latest from Valentino.  The legendary brand’s Haute Couture Fall 2012 / Winter 2013 show is full of dramatic construction, gothic hues, flirty florals, lavish long sleeves, & glamorous gold sparkle, perfect as a platform for next season’s envious styles. I can already see the likes of red carpet veterans like Angelina Jolie, Cate Blanchett, & Meryl Streep donning these unforgettable designs.  You can shop for Valentino @Net-A-Porter, Far Fetch, Neiman Marcus, & Nordstrom!

For more on the latest resort & fall / winter collections, check out previous posts, including Jason Wu & Michael Kors! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Jason Wu’s Resort 2013 Collection!


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Jason Wu is one of the most in-demand designers right now. It was a no-brainer to search for his latest Resort 2013 Collection, especially when some of my favorite red carpet regulars like Michelle Williams, Diane Kruger, & Emma Stone have been spotted wearing feminine frocks from the line.  If you’re all about lace, florals, classic silhouettes, & fierce colors, then this one collection you can’t miss.  Be sure to click through the gallery & share which looks are your favorites! If you’re looking for more from Jason Wu, keep an eye out @Neiman Marcus, Net-A-Porter, & Nordstrom. Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Rachel Zoe’s Resort 2013 Collection!


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Any time Rachel Zoe adds one more fashion / style credential to her name, Stye Darling will be there.  This time, we’re talking about her Resort 2013 collection, featuring brights, basics, & bold prints.  The always stylish designer / stylist has created an admirable empire that have made stars like Jennifer Garner, Demi Moore, & Anne Hathway red carpet A-listers.  Not to mention that Zoe’s collections @Neiman Marcus are wildly popular, trend-setting, & always gorgeous for us to gasp over.  Here’s a gallery of the latest from the star of The Rachel Zoe Project, which I hope will premiere another season on Bravo sometime soon! Check out The Zoe Report for everyday finds & for all the best fashion finds! Happy Styling!

Super Style Wishlist: The Top 10 Wedges From Neiman Marcus!


I’ve been flipping through the pages of all my favorite magazines, falling madly in love with all the latest spring styles.  I’m most excited about the new spring shoes that are coming out & since Fashion Week, I’ve been keeping an eye out on all of the best luxury brands.  My go-to store for such labels is Neiman Marcus.  Low & behold, when I was searching through their shoe selection, they showed a to-die-for Top 10 Best Wedges portion to their online store & I just had to share it with my readers!

The stylish selections includes designs by Rachel Zoe, Giuseppe Zanotti, Jimmy Choo, Ash, Christian Louboutin, Prada, TOMS, Tory Burch, Gucci, & Manolo Blahnik.  If you hover your mouse over the image, you’ll see the expensive prices on these shoes, which ranges from $138.00 to $965.00! For more from Super Style Wishlist, check out my previous posts featuring the Miu Miu store in Italy & colorful resort styles! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown / Watch This Style: Rachel Zoe’s 60s-Inspired Pre-Fall Collection + A Video Interview by Neiman Marcus Fashion Director, Ken Downing!


It’s not a secret by now that one of my favorite style icons is the one & only Rachel Zoe!  I’ve posted so much about her collections (here & here), as well as honoring her as Style Darling’s very first (& so far only) .com Darling! Also, for my column “A Dash of Fashion” on Culture Mob, I recently wrote about Rachel’s fabulous jewelry collection on sale @QVC!

However, courtesy of In Style, we have some amazing images of Rachel’s latest pre-Fall collection, which includes a lot of 60s-inspiration with her signature 70s / boho chic elegance.  Rachel told the magazine, “I am so madly in love with this Pre-Fall collection! I really wanted to add a lot of mod elements to this season, the 60s is truly one of my favorite eras… We also expanded a ton on suiting, which will always be my signature, but we added an amazing new pencil skirt which should be a staple in everyone’s closet. There are definitely still some elements of the ‘70s too and the leathers and faux fur are to die for.”

There’s definitely evidence of inspiration here from icons like Coco Chanel, with the glamorous & tailored suits.  Not to mention that the more delicate pieces like mini dresses in soft fabrics & glittery cocktail dresses show off a youthful flair that Rachel is famous for bringing out in clients like Eva Mendes, Anne Hathaway, & Molly Sims.

Take a look at some of the best images from the multifaceted collection that will be available at upscale stores like Nordstrom & Neiman Marcus. Also, check out the exclusive interview with Rachel, courtesy of Neiman Marcus where she talks about her vision for her collection, as well as her style dos!  Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes for Less: Get Embellished With A Clutch from Forever 21 or by Judith Leiber @Neiman Marcus!


My apologies, Style Darlings, for the long-awaited return of my style posts.  This holiday season has demanded much of my time & now that I’m officially done with all school & baking obligations, I can devote more time to the best picks for the end of the year celebration.  What better way to do that than with a return to Luxury Look-Alikes for Less?!

If you’re looking for the best New Year’s Eve accessory as you’re making plans for a fabulous party, check out these two clutches, which vary in price by a wide margin!  Of course, there’s a certain je-ne-sais-quoi about the luxe design of a clutch by accessories-designer-to-the-stars, Judith Leiber, especially when it comes to this fizzy studded envelope clutch ($1595.00) from Neiman Marcus.  However, since we’re Style Darling son a budget, you can carry on the same embellished feel with the glamour pearl clutch bag ($14.80) from Forever 21, while saving yourself lots of money.  What’s so great about both of these bags is that they’re flashy enough for a girl’s night out, a more formal event, or for cocktail hour.  Remember: Style Darlings should always get the most out of their wardrobe & accessories, so let’s make that our resolution for 2012!  Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes For Less: An Oscar de la Renta Belt Vs. A Bargain $9.50 Belt!


It’s been a while since I posted something in Luxury Look-Alikes for Less & what better way to do that than with a belt? I’m always drooling away on the Neiman Marcus website & Oscar de la Renta is one of my favorite designers to check out from season-to-season.  I found the alligator-embossed leaf belt ($750.00) in peanut which had a really great thickness to it, which would look perfect over a sweater dress or help jazz up an LBD.

However, since the price is out of range, I found the linked front stretch belt ($9.50) in cognac from Charlotte Russe. Although the bargain belt does not have the leaf accent, its natural hue is rich & would cinch in your waist when wearing a sheath dress or for a tunic top over leggings.  It can dress up something as casual as an oversized tee or help make a ruffled blouse & pants more casual for day time. Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Rachel Zoe’s Stylish Spring 2012 Collection!


My favorite celebri-stylist Rachel Zoe just keeps getting more & more fabulous, especially with her upcoming Spring 2012 Collection, sold exclusively @Neiman Marcus. The fashionable force behind Anne Hathaway’s eight costume changes at this year’s Oscar ceremony is a workaholic, but is changing the face of fashion, one Style Darling at a time.  I told my readers about her debut collection back in February & now I’m super excited to share this sneak peak at the upcoming spring line.

My inspiration was Brigitte Bardot, early ‘70s, south of France, super glamorous but never trying too hard, never forced, always easy,” she revealed to In Style during a recent interview. The collection includes textured, whimsical maxi dresses, tailored suits, & retro separates that are so easy to mix up with modern pieces like dark denim jeans or one-shoulder tops.

Of course this collection is out of the average Style Darling’s budget, but it’s always a good idea to check out the latest styles that are making headlines in the industry.  I love the merlot-hued suit, especially with the cropped pants, which just scream for extra high pumps.  Speaking of accessories, you can check out all of Rachel’s glamorous shoes & handbags on the Neiman Marcus website, including all apparel, ranging in price $225.00 – $650.00.

For more on the style behind Rachel Zoe’s empire, check out The Zoe Report, Zoe Beautiful, & AccessZOEries on her official website.  Also, aring Tuesday nights on Bravo, you can check out her always-entertaining reality show, The Rachel Zoe Project. Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes For Less: Suede Ankle Boots by Dolce Vita Vs. Forever 21 Boots Under $30!


I’m definitely a boot girl & I love a boot with some platform too.  Of course, this isn’t necessarily safe for an icy winter night, but we all suffer for fashion in some way or another, don’t we?  I haven’t posted in Luxury Look-Alikes for Less in a while, but these were the first ones I found in a very quick search.  I love finding a bargain look-alike, especially one with a price difference of over $200!

If you’re browsing around Neiman Marcus, ready to drool over the gorgeous, expensive fashions, then you’ve probably seen the Dolce Vita suede platform boot for $245.00.  They have a 5″ heel & are also available in hot pink! Yes, these are made in Italy & deserve all the acclaim for being fabulous, but is this a budget-friendly investment?

Enter Forever 21‘s suedette ankle boot with a 5.5″ heel.  They cost a mere $27.80 & although these are in grey, they’re still equally as fashionable as their black & pink luxury counterparts.

What would you wear these with?  Is the super high platform too scary for you?  How much would you spend on boots like these? Check out our previous Luxury Look-Alikes for Less posts, including cap-toe pumps, jewelry, & plaid tops! Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes For Less: Cap Toe Pumps Worn by Sarah Jessica Parker, Lake Bell, & Ashley Greene!


One of the biggest shoes trends this fall is a cap toe pump.  No one’s saying to give up your pointed toe platforms or towering round toe slingbacks, but perhaps as an upgrade beyond peep toes, the answer is cap toe (also to solve any procrastination in getting that pedicure!).

Here we have some celebrity inspiration from which to draw, including Sarah Jessica Parker attended a press event in Moscow for her upcoming film I Don’t Know How She Does It.  She paired her cap toe pumps with an elongating Prabal Gurung sheath dress & megawatt smile.  Also, Lake Bell showed off some skin in a Cushnie et Ochs peek-a-boo dress at a screening of A Good Old Fashioned Orgy in Los Angeles.  She accessorized with M.C.L. By Matthew Campbell Laurenza cuff, a black & gold clutch by Lena Erziak, & Salvatore Ferragamo pumps.  Lastly, Ashley Greene supported Ferragamo’s latest collection wearing the designer head-to-toe, including the two-tone cap toe pumps.

While the Ferragamo brand cap toe pumps run anywhere in the ballpark of $700 @Nordstrom & Prada makes a square toe version for $650 @Neiman Marcus, there are other affordable means by which one can sport the trend & maintain a proper style budget. Go to Victoria’s Secret to see the Bebe brand pointed toe pumps in fuchsia, blue, & black for $99.00.  If you can’t commit to just two colors, try the colorblock suede pumps from Charlotte Russe for $35.50. For a softer touch of lace, there’s always the blush faux leather & lace pumps from AMIClubwear & you’ll also find the black & blue glitter pumps, both for $29.99.  If you want to show your wild side, the lace & animal print bowed pumps from GOjane are only $27.50 & would look fierce with an LBD.  @ASOS, you’ll find the striking yellow court shoe with the stud toe cap for $47.57.  Last, but not least, Project Runway winner, Christian Siriano has expanded his exclusive collection for Payless with the pearl platform pump for $59.99.

Do you own any cap toe pumps?  Do you like this trend?  Who do you think wears it the best?  Have you seen this look on anyone else?  Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes For Less: The Big Jewelry Post Featuring Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, & More!


Who doesn’t love fashion jewelry?!  For starters, the real thing is fabulous, but when you can find luxury look-alikes like these, who’s thinking about dropping some serious dough?

During my search, I came across these blue-stone hoop earrings.  One pair is $695.00 @Bergdorf Goodman, whereas the other comparable pair is sold @Kohl’s by the Candies label for under $10.  These are the perfect pop of color to bring out any eye color, especially with a boldly printed maxi dress, or if you’re sporting a ruffled blouse & skinny jeans for date night!  Next, if you’re looking for animal-inspired accessories, check out the Ikat bangle by Kate Spade from Neiman Marcus, however it runs $128.00, whereas the white leopard option is a mere $5.80 @Forever 21.  If you’re wearing solids like a sultry red, or a bright cobalt mini dress, here’s where animal prints work best in your accessories.

If you’re into two-finger rings, a la Gwen Stefani’s Rock Steady phase, check out what designers Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen have designed for their label, Elizabeth & James.  The sea urchin two finger ring costs $175.00 @Bloomingdale’s, but is comparable in the rock star chic sense to the Candie’s crystal two finger ring from Kohl’s for $11.20.  Lastly, I wasn’t intentionally looking to feature a second pair of earrings, but I couldn’t get over how similarly these drop earrings are & just had to make room for them! Between Nordstrom & Forever 21, both pairs show off gold tones, but vary in price from $4.80 all the way up to $262.00!  These are the perfect finishing touches on a look with upswept hair or a messy ponytail!

Check out our previous Luxury Look-Alikes posts for more great affordable ways to recreate these stylish finds!  Is there a piece that you’re looking for, but can’t find for less cash?  I can’t make any promises, but I’ll do my best to try & find it!  Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes For Less: Super Strappy Black Gladiator Sandals from Barneys Vs. Mandee!


If you’re looking for some super sexy strappy black gladiator sandals for a cocktail dress or your favorite little black dress, then check these out!  However, I was soooo enchanted by a pair from Barney’s, but couldn’t get past the $675.00 price tag.  Naturally this is b/c the brand of the ‘Zaira’ is Loeffler Randall, which is also available @Zappos, Neiman Marcus, Singer 22, & Nordstrom.

However, as a Style Darling on a budget, check out Mandee for these four-inch strappy cone heel sandals.  They only cost $15.00 & while the two pairs of sandals are not identical, they’re pretty close in concept.  Think about how much you buy for $675 & why in the world would you want to spend that much on one pair of shoes (unless of course money was not an issue)?

When I look for shoes, it’s all about getting the most for my money.  As a regular on the Mandee website & in their stores, I’ve found their shoe selection very reliable in comfort & style.  Not to mention all the discount rewards you can earn just for having the store’s credit card! Check out previous Luxury Look-Alikes for Less posts for more great affordable & stylish finds! Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes for Less: Lace Pumps From $33 – $758!


If you’ve got a summer evening wedding coming up, I always say: Go for some lace pumps!  But what if you don’t already own a pair, then it’s time to start shopping.  If you’re first step is to check out what’s online & where, then take a deep breath b/c we’re spanning across MANY different price points here.  I know I’m always looking for something stylish & affordable, which is why I turn to some of my favorite resources like GOjane, 6PM, & Windsor Store for budget-friendly special occasion items!

However, if you take a look at the image to the right, you’ll see that three pairs of these lacey shoes are very pricey.  This (I guess) makes sense since we’re dealing with designs by Christian Louboutin, Alexander McQueen, and Elizabeth and James (by the Olsen twins).

Some advice: Don’t ever do all-over lace, unless it’s in something by Dolce & Gabbana b/c otherwise it’ll look cheap or like lingerie, or like both!  Lace pumps would look very demure with your favorite little black dress, or perhaps something ruffled.  Of course when you’re doing lace, you can go a little more sexy with them by picking out a peep toe pair for your most flattering cocktail dress, or try dressy shorts with a silk tank to wear with the cut-out pair.  Maybe even dress up a romper or separate the pieces of a skirt suit to make it look happy-hour-ready with pumps like these!

What do you like to wear lace pumps with?  Which are your favorite bargain shoes stores? Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes for Less: A Michael Kors Peep Toe Platform Vs. A GOjane Super Deal!


I was so pleased to find these (sort of) look-alikes!  One pair is just over $30 from GOjane & the other is a big whopping $850.00.  That’s of course b/c of the label: Michael Kors.  Although one is a buckled peep toe platform & the other is a bow back platform, you can still achieve the same sense of a covered-up ankle.  Sometimes I think this style of shoe cuts off the legline, but both pairs are also available in nude & there, you really can’t go wrong.  That’s when the style became a focal point of illusion.  For example, take a look at Rachel Bilson back in February sporting peep toe shooties.

An ankle wrap peep-toe platform is sexy for lace shorts & cowlneck top for a dressy occasion.  Or go casual chic in a jersey tankcity shorts, & a linen hobo bag. Even mix & match different pieces like a plaid button down with a zippered mini skirt! Why not try a lacey tee with black skinny jeans & a ruffled blazer!

If you’re in constant pursuit of finding affordable & stylish shoes, subscribe to the GOjane emails!  If you’re looking to learn more about the designs of Michael Kors, check out Neiman Marcus, where this item is sold.  Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes for Less: Animal Print Espadrilles by Jimmy Choo Vs. A Darling Charlotte Russe Deal!


Espadrilles are perfect for warm weather days.  The natural feel & look of shoes like these make for a chic way to finish off a lightweight summer dress & bangles, a casual day in a sleeveless shirtkhaki shorts, & a shoulder bag, or for a date night in a dolman top & pencil skirt.  What I love most of these two items is the animal print, which is an interesting contrast against fashionable textures like denim, linen, or cotton.  Of course snake & leopard prints are very different & so are the colors in the shoes, but here we have two adorable heels, but the difference in price is in the hundreds of dollars!  One style is a fabulous Jimmy Choo creation that goes for nearly $400 @Neiman Marcus & the other is a super steal @Charlotte Russe for $32.50. What animal prints are you loving this season?  Where are your favorite places to shop for spring deals?  Happy Styling!