1. "I got Alexander Wang for $25!" - Designer "style" is the key word here. Since runway looks can cost upwards of $600 for single pieces, take advantage of guest designers at large (affordable) apparel manufacturers such as Gap and Uniqlo. So, this means I can still say "I got Alexander Wang for $25" but hey, I never said it was one of his runway pieces, or even from this season! What's trendy and what's in matters to an extent, but make those trends your own by mixing in your own pieces, anywhere from Old Navy to Louis Vuitton.
Alexander Wang, Resort 2010 Collection
Alexander Wang for GAP, Design Editions: CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund 2009
As you can see, the motorcycle-themed design is very similar in both pieces, but the Resort 2010 jacket costs $1,200 at Barney's; the GAP jacket retails for $80, but I bought it for a mere $25 on the sale rack.
The khaki color bothering you? Vamp up that blah color with a busy, dark-colored bottom, and perhaps a long sleeved black shirt to show on your lower arms to contrast the light jacket. Don't forget the accessories either: stay with darker tones for Fall/Winter. See? Khaki isn't the end of the world.
2. A good facial is $140 or more. A good chemical peel for those nasty acne scars or discoloration can be more than $400. - First, regular and religious (facial) skin care is most important. SPF is the best thing you can do for any discoloration you may experience on your skin. (Just FYI, I have fair colored, normal to combination skin.)
Aveeno Positively Radiant SPF 15
This SPF 15 daily moisturizer from Aveeno is an affordable, mild lotion you can use every morning before your make-up routine. Go to any drugstore and it will cost you just $12. Compare that to $50 for SPF products from brand names such as Clarins -- this lotion delivers. With regular use, you should see your skin tone even out visibly.
3. Invest in something if it will save you dough in the end. - Meaning, if a product will save you trips to the Dermatologist charging you for every visit, I say buy that product. A biological overnight peel was that product for me.
Kiehl's Overnight Biological Peel
For 1.7 fl oz., it's $42 at your nearest Kiehl's store. Expensive? Maybe a tad, for some, but it's worth it. It exfoliates, renews, and wipes away dead skin cells -- as you sleep. Not only does it deliver all the benefits of a spa facial, you don't have to make that trip to the actual spa! This product is so extremely convenient for the amount of visible difference it makes for your skin. (I saw results just after 2 uses.) Also, the 1.7 fl oz. will last you a good while considering how little you have to spread on your face, just 2-3 times a week.
Don't be afraid of drugstore products, just be wary. Don't be afraid of investing in a product if it'll pay off in the end! Always keep an eye out for guest designers at large stores. Speaking of...
UNIQLO - NY, New York: "+J" 2009 Fall/Winter Collection by JIL SANDER.
Everything including outerwear will all be under $150. The Soho NY store is @ 546 Broadway.
Enjoy! And remember, let's brave the recession in style.
Always,
iStyle
