Chic of the Week: Boots, Dresses, Jackets & Jewelry

Grommets, spikes, buckles, and straps have been a staple in this year's style winter style. 

This week, there are so many chic pieces to be featured, but to me, this is the best deal of all featured this week!  While shopping in NYC with my mom this past September, I spotted these and fell in love.  I soon fell out of love when I looked at the tag, $89.99.  I mean, they're not made with Sworski grommets or anything and the leather is faux!  When shopping, I am always conscious of the price vs. wear.  Although these boots are adorable and I could 'see' multiple outfits complete with them I couldn't justify the cost vs. my wear reality.  The brand-boot is from INC, featured at Macy's, but see below for an even better bargain boot!

I featured this online retailer earlier this week in my Hunter-Hype vs. Bargain Boot blog post, and while I did find this retailer to have quality items for a bargain's price, I am had to feature these boots on this week's Chic of the Week post!

Shiekh Black & Brown Gold Grommet Short Boot

$11.94

[shop here]

**Brown - all sizes available.  Black - sizes 5-8.5 available.**

Better buy because….

* These look so expensive and would be a statement piece for any type of outfit.  Pair them with skinny jeans and a plain black sweater, leggings, or a black sweater dress and some long necklaces.**

Go Jane Quilted Low-Rise Boots

$28.91

[shop here]

**Almost all sizes available in each color**

Better buy because….

**Even though these are faux leather, you're fooled by the quilting which makes them look chic and expensive.  I have a pair of boots from this online retailer and I have them almost every week in the fall/winter for two years.  I paid $40.00 and have gotten much more than my investment out of them!  The Stone color is my fav because it looks so warn and rugged.**  

Remember, you may not be able to get much more wear out of the short boots during this winter season, but buy for next year!  They'll still be chic then too!

Gold Toed Leopard Flat

$19.99

[shop here]

Better buy because….

*With the two-tone (leopard + shiny gold), you'll get a lot more wear out of these flats.  Because of the gold accent, they could be paired with anything cream, gold, chestnut, or black, and red because of the leopard.*

Tidebuy Stylish Swallow Trail Maxi Dress

$19.99

[shop here]

Better buy because….

*I shop a lot.  From boutiques, pageant shops, discount retailers, and thrift stores, and to me, this dress looks expensive and could be paired with many things!  It looks like the train would still be long enough for the 6" woman, or the 5'4 with platform heels.  You could wear this to a wedding, out with your girlfriends, on a date, or even pair it with a jacket and boots and get multi-season wear out of it!*

Bombshell Geo Sweater Dress

$29.80

[shop here]

**Only available in size Small.**

Better buy because…..

*This tribal, geo pattern has been huge this year and it's here to stay for this spring season too!  This dress reminds me of something Victoria Beckham would wear and if you don't follow her clothing line, it's very expensive.  If I were a size small, I would be snatching this up because it too can be worn in multiple season if you just pair it with the right sweater, blazer, boots, or pumps.*

 

Forever 21 Jewelry

Clear Cross Bracelet - $5.99

[shop here]

3 Strand Cross Necklace - $2.99

[shop here]

Better buy because….

*These are cool, cool items!*

Forever 21 Cape Jacket

$32.99

[shop here]

Better buy because….

*This piece screams chic!  Can't you see it walking down the NYC runway?  I sure can!  Pair it with an outfit similar to the one pictured, or with a pencil skirt and boots!*

Pair your cape with these long gloves

$7.53

[shop here]

Better buy because….

*They won't be this price next year when you really need them!  And, they would be great paired with the cape, or any other outerwear jacket.*

Windsor Charcol Tweed Faux Leather Bomber Jacket

$34.00

[shop here]

Better buy because….

*This jacket could be paired with so many things.  Replicate the look above, pair it with leather pants, a pleated skirt, pencil skirt, boots, or pumps.   With the variation in color - grey & black - you'll be able to pair it with much more than if it was a solid color.  Also, the fact that it has the tweed paired with it and faux leather sleeves makes it look more expensive and chic~*

As always…..

"There are tons of deals and steals out there, you just have to know where to shop!  

And if you don't, message me!"

Country Look with a little Bling

This year, there's a trend emerged that I like to call "Blingin' Grandpa."  

It also could be referred to as Blingin' J.Crew…or, really whatever you would like to call it, but I'm digging it!

This is look [J.Crew, Gap, Ann Taylor] is not my normal style, so I wasn't comfortable investing a lot of money into items just for one look, but I really, really liked it and wanted to see if I could recreate.

My first stop was our local Goodwill, where I was able to score this plaid button-down from the men's section.  

I already had the vest, jeans, necklace and boots.

I really wanted my "Blingin' Grandpa" look to be cozy, so opting for an oversized shirt from the men's section completed my vision!  For me, this outfit is just enough 'me' with the bling, but I could still hang with Jimmy and his other farm buddies without looking totally over-the-top and out of place.  

Shirt:  

Mine (Goodwill w/no label) - $3.29

label replica here, bargain replica here

Replica options are women's cut tops.  If you're wanting something more comfy looking, opt for a men's button-down.

Vest:  

Athletic Works from Walmart (have had for years)

$34.99 replica, $25.00 replica in Tall

Jeans:  

iJeans by Buffalo - paid $4.00 in store

buy here

Boots:  

BCBG Generation Croc Embossed Knee-High (old)

replica here, replica here, replica here, true replica here, true replica here 

If you're looking closely at the photos and wondering what I have in my hand or why it looks like I'm pointing at the camera, I am.  This was my first time to try out my tripod and SLR Nikon Wireless Remote and, yes, I have a long ways to go before my selfies look natural :)

This shirt was also from our local Goodwill, but is a JCP Worthington.  

replica here

"See you really can look divine on a dime!"

Goodwill Goddess: Biker Chic

Channeling my inner biker-babe!

Take each ends of your pashmina scarf

Criss-cross each end and pull down!

Shirt - Goodwill Men's Section - $3.29

Leggings - H&M

Tunic Undershirt - Goodwill

Scarf - Kohls - shop here 

Studded Combat Boots - Charlotte Russe - $20.00

similar here, similar here

Hunter-Hype vs. Bargain Boot {Exact Replica}

During this fall/winter fashion season the European Hunter Boots have emerged.  

Really, they're just the new Ugg boot, but for rain.  

They're all over the fashion blogs, Instagram, and being touted about in almost every fashion magazine.

Trends something that will rise and then fade.  And if it has a label on it, you're only paying for the label, not for the style.  I've learned to taylor my closet after fun, feel-good, and classic attire that won't ever go out of style, but as my social newsfeeds were blowing up with picture of ladies paring the Hunter rain boots with career wear and Saturday attire, I started to covet and want a pair for myself. 

In my mind, I was paring these boots (navy in color) with various outfits in my closet that I felt weren't 'complete' without them, but these boots run at a minimum of $140 (+ tax & shipping) for women's sizes, so for me, they were going to require a real justification of use. 

Once I pulled out those outfits, put them on, and put my computer with a blown up picture of the boots down by my feet [yes, laugh - I did this] all the outfits I pulled out were casual and my week is generally not filled with casual attire.  If I'm going to a deposition, I am dressed to the nines.  Not because I have to be [yes, I need to represent a professional look], but because I love utilizing my closet…and I'm not sure the suit-wearing lawyers would take me seriously if I walked into a deposition in rain boots. When I am not out taking down a deposition, I am home working on a transcript, or at the farm with my husband and I wouldn't dare risk stepping in cow crud after laying down that kind of cash.  Water hose or not, my $15.00 Gabes leopard print boots will do!  

Feeling the reality of the cost, matched with the minimal wear opportunities, I just knew I could find a replica somewhere and I did!

{read to the bottom for shipping/coupon codes}

Bargain Brand:  Shiekh Shoes - click here - $26.99

Hunter Wellington Boots - original site/click here - $140.00

{Available in Grey, Black & Navy}

The only difference is the bargain brand doesn't have the Hunter label!

I personally have not tried on the Hunter Boot brand, but I hear they run really big.  If you think they're true to size, they're more than likely not…plus, they only come in whole sizes.  I wear a 9.5 in women's shoes and I purchased a 9 - which fit perfectly - in the bargain boot.  It is a wider boot, so you'll want to go down at least a 1/2 size from what you normally wear because of the width.  

I really, really wanted the 'glossy' look and the bargain boot is more of a matte boot.  

I did find the pair with chain embelisments on the same site, though.  

I will warn you, if you order these, ORDER TRUE TO SIZE.   

I ordered these too to see if I like them better than the Hunter replicas and I should have gotten a 10, rather than a 9, because they are very narrow.

I'm just sticking with the Hunter replicas and sending these back…although they are a great deal!

Hunter Wellington Glossy Boot - click here - $140.00

Shiekh Chain Bargain Boot - click here - $14.99

And, while I was browsing the site, I found these adorable little flats and had to have them!

I mean, I can't 'crown around the farm' in them, but for $12.00, you can't beat it! :)

Crown Flat - runs try to size/click here - $11.96

Things to know about rain boots before buying!

• Impressed by the bargain brand?  Before checking out make sure you check out their sale section, especially if you're looking for a TOMS replica shoe!  Then, add SHOES10 to the Promo Code section of your checkout to receive 10% off of your order.  If that doesn't work, try SPRING10.  Order $75.00+ worth of items from the site, you'll automatically receive free shipping! 
• If you're a size 7 women's you can actually wear a children's size 5 in the Hunter Boots.  You'll save $60.00 going that route, but be forewarned, they will probably hit at your mid-calf if you go the kids route!

• Along with the Hunter-hype, there's Hunter Welly socks.  These are just socks that you wear with and fold over your Hunter boots to keep the label visible.  They've just sewn the label into the sock.  Like the boots, they're outrageously priced, and you can get a variety of styles here on eBay for $19.00 vs. $50.00 for a pair of SOCKS!  UK & US Sizes are both offered through this eBay retailer.  
• For a budget babe, just go to your local thrift store, purchase a sweater, and cut the sleeves off.  They will serve as great knitted socks and add a stylish appearance to your bargain, or label boot look!
• Bargain brands or label brand rain boots will develop a 'worn' scuffed look.  You can get an expensive Hunter Boot Buffer Spray, or use Armor All Wipes or olive oil as cheap substitutes to keep your boots look squeaky clean!
• If you think these boots are going to keep your toesies warm like Uggs do, think again!  You're paying for the look and the label, not the warmth :)

Chic of the Week: Spiegel Feature

Every Friday, I am going to be posting a "Chic of the Week" which will detail online deals that I have found that are so chic, but are so cheap!  

If you're a new follower, have followed me before, or are a friend/acquaintance reading today, you'll soon realize that I love the Lord with all my heart, my husband second, our families third, but a great deal will always fall fourth!

Let's see which stores, designers, and discounts were featured in this week's

Chic of the Week

This week, I'm going to be featuring Spiegel.  

My plan is not to feature one brand or store in this weekly posting, but when browsing for deals and steals, I couldn't believe the quantity of quality items Spiegel currently has discounted!  

If you find something you like, always check for discounts or free shipping at RetailMeNot.com

Order on or before President's Day, Monday, February 17th for some extra deals!  This coupon is good from 2/10-2-17.

XXWLM6Q5 - COUPON FOR $10.00 OFF $50.00 OR MORE

Spiegel Madeline Coat by Newport News

Price:  $44.00 from $109.00

Size:  2-16 in both colors pictured

This coat would be perfect with winter white pants and gold or taupe heels, a black pencil skirt or sheath dress, or as pictured in the black on black & gold.  The look of the quality would be comparable to a Chanel timeless piece. 

Spiegel Deco Dress

Price:  $24.00 from $114.00

Size:  Black [2-16], Blue [8,10,14]

I can't believe this dress is $24.00!  It looks like it should be $300.00 and sold in some designer store or fancy boutique.  The blue is especially eye-catching!  Don't miss out on this deal...especially you pageant girls!  This would be a great interview dress, presentation dress, appearance dress, etc.

Spiegel Isabella Dress

Price:  $24.00 from $99.00

Size:  2-16 in both colors

Same thing as above!  This would be a great interview, appearance, presentation, work, church dress.  It's flirty and cute for a great price!

Spiegel Rebecca Tunic by Newport News

Price:  $19.00 from $134.00

Size:  XS-2X [Black], S-M [White]

Wow!  What a deal!  

This is also a timeless couture piece that would look great with jeans, dress pants, or belted with a skirt.  

Spiegel Peplum Hannah Top

Price:  $19.00 from $74.00

Size:  2-16 in all colors

Again, I just can't believe these prices for the quality!  

I've never seen a Spiegel item that wasn't made from high-quality fabrics.  This piece would be chic and wearable season after season.  The fabric is perfect for cold water washing at home too!

Spiegel Natalie Top by Newport News

Pricing:  $19.00 from $64.00

Size:  2-4 [Black & Purple], 4-16 [Red]

Pair either of these style tops above with this skirt below and create a complete look!

Spiegel Lauren Skirt by Newport News

Price:  $24.00 from $44.00

Size:  2-24W in both colors

Timeless pattern, durable quality, can't lose!

Spiegel Jasmine Jumpsuit 

Price:  $24.00 from $174.00

Size:  2-16 in all three colors

This would be perfect for a summer wedding and different from other items that may be worn, but still appropriate!  And, you can't beat the cost!

Spiegel Cateye Vintage Sunglasses 

Price: $5.06 - $10.00

11 different pairs available

Cateye in both prescription frames and sunglasses are the 'in' style now for women!  Make sure you score with this deal because sunglasses is one of those things that you truly can wear year round!

Spiegel Vintage Round Thick Horn Style Sunglasses

Price: $2.50 - $10.00

Tortoise color available too.

ASOS Bow Gloves

Price:  $4.88

These gloves are adorable!  They remind me of the 'old days' where ladies wore short gloves with lace dresses.  Pair these gloves with the lace dress above!  Even if you don't wear them this year, get them for next at this rock bottom price!

Note:  No, I am not getting paid to do this feature for Spiegel, but as always, if they would like to pay up for the advertisement, I wouldn't turn them away!  Spiegel, if you read this and would like to do a partnership, or advertise here, I would gladly promote your well-made, unique, chic pieces!