Designer Looks for Less

The line between what's hot and what's a hot mess can often be hazy what with all the tempting trends out there. I've made one too many fashion blunders because of this, and so I've decided to do a new installment here on The Babe that allows you, the reader, to help me make that distinction: Fierce or tranny?

Let's start with these super sexy Jimmy Choo "Elipse" cracked-gold leather sandals (at left). My vote: Undeniably fierce. The price ($695), not so much, which led me to search for a budget-friendly version (at right): The "Diem" platform sandal from Bakers. It's got the cracked gold leather look, the tall stiletto heel and the slight platform - but does the "Diem" hold the same allure as the Jimmy Choos...or does it scream dancer at The Baton?

Give it to me straight, ladies: Are these shoes fierce or tranny? (Please note that I use the word lovingly. But it's not the look I'm going for.)

I have a confession to make: I do not watch Gossip Girl. I know I should tune-in for the fashion alone but somehow the planets have never quite aligned in such a way that made me catch the popular teen drama. But that doesn't mean I can't admire Leighton Meester's fashion sense - both on and off the show. While Leighton's character, Blair Waldorf, is known for her eccentric, fashion-forward looks, the real-life star proves she can turn heads in something as simple and refined as a little black dress. This particular number, which she wore at the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2 premiere, strikes me as especially flattering, and the shoes are drop-dead gorgeous. She's adorable, and her style is worth copying.

Are you a Leighton Meester fan? Do you love her look?

[1] Heart Petal Ring at Forever21.com, $4.80
[2] ASOS Halter Neck Prom Dress, $69.22
[3] Jill Stuart Kasia Ankle Wrap Platform Sandal at Shopbop.com, Was $468.00 Now $140.40