Budget Fashion

J. Crew's pricey but oh-so-pretty metallic bouclé houndstooth Clea jacket, $295
In addition to your basic black, gray and navy blazer, one amazing statement jacket in a rich, textured fabric or beautiful color - perhaps something with gorgeous buttons or trim - is the ideal way to stretch your work-wardrobe budget. It's a piece that will help you project a professional, polished and competent image while still maintaining a sense of your own personal style. Spend a little more on a jacket with a great fit and quality fabric, and you can wear it more than once a week and still look smart.

I recall a previous manager of mine who had a fabulous brocade blazer with a faux-fur trim in a rich tan color (it was way more subdued than it sounds, trust me), and even though she wore it all the time, she always looked perfectly chic. And, she could command everyone's attention whenever she walked into a room. (That jacket held the key to her power, I'm convinced of it.) Here, some options to help you dress for success...



Celery Tweed Jacket at Anthropologie.com, $158


MICHAEL Michael Kors Kimono-Sleeve Belted Jacket at Macys.com, $159.50


REQ Tweed Jacket at Sears.com, Was $64 Now $37.99


Diane Von Furstenberg wool 'Basia' zip jacket at Bluefly.com, $279.00


Garland Boucle Jacket at Express.com, $118.00

Above right: Shrunken flannel shirt at Urban Outfitters, $48
The plaid shirt is a must-have for fall, and I think Elle Macpherson does a nice job of showing us exactly how to wear this tartan trend: Layer it over a fitted tee, pair it with a statement-making belt, and turn up the cuffs on those jeans of yours to show off some smashing, high-heeled boots. Elle's oversized black shades and purse lend a touch of glamour for a sort of grunge-meets-uptown chic.

Did I mention EVERY single store known to man has plaid shirts these days? Here are a few of my favorites to help you get started...

[1] Buffalo plaid shirt at Newport-News.com, $14
[2] Embroidered Rose Plaid Shirt at Forever21.com, $24.80
[3] Camden Tartan Shirt at L.L.Bean, $39.50
[4] Angie Belted Plaid Shirt at Macy's, Was $38 Now $26.60
[5] Highland Check shirt at Topshop.com, $55
[6] Kimchi Blue Pintuck Plaid Shirt at UrbanOutfitters.com, $58
[7] Plaid shirt at VictoriasSecret.com, $58
[8] Long sleeve flannel shirt at Land's End, $24.80

The full look at Jonathan Saunders for Target is now available, and my excitement level is building as I count down the days until its release on October 5th in stores. Prices range from $14.99–$59.99. I'm a tad dizzy after downloading all 21 looks, so if you have questions about a particular piece, hit me in the comments. And keep reading to see all the looks.

I want to own most of the pieces in Phillip Lim's Fall 2008 collection, and maybe, just MAYBE, I will end up buying a piece or two months from now on mad sale - because I can truly see myself treasuring his clothes for years to come - but in the meantime, I must settle for imitating his style, on a budget.

In this look, Lim combines a few updated classics in a way that's mature without being too severe. I found affordable options to recreate this ensemble but I would recommend buying the best possible pieces you can afford if you like this look. A gray blazer, denim pencil skirt, and black leather boots will last for seasons to come. You can swap out just about any tee, belt, bag, scarf and tights. However, make sure they interact visually. Lim's purple scarf and red clutch really add an element of interest and it's those two colors which, when combined, make a big impact overall.

Tee: Cheap Monday Tina Tee in Black at RevolveClothing.com, $20
Blazer: Urban Renewal Vintage Ladies Blazer at UrbanOutfitters.com, $48
Scarf: Simply Vera Waffle Weave Ribbed Scarf at Kohls.com, $24
Belt: Madisson Croc Belt at Forever21.com, $8.80
Skirt: Bisou Bisou Dark Denim Pencil Skirt at JCPenney.com, $17.99
Boots: Mossimo "Kat" Tall Boots at Target.com, $34.99

T-bags is a popular L.A.-based brand that I usually associate with artsy patterns, bold solids and willowy silhouettes. Their pieces are on-trend without being overly trendy, feminine without too many frills... although, they do frills and embellishments quite nicely, in a sort of smart, modern way.

I love this T-bags Jemma Pleated Top (above left) because it's playful and has a cool DIY-vibe with the detail along the neckline. At the same time, it's not too fussy, and you could dress this top up or down. While browsing Forever 21's website, I came across a similar top that has a completely different feel because the bright hue is vastly different than the subdued color of the T-bags top, but that pleated ruffle neckline? C'mon. Gotta be a knock-off. At least they changed the color, right?

Left: T-bags Jemma Floral Top at standardstyle.com, $145
Right: Pleated Satin Trim Top at Forever21.com, $19.80

During a recent trip to the city, I spotted a stylish woman sporting a leaf print tunic from Forever 21. How did I know it was from Forever 21, you ask? Let's just say I know waaay too much about that store's inventory, plus, I had featured that very same tunic on ze blog only a few months earlier. It was etched in my mind, and I recognized it the instant I saw it. Naturally, I followed the unknowing fashionista and discreetly snapped the photo you see above (I'm not a stalker, I swear!) to share with all of you.

Some style notes I gleaned: First, this photo is evidence that women of all ages shop at F21, a budget retailer which is primarily targeted at the junior market. Second, mixing high with low is the way to go (note the Louis Vuitton purse in her left hand). Finally, dark-wash boot leg jeans are the perfect mate for long tunic tops - you certainly don't have to go the legging route. I also think this New Yorker's look would be great for fall or an air conditioned office if she paired it with a snug cardigan or fitted jacket. My only complaint is the visible bra strap, but we'll let it slide since her top is a steal at just $10.99.

Get the look: Leaf Print Tunic at Forever21.com (Also available in red/cream), Was $22.80 Now $10.99

First, some bad news: Topshop, the popular British high street fashion chain, has delayed the opening of their New York City store until late November. Boo.

Now, the good news: Topshop.com has recently launched a dedicated US site, which means all prices will be in dollars and all measurements will be US-friendly. For a limited time, you can also bypass the ghastly $15 flat rate shipping fee and get free shipping with code USFREEPOSTAGETS01. Still not satisfied? They'll throw in a Kate Moss Charity tee free with your purchase. Plus, you can enter for your chance to win a $750 shopping spree.

All of this, at Topshop.com USA. The prices aren't cheap by any means but Topshop has cornered the cool corner of the market and you simply won't find the duds they've got anywhere else. Some good values we spotted: A pocket-cardi in purple for $30, a Burberry-esque belted funnel neck coat for $170, and these gray leather slouch boots for $145.

Click here to get shoppin' ... and if you do buy something, please share details in the comments (cuz I'm holding out for the NY store!)