Over the past 6 months or so, Marshalls stores have been slowing rolling out "store-within-a-store boutiques" called The CUBE, which are basically glorified juniors departments where all the latest contemporary brands are supposed to be housed. If your nearest Marshalls has a CUBE, you'll recognize it by the bright pink signage and different music track that plays within its bounds.
My past trips to the CUBE have been disappointing (at best), but during a recent trip to a CUBE location in Chicago, I was pleasantly surprised to see a CUBE clearance section and just a better selection of clothing overall. I spotted brands like Free People, Guess, DKNY, Jessica Simpson and Kensie Girl, and a lot less Baby Phat and Rocawear (no offense to anyone who wears those brands but Marshalls should not assume that's all teens wear, ya know?).
I ended up buying a cotton plaid shirt-dress ($14.99), two-in-one tank dress ($14.99), striped hooded tank top ($11.99) and a BB Dakota navy blazer ($16.99). My sister bought a Kanye West sunglass case and Forever 21 jeans (yup, F21 at Marshalls) for $7. And my nephew got the cutest Dr. Seuss board game, but that's not fashion related. Anywho, here are some photos I snapped of my loot as well as other awesome items off the racks.
Have you noticed any improvements at the CUBE locations near you? What would you still like to see happen?
BB Dakota piped navy blazer, $16.99. It's made of the softest sweatshirt fabric which makes it a fun casual take on a somewhat austere preppy look.
Soft, thin cotton jersey tank top with a little hood and grommet details along the neckline. Something semi-stylish for hot weather. ($11.99)
I loove this shirtdress, it's so light and breezy and can be worn with skinny jeans, leggings or shorts. Or, belted as a dress if you want that "oops I forgot to wear pants" look. ($14.99)
This 100% linen tunic would make a great beach coverup or top for summer. It had a great "designer" feel to it but was too scratchy against my skin so I passed. ($34.99)
Lovely Max Studio top with pleated detailing around the neckline for something like $19. Had to pass simply because I don't need another black top.
This silk paisley Jessica Simpson dress fit like a glove and reminded me of Gucci Fall '08 but my fellow shopping buddies didn't like it. You know how that goes! ($49.99)
Two-in-one dresses are everywhere. Loves it.
A colorful and unique Free People peasant blouse, $29.99
Guess Jeans striped sundress, $79 down to $20
I spotted a couple cute items by Necessary Objects, a brand carried by Macy's, including this two-tone dress with a paper-bag waist. Had to pass as it was too baggy in back, and a belt just wouldn't look right. ($16.99)
This striped tank dress has an elastic waistband which gives it a great fit (despite my awkward pose). I wore it out the other night with black leggings, my Mossimo Pari heels and my Topshop denim jacket.
Left: Blue Guess Jeans ($15 on clearance); Right: DKNY Jeans ($79 down to $25 on clearance).
Keep your eyes peeled for those red stickers!
Get in on the maxi dress trend for less at the CUBE.
http://www.thebudgetbabe.com/archives/1275-Reader-Tip-Kayden-Utility-Boot-from-Target.html
Good eye!
i need to go and check this out soon