Look for Less: Rebecca Minkoff Satchel

Rachel sent me another great tip (from JCP again too!) this week.


Rebecca Minkoff Morning After Mini Satchel - Nieman Marcus - $550
St. John's Bay 'Alexis' Soft Leather Satchel - JC Penney - $39.00 (Orig. $65.00)

There are definitely some differences. But the overall look and idea is the same.

Is this satchel something you would own? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Spied: Pear Shaped Collar Necklace

So, I am totally on a statement necklace kick lately. The bead shape reminds me of the Stormy Sea Necklace from Anthro in 2009.


Pear Shaped Collar Necklace - Forever 21 - $8.80

What do you think? Is this something you would wear?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Like a Star: Zooey Deschanel for Cotton

It's no great secret that I totally dig pretty much everything about Zooey Deschanel's style. From her blunt cut bangs to her wardrobe overflowing with vintage finds. If you have been reading this blog for some time, you might remember my, uh, obsession with her wardrobe in 500 Days of Summer.

Do you remember the commercials she did for Cotton? Some time has passed but I can't get it off my mind.


I especially loved this combo, as it combines two of my favorite things: cardigans & embellished shoes.


Here are a few pieces inspired by that ensemble.


Patent Peeptoes - Forever 21 - $22.80
Ruffled Button Front Top - Charlotte Russe - $16.00
Grand Dame Brooch Necklace - Forever 21 - $10.80
Crepe Chiffon Trim Cardigan - Forever 21 - $22.80

TOTAL: $72.40

What do you think of Zooey's style? Is this look something you would wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Statement Necklace Styling Tips

After posting about statement necklaces earlier this week, many of you commented that even though you admire the look, you don't know how to wear it. I decided I would give some advice on how to best pull off the style.

Here are a few guidelines {link}:

1. Avoid mixing prints with statement necklaces. Solid tops and dresses in simple silhouettes and neutral shades will ensure that your necklace remains the center of attention.
2. Keep your neckline simple. Complicated necklines will interfere with your jewelry. Scoop, V-neck, and crew-neck styles work best to show off your neck area.
3. Limit other accessories. For example, avoid wearing chunky bangles, long dangling earrings, and trendy hair accessories in order to keep the focus on the necklace.
4. Keep in mind the proportions of the necklace and your body. If you're petite, then a necklace that drapes to your waist can make you look shorter. If you're long-waisted, then opt for a longer style.
5. Keep your hair simple and tamed. This will allow your necklace to take center stage.
6. Remember, it's a statement necklace, so let it do the talking.

Here is an outfit I put together around one of the necklaces from earlier this week.


Flower Statement Necklace - JC Penney - $14.44 (Orig. $34.00) {using coupon code SUR10MAR for an extra 15% off}
Casual Cotton Tee - Forever 21 - $4.50
Flirt Boot-Cut Jeans - Old Navy - $29.50
Faux-Leather Cross-Strap Wedges - Old Navy - $29.50
TOTAL: $77.94

A simple tee and dark rinse boot cut jean make for a great canvas for displaying the beautiful necklace. I added a bit of a punch with the teal platforms that tie into the necklace coloring.

So, what do you think of the tips? Does this look seem like something that you could wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Spied: Flat Jocelyn Sandals

I think (fingers crossed) spring might have actually arrived in Utah. I say this with trepidation because it snowed on Tuesday - and I wore open toe shoes then anyway. I am effectively giving my winter clothes the boot. If I dress like it's spring, spring it shall become. Right?

With spring comes sandals. I have noticed the flat sandals with an enclosed heel at Anthropologie and Urban this season, and have looking for a more reasonable alternative. I was really happy when I stumbled on these:



Jocelynn Sandals - Forever 21 - $14.80 {also available in tan}

What do you think of the look? Is it something you would wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

eShakti Pleated Skirt Review

eShakti is an online store that offers customizable (that's what I said, completely customizable) clothing in an array of sizes and styles. I am sure some of you may have heard about this retailer as they have been making their way through the blogosphere. Recently, their marketing department contacted me and asked if I'd like to do a review of a piece of clothing. I was totally stoked to pick something out, and was pleased I had the option customizing it if necessary. I decided on this skirt:

{worn with Old Navy button-up ($8) Payless coral heels ($7)}Pleated Front Pencil Skirt - courtesy of eShatki - $69.95
When I ordered the skirt, I noticed that the skirt was meant to hit above the knee. I customized the order indicating I wanted the skirt to hit at the knee (and that I was 5'-4" - because even though I am 5'-2", I am way more leg than torso). The customizations turned out perfect!

I am so in love the architectural pleating and pockets. Not to mention the fantastic tulip shape. It's made of black stretch cotton with subtle lurex pinstripes and has a polytaffeta lining. The best part? It's machine washable.

I am pretty sure I will be wearing it almost constantly.



Why I think it's worth shopping eShatki: All styles are available in all sizes {0 - 26W} at all times. All orders {including custom orders} ship within three days, and even custom orders are returnable. New visitors to their site can receive a $15 gift card, just for registering. It's a very customer-friendly store.

Have any of you had any experience with eShakti? Would you be willing to pay a little more for a custom piece of clothing? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

LOFT: 40% off Sale

Yesterday I got any email from the LOFT telling me they were offering an extra 40% off of their sale items:

Here are a few things I would love to add to my closet:


1 - Beaded Circle Tee - $17.99 (Orig. $39.00)
2 - Grosgrain Necklace Tee - $20.99 (Orig. $44.00)
3 - Petal Front Cardigan - $32.99 (Orig. $69.00)

Don't forget to enter SALE40 at checkout for the discount.

What do you think of the picks? Is this sale enticing you enough for a purchase? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Reader Request: Red Dress Styling Tips

I recently got an email request from Erica,

Please help me! I bought the Ruffle Braid dress in Fire Engine from Target and am having trouble figuring out what colors to put with it. I need some sort of cardi to cover up a little. Any suggestions? Thanks!

Red can be an intimidating color. I know I tend to shy away from it because it can dominate my entire look. One great way to tone it down is a cardi in a neutral color. Here is what I came up with:


Dotted Sweater Cardigan - Forever 21 - $19.80
Ballet Flat - American Eagle - $8.89 from $14.95 (Orig. $29.50) {30% off discount is automatically applied to clearance purchases + an extra 15% off with coupon code: 51092661}
Mossimo Ruffle Braid Dress - Target - $24.99
TOTAL: $53.69 (total for Erica - $28.69)

I am playing a bit with the red & blue combos we have seen from Anthropologie this spring.

What do you think of the outfit? Is it something you would wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Look for Less: J.Crew Frances Cami

I can't even tell you how many times I have been asked to find the J.Crew Frances Cami for less. It has been like my holy grail, because until now I have been completely and abysmally unsuccessful. And then yesterday Rachel left this little gift in the comment box.

Dear Rachel, you are a genius.


Silk Frances Cami - J.Crew - $88.00 (Misty Lavender for $69.00)
St. John's Bay Ruffle Neck Top - JC Penney - $19.99 (Orig. $34.00) {available in white and green}

Can you believe that top is from St. John's Bay? I mean, seriously. I can't quite believe all the trendiness seeping out of JCP as of late.

What do you think of the look? Is it something you would wear? How about the look for less? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

JC Penny Statement Necklaces

I was reading gigi's gone shopping this weekend, and she mentioned a 30% off 50% off sale on accessories by Mixit at JC Penney. (She found a few different pieces in store, if you want to see IRL pics, click here.) Also, JC Penney is offering an extra 15% off any order by using coupon code: SUR10MAR.

I found a great selection of statement necklaces. Here are my favorites:


Prices updated to reflect 50% off discount + 15% off coupon code:

1 - Turquoise Stone Necklace - $14.44 (Orig. $34.00)
2 - Pearl/Gold Statement Necklace - $10.19 (Orig. $24.00)
3 - Yellow Statement Necklace - $12.74 (Orig. $30.00)
4 - Ribbon and Gold Chain Necklace - $10.19 (Orig. $24.00)
5 - Flower Statement Necklace - $14.44 (Orig. $34.00) {Reminds me of the Anthro Spring 09 Garish Necklace}
6 - Cream Fabric Flowers Statement Necklace - $12.74 (Orig. $24.00)

Don't forget to enter SUR10MAR at checkout for the extra 15% off!

What do you guys think of these statement necklaces? Is this a look you would wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Survey Wrap Up

{via we heart it}

First, I want to thank each and every one of you that took the survey. Really. Thank you.

I thought I would use this post as a forum to give voice to some of my thoughts resulting from the survey.

As much as I think I can separate myself from Über Chic for Cheap; to rationalize that it is something completely separate from me, just a collection of sales and cute shoes, the truth is, this blog has become a part of me. Very much a part of me. And the things it represents are close to my heart. If you are rolling your eyes, that's okay. I just want you to know that I take this all seriously {and sometimes a little too personally}.

I feel like I must approach this blog with my own aesthetics about style. If you don't share that same sense of style, that's fine, but it is my style. If you really want to see something outside the usual realm, please email me, I am more than happy to take requests.

Also, someone mentioned Google Reader not providing entire posts. I am aware of this, but have no idea how to change the setting.

As for content, I learned that the 'Look for Less' and 'Inspired' posts are among the favorites, so I will definitely continue to post on them regularly. I will also be making an effort to include more shoes, accessories, and outfit posts. Other than that, the tone and content will remain very much the same.

Again, I do really appreciate the feedback. You are all the best community of readers around.

XOXO

Friday Wishlist: Eva Khurshid Zoe Pant

This week I read about a modest fashion forward line called Eva Khurshid at the ELIZA blog. I got excited and then sad and then excited again. The line is truly chic and modest simultaneously. It is, however, way out of my price range. In the end, I decided that I still think its very cool that such fashion forward things are coming from a line whose philosophy is "finding a way to dress fashionably while leaving something to the imagination". Here, here!

So, I saw these pants, and I have a complete and total crush on them:


Zoe Pant - Eva Khurshid - $248

I think that pleating and draping is divine.

What do you all think? What's your fashion dream this week? Leave a comment!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Inspired: Kate Spade {Dotting Around}

Oh Kate Spade, how I love thee! I often go months without looking at the Kate Spade website, because not only can I not afford it, the looks are so cool they are often difficult to recreate. I have only done it once before.

I was actually looking at the Down East Basics clearance section and it sparked the idea that I could recreate this Kate Spade inspiration outfit.

{dress + cardi = $790}
Here are the pieces I think reflect the feel of that outfit:


Spotlight Dress - Down East Basics - $10.00 (Orig. $38.99)
{and if you go in store and find one of these, you can get it for 30% off, yep, for just $7}
Elbow-Length Sleeve Rosette Cardigan - Express - $19.99 (Orig. $49.50)
{Express's clearance section is chock full of major discounts - and lots of pretty cardigans}
Ultra Skinny Leather Belt - Forever 21 - $4.50
Misbehave Women's Extra-3 Wedge - Endless - $20.06

TOTAL: $54.55 <---- do you see that guys? Best to total in quite some time (pats herself on back, haha)

So, what do you think of this little Kate Spade ensemble? Would you wear it? How about the look for less?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Spied: Quarterstrap Jelly Skimmer

Did you guys wear jellies when you were a kid? So many of my young summer days were spent running around and riding bikes in these summery plastic shoes.

Imagine my surprise when I stumbled on jellies for adults at Urban Outfitters. Forget the pink glitter - these are in a modern shape in a few great colors (2 neutral and 1 bright pop).


Quarterstrap Jelly Skimmer - Urban Outfitters - $14.00

I went into UO to "look at" the blazer I put on my wishlist post on Friday. (I say look at, because I went in with the husband and tried it on. He liked it so much, he insisted I get it. That, my friends, is what I call marital bliss.) After, picking up my peplum blazer, I walked past the shoes and was immediately drawn to these. I ended up buying the purple-grey pair, and I totally love them!

What are your thoughts on jellies? What about these? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Reader Request: Denim Trousers

I recently got an email request from Meghan,

Hi Madeline,
I have been searching for denim trousers and I need your help. I know, I know, I am the only person on the planet who doesn't own a pair.... but I think I can get away with wearing them at work, so I am going to try.

I love the Downtown Denim Trousers from J.Crew, and wondered if you could find me a more reasonable priced pair that look like trousers, and not jeans (the pair at BR are way to jean-ie looking).

I am not sure if you have already done a post about these, but if you have the time I certainly would appreciate your help. Love the blog - I read it nearly everyday.
-Meghan


Denim trouser are one of my office wear staples. A few years ago, I happened upon a pair of Express Trousers at Ross, and have never looked back. For those of you not willing to dig for (or able to find) a pair that way, here are a few online:


1 - Premium Herringbone Denim Trouser - Dark - Target - $29.99
2 - Crossdyed Denim Trousers - Charlotte Russe - $24.74 (Orig. $32.99)
3 - RVCA Dri Trouser Denim Pant - Dogfunk.com (hahaha - yep, dogfunk) - $26.69 (Orig. $88.95)

My favorite is definitely #3, even if it's from an online store called Dogfunk.com. What do you guys think about denim trousers? How about the picks? Leave a comment.

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Look for Less: Anthro Free Flow Tank

Some of you may remember my attempting to make the Anthro free flow tank. And let me tell you, it was hard! It looks awesome on the hanger, but I neglected a few things in my planning: a) the shirt I was attaching the ruffles to was stretchy, really stretchy; so when I put the shirt on it loses a lot of oomph b) because I left the edge of the ruffles raw, and the ruffles are stretched out, they roll, a lot. How does J.Crew do it? Their raw knits don't roll?! Does anyone have the secret to this? If so, I would love to hear it.

ANYWAY. I saw this Arden B. top that is very similar in shape to the Anthro one for half the price. And no heartache when your sewing project goes awry.


Free Flow Tank - Anthropologie - $78.00
Tiered Ribbon Waist Top - Arden B. - $39.00

What do you guys think of the Arden B. version? Any sewing tips to impart? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Spied: Nautical Necklace

I know I am posting a lot of nautical inspired things lately, but it's all the rage, and I just can't help myself. I saw this and fell in love with it.

{via a room somewhere}
Nautical Necklace - Brooklyn Rehab on Etsy - $18.00

What do you think of the necklace? How about the nautical trend?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Look for Less: Seychelles All Aboard Wedges

The other day, when I was doing a reader request I stumbled on some beautiful shoes by Seychelles. When I saw these wedges, I realized I had seen something similar at Old Navy.


Seychelles All Aboard Wedges - DSW - $59.95 (Orig. $80)
Women's Peep-Toe Wedges - Old Navy - $24.50

What do you think of the wedges? Is this a look you would wear? How about the look for less?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Reader Request: Bridesmaid Ensemble

I got this email from Paige this week,

Hi there...I saw this outfit for bridesmaids in Martha Stewart Weddings and would love it if I could find some cheaper alternatives. Could you help me? ... Thank you for your help.

Paige


{$569, via Martha Stewart Weddings}
As a side note does anyone else recognize that model as Holly, the winner of Bravo's Make Me a Supermodel? I am such a sucker for modeling competitions.

I think this ensemble is adorable - the shrug, the shoes!

I found a few pieces to echo the feel:


Metallic Satin Shrug - Forever 21 - $15.80
Silk Tricotine Robin Short Dress - J.Crew - $69.99 (Orig. $195.00)
Satin Finish Rhinestone Heel - $24.99
Navy Puff Brooch/Hair Clip (2) - $15.00 x 2 = $30
TOTAL: $140.70

I know it is more than I usually do for an outfit, but it's formal attire and if you take into account the discount on the dress, I think it's a pretty amazing deal.

What do you think of this look? Is it something you would wear or something you would want a bridesmaid to wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Weekend Sale Round-Up

This weekend there are so many good sales going on, I thought I would tell you about all of them:

As I said yesterday, Ann Taylor is offering 40% ANY purchase this weekend. Go here to see my picks. Enter SAVE40 at checkout (the deal is also good in store and at factory outlets!)

AT LOFT is offering 25% off all full priced styles through tomorrow. Available in store and online (just enter STYLE25 at checkout).

American Eagle is offering an extra 30% off Clearance styles and free shipping! They have some really cute beaded tanks, as well as the solid U-Neck tees for a steal. Check it out. Enter 83461705 for 30% off, and the free shipping is good through Sunday.

Charlotte Russe is offering BOGO shorts and crops online and in stores, no code required. I am not sure when the deal expires.

Shade is offering 20% off any single full-priced item this weekend. My pick? The poplin button skirt. Click here for the printout coupon, or enter APR20% for the discount online. The promo ends Saturday.

Down East is offering an extra 30% off in store clearance sections. Make sure to check them out!

Does anyone else know about anything else going on this weekend? If you do leave a comment!

Hope you all have a happy weekend!

Friday Wishlist: Knit Peplum Jacket

I have been thinking about blazers for awhile. And I think I have may found the ultimate solution. A knit blazer! I have heard of these on other blogs, including academichic. I wasn't sold from online pictures, but I tried this little lady on last weekend and I fell in love! None of the limited arm movement, and none of the awkward pulling that usually comes with my petite frame. If only I had snagged it with that 40% Give & Get coupon.


Double-Knit Blazer - $59.50 - Gap

In my extensive searching for knit blazers, I stumbled on this amazing one from Urban Outfitters. I don't buy things full price, but I think I might have to have this. Like really.


Kimchi Blue Knit Peplum Jacket - $48.00 - Urban Outfitters

What do you guys think? Any of you have a knit blazer? Leave your thoughts below.

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

40% Off All Purchases at Ann Taylor!

Today I received new of an incredible promotion over at Ann Taylor. They are offering 40% off all purchases (sale or full-priced, available in store or online). This never happens, seriously:


Here's a few beautiful things I wouldn't mind taking home:


1 - Shiny Pleat Shoulder Top - $22.80 (Orig. $38)
2 - Sequin Stripe Tee - $22.80 (Orig. $38)
3 - Grosgrain Flower Tee - $26.40 (Orig. $44)
4 - Bow Front Cardigan - $34.80 (Orig. $58)

Are you guys as stoked about this sale as I am? What do you think of the picks? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Reader Request: Louboutin Booties for Less

I got this email from Lizney this week,

I have a favor to ask of you. I’ve fallen head over heels in love with these Louboutin’s but can’t/don’t have the $$$ to spend on them!!! I’m sick lusting them though and I though that maybe you can help me find something similar for around $50-60. Crossing fingers as I can already feel them on my feet! They are ooohhhh so very cute! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!!!!

This one took some major digging, and I still didn't quite hit the price mark she was looking for, but I think I found a pretty comparable match (and at a heel height that one might actually be able to walk in, hehe):

Meree Lace-Up Bootie - Christian Louboutin (via Nieman Marcus) - $1095
Seychelles' Dorothy - Shoes.com - $80 (Orig. $100) {use coupon code MSAVE for the 20% discount + you get free shipping)

If you are looking for a more reasonable alternative for cut out oxford booties, I found a few under $30:


1 - Betty Oxford Pump - Forever 21 - $24.80
2 - Cut-Out Booties - Forever 21 - $24.80
3 - Velika Peep-Toe Pumps - Target - $29.99
4 - Open Toe Oxford Pumps - Forever 21 - $25.80

What do you guys think of this look? Is it something you would wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!