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Chic for Cheap: A Room Inspired Look

Good morning lovelies!  Melissa and I had the chance to sit side by side while creating our Chic for Cheap posts for today...a blast and a total dream come true for me!  You can see her outfit right here.

My translation from outfit to room is a bit arbitrary this time around, but I like imagine this outfit being worn on a summer day spent browsing through books at the library, followed by a trip to the local sweets shop for a cup of coconut and macadamia nut gelato.  Yummers!  xox Ez

• Inspirational Room ~ House to Home

• Arielle Girlfriend Cardigan ~ Delias
• Embellished V-neck Tee ~ American Eagle
• Bead End Linen Shorts ~ Forever 21
• Classic Readers Glasses ~ Forever 21
• Converse Chevron Shoes ~ Delias
• Animal Wheel Totes ~ Xenotees

Chic for Cheap: Wedding Guest (full-figure edition)

Today's Chic for Cheap post comes at the request of CC reader Molly.  She will soon be attending a wedding with her husband and is struggling to find something affordable, fetching and figure flattering.  Here's how Molly describes her challenge:

"I especially love your Chic for Cheap posts, but as much as I love them I can rarely wear any of the looks because I'm a plus sized girl...I usually wear about a size 18. I'm sure I'm not the only one out there, so I thought I'd email you with my latest wardrobe dilemma.
My specific problem is that I'm going to an outdoor wedding in a few weeks.  My husband will be the best man, so I'll be standing next to him all day (he'll be wearing a tux) and I don't want to look too informal. July in Maryland is hot and humid, so I'd like to be in something lightweight and airy. Because of my own self-image, I'm not keen on showing a lot of leg (i.e. above the knee...I like to think I have nice legs from the knee down though!) or my upper arms. And a great deal of the wedding and reception will be on grass, so wedge heels that won't sink into the dirt are a big plus. I am totally open to lots of color and/or pattern, I'm an art teacher and don't mind looking the part!"

For Molly's outfit I decided to show two colors of the same dress since both are equally lovely, but one might appeal to her more than the other (they are available up through size 18).  The accessories would go beautifully with either dress and since the dress is sleeveless I picked out a little white scarf that can be draped across her shoulders and upper arms to cover that area while still allowing her breath in all that heat and humidity.  Finally the shoes (the hardest part for me to find this time around) are wedges (perfect for the grass) and have a slight metallic sheen to them (which makes them just dressy enough to get away with).  I hope this is of some help to you Molly.  Have a great time at the wedding!  Don't forget to check out Melissa's outfit on her blog right here.  xox Ez

• Beaded Georgette Dress (in Deep Seafoam or Forest Green)  ~ Newport-News
• Marisella Dangling Earrings ~ Forever 21
• Fringed Gauze Scarf ~ Old Navy
• Set of 2 Bangles ~ NYLightMetals
• Metallic Elizabeth Slingback Wedges ~ Target

Looking for more Chic for Cheap inspiration... see all the past outfits right here.

Chic for Cheap: Inspired by Art on Etsy

After finding this wonderful print on etsy the other day I just knew that it was begging to be translated into an outfit for Chic for Cheap.  I didn't want to go too literal (matching my outfit to the girl in the painting) so I tried to think outside the box just a bit.  I imagine this look being perfect for an early evening date...followed by some star gazing of course (here's hoping the stars will be a tad more friendly).

My friend Melissa has put together a Chic for Cheap outfit too...you can see it on her blog: Melissa Loves.

• The Stars Are Against Me Tonight print ~ dkim art

• Priti Natural Nail Polish  in St. Catherine's Lace ~ Spirit Beauty Lounge
• Black Chic Earrings ~ Triz Designs
• Navy Vintage Embroidered Indian Dress ~ Whimsyville
• Fortune Bracelet Set ~ Forever 21
• 'Classy' Sandals in Latte by Nicole Miller ~ JCPenney

Looking for some more Chic for Cheap inspiration?  See all the past looks I've put together right here.
xoxo Ez

Chic for Cheap: An Art Inspired Look

Of all the Chic for Cheap challenges that Melissa and I put together...I tend to have the most fun with the looks inspired by art.  I really like the way this one came together and the subtle ways the outfit mirrors the lovely art by Mati Rose.  To see what Melissa has put together, visit her on her blog Melissa Loves. 

xox Ez

Art inspiration: Feather Power by Mati Rose (aka Suspect Shoppe)

• Sunglasses ~ Forever 21
• Sunrise Crochet Top ~ Ruche
• Five Little Feathers Necklace ~ Leoravon
• Black Paperbag Waist Shorts ~ Target (I own these and they are awesome)
• Decree® Gemini Sandals ~ JCPenney

Chic for Cheap: A $50 (or less) Office Makeover

I loved the Chic for Cheap challenge that reader Lindsey gave to us this week.  She has recently taken on a new job and wants to jazz up her workspace, but painting or drastic changes to the room are out of the question...that and she wants to spend no more than $50!  This truly was a challenge and forced me to try to think outside the box a bit...especially when it came to bringing color into the room.  Here my ideas are for a chic updated space...with only $27.00 out of pocket!

• Use pretty paper to line desk drawers and add some much needed color to your work area (keep paper in place with double sided tape) or use it to dress up the covers of plain plastic binders ~ Gift Wrap from Parkside Papers
• Flowers on your desk are an instant pick me up and you can change them as frequently as you'd like.  Before you run out and buy some though, take a look around where you live and see if there are any blooms that are free for you to clip and enjoy.  During the Fall, look for pretty leaves and in the winter; decorative branches, pine cones or fir branches  ~ Floral inspiration by Something to See
• Download and print decorative labels to keep your files, books, and such organized.  Visit the following links for some great free printable labels:  Oval Labels (by me)  |  Rectangular Labels (by me)  | Pretty Rectangular Labels from i-DiY (found via Yellow Goat)
• It's important to surround yourself with things that make you happy.  I have these pencils on my desk and they never fail to bring a smile to my face.  You might find some other little affordable detail that means something to you. ~ pencils by Simplesong
• A vintage milk glass container can serve as both a pencil cup and a vase.  Smaller vintage containers could be used to organize paperclips, pushpins and such. ~ vintage milk glass from Adventures in White.
• Keep your files in order with this great vintage wire basket ~ from 26 Olive Street

I hope this has given you some ideas for your space Lindsey.  Be sure to check out Melissa's room ideas right here.  And if you want to see a fabulous office makeover for $0...visit Suzanne's lovely blog!
xox Ez

Chic for Cheap: Inspired by a Flickr Photo

 The Inspiration (by Jessica E.)

Hello lovelies...it's chic for cheap time!  Today's look was inspired by one my my favorites on flickr.  I so wish that those storage drawers were mine...don't you just love them?!

I first started my outfit with the linen pants, because I just purchased this exact pair over the weekend and I'm a bit obsessed.  Everything else was selected with comfort in mind (hopefully without sacrificing style).  I envision wearing this outfit out to brunch with the girls or for a fun day of window shopping.

Don't forget to check out Melissa's look right here.

• Pleated Henley - Old Navy
• Kirstie Striped Scarf - Delias
• Drawstring Linen-blend Pants - Gap
• Chantel Button Hobo Bag - Delias
• Sleek Leather Flip-flops - Gap

xox Ez

Chic for Cheap: Graduation from Med School

Today Melissa and I had a special request to put together a sophisticated look for a lovely reader, who will soon be graduating from medical school.  Here's how Kim describes her outfit needs: "I need something for graduation, but not just any graduation.  I'm finally finishing medical training after a combination of 15 years of undergrad, med school, a masters degree, general residency & subspecialty fellowship.  Graduation is a dinner and then awards ceremony.  I'd like to wear something sophisticated, but a little eccentric (& since I'm currently still making a training salary, it can't be too pricey)."

When putting together my outfit I tried to focus on classy pieces that could be worn over and over again for many different occasions (this is the best way to stretch a budget)... and chose the pretty salmon pink to fill in as the "eccentric" flair that Kim was hoping for. 

Congratulations Kim!  Enjoy your graduation immensely... you deserve it!  Don't forget to check out Melissa's look right here.  xox Ez

• Draped Top - Banana Republic
• Merino Crosshatch Cardigan - J.Crew
• High-waisted Pique Pencil Skirt - Banana Republic
• Briana Earrings - Armelle
• Verity Platform Pumps - Target

Guest Post on Melissa Loves

Hi everyone!  For some reason when I woke up this morning, all the posts that I'd prepared for today were gone.  So now while I scramble to try and piece them back together, I wanted to direct you over to Melissa's lovely blog where I wrote a guest post for her last Friday.  I know...it's cheating to be posting something from last week, but hopefully you won't mind too much.
Head on over to Melissa Loves to see all the attributing links to my "inspiration board."  xox Ez

Chic for Cheap: A Real Room Inspired Look

Melissa and I usually use the same theme for our Chic for Cheap post, but this week we've each put together looks using our own inspirations.  Pop on over to Melissa Loves to see what she dreamed up.

I decided to base my outfit off of a real room this time around.  My inspiration came from Marichelle's lovely home.  I just adore the little buntings that she made for her walls, and she even has a couple left in her shop if you are interested. 

{GET IT}

• Mini Disk Bead Necklace - Forever 21
• Ruffled Pinstripe Shirt - Forever 21
• Perfect Khaki Pencil Skirt - Old Navy
• Betty-ky Bag in black - Jujie
• "Josh" Pumps - Endless
• Adele Floral Center Ring - Forever 21

Chic for Cheap: Summer Looks for a New Mom

Hello lovelies.  Today's chic for cheap request comes from a reader who is a new mom with some specific needs for her summer wear.  Even though her guidelines may not be the same as yours or mine, I'm hoping the pieces I chose could easily be worn by any of us (that's my intent at least).  Let's find out a little bit more about what Erin's looking for:

"I'm hoping you can help me with finding some great options for summer.  Here's my issue: I love wearing dresses in summer - love the ease, the comfort, and the way a dress instantly makes you look put together.  The problem is that this summer I am nursing a baby, and am having a difficult time finding dresses that can accommodate this.  I don't want to buy specially designed nursing dresses - so I need something that has either a very stretchy neckline or buttons up.  Any thoughts?"

Since a dress is nearly a whole look in just one piece, I decided to go for two different looks (both can be mixed and matched).  And for two complete outfits that can then be accessorized to create additional looks, I think the price tag is pretty fabulous, don't you?!  Don't forget to check out Melissa's look right here.  xox Ez

• Deep Harbor Blue Dress - Ruche
• Interlocked Thin Bangle Set - Forever 21
• Anita Sleeveless Woven Dress (also available in white and black) - Forever 21
• Tobbyn Sandals - Target
• Triple Handle Tote in Bone - Target (much more stylish than a standard diaper bag)
• Lion Sandals in Gold - Target

Happy Birthday Melissa

Hello lovelies!  Today is a very special day.  My dear friend Melissa is celebrating her birthday AND she has just relaunched her blog (Melissa Loves) on her own URL.  I'm so excited for her!  Head on over to her new blog home, wish her a happy birthday, and don't forget to add her to your feed reader while you're there.  : )

Congratulation on your new blog Melissa and happy happy birthday to you!  You inspire me every day.  I am so lucky to have you in my life.  xox Ez

Chic for Cheap: An Art Inspired Look

Melissa and I decided to go for another round of chic for cheap inspired by art found on etsy.  You'd think it would be easy, but there are so many great art pieces to choose from, it was almost impossible for me to make up my mind.  In the end I ended up being really inspired by the lush colors of Jennifer Davis' piece... I just love how Spring-like it appears to be.

Don't forget to check out Melissa's art inspired look right here.

• Dingo Original Painting - Jennifer Davis
• One-of-a-kind Braided Bow Print Summer Tank - Pretty Raccoon Clothing
• Large Textured Hobo in Tahitian Sunset - American Eagle Outfitters
• Tough Ruffles Zipper Bag in Bright Melon - madebyhank
• 77 Straight Jeans in Soft Rinse Wash - American Eagle Outfitters
• Multi-colored Gladiator Sandals - Gap
• Bubblegum Earrings - Relly Rose Designs

Chic for Cheap: An Art Inspired Look

This week Melissa and I decided to create outfits inspired by art found on etsy (like we did a couple of weeks ago).

As soon as I spotted this painting by Tali (tushtush) I knew I wanted to create my look around it.  Instead of taking it literally with colors, patterns, etc... I decided to translate the feeling of the painting into an outfit.

I know I'm breaking the cardinal rule of fashion by mixing brown and black, but hey... rules are meant to be broken, right!  Hopefully I won't get a ticket from the fashion police.

Play along by leaving a link to a chic for cheap (art inspired) look that you've created in the comment section of this post.  Don't forget to check out Melissa's outfit right here.

The Inspiration: Rima - original drawing by Tushtush

The Look:

Giselle Ikat Cami at Delia's | Drew Braided Waist Belt in brown at Forever 21 | Handmade Cotton High-waisted Skirt with Pockets by Babooshka | Mossimo Vella Lace-up Pumps at Target | Beaded Hoop Earrings in black/gold at Forever 21

Chic for Cheap: An Art Inspired Look

I passed on posting a chic for cheap look last week, but I'm happy to be back at it again... this time with a look inspired by the wonderful work of Apak.  This print in particular really captured my eye with it's gorgeous colors and sweet bird motif.  I have to confess that I was also looking for a way to incorporate this large chunky necklace into an outfit, because huge strands of beads are my latest personal obsession.  I think they are the prefect thing to kick a jeans and t-shirt ensemble up a notch or two.  The strands I have at home are in aqua blue and kelly green.  So much fun.

Of course Melissa and I always love it when you play along, so if you feel inspired to participate, just leave a link in the comment section below to an outfit you've put together using Polyvore or your own editing software.  Have fun!  Don't forget to check out Melissa's ensemble here.

{LINKS}
The Inspiration: Exclusive Catch Limited Edition Print by Apak

The Look:  Lightweight Hoodie in white at American Eagle, Elsa V-Neck Tee in orange at Delias, Painted Beads Necklace from Forever 21, 77 Straight Jeans at American Eagle, Gray Teal Bird Wristlet by Drika.B, Suede Ballet Skimmers from Gap.

Chic for Cheap: A Room Inspired Look

Melissa and I had so much fun last week creating outfits using beautiful rooms as inspiration that we decided to have another go at it.  This look is definitely not seasonally appropriate, but it's got me pining for the warmer months.  How about you?

Of course we always love it when you play along, so if you feel inspired to participate, just leave a link in the comment section below to an outfit you've put together using Polyvore or your own editing software.  Have fun!  Don't forget to check out Melissa's ensemble here.

• Stripe Scarf in coral bloom at American Eagle
• Janie Crochet Cardigan at Delia's
• Tough Ruffles Pencil Purse by Made by Hank
• Beaded Hoop Earrings at Forever 21
• Amanda Eyelet Dress at Delia's
• Kenneth Cole Reaction Top Tootsie Shoes at Piperlime
• Madame Bovary Ring at Mod Cloth

Chic for Cheap: A Room Inspired Look

Today Melissa and I thought it would be fun to create our chic for cheap looks using a beautiful interior space as inspiration.  It was hard for me to pick just one image when clicking through page after page of gorgeous rooms, but I finally settled on this understated yet glamorous detail shot from LivingEtc.  Gorgeous, right?!

Of course we love it when you play along.  So if you feel inspired to participate, just leave a link in the comment section below to an outfit you've put together using Polyvore or your own editing software.  Have fun!  Don't forget to check out Melissa's ensemble here.

{LINK LOVE}

• inspirational image from LivingEtc
• Chained Tube Beaded Necklace by LemonGrove (you must also see her exquisite beaded chain necklaces... they are out of this world gorgeous)
• Sonia Kashuk Eye Shadow Quads in Vivid Violets at Target (try just a little for a big impact)
• Oblong Crystal Ring at Forever 21
• 'That Gorgeous Grey' Dress by Replicca
• Chrisella Heels by Gabriella Rocha at Zappos
• Comfy Sweater Knit Tights at ModCloth

Chic for Cheap: Christmas Dinner to New Years Eve

Can you believe that Christmas is almost here?!!  Starting next Tuesday I'll be taking a holiday (I'll be flying to the East Coast a few days after Christmas to meet Melissa and some other wonderful bloggers for the first time) and will return again after the New Year.

With the holidays in mind, Melissa and I decided to cover both Christmas dinner and New Years Eve in our Chic for Cheap look today.  This one takes some great basics and transforms into two completely different looks with some sweet little accessories.

Of course we'd love it if you played along.  Create a chic and affordable look using Polyvore or your own program and then leave a link to your finished look in the comment section below.  Don't forget to check out Melissa's outfit right here (she should have it  up shortly if it isn't already).

For product links...

Chic for Cheap: A Graduation

{LINKS} Rosalea Earrings by Polished, Perfect Fit Crewneck Tee in Light Blade at J.Crew, Ruffled Trim Cardigan, Basic Pencil Skirt with Pockets both from Forever 21, Mia Bloom Shoes at Buckle, Rosalea Earrings by Old Navy

Today's chic for cheap look was requested by Dana who will be graduating in a couple of weeks and would like an outfit that she can wear under her robe, as well as out to lunch with her folks afterward.  Here are a few more details in Dana's own words:

"I will be graduating from college in a few weeks. It doesn't have to be anything formal, just something that I can wear under my cap and gown and then wear to lunch afterward with my family and friends. I like skirts and dresses but the ceremony is in December so it's actually starting to get chilly in Texas now.  Any ideas?"

So what do you think lovelies?  Do you have any ideas for Dana?  If so put your look together using Polyvore or your own software and leave a link to your ensemble in the comment section of this post.  Don't forget to check out Melissa's outfit right here.

Congratulations Dana!  No matter what you wear, I hope you will have a wonderful day celebrating your accomplishments with the ones you love.

Chic for Cheap: A Group Birthday Party

 

* Gunmetal Bead Earrings at Forever 21 * Rosebud Salve at b-glowing * Joelle Wool Coat at Forever 21 * Angie Knit Dress at Forever 21 * Metalic Rib Tights at Target * Black Layered Effect Tote at Target * Two-tone Patent Pump with Buckle from Newport-News *

Today's chic for cheap look was created at the request of reader Shannon.  Here's how she describes her outfit needs:

"I'll be attending a group birthday dinner for a friend/law school classmate at an Italian restaurant followed by drinks at a bar or two.  Boring, you say?  Wear anything?  Lol.  Well, here is the first twist.  I would very much like to turn this friendship into something more, so I want to look fabulous without looking like I tried too hard.  The second twist is that the birthday boy's father is coming in from out-of-state for the occasion, so my look also needs to be appropriate for meeting the parents.  Yikes!  It's taking place in the middle of January in Minnesota, so no sundresses.  Haha.  Also, I am on a student budget, so although I very much want chic, truly cheap is also a primary consideration!  Maybe I can even add an item or two to my Christmas list if I get some ideas in time.  Is it possible to find an outfit that will both knock my friend's socks off AND leave a good impression on his dad?  P.S.  I'm 25, just so you aren't imagining an outfit for someone much older or younger."

Melissa and I really had our work cut out for us on this one, but I love what Melissa came up with, and I had fun putting mine together too.  I think it might also be the most affordable look I've ever done for a C & C post.  If you want to help Shannon out, leave a link to an outfit of your creation (using Polyvore or your own program) in the comment section below.

P.S.  I added in some Rosebud Salve so you can have your kisser in tip-top shape for the occasion Shannon.  Have fun... here's hoping that everything goes exactly as you hope it will.

Tea + Talk Time

Grab a cup o' tea and head over to Melissa Loves for our Tea + Talk interview with the lovely Lisa Solomon.