The High/Low: Mix Discount with Designer
Yes, she is a shining star, but long before First Lady Michelle Obama paired J. Crew gloves with Isabelle Toledo, I have lived and loved the high/low. For me, the famous ‘80’s Vogue cover showing model Michaela in a Lacroix couture top and jeans was the “aha moment.” It was beautiful, quirky and looked like she picked the outfit herself, even if she didn’t. So readers, go on and mix your vintage with your discount with your designer. Now you might ask, what is so great about that other than saving a bit of cash? It’s fun, creative and gives you a look that stays true to you. Let’s break it down.
Save the Green
Well recessionistas, not too many of us are looking to spend like its 1989 these days. So how do you cut a corner or two without loosing your fashion tiara? Just put your money where you will get the most bang for the buck. A brilliant pair of fresh Prada platforms or always chic Tod’s mocs? Either will raise the level of those basic, dark wash jeans, especially the $40 ones you scored at Marshalls. Pick your favorite piece and spotlight it, that’s the trick.
Find the Fun
Putting together an outfit is a chance to be creative on a day to day basis. It’s more than covering up, it’s showing the world who you are in shorthand. A mix and match takes more time, but is more satisfying than a one note look. In fact, I don’t think the fashion bibles have spent a single issue highlighting a top to toe look since conspicuous consumption went belly up along with the stock market. Look for a similarity in weight of material, or color family, or feeling. Other than that, mix it up!
Down to You
The beauty of mixing the high/low is that it can help you stay away from the “I’m a Dolce ad” look you get when you put the dress, with the shoes, with the bag, with the glasses from the same source. Not all trends will work for you and mixing designers, retailers and even seasons will help you stay focused on what looks great on you, not on what the D&G boys have out right this second.
Take a look at these pics. I picked skinny jeans from Gap.com, a 60’s vintage halter from Rustyzipper.com, a bag from Jcrew.com and Costume National flats from Saks.com. The jeans and halter are quite inexpensive and are made even more fabulous by the sharp but not over the top “Editor” bag from J. Crew and finished with the crazy fun flats. With a mix like this you will look cute, chic and most importantly, like you. And isn’t that what fashion is for?
Editor Tote: $395.00
Slightly Faded Straight Leg Jeans: $69.50
1960’s Women’s Halter Shirt: $29.50
Costume National Slingbak Flats: $560
Find at Smarter.com: Shop for more slingback flats and women’s halter tops.
Discounts on women’s straight leg jeans and handbags.
