TopShop
Make Jewelry Travel Friendly, Nordstrom Sale, $20 Spring Sandal, DYI Earrings, TopShop Necklace
Tangled jewelry, lost earrings, stolen goodies… oh my! FabSugar has tips on how to keep your jewelry travel friendly, and a little safer.
Many of Nordstrom’s Spring Dress, Shoes and Handbags are now on sale! Second City Style gives us heads up on saving up to 40%.
Omiru’s got the right idea on how to step into Spring: a gorgeous faux-snakeskin sandal for less than $20 - oooh, nice.
We love DYI projects, and this one’s simple, cheap, and matchy-matchy. Get instructions on how to make your own covered-button earrings from the clever BlissTree blog.
Fashion Pulse Daily hows us that the TopShop for US online store has some great finds; check out the totally tight chain-link mesh ring necklace, for only $30!
The Budget Fashionista’s Weekly Retail Report
In March, we saw signs that the economy is stabilizing - retail stocks are up, particularly for Sears Canada and UNIQLO. Other good news: Topshop finally opened in New York; it appears to have lived up to all the hype. And jewelers are thankful for brides and grooms-to-be, as the bridal industry appears to be recession-proof.
But it’s not all rainbows and sunshine. The luxury market continues to nose dive. Profits at Versace, for example, dropped quite a bit (but mostly do to exchange rate flux).
Meanwhile, Macy’s was “downgraded to junk” by an investment firm. That’s gotta hurt. Macy’s has company, though. A mall in Long Island defaulted on a $124 million mortgage payment, all because its two top stores went bankrupt.
In even gloomier news - Gottschalks is finally set to liquidate. Portland’s Zells Broz. Jewelers is following in its footsteps, announcing that it, too, is closing down.
Who were the casualties in all of this? In march, 6,500 retail jobs were lost. Ouch.
Get Free Stuff via TopShop Heartschallenger Vans
Topshop, the British style mecca that makes Forever21 look like K-mart, is giving way free stuff on the streets of New York City via it’s Heartschallenger Vans. From now until April 1st, find the van via it’s GPS tracker, head down to where it’s located, and score a goody bag from the store. Rumor has it that they’re giving away $30-$500 giftcards.
Note: Sorry this post is for folks in New York…I know it’s not fair, which is why I suggest you contact the TopShop folks and encourage them to open up a shop near you. Here’s a link to their contact page. Tell them I sent you.
Photo: Via TopShop’s InsideOut Blog
Christina Aguilera at Topshop
What: Christina Aguilera is rumored to be developing a budget friendly fashion line for the British fast fashion store, TopShop.
What They Say: From Refinery29: Here’s one we didn’t see coming—rumors are circulating that platinum-blonde, pop-princess, Christina Aguilera is to design a range for British retailer Topshop (and she’ll get a reported 4 million pounds for it, too).
What We Say: We told you that celebrities will be clamoring to develop budget lines in 2009 (well MOST celebrities, Puff Daddy/P Diddy/Duff Piddy was EVERYWHERE this holiday season pushing his high price vodka and men’s cologne). However, while we think Xtina is an awesome singer, her fashion choices have not always been on point- Remember that wig she wore to an award show a few years back?
Fashion Trend: Cross Body Purses
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
A friend of ours recently arrived to a party with a small, white leather bag with a long strap worn across her chest. Inspired by her off-the-beaten-path style, we set out to find these purses at our favorite shopping haunts. Since our friend is in love with fashion, we weren’t surprised to find that the small purse is growing in popularity; we assume it’s a reaction to the gigantic totes and hobos we’ve been carrying for a few seasons, and we’re happy to see that there are more options out there for those of us who don’t carry everything and the kitchen sink on our shoulders. The return of the clutch heralded the return of smaller purses, and the options are encouraging. But don’t worry about looking like you came from the 80’s in a time machine—this millennium’s embellishments, fabrics and details have been applied to the decades-old shapes.
Use the chain-link strap that comes with this raffia clutch from Old Navy—it’s currently $4.99.
If you want a more classic purse, try this camera purse from Urban Outfitters. We love its rich cognac color. Now $24.99
The snake trim clutch from Topshop is a bit of a splurge, but since it’s quality leather, you’ll keep it for years. 30 pounds.
This little red cross body purse was found in a thrift shop and embellished with pieces of jewelry. The quilted pattern is classy and traditional, while the bright red keeps it from looking outdated. $19.00.
Budget Shopping Guide: British Style on a Budget
OXFORD CIRCUS
Oxford Circus has all the best high street shops Britain has to offer, and many huge flagship stores, such as Topshop and Primark.
Topshop
36-38 Great Castle Street, London, W1W 8LG
www.topshop.com
Topshop needs little introduction. Since starting out on the British high street, Topshop stores have opened all over the world, and most recently, New York. But the flagship store in Oxford Circus, London, is a must-see. Comprising four huge floors of fabulous, on-trend pieces, such as this tuxedo jacket, £55 ($110), Topshop is known for its unbeatably sensitive responses to the catwalk. Spot the ‘Balenciaga’ floral suit, the ‘Luella’ shirt, and the ‘Miu Miu’ skirt, all at a snip of the price. Spend a couple of hours in the Shoe Lounge – prices range from about £25 ($50) for a pair of ballet flats or gladiator sandals to £60 ($120) for some killer platform heels, and although they aren’t dirt cheap, the quality is great. Avoid at all costs the ‘vintage’ section – overpriced, charity-shop sourced rip-offs, and instead head to the denim section. Whether it’s ripped-up, acid wash skinnies you want, or indigo denim wide-legged jeans (TBF loves these, at £40/$80), there’s something to suit most budgets.
Primark
499-517 Oxford Street, London, W1K 7DA
www.primark.co.uk
Primark is a fast-fashion mecca, stacked to the brim with disposable fashion at unbelievable prices. The too-good-to-be-true prices mean that the quality of clothes isn’t the best (a hem coming undone here, a button falling off there) experiment with the most adventurous of trends (like the jumpsuit) without spending a small fortune on something you’ll never wear. This super mini dress a la Miu Miu is a bargain at £12 ($24), and in the sales, items are often reduced to just 50p ($1)! The basics are poor, scratchy and tend to shrink in the wash, but keep an eye out for the cashmere sweaters and cardigans, and the accessories section where you can find on-trend jewellery from £1 ($2), like this chunky Marni-esque necklace (£3/$6). The Oxford Street flagship is filled with shoppers fighting for the last must-have bargain. TBF much prefers the Birmingham store. Top tip: go there on weekdays to avoid the weekend rush.
New Look
500-502 Oxford Street, London, W1C 2HW
www.newlook.co.uk
New Look is yet another bargainous destination on the British high street with a really great plus size range (Inspire), and has recently added large shoe lounges to the bigger stores, much to the delight of budget fashionistas everywhere, as New Look’s shoes are some of their strongest trend items. Co-ordinate your shoes to your outfit, with some heeled Mary-Janes in a variety of candy colours, from about £25 ($50). This season, the store’s designers have taken inspiration from the fifties: the key pieces to look out for include this floral-print prom dress (£28/$56) and this retro polka dot bikini (complete with Brigitte Bardot-style high-waisted bottoms), £20 ($40). Finish your look off with a pair of brightly-hued, oversized sunglasses, only £8 ($16).
Peacocks
www.peacocks.co.uk
Peacocks is often seen as Primark’s less fashionable cousin, but bargain shoppers should not underestimate this budget store. Because it’s a little off the fashion radar, you can find things at tiny prices, and unlike Primark, there are usually most sizes in stock. This safari shirt dress ticks all the boxes for this season, and is only £14 ($28). The shop also has a delectable selection of gladiator sandals, this summer’s must-have, at around £10 ($20) each.
THE BEST VINTAGE AND MARKETS
If you love vintage, then you’ll love Brick Lane. Take a wonder and you’re bound to find a one-of-a-kind vintage shop stacked to the brim with bargains from throughout the decades. Portobello Market is also worth a visit, but keep your eyes peeled for over-priced secondhand clothes.
Beyond Retro
110-112 Cheshire Street, E2 6EJ
www.beyondretro.com
Beyond Retro is a huge warehouse devoted entirely to vintage clothing and accessories. Arranged in colour-order, the shop is easy to navigate, unlike many other mish-mash thrift stores. There are rows upon rows of vintage logo t-shirts for about £15 ($30) each – a great present for a boyfriend or brother, or for yourself, if you belt at the waist. Although they’re a little pricier, it’s worth checking out the crazy, 80s taffeta prom dresses, and the beautiful antique Japanese kimonos.
Absolute Vintage
91 Brick Lane, London, E1 6QL
www.absolutevintage.co.uk
Vintage is a Budget Fashionista’s best friend. You can pick up some unique pieces at bargainous prices, but London vintage dealers have become savvy to the demand for second-hand clothing, and in recent years the prices have soared. Absolute Vintage, Brick Lane’s best-kept secret, is one of the few places where you can still buy vintage at reasonable prices. Beyond Retro’s vast warehouse is certainly a spectacle, but if you want one-of-a-kind vintage on a budget, Absolute Vintage is the place to venture. There is a small clothing section, but the shop prides itself on its shoes and handbags. Pick up a pair of patent, black Bally court-shoes for £20 ($40), or a cute clutch for £15 ($30).
Portobello Market
Located on Portobello Road, Portobello market is famous for its antiques. Fashion-wise, the market is made up of stalls selling expensive handmade clothing by up-and-coming designers (worth a look but not budget-friendly) and lots and lots of vintage. It’s up to the savvy shopper to sniff out the bargains from the overpriced pieces which aren’t vintage at all. Keep your eyes peeled for the £5 ($10) stalls – rummage through bubble skirts, broderie anglaise summer dresses and silk neckerchiefs, all £5. Don’t be afraid to haggle for a bargain! Tired shoppers need refreshments – visit the man who sells coconuts with straws in, just at the end of the clothing stalls.
OUT OF TOWN DEPARTMENT STORES
If the Oxford Circus crowds are too hellish for you, one of Britain’s out-of-town department stores, such as Matalan, might be more your thing. Want designer labels but without the huge price tag? Head to Britain’s favourite designer outlet, Bicester Village.
Matalan
www.matalan.co.uk
It’s the small prices that bring visitors to this out-of-town department store. If you can ignore the shapeless, old-fashioned t-shirts, there are some real hidden gems. TBF is loving Matalan’s new, fashion-forward collection, Et Vous: pair this chiffon, tiered-front top (£14/$28) with this sateen, tulip skirt (£14/$28) from the new range with these cut-out sandals (£18/$36). There is something to suit most shapes and sizes, as most of the ranges run from UK sizes 8-20. This graphic print dress, with black ribbon sash, will cinch you in in all the right places, and your purse will love you for it, at only £16 ($32).
Bicester Village
50 Pingle Drive, Oxon, OX26 6WD
www.bicestervillage.com
Bicester Village is an outlet shopping centre about an hour’s drive from London, but it is definitely worth the drive. Find loads of designer brands at discounted prices under one roof. For shoe fetishists there is Salvatore Ferragamo and Jimmy Choo, where shoppers have been known to grab a pair of Choos for £60 ($120). Pick up a discounted Anya Hindmarch purse, or a classic trench coat at Burberry or Aquascutum. The outlet Ralph Lauren store sells polo shirts and sweaters at a third of the price, or alternatively, head to Jack Wills, Britain’s answer to RL. If you lust after expensive, silk lingerie but can’t bring yourself to part with all that cash, you’ll love Bicester Village’s Agent Provocateur and Myla outlet stores – look out for AP’s signature seamed stockings for £10 ($20).
News Alert: Topshop Coming to America
What: Topshop, one of Great Britain’s most popular and trendiest clothing stores, is finally coming to America. Those of you in Manhattan may have seen the signs going up—the store opens in October. But for those outside of the city who must wait for Topshops to spread across the country, fear not—the U.S. website launches in September, according to People.
What We Say: We’re counting down the days. Instead of stocking up on Topshop gear on every trip abroad, Topshop is finally coming to us. Kate Moss designs for them, and we look forward to seeing what that fashion icon creates. Most items are below 100 bucks, but beware—Topshop’s founder, Sir Philip Green, likes to stick to full price. You won’t be seeing many sales here, according to WWD. British style will be worn by Americans, and seeing the results will be very interesting.
Pictured: Some of Topshop’s pieces.
Photo from People.com.
Flower Power - British Style on a Budget
THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD
Natalie gives us her take on the latest British style trends and how to get them on a budget
I can’t wait for summer to begin so I can throw on a pretty floral tea dress and go picnicking with my friends in the gorgeous British countryside. The Spring/Summer shows offered a whole bouquet for us to feast our eyes on. Pansies and poppies bloomed on sculpted jackets and pelmet skirts at Balenciaga, and Prada embraced romance in their Cruise collection, with dramatic dirndl skirts bedecked with blossoms. Go full-skirted yourself with New Look’s flowery recreation, at only £25 ($49). And the utterly fabulous British designer Luella Bartley returned to our shores with prom dresses, pleated skirts, and secretary blouses in floral prints, punked up with spiky skater boots. I saved my pennies and splashed out on one of her fun Batman t-shirts, but have been wearing it with Topshop’s very ‘Luella’ flower-print ra-ra skirt, for an affordable £30 ($59), and a little birdie tells me that you can pick up a button-up shirt very similar to Lu’s, for only £12 ($24), at Matalan.
Summertime means parties, parties and more parties. But what to wear… Try H&M’s strapless prom dress, patterned with a flurry of florals – at £24.99 ($49) you’ll still have money left over to buy yourself a Pimm’s. If you want to be part of the petal parade but fear that you’ll end up looking like your Great Aunt Betty, pick flower power accessories, such as Topshop’s £6 ($12) carved rose ring, or pay homage to Carrie Bradshaw in anticipation of the SATC movie by pinning an oversized corsage onto your blouse – Johnny and Rosie’s giant rose pin (£25/$49) is my absolute favourite, but H&M offer thriftier versions. One day I’ll save enough to own an Hermes scarf, but until then, New Look’s flowery alternative at £8 ($16) will do nicely. Until the sun comes out here, I’ll fight the unrelenting English rain with a rosy umbrella from the Princess of the Posies, Cath Kidston. Blooming marvellous.
Runway pictures courtesy of style.com.
Background image: Paris Rose linen fabric from Cath Kidston.
Topshop: Not Just In Manhattan?
Topshop is officially opening shop in SOHO (in New York City), but plans are underway for several more US stores.
According to WWD, Topshop is looking at opening at least 2 more stores in Manhattan, as well as stores in Las Vegas, Boston and Miami. Interestingly, and much like it’s chief US competitor H&M, Los Angeles was not on the original expansion list.
It’s like the fashion world is punishing LA for the Ugg.
Topshop in New York, Plus Size Sister Store to Soon Follow
After years of speculation, TopShop, the British version of H&M, has signed a lease for it’s first US store to be located at 480 Broadway (Broadway & Broome in SOHO) in New York City. The store recently gain worldwide fame for partnering with supermodel Kate Moss on her line of surprisingly cute clothing. Also word is that TopShop’s parent group, Arcadia, is looking to bring it’s high fashion plus size stores, Evans Plus size, to the US as well. Word to Lane Bryant- better step up your game because Evans has great plus size items
TopShop Coming to the US, Brits Go High/Low, and More News from Across the Pond.
From the wonderful folks at Fashion United UK
TopShop Coming to US?
Green said that he opens to open a store in the US within the next year, but is not yet sure if it will be in New York or another city…. “There are points for and against,” he said. “New York has an element of safety but some experienced US retailers tell me it isn’t a good proving ground for the rest of the US” . . .Karsten confirmed that there are plans to launch a new platform for the Topshop website. According to Green, the new version will allow overseas customers to buy from the site as well and should go live before Christmas. Read More
Tesco Goes High/Low
Tesco is following H&M as the leading high street omni-retailer to launch its first upmarket clothing range. Tesco is due to launch its new F&F Collection, designed by Lee Rees-Oliviere, as its most high-end clothing range to date. Lee Rees-Oliviere is Tesco’s head of design and the new collections, available for both men and women, will feature occasionwear and formalwear in 25 key Tesco stores nationwide from next week. The label will compete head-on with the likes of Designers At Debenhams and Marks & Spencer’s Autograph sub-brand. Read More
Everyone’s Getting Ready for Fall (Fashion)
Some recent shopping scoops from fellow TBF readers:
Many of you are in love with the new George ME line at Wal-Mart. I’ll be writing a review of the line and my many trips to Wal-Mart this past weekend, later this month.
A rash of new store openings has prompted several readers to write in. Kelsey reports on a new Lane Bryant opening in the Yorktown Center in Edina, MN (right across from Target Greatland) on September 14th. As a part of their grand opening on the 14th, the store is offering 40% off on just about everything in the store and after that, offering 20% off through the 18th.
Michelle reports on her great finds this past holiday weekend. At Marshalls, she found a short gray (hot fall color) Micheal Kors wrap sweater for $7.00 (original price $70.00) and a pair of Roxy winter pants for $5.00! At Nine West, she cleaned up at the summer clearance sale with shoes originally $59.00, now $14.99! She reports that all belts are marked down, with an additional 50% off the lowest price. She picked up a wide brown leather belt for $9.99!
And, on an international note, Marilyn reports that the “Top Shop in Madrid looks like Forever21”. Let’s hope the New York version is better.
Shoe Boots: Fall 2006 Fashion Preview
The hot new boot this season is actually a shoe. Everyone from Vogue to Topshop are featuring shoe boots as the new boots for fall. Think round toe, black boots, circa late 19th century, made of satin, with thick and/or lacey shoe laces. You won’t see me rocking a pair—they make chunky legs look chunkier—but I do think that budget fashionistas who are a bit trendier or socialite in their style would be able to carry off the look without a hitch.
How You’ll Wear Them:
- With a tailored, 1940’s style suit and pair of black (or gray) leggings
- to add a bit of femininity to a pair of tailored menswear pants
- with a ultra mini and pair of bright colored tights
TopShop Looking for Space in Manhattan
According to the shopping grapevine, the British H&M TopShop, is scouting locations for a mega store in Manhattan. The estimated 60,000+ store featuring contemporary designs at prices falling somewhere between H&M and Zara, would open in Spring 2007.
Shopping Rumor: TopShop and Nordstrom Headed to Manhattan?
I must have done something right . . .
First the book is doing well AND I just got a note from a secret spy that Topshop and Nordstrom’s are casing Manhattan for locations. Now all I need is for Andre Leon Talley to come pick me up in his limo and whisk me away for a shopping spree at Target.
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