High Vs Low
Rihanna in Factory Girl Leggings: Look for Less
We all know Rihanna can rock just about anything she throws on, including the Factory Girl leggings she’s pictured in here. But if we’re looking to channel our inner rock chick, we need to do it on the cheap (until we make our first platinum CD, that is, which could be any minute now). We’ve found similar leggings for half the price, and pulled together the rest of the ensemble, too, on a budget:
Romeo & Juliet Couture Faux Leather Leggings, $28.90, Bluefly.com.
Fleur di Lise Tee, $10, Charlotte Russe.
Women's Denim Jacket, $29.50, Old Navy
Women’s Mossimo Kiley Boots, $29.99, Target
High vs. Low: The Cropped Jacket
“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
We’re suggesting the cropped jacket as another transition piece when the weather is cooling down. It won’t be summer anymore, and yet the autumn leaves haven’t yet coated the ground, so an easy option is to just throw on a cropped jacket when you need that extra layer of clothing. We’ve seen versions with one button or three, with short and long sleeves, but we’ve settled on these two as our favorites. But since we don’t wish to break the bank for any trend, we’ve opted for the lower priced version. So, which is which?
On the left: A.B.S. white colorblocked cotton swing jacket, $144.99 (but regular retail $285!) at Bluefly.com.
On the right: City Style Ballet Neck Jacket, NY and Company, currently $17.98.
High vs. Low: The T-Strap Peep-Toe
The T-strap peep-toe prompts us to ask the question: How many trends can one shoe hold? The T-strap, the peep-toe, the retro vibe—is it all too much? Can our feet handle it? Uh, in a word—yes. They’re the perfect transition shoe into fall fashion, and the particular T-strap peep-toes we chose are brown and white with cute perforated holes on the edges. They’re playful, but still completely businesslike and appropriate for the office. And they work now because they have for ages—the same style we saw on swing dancers in the 1940’s is coming back. The only difference between these two pairs is the price—so which is which?
On the left: Merona Elaina T-strap pumps, via Target. $24.99.
On the right: Franco Sarto Ability pumps, Zappos.com, $93.00.
Images: target.com and zappos.com
High vs Low: The Boyfriend Cardigan
“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
We’re suckers for soft luxe fabric—and the boyfriend cardigan looks sumptuous.When you want to be trendy but comfortable, the boyfriend cardigan is like a gift sent from sweater heaven this fall, and just for the record, we’ll be wearing it with camis, jeans, and a long necklace. Now, where to find it? We’ve zeroed in on two versions, but only one fits our bottom-line conscious budget. So which is which?
On the left: Silk and Cashmere Boyfriend Cardigan from Victoria’s Secret, $29.
On the right: Trina Turk Boyfriend Cardigan, $228.00
from Nordstrom
The Floppy Brimmed Hat: High Vs. Low
Hats can add a little oomph to the most basic of outfits—and we love ‘em because, like belts, you can get some that look trendy and terrific without parting with a whole lotta dough. You could pay more for a stylish hat, but we’re here to prove it’s not necessary, with this floppy hat high vs. low. One of the hats pictured is more than we like to spend on a whole outfit, while the other is at the perfect pricepoint for a signature accessory. So which is which?
On the left, the high, Penelope by Eugenia, $145; on the right, a budget pick, the Grandpa Fedora at Urban Outfitters, on sale $14.99.
The Gray T-Shirt Dress: High Vs. Low
It seems the gray t-shirt dress is the latest mid-summer trend amongst the Hollywood set, and we can’t really argue with it’s comfort or ease. We can, however, argue against paying too much for one. Clearly, you don’t have to, and here’s proof: We’ve picked two t-shirt dresses—one carries a pricetag far too hefty for a slip of cotton, while the other just slightly easier on our bottom line. So which is which?
On the left, the high version, a Splendid Heather Gray Shirt Dress, $138, Fashion Chateau. On the right, a more budget-friendly option, a Lux His for Her Dress, $38, Urban Outfitters
High vs. Low: Sneakers
Most hardcore fashionistas wouldn’t be caught dead without their stilettos, but every once in a while you have to take them off and put on some comfy sneakers. After all, you certainly can’t exercise in sky-high heels (unless you’re Mariah Carey, that is). Everyone should have at least one decent, and still good-looking, pair in their closet. We just don’t believe that it’s necessary to sacrifice style for comfort. You can have both! And that’s why we found cute and comfy high and low styles. So, which is which?
On the left: the Billy JS sneaker by Jessica Simpson, $70, available at bakersshoes.com. On the right: the Bastia sneaker in lamb leather, $465, available at louisvuitton.com.
The Ombre Handbag: High Vs. Low
Ombre patent handbags are going to be hot for fall—and while we’re kind of coveting the look we’re also trying to show some self-restraint, reminding ourselves that ombre will be soooo dated before you can say “fancy French word for dip-dyed.” Still, it’s actually pretty easy to indulge in this particular short-term trend on a budget without having the piece look cheap. Testing that theory, we’re pitting a high-priced bag against an affordable version, for your consideration. So which is which?
On the left, the high-priced piece, an Elliot Lucca Portia Pocket Shopper, $398, at Hobby Fob; on the right, the budget version, a Worthington Patent Dome Satchel, $29.99 on sale at JCPenney
High vs. Low: The Headband
Recently popularized by headband-loving Lauren Conrad on MTV’s The Hills, the headband is a really great hair accessory, especially during those unavoidable bad hair days. A plain wide headband is perfect for keeping your hair out of your face, and give you a pulled-together look. However, a fancier headband with chic embellishments is ideal for evenings out to cocktail parties and even weddings! Even if you don’t want to splurge on different colors and styles, a sleek neutral toned headband should be in every fashionista’s boudoir. We love both of these high and low versions. The circles add a sophisticated touch without going overboard. So, which is which?
On the bottom: The Tasha Soft Circle Headband, $32, available at nordstrom.com. Up top: The Circle Jelly Stretch Headband, $8, available at target.com.
High vs. Low: Bandage Dress
The bandage dress gained popularity in the late 1980s as designer Herve Leger debuted the curve-hugging look. Celebrities and supermodels were pictured wearing these stunning numbers that gave them a coveted hour-glass silhouette. The style experienced a resurgence in 2007 when designer Christopher Kane launched his line of bandage dresses with flirty details like lace trim and plastic seatbelt-style belts. Pretty soon the red carpet was flooded with stars like Lindsay Lohan and Victoria Beckham rocking the classic Herve Leger look currently designed by Max Azria. We think these gorgeous finds in lavender are perfect for the remainder of summer. So, which is which?
On the bottom: Bebe’s one-shoulder gradient banded dress, $98, available at bebe.com. Up top: Herve Leger by Max Azria asymmetrical bandage dress in lavender, $2,000, available at herveleger.com.
High vs. Low: The Statement Shoe
Make a statement with every step you take. Hardcore, edgy shoes have been spotted on pretty much every designer’s runway, and it doesn’t look like they’re going anywhere for a few seasons at least. We love them because they enable you to step out in style, yet still maintain a pretty simple look overall. With shoes this eye-catching, we recommend pairing them with a sexy skinny jean and fitted tank or classic blouse. It’s an ensemble that will get you noticed without being too overwhelming or over the top. One look at your feet and people will know you mean business - all the more reason to rock them this year. It’s clear that 2008 is shaping up to be the year of the statement accessory be it shoes, handbags or sunglasses, and we think a true fashionista will make the most of them. Now, check out these equally stunning pairs. So, which is which?
On the left: The Madalynn sandal by Steve Madden, $109, available at stevemadden.com. On the right: the Dior Blue Angel Stiletto by Christian Dior, $825, available at eluxury.com.
High vs. Low: Color Sunglasses
We can all pretty much agree that summer is the perfect season to put some color into your wardrobe. After all, there’s plenty of time in the autumn and winter months to adopt a much more drab color palette. One of the best ways to add color to your look without channeling Rainbow Brite is with accessories. A brightly colored handbag or shoe can add pizzazz to your look without going overboard. It’s especially great if you are afraid of color, and want to maintain a simpler look, but still want a hint of a bold hue. So, if you’re a little color shy, we suggest starting out with colorful accessories. Besides handbags and shoes, try wearing bright jewelry, or better yet, sunglasses! Color sunglasses are a hot trend right now, and we think that they’re just perfect for the fashionista who loves statement accessories. Because, let’s be honest, sometimes you just gotta stand out from the sea of dark black sunglasses. So, which is which?
On the right: Louis Vuitton “Gina” sunglasses in turquoise, $530, available at louisvuitton.com. On the left: Fossil’s “Georgia” sunglasses in aqua, $44, available at fossil.com.
High vs. Low: Eyeliner
An eyeliner is one of the essential eye makeup products along with eye shadow and mascara. It enhances the shape of the eyes while also giving them an edgy appeal. The ancient Egyptians were among the first to outline their eyes with pigment for beautification, but also for spiritual reasons. Today, eyeliner is mainly used to accentuate the eyes, and to create that ultra sexy smokey eye look. You can find numerous brands at drugstores for under $10, but designer makeup brands are often over $20. So we wondered, is there a big difference between them?
After some research, we decided to test eyeliners from cosmetics giants Maybelline and Chanel. We’re happy to report that both eyeliners glided on smoothly and stayed put all day with no smudging. The Chanel eyeliner was firm yet creamy, and glided on smoother than the Maybelline eyeliner, creating a straight line immediately upon application. It also had a sponge tip on one end for creating a smokey look. The Maybelline eyeliner created a subtle thin line after one application, ensuring that first time users wouldn’t go overboard with a too-thick line. However, a thicker rim would require two or three applications. The Maybelline eyeliner self-sharpens with a twist of the handle making it quite portable, while the Chanel liner requires sharpening. As far as quality, both liners were excellent. Would we splurge on the Chanel liner? Probably, not.
On the left Chanel’s Stylo Yeux Waterproof eyeliner, $28, available at chanel.com. On the right: Maybelline’s Line Stylist eyeliner, $6.99, available at maybelline.com.
High vs. Low: Summer Party Dress
We absolutely love summer style, and one of our favorite pieces is the summer party dress. For many, summer is the ideal party season with reasons to celebrate constantly around the corner. As your invitations to clam bakes, barbecues and dances pile up, one thing you won’t have to worry about is what to wear. The fun and flirty summer party dress works for almost any occasion. Wear it to a beach party with flip flops, or to a summer dance party just by adding your favorite pair of heels. Accessorize with chunky jewelry or a quirky bag, and you’ll be the belle of the beach. Thankfully, this look doesn’t have to cost you your savings because we found seriously adorable high and low options. So, which is which?
Up top is Betsey Johnson’s Embroidered Daisy Dot dress, $345, available at betseyjohnson.com. On the bottom is the Laser-Cut Eyelet Strapless dress, $89, available at bebe.com.
High vs. Low: Board Shorts
This summer some of us may be hitting the beach with the sole purpose of getting that perfect golden tan, but those of us that are more athletically inclined will no doubt be engaging in some sportier activities than just laying out. For all of the sporty fashionistas out there (or even those who just want to cover up in between tanning sessions) there’s no better option than boardshorts. Just slide on a cute pair and get ready to surf, swim and strut. But the best part is that you’ll look stylish without having to worry about any embarrassing “wardrobe malfunctions” as you ride the waves. Time to check out our high and low picks. Now, which is which?
On the right: the Brianna Board Short by Lilly Pulitzer, $98, available at lillypulitzer.com. On the left: the Happy Hawaiian Board Short by Roxy, $39.50, available at roxy.com.
High vs. Low: The Cut-Out One Piece
Don’t worry, bikinis will always be in style, but this summer the cut-out one piece swimsuit has come out of hiding and is making quite a splash! We want to take a vacation from always sporting bikinis and embrace the one-piece this year. Seriously, what better way to stand out amidst a sea of two-pieces? So if you’ve shied away from wearing a one-piece because it reminded you of your grandmother’s drab maillot, we urge you to try on this season’s super sexy and chic cut-outs. But do remember to slather on plenty of sunscreen or risk getting some truly funky tan lines. Now check out these high and low options and see if you don’t fall in love. So, which is which?
On the left: the Ombre one-piece monokini in purple, $45, available at victoriassecret.com. On the right: the Starlet one-piece from Vitamin A in silver, $192.95, available at mollybrownsswimwear.com.
Madras Plaid: High Vs. Low
If you’re looking for something youthful, preppy and classic for summer casual wear, nothing beats a good madras plaid, and we’re seeing it all over right now. We love it for the bright colors and ease of wear—throw on a plaid skirt or bermudas, pair with a white tee, flip-flops, big sunglasses, and a tote bag, and you are totally weekend ready. Do you need to spend a fortune to get on the madras bandwagon? Uh, nope, and we’ll prove it. Here, two pairs of madras bermudas, one over-priced and the other just right (even downright cheap!). So which is which?
On the left, the budget pair, Patchwork Bermuda Shorts, on sale $11.49, AZJeans.com , and on the right, the higher priced version, Ladies’ Bermudas, $90, Cape Madras
High vs. Low: Beach Tote
Let’s face it, summer is the season for accessories. Bikinis, sandals, sunglasses, hats, headbands - pretty much every accessory has a role during summertime. And no true fashionista can go through the hottest season of the year without having all the beach and pool essentials, right? What better way to tote (pun intended) all of your fabulous summer accessories than in a stylish beach tote! Considering that your beach tote is going to be languishing under the hot sun all day, half buried in sand, you might want to spare your wallet some pain. You can thank us later for tracking down gorgeous high and low versions of the summer beach tote. For now, tell us which is which…
Up top: Michael Kors’s Malibu Animal Print Tote in black, $148.50, at macys.com. Below: American Living Large Iconic Tote, $27.99, available at jcpenney.com.
High vs. Low: Embellished Flip Flops
“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
They may not be the sexiest footwear, but they are pretty darn comfortable. Flip flops are must-haves for summer as fashionistas flock to the beach, park and pool for some much-needed respite from the heat. Despite their reputation for being somewhat dowdy, there’s no reason that flip flops can’t be cute and fashionable. Instead of opting for the usual plain rubber flip flops, we wanted to look a little more stylish this summer without sacrificing the all-important comfort. Enter embellished flip flops - they’re everything you could want from a traditional pair of flip flops, but they also happen to be, well, pretty. Proof that you don’t have to give up style for comfort, or comfort for style. It’s a win-win situation with both high and low pairs we have picked out for you. Of course, the low option is definitely more of a winner in our opinion. So, which is which?
On the bottom: Havaianas Crystal Mesh flip flops in Silver Moon, $195, available at havaianas.com. On the top: Merona Winda Beaded Champagne flip flops, $17.99, available at Target.com
High vs. Low: Distressed Denim
How can a torn, mutilated and destroyed pair of jeans cost as much as (and sometimes more than) its intact cousin? Wouldn’t it make sense if they cost less considering they look like your dog has had a go at them? Manufacturers justify the price of distressed denim due to the time and work that goes into perfecting that “distressed” look. Ok, we get it, but we still don’t want to shell out a lot of dough for them - it just doesn’t feel right. That’s why we used our budget fashionista sleuthing skills to find a high and low pair to compare. Check them out! We bet you can’t tell which is which…
On the left is the Hollister Venice Boot Cut distressed denim jean, $59.50, available at hollisterco.com. On the right is the True Religion “Johnny” Cowgirl Destroyed distressed denim jean, $284.00, available at truereligionbrandjeans.com.
P.S. Don’t forget that you can always take an old pair of jeans and proceed to cut, tear and transform them into your own version of distressed denim.
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