Ikat Print: Trend for Less

May 27, 2009 07:00 AM | Comments (2) | Posted in look for less, accessories, dresses, skirts, ikat print, summer 2009, trend for less

Ikat print continues to be a major trend with pieces featuring the print popping up at every store from Forever21 to Macys to Saks. Ikat print isn’t to be confused with “African Print” - Ikat print involves the weaving of thread into a patterns, while African print usually involves the stamping/painting of a pattern on a piece of fabric.  When wearing an Ikat printed item, keep the rest of your outfit simple, as the print IS your signature piece.

Here’s Our Picks for Getting the Ikat Print Trend for Less

Accessories

1. Global Ikat Scarf, $3.99 at UrbanOutfitters.com
2. Ikat Head Wrap, $2.99 at Charlotte Russe.
3. Astar Ikat Print Pareo, $8.80 at Forever21.com
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Dresses

1. Ikat Print Dress, $98.00 at Banana Republic
2. Imagination Smocked Ikat Strapless Dress, on sale for $19.00 at Kohls
3. AGB Ikat Print Sleeveless Voile Maxi Dress, $69.00 at Macys.com
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Tops

Braided Ikat Top, $49.50 at Gap
French Connection Ikat Belted Batwing Jumper, $62.52 at Asos.com
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Skirts

1. Faith21 Plus Size Ikat Print Skirt, $15.80 at Forever21.com
2. Charter Club Ikat-Print Cotton Voile Skirt, on sale for $51.75 at Macys.com
3. Ikat Print Mini-Skirt, $99 at DKNY.com

The Dirndl Skirt: British Style on a Budget

July 6, 2008 02:00 PM | Comments (1) | Posted in skirts, british style

Who’d have thought that an item worn by Alpine peasants in the nineteenth century could make such a mark in the fashion world? The Dirndl, a full skirt that hangs just below the knee, traditionally worn by Austrian and German peasants, has surprised us all, and replaced the pencil skirt in the fashion stakes.

Models at Donna Karan were on safari, in full, caramel-coloured Dirndls and Panama hats, whilst Marni offered up a bountiful selection of flowing linen skirts, which were paired, in classic Marni style, with chunky wooden bangles piled high on the arm and super-high wedges. At Prada, the real show-pieces were the diaphanous Dirndls painted with whimsical, fairytale images. If wearing a work of art is a bit OTT for you, take inspiration from Karl Lagerfeld’s collection, where simple black skirts looked chic with Mary Janes and super-wide, patent belts.

Warehouse do a beige, Donna Karan-lookalike skirt for £35 ($70), which is great for the office, and right on trend, with safari style being big this season. For a more casual look, try this flippy skater skirt from Topshop, £22 ($44), or make a statement with this tribal print version, £20 ($40) from New Look. Polka dot lovers will go dotty for this spotty Dirndl, a steal at £14.99 ($30), from H&M.

New York & Company Sale Alert

June 3, 2008 09:00 AM | Comments (0) | Posted in sale, skirts, new york and co, ombre, work clothes, interview clothes, going out, leisurewear, summer trends, signature sale

The Deal: New York & Co.‘s signature Semi-Annual Signature Sale begins on June 1 and ends June 11. Get up to 50% off on work clothes, lively tribal print tops, maxi dresses, and pedal pushers. What’s more, there’s free shipping on purchases of $75 or more until June 21 with the promo code 2665.

The Lowdown: New York and Co. has always been a good place to find an interview or first-day-of-work outfit. Their merchandise is mature and easy to wear, but never stodgy and always stylish.  New York and Company’s versatile selection is even more appealing with the awesome sales coming up. The clothes are already at affordable prices, so we may not be able to resist come June 1.

Pictured: New York and Co. nails the bright, full skirt trend.

There are the standard pieces, like this no-nonsense V-neck sweater for $29.95.

But then again, they’ve nailed some of the hottest summer trends, like ombre.

That said, you can even pick up your leisure wear and your going-out clothes from here. Wear this striped pullover (currently $20.96) to go walk your dog.

This slinky halter top, only $22.95, is meant to be shown off.

What to Buy for Fall 2008: Long Skirts

March 1, 2008 01:00 PM | Comments (2) | Posted in skirts, fall fashion, fall 2008

Skirts for fall are long, sinewy, and even slit to the thigh if you’re so inclined. We’re just happy for a chance to keep warm and stylish on those crisp autumn mornings. Get ahead of the game by picking up some pieces now, to wear then . . .

1. Fit and Flare Skirt, $39, from Newport News on Amazon.com

2. Knit Maxi Skirt, $58, Arden B.

3. Long Slim Skirt, on sale $29.99, Chadwick’s