The Fashion Cult » shopping

OOMA: The World’s Most Perfect Sneakers

The Fashion Cult — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 15:24:22 +0000

Today’s Object Of My Affection (OOMA): SUEDE AND LEATHER STRIPED BOXING SNEAKER by Superga. I’m not even into sneakers like that, but these have me feenin hard for some new kicks.

They are currently half off at Luisaviaroma.com + there’s this: 20% Promo Code FR10CJBA01 on sale items. I soooo, want to snatch these up right now, but I just bought a ticket to Paris and I need not to be on a spending spree right now. Oh, the agony!

LUISAVIAROMA.COM – FREE SHIPPING to the United States, Canada, and Europe

Wise Winter Sale Shopping

The Fashion Cult — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 18:58:10 +0000

For those that didn’t completely bust their budgets buying trinkets for Christmas, now is a terrific time to take advantage of the deep discounts of winter sales. But like all sales, it’s possible to get trapped by the illusion of the “good deal” and end up spending unnecessarily. Don’t buy ultra-trendy items that are slashed to 90% of their retail price. Instead, the Cult advises that you to look for high quality wardrobe staples, which might be more modestly discounted but will prove to be of much high value when you are still getting use out of them five years now.

For example, you might be riveted by these exaggerated platform wedges by Charlotte Olympia. I agree that they’re kind of charming and the 50%+ discount is attractive. But in two years – or even next season! – will you truly be happy that your dropped upwards of $600 on these? Think about how many wears you’ll realistically get how of these. They are currently on sale at Matchesfashion.com, but the store has plenty of wiser winter sale options. See a few of them below.

For dresses, look for classic silhouettes, in durable colors (neutrals and standards like red), and natural fabrics. From left to right:

Similar guidelines can be applied to coats. These winter items tend to require a greater monetary investment, making it even more important to make thoughtful choices. From left to right:

Suno at Matches Next Spring?

The Fashion Cult — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 05:34:41 +0000

Max Osterweis started Suno in 2008 after years of visiting Kenya and collecting textiles from the east African country. He later teamed with Erin Beatty to design collections in New York City and employ Kenyan artisans to produce the clothing, which is as of Fall 2010 was exclusively available in the U.S. The A/W 2010 collection included a great selection of dresses and jackets, but an online search of where to buy the brand produced just a smattering of items at Barney’s, Otte NY, and Opening Ceremony.

The label’s showing at New York Fashion Week this past Saturday, however, may have completely changed the scope of availability for the burgeoning company. According to an off-the-cuff tweet by Matches Fashion Director Bridget Cosgrove, the London-based fashion guidepost will stock pieces from the Spring/Summer 2011 collection. Cosgrove praised the “fabulous ethnic print combo’s with sophisticated twist colours” and womenswear buyer Georgina Gainza echoed the applause, calling the line “the new Dries.” If she means Dries van Noten, as I assume, that’s a pretty mighty compliment.

It will be interesting to see what ends up on the shelves (or the e-shelves for those of us with an ocean or so between us and London). See some of my favorites from the collection above and below.

via @BridgetCosgrove & @GeorginaGainza
photos: wwd.com

Smart Sale Shopping for Spring/Summer 2010

The Fashion Cult — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 22:32:34 +0000

Smart Seasonal Sale Shopping (S4). It’s about that time again – the moment in a season when your still in the thick of the climate, but stores have put the current season items on sale. These points are great opportunity moments for your wardrobe, but it’s important to approach the free-for-all with a little perspective. Otherwise, you end up spending a ton of cash on items that will only get a wear or two then end up looking stale by the time next season comes around. Instead, use sale periods to get deals on classic wardrobe staples, investment pieces, and items that will be able to wear into the next several months. If that half price item you’re drooling over falls into one of the following categories then proceed with caution. If not, then leave it on the (e)rack and save your dough for the impending Fall season’s wardrobe budget. Right: a reminder from the movie Confessions of a Shopaholic that more is not necessarily better. In the movie character’s case, more was definitely worse!

Classic Cuts
Every decades seems to have an over-the-top trend in clothing shape, but there are certain silhouettes that are timeless. A tailored shift dress is one of those that will look chic season after season, and year after year. Dresses below by Giambattista Vall, Freda, & Emma Cook. Click for info or to purchase.

Little Black Dresses
There are certain wardrobe staples that every style conscious woman should have. The little black dress ranks high among these – for it’s ease and versatility. Dresses below by Boudicca, Maxmara, & Sportmax. Click for info or to purchase.

Fall-Appropriate
If an item you buy now can still be worn 3 to 6 months from now, then it’s a good sale candidate. Granted, you may have to do some strategic layering, but these items will fit into the cool seasons just fine. Below: Jacket by Belstaff, dress by Chloe, & leather jeggings by Les Chiffoneurs. Click for info or to purchase.

Black Pumps
These shoes might not follow the list rules completely, but they come close. Black pumps are another key wardrobe staple and sale time is a great time to get a good deal on a quality pair. Shoes below by Alexander McQueen, Brian Atwood, & Marc by Marc Jacobs. Click for info or to purchase.

Investment Pieces
Sadly, we’ve seen the last of what the late Lee Alexander McQueen designed directly. Of course, the house will go on – not to mention the heavy influence he had on other designers – but the 2010 seasons represent the end of an era. Accordingly, they are sentimental and might have special worth in future years. All items below by Alexander Mcqueen. Click for info or to purchase.

Shopping Tips – When to Save, When to Splurge

The Fashion Cult — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 21:34:30 +0000

Here at The Fashion Cult, we may seem to obsess over extravagant runway item and red carpet dresses, but we’re well aware of the more down to earth side of fashion. Accordingly, we’re in the process of building a listof essentials, which the average jane can use to build a strong style foundation. In the meantime, here are a few tips to keep in mind while you do your spring shopping this year.

WHERE TO SAVE:
First and foremost, you should never spend big money on items that are overly trendy. That is, the pepto-pink lace double-breasted blazer with lame accents on the shoulders might be big fun this season, but come this time next year it will be look horribly dated and is likely to end up in the bin. Remember – no matter how expensive the garment, if it’s not relevant it’s prone to looking trashy. There are plenty of ways to participate in trends without breaking the bank. Visit stores like Topshop, H&M, and Target to pick up pieces that are hot now, but sure to cool off within months. Even better if you catch one of these stores on sale. Another good place to go for trends is your local thrift store. This is especially true if you’re looking to emulate retro-inspired trends. You might even stumble onto a hidden gem like a piece of vintage Dior for 3 bucks (true story!).

WHEN TO SPLURGE:
While I always enjoy a good deal, I firmly believe that a good wardrobe consists primarily of high-quality staple items. This means that you will need to invest a bit more cash in the pieces your wear consistently season after to season. Now unless you’re a celebrity, a socialite, or the unfortunate recipient of a weekly wedding invitation, things like jewels and evening wear may not make it onto your list of staples. For most modern women staples include things like a pencil skirt, a signature scent, and a pair of nice jeans, however your essentials should reflect your lifestyle so tailor it accordingly. If you absolutely must splurge on a special occasion item, opt for something that’s got classic shape and style.

For more shopping tips, visit Shop-Anon.com

Remembering McQueen VIDEO

The Fashion Cult — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 18:02:41 +0000

See the playlist below for 18 shows from Alexander McQueen, dating back to 2005.

Get your own piece of fashion history: Shop clothing and accessories for men and women by Alexander McQueen.

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Alexander McQueen – 236720BCU0Y (Navy / Red) – Bags and Luggage

Zappos.com is proud to offer the Alexander McQueen – 236720BCU0Y (Navy / Red) – Bags and Luggage: Get your kicks on the wrong side of the tracks! You’ve tried being a good girl, but the playing with fire was more fun! Incinerate your image with the blazing bonfire of beauty that is this Alexander McQueen™ handbag! ; Stunning shoulder bag made of leather. ; Holds your wallet, keys, lipstick, mints, and a slim cell phone. ; Single shoulder strap. Shoulder drop: 23 length. ; Snap flap exterior pockets. ; Zipper-toothed edging. ; Hypnotically repeated circular pattern stylishly stitched at the bottom edge. ; Platform bottom. ; Top zip closure. ; Interior lining with a back wall slip pocket. ; Dimensions: 9 wide x 2 1/2 deep x 8 high. ; Made in Italy. ; 11.00 oz.

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Alexander McQueen – McQ Blue Plaid Motorcycle Jacket (Blue) – Apparel

Zappos.com is proud to offer the Alexander McQueen – McQ Blue Plaid Motorcycle Jacket (Blue) – Apparel: Do you have a checkered past? Do your arithmetic and dress to the nines blazing into the fierce future wrapped in this magnificent McQ™ Blue Plaid Motorcycle Jacket! ; Banded collar with double snap button closure. ; Double zipper front closure. ; Long sleeves with zippered ends. ; Zippered front pockets. ; Lower front welt pockets. ; Straight cut bottom hem. ; Inner chest pocket. ; 51% cotton and 49% wool. ; Body lining: 100% cotton. ; Sleeve lining: 100% viscose. ; Body padding: 100% polyester. ; Sleeve padding: 40% viscose, 40% polyester, and 20% wool. ; Dry clean only. ; Made in Italy. ; Product measurements were taken using size 50 (US 40). Please note that measurements may vary by size.

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WISHLIST: Net-a-Porter.com Sweepstakes

The Fashion Cult — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 04:10:44 +0000

Netaporter.com is celebrating it’s 1,000,000th customer by giving a chunk of change back to it’s loyal following. Enter here. There’s no purchase required, but expect to get emails from the site on a regular basis.

I love the little piano tune playing in the promo. The song is “Frenchy” by Linda Martinez. Buy it on

See my wishlist *fingers crossed* – What would you buy if you won?

Spring/Summer 2010 Shoe Trend: WRAPPED

The Fashion Cult — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 05:51:55 +0000

Clockwise from bottom left: Fendi, Givenchy, Pierre Hardy, Vera Wang, Fendi

Although the weather is still frosty, Spring shopping is upon us and close to the top of any seasonal shopping list are shoes. This Spring many designers are wrapping the foot in high-style bandages. From velvet to leather to lyrca shoes are getting the swaddled treatment creating, a chic balance between casual and glam.

Cure for the Common Cold: COATS!

The Fashion Cult — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 19:07:40 +0000

This January in the U.S. has seen record low temps from Maine to Miami. Even those of us that are used to getting away with coffee and a cashmere scarf to keep us warm in winter months are having to bundle up against frigid temps and *gasp* snow!

Definitely, this is one malady that fashion can fix. And with the season nearing it’s end (in fashion terms) sales on coats and things are in abundance. Check out this assortments of cold-weather lovelies currently on sale at farfetch.com.

Shorties
For Southern belles, who think cold is anything below 50 degrees (Fahrenheit).
L: UNDERCOVER – Wool & leather panel jacket

R: RICK OWENS – Peak shoulder shearling jacket

Checked
To add some prep to your winter step.
L: MCQ BY ALEXANDER MCQUEEN – Check pattern double breasted coat

R: ETRO – Duffle coat

Cloaked
For a bit of mystery in your winter wardrobe.
L: JEAN PAUL GAULTIER – Wool cloak

R: BEYOND THE VALLEY – Harris tweed cape

Fur-trimmed
Because reasonable fur is both practical and glamourous.
L: DIOR – Fur collar coat

R: ETRO – Fur trim parka

Uniformed
For the many sartorial soldiers out there. Keep up the fight!
L: RED VALENTINO – Military trench

R: GUCCI – Military coat

Cinched
To remind the world that there’s still plenty of va-voom under all those layers
L: MIRIAM OCARIZ – double-breasted houndstooth coat

R: HACHE – Salt and pepper coat

NYE 2009: Wardrobe Splurge VS. Save

The Fashion Cult — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 22:42:01 +0000

Catherine Malandrino Silk-chiffon mini dress, $625 at net-a-porter.com
Christian Louboutin Straratata 140 glitter sandals, $1,045 at mytheresa.com
Inge Christopher Hard Case Snake Clutch, $144 at lorisshoes.com
Vanessa Bruno Mongolian goat stole, $186 at theoutnet.com
Anita Ko 18-karat gold Panther studs, $1,380 at net-a-porter.com
Dominic Jones Claw Ring, $479 at brownsfashion.com
TOTAL: $3,859 (plus shipping!)

Lipsy Tiger Print Dress, $62 at Oli Online
ROYE, $50 at aldoshoes.com
Bright pink silk piped clutch bag, $32 at debenhams.com
Colorful Agate Earrings, $24 at urbanoutfitters.com
metallic shine tights, $28 at calvinklein.com
TOTAL: $196 (plus shipping!)