A Tale of Two Price Points

I'd like to tell you a quick story about perspective. In the shop I run, we carry a line of pretty pricey jewelry. A substantial, semi-precious and sterling necklace can run you upward of $500. These pieces are 100% worth the money, hand-crafted by artisans who work within a small, socially conscious co-op. They plant trees and donate a generous percentage of their profits to various organizations and to groups in crisis. Not to mention the fact that their baubles are absolutely beautiful, one-of-a-kind, and timeless.

A few weeks ago I was working with a 20-something who was wearing a necklace reminiscent of those selling in the shop. I admired it and she informed me that she got it at Forever 21. The necklace most likely ran her around $14.90 + tax and, upon further inspection, I found that it was made of brass colored plastic that reads as metal and clear plastic beads that read as quartz. In her rush to make her purchase that day, she left her knock-off hanging in my fitting room. I've worn it around the shop a couple of times while waiting for her to return to claim it. Each time I wear it people compliment me on it and ask if I sell it in the shop, some even going to far as to ask if it was made by the crafstmen mentioned above.

The moral of the story is this: don't fret if you can't afford to drop $500 on a gorgeous necklace or designer handbag right now. Pay your rent, buy organic produce, and get yourself a nice knock-off. Wear it with pride and no one will know the difference. And when you find an investment piece that won't stop calling to you, save your pennies and indulge...because you're worth it! And it will be that much more worth it to you because you took your time, thought it through, and acted responsibly and within your budget.

Happy shopping fashionistas!!

Sunday Style Solution - "Why go bare when you can wear nude fishnets?"

Fishnets are no longer just for the goth girl, the exotic dancer, and the Halloween costume.Whether your look is classic, ultra-girlie, punk chic, or low-key, nude (skin tone) textured hosiery has a place in your wardrobe. They work all year round and are at the same time a little playful, very chic, and a lot sexy!

* Wear standard nude fishnets with a skirt suit or classic trench for a quick nod to high fashion and the fact that you may not be as conservative as you first appear (while at the same time maintaining work appropriate dress: from far away your leg will read nude...it isn't until you're close up and paying attention that the texture really pops.) 

* Girlie girls, kick up the femme-factor by pairing a flirty, flouncy, printed skirt with a large weave nude fishnet (often referred to as diamond net, fence net, or large net) and a provocative peep toe pump...va va va voom! (standard fishnet pictured - and remember, no matter large or small the net, if you're showing the little piggies make sure you have a fresh pedicure!)

* To create an edgy, urban look, how about a pencil skirt, nude fishnets (maybe even with a back seam!), and ankle booties with your choice of top? Something shredded out will satiate your inner punk princess, while a cozy, long sleeve tunic sweater will add a pop of polish.

* For the more timid trendster, start with a knee-length walking short, standard nude fishnets and a cute ballet flat with a drapey tank or tee. Perfect for weekend brunch, afternoon shopping, or casual first date! (This is my spring style suggestion. For fall, wear nude fishnets - or a nude textured tight if it's chilly outside - instead of your standard opaque tight with boots and a skirt!)

The most important part is to OWN IT. Wear the look with confidence and you'll feel stylish and saucy, and the compliments will roll on in!

Extra Credit: post a pic of YOU rocking your favorite nude textured hose...I can't wait to see what you come up with!