Feb 1, 2009 | Fashion, Media
With such a fashionable, model-tall First Lady newly in the White House, the buzz surrounding her sartorial sensibilities is proof that fashion and the national mood go hand in hand. To get Michelle Obama’s effortless American-chic look, go for clean, classic cuts, bold colors and patterns, and opt for minimal jewelry – a few smaller pieces speak volumes. Also, like the First Lady, pay attention to the details: the color of a coat’s lining (think the
Narciso Rodriguez pre-inauguration camel coat); a belt cinched over an unbuttoned cardigan; a brooch pinned dead-center on the collar of the dress instead of near the shoulder. All add stylish flair and a touch of individuality to whatever you’re wearing, and yet you will still appear appropriate, ladylike and polished.
Here are our Top 5 well-priced (ie. under $100) picks for staples seen on Mrs. O, plus a fun splurge:
1. CLASSIC COAT & FUN ACCENTS We’ve seen a variety of fabulously chic toppers on Mrs. O from a number of designers, ranging from Maria Pinto to Sonia Rykiel to Narciso Rodriguez. What she obviously looks for in a coat is wool, a long A-line silhouette that’s single-breasted, a solid color, and sometimes a dramatic sleeve. Our pick: a timeless camel classic you’ll reach for time and time (and time and time…) again. Accessorize with a dark navy or black scarf, a jumbled beaded necklace a la the First Lady’s Tom Binns necklace, or, if you’re feeling patriotic, a teeny flag pin (made less cheesy by merit of lots of real bling, like this version crafted from diamonds, rubies & sapphires in 18k white gold from HeavenlyTreasures.com). Single-Breasted Long Wool Coat $99.99 (on sale, was $239) – available in Camel, Chocolate, Blackberry, Winter White & Red – at Chadwicks.com.
STYLE TIP: According to reviews of this coat, it’s quite long, so be sure to take it to your fave tailor and get it shortened to the perfect length for you….after all, it’s what Mrs. O would do.
2. COLORFUL MULTI-TASKING SHEATH Lemongrass, sea blue, fire red, fuschia, cobalt, chartreuse, and bottle green…just a few of the bright colors we’ve seen her in. The most popular, however, is probably the iconic purple Maria Pinto sheath she appeared in on the cover of Newsweek. To work similarly vibrant colors into your own wardrobe, follow her style savvy by also choosing a classic silhouette, typically a sheath with princess-seams, a conservative jewel neckline, and flattering knee length. With the right accessories, it’s a cinch to completely transform this wardrobe mainstay: try a high black belt and pearls, a dark-toned cardigan and slick patent pumps, or a looped silk scarf and python-print clutch. Sheath Dress $49 – available in Vibrant Fuschia, Black & Red – at Newport-News.com.
STYLE TIP: The more wild the print or color of a garment, the more timeless its cut & silhouette should be. The tension between the edgy hue and conservative cut is what creates balance, making you look fashionably trendy instead of faddish & fashion-victim’ish.
3. GLITTERY BROOCH The Carole Tannenbaum vintage pin on the center-front of the chartreuse lace Isabel Toledo Inauguration Day dress (be sure to scroll down) was one-of-a-kind, but you can take inspiration from Michelle Obama’s unusual placement choice by pinning a similar sparkling brooch in the same place. For best results, pair with a round-collared coat. This bow-shaped brooch is adorned with Austrian crystal rhinestones in marquise and round cuts, in a shape that is simultaneously contemporary and classic, (not to mention collectible). Eisenberg Ice Bow Pin $45 at MRJewelry.net.
STYLE TIP: For even more unusual ways to wear a sparkly pin, try pinning a wide satin ribbon at your waist instead of a belt, perhaps threading it through a cardigan’s buttonholes as a makeshift closure, or even pinning onto a cashmere beret Gossip Girl-style.
4. LIGHTWEIGHT CARDI Although the J. Crew cardigan ensemble she wore to the Kids Inaugural concert is already sold out, you can still get the punchy color from Gap’s new line in collaboration with Pantone. Chock full of Crayola colors and vibrant hues, it’s a guaranteed way to breathe some fresh life into the doldrums of a flagging economy (not to mention your wardrobe). Superfine cotton and slimmer fit emphasize a feminine figure, while the staggering array of colors – sunny yellow to sorbet orange, tan to teal, black to heather gray – means you’re guaran
teed to find something you love. And the best part? This closet staple is lightweight enough to be worn year-round, making it a sound investment as a layering essential. The new V-neck Cardigan $44 at Gap.com. 
(Michelle Obama image: dailymail.co.uk)
STYLE TIP: Pair your brightly colored cardi with shoes in a darker hue & a contrasting skirt; snappy combinations include yellow & jewel blue, royal blue& orange sorbet, and spring green with light coral. For an added touch of First Lady fab, cinch with a thin belt worn high on the natural waistline.
5. PATENT BALLET FLATS Steal a page from the Michelle Obama style playbook by pairing a structured dress with an understated flat. Whether you choose go-with-everything black, a metallic snakeskin to rock the season’s reptilian trend, or even sweet white satin, you’ll look Mrs. O-perfect whether you’re in a chic frock, more mod with bright tights and a mini, or slouching casually out the door in cuffed boyfriend jeans. Keepsake black crinkle-patent flats $59.00 at SteveMadden.com. 
STYLE TIP: Gently rounded-toe ballet flats are one of the best fashion investments you can make…ever. They are versatile, comfy, and because you can wear them for years, they quickly pay for themselves.
Splurge of the Week: ONE-SHOULDERED GOWN Although she wears many high-end designers, one of the best facets of Mrs. O’s style is that she mixes high with low, proudly sporting pieces from affordable retailers. While the one-shouldered Jason Wu confection she wore to the Inaugural Ball is probably out of most of our pricepoints – a typical Wu evening gown retails between $3,000-$6,000, and the designer has no plans to reproduce the dress for sale – try a similar style that was featured on Inside Edition from eDressMe.com. Even though it only costs about a tenth as much, this version still features a single ruched shoulder with embellishment, a high waist, and a floor-length skirt, as well as tiny flowered sequins similar to the hand-sewn flowers on Mrs. O’s custom dress. One-shoulder white gown $320 at eDressMe.com. 
STYLE TIP: With a dress this gorge, the only thing appropriate would be a miniscule white evening clutch to let the ball gown’s beauty shine on its own.
If there are any high-priced pieces you’d like me to find similar, less costly versions of, please email me at carlyjcais AT fashiontribes DOT com.
– by Carly J. Cais, Fashiontribes Contributing Editor
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Jan 19, 2009 | Media
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer & ChicSteals blog
As a designer, I’ve developed an eye for style over the years along with an appreciation for the fact that sometimes, designer pricetags can be downright scary. While life necessitates a splurge once in a while on that
can’t-live-without-it fabulous item, much of the fun of fashion is mixing high with low to create outfits that are creative, and also budget-friendly. Each week, I showcase five hot designer-style steals (each for $100 or, in most cases, for much, much less)…along with one must-splurge item.
If the wild, wintery winds of January are making you want to blow off to warmer climes, you’re in luck – fashionably-speaking! The Resort ’09 Collections were brimming with bold, ocean-inspired hues, colorblocking, and fun, tropical prints. And as you dream of escaping to balmy skies and lounging on the beach, remember: the last burden you need schlep is too much luggage.
To pack the ultimate versatility into your excursion, try these five picks for frugal, fabulous resort wear:
SHINY SANDALS Always pack two pairs of sandals: one ratty pair for the beach, and one fabulous pair to wear everywhere else. At $20, this shimmery embellished wedge is as affordable as it is chic (plus it’s vegan – score!) paired with everything from an animal-print caftan, city shorts & a safari-style tee, or with a black silk slipdress that clings in all the right places. Coordinating chandelier earrings and poolside Mai Tai optional…but highly recommended. Regan Sandal $20 at Payless.com. 
BREEZY TUNIC Since packing light means versatility, a billowy, graphic blue & white tunic promises to be just as at home in jungles urban or tropical. The pintucks create a semi-fitted shape that looks fab tucked into some cigarette pants, or paired with a matching jacket for that laid-back office vibe. But cinch with a braided gold belt and pair over some super-short shorts, and the look is all apres-beach and pre-dinner cruise. City-Style Tunic $26 at NYandCompany.com.
SEXY EARRINGS Whether you acquired your tan on the beach or from a bottle, a color like aqua is one of the best ways to show it off – especially if you’re rocking texturized, sun-streaked hair. The understated length of these dangly cerulean earrings pops against your jawline, looking beachy-chic whether you’re actually on vacation…or merely planning it in a white buttondown and a black (or brown) suit. Turquoise Stone Earrings $20 at AVMaxAccessories.com.
TEENY WEENY BIKINI Coming in at #8 on Nina Garcia’s list of the Top 100 pieces no stylish woman is without (pg. 25 of The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own),
a bikini is what you’ll want to wear under everything on vacation (who needs bras and panties anyway??). In white with a sweet dot-print, this Tiki set offers adjustable coverage in front, and Brazilian coverage in the back. Sexy underneath a sheer caftan; sultry peeking out from under that tight minidress. Kon Tiki Tiki Tri Bikini Top & Bottom ($64 for the set) at Roxy.com.
SAFARI SKIRT Safari resonated throughout the spring resort collections, and we particularly love the bold splash of color at the hem of this chic skirt. Pair with a simple white tee and espadrilles while chilaxing; with a dark blazer when you’re back in the office. Or, for full-on 2009 safari style, go the Sarah Jessica Parker route in Sex & the City with a sheer top and a belted vest. Still long to be on vacation? Be sure to also pick up the alternate color, in a lovely aqua with a deep lagoon stripe at the bottom. Pleated Skirt $73 at Tulle4us.com (one of our fave sources of casual chic threads for work and play).
*Splurge of the Week: FUN FLORAL FROCK A highly important part of a stress-free holiday is heading straight from the pool or beach to swanky cocktails without any annoying obstacles to getting your drink on…such as getting nailed for “improper” attire. Toss this slightly retro frock on over your swimsuit, tuck an exotic flower behind your ear, and be prepared to tango past the velvet rope and straight onto the dance floor. Les Jardin print dress $165 at eDressMe.com. 
If there a
re any high-priced pieces you’d like me to find similar, less costly versions of, please email me at carlyjcais AT fashiontribes DOT com.
– Carly J. Cais
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Dec 25, 2008 | Fashion, Life, Media
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer & ChicSteals blog
As a designer I’ve developed an eye for style over the years, and an appreciation for the fact that sometimes, designer pricetags can be downright scary. While life necessitates a splurge once in a while on that can’t-live-without-it fabulous item, much of the fun of fashion is mixing high with low to create outfits that are creative, and also budget-friendly. Each week, I showcase five hot designer-style steals (each for $100 or, in most cases, for much, much less)…along with one must-splurge item.
Since all year we focus on getting that look for less, at least once an annum we indulge in dreaming of getting that look…for, well – gasp! – retail. And the holidays are the perfect time to indulge in sparkly dresses, sleek clutches, and feminine toppers.Inspired by our fave celebs and fabulous fashionistas, here’s our fantasy a-girl-can-dream wish list of five fashionable items for the perfect holiday look, plus a festive splurge:
LIQUID LEGGINGS From Mischa Barton to Kate Bosworth to Lauren Conrad, the ruched Black Rats by Sass & Bide have become a favorite Hollywood way of showing off their gym-toned gams. The subtle wet-look sheen updates the quintessential legging, making it modern and sleek whether paired with a tunic, oversize tee, or black drapey top and black blazer for an Olson-sister-inspired look. Sass & Bide Black Rats leggings $180 at Net-a-Porter.com.
(Chic Steal: The $21 ING Faux Leather Legging from Macys.com)
BROOCH-DETAIL PUMPS Show off your fabulous legs (or leggings) in perfectly pointy and tres Audrey Hepburn-esque pumps. The 3″ heel is the perfect counterpoint to the retro-chic brooch at the front, and Audrey would have no doubt appreciated the iconic red sole, courtesy of Monsieur Louboutin. (To get the look for a tad less, pick up a pair of affordable satin pumps like the Abaete for Payless Zoey ribbon-weave pump and add a shoe-clip or a vintage-style brooch – Sorrelli makes an eyecatching crystal-cluster pin.)
We love this look for evening or everyday glam with a pair of skinny jeans or with a pair of bold cobalt Hue tights. Christian Louboutin Satin Brooch Pump $865 at FootCandyShoes.com. (Chic Shoe Steal: Satin Rosette Peep-Toe Heel $23 from GoJane.com)
SEQUINED DRESS You heard it here first: sequins are a huge trend for celebs & the rest of us for 2009, especially sequin shift dresses. The sweet design and shrunken shape are just perfect for a holiday fete…even if you leave the bow at home for fear of looking like a human Xmas package. Perfect with slightly sheer dark tights, bare legs (if you dare), or even under a military-style jacket and jeans for day (trust us – it really works!). L’Ecole Des Femmes Sequin Bow Dress $218 (sale) at ASOS.com. (Chic Steal: Sequin Minidress $40 at Forever21.com)
CHEERY TRENCH Make like Jessica Simpson and inspire a bit of Holiday spirit in a festive bright red trench. The tailoring and shape create a feminine silhouette, and the fact it’s from Fendi means it will keep you in chic style for a long while. Pair with slim-cut drapey pants in a contrasting white, or try a coordinating print dress and oversized earrings. Fendi Cotton Twill Trench $1850 at eLuxury.com. (Chic Steal: Animal-Lined Trench Coat $90 from Spiegel.com)
EDGY CLUTCH Birds of a fashion feather – like Rachel Bilson – know that a fabulous, custom-made clutch in is just the thing to cure the holiday blues. This retro redux number by Antoinette Lee – fans include Gwyneth Paltrow and Heidi Montag – is the perfect size for carrying all your essentials plus necessary extras, and it features a detachable cuff that’s like a separate piece of jewelry all by itself (not to mention built-in security). Whether paired with a tee tunic and leggings or a short frilly frock, when cuffed on, you will literally be a slave to your fabulous purse. Lua Chain Clutch $271 from StarsandInfiniteDarkness.com. (Chic Steal: purple faux leather (vegan!) Julie clutch $33 at Amazon.com)
STEAL OF THE WEEK: PAVE MOON NECKLACE The best things really do come in small packages, and sometimes even with a small pricetag. This $40 crescent moon pave necklace in a rhodium finish looks luxurious and fabulous – a la Jennifer Aniston. Ultra-thin, ultra-light, and ultra-affordable, the 1.5″ sparkle at your throat would look equally chic with a celeb-worthy LBD, or even at the collar of a cozy pointelle-knit cardigan. Crescent Moon Necklace $40 from PortiaJewelry.com.
And our ultra-steal of the week that costs nothing to wish for? World peace, of course, and Goodwill to all! Happy Holidays from all of us here at ChicSteals and Fashiontribes.com – and may 2009 be an even more wonderful year for all of you.
– Carly J. Cais
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Dec 16, 2008 | Media
Carly’s Chic Steals & Fashion Deals of the Week: Winter White by
carlyjcais
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer & ChicSteals blog
As a designer, I’ve developed an eye for style over the years, and an appreciation for the fact that sometimes, designer pricetags can be downright scary. While life necessitates a splurge once in a while on that
can’t-live-without-it fabulous item, much of the fun of fashion is mixing high with low to create outfits that are creative, and also budget-friendly. Each week, I showcase five hot designer-style steals (each for $100 or, in most cases, for much, much less)…along with one must-splurge item.
When the dark days of winter descend, the tendancy is pile on equally dark colors. Instead, why not bring a little cheeriness to all that dreariness in shades of tone-on-tone white, bone, cream, ice, dove, ecru, eggshell, and ivory.
Here are our five picks for a fabulous White Winter – and all affordable enough to indulge in some guilt-free holiday treats for yourself:
SPARKLY CARDIGAN Although it’s the season to sparkle, a little shine goes a long way; here, a sprinkle of bling at the shoulder makes this one different than most embellished cardis (which typically focus on the hem or the neck), as well as fabric-covered buttons which are a nice touch given the $25 pricetag. The V-neck is perfect for showing off sexy collarbones and framing a vintage necklace with a jumble of charms, while feminine 3/4 sleeves flatter anyone from a petite to a plus-size. Dress it up with a floor-length satin full-skirt or toss over dark-rinse bootcuts and contrasting cami for a day downtown picking up presents for everyone on your list. Limited-Edition Beaded Cardigan $25 at Target.com.
80s SUEDE BOOTIE Girls just wanna have fun in these slouchy boots…after all, who didn’t want to be Helent Hunt in her fabulous reversible Catholic school uniform or SJP in her crazy hot-pink leggings with her fabulous cartwheels and flips? The foldover design and tab detail at the back makes the silhouette different depending on whether you’re coming or going – which is easy in the moderately high heel. Soft, buttery suede and a goes-with-everything hue means you’ll have no trouble pairing them with light gray, chocolate brown, or black – be it your fave jeans, a ripped mini, or a pleated tartan skirt. Wanna have more fun-fun-fun? Try some festive pink leggings! Lesedi Boots, $59.98 (sale), MySpringShoes.com.
DELICATE NECKLACE Much the way a bird feathers her nest, this sweet pendant was fashioned out of scraps of white crochet that the designer just happened to have lying around. Three freshwater pearl “eggs” nicely balance the polish of the densely-woven silver wire nest, creating a dainty accent peeking out from the open collar of a thick-knit cardy, or over a thin a thin gray camisole and loose drawstring pants, decorating your decollete over while you’re just lounging around. Choose your number of pearls, type of wire, and length of necklace for a piece that’s made-to-order and one-of-a-kind…kind of like you. Sparrow’s Nest necklace $56 at Etsy.com.
FABULOUS, FLOWY SLACKS Whether for work or play, every woman needs a perfect pair of go-to pants. These flattering, slightly-flared trousers would look equally chic paired with a dark blazer for work or matched with a loose silk top for an elegant evening out. We love the unique tonal silken stripe at the waist, and the fact that they look equally good with platform wedges or a delicate strappy sandal. And yes, they’re lined, so no need to worry about any unsightly show-through. These will definitely get you through a whole holiday season worth of soirees and fetes, and become one of the backbones of your well-rounded closet. Legacy Tux Pant $98 – available in sizes ranging from 00-14 – at WhiteHouseBlackMarket.com.
I’M NOT A FASHION DRONE ECO-TOTE So many eco totes being toted around, so little individuality. Why not try a personalized piece, with retro-fab tiny tot silhouettes and your own name printed on the front? In black with silver or navy with gold options as well, you can add your own name and the name of a loved one. Or, for $30 less, opt for no personalization at all and still walk away with a coolly minimalist piece. Boy Meets Girl Cotton Tote (with personalization) $48 at RavinStyle.com.
SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: FANCY PRINCESS COAT As seen on celeb after celeb, the coat of the season is high-waisted with a princess-style A-line cut. And for good reason: it’s incredibly versatile. Fold up the collar for a Mata Hari-inspired woman-of-mystery vibe, envelope the top half in swathes of cashmere wraps, or belt and wear tailored and practical over a sharp suit…the possibilities are endless. Available in a staggering array of sizes (petite AND regular, 0-14), colors (winter white, pearl pink, dove, raspberry, teal, black, red, camel, charcoal, pine, and purple), patterns (solid, tartan, or herringbone), and fabrics (solid wool AND slubbed twill), so you’re sure to find one you love. For a quality winter coat in a timeless, trendproof shape, $130 is both affordable and a great investment. Double-Breated A-Line Coat $129 at VictoriasSecret.com.
If there are any high-priced pieces you’d like me to find similar, less costly versions of, please email me at carlyjcais AT fashiontribes DOT com. ‘Til next week, fellow bargain-hunters!
Carly J. Cais
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Dec 4, 2008 | Life, Media
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer & ChicSteals blog
As a designer I’ve developed an eye for style over the years, and an appreciation for the fact that sometimes, designer pricetags can be downright scary. While life necessitates a splurge once in a while on that
can’t-live-without-it fabulous item, much of the fun of fashion is mixing high with low to create outfits that are creative, and also budget-friendly. Each week, I showcase five hot designer-style steals (each for $100 or, in most cases, for much, much less)…along with one must-splurge item.
Upcoming festive gatherings with relatives, family, significant others, in-laws…what a fashion nightmare! Your perfect go-to ensembles for romantic dinners a deux don’t cut it when you’re dining with Aunt Leda, her gaggle of cousins, and the odd parent – so what’s a girl to wear? Fear not!
With these easy pieces, it’s easy to dress, impress, and look both classy and chic – all without spending a bundle:
Family-Friendly Fashion for Hols with the Fam by Fashiontribes
FLORAL TUNIC Since we’re saving the curve-highlighting sex kitten look for another occasion, try this flowy versatile tunic. The fun print rescues it from the clutches of baggy and boring, while well-placed accessories keep things chic. Wear as-is over textured tights and knee-high boots, or add some shape with a dark, low slung belt. Don’t forget a long chain necklace to pull it all together…just try to keep it from dangling in the gravy boat during dinner. Floral Tunic Dress $29 (sale) at Newport-News.com
RETRO BOOTIE Play off the slightly 60ish vibe of the tunic with these undeniably groovy booties. In mod maroon, the contrasting suede and crinkle patent really stand out – especially with an outfit in monochrome or muted hues. To channel Twiggy, pair with a white shift, black leggings & mini gloves, or go the Nicole Richie route in acid-wash zip-ankle denim, a tie-waist sweater, and piles of scarves. Any way you wear them, these little booties truly a festive statement make. Zoe Patent Button Boot $38 at Payless.com
PLAID COAT Mixing two bold patterns and making both of them look chic is definitely not Fashion 101, but the subdued tones of this coat would work well even with the bright flowered print of the tunic. What makes this coat a catch are the epaulet details at the shoulders (fantastic!), the double-breasted front, and structured belt – all of which make it look far more expensive than it really is. Reaching to just above the knee, this little trench looks fab in all sorts of weather: belt without buttoning over a swingy dress, or on cold blustery days, turn up the collar up and add a dark bucket hat. On sale for $30 off, it is a fashionable steal – and mother-approved. Double-Breasted Plaid Coat $100 (sale) at Mandee.com
KNIT BANGLES Chunky knit bangles are everywhere this season, and available at every pricepoint, from Elizabeth Yarborough’s elegant version for $190, to the recycled cashmere pieces for $30 at BuildANest.com, to a serviceable garden-variety version from Claire’s for $10. Better yet: pick ’em up by the armload at Old Navy, where they come in a rainbow of eyecatching colors for a bargain-basement price of $5.50…for three! Stack on one arm over a tight-fitting turtleneck, peeking out from under the billowing sleeve of a dolman dress, or with any slinky, form-fitting looks. However, don’t pair them with a bulky sweater as that classifies as complete overkill. Set of 3 Sweater Bracelets, $5.50 (sale) OldNavy.com 
BOLD COCKTAIL RING If organic, inspiring forms are your thing, check out Twisted Silver’s elegantly twisted selection of button cocktail rings, mixed metal bag charms and chain-link earrings in a variety of metals. This 1″ ring evokes both flora and coffee bean in its undulating, symmetrical lines, while the raw brass imparts a modern feel. To highlight the bronze gleam, pair with warm neutrals, such as a deep-V cardigan in cream and a pair of brown cords. Life Ring $40 at TwisterSilver.com
SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: Slouchy Leather Bag Every once in awhile, you come across a bag that you know is going to be your go-to accessory of the season – like this chic Orly bag from the new Jewels by Julie Knapp line. The slouchy shape eliminates that oh-so-familiar digging around for something in the bottom, and the ruched leather hobo comes in coal black, wine, and rich brown to complement almost all outfits. We love the brass ring at the closure, complete with contrasting snakeskin inlay (animal skins are hot-hot-hot this year). Pair with a 70’s-flare jean and blousy drawstring tunic, a dark fedora and cropped blazer, or go for contrasts all in sleek black from head to toe. Orly hobo $200 (sale) at LeFashionista.com
If there are any high-priced pieces you’d like me to find similar, less costly versions of, please email me at carlyjcais AT fashiontribes DOT com. ‘Til next week, fellow bargain-hunters!
-Carly J. Cais
(Gossip Girl photo at top: Giovanni Rufino/The CW ©2008 The CW Network)
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