May 16, 2008 | Fashion, Media
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer & ChicSteals blog
As a designer – my line is
RIVETED Clothing & Accessories – I’ve developed an eye for style over the years…and right along with it, a nose for a bargain. Half the fun of fashion is looking fabulous without needing to declare bankruptcy. Each week, I showcase hot designer-style steals (each for $100 or, in most cases, for much, much less)…along with one splurge-worthy item.
This summer, be the envy of the crowd in a cute suit. There are tons of pre-Summer sales to choose from, making this the time to snag some swimwear for a song. Here are five ways to stay cool by the pool or brave the waves in style this season:
- OMBRE EVERYWHERE Reminiscent of 60’s tie-dye, but updated for 2008, this alluring gradiant color-wash – seen on all the A-list spring runways – has found its way to swimwear. Fade from seaweed-green to sandy-gold in a hot-hot-hot little side-tie triangle…and for strutting down the beach at your most fabulous, pair with white accessories – especially bangles, sunglasses, and a caftan. Victoria’s Secret Very Sexy Ombre Sliding Triangle Top & String bottom – $38 (each).
- MOLTO MONOKINI – aka side cut-out suits – provide the stay-put-ness and tummy coverage of a one-piece, with a healthy dose of skin-baring sex appeal. Say ahoy in the nautical chic of a striped-top and anchor print bottom, which is also available in an extended-torso version for $40 from Delias…which means you can set sail looking fab, but with your swim budget still intact.
- SEXY HARDWARE Gold rings, silver brooches, jeweled dangles…metallic accents add a fabulously shiny touch to this year’s suits. Even modest swimwear gets glam with something hard thrown into the mix, however, for hardcore sex appeal, this down-to-there monokini with an enticing trail of O-rings provides just enough coverage to leave him breathless. For sunset cocktails, simply tie on a low-slung pareo and head for the cabana. 3-ring monokini – on sale for $35 (was $70) at Carabella.com.
- BOLD GRAPHICS Prints are a major trend this season, especially over-sized, brightly colored and eyecatching. From floral to psychedlic, a fab one-stop shopping option is Venus Swimwear, which carries a staggering array of styles, colors, and sizes. The Mocha Java print two-piece is simultaneously sophisticated and mod…just add a breezy coverup and some glistening gold-flecked body oil. For just over $55 from Venus.com, the price is definitely right.
- RETRO GIRLIE GIRL Make a splash in a high-waisted pin-up number from MyBabyJo.com, one of the best online sources for retro chic. The halter-neck supports and accentuates your curves, and the boy-cut bottom conceals the tummy-control panel within…so all bystanders will see is you looking slim and trim. For added bonus points: coat your nails in lipstick-red polish. Two-piece cherry-print suit – $70 at MyBabyJo.com.
- SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: AN ICONIC DESIGNER For the perfect suit, sometimes it’s worth investing in a tried-and-true designer label. DVF does not disappoint with an itsy-bitsy bikini in an on-trend (but not overly trendy) safari’ish print. Diane Von Furstenberg Stone String Bikini – $175 at IntermixOnline.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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May 9, 2008 | Media
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer
As a designer – my line is
RIVETED Clothing & Accessories – I’ve developed an eye for style over the years…and right along with it, a nose for a bargain. Half the fun of fashion is looking fabulous without needing to declare bankruptcy. Each week, I showcase hot designer-style steals (each for $100 or, in most cases, for much, much less)…along with one splurge-worthy item.
Since beach season is almost upon us, now is a great time to drop some cash on cute workout threads that will motivate you to drop some poundage.
Looking cute will help your workout from becoming stale, and not only are these five fab finds functional, they’re as easy on the wallet:
CELLULITE-BUSTING BOTTOMSThese leg-bettering compression shorts will also give you a, well, leg up on regular spandex bicycle shorts! Wear them under your workout clothes, and while you’re logging miles on the stairmaster, their patented mesh wave boosts blood circulation, helping slim and tone your lower half. They’re also infused with antibacterial silver ions which not only aid in detoxifying the skin, but mean there’s no stinky sweat residue. And at $45, they won’t make a dent in your savings. Solidea Silver Wave Micro-Massaging Bottoms available at BlissWorld.com.
PERFORMANCE FLEECE Not all fleeces were created equal. This Lands’ End ThermaCheck 100 jacket is wind-resistant and fights static cling for as long as you have it. The variety of zip-pockets will help keep you organized while the princess seaming makes for a flattering, feminine fit. But wait, there’s more! They’ll not only send you free fleece swatches, but you can use the virtual model to “try” it on…all for $25 (not to mention the best customer service…ever). Available at LandsEnd.com.
CUTE SWEATS
Not runway ready…but cropped, cozy, and on sale for $10 at OldNavy.com.
GLAMOROUS EARBUDS Bring a much-needed dose of Beyonce to that rugged, steel-covered and polyurethane-padded place – aka the The Gym. Yes, you could spend around $50, but why, when there’s a perfectly good lookalike pair from JC Penney for $4.
WIRED WEAR While bling improves the fabulous quotient of your iPod, holding onto your player in a death-grip as you navigate the mean streets on your morning job…not so fabulous. This cool, iPod-friendly tee has a special sleeve-pocket for your gadget, as well as a headphone loop in back to stay tangle-free. An invisible front zipper lets you cool down when your workout heats up, and the fabric wicks away sweat, keeping your music where it’s supposed to be and you from missing a beat. Sugoi M-Wired T-Shirt $60 at Amazon.com
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SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: A McGUYVER WATCH It may look like a cute watch, but it counts your strength training sets, tracks your weights, stores your progress and calories burned over a series of workouts, provides aerobic fitness testing, has a built-in heart-rate monitor, recommends an optimum heartrate, and then times your relaxation session to help you chill post-workout. Oh, and it tells time, too. Polar F55 Heart Rate Monitor Workout Watch $220 from PolarDiscount.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 riveted-clothing.com.
‘Til next week, fellow bargain-hunters!
– Carly J. Cais
(top image via somalifestyle.com)
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May 9, 2008 | Media
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer & ChicSteals blogAs a designer – my line is
RIVETED Clothing & Accessories – I’ve developed an eye for style over the years…and right along with it, a nose for a bargain. Half the fun of fashion is looking fabulous without needing to declare bankruptcy. Each week, I showcase hot designer-style steals (each for $100 or, in most cases, for much, much less)…along with one splurge-worthy item.
This Spring has seen the comeback of the breezy California Hippie chic from the 70’s with flirty, fun frocks that are feminine, relaxed, and comfortable. To take the look from sweltering city streets to the beach, simply switch out the accessories!
Here are some laid-back and lovely bohemian picks guaranteed to bring on the Flower Power:
- ANKLE-LENGTH SUNDRESS In the harsh, sundrenched deserts of the world, those in the know stay protected in long, loose garments; the ankle-length of this sweet cotton maxidress will not only keep you cool, it’s also quite forgiving. The contrast of the earthy brown Indian-inspired pattern along the hem makes this frock pair perfectly with neon bright accessories for days when you’re feeling flamboyant, or with wood or shell jewelry for a more natural look. Ward off an early morning chill with a cotton cardi or denim jacket until it’s high noon…when it’s all about skin and flowing locks. Moorea ankle-length sundress – $50 at Roxy.com.
- STRAPPY SANDALS Inspired by Kate Hudson’s breezy chic style, the strappy flat is a must. These vegan, metallic two-tone braided sandals easily dress up or down, and work with almost any color or print. They’re on sale for $13 at Payless.com (which is cheap in price but surprisingly not so on quality and wearability), so why not buy a backup pair?
- GINORMOUS BAG With all the stuff a gal-on-the-go needs to tote around these days, size matters. This fun turquoise print Mosaic Wood Bead tote from Alloy is roomy enough to accommodate all the additional warm weather acoutrements – oversized aviators, paraben-free sunscreen, flavored water, journal, solid perfume…and the $30 price is also nice.
- CHUNKY BANGLES This season, the larger your accessories, the better, and when it comes to bangles, pile ’em on with abandon (if you’re having trouble raising your arm, you’re in the right ballpark). Mix and match like a pro by pairing metals with naturals, patterns with solids, and thin with thick to create a pleasing group adorning your wrists. An affordable (between $16-$30 each) nature-inspired trio to try: wide wooden Copacabana bangles, thin gold Bamboo bangles; handpainted metallic bangle.
- STYLISH SCARF Lindsay & Jessica are almost never without a lightweight scarf looped around their necks, and with good reason: it’s a chic trend that lends itself perfectly to Cali cool. In juicy orange and priced at $10, this one from Forever 21 will spice up whatever you’ve got on without taking the oomph out of your bank account.
- SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: CHARMING, MULTI-CHAIN NECKLACE Whether the finishing touch to a gauzy v-neck cotton dress…or glimmering at the neck of a tailored white shirt at the office, NYC cult-fave Wendy Mink’s eye-catching array of gold pendants, 22k gold vermeil, and smoky quartz beautifully balances size, silhouette and a mix of materials. On sale at Bluefly for $250 (original price $417), it’s a stylish steal.
If there are any high-priced pieces you’d like me to find similar, less costly versions of, please email me at *carlyjcais AT riveted-clothing.com*. Til next week, fellow bargain-hunters!
– Carly J. Cais, Riveted Clothing & Accessories and the ChicSteals blog
As posted on FashionTribes.com
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Apr 24, 2008 | Media
Glaby Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer
As a designer – my line is RIVETED Clothing & Accessories – I’ve developed an eye for style over the years…and right along with it, a nose for a bargain. Half the fun of fashion is looking fabulous without needing to declare bankruptcy. Each week, I showcase hot designer-style steals (each for $100 or, in most cases, for much, much less)…along with one splurge-worthy item.
Starting with Fall ’07 we saw one of the hottest trends for this year emerge : Grecian Chic, with sparkling jeweled necklines, flashy clutches, flowing fabrics, and strappy shoes. With Spring ’08 comes an update on this trend, making it more effortless, down-to-earth, and ultimately wearable. But savvy fashionistas know that you can still get mileage out of those embellished pieces from Autumn by mixing them with the more bohemian separates we’re seeing lately. Grab these five hot picks (without breaking the bank!) and ramp up your inner Goddess:
WHITE SHORT
We saw them layered over tights for Fall, and now we can finally wear those shorts we’ve been coveting – and show off gorgeously glowing (and bare!) gams at long last. With a paperbag waist and pretty satin ribbon tie, this pair skims over any midsection flaws, and the white color showcases an early Spring tan to perfection. Throw on a pair of glossy patent pumps and a tissue-weight tee for a schoolgirl-meets-callgirl look, or dress them down with a breezy tunic and some flip-flops for warmer days. On sale for $15, they’re a worthwhile investment that will take you all the way through to Fall with ethereal ease.
Lux Sunday in the Park Short, $15, Urbanoutfitters.com.
GOLDEN CLUTCH
Skip the gold clothing and pile on the gold accessories this season – but take care – a little goes a long way when it comes to shine and sparkle. With two chains to choose from and a wealth of stones adorning the top, this little clutch offers versatility and sass in a small package. Marked down to $50 now that the hols are over, now is the time to snap up this pint-sized gem and put some gleam in your handbag rotation. Pair with anything – go for a pair of dark skinny jeans if you’re feeling adventurous – or stick with more sophisticated pieces for a night out – and let your inner Goddess roar.
Virgo Jeweled Clutch, $50 (sale), Rampage.com.
GLADIATOR SANDALS
On all legs in the know this Spring is the gladiator sandal (and you probably spotted Dior’s version on Carrie in the Sex and the City movie promos too!). Love that Old Navy put out their own budget-friendly version at just under $20. With metal rings holding everything in place, and available in bronze or black, they’re sure to add a bit of female glamazon to an otherwise bland ensemble. Pair them with everything from jeans to a tiered bohemian skirt for an effortless warrior vibe that emulates far more pricey versions-for far less of an investment.
Gladiator Sandals, $19.50, Oldnavy.com.
FLOWERED DRESS
If you’ve been watching the latest season of Project Runway (admit it – we’ve all practically been riveted to the latest installment of the season), you’ve probably been drooling over the gorge draped confections that Rami Kashou has masterminded on
the show. Though his Red Carpet designs might not be particularly affordable for the average gal, this drapey top is reminiscent of his amazing ability with fabric (and that fab gown he made back in the first episode!). In grey, purple, or black, and for a mere $33, this piece can be worn as a sweet and sassy mini-dress or as a flowing tunic over a great pair of jeans. Add a strappy gladiator sandal and you’re set for a Spring ensemble that will take you from coffee to a movie to a night on the town in a flowered flash.
Aisling Dress, $32.99, Gojane.com.
BEJEWELED TOP
Sometimes you just don’t need extra jewelry – and this top does double duty as a hot little tunic and a piece of sparkle on its own. With a soft blouson-style waist to keep everything loose and flowy, its glittering neckline brings the attention up to your glowing cheeks and glossy pout. At only $24, this top infuses a shot of glamour that looks oh-so-coquettish peeking out from a structured jacket for day or gracing sparkling shoulders at night.
Jeweled V-Neck Halter Tank Top, $24, Fashionjunkee.com
SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: ROPE RING
Cast from an actual piece of string, this sculptural ring serves as a little golden reminder for all things forgot. Also in silver, this 14K gold version will add a touch of ethereal sparkle to an otherwise unadorned finger – or sit nicely in amongst more showy pieces. At $190 for this hand-crafted accessory, it’s a wise investment that can be both understated (and deliciously sexy!) in its delicate knotting.
Gold Forget-Me-Knot Ring, $190, Momastore.org.
If there are any high-priced pieces you’d like me to find similar, less costly versions of, please email me at carlyjcais AT riveted-clothing.com. ‘Til next week, fellow bargain-hunters!
– Carly J. Cais
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Apr 24, 2008 | Fashion, Media
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer
Instead of my usual
Carly’s Chic Steals & Deals, it’s all about Tokyo trends this week. A recent visit (I lived there for 6 years) served as a reminder of what a fast moving style capitol the city is. Fashion is foremost and girls happily brave the cold to wear the latest fashions straight from the runway, while model scouts camp out in front of department stores hoping to scoop up the next bright young thing. Crazy trends come and go in a heartbeat, but many of the hot global trends take off here first, months in advance of the the West. Keep current by checking out the cool streetstyle photos at
ar-um.jp.
Here are some of the season’s standout trends from the stylish streets of Tokyo to help you jump ahead of the fash pack: 
I WANT CANDY If you’re ever stood outside a restaurant in Japan and admired the glass case brimming with mouthwatering selections from the menu – made completely out of plastic – you’ll definitely agree that one of Japan’s strengths is making fake food look amazingly realistic. Trendy locals are now updating last year’s trend of decorating cellphones, pocket mirror and lipstick cases with crystals and miniature flowers – and replacing them with tiny servings of fake plastic waffles, chocolates, ice creams, parfaits, waffles, sliced strawberries, and dollops of whipped cream. (Which is why you love your friends at Fashiontribes so much for keeping you ahead of the curve – in this case waaaaaaaaayyyyyyyy ahead – when we turned you a while back to these chocolate marshmallow creams, doughnuts with sprinkles, and other tasty jewelry tidbits by Pancake Meow.) Sweet candy lookalike necklaces, rings, earrings, and key rings are all the rage – even the 
new spring tees have prints of cakes and sweets – while plush pouches and bags shaped like hamburgers and hot dogs are flying off the shelves…alongside charmingly wacky English which serves as a reminder that you are in fact still in Japan…and not visiting Hershey headquarters. Check HollyHock Cafe for availability (they ship internationally); Q-Pot if you can ship to a Japanese address, or PancakeMeow.com.
BOOTS MAKE FOR WALKIN’ Even visiting Disney World, many Japanese girls insist on wearing 4-inch high stilettos….and I salute their resolution and determination! But finally, the low-heeled and flat boot have arrived-and in black or brown and they give off a decidedly rugged American-Frontier vibe. Western-style boots have continued as a strong trend since the Fall, but now the streets are also populated with moccasins, motorcycle boots, and strappy gladiator boots. For the season between 
blustery winter and breezy Spring, it’s all about fab, earth-toned boots with a flat heel that can still keep up, even as the trends change. (BETTYCLUB, me, tassetasse – available at Stylife.co.jp; note: they ship to Japan only)
WEIRD ENGLISH Japan being Japan, clothing adorned with nonsensical English is probably never going away, however, this season, the tees and sweaters in the trendiest shops this are particularly wordy. The chic graphics made by hand reach out involuntarily, until I realized it read Cool Pretty Smacky Glam. However, there are plenty of shirts in longer lengths with fun slogans that actually make sense – Addicted to my baby; She’d rather die than have her picture taken (with a graphic of Kate Moss) – that could be worn as a minidress, and paired with neon leggings and flat ankle-boots for a fabulous Tokyo-style take on the trendy 80s. (Sly, Egoist & Maison Gilfy tees available at Vivi)
FROCKS FOR FLOWER CHILDREN Japan Vogue and the rest of the fashion pack trying so hard to bring back Cali hippie chic will be happy to know their efforts are being rewarded in Tokyo. Despite still-frigid temperatures, brave fashionistas can be spotted in breezy frocks with tiny flower prints in yellow, black, green, and orange with lace edging that wouldn’t have been out of place at a 70s vintage 
store. Swingy black under-skirts keep things modest, as do black-mini shorts. Pair with cowboy boots, a slouchy leather belt,and a punchy oversized bag to reawaken that Flower Child slumbering within. (VIVAYOU, XMiss, L’est Rose – available at Stylife.co.jp)
ARMY JACKETS & COATS After numerous seasons of little jackets, Japanese girls are rocking oversized army coats – rumpled, too large…and fetching. The coolest coats have intricate detailing, zippers, pockets galore, buckles, and a comfortable, lived-in look that hasn’t been on the racks in Japan in some time. They are often left open (chilly spring winds be damned) to show off what’s underneath, usually a breezy chiffon mini with low-heeled boots, or downtown-chic dirty denim and pointy neon pumps. (Jackets by Osmosis & PageBoy – available at Stylife.co.jp)
GIRLY HOODIES Girls here wear a long-length hoodie as a dress with bare legs (by the daring only…it’s still chilly!) or with neon tights and knee-length low-heel boots in black or brown. Hoodies in gray, cream, or black with ruching or gathered pockets are all the rage, as is the cropped hoodie – which is probably more appropriate for a pre-teen, thanks to rainbows, unicorns, and stars…but so adorable I had to give in and grab a similarly-printed makeup case so I didn’t feel too over-the-hill. (Cecil McBee, L.D.S., SWORDFISH – available at Vivi)
And, if you’d like to shop some Japanese brands in English, check out As Know As which specializes in super-chic indie brands native to Tokyo – like this silk apron-style dress for just over $100 – and ships them internationally!
– Carly J. Cais (Carly is the fashion designer behind RIVETED Clothing & Accessories; email her at CarlyJCais at riveted-clothing dot com)
(streetfashion photos via ar-um.jp)
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