I inadvertently cover both ends of the fashion value spectrum this week by featuring a cardigan that looks much more expensive than it really is and a scarf that, while super chic, is a super splurge. In the middle, a few fall finds that will add lots of fun, but won’t drain your bank account.
Check out what’s lurking in my online shopping cart this week…
1. Uniqlo Ultra Stretch Ankle Length Jeans, $39.90
I’ve covered my unabashed love for Uniqlo’s bargain-priced Ultra Stretch jeans in detail in this blog. They are one of the best fashion values on the market, and I own them in literally every color. Uniqlo has recently expanded the Ultra Stretch line to include high-waist and ankle-length versions. I’ve been waiting to buy until I could see them in person, which I accomplished this past weekend. The ankle-length fit is available in the same versatile denim shades as the original, with the exact same body-loving stretch fit, just a slightly shorter inseam. They’re perfect for showing off shoes, or just creating a different silhouette. I’ll be wearing them with chunky sweaters and booties this fall.
2. Taiana Scarves Ohara Sun Scarf, $910.00
Let’s be clear up front: I will not pay nearly a thousand dollars for scarf. Period. But, I couldn’t resist sharing this gorgeous shopping find with all of you. If you happen to have the kind of shopping budget that will absorb a splurge-priced scarf, this is the one to get. This stunning handmade felted merino wool scarf has a dreaded wool fringe framing an open-weave with square holes. There’s nothing ordinary about this accessory.
3. Sephora Favorites Superstars Collection, $75.00 ($225.00 value)
While most retailers seem to see multi-brand beauty collections as a chance to rid themselves of slow-selling formulas or out-of-season colors, Sephora clearly takes pride in creating kits that are 100% covetable. True to its name, this collection is made up of some of the biggest beauty superstars Sephora carries. Among the 12 best-selling items you’ll score here: Benefit They’re Real Mascara, Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray, Nars Blush in Orgasm, and Urban Decay Eye Shadow in Sin. Enough said.
4. Zara Knit Cardigan, $99.90
I checked out this chunky cardigan in person over the weekend and I am quite impressed. It stood out in the store as one of the most luxe-looking pieces currently in stock. The acrylic/ wool/ alpaca blend makes for a substantial, plush weave that holds color well. Of course, it’s not as soft as cashmere, but it’s priced about a quarter of what a cashmere version would set you back and looks just as gorgeous. It’s available in mid-grey (shown here) and sand colors. Both are equally fabulous.
5. COS Oversized Wool Cardigan, $99.00
This unassuming oversized lambswool cardigan has a vaguely Acne-esque simplicity to it. I like that in a sub-$100 cardigan. It’s available in black and grey, but I think this dusty mustard shade would make an ideal complement to a neutral fall wardrobe.
