Kooba vs. Steve Madden

If you like the Kooba Penelope, pictured above in black patent, then you might like the Steve Madden Kooky. Both clutches have the same rectangular shape, center quilted band and polished silver turnlock clasp. The Kooky (yes, even the name is “inspired” by the original) is an alternative for those looking for a silver version of the Penelope which only comes in black, caramel or white patent. The Kooky is $88 while the Penelope retails at $295. The quality of the former is a bit spotty though so if you can wait until it goes on sale then it would be a real steal.

Lace Up Snakeskin Pumps

One afternoon of browsing through Sea of Shoes (I love Jane Aldridge’s style - and shoes!) and Topshop (I will be in New York City on April 2nd!) in quick succession generated this splurge vs. steal “aha!” moment.

 

Jane got her first pair of Louboutins (on the left) in python, no less, on sale at Barneys and are a great investment. But let’s face it, the Louboutins even on sale are priced several times more than Topshop’s version (on the right). If you can’t bear to part with $$$ and can live without the saucy red soles, the sky high heels or the extra loop for the shoe laces to go through, Topshop gives a decent look for less.

Side Note: How funny is it that Topshop.com notes “Do not wash” on product info for most of their shoes?

Flower Thong Sandals

We all know that florals are one of spring’s biggest trends. Chanel’s camellia clipped black thong sandals are a subtle way to wear the trend. They’re new for spring, gorgeous and … sold out in most stores. You’ve got to admire (and envy!) the savvy gals who already got theirs. Or you can try your luck on eBay and get it for more than the retail price of $345.

J. Crew’s Posy Capri Sandals look similar and are almost a third less than Chanel’s. The posies are actually white enameled circles sewn together to look a flower. They’re available in select stores now or online for pre-order at jcrew.com for $118.

Colorblock Hobo Bags

Left: Ananas Mari $275………………………Right: Steve Madden Bbunny $59.95

Black Peep Toe Heels

Splurge: These Christian Louboutin Very Prive peep toe stilettos are stunningly gorgeous. The covered platform with deep red toe is unique, not to mention its signature red sole. The 4 4/5″ heel is fierce. No wonder celebs love it especially on the red carpet. At $700+ a pair, the price is also sky high.

 

Steal:The Liatris 2 from Nine West is not quite as fabulous as the Louboutins but at $92.95 at zappos.com, it’s a steal!

Here are two celebs in Louboutin Very Prive:


Nicole Richie is wearing Very Prive in black satin

Sienna Miller is wearing Very Prive in black glitter

Photo Credits: christianlouboutin.fr, zappos.com. gettyimages.com

Platform Wedge Patent Mary Janes

Christian Louboutin Round Toe Platform Wedge $695.00$415.00 SALE

Steve Madden Mytai $89.95

Tiered Ruffle Tank Tops

One would never be mistaken for the other even though both are tank tops and have layers of ruffles covering the bodice. The 3.1 Phillip Lim sheer chiffon top is a luxe, dressier version of the two. It’s € 210.00 at Luisa Via Roma or $275 in yellow at Net-a-Porter. A more practical version made of lightweight cotton is J. Crew’s tissue rolling-ruffles tank. It’s $44 and almost sold out. And to think I balked at paying $44 for a tank top!

Pearl Cluster Necklaces from J.Crew and Target

Last month, several bloggers noted the similarity between pearl cluster necklaces from J. Crew (pictured on the left) and Target (pictured on the right). By the time I found out about it, the necklace from Target was already on clearance in stores (for $2.79!) and sold out online. I had no hope of finding one at all. But today, I went to the Target store in Eagle Rock looking for a pair of McQ cropped pleated trousers in size 3 (to compare with the size 1 that I bought last week) which I didn’t find. My luck was in finding the cluster necklace, still full price at $10.99 but definitely a more wallet friendly price than J.Crew’s $125. Score! Forever 21 has a similar version for $7.80 but I like Target’s version better. all above are collected from shopdiary.com

Forever 21 vs Hermes
Aldo vs Chanel
Forever 21 vs Chanel