Just when you think the line between high street and designer couldn't get any more blurred, George at Asda come along and do their own version of Kate Moss's sparkly Balmain dress for just £16. The silver and black space-like dress was worn by the supermodel in April, as she went out for dinner at Nobu, and attended a launch party for her friend Shaun Leane. Many of you loved it for its exaggerated shoulders and super '80s glitz, and therefore will welcome this much cheaper version. Having said that, I'm sure many of you won't. Goddiva also did a high street copy a couple of months ago, but it's now all sold out.
Dorothy Perkins has surprised me this season with some beautiful details and shapes, particularly on tops. There's lots of embellishment, draped silk and asymmetric shapes, with items that owe a lot to designers like Phillip Lim and Alber Elbaz for Lanvin.
I know Isabelle will love the hot coral shade of this top, while I'm glad they've also put it out in a more wearable shade of grey. The shape is great if you've got quite straight up-and-down body or a bit of a belly you'd like to hide, and the tunic length lends itself to trousers / jeans, so it's perfect for women who're not ready to get their legs out just yet!
If you fancy giving it a go, it's yours for £35. Click here for the grey, or here for the coral.
Alison Yau writes...
It's no shocker that florals are always great for spring, and this dress from New Look is a great example of this.
With a bit of a 50's feel, it flatters your figure by nipping you in at the waist and then flaring out a little. And how cute is the collar? I can't resist dresses whatsoever, and with this coming in at £25, I can imagine picnics in the park, feeding the ducks and all that good stuff. Having already sold out in size 6 online, you'd better get your skates on to grab it while you still can. Ultra feminine, it is sure to put a spring in your step!
When talking in detail last week about shopping for the perfect coat, I emphasised the idea that it's worth splashing out on something beautiful if you can. In Winter you'll get more wear out of a good coat than any other item in your wardrobe, so I see it as an investment.
But I'm now going to contradict myself completely. The truth is, especially in the current financial climate, a lot of people just don't have £150+ to spend on a coat, even if they factor in the cost per wear over a period of time. This is why folks like George at Asda are working to bring truly cheap creations to the masses.
George's 'Little Black Coat' is the ultimate in credit crunch fashion - it's 66% wool, it's fully-lined, it's a classic, timeless shape...and it's £15. Obviously, it had to be our Bargain Pick of the Week.
This week's Bargain Pick of the Week is a bit different. Rather than being one item, it's a whole section of a website. Recently, ASOS.com quietly launched Red, which offers big discounts on brand names. Think of it as a sort of online TK Maxx, stocking all kinds of brand names at knock down prices. From Utam and Mina to French Connection and Chilli Pepper, there's all sorts on offer and the prices are really very good. Visit ASOS.com/red to shop.
It's quite possible that it's a bit early to be looking at Winter coats. But it is September now, and we all know how quickly it gets cold. Also, when it comes to coats, you snooze you lose. Wait too long and all the bargains will be gone. I remember chasing a particular coat around all of London's Dorothy Perkins stores two years ago.
Speaking of bargains, this red duffel coat is definitely a good buy. Ok, it has a slight Paddington Bear vibe (though his was blue) but there's nothing better when it's cold than snuggling into a cosy coat, and this one has the bonus of a funnel neck and a hood to keep you warm and dry. The red will brighten a few moods during the dull days to come (*vomit*) and the price will definitely make you smile. It's £28 from Peacocks.
*sigh* I remember when Threadless sales meant $10 tees. Alas, times have changed and now their Back To School sale means the massive range of logo and graphic tees designed by the online community are (a still very reasonable) $12 a pop. Though I'll probably end up ordering half a dozen, right now my heart is set on 'Skip Dessert' (above). Shop now if you don't want to be disappointed, they sell out quick during the sales.
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