Frugal vs Fabulous: Houndstooth Dress
In my quest to reinvent my sense of personal style to a more demure version of my younger self, I’ve taken a liking to the houndstooth print. I’ve always liked it but never got anything more than a skirt that Ive had for over 6 years. It’s a classic print that Im sure any woman will love. Right?
Well I came across the dress below and it is sold at Nordstrom’s and Barrie Pace. Needless to say Im in love with it but not at that price. $400. Yikes! I won’t lie and say that the thought hasn’t crossed my mind, after all it is a clasic but we are in a recession and I’d feel guitly. So I’ve been looking for alternatives and the only one that comes remotely close is the Banana Republic version for $94.
What do you think?
Nordstrom: This is currently on sale for $400 but with 40%. so Im thinking I can get it and then have my mom take it in? But I’m still on the hunt for something similar but not cheap. Hopefully Fashion Under $100 and Frugal-Fashionista can help me out because I am damn near stalking this dress.
Banana Republic: Love the sheen, the cut is pretty conservative but it’s classy. I don’t want just any ole Houdstooth dress, I want one that will turn heads, not only because it’s a classic, but because of the design, cut and fit.
Talbots: This looks too Corporate America and well, old, I can’t imagine where I’d where this dress. But this is from Talbots and I believe they are made with the older woman in mind. Please don’t flame me for saying that!
Any ideas on where I can find a similar dress at a bargain momma price?
I like the color/sheen on number 2, but I dislike the cut. Probably because I feel that it looks too “I just threw on this old number” and the barely defined waist would make my hips and waist look huge. I like the first and the third equally. Though I am not really an houndstooth fan myself. I like pin stripes and that is about it for patterns for everyday or work.
Love, love, LOVE the banana one! Can you share the link!?
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found this online for under $60:
http://www.chadwicks.com/clothing/Houndstooth-Print-Ponte-Knit-Dress.aspx?PfId=154029&DeptId=15875&producttypeid=1&ViewAll=1&affiliate_id=017&affiliate_location_id=01&WT.mc_id=k1343&mid=j9249594
And this one if they have your size:
http://www.overstock.com/Clothing/Jessica-Howard-Womens-Houndstooth-Check-Dress/3250249/product.html?cid=128292&fp=F&srccode=cii_13736960&cpncode=23-4116483-2
Also be sure to check for any coupon codes at http://www.retailmenot.com. I generally save up to 35/40% on most sites, thru using a combination of various promo codes. Omg, i dont online shop without checking retailmenot first anymore, ever!
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Just a suggestion, but I’m thinking that the 3rd one wouldn’t seem so ‘old’ if it were a little shorter? Maybe you could have it altered?
Have you looked at TJ Maxx or Marshalls? Some of their pieces are very high quality, and they usually seem to have some very on trend items. Good luck!
The Banana Republic one looks like it might sit awkwardly around the waist. The fabric just looks sort of stiff.
I like the $400 one the best…I’d feel bad about paying $400 though! However, I’m not very good at the online shopping thing(I usually shop brick and mortar clearances! lol), so I can’t help you much.
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Thanks for the recmmendations. Ive seen some good ones but they dont grab my attention.
Im leaving it alone for a bit to see if I really really want it. I just need a dang coupon! LOL
The Talbots dress is on sale now. There are some other houndstooth items there too–a great jacket and tote bag.
Talbots seems to be updating its look these days. Also, the company is in financial distress and so markdowns may keep coming.
just came across this one on sale at macy’s and thought of this post!
http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=331691&CategoryID=18545