Dorothy Perkins Sale Alert!

As you know, the main premise of this blog is to provide you with information to help you stay ‘Chic in Academia’, or in any workplace for that matter (for you non-academics). 😉  So, what kind of blogger friend would I be if I failed to share with you amazing deals for workplace appropriate clothing??

Today, I came across this sale at Dorothy Perkins, with some very affordable dresses!  What’s affordable you say??  Less than $30 for each of my picks below!

Here are a few of my faves:

1.  Dogtooth pencil dress, $29.00

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2.  Camel and ivory sculpted dress, $27.00

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3.  Black neopreen pencil dress, $17.00

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4.  Navy and cobalt pencil dress, $29.00

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I love that all four dresses have sculptured silhouettes, and that the black paneling on the sides adds a very slimming effect.  Options 1 and 4 are great for those of us who are a little more self-conscious about our non-yoga toned arms!  Lastly, I love the length on all four dresses…definitely a very flattering fit for all shapes and sizes.

To add to the good news, Dorothy Perkins is offering free shipping to all orders over $50 with promo code DPSHIP50, AND I found an additional discount online (15%, promo code INTDP15) by just Google searching “Dorothy Perkins Promo Code”!  You’re welcome. 😉

Good luck shopping and definitely keep me posted with whatever exciting purchases you make!

Stay Chic!

Steal vs. Splurge!

Those of us watching Scandal know that Olivia Pope rocks some amazing threads on the show.  Are you all coveting her wardrobe as much as I am??

In searching for an Olivia Pope-esque coat this weekend, I happened to come across this, and knew I HAD to share it with you all!  I first came across the Splurge version, but upon performing an extensive search for similar coats sold on other websites, came across this less expensive version, the Steal:

Steal:  Yellow Bowknot Front H-line Simple Wool Blend Coat, $34.10

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Splurge:  OUTERWEAR BY ME Mustard Yellow Ribbon Longline Coat, $218.00

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Do you feel like you are seeing double??  That’s what I thought!  The description for both coats appears to describe two VERY similar coats (e.g. wool blend, exact same measurements and sizes).  $218 vs $34??  I’d be crazy not to consider the less expensive version!!  Unless…the quality was, of course, atrocious.  However, based on the descriptions, they appear to be similar – if not the same – in quality.

Still have some reservations?  Sure, not everyone is a fan of bright colors. Consider breaking out of your comfort zone with a color like mustard.  It pairs well with black, so it is definitely an easy piece to incorporate into your current wardrobe, color scheme.

Not a fan of the bow?  The placement on the coat makes me suspect that it is easily removable for a more sophisticated look (if indeed you feel the bow is in any way, girlish). Any tailor would be able to make that alteration.  Even more reason to buy the less expensive version of the coat, right?

Fear not, I did purchase the Steal version of the coat, so I will be able to provide an accurate review of the less expensive version soon!  In the meantime, I will keep an eye out for additional steals that may suit your wardrobe needs.

NOTE (November 9, 2013):  I am in the process of writing the review for this coat.  I strongly suggest you do not purchase the STEAL version of this coat until you read my review.  The quality was honestly, incredibly disappointing.

Fall Essentials – The Frugalista Edition

Fall Essentials - Save
No time to peruse the myriad of websites out there for fall essentials?  I’ve gone ahead and selected a few of my faves for you!  All of these items are under $65.  Stay tuned for a ‘Fall Essentials – Splurge’ selection to be posted soon!!
1. House of Harlow 1960 leather pendant – I am coveting this! Get in my closet!
$58 – http://www.nordstrom.com
2. Forever 21 pumps – You need a statement pair of heels in a jewel tone for the fall.

3. Forever 21 taupe knee high boots – I actually own these…super comfy!

4.  Asos Batwing Dress – Love a great graphic print dress!

5. Moroccan oil – An essential for fall weather.  Keep that mane ultra soft!
$17 – http://www.nordstrom.com

6. 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target® Large Carryall T… : Target – Great work tote!

$55 – http://www.target.com

7. H&M plastic earrings – Leopard print is the new neutral.

$13 – hm.com
8. Tights – Opaque tights are a must for the fall.
$8.50 – http://www.factory.jcrew.com
9. Banana republic scarf – Add a pop of color to your fall wardrobe.
$59.50 – http://www.bananarepublic.gap.com