Search Results for “steep vs. cheap

Steep vs. Cheap: Studded flat sandals

SUMMER’S HERE! Are we allowed to scream that just yet? OK, so the sun may be playing hide and seek, but that doesn’t stop us from dreaming about showing off that colour pop pedicure we painstakingly sat through. Tempting us to ditch socks and boots in favour of foot-flashing sandals are this week’s Steep vs. Cheap option. A statement sandal is a great way to inject an off-duty look with warm weather vibes; and they’re the perfect companion for any beach look, too. Add a smattering of studs, and you’ve got the perfect summer sandal to take you from now to the next boot-wearing season! Cashing in at the steep end this week is the Balenciaga Arena sandal. At £492 a pop, the price tag may be painful, but these beauties are too easy on the eye to dismiss! The yellow gold-tone metal signature studs and low stacked wooden heel makes this sandal the ideal partner for a day strolling the city. Tempted? Shop the steep option here: Balenciaga Arena stud gladiator sandal, £492, available at Matches Fashion. Can’t quite justify forking out nearly £500 to show-off your tootsies? Don’t sweat it, because we’ve tracked down the perfect, pocket-friendly pair that won’t leave you in the red. The Move sandal  by KG Kurt Geiger, £40, will easily dress up any look, thanks to the impressive spike stud detail. What will you wear them with? We’re diggin’ a billowing maxi and sun hat. Shop this super-cheap option here:  KG Kurt Geiger Move sandal, £40, availbale at Kurt Geiger.

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Steep vs. Cheap: Metallic box clutch

Is your accessory collection in need of an update? Tending to your undercover hoarding needs this week is our Steep vs. Cheap find: the metallic box clutch. Whether you’re looking to dress up an evening look or simply want to invest in a pretty little bag, you can’t go wrong with a neat little clutch. Cashing in at the steep end this week is a pretty little keeper by Kotur. Hand-finished, the embossed, silver-tone Espey clutch (£290) is the perfect cocktail hour companion. Featuring a concealable shoulder strap and the brand’s signature brocade lining, it even comes with a matchbook-sized notebook for making essential (style) notes! Need it in your life? Snap up the Espey clutch here. Can’t quite afford to fork out nearly £300? Fear not, because we’ve found the ideal high street hero in the form of the Beloise clutch (£49). Imprinted with an evening-appropriate snake print; the handy, detachable strap and perfect size make it the ideal clutch for carrying all your essentials – all with a pretty price tag to boot! Shop the Beloise clutch here. You’d be mad not to.

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Steep vs. Cheap: Gingham trousers

From Wizard of Oz-inspired looks at House of Holland, to intricately embellished, cut-out creations at Balmain; gingham rocked the runway this spring, and it’s not about to take a back seat as the pretty, prairie print. Forcing us to part with our hard earned cash this week is the perfectly tailored gingham trouser. From the tapered cut to the formal-yet-fun print, it’s the perfect option for those looking to introduce a little print into their work wardrobes – especially if floral prints aren’t your sartorial cup of tea. Searching for both ends of the budget spectrum, as we do, this week’s steep vs. cheap options are guaranteed to up your smart pant game. Making it in at the steep end this week is the Michael Kors cropped gingham stretch-cotton Samantha trouser. At £405 a pop, you’ve got to be in a spendy frame of mind when contemplating clicking these home; but paired with a crisp white shirt and killer heels for work, you’ll be hard-pressed to refuse their prettifying effect! In the mood to splurge? Shop our steep option now: Michael Kors Samantha cropped gingham stretch-cotton pant, £405, available at Net-a-Porter. Not keen on splashing out half your rent on some trews? Fear not, because high street saviour Topshop has come to the rescue with an equally stylish pair, for a mere £42! The flattering cigarette cut makes this trouser ideal for pairing with a casual tee, blazer and slip-ons for polished off-duty style, or dressed up for work with a block colour blouse, statement necklace and heels. Feeling frugal? Cheap option this way: Petite gingham cigarette trouser, £42, available at Topshop.

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Steep vs. Cheap: The ultimate work dress

There’s nothing more mundane than boring office wear. Agreed? But thanks to certain designers taking it upon themselves to make our work wardrobes a more stylish affair, the days of formal greys and boring cuts are fading fast. This week’s steep vs. cheap option is a winner, even if we do say so ourselves! Not much beats the promotion-bagging qualities of a form-fitting, brightly hued dress; and when it also fits in day-to-night appeal, resistance (to purchase) is futile. First in at the steep end this week is the mesh-trimmed silk and wool-blend dress from the very woman who balances style with a fiercely entrepreneurial spirit to perfection: Victoria Beckham. Spliced with sheer mesh, the kingfisher blue, silhouette-skimming dress plays into the sports luxe trend with ease, yet still boasts slick boardroom appeal. Looking to splash out? Shop the steep option right here: Victoria Beckham mesh-trimmed silk and wool-blend dress, £1,550, available at Net-a-Porter. However, if your bank balance refuses to stretch to VB’s price tag, fear not! Allowing you to step into work in style is the equally flattering, contrast panel bodycon dress. Nipped at the waist for a cinched effect, the contrast panels and back-zip detail give it high end allure with a very satisfying price tag. Want to go from work to sipping waboritas in less than 30 seconds flat? Just add a simple clutch, and you’re good to go. Feeling the pinch, and want to curb the spending? Thrifty option this way:  Contrast panel bodycon dress, £45, available at Closet.

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Steep vs. Cheap: High Street heel wars

Sandals are a case for the best pedicures, and just a damn good excuse to ban all socks-and-boots pairings from our wardrobes. You can’t fool us, sky! This week, tempting us to twinkle-toe our way into a culotte and cropped top ensemble are these pretty heeled sandals. And guess what? Both the steep and cheap versions are high street finds! If you’re guilty (well, actually, let’s call it ahead of time) of fast forwarding your wardrobe, already pinching summer staples and mixing them in with your Blighty-proof style; we don’t blame you. And, when you land your peepers on these white-washed sandals, with just the right amount of polished detailed to take them from under a smart office look to a summer cocktail soirée, it’ll be tough to resist whipping the plastic out. Making us dream up minimal, summery outfits is the Kiss sandal from high street favourite, Kurt Geiger. The two-strap sandal features a sturdy block heel and turn lock ankle fastening, and screams out to be paired with an A-line midi skirt in the softest of pastel lilacs. Tempted? Shop the steep option right here (we promise it won’t really break the bank): Carvela Kurt Geiger Kiss sandals, £85. But, if forking out £15 short of your fortnightly travel allowance on hardly weatherproof shoes leaves you feeling a little nervous, we’ve tracked down a much more cost effective option. Take your boot-clad self to Topshop, and pick up an equally fashion status-boosting style for a fraction of the price. Sorted. Go on, you know they’re meant for your shoe collection: Topshop Heartbreaker heeled sandals, £28.

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Steep vs. Cheap: Houndstooth-print coat

Spy the snowstorm this morning? Rather, did you survive it? Well, given spring hasn’t fully sprung, yet, we’re still hanging onto our toasty, winter-warmer essentials. Yes, that involves a rather trusty and chill-proof coat – but one that doesn’t compromise on style in the slightest. If you’ve been searching for that winning combination, then look no further than our outerwear finds for this week’s Steep vs. Cheap. Coming in at the pricey end is the Mosley coat by alice + olivia (£250). We’re totally digging the houndstooth print (very Sixties), and can’t quite get over the snug factor! The cocoon cut feels perfect for now, while the look-at-me print is strong yet classic. Not got the extra cash to burn? Why worry, when high street saviour, Mango, is at the rescue? We’ve tracked down an equally modish version of the houndstooth-print coat in a delish wool-blend, for a rather modest price tag. Cashing in at £59.99, you’ll have enough left over for a second splurge. Just don’t blame us. So, which one will it be? Shop both coats below. Steep: alice + olivia Mosley long oversize cocoon coat, £250, available at Oxygen Boutique. Cheap: Houndstooth wool-blend oversize coat, £59.99, available at Mango.

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Steep vs. Cheap: Printed Trousers

Hey spring, we see you! Well, sort of. Save for the recent blustery climes, we’ve long been dreaming up our new season wardrobes and, nothing quite says “See ya, winter” like a pair of print-splashed trousers. Teasing us with easy-on-the-eye prints this week are the Steep vs. Cheap floral-print bottoms. Whether you’re looking to go all-out, or to curb your spending habit, this week’s options are guaranteed to make you part with that hard-earned cash. Did someone say investment? Yep. If investment is your done thing, then look no further than Diane von Furstenberg’s luxe Benet Two silk trousers (£268). Splashed in a nautical floral print, they’ll elevate off-duty style to spring-appropriate levels; and the flattering hues make them a dream to pair with your wider wardrobe. We’re wearing ours with a louche white tank and spring-perfect flats. Seeing red (literally) when spying the Steep version? Worry over, because we’ve tracked down an equally cool pair of printed trews for a fraction of the price. Get your power flower fix at Asos, where you can pick the Just Female floral-printed trousers for a not-so-princely £24. Now that’s a fashionably frugal result! Will you save or splurge? Steep: Diane von Furstenberg Benett Two silk trousers, £268, available at Matches Fashion. Cheap: Just Female flower printed trousers, £24, available at Asos.

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Steep vs. Cheap: Block heel sandals

Fashion Month is nearly here, and the hunt for show-stopping heels resumes. And, what better way to kick-start your search than with a pair of sleek, block sandal heels in everyone’s favourite colour, and to suit all budgets. Making it into our steep category this week are the gorgeous Morgan saffiano block heel sandals (£175) from our favourite high-end high street brand, L.K.Bennett. Crafted in glossy patent leather and embellished with a gold stripe, the sturdy block heel of these sixties-inspired sandals will keep you on the dance floor all night. Winning! But, if you’re looking to curb the spending slightly, then head to Topshop and pick up a similar style for just £55! The rhodium metal trim heel sandals boast a higher heel, and feature striking gold metal ankle straps. Perfect worn with tailored trousers and a blouse for work, or a mini skirt and casual tee for off-duty glam; these beauties are a no-brainer for the shoe lover on a budget. Will you splurge or save? Steep: Morgan saffiano patent leather block heel sandals, £175, available at L.K.Bennett. Cheap: Rhodium metal-trim heels, £55, available at Topshop.

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Steep vs. Cheap: Baby blue tote

If you’re tired of sporting a boring black bag to match the glum weather, how about prepping for spring with this week’s Steep vs. Cheap find? We’re introducing the spring-soft colour of pale blue into our January wardrobes, and there’s no better way to do it than with a practical (and gorgeous) tote! Welcome the bag-of-dreams, the Balenciaga Giant 12 City leather tote (£1,175), at the steep end. Splashed in a new season hue of pale blue, the iconic tote is crafted from goat leather and comes with all the trimmings, including a detachable shoulder strap and gold-plated stud detail. But, if your bag budget isn’t so generous, then our Topshop find will work wonders! A steal at only £36, the Suede Backed Tote comes in the softest duck egg shade, and guarantees to fit your life (and more) in it. Also with a detachable shoulder strap, we won’t blame you for using this roomy beauty to within an inch of its life. So, will you save or splash out? Shop both options below. Steep: Balenciaga Giant 12 City leather tote, £1,175, available at My Theresa. Cheap: Suede backed tote, £36, available at Topshop.

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Steep vs. Cheap: Red Sweater

Nothing beats the toasty promise of a new, super-soft knit, and one that delivers a dash of much needed colour is even better. Enter this week’s Steep vs. Cheap pick: the bright, slouchy jumper which we cannot wait to add to our repertoire of winter-warmer essentials! In at the steep end, we’ve tracked down the v-neck wool sweater by Maison Martin Margiela (£523). Bringing a mood-transforming jolt of rich scarlet colour, the oversize jumper is the perfect off-duty staple. Pair with skinny jeans, trusty boots and a chill-blocking coat, and you’ve got yourself the ideal winter outfit in one, colour-saturated swipe. But, if £523 is a bit too deep for the ole’ pockets, then head over to go-to e-store, Hush, and pick up a relaxed fit jumper for just £45 – a snip of the price! Delivering an equally eye-opening dose of shocking red, wear this knit with your favourite winter pieces for a look that’s anything but boring. Will you splurge or save? Steep: Maison Martin Margiela v-neck sweater, £523, available at Matches Fashion. Cheap: Sloppy jumper, £45, available at Hush.

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Steep vs. Cheap: Leopard-print flats

Gone are the days when heels were an absolute must, and sporting flats confined you to the naughty corner. Now, it seems comfort and style can sit side-by-side, and our heel-ravaged feet couldn’t be happier! But, like most ‘sensible’ things, flats don’t have to spell B-O-R-I-N-G. No. Splashed in leopard-print, we can’t get enough of this week’s Steep.vs.Cheap loafers, and we’ve even done the leg work to track down the best buys to suit all budgets. In at the steep end; the Michael Kors Jesyln slip-ons (£275) are a winner if you’re looking to spend the pennies. Crafted in luxurious calf hair and leather, these classic beauties will work wonders to amp up an off-duty look. But, if you’re perspiring at the thought of parting with so many pounds, then fear not! We’ve hunted down the perfect high street alternative at Oasis (£28) that’ll have you looking equally as stylish – even when it’s a jeans-and-tee kinda day – for a fraction of the price! Will you save or splurge? Steep: Michael Kors Jeslyn slip-ons, £275, available at Zalando. Cheap: Leopard-print loafers, £28, available at Oasis.

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Steep vs. Cheap: Pink mini skirt

If you failed to get your hands on this season’s must-have pink coat, then surely a pink skirt should do the trick, right? Let your love affair with Barbie’s favourite shade of ice-cream take on a new guise with this week’s Steep vs. Cheap picks. A mini, in any colour or cut, is an absolute wardrobe essential. And, when paired with the right accessories, can make for very worthy, all-season investment. Helping you to amp up the colour credentials of your winter wardrobe with a pop of bubblegum pink, we’ve trawled the interwebs to bring you the cutest skirts at either end of the budget spectrum. Coming in at the steep end this week is the Valentino A-line wool and silk-blend mini skirt (£430). Perfect paired with an evening top, heels and a small cross-body for post-work cocktails; or with chunky tights, Chelsea boots and the cosiest knit for day, you’re guaranteed to get your wear out of this little power-packer. If you’ve the cash to spare, don’t delay slipping into this pretty pink number! But, if the prospect of forking out £430 is a little frightening (of course it is!), then why not do it on the cheap? Head to ASOS, and pick up the A-line ponte mini skirt (£18) for a fraction of the price! Teamed with a graphic knit and flats, we’re digging this pocket-friendly mini for a casual Friday work look that says calorie-free sugar rush. Will you splurge or save? Steep: Valentino wool and silk-blend mini skirt, £430, available My Theresa. Cheap: A-line ponte mini skirt, £18, available at ASOS.

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Steep vs. Cheap: Heeled boots

Trusty boots are the cornerstone of an accomplished winter wardrobe, and when they look as good as this week’s Steep vs. Cheap finds, they become even more irresistible! Black boots are easy to style with the majority of your wardrobe, and look even better with added quirks and details, so we’ve tracked down the hottest buys to suit all budgets. In at the steep end this week is the Wiltshire calf boot  (£895) by Belstaff. Crafted from sumptuous, super-glossy calf leather, we love the polished brass hardware buckle detail running down the side of the leg, and the slither of brass toe-cap ups the lust-worthy factor. Channel this season’s hottest trend and wear these boots with a knee-grazing A-line skirt in the softest wool. But, if you’re sweating at the price tag of these Belstaff beauties, fret not, because we’ve tracked down an equally enticing, wear-me-now pair with a pretty price tag to match! Welcome the Saphire boot (£165) from Dune. Naturally, the high street is where we head for a fashion fix when we’re limited to a not-so-endless budget, and these boots promise envious stares galore without a huge dent in your pocket! Affordable and amazing, all rolled into one? Yes, please! Will you splurge or save? Steep: Wiltshire calf boots, £895, available at Belstaff. Cheap: Saphire boots, £169, available at Dune.

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Steep vs. Cheap: The perfect evening cover up

OK, so the chill has well and truly set in, and we’re dreading the consequences of dropped temperatures on our evening wardrobe. The last thing you want to do is sport an unsightly coat over your evening look, so we’ve taken to scouring the web to bring you stylish cover ups for a night out- and, to suit all budgets! Got spare cash to burn? Snap up the Alice + Olivia Kayden cropped faux fur coat (£234.98) from The Outnet, in all its sumptuously soft glory! The cropped style means it won’t swamp your entire outfit, whilst the boxy fit is on point for autumn/winter 2013. Splashed with evening jewels, heels, and a lasting spritz of your favourite scent, and it’s off to the party you go. But, if you’re on a limited budget when it comes to compiling cover up options for going out, then your best bet is sticking to the interwebs’ high street, aka ASOS! Ideal for chilly nights out, we’re totally digging the loop stitch bomber cardigan (£55). In an evening-perfect shade of silver, this bomber incorporates some of the season’s biggest trends – the sporty silhouette, and textured exterior – and would look perfect perched on the shoulders, atop your go-to LBD. So, will you splurge or save? Steep: Alice + Olivia Kayden cropped faux fur coat, £234.98, available at The Outnet. Cheap: ASOS bomber cardigan, £55, available at ASOS.

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Steep vs. Cheap: Chunky knit scarf

Looking at the frost-coated rooftops and grey clouds, it seems high time to invest in the chunkiest winter accessories possible! And given our affinity for all things knitted and super-cosy, a chunky, chill-blocking scarf is high on the agenda. Much like a pair of gloves or trusty boots, a scarf is a long-term investment for when the cooler climes hit, so its best to go for a flattering colour that’ll work with you winter wardrobe. Need a scarf stat, but can’t seem to find the one that promises all the warmth, without cramping your style? We’ve found the perfect, stylish steep and cheap options to suit all pockets! Sitting pretty snug at the steep end is the Stella McCartney carpet patch chunky-knit scarf (£370). Apart for it being near impossible to not want everything by this designer, we’re digging the softest wool and angora blend, and the easy-to-wear monochromatic colour of this scarf. Winter chills, what winter chills? But, if your winter-proofing budget can’t stretch so far – especially now that the big Christmas shop-athon is looming – how about an equally toasty high street hit? Head to Dorothy Perkins, and pick up the black and white stitch scarf (£16) for a fraction of the price. Yes, you can thank us later. Will you splash out or save? Steep: Stella McCartney carpet patch chunky-knit scarf, £370, available at Matches Cheap: Black and white stitch scarf, £16, available at Dorothy Perkins

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Steep vs. Cheap: Cut out sneakers

With the holiday season set to be a party-led heel marathon, sneaking in as much ‘comfy time’ as possible is called for. And, we can’t think of a more fashionably acceptable way of doing ‘comfortable’ than in a pair of too-cool-for-sports sneakers. Rihanna’s a fan, so is Miley Cyrus. Heck, even the God of leather pants, Kanye West, isn’t seen without his beloved sneakers, convincing even the missus to slip into a matching pair! And thanks to these taste makers, the humble sneaker’s sporty vibe has been elevated to a whole new level of wearable cool. Unsure how to channel the luxe sneaker trend without being mistaken for a gym bunny? Why, with our Steep vs. Cheap sneaker picks, of course! In at the steep end this week, Maison Martin Margiela’s cut out sneakers in black suede are making us want to ditch heels for good. Featuring a soft suede hi-top outer, contrasting white laces and all the padded comfort of a cotton cloud, are you sold on the £441.72 price tag? We are. (Sorry, landlord) But, hold fire if you fear your fashion fund depleting, because we’ve tracked down an equally wardrobe (and pocket) friendly version of the mighty Margiela sneaker. Head to Topshop, and snap up the Ashton cut out sneakers for a very reasonable £52. Win win! Will you splash the cash or curb the urge? Steep: Maison Martin Margiela suede cut out sneakers, £441.72, available at Shopbop Cheap: Ashton cut out trainers, £52, available at Topshop

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Steep vs. Cheap: Perfect winter coat

If you haven’t yet invested in a snug winter cover up (if not, why not?), then we guess the recent chilly spell would’ve pushed you to do so. After all, a chunky knit pretending to be your coat just won’t cut it anymore, not on those crisp, wintry mornings! So, to make the task of choosing a suitable (read: stylish) coat a lot less mundane, we’ve picked out two options to suit all pockets, not to mention up your fash cred a few notches. A mannish coat with throw on appeal is the way to start your love affair with chill-blocking this season, and this week’s Steep vs. Cheap picks are guaranteed to please your inner tomboy. If you’re looking to splash some serious cash, then turn to online shopping haven Zalando, where you can snap up this fuzzy short coat from René Lezard for a meaty £400! Boasting a cosy alpaca, mohair and wool mix exterior, you’ll stylishly sail through the winter months in this coat. But, if your coat fund doesn’t stretch so far, then head to every fashion girl’s ultimate destination for a quick fashion fix: Topshop. Here, you’ll find the equally boyish notch neck coat for £85 – a snip of the price! That’s a happy wardrobe and smiley pocket, then. Steep: René Lezard Short coat, £420, available at Zalando Cheap: Notch neck throw on coat, £85, available at Topshop

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Steep vs. Cheap: Shearling tote

You probably own a pair of snug, snow-proof shearling boots. Even a trusty shearling jacket that you dust off once the annual chill sets in is a wardrobe staple. But have you ever owned a shearling tote? Probably not, which is why we’ve tracked down the hottest styles you’ll want to add to your bag collection right away. Stretching from high-end to high street, we’ve picked out two totes to suit both a generous and limited budget, and we’re pretty sure you’ll fall for their hold-me-now appeal! Coming in at the steep end this week; the Fendi 2Jours shearling tote is preying on our bank balances. Sitting pretty at an eye-popping £2,478, you can expect all the usual luxe trimmings. Enveloped in lamb shearling, this classic arm candy from Fendi comes with a detachable leather shoulder strap, and makes for a perfect everyday bag with a season-appropriate slant. If you’ve got the cash, we’d recommend splashing it on this keeper – you won’t regret it. But, if you’re budget doesn’t stretch to such extremes (unsurprisingly), fear not – we’ve tracked down an equally desirable shearling tote, minus the fashion fun depleting price tag! Look to Kate Middleton’s go-to brand, L.K.Bennett, to snap up the Vanessa shearling tote for a not-so-dangerous £495. All the fashion cred, without the financial drought; perfect. Will you splurge or save? Steep: Fendi 2Jours shearling tote, £2,478, available at My Theresa Cheap: Vanessa shearling zipped side tote bag, £495, availane at L.K.Bennett

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Steep vs. Cheap: Lace cami top

Thanks to the sexily sleepy Louis Vuitton  AW ’13 collection, the style set were all over the idea of sleepwear as outerwear. Lace-trimmed camisole tops and dresses, worn beneath oversized coats and completed with a dark stain on the lips is the look du jour for the new season, and we’re in. Not content with just being a day-to-night option, the lace camisole is enjoying its newly acquired wardrobe staple status; worn with wide-leg trousers and a tuxedo jacket for a refreshing slant on Le Smoking, or paired with skinny jeans, a cashmere knit and boots for an easy day look. Had trouble tracking down the perfect camisole to suit you budget or style? Don’t fret, because we’ve done the legwork and picked out two gorgeous styles that sit either end of the spectrum. Up first at the steep end, the lace-trimmed silk camisole from Antonio Berardi (£600) is a winner for those looking to make a luxe investment. Delicately crafted from pure silk, we love the skinny shoulder straps and sheer black and beige lace detail. The perfect high-end option if you’re after a fail-safe evening look; you’ll be wearing this camisole for years to come. But if your purse strings won’t stretch that far, then fear not! Luxe lingerie brand, Myla London, has the perfect mid-range offering. Coming in at £135, the Isabella camisole is an equally stylish (and cheaper) alternative to its high-end sibling, and features similarly delicate lace detail and adjustable straps. Sleepwear as outerwear doesn’t come better than this! Will you splash the cash, or will you play frugal fashion body? Steep: Antonio Berardi lace-trimmed silk camisole, £635, available at Matches Fashion Cheap: Isabella camisole, £135, available at Myla London

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Steep vs. Cheap: Diamond Stud Earrings

Blingin’ earlobes are every girl’s dream, and when you’re dealing in diamond danglers, such dreams have to be realised. With the festive season a-knockin’, you’re probably struggling for present ideas, or maybe you just want to treat yourself to something special? And, well, they do say diamonds are a girl’s best friend… But don’t let the heaviness of the word ‘diamond’ deafen you with its pocket emptying definition. Instead, we’ve managed to track down the perfect pair of show-stepping diamond stud earrings that are set to suit those with a never-ending supply of cash, and for those firmly pulling on their purse strings. First up, you notes-spillin-outta-pocket types: we’ve tracked down an extremely indulgent addition to your fine jewellery collection, and we’re hardly apologetic about the monumental price tag it attracts. Allow us to introduce the Mireille diamond studs by Astley Clarke. The 18 carat white gold and diamond dazzlers feature a round cut solitaire diamond, surrounded by pave diamonds, and will set you back a whopping £4,250! Many of us couldn’t possibly recover from such a financial blow, so we’ve tracked down a much more affordable version of earrings, offering to satiate your diamond-induced desires! Welcome the silver and diamond stud earrings from high street jeweller, H.Samuel. Cashing in at a reasonable £89.99, we get the feeling you’re set to become besties with these sparklers. So, will you splurge or save? Steep: Mireille diamond studs, £4,250, available at Astley Clarke Cheap: Silver and diamond stud earrings, £89.99, available at H.Samuel

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Steep vs. Cheap: Embellished mini skirt

Afraid of an unflattering midi skirt? Worried your derrière won’t be up to scratch, squeezed into a leather pencil skirt? Let us introduce you this week’s Steep vs. Cheap option, and your go-between sartorial saviour, the mini skirt. Upping the glam ante, this updated autumn staple (who said minis were the reserve of hot summer days?) comes decorated with beautiful embellishment, and we can’t wait to pair it with our cosiest knit and an on-trend pair of ankle boots. Coming in at the pricey end this week is the Loop Studded Twill mini skirt by Isabel Marant (£630). Low-slung on the hips, this mini promises a healthy dose of Parisian cool with a rock ‘n’ roll edge – the flattering wrap front detail is a total winner! But parting with a hefty sum of £630 may leave your bank balance feeling as ‘mini’ as this pretty skirt! But if you want in on the thigh-grazing skirt trend and can’t justify forking out your rainy day savings, just turn to high street haunt Zara for your fix. Cashing in at a pocket pleasing £39.99, the Jacquard Beaded Waist mini skirt also features a wrap front, whilst the bead detailing gives the illusion of an embellished belt – the perfect piece to take you into autumn. Will you splurge or save?

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Steep vs. Cheap: Chain detail shoulder bag

Much like the LBD, a LBB (Little Black Bag, if you’re guessin’) is a crucial element for perfecting that Friday night look. After all, carrying your essentials in a painfully stylish bag is as important as slipping into the most perfectly crafted heels, non? But which one to pick from a sea of noir, buttery soft, suitably embellished bags? Well, read on to find out (and devour the handbag goodness!) Long having acquired cult status, much like THE Balenciaga boot, and, more recently, Stella McCartney’s boxy tartan intarsia knit; the Falabella bag, also by the latter designer, has long been (and remained, unfortunately) on our wish list of want-now bags. Ringing in as this week’s steep option, the Falabella shoulder bag is a compact, chain-trimmed option, perfect for popping over your shoulder and hitting the town. How to make it yours?  Well, it involves parting with a wholesome £510! (Ouch!) Still need it in your life? Forget moping over Stella’s stratospheric price tag, and head straight to Marisota, where you can pick up a similar style for a fraction of the price. At £35, the chain detail bag is a pocket-friendly option to consider, and one that won’t affect your style cred, one bit! What’s not to love? Will you save or splurge?

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Steep vs. Cheap: Pink coat

Not for the faint-hearted or stylistically shy, this season’s dizzying affinity with a certain shade of Powerpuff Girls was all over the street style scene during London Fashion Week. From sell-out high street versions to high-end game changers; the pink coat has industry power players stepping out looking like ultra-chic human candy flosses in oversized pink coats, giving a whole new meaning to the term ‘sugar coated’. (Geddit?) But sweet and sugary it is not, as this season’s take on the girly hue is a sharp, statement-making affair, crafted in a bold style that shouts “I mean real serious business”. So, allow us to introduce this week’s (brave) buys at both ends of the price spectrum; a high-end nod to the ever present androgynous trend by Joseph, and a high street snip in sumptuous mohair from e-tail fave, Asos. Cashing in at the steep end, the Joseph Man wool and cashmere-blend coat (£550) is an investment worth making if coats are your thing. Guaranteed to set you apart from the predictable amongst the style set; keep the rest of your outfit black for a strong look, or clash with a red bag and give sleepy commuters a real wake up call on your way to work! But if you’re tightening the belt when it comes to the all important fashion fund, stick to your high street guns and head over to clickety-click heaven for online hoarders, Asos. Grab the bargain-tastic limited edition mohair alternative to the pricier Joseph coat for a mere £120, and we promise your overdraft will thank you. Will you splurge or slash-yer-fashion-fund?

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Steep vs. Cheap: Parka coat

It pains us to already start thinking about snug winter cover-ups, but, inevitably, the season of slipping into chunky gear is nearly upon us. With temperatures dipping, a trusty coat is a must-have, and a classic style is even better. From the massive collective of coats to reign over the autumn/winter 2013 runways, the resurgence of the parka excited us no end. Its padded exterior, snugly sheepskin inside and fur trim are certified chill blockers, and the styling possibilities, endless. For those of you looking to invest in a parka, we’ve done the legwork and tracked down two options to suit both ends of the spending scale. From high-end to high street, you’re bound to find your fix with this week’s picks! For those on a generous budget, the Yves Salomon fur lined parka (£1,990) is a must-buy piece. In classic grey, it’s luxuriously lined through with camo-print fox fur, and finished off with a cosy racoon fur trim. Easily worn with a simple denim look, or styled with a dress, tights and ankle boots, you’ll be wearing this parka for many years to come. But if your bank balance refuses to stretch to such splurge-worthy limits, fear not, because we’ve hunted down an equally stylish and pocket-friendly option. The Ellie faux fur lined parka from Oasis (£88), with its equally snug credentials and on point khaki-green colour, will offer respite from the cold without draining your fashion fund. Will you splurge or save? Steep: Yves Salomon fur lined cotton parka, £1,990, available at Matches. Cheap:  Ellie faux fur line parka, £88, available at Oasis.

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Steep vs. Cheap: Leather Chelsea Boots

The inevitable dip in temperature has finally arrived, and we’re looking to put away our perfectly pedicured toes for another round of winter-induced hibernation. Bring on the boots! And when it comes to slipping into a pair so trusty, you could practically wear them to bed (OK, maybe not), we wouldn’t consider any style other than the classic Chelsea boot. With its easy to slip on elasticated panel, sturdy heel and buttery soft leather exterior; a black Chelsea boot is the epitome of dressing down with a refined, almost innately British edge. Worn with a dress; models’ uniform of skinny jeans and a slouchy tee, or used to add an informal edge to a crisp white shirt and tailored pants, we love the versatility and comfort the humble Chelsea boot offers. And with so many options available in stores right now, we don’t blame you for being stuck on which pair to buy. So, to make it a little easier, we’ve picked out two options to suit both ends of the budget – whether you’re a high street hoarder, or a stickler for high-end splurges! Displaying the beauty of the Chelsea boot to the fullest, we’re digging this beautifully crafted pair by Saint Laurent. Glossy black leather is paired with an ultra-comfortable three inch heel, making these boots the perfect everyday option. But cashing in at £720, you’ll be left with great looking feet, but not such a healthy looking bank balance! You choose. Still need a boot fix, but on a sensible budget? Look to the holy grail of high street shopping, Zara, where you can pick up an equally hard-working pair for a snippet of Saint Laurent’s sky high price tag – a mere £79.99! Offering a similar style, but with a two inch heel, clad your feet […]

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Steep vs. Cheap: Jacquard trousers

Thinking of ditching the done-too-many-times before dress for a night out, and slipping into something a little different? Let this week’s steep vs. cheap guide tempt you into doing just that. A tailored trouser is the ideal investment for office or play, and, depending on the style and fabric, its styling potential is big. This week, we’ve fallen just a little bit in love with the new season’s most in demand colour: ice cream pink. And worked over with a lustrous jacquard finish – we’re sold! Coming in at the slightly pricey end this week is J.Crew’s Collection capri trouser in gilded jacquard, at £211. Already suckers for Jenna Lyons’ boy-meets-polished-girl style, this primly cut trouser has strengthened our obsession with the brand! Worn with a denim shirt and flats for downtime cool, or dressed up with a slinky black cami and heels, this trouser is guaranteed to become your most prized purchase of the year. But if you’re craving all that shimmery goodness and don’t want to take out a loan with the ‘rents, then look to Glamourous.com, where you can pick up an equally gorgeous pair of similar trews for a fraction of the price. Parting with £39 sounds a lot sweeter than £211, right? So which one will it be? The pocket-breaking or penny-saving pant?

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Steep vs. Cheap: Leather sleeve bomber jacket

Taking outerwear to a whole other level, the revival of the bomber jacket has been a godsend of sort. Especially for the style pack – many of whom prefer the ease of a carrying a stuff-in-bag jacket, as opposed to a coat of Margiela proportions! Thanks to the prominence of the sports-luxe trend, the humble bomber jacket – from its early days on the back of the original Rebel Without A Cause to becoming a certified part of Rihanna’s street uniform– has under gone a ‘lux up’, as we like to call it Elevating its athletic status to so-now, the go-with-everything jacket has serious style grit. Paired with a dress, over a simple tee and jeans or, daringly worn with a party dress for flair that screams I DON’T CARE, we can’t stop waxing lyrical about the bomber jacket’s versatility. Checking in at the high end this week is a buttery soft beauty from A.P.C Atelier de Production et de Création (£455). Perfect for complementing an off-duty look, we love the contrast leather sleeves and trim. The wool-blend body promises a snugly, anti-winter chill insurance of sorts, and the slightly looser fit goes perfectly with the jacket’s relaxed vibe. But if you’re not made of money (erm, like the majority of us), then turn to the high street, because you know it always saves you from landing in a sticky financial situation! Not scrimping on the luxury of real leather, Mango offers the perfect alternative that’s a little easier on the pocket. For £119.99, pick up this gorgeous suede jacket with leather sleeves and sporty snap button fastenings – we promise you’ll wear it forever. So what’s on the cards? A splurge or save-athon? Steep: A.P.C. Atelier de Production et de Création leather and wool-blend bomber jacket, £455, available at […]

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Steep vs. Cheap: The black backpack

Officially too cool for school, the backpack is back with a vengeance. Sans heavy biology and French textbooks, the style set have taken to rocking the backpack in the fashion playground, even making it their best carry-all buddy during a demanding fashion month schedule. Thanks to easy-on-the-eye formations, ranging from leather to print and luxe hides; forget grey uniforms and pigtails, and stick to sporting the backpack with the coolest, sleekest of ensembles: pair with a mesh vest, light knit, skinny jeans and wedge sneakers for the gym-girl-gone-haute look, or add a tougher edge to a feminine dress, by mixing a leather backpack with a chunky boot. However you choose to carry the backpack let this week’s crave-worthy steep and cheap options inspire you. Cashing in at a wholesome £748, the Alexander Wang Marti leather backpack is set to be a certified sell-out piece! An easy option to incorporate in to your wardrobe, thanks to a go-with-everything colour; we love the street vibe, buttersoft leather and plenty of storage space to carry all your essentials – zips galore! On an equally stylish footing (although with a far more sensible price tag) is the Snake zippy backpack from trusty high street haunt, Topshop. The faux snake textured upper, equally practical roomy insides and wear-with-everything appeal makes this backpack a sure-fire addition to our (ever increasing) bag collection! So what will it be? A designer crush, or will you go for the equally stylish yet pocket-friendly option? Steep: Alexander Wang Marti leather backpack, £748, available at My Theresa Cheap: Snake zippy backpack, £36, available at Topshop

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Steep vs. Cheap: Leopard-print ankle boots

You guessed it. Our quest for bagging the perfect pair of boots is still going strong, and it seems our new season wardrobe will contain one too many pairs! Stepping onto our Steep vs. Cheap radar this week are head turning leopard-print ankle boots that are, well, purr-fect (sorry!). Whoever said leopard-print was the reserve of party nights or only to be seen on clothes, look away now, because your shoedrobe is about to receive a serious injection of statement animal print. Coming in at the steep end this week; the Puss in Boots ankle boots from the queen of adorably quirky shoes, Charlotte Olympia. A sure-fire winner when it comes to turning heads with the power of the humble boot, we love the slight heel, luxe calf hair upper and the just visible, iconic embroidered cat face. But, to slip into these beauties means parting with the hefty sym of £795! However, as always, the high street has come to the rescue. Ensuring you can still get your animal print ankle boot fix without breaking the bank is Rihanna’s preferred high street haunt, River Island, where you can snap up a similar style for a fraction of the price. With a pocket-friendly price tag of £50, your feet are guaranteed to look fierce without turning you bankrupt. In these budget friendly beauties, you’ll definitely be the cat that got the cream! So which side will you let loose on these boots: the spendthrift, or the serial cash splasher? Steep: Charlotte Olympia Puss in Boots embroidered calf hair ankle boots, £795, available at Net-a-Porter Cheap: Pony hair leopard-print chelsea boots, £50, available at River Island

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Steep vs. Cheap: Zebra-print dress

If you’re looking for a printed pick-me-up, we’ve tracked down the perfect high-end and high street options to slip into right now! Animal prints are a long-standing love story in the fashion world, and one we’re not going to stop sporting any time soon. From classic leopard print to the slightly more fashion forward snow leopard; delectable Dalmatian prints splashed across lust-worthy Saint Laurent bags to zebra prints becoming apt outside of the zoo, adorning everything form versatile sweatshirt to clutches and tees – you get where we’re going with this! So when we laid our eyes on two party-perfect zebra-print dresses for this week’s Steep vs. Cheap, we had to put them to you, our savvy shopping and bargain-grabbing but high-end appreciating readers. At the steep end this week, we welcome the Diane von Furstenberg Glasmary zebra-print dress, which cashes in at a wholesome £310. The unrivalled denizen of prints that set your heart aflutter, Diane von Furstenberg knows how to convince even the shyest of the fashion set to douse themselves in eye-popping patterns. Taking a breather from leopard print, we can’t think of a better option than the gorgeous, form-fitting Glasmary dress if you’re looking to splurge. But if you’re a slave to fashion, minus the budget to match, then fear not. We’ve tracked down an equally desirable zebra-print dress at high street haven Mango, for a pocket-pleasing £42.99. Perfect for dressing up with heels, or going off-duty in flat sandals, there will be many repeat wears with this dress, we just know it! Steep: Diane von Furstenberg Glasmary zebra-print dress, £310, available at Net-a-Porter Cheap: Zebra-print dress, £42.99, available at Mango

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Steep vs. Cheap: Pointed red flats

Need a break from heels? After waxing lyrical about the ultra-comfrotable fashion sneaker, we’re moving onto something a little brighter, and chicer. Enter the eye-popping pointed flat pump. A city-stroller’s take on doing pointed heels sans painful feet; we’re a little bit in love with the romantically rich red colour and the overall Parisian vibe these pumps exude. Looking for an investment buy, then look no further than the Jenni Kayne d’orsay flats. Their buttery suede existence, pillar-box red colour and foot-flattering form are making us want to go on the heel fast, and were already dreaming about pairing these beauties with dark skinny jeans, a simple tee and a spacious tote for livening up an off-duty look. But as gorgeous as these Jenni Kayne flats are, at £306.57 they’re set to pinch the pocket. Don’t sweat it though, because we’ve found an equally shop-worthy pair for a fraction of the price! Head to high street haunt Zara, where you can snap up a look-alike version of the d’orsay flats for a mere £19.99! Saving you money whilst keeping you stylish, it’s what we do best. Steep: Jenni Kayne D’Orsay pumps, £306.57, available at Shopbop Cheap: Pointed vamp shoe, £19.99, available at Zara

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Steep vs. Cheap: Floral-print pencil skirt

Douse a boardroom staple in a statement floral-print and next season’s hottest hue, and what do you have? A printed pencil skirt that screams “wear me now”, that’s what! And lusting after pencil skirts we are, as this week’s (price) tag-off is setting a new record for our love of prints! Having graduated from elementary, ditsy florals, it’s all about the hyper print: large, romantic florals swept into a painterly or digi-print haze, and we can’t stop ogling this week’s Steep vs. Cheap options. In at the droolworthy designer end, the floral-print twill pencil skirt from ever-romantics Dolce & Gabbana is a hard-hitter when it comes to clocking up style brownie points. Perfect for punctuating your work uniform with an uplifting shot of print, and equally as fabulous for a night out, heads will turn in this form-fitting pencil number! But cashing in at £522, don’t complain if your purse feels lighter post-purchase. Unable to kick your penchant for a posh pencil skirt, but want to avoid bankruptcy at all costs? High street haunt River Island is here to help! With an equally fabulous version of the Dolce number at a pocket-pleasing £25, the pink floral-print pencil skirt will deliver the style hit your after, without breaking the bank. Win win! Will you splurge or save? Steep: Dolce & Gabbana Floral-print twill pencil skirt, £522, available at My Theresa Cheap: Pink floral-print pencil skirt, £25, available at River Island

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Steep vs. Cheap: LPD (Little Pink Dress)

Ok, here’s a little next season secret we’re letting slip: pink is in, and in a big way.  The autumn/winter 2013 runways were awash with the colour, which ran the gamut from powdery pink at Jonathan Saunders and Simone Rocha to the fiercest fuschia at Lanvin and Antipodium. And wanting to get in on next season’s colour action now is only natural for us fashion insiders, so here’s a desirable shot of the perky colour for with this week’s Steep vs. Cheap. Injecting our wardrobes with a wash of much-needed colour, whilst possibly forcing us into near financial ruin, is this week’s steep choice – Roksanda Ilincic’s Lambton wool-crepe dress. Nabbing this draped-to-perfection LPD will require forking out a princely £705, but if you’ve got the dosh spare then why not? Say hello to new season compliments now! Fretting over faltering on your fashion status due to a lack of wardrobe-expanding funds? Fear not, because we’ve tracked down an equally eye-popping version of the LPD on the high street. Cashing in at a pleasant £195, we’re digging the Alice silk dress from girl-on-a-budget haunt, Reiss. Affording you statement back detail and delivering a jolt of raspberry in pure silk for under £200 – win win! Will you splash out, or curb the cash frittering? Steep: Roksanda Ilincic Lambton wool-crepe dress, £705, available at Net-a-Porter Cheap: Alice silk dress, £195, available at Reiss

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Steep vs. Cheap: Ankle strap pumps

A classic day-to-night heel, the black ankle strap pump oozes sex appeal. The slight strap detail, foot cleavage revealing style and perennially cool all-black shade are staples of modern style, making these heels a practical option, and one you won’t regret. Thanks to the likes of Alexander Wang, Proenza Schouler and Gianvito Rossi bringing sexy back with the ankle strap pump, we’re happily pairing ours with ankle grazing black skinnies and graphic white mini skirts for Parisian editor allure. Only to make it harder for us to decide, high street and high end stores are brimming with endless styles, so we’ve decided to do the leg work and pick out the best steep vs. cheap options your money can buy. Enticing us to part with our hard earned cash, at the high end are the Lovisa pumps from sexy shoe god, Alexander Wang. Featuring a burgundy trim and padded straps; keep in line with the sport-luxe feel of these heels by pairing with dressy track pants and a sloucy tee. But cashing in at £450, it’s safe to say your purse strings may be pulled tight post-purchase! Can’t get the heels out of your head, but don’t have the budget to stretch to high-end? Coming to your rescue is high street haven Zara, where we’ve tracked down the hottest ankle strap pumps for a pocket-pleasing £29.99! Style with ankle-grazing trousers and a silk shirt for office cool. Will you splurge or save? Steep: Alexander Wang Lovisa pumps, £450, available at Harvey Nichols Cheap: High heel pointed ankle straps, £29.99, available at Zara

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Steep vs. Cheap: Red leather clutch

Looking for the perfect clutch in a punchy colour? Look no further, because we’ve tracked down a red hot (literally) option to suit both a generous, and a not so generous budget! Large, envelope-style clutches are fast becoming the arm candy of choice for the ruling fashionistas of the world. Be it a dinner date or  business meeting, serious fashion mavens the likes of Victoria Beckham and the Olsen twins are often papped carrying a multi-purpose clutch; big enough to fit the essentials, but polished enough to make a sleek statement. Coming in at the steep end this week is the super-slick matte-leather and calf hair clutch by Victoria Beckham. Famed for her impeccable style and discerning choice of accessories, this clutch is undoubtedly going to become a super-hit addition to your bag collection. The rich red hue, accented with gold hardware, is perfect for adding a glam touch to a smart-casual look. But cashing in at £450, expect some serious fashion fund depletion! Still need a red clutch fix, though? Fear not, because we’ve tracked a similar option at high street haven Next for a fraction of the price! If you’re feeling the pinch, why not click home the leather envelope clutch, which promises to be an equally stylish addition to your wardrobe as the VB clutch, but for a mere £35. A no-brainer! Will you splash out or curb the credit card spree? Steep: Victoria Beckham matte-leather and calf hair clutch, £450, available at Net-a-Porter. Cheap: Leather envelope clutch bag, £35, available at Next.

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Steep vs. Cheap: Floral Printed Shift Dress

Prints are often mistaken for being too offhand for the office, usually reserved for parties or weekend occasions. But this week’s Steep vs. Cheap is about to change all of that. After searching at the high and low end of the price spectrum, we’ve tracked down the perfect printed shift dresses ideal for work and play, scoring you brownie points with your boss and fash pack friends! Coming in at the deep ‘n’ steep end this week is the Lowry Floral Printed Silk Shift Dress by Erdem. Adorned with a delicate multi-blue and pink petal print, this navy silk shift dress is the perfect high-end hit for work, and great with a pair of colour-pop heels for after hours. But cashing in at a pocket-emptying £560, it’s not exactly a dress for less! However, fear not boardroom beauties and party pretties, because the high street has come up with its own version of this multi-tasking little number. Head to Oasis to snap up the Botanical Lily Shift Dress for a fraction of the price at £33, and fashionably shimmy into your next promotion or after party. Will you be taking a high end hit, or staying true to the pound stretching high street? Steep: Lowry Floral Printed Silk Shift Dress by Erdem, £560, available at Browns Cheap: Botanical Lily Shift Dress, £33, available at Oasis

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Steep vs. Cheap: Printed wide-leg trousers

Sick of spray-on skinnies, and want to slip into something a little looser for summer? The printed wide-leg has returned to fashion’s front line, and our inner 70s boho girl is squealing with sartorial delight! However, wide-leg trousers can be a slippery style slide: too wide, and you risk face planting the floor, not wide enough and it looks like you’re wearing awkward-fitting culottes. But the wide-leg trouser is back with a vengeance for summer, and this week’s Steep vs. Cheap option is guaranteed to be the summer pick-me-up your wardrobe needs. Sneaking in at the steep end this week is the Paisley-print silk-twill wide-leg trouser from cult American brand, J.Crew. With a move to this side of the pond scheduled for later this year, we can’t help but get excited about injecting a little J-Crew goodness into our wardrobe when the store opens on Regent Street! Paired with a block silk shirt for work, or worn with a crocheted bikini top for the beach, this pretty trouser is a versatile way to work prints. But with a £330 price tag, you’re pocket won’t appreciate the pinch as much as you do the print! But why fear when the high street is here! Topshop, the go-to place for every discerning fashionista-on-a-budget, has the perfect pocket-friendly alternative. Cashing in at a pocket-pleasing £45, the Safari floral trouser is a great way to do boho without going broke. Will you splurge or save? Shop our Steep vs. Cheap options below. Steep: Paisley-print silk-twill wide-leg trouser, £330, available at Net-a-Porter Cheap: Safari floral trouser, £45, available at Topshop

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Steep vs. Cheap: Embellished Cat Eye Sunglasses

In recent years, sunglasses have been elevated to a whole new level of desirable. From Céline’s streamlined wayfarer styles to Prada’s super-flattering cat-eye sunnies that suit most face shapes, sunglasses are no longer an afterthought for blocking out the blinding sun. But why go vanilla with your peeper protectors when you can have them in the jazziest form possible? This week’s steep vs. cheap has transported us back to the heady Fifties, when cat eye sunglasses reigned supreme atop prim, fit ‘n’ flare frocks! Coming in at the pocket-emptying end of the spectrum, the Topaz cat eye sunnies by Prada would make a standout addition to your sunglasses collection. Yes, OK, we are very aware that sunglasses are prone to getting lost/sat on/stolen, but who wouldn’t want to adorn their face with a smattering of sparkling green topaz stones? Anything for Mrs. Prada, as long as you have £325 casually lying around! Still want a piece of Prada goodness, yet can’t quite make the pounds stretch? Fear not, Jeepers Peepers (love the name!) at Asos has the perfect, budget-friendly alternative. For a mere £18, the Isabella cat eye sunnies pack a stylish punch with pretty pearl embellishment, so you won’t go unnoticed. What will it be? Spend or splurge? Steep: Prada Topaz Cat Eye Sunglasses, £325, available a Harrods Cheap: Jeepers Peepers Isabella Cat Eye With Faux Pearl Detail Sunglasses, £18, available at Asos

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Steep vs. Cheap: Floral ‘n’ Stripe Vest

You’ve done luxe tees, statement sweaters and gathered enough silk shirts to officially be labelled a hoarder, so we think its time to move onto the next summer-appropriate option. A simple tank top is a wardrobe essential; louche for an off-duty ensemble, or embellished for an evening affair, but finding the balance between over-casual and over-dressy can be tough. So, to put to rest this wardrobe woe, we’ve searched high and low for the perfect tank top at either end of the price spectrum that easily works two different summer trends without being overpowering. First up, at the steep end is the Mother of Pearl Rhondos printed silk and cotton-jersey tank. Perfect for injecting fun into a relaxed look, the tank has a plain cotton-jersey back for those frightened by an all-over print, and is a stylish companion for a weekend spent lazing in a sun-splashed park. But cashing in at £135, it’s not the cheapest addition to your off-duty collection. Budge over budget blasters, and let us introduce a more modestly priced alternative. The satin trim flash floral vest from high street style saviour Oasis is an equally impressive ode to its high end counterpart, and at £16, won’t break the bank. We’re wearing ours with boyfriend jeans and comfy summer flats. Care to splash the cash, or will you be fashionably frugal? Steep: Mother of Pearl Rhondos printed silk and cotton-jersey tank, £135, available at Net-a-Porter Cheap: Satin trim flash floral vest, £16, available at Oasis

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Steep vs. Cheap: Strappy metallic sandal

Although we’re still living in winter when it comes to the weather, there’s nothing to stop the constant stream of sun-soaked fashion thoughts flooding into our minds evey time we open our closets. With out entire summer wardrobe staring back at us, waiting patiently to be worn, we can’t stop adding to our already burgeoning collection of sunny wares, and this week’s Steep vs. Cheap buy is no exception. Forcing us to step out of our snow-proof boots and flash our pedicures is the strappy summer sandal, in all its pretty, metallic glory! At the steep end of the style spectrum this week is the Isabel Marant shiny strappy sandal, cashing in at a bank balance diminishing £550! The stacked mid-heel and metallic strap detail will ensure these beauties deliver a sharp edge to any summery ensemble, but won’t leave behind much change for a 99. On the slightly more frugal side of things, we spied a similar version at Zara, for a not-so-earth-shattering £59.99! The patent sandal promises all the sartorial slickness of its high end counterpart, and even boasts a slightly smaller heel for those not keen on ‘fashion feet’. Which ones will you slip into for summer? Steep: Isabel Marant strappy metallic sandal, £550, available at Matches Cheap: Patent sandal, £59.99, Zara

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Steep vs. Cheap: Spike Bracelet

Every certified fashion addict will know, slipping on a bit of arm bling is the way to take a simple outfit from drab to drool-worthy. Whether you’re a sucker for a statement cuff, or prefer the finer things in life, an ‘arm party’, as aptly dubbed by one very famous blogger, is the key to getting that accessory high we experience when we spot a fashion month street style star with an impressive armful, dashing through a crowded Milanese side street ever so nonchalantly. This week’s Steep vs. Cheap option comes courtesy of the most successful form of embellishment to hit the fashion circuit, like, ever: spikes. Be it on shoulders, down the side of your favourite jeans or on sneakers, a spike is always welcome. So, when we spotted this week’s bank-breaker, the Joomi Lim Metal Luxe Spike Bracelet, it’s safe to say our inner jewellery junkie jumped for joy! Adding a jolt of tough-luxe to the sweetest of outfits, this industrial bracelet of heavy chain links and polished studs is perfect if you’re not a fan of overly feminine jewellery. But cashing in at £70, it won’t leave your pocket looking too pretty… Still love it too much but don’t have the cash to splash? Fear not, because e-tail haven, Asos, has just the pocket-friendly option that’ll deliver all the stylish glory of its high-end counterpart, without the painful price tag. Coming in at £10, the Asos Jewelled Spike Bracelet will leave you with enough change to click home a few more (read: unnecessary-but-totally-worth-it) goodies! Steep: Joomi Lim Metal Luxe Spike Bracelet, £70.47, available at Shopbop Cheap: Jewelled Spike Bracelet, £10, available at Asos

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Steep vs. Cheap: Breton Stripe Sweater

With its gamine allure and a reworking at the hands of fashion greats, including Jean Paul Gaultier and Coco Chanel, the Breton stripe has stood the test of time, trend and style. The perfect finishing touch to an off-duty ensemble, the Breton stripe injects the same dose of chic each time, and for this week’s Steep vs. Cheap options, we love it in sweater form. Making its mark at the high end this week is the Breton striped cashmere sweater by Derek Lam. Spun in luxe cashmere and boasting a longer back hem and stylish ribbed trims, this classic-cool piece rings in at an eye-watering £775! Can’t stretch to such epic financial proportions for the humble Breton stripe then look to this pocket-friendly alternative from High Street saviour, Zara. A super-comfortable mulberry silk and cotton blend, the sweater promises a relaxed fit and makes the perfect option for dressing down jeans and heels for the weekend. Cashing in at £35.99, you’ll be left with enough change to warrant an extra purchase, or three! So which one will it be for you; a cash splash or a more modest approach to adopting the pretty Parisian stripe? Credit cards at the ready, shop both options below. Steep: Derek Lam striped cashmere sweater, £775, available at Net-a-Porter Cheap: Silk and cotton sweater, £35.99, available at Zara

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Steep vs. Cheap: The Check Dress

Check and plaid prints pretty much took over our lives when they made their eye-opening debut for spring/summer 2013. Our favourite looks came courtesy of Dries Van Noten, where dreamy, veiled layers intermixed in a super-wearable way, whilst over at 3.1 Phillip Lim we enjoyed checks and plaid artfully paired with detailed florals. So, how to buy into the trend, you ask? Well, there’s the expensive way, or the pocket pleasing way (you know which one we’re going with), and we’re about to reveal the secret of both! First up, making our tongues wag and our pockets empty is the deluxe way to try this trend. The Danica Plaid dress by Dries Van Noten is a fashion lover’s dream come true, with its grunge-meets-summer-cool appeal. The sheer chiffon overlay and belt detail is heart melting, but before you cave in, the price is worth considering: at a budget restraining £549, you’ll be seriously cutting into that summer style fund. But when there’s a Topshop nearby, there’s a way, and we’ve found it! Coming in at £130 – a snip of the whopper price tag above – we love the Sheer Back Check Dress from Topshop Boutique. The delicate organza silk back detail is a winner and we can’t wait to pair this number with pretty metallic heels when the sun finally decides to make an appearance! Will you be splurging or spending? Steep: Dries Van Noten Danica plaid dress with chiffon overlay, £549, available at My Theresa Cheap: Sheer back midi check dress, £130, available from Topshop Unique

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Steep vs. Cheap: The Summer Blazer

Updating your summer wardrobe means in with fresher, lighter colours and out with the endless sea of winter greys and blacks! A smart jacket is a wardrobe staple, and the perfect cover up for breezy summer nights, when the last thing you want to do is drag a coat around and show off your favourite cocktail dress at once! Suckers for anything with a dash of gold-tone hardware, when we spotted this week’s steep vs. cheap contenders, we couldn’t resist a price tag-off. Forcing you to dig deep is the double-breasted linen jacket from The Kooples – yep, the brand with campaigns featuring ridiculously handsome couples. The linen-blend fabric is a breathable option for when temperatures begin to creep up, and the gold-on-white has a very jet-set, need-a-vacation-now feel to it. But cashing in at £315, even if your skin isn’t sun scorched, your pocket sure will be! Jet-setters on a budget fear not because we’ve found the perfect, pocket-friendly alternative! Ringing in at a mere £34.99, this satin lapel double-breasted blazer from high street style haven, Mango, will be like sweet music to your ears (and purse). We’re wearing ours with tailored shorts and flat sandals for city girl style. So, what will it be? Spend or splurge? Steep: Double-breasted linen jacket, £319, available at The Kooples Cheap: Satin lapel double-breasted blazer, £34.99, available at Mango

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Steep vs. Cheap: Metallic slip-ons

Metallic footwear reigned supreme on the SS’13 runways (yes, thank you Burberry), and we couldn’t think of a better way to slip our feet into spring, than in a pretty pair of metallic heels. We say heels, but – given the unpredictable weather not permitting sandals – chose to be a little more sensible with our choice, and instead opted for shoes. Metallics don’t necessarily need to spell out the futurism trend, sartorially, and instead can be a way of accenting a dark or off-duty outfit for a touch of day glam. First up picking at our (already emptied out) pockets are the Daga heels from Marc by Marc Jacobs. The perfect high-end hit to make a statement in; we love the kooky bauble detail, matte metallic finish and comfortable block heel. If you’re looking to inject a little fun into office footwear, the Daga heels are perfect, and guaranteed to score you extra brownie points from the boss! But sitting pretty at £352, we think a pay rise ‘request’ may be in order. But, if your boss isn’t feeling too generous, fear not! We’ve tracked down the perfect high street metallic option to bring you up to date with the fash pack, without eating into your Pinkberry budget. Head to Topshop and snap up the Jansky slip-ons for a fraction of the price at £65, and work some serious metallic magic on your feet. Are you going steep or cheap? Steep: Marc by Marc Jacobs silver bauble Daga heels, £352, available at My Wardrobe Cheap: Jansky mid-heel slip-ons, £65, available at Topshop

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Steep vs. Cheap: Colour-pop skirt

As summer draws closer, a pop of colour mixed in with a still-stuck-in-winter wardrobe wouldn’t go amiss. Considering you’re probably sick of snapping up printed trousers, coloured denim, and fed up with wearing tights, we’ve picked out a nifty little bright number for this week’s Steep vs. Cheap that’ll certainly put you in the summer mood! Feast your eyes on the colour-pop skirt; a must-have piece with great versatility for styling, and adding that all important shot of colour to life any outfit. Sitting at either end of the spectrum, our bright options won’t disappoint – depending on your budget, of course! First up, at the Steep end is a zingy neon silk-blend floral embroidered skirt by Simone Rocha. Ultra-feminine, we love the beautiful scalloped edge and delicate pattern, making this a certified stand-out wardrobe addition. But with an eye-watering price tag of £725, you’ll need to start saving from now! But if you don’t have the patience of a (stylish) saint, then look to high street haven Topshop for a quick, pocket-friendly fix. Cashing in at a super-affordable £30, the lace skirt by Love is a hot contender for Simone Rocha’s pricier version, and will look great paired with a basic black t-shirt and flat sandals for great summer style. So, will you splurge or save? Steep: Simone Rocha Floral Embroidered Silk-blend Skirt, £725, available at Browns Cheap: Lace Skirt by Love, £30, available at Topshop

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Steep vs. Cheap: Bright leather tote

Much like the classic trench coat, or a durable black boot, the leather tote has acquired wardrobe staple status. Offering a roomy interior paired with a versatile shape, it’s a must in every style maven’s wardrobe. Given its cool credentials, it’s safe to say you’ll be making good use of your leather tote, so snapping up a low quality one may not be the best choice for your pocket or style cred. But see, when a stylish accessory beckons, and your budget can’t stretch to the extremes that an enviable designer version demands, going for an equally stylish yet pocket-friendly option is your best bet. Competing for your cash this week are two lusciously coloured totes sitting pretty at either end of the price spectrum. At the steep end is the Prisma tote from the cool kid of NYC, Alexander Wang. In a delicious shade of tang, complete with a luxe croco-embossed leather trimming, this leather and suede bag is an attention-grabbing addition to any simple off-duty ensemble. But with a fashion fund emptying price tag of £673, does this tote get your vote? On a similarly stylish footing, but with a pocket-pleasing price tag is the leather tote from Zara. This high-end high-street saviour (y’know, famed for those hush-hush purchases that scream Céline, but aren’t) will put a tote in your hands for a mere £89.99 – not such a painful deficit when you compare it to the Prisma, right? Are you sold? Steep: Alexander Wang Prisma tote, £673, available at My Theresa Cheap: Leather shopper, £89.99 available at Zara

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Steep vs. Cheap: Monochrome printed jacket

We love stylish, trend-merging options, and this week’s Steep vs. Cheap does just that. For spring, the formal jacket has as undergone a make-under if you like; to make it more appropriate for those casual days when you feel like throwing a statement jacket over your shoulders. Monochrome and floral prints we’re huge on the Spring 2013 catwalk, and we couldn’t find a better manifestation of the two being beautifully merged than the tailored-to-perfection Stella McCartney Frazier flower-print blazer. Cut to Stella’s signature oversized, almost masculine fit, the Frazier blazer would look great paired with a clashing shirt, or worn over a simple tee and jeans. Although an item you’d definitely get wear out of over the years, the Frazier blazer will still set you back by £980. Painful, especially when it means cutting back on our constant stream of coffee and cupcakes. But fear not! You can have your cake and eat it (pardon the pun) with a pocket friendly version of the Frazier blazer from Next. Yes, the high street haven where you’re guaranteed to spot a runway-inspired piece at a fraction of the price! At only £32, we love this floral jacquard jacket as an easy-on-the eye (and pocket) alternative to its £980 big sister. So, which one will you pick? Flying the flag high for the high street, or are you sticking with the high end version and taking the financial drought that follows in your stride? Steep: Stella McCartney Frazier flower-print blazer, £980 available at Matches Cheap: Cream floral jacquard jacket, £32, available at Next

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Steep vs. Cheap: Heeled cut-out ankle boots

Cut-out boots are having quite a moment. From Balenciaga’s chunky but pricey ones to varied high street replicas; worn without socks or with Fearne Cotton-style ankle grazing ones, they’re fast replacing the wedge sneaker – especially in the comfort stakes. So, when we spotted none other than Rita Ora, the Queen Bee of alternative fashion mash-ups, sporting a lust-worthy cut-out boot front row at the Chanel Couture show in Paris last month, their ‘Hot Right Now’ status was cemented. But Rita’s Alexander Wang ‘Jill’ boots matched her available fashion budget too, cashing in at a pricey £745. Urban to perfection, we love the buckle and lace-up detail, along with the on-trend white platform. But for those of us not blessed with Jay-Z’s Midas touch, a budget version is available! Head over to high street haven Topshop, where you can pick up a similar version for a pocket-pleasing £85. So, will it be a spend or splurge kinda shoe situ for you? Steep: Alexander Wang Jill lace-up leather ankle boots, £745, available at Selfridges Cheap: Aftershock cut-out lace-up boots, £85, available at Topshop

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Steep vs. Cheap: Studded ankle strap heels

Nothing beats a classic, sexy black heel, and this week’s Steep vs. Cheap has us lusting over two similar styles with price tags at opposite ends of the spectrum. Paired with formal office attire or black, ankle-grazing skinny jeans and a slouchy tee for a hint of Parisian insouciance, the classic black heel has upped its glam ante with a splash of studs across a sexy ankle strap, making it a brilliantly flattering and versatile shoe choice. So, shoe hoarders, for those of you with a healthy shoe fund cast your eyes on these calfskin beauties from Valentino. The ultimate in pretty-meets-sexy, we love the studded ankle strap detail with a gold-tone buckle and the 3.5 inch heel is the perfect height to last in all day without screaming out in agony! But, shoe lovers, Valentino’s heavenly wares come with a devilish price tag, meaning you’ll have to part with a wholesome £560 before slipping into this pair! But if you’re stuck on a shoestring budget with an uncontrollable heel collecting habit, then fashion damsel in distress saviour, Zara, has the perfect pocket-friendly option. This studded ankle strap version doesn’t have the same peep-toe detail as its high-end rival, but it’s the closest you can imagine getting to Valentino glory on a Vimto budget! Wear with a willowy, oversize blouse and skinny jeans to soften the vampish undertones. Steep: Calfskin sandal with stud ankle strap, £560, available at Valentino Cheap: Studded sling back with ankle strap, £39.99, available at Zara

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