Collection Craving

You’ve probably already seen the amazing images from J.Crew’s Fall 2011 Lookbook. Did you also see the Collection Lookbook? There were two outfits in it that really caught my eye, but being Collection and all, they weren’t exactly priced in a way that would allow me to run out and buy each in its entirety.

But then I realized, beyond J.Crew’s strength in styling (okay, and color…and detailing… and a lot of other things that make me love them), the looks were pretty basic and probably things I could pull off for a lot less. So of course I had to see if I could find similar items on the cheap! Here’s what I came up with…how do you think I did?

1. J. Crew Boys’ Cotton-Cashmere Sweatshirt  |  2. Lacoste Knit Interlocking Pencil Skirt  |  3. Halogen Ponte Knit Pencil Skirt  |  4. Top Shop Gaggle Triple Bow Court Shoes  |  5. Aldo ‘Mease’ Pump  |  6. Marc New York Belted Cape Coat  |  7. J.Crew Boys’ Cotton-Cashmere Sweatshirt  |  8. Zara Trousers  |  9. Via Spiga ‘Mia’ Patent Leather Pump  |  10. Calvin Klein ‘Neila’ Pump  |  11. Forever 21 Leatherette Messenger Bag  |  12. Urban Outfitters Deux Lux Flapover Satchel

I’m not kidding about that boys sweater thing. I recently bought a J.Crew boys sweater on sale for like $15 and it is pretty much my fave new sweater!! It looks fantastic with skinny pants or with a-line skirts (think this type of look), has a fitted (but not too fitted) look, and (hallelujah!) isn’t too long on my small frame. Also, it is SO soft. I’m guessing little boys hate itchy sweaters. For size reference, I got a boys size 12, and I’m 5’2″.

There are a couple things I came across that I almost liked more than the J.Crew version. Case in point: those mustard yellow bow shoes from Top Shop. Are those not the cutest things EVER???