DESIGNER LOOK

Jan 25, 2024

Everyone loves a designer look for less. Here Hugo Buscati for Victoria's Secret catalog makes a nearly identical suit in "virgin rayon" for $1,500 less than Escada's virgin wool version. What busy woman would not rather save money and simplify her life by shopping by phone?

Your blouses are just as important as your suit. Weed out of your closet the stiff and conservative shirts of the 1980s. Liven up your look with double breasted blouses, at least one ruffle blouse, and a lacy bodysuit or camisole for the less serious business at hand.

Stick with cotton, linen or blends with a higher percentage of natural fiber, silk, or silk-like shirts.

Quality materials and workmanship will reflect a better image. Having more solids than patterned blouses will give you more options. If off-white, cream or ivory sallows your complexion, pure white or soft white blouses are your best bet, and vice versa.

Designer version

* Double breasted blazer by Escada by Margaretha Ley $1,140

* Matching mock wrap skirt $460

* Cotton double breasted shirt by Linda Allard/Ellen Tracy $155

* Leather belt with goldtone close by Donna Karan New York $280

* Hoop earrings by Ciner $90

Total: $2,125

DRESS FOR lESS VERSION

* Black and white check suit with sarong style skirt by Hugo Buscati from Victoria's Secret catalog $198

* Silk blouse by Moda Int’l from Victoria's Secret catalog $59

* Hoop earrings from Accessory Place $8

Total: $265

* Barrie is a fashion and image consultant who lives in Leesburg. For information about the clothes or catalogs, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to Dress for Less, Sisters Syndicate, 2244 Asbury Ave., Evanston, IL 60201.

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