Looks for Less: Six Splurge-or-Save Picks for June
You guys know I love a good Looks for Less roundup, and this June edition might be one of my favorites yet. Here's the thing: a designer piece can be absolutely worth it, and sometimes the more affordable version is just as good (honestly, sometimes better for how you actually live).
My job is to help you build a healthy, balanced wardrobe, which means knowing when to invest and when to save. So I pulled together six pairings I've been thinking about lately, the splurge right next to its wallet-friendly twin, with my honest take on each.
The Brown Suede Loafer: YSL vs. Tony Bianco
Loafers are everywhere right now, and if you don't own a pair yet, consider this your sign. The YSL pair genuinely changed what we look for in a loafer. That ruching around the toe box takes a shoe that reads a little masculine and gives it a softer, more feminine quality (built in juxtaposition!). They're gorgeous. And the Tony Bianco pair is equally gorgeous in my opinion, way less expensive, and so comfortable I could wear them all day. Trust me on this one.
Tony Bianco Loafers (Shop the Look)
The White Double-Breasted Blazer: Veronica Beard vs. Noli
I own the Veronica Beard Miller Dickey jacket and it is a true workhorse in my closet, the kind of piece I reach for without even thinking. So when I spotted a very similar jacket from Noli at a friendlier price, I had to share! There are a few design differences (the most notable being the notch at the bottom of the jacket), but the overall effect is so close. And can I just say, a white blazer is one of the loveliest ways to refresh your look for the warmer months.
My rule: if a piece makes getting dressed easier, it earns its spot.
Veronica Beard Miller Dickey Jacket (Shop the Look)
The White Blouse: DÔEN vs. Madewell
Some of you saw this one play out on Instagram already. I put the DÔEN Henri top next to the Madewell Blaire as a look for less, and let me tell you, you guys were split on which was which!
The DÔEN Henri has a serious cult following, and the Madewell Blaire is building one of its own. The fabric on the DÔEN is a little more delicate and ethereal, which I love. But here's a fun twist: I styled a client in both the other day and actually preferred how the look for less fit her.
Spoiler alert: you really can't go wrong with either.
The Quilted Tote: MZ Wallace vs. Quince
I carry my MZ Wallace tote on every single vacation. Every one. It is the best airplane tote ever, and for me the $275 was money well spent (it has earned it ten times over). Now Quince has a version at $95 that looks very, very similar. I haven't tried it myself yet, so if you have, please leave a comment below and tell me everything. I would genuinely love to hear how it holds up.
MZ Wallace Bags (Shop the Look)
The Barrel Pant: Ruti vs. Old Navy
I am a huge fan of the Ruti On The Loose Pant. Comfortable, chic, versatile, the whole package. So when I heard the Old Navy sleek tech barrel pant supposedly gives them a run for their money (quite literally), I had to include it.
Bonus: the Old Navy barrel comes in four colors, which makes it easy to find your version. If you've been curious about the barrel shape but didn't want to commit at the higher price, this is a lovely place to start.
Ruti Pant in Brown (Shop the Look)
The Collar Necklace: Thatch vs. BaubleBar
Collar necklaces are having a real moment, and I am here for it. Adding one updates an entire outfit in the easiest way (no closet overhaul required). I own the Thatch version and love that I can swap in different drops to change up the look, almost like a little build-your-own situation. The BaubleBar one is beautiful too. The collar itself is a touch thinner, so it doesn't have quite the same impact, but as a look for less? Really, really good.
As always, every pairing is linked above so you can shop the splurge, the save, or a little of both. A balanced wardrobe isn't about buying everything. It's about choosing the pieces that actually work for your real life.
xx, Hallie