Let's point the finger at Carrie Bradshaw for the sartorially-sadistic epedemic racing across the psyches of many a fashion-forward woman as they peruse their cluttered closets in search of the perfect outfit. Although she never could have afforded Fendi on a freelancer's budget, Ms. Bradshaw was a fashion chameleon who sauntered around the concrete jungle in Manolos and flitted down West 4th in fabulous frippery slinging a Baguette.
Her walk-through wardrobe was a glam arcadia of irresistible bits and bobs that she carried well (couldn't resist the corniness, my insincerest apologies). And though she had some sartorial missteps along the way that made us cringe, Carrie Bradsaw seemed to always catch our eye like the rare birds, or shall we say, peacocks at Fashion Week who dare to go there.
Although a fictional visualization of a New York woman, Little Miss Bradshaw continues to inspire legions of fashion-girls who pound the pavement in sky-high heels - albeit with some minor tweaks: they have swapped the Manolos for the Gianvitos and traded the Marni for the Mansur to keep it fresh for 2014.
But it was not the exasperatingly-expensive Christian Loboutins that made Carrie Bradshaw - it was Carrie's inimitable style that breathed life into them. So, rest assured, that you can steal her style for a fraction of the cost.
Incorporate a whimsical stand-out accesory - in this case, a Kate Spade wicker bag in the shape of a kitschy, retro Volkswagen does the trick! - and combine this with another eye-catching piece (a zany polka-dot dress does the trick). Mix these statements in with a classic staple like an ivory blazer and add a choker necklace as a sartorial swap to the semi-ratchet nameplate necklace she wore all six seasons. Come on, would she not wear this to dinner with Mr. Big!
It's the Carrie Bradshaw Redux - on a budget!
Jacket by H&M
Dress by Zara
Necklace by Bauble Bar
Bag by Kate Spade
Shoes by Zara