Love the designer, Hate the price?

I am sure you've been hit by the "oh my gosh I must have this *insert designer name here* bug at one point or another.


Haven't we all...


Here are my top 5 sites for you to check out for less expensive swanky gear that won't empty your wallet-

1. Gilt Group Often still has extremely high end items (Why, hello Ms. Herrera, wonderful to see you here!), but I've scored a deal (or 100) on the site. Burberry shoes, Alice & Trixie frocks, and the lovable Fred Perry for the man in your life have all been shipped to my abode.
2. Rue La La  Of course. I love the La La. Boston based (which I may add is wicked awesome),  they score some great deals- I recently got a Valentino wool sweater for under $50. Insane! 
3. Hautelook Includes some less *well known designer* named brands, but also some really great deals. Glam dresses, Lorac makeup, Joie, and  the occasional Decadestwo sale which showcases your classic Chanel, Chloe, as well as other fancy types. Still can't afford it? Often they send coupon codes in the mail for $15 off, etc. 
4. TheOutnet This place is sick. I drool over the Louboutins on the site, but less frequently buy...UNTIL they have their extra 40% off sale... I scored an Armand Basi two piece for $20. Sign up for the emails and go to the site ASAP when this sale happens as the garb sells out quickly!
5. Ideeli Ideeli showcases the lesser known to the higher end designers, at various price points. Betsey Johnson, Calvin Klein, and (gasp) even Prabal Gurung (see below, PrabalGurung.com; Fall 2010...Love).

Additional tips: Most of these sites have super sale days...Sundays, Saturday Blow outs, or Wednesday nights. Many also have Final Sale...but make sure you know how Armani fits you, you cannot return it!