Belle,

I just watched Coco Avant Chanel at the E Street Cinema, and now I’m obsessed with recreating the looks from the film.  The problem is that I can’t afford real Chanel.  Any tips on how to steal the Chanel look without ruining my FICO score?

Caroline B.

Honey, who can afford Coco?  Even on eBay, a Chanel design is way out of a Hill Staffer’s price range.  But never fear, a classic Chanel look can be had for a pittance of the retail if you observe five simple rules.

1. Embrace the Black and the White

If you saw the Chanel Fall 2009 Ready to Wear show, then you know how much Karl Lagerfeld loves black and white.  Thus, any classic Coco Chanel look should try to keep with the black and white color palette.  The good news? Black and white looks great on everyone, and can be found in any price point.

2. Don’t Forget to Fold in the Tweed

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Collarless Tweed Jacket (White House, Black Market, $148)

In addition to black and white, tweed and boucle are Chanel staples.   The collarless jacket is also a signature Chanel piece.  This jacket gives you the texture of tweed with a hint of shine.  It also comes in a price point that most people can afford.  Especially when they use this WHBM coupon code.

3. Mix in a Blouse

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Ruffled Chiffon Blouse (J.Crew, $88)

The blouse is a critical part of any Coco Chanel inspired ensemble.  It should be fitted, and ideally, ruffled.  But if the blouse above is too ruffled for you, you can try this chiffon Madison Michelle blouse that is a bit more architectural.  And the ruffled collar will look great paired with the collarless jacket.

4. Add Pearls, Stir Vigorously

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Ribbon and Pearl Necklace (NY&Co., $24)

I like pearls, and layered pearls is a hot trend right now, but my preference are pearls with a certain je ne ces’t quoi.  Whether it be a ribbon, a metal necklace mixed in, or a flower attached; I like pearls with something extra.  Real or fake, one strand or 20, pearls are undeniably Chanel.

5. Finish with a Dash of Stiletto

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Nude Snake Embossed Pump (Piperlime, $110)

 

If you want to finish off your perfect Chanel look, you need heels.  High heels.  Skyscraper stilts, actually.  While Coco probably preferred something more sensible, the Lagerfeld years have brought about an affinity for the stiletto.  If snake embossed isn’t your thing, suede and leather are perfectly acceptable alternatives.  The only essential is height, and some massaging gel insoles.

Recreating a Chanel look is simple if you follow these rules.  From here, you can add your own take using jewelry and other accessories to express your personality.  But I implore you, do not add a faux Chanel bag to this ensemble.  Because knock-offs just aren’t chic.