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Stealing from Children ……………….. (Old Navy’s Kids Department)

Is it cheating to shop the kids’ department? Probably. I initially wandered through Old Navy’s to see if Girls’ apparel was cheaper than Women’s. It wasn’t, but Old Navy’s cheap to begin with - no biggie. Some of the Girls’ stuff was, however, cuter. Much, much cuter.

Cardigans are like, so hot for fall, particularly those of the lengthier, torso-skimming ilk. This Girls Short-Sleeve Knit Cardigan, $19.50, hits the mark, bigtime. Provided you can fit your boobs into it, as it’s not originally intended for anything beyond training bras.

This Girls Long Prepster Cardigan, also $19.50, affirms that Gossip Girl has reached America’s youth (barf). It’s adorable AND not nearly as costly as Serena’s uniform. Yaay!

I believe the cardies I tried were Girls XL so if you’re a B/C cup, do that. A/B cups can go L; C/D’s can go XXL. And don’t freak about the big sizes. Remember, this shit is for ten-year-olds. Now it’s for Cheap JAPs too!

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Brand Wars: GAP Versus Old Navy

Now, I’m using Old Navy for price-point comparison here. This is not to suggest that the brand doesn’t have its fair share of boring and/or nausea inducing clothing. But while Old Navy’s hit or miss, it’s got one thing going for it that GAP better embrace, and fast, if it continues to produce the crap currently on its racks: Old Navy’s always cheap. And - more often than not - it still manages to be cuter than its overpriced comrade.

Button-Front Sweater Vest, GAP, $58. Women’s Striped Boyfriend Cardigan, Old Navy, $26.50. Added Bonus: Striped option does not make wearer look ten lbs heavier. Next.
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Jumpin’ Jumpers

Old Navy isn’t usually one of my go-tos for stylish, cheap wares; most of the items in their latest “Urban Explorer” line scream elementary school teacher. But these Safari Rompers deserve a serious shout out. I’ve been bored by mini-dresses as of late, and jumpers like this one have revitalized my interest in one piece outfits. That Old Navy only charges $29.50 for the Rompers is the maraschino in the Appletini.

Keep in mind that an ill-fitting jumper looks more like a painter’s smock than like a bold fashion choice - the S was a bit bagalicious on me, so I ordered an XS online (don’t hate). The slightly lame tie-front belt can be easily replaced with a thick, leather one of your choice. Add textured tights, heels or boots and BAM! kickass outfit accomplished.