TOPSHOP OPENS TODAY!

Yes, it's true.

Even the Cheap Chic has gotten swept up in the opening of TOPSHOP in the US hullabaloo. No, she will not be one of the hundreds of twentysomething fashionistas lining up this morning (and I guess last night) to be at the 11AM unveiling of 4 Floors and 40000 square feet of UK's version of HM, albeit with clothing "designer" Kate Moss in tow.

However, I, the Cheap Chic decide to look into this culture phenomenon to see if it really is the sheek (but cheap) option for looking stylish on a budget...

Here's what I found:

• Hair Accessories (From $10 to $25. Verdict: My hair ain't worth it.)


• Skinny Jeans (Their flagship product- From $60 to $100. Verdict: More pricey than H&M, but not bad.)


• Sun Dresses ($55 to $80. Verdict: I would have the dress, but no money for sunscreen.)


• T Shirts ($28 to over $100. Verdict: I don't get it. It's a T-Shirt...and what is a slash tee?)


• SALE: Satin Velcro Sandal (Was $135, Now $60. Verdict: Welcome Back, 1982.)

OVERALL VERDICT:

Even on SALE this just ain't the Cheap Chic style for a variety of reasons.

1. I'm a Midwestern gal (e.g. Kate Moss ain't got nothing on these curves.).


2. 28 dollars on a T-Shirt? 55 on a Sun Dress? 10 bucks on a hair accessory? Need I say more?


3. It's Trendy and Hip (e.g. one season wear ONLY and that season was in 1992.).
   


4. Even if I was to go for these prices, I'll go American.

For a tour without the risk of spending check out the video below:

INSIDER LOOK, Business Style:* To get the real lowdown on the risk Topshop is taking opening this mega store during this recession click here.

*So now you know. The Cheap Chic has been know to read Bloomberg.com, Crain's and Business Week (I'm a pseudo business-y geek).