Fashion lovers don't need to break their budgets to replenish their wardrobes with the trendiest new looks this fall. That's because a long list of prominent designers, from Jimmy Choo's Tamara Mellon to Anna Sui, are launching price-conscious secondary lines, partnering with mass retailers or just lowering their prices to appeal to consumers.
Many designers understand that the magic number for shoppers these days hovers around the $100 mark. If that's within your budget, you can now scoop up some of fall's hottest items, a welcome change from the last few years when retailers were predominantly pushing luxury goods
Look first for menswear-inspired looks, such as tailored blazers, Oxford shoes and oversized button-downs--all fashions that can work at the office. The 1980s is another trend that's very popular now--bold shoulders, neon colors and anything with a vintage biker feel is a must-have this season. In addition, ladylike pieces inspired by Dior's "New Look" couldn't be more in fashion, so keep an eye out for pearls, floral-print sheaths and prim cardigans.
Rachel Roy, whose eponymous line has been worn by the likes of Michelle Obama and Kate Hudson, has partnered with Macy's to launch the price-friendly Rachel Rachel Roy. The line hit shelves in August, a move that was motivated by the economic downturn.
"I believe both designers and consumers have had to prioritize practicality over aspiration in this economy," says Roy. Instead of investing in her asymmetrical wool dress from her fall ready-to-wear collection for $1,195, women can opt to buy a black sheath dress from Roy's less expensive line for a fraction of the cost: $109. Roy believes her line will attract customers who are "worldly, educated and modern."
Roy isn't alone in trying her hand at affordable fashion. Jil Sander, master of the woman's power suit, left her namesake label in 2004 and is now launching a collection with Uniqlo called +J in October. Nothing in the collection will exceed $150. The collection includes a crisp white button-down shirt, a tailored black overcoat and cropped gray trousers, all perfect for getting this season's minimalist androgynous look.
By LEAH BOURNE
Forbes.com
Fashion lovers don't need to break their budgets to replenish their wardrobes with the trendiest new looks this fall. That's because a long list of prominent designers, from Jimmy Choo's Tamara Mellon to Anna Sui, are launching price-conscious secondary lines, partnering with mass retailers or just lowering their prices to appeal to consumers. 
