The big-screen adaptation of the first book of the beloved series brought the compulsive Miss Bloomwood and her over-the-top wardrobe to life. Say what you want about Becky, but her style definitely gets her noticed. If her aesthetic looks at all familiar to you, it should come as no surprise; the stylist responsible for creating her look is none other than Patricia Field, the same stylist who dressed the cast of Sex and the City and Ugly Betty. Whether you’re a full-blown shopaholic or just a social shopper, we’ve got some pointers on how Field put together Becky’s outfits so that you can get that Shopaholic look without maxing out all your credit cards.
Shopping List: Fashion “Do's”
Expand your palette: Don’t be afraid of bold, bright colors. You’ll stand out from the crowd and showcase your personality. One of the ways Becky likes to wear color is with non-color. In one scene, a black and white dress is played against a bright-yellow coat, belt, shoes and gloves. Another outfit, a tailored ivory Vivienne Westwood jacket and skirt, gets a pop of color from a green bustier and belt. However, Becky isn’t shy about wearing orange, hot-pink, gold and red all at once either!
Embellish your ensemble: It’s all about the details. A simple monochromatic silhouette becomes absolutely fabulous with the addition of bold, dramatic accessories. Becky loves them all: coats, scarves, bags, gloves, belts, hats, jewelry. But even if you’re not the type to pile it all on, you can still look put-together and “individualized” with the addition of one statement piece, like a shiny cuff bracelet or a clutch that matches your shoes.
Mix it up: Even though she loves labels, Becky pairs her couture with inexpensive items from thrift shops and chain stores. The film’s stylist also suggests mixing genres, like vintage with modern or East with West, to create your own signature look. You can see Becky’s eclectic style when she pairs a fuchsia Zac Posen dress with a plum puffy jacket, vintage belt and outrageous fur-trimmed chain boots from Tokyo.
Fall into a pattern: You can do this in a couple of different ways. Use patterns to set off solids, or if you’re more daring, you can mix patterns and textures that share similar colors. In the movie, Becky plays a snow leopard fur bolero against a solid hot-pink dress and an orange and purple plaid poncho against an indigo dress, accessorized with orange gloves and a purple belt.
Shine on a dime: It’s a given that shopaholics love shoes, and lots of them. Patent and metallic shoes made of synthetic materials cost a fraction of those leather Louboutins and have you looking glamorous and gorgeous, all while being animal-friendly. Many designers now make affordable lines for chain stores, which means you really can have it all!
Shopping Spree
For the chronic shopaholic
Like Becky, you revel in excess. You love to stand out wherever you go, and there’s no trend, or combination of trends, you’re too shy to try—or buy. Satisfy your urge to splurge and get more Carrie than Carrie, and even more Samantha than Samantha!
Sample Sale
For the recreational shopper
Though you admire Becky’s flamboyance, you’re not quite ready for that much glamour—or attention. The trick is to incorporate elements of her style to spice up your wardrobe and give yourself a new attitude that still feels like you.
While You’re at It….
Throw these goodies into your shopping bag. They’re totally Becky and totally cute! And they’ll give you an excuse to buy something else to wear with them…
Pink, white and brown tweed cropped jacket
Yellow wool boucle flower jacket
Ivory pinstriped belted safari jacket
Gold and jewel-tone gem necklace
Fuchsia snakeskin tote
Yellow patent pumps
Ivory and black houndstooth coat
Back and white plaid coat
Purple and grey plaid scarf
