Dressing Your Truth - Spreading The Love!

I just had to let you know that Dressing Your Truth is at it again! They are Spreading The Love and they want you to be a part of it! I cannot even begin to tell you how much this program has changed my life. You can read a bit about my journey with DYT here.

This is an awesome time to become a part of Dressing Your Truth.

Want to see something amazing? Just check out these before and afters!

Dressing Your Truth - It's Changed My Life

Have you ever experienced something that has changed your life? Well, in the past few months, I have. But it was only when I decided to commit myself and not just flake through it. But first, let me give you a little background.

I've struggeled since childhood to love my appearance. I was always got caught in the comparision game even at an elementary school age. My clothes weren't as cool, my hair wasn't as great, I wasn't as tiny, my teeth were crooked...and on and on the things I said to myself went. It's truly been a struggle for me in every way. It probably didn't help that I was drawn to more of a "different" kind of style. I remember once writing in my journal about why it wasn't fair that I didn't like crew neck sweatshirts like all of the rest of the girls. I loved my second hand tee shirts with funny sayings. My favorite was "Bald is Beautiful. God only created so many perfect heads - the rest he covered with hair." I loved that shirt! I didn't fit the typical mold and though I loved putting my outfits together, I so often felt out of place.

When I was in my first year of Master's Commission, I had a real struggle with myself. I was in a new place, a new city, surrounded by people I didn't know, who were dripping with talent, experience and style. I felt like a schmoe - whatever a schmoe is. And finally one day, after realizing that everytime I looked in the mirror, I was picking out my flaws. And I stopped. I stopped to look at myself. To truly stare myself in the eyes and see who I was. I looked at my lips. I looked at my eyes. I looked at my nose. I stared at myself. This was my face. This was my body. THIS was my physical apperance. This is how God created me. Perfect in his eyes.

It was an eye opening experience for me to actually see myself as I truly was. Later that day I had a long conversation with my Director of our Master's Commission team. He helped me realize I was a person who had a lot of "trophies" but lacked the knowledge of who I truly was to help walk in that truth. See, I was my high school prom queen. I had won first runner-up in a beauty pagent at our county fair. I had been the leader and president of a number of groups. I had a ton of friends. It wasn't like I was stuck in a corner isolated in my life. I had a vibrant, active, full life. I just had this incredible internal struggle. My Director gave me a list of scriptures that eventually helped changed my life. They were Bible verses that specifically show us who God says we are. I challenged myself to read a scripture a day and to concentrate on living that out. I would pray over the verse, journal about my thoughts and speak it forth all day long. It was truly, truly life changing. And God began to really erase those dark areas of my heart that had been shrouded in insecurity. Just a couple of weeks ago, Christine and I were talking about our weight loss journies, and she said "I never hear you say anything negative about yourself." And I don't. I've been changed from the inside and it's a stronghold that has been broken. My prayer and challenge in this life is to help other women break that in themselves too with the truth of God's Word.

Enter a few months ago.

My mother-in-law came across a program called "Dressing Your Truth". She had been blog reading and came across one woman's experience with this life changing program. And from that instant, we were hooked. Dressing Your Truth can best be described as a makeover program that teaches you how to highlight your natural beauty so you look amazing and feel great. It's absolutely changed my life. Before, dresssing was a struggle. Now it's freedom and I'm excited about creating outfits. I've learned how to purchase clothes and wear my hair that honors my true beauty. I'm finally wearing all of my clothes because I've gone through all of the clothes that don't honor me anymore and what I'm left with is stuff that truly highlights who I am. I'm excited to get dressed. I'll tell you two quick stories and then I'll share with you how you can find out more about Dressing your Truth.

Story #1: A month or so ago, I took Aubrey to our local science center for an outing. We met up with two friends and their kiddos. I was dressed in a white long sleeved tee shirt, jeans, and had on a gold/pearl necklace with a big white flower pinned to it. (The same outfit as in the photo above - but with the addition of the flower. Like in the photo below.) Nothing spectacular - and in fact, probably not as stylish as the fashion industry would have you think. In fact, the two girls I was with would probably have been considered much more stylish. They were both dressed head to toe in black. They had on tights and knee high boots and killer accessories. They really looked great. But as we were walking down one coridor of the science center, one of the workers looked right at me and said "Wow! You look amazing!" I honestly thought she was talking to Aubrey as she was decked out pretty cute and I looked down at her and smiled. But the woman was looking at me! And I sort of fumbled and said "Oh, me?" And she said "Yes! You look so great!" I was quiet shocked honestly but accepted her compliment and beamed. It felt really good. I felt bad that the comment was said right in front of the other two moms, but I knew that DYT was changing how others saw me.

Story #2: I had an appointment at the bank to open a new bank account for Scentsy. As I approached the desk to tell them I was there for my appointment, the woman's eyes sort of lit up and she said "You are so beautiful!" It again, took me aback, and I told her how kind she was to say that. But she kept going on about how great I looked. Mind you, I wasn't in anything spectacular. A pretty white coat I bought at Old Navy, jeans, my purse, my hair done - really that's all you could see. But everything was honoring my type of beauty. As I waited for my appointment I even sent out a facebook update about how you should always compliment someone when you admire what they are doing/wearing because you never know how you could make their day. Later at that same appointment, I had the same sort of experience with the girl opening my new account and from the woman who approved my identification. At the end of my appointment, all three women were gathered around the check-in desk raving about how good I looked. It was unreal.

I tell you those two stories to share with you how life changing this program has been for me. And honestly, that's just two stories out of a host of situations where I have been stopped and complimented. It's not because I'm wearing something super fabulous or expensive. No, most of my clothes come from Old Navy. My jewelery is mostly from Walmart. I'm still a stay-at-home mom who get stains on her clothes. It's not that I'm drop dead gorgeous. Hello, no. :) But I've learned to take the beauty, the energy, the personality God has given me and use them to truly draw out my own beauty. This program has been life changing for me. I am confident inside and out. Finally, my outside matches my inside.

Dressing Your Truth has changed my life and the lives of countless other women - and men! I can't tell you what it's done to my marriage. I finally am at a point where I understand Shane and he gets me. It's incredible. This fall, my mother-in-law and I head out to a Dressing Your Truth confrence; Be You, Be Beautiful. I can't wait!

So, if you're interested in learning more about DYT, there is an awesome offer happening right now. You can get the Beauty Profiling Course (where you learn about your specific type of beauty) for FREE. Normally it's $39. And, once you learn what your type of beauty is (there are 4), then you take the Beauty Profiling Course to learn what clothes, colors, fabrication (and more) is best for your type of beauty. It's been the most freeing thing ever. The course is on sale for $99 until March 31st. It's normaly over $250.

So, if you're like me and you've ever experienced insecurity - or if you're moving through life and people just dont' "get you", I would encourage you to look at Dressing Your Truth. It's changed my life inside and out.

And P.S. If you go through the course - I am a Type 1. The Bright, Animated Woman. :)

Fall Wardrobe Inspiration

Goodness gracious, I can't wait for Fall! If you know anything about me, you know that Fall is my most favorite time of year. I could go on all day about my love for the autominal season. But instead, I'm going to show you some of my favorite clothing looks for Fall! I can't wait to go clothes shopping. Between pregnancy and losing weight with Weight Watchers, it's definatly time for a major wardrobe overhaul. Get ready for a little Fall wardrobe inspiration!

I think it will be the year of the cardigan for me! I'm loving cardigans with cute shirts underneath.

I love everything about this look. And yes, I think I'd even use that gold bag!

So sweet for a date night with my man. I won't be investing in any skinny jeans but I love the rinse on these jeans just the same. And how cute are those polka dot flats?

I love this look for closer to the end of Fall - or when the days get bitter cold here. I've never worn knee-high boots before but we'll see if they make it into my wardrobe. I definatly love the look!

Everything about this look is so sweet to me. This would be the most perfect outfit to wear on a weekend running errands. I wish it was in my closet right now!

Hello gorgeous nails!

Another cardigan! I'm so anxious to introduce navy into my wardrobe.

Another cute date night outfit. I saw a similar leopard print cardigan at the Gap outlet that I just can't stop dreaming about. I'll definatly be making one of those babies mine!

Ruffles and a cardigan? Be still my heart!

Believe it or not, I'm so into gold jewelry right now! What a switch for me! And, I'm even going to attempt to wear some scarves. I love and adore this outfit.

I love love love this red cardigan. And with little pearl studs? I just can't wait to go shopping!

I adore everything about this color combination.

Are you ready for some football? I know I am! And I don't even watch it that much! Ha!

I can't wait for Fall for numerous reasons. And one of the main ones is the cute, cuddley clothes. I can't wait to go shopping and use these pictures as inspiratoin!!

All images via Pinterest via Polyvore.

Are you on Pinterest? Come follow me and I'll follow you back! I'm always looking for good inspiration!

Beauty Finds for Cheap

I love beauty products. I'm a beauty product junkie of sorts. When I walk into a store like Sephora it's like the heavens open up and I hear angels singing. It's glorious. I love the shimmer of eyeshadows. The glisten of a gloss. The beauty of dark black eyelashes. Love it! Sometimes I wish I had become a makeup artist. But alas, I'm a makeup artist trapped inside of a stay-at-home-wife's body.

But here's where the real trouble begins. I find that I my love of beauty products is hampered by my wallet and the lack of funds inside of it. So let me share with you some tips that I use and products that I love to give you a little glitz without spending a lot of cash.



1. It's coming on those warmer months and we need to lighten up our makeup load. Think lighter eyeshadows or even none at all. Glosses instead of dark lipsticks. Dropping the eyeliner. But how do you lighten up on your foundation especially if you need the coverage? Well, try this trick.

Instead of purchasing a tinted moisturizer, use a dab of your own liquid foundation and mix it with a dallop of your own mouisturizer. Mix the two together on the back of your hand. The warmth of your hand will help to meld the products together. Apply to your face and smile because you just saved yourself some money while getting the benefits of a foundation you love and a mouisturizer you already have. Give yourself a pat on the back if your mouisturizer has an SPF in it.

2. I love a good facial cleanser. I wear makeup everyday and loads of mascara (I told you that I love makeup!) so I need something that is gentle on my skin but powerful enough to wash away the days makeup. I found an amazing product that retails here in Canada for $3.77 (at Walmart). It is St. Ives facial cleanser. More apptly called "St. Ive's Pure Pore Cleanser". This product is so incredibly powerful that I do not need to remove my mascara before using it. But so gentle that my skins feels wonderful after using it. I just recommended it to my sister-n-law and brother-n-law. They bought it and haven't heard any complaints yet. In fact, I would choose this product over a more "expensive" brand.

3. Speaking of St. Ives...I love their products in general. I've been using them for years and love the inexpensive pricetag and the quality of the product. Here is another item that I love. Facial masks. In this tough economic time, I doubt many of us are rushing to the spa to have a facial. Even when times were good I wasn't rushing there for a facial! I tend to like to do them at home. I use St. Ives and Freeman facial masks. There are wonderful clay masks (greens and purples and blues) and masks that you spread on your face and then peel off. Oh my can that be some cheap fun. Here is what I recommend doing:

Masks work best if you follow a routine. Whether that is a mask once a week or try this tip from a Mary Kay rep that I know - do your masks on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. It's an easy schedule to remember. [Facial masks are gentle on your skin so that kind of schedule shouldn't be too much but if it is, try just the once a week approach.] Cleanse your skin thoroughly with warm water. Then apply the facial mask avoiding the eye area. Smooth up to hairline and down onto the neck. You can even use it on your chest but doing so may make you just have to stay in the bathroom for awhile unless you are home alone. Follow product instructions as far as wait times. When ready, wash skin thoroughly. Splash cold water on face to close pores. Then follow through with a mouisturizer. You will be amazed at how wonderful your skin will feel with a product that costs under $5.

4. I recently ran out of blush but money was tight and I didn't want to spend seven or eight dollars on a new one. So, I went for this product. N.Y.C. Blendable blush. It is a mix of different colors and shades just like many other expensive brands but for a fraction of the price. I absolutley love the color that it gives me and the price tag. It was $4.53. The great thing about this too is that there was a bronzer with the multi-faceted pallete as well. Can't wait to get that too!

5. I have long said that if I were ever famous, I would want to endorse this next product. It is Wet n Wild nailpolish. I love love love this product. And though I am not famous I do want to recommend this product to you. There are many many many wonderful colors to choose from as well as finishes and drying times. I can't even begin to tell you the quality that I have found in Wet n Wild polishes. I would honestly compare their long lasting quality to a Sally Hansen nail polish. Just use like you would like doing a manicure with a more expensive brand...start with clean, polish free nails. Paint. And add a clear top coat. I promise you will like this product. Well I hope you do anyways! And at less than $1 per bottle try a number of colors!

[On their website I see that it was a CosmoGirl Kiss of Beauty award winner in 2006.]

6. Speaking of giving yourself a manicure, why not give yourself a pedicure at home? Last year I got my first pedicure in a salon. It was AMAZING and I will definatly be going back. Great experience. Highly recommend that you get a pedicure even if it's just at the begining of sandal season. But, if you can't afford it, try this at home wonder.

Get yourself a large basin. I bought one for $1 at the dollar store. Heat some water in a kettle on the stove. Don't boil! Just warm it. Add a drop or two of your favorite shampoo to your basin. Now add the warm water. Test water first before plunking in your tootsies. Now settle in for a wonderful foot bath. [I really like to take this over the top by snuggeling in my pink robe, a face mask and watching a good movie.] What a wonderful treat! You can do this while hanging out with your family in the evening. It truly is a great experience. And I just bet that if your kiddos and hubby see you doing this, they will want a foot bath too! My husband always does!

Don't forget to paint your pretty peds with your Wet N Wild nail polish! Try a vibrant pink.

7. The product that I can't get enough of is baby oil. Can you say....CHEAP? And what a multi-functional product! I bought a bottle of baby oil at the dollar store three years ago and am still using it. I use it every day too. How you ask? Well, it is my number 1 and only way that I remove my mascara. I've said it before, but I wear three mascara's to give me my look. And you better know that trying to remove them sometimes can be a bear. But baby oil is wonderful, gentle and with a few quick swipes, I am mascara free. Baby oil also removes lipstick - especially the long wearing kind. Did your kid put on one of those fake tattoos and you just hate it? Baby oil will take it right off. The oil is also a wonderful moisturizer. Add a few drops to your foot bath or your bath water. Your skin will thank you. Or, rub it into the ends of your damaged hair. And lastly, here is a tip that my sister in law does for gorgeous, soft skin:

Take a warm shower. When you are done, spread a thick layer of baby oil all over your skin. Allow to absorb for at least 15 minutes. If at the end of your time there is still some oil, spread it into skin or wipe off gently with a towel. How delicious is that?!

8. And finally, let's not forget the joy of a bath. When you've got wonderful smelling soaps and shampoos and lotions and potions, sinking into a warm bath at the end of a long day can be so luxorious. Light a few candles. Lower the lights. Turn on some soft music. Sink in with a wonderful book and enjoy those moments to yourself. The important thing is to remember to take time for you. We're all working hard at our life, doing the best we can to make ends meet and to live and love fully. Sometimes things just get a little too taxing but we can't put ourselves on the back burner. A good leader takes 50% of his time to take care of himself. As a leader in your household, remember to take time for yourself. You deserve it. You've earned it. Don't deny yourself.

Finally, I want to tell you about my friend's new blog. Tutu Tina is her online name and she's got a blog full of info on makeup. There are product recommendations and suggestions as well as information on different companies. I'm hooked! So pop on over. Tell her Hi and sit a spell. She's got some really inexpensive suggestions.

Hope everyone has a wonderful day!! You all are the best.

Did you know that? You are!!

Love ya all!!

-Mandi

Thrifty Fashion Tips: Part 3

Well hello my thrifty sistahs! It's time for another full-on frugal fashion post. This time we are going to talk about what to look for in your pieces to take them from looking inexpensive and boring to expensive looking and sharp.

I'm talking about the little details. You see, sometimes clothes are cheap because well, they look cheap. There is nothing interesting about them. The fabric is plain ol' 100% cotton and the only details is that they have a hem. B-O-R-I-N-G.

If I'm totally honest with you, I have a gazillion plain long sleeved (and short) tee shirts. I have them in every color under the rainbow with v-necks and scoop necks and crew necks and boat necks and turtlenecks. Every kind of neck you can think of. This chick has certainly learned upon going through my closet, that long sleeved plain shirts are something that I no longer need to buy. (Stay tuned for the next post because I'll be showing you how I dress up those plain shirts of mine.)In any case, I've also done myself some justice by buying peices with detail. Glorious, beautiful detail.

Let me show you what I mean.

(In case you were hoping that I would show you what I am wearing or what's in my closet, today isn't the post. My camera batteries died after I put them into my new Swiffer WetJet and therefore I can't take any photos. So sorry! Maybe I'll do an update when I buy some new batteries.)


Let's take a look at the classic white tee shirt. A white tee shirt. Everyone should have one, right? So classic. So fresh. So beautiful and so clean looking. But a white tee shirt can also hinge on the dull side if you aren't careful. Take a peek at this lovely shirt from Old Navy.

First of all, we can see that it has a pretty scoop neck. Show off those pretty collar bones ladies! And just take a look at the sweet embroidery around that scoop neck. Lovely! So full of detail. Look at the folds and draping created by the embroidery. And finally, take not of the sleeves. They are a shorter sleeve - you'll probably need some good arms to wear this baby. But it's certainly not your typical boring normal tee shirt sleeve. This shirt is only $12.50 at oldnavy.com. Sweet and full of detail.

1. Look for items with embroidery, ribbon detail, rouching (gathering of fabric), beadwork - any special touches to give your piece interest.

Again, here is a pretty shirt from oldnavy.com for $19.50. We probably all have a button down shirt or two or three hanging in our closet. How do we make sure that we don't look like a waiter while we are wearing them? Well, again look for the details. Look at this shirt. What details do you see?

Yep, more gathered fabric. I find that look just so nice. What else?

The sleeves! Yes! Do you see that band around the bottom of the sleeve? I imagine that on the backside of that sleeve is a lovely little button holding that cuffed sleeve. Wonderful!

I'm sure you saw the hem of this shirt. Cut higher around the thighs. Do you remember how the magazines say that when you are looking for a bathing suit you want to make your legs look longer so to choose a high cut swim suit? Well, you get a bit of that effect here as well. Your leg line isn't being cut off by a straight hemmed shirt. It's pretty. And because it's a nice cut it can either be worn untucked or tucked into a great pair of dark denim jeans with a rockin' belt.

Do you notice any other details? Who said color? Right on! Gals, please, if there is anything I can pass on to you...please do not be afraid of color. It's that spot of sunshine that makes the world go 'round. I think sometimes it can be easy to shy away from a soft orange shirt of a bright pink shoe because we are afraid to draw attention to ourselves. Let me just tell you, you will be drawing attention to yourself in a good way! If the thought of wearing something saturated has you weak at the knees, try wearing something bright in a necklace, earrings or a big bold bangel. Or, wear that robins egg blue tee shirt but wear a white jacket over it so you see just a small panel of color.

Here's a personal example of color in my life. I bought this gorgeous, bright pink coat for spring. I wear it as often as possible because I just love it so much. But it's bright pink. I could imagine that color could scare some people away from ever buying such a thing. But let me tell you, every single time I wear it, I have gotten a compliment on it. Every time. It's not me they are complimenting...no, they are saying "I love your coat!" "What a pretty coat." "What a great color of coat." Please, don't be afraid of color.

2. Don't be afraid of color. Dare to be colorful.

Here is a great purple sweater cardigan that could carry many of us through the spring months. I don't know about you sistah's living in the southern states but I think most of us could wear this lightweight sweater and get away with it. It is $26.50 from oldnavy.com.

When I'm looking for clothing pieces, I look for interesting things like belts. You could wear this belted in the front and buttoned down as shown. Or how about leaving the cardigan unbottuned and tied in the back? How is that for a whole new look? I love to tie belts in the back. It's a little unexpected. When you get a belted item, you can definatly switch up the look at bit more. That's really working your dollar!

For more details, we've got again, interesting details on the sleeves. There is embroidery on the cardigan opening and take a look at that hem!

3. Look for added extra's like a belt of a detatchable collar. This is like getting two or three looks in one!

And lastly, here is this beauty of a shirt. I can so say that because I bought this shirt! I purchased it in a bright yellow dotted (just like the only below) and also in a dark blue floral type print. Details are written all over this shirt. From gathered fabric to a one button closure, to interesting cuffs to an great color and print. But my favorite part? Check out the layered hem! Three pleats! How is that for detail?? Can you guess how much this shirt is on sale for at Old Navy? $7.99! I bought both of mine for $11.99 each. And.....

SALE ALERT! Old Navy is having their stuff and save sale for cardholders where everything you can place in their special bag, you can 20% off of. Sweet! I always love that sale.

So there are a few things to look for while shopping for your pieces. Look for the details. It's in those details that you find true value. You can go from hum-drum to wow by just looking for those little things.

Interested in reading more?

Thrifty Fashion Tips: Post Part 1

Thrifty Fashion Tips: Post Part 2

Do you look for details? If so, what do you look for?

Thrifty Fashion Tips: Part 2

Can I just say how incredibly encouraged and excited I was that so many of you enjoyed my little fashion posting? Can I also tell you that I almost deleted the entire post because I thought surely no one would be interested. I was about this close (I'm holding up my fingers in that little way you do when you are saying 'I was this close...'). So, I was renewed and excited and here I am with the second installment. But before we begin, I do want to tell you that I have weeded out my closet just like I promised. I got my clothing ready for a yard sale this summer. I'm getting ready to bring out my spring items soon and will again do the same processes. I'm finding that I want to love the things that I am owning and wearing and in that, I am choosing to let go of the things that are not getting me towards that goal.


So! Let's get started!


Now that we have narrowed our focus down to the pieces that we need, lets talk about where to find those new things. I will let you know right now that I hardly ever shop the thrift store for clothes. I know that there are so many of you who find wonderful things there. I am not one of them. Our thrift store here is anything but thrifty and I find that I can have much more success shopping clearance racks for new items than shopping at our local thrift-oh-I-mean-let's-jack-up-the-prices store. I would encourage you to check your local thrift store for great deals. My mom got a brand new, $159 Ralph Lauren sweater (with the tags on) for $2.69 at her thrift store. Here's her post about it. I, unfortunatly, would not have that sort of luck. So, I look elsewhere.

First, I always check the ads for my local stores. Sears runs a weekly circular ad and some clothing stores do as well. I always check those first for my bargins. If I don't find something I like, then I'm certainly not wasting time heading to the store that week. I would encourage you to do the same. I know when I was living at home in PA, I was always excited to see what Kohl's would have on sale. Target as well! Get familiar with the price points of your favorite stores. Also become familiar with the quality of the clothing and it's manufacturer. One store's white tee-shirt may not be the same quality as another stores white tee-shirt. Get recommendations from friends. If your friend has a great button down blouse, ask her where she got it. We all love compliments and don't you just love to share where you got a good score? I know I do!

I often head to Old Navy for things like long sleeved shirts, tee shirts (and once these arms of mine get a bit more buff) tank tops. They carry a lot of your basics at really affordable price points. They are often running 2/for deals where you can scoop up a few pieces for a steal. They also run frequent sales and promotions. It pays to get onto their mailing list. I just signed up for the Canadian mailing list and was given a $10 off coupon on my purchase of $50 or more. I also find too that their website will offer different promotions than ones that run in the store. So sometimes, there are more savings to be had. Have you bought from them online? I have. They have their "famous $5 shipping". It doesn't matter how much or little you spend...$5! A little while ago, I shared with you how I scored some major deals at Old Navy. I plan to show you photos of those clothes but let's just say I scooped up a number of long sleeved knit shirts for $3.97 each! Deals are to be had! Jump on their mailing list, check the website and don't be afraid to stop into the store for some screamin' sales. And be on the lookout for this: When you check out, often times a survey will be attatched to your reciept. Fill out the quick online survey and you will get a coupon code for 15% off your next purchase...on top of your savings!!


Have you shopped the Walmart clothing depo lately? I havne't here in Canada, but let me say that I was DROOLING over some of the cute things on the Walmart website tonight. Let me show you...and then let me tell you about how to get those deals even if your store doesn't have them.

Remember how we all need an LBD? Here's one for $20! Plus it's Jersey knit. That stuff just doens't wrinkle and feels like a dream when you wear it. I love jersey knit.

I would definatly pick this skirt up. So pretty! Imagine it with a cute t-shirt or dress it up with a beaded tank. I love to wear skirts in the summer.

You absolutely cannot go wrong with a beautiful coat. A coat with in a gorgeous color can make you go from drab to fab. Even if you are wearing a stained up, ripped up, let's-hope-I-don't-see-anyone-I-know-in-public tee-shirt, a coat will carry you through. It hides that mess and presents a gorgeous front. They key is to get a flattering cut and color. How about melon? Stacey London once said that melon is the number one color that any skin color can wear. I think I agree with her. I want this coat!! And at $15, I'm really debating it....

Are you into wearing organic clothing? How about these tee-shirts for only $8. Organic! $8!

There are plenty of things for sale on their website that just don't make it into every store. I can speak a bit to that because I worked at Walmart for almost three years. Have you heard about walmart.com's shipping options? Let me tell you about them.

They have their 97 cent shipping on many items. That's wonderful! The item ships straight to your home. Can't beat that....or can you? Have you heard of their Site to Store shipping? What you do, is purchase the item online, pay for it online, and the item ships for free to your local Walmart store...you get a call in about a week when it comes in, and there you go! Free shipping! Nervous about putting your credit card online? Well, here's what you do. Fill your virtual shopping cart. Figure out the total of items (remember your free shipping) and then head to your local Walmart. Grab a gift card and put the amount of your virtual shopping cart onto your gift card. Then use the gift card on walmart.com to pay for your items. Wonderful! I used to help customers all the time to order items right there at our store and they would always pay with a gift card. I'm a big advocate for trying on items before you buy them...so if you do order something and it doesn't fit, you can always return the item to your local Walmart store. (Definatly verify first with your local Wally World, but we were always able too.)

Here is another website with cute, trendy, inexpensive items. Forever 21. I could look at this site for hours! The prices are w-o-n-d-e-r-f-u-l! Here are some of their new arrival dressy tops that I just loved. I couldn't even begin to browse the rest of the site...I'd never finish this post!

This top would be so great on a hot day when you want to feel comfy and beautiful. Breezy is the word that comes to mind.

Are you looking for something just a bit more special? How about this lovely lace beauty? I definatly want this shirt!

I love how this top is nipped in at the waist. So so pretty!

Would you like to wear this? I picture a gorgeous chunky necklace paired with it.

Don't be afraid to explore this store! There are so many wonderful things! If the cut is good and the color is flattering and if you have the right attitude, you can pull anything off! For my Canadian sista's, Forever21 offers Canadian prices and shipping as well.

And another store for my Canadian girls...Joe Fresh! For those who don't know, Joe Fresh is an amazingly trendy, cute, affordable line at our local...grocery store!! The designer has been in the industry for more than 25 years designing for the likes of Alfred Sung and Club Monaco. Pretty neat, eh? Here are some looks from the Spring '09 collection. I was disapointed that there weren't more options on the website...but check out your local Superstore or Independent. Cutest clothes!!






And finally, don't forget about stores like TJMaxx for some great bargins. My local TJMaxx also offers 30 day layaway so if you find a great piece but can't swing it just yet, throw it into layaway. Also, please don't be scared off by big department stores. Sometimes they can have amazing sales! I find that The Gap has great pieces on their clearance racks. Their quality is so good. I bought a jeans skirt in their store 6 years ago and it still works in my wardrobe...and has lasted like iron.

Here's another idea. If you have a particular brand of clothing that you love or a store that has the styles that totally cater to your sweet self, try this. (Let's take J.Crew for example.) Go into your local "J.Crew" and try on clothes. Spend some time trying on shirts, pants, jeans, dresses...you name it. And take note of the sizes. Write them down if need be. Then, head to ebay. Plug into the search engine "J.Crew" and be amazed at the items that pop up. Now narrow it down by your size. My sister did this with a white peacoat that she wanted. It was listed for much cheaper on ebay than in the store.

The key is to this process is to know your stores. Get onto their mailing lists. Create an email account for just your online newsletters and promotions so your personal email account doesn't get flooded with spam. Scan the newspaper for coupons. Macy's will often put coupons into the newspaper. Search them out. Don't be afraid to try new stores if you see a sale is going on. Again, stick with quality foundational pieces. You can never go wrong with that. Search search search. Remember your outfits from your inspiration board. Can you recreate them on the cheap?

Often times, I find the best deals when I'm not looking. And don't be afraid to ask if a store can hold a piece for you for 24 hours...or a half hour...until you can come back to buy it. Often times, they will. I find if I see something, and don't buy it, but am still thinking about it a couple days later, chances are, I know that I will truly love that item and will wear it wholeheartedly.


I hope you enjoyed this uber long post! There are still more to come! Next I will show you some of my own clothes and how I mix and match it up.

And here are two more stores that I just didn't get to that you may want to check out:

Francessa Collection

Jessica London - Plus Sized Fashions

Do you have a favorite store? Where do you get your best bargains? Any tips to share?

Thrifty Fashion Tips: Part 1

We all want to look good, right? I mean, fundamentally, we want to feel good about ourselves in the things that we are wearing. We choose clothing to express our style or our mood or the presence we want to convey. You usually won't see a anyone exercising at the gym in her business suit and you probably won't find a woman in a bright flashy dress at a funeral. Not one with tact anyways. Our clothes help define who we are. Or they are at least our message to the world.

I'm going to start a little mini series of sorts on building a wardrobe on a budget. I want to share with you how I get by on a minimal clothing budget and how I do that with as much style as I can muster. I want to share with you my tips and tricks for dressing the best that I can on a tiny amount. Hang with me and let's chat about looking gorgeous while keeping your green in your pocket.

The first thing I want to share is how to build your wardrobe.

We're going to dive in on how to:

• find our personal style
• the top pieces you should own
• sorting through our closets
• developing a personal wardrobe shopping list.

In upcoming posts, I'll share with you my tips and tricks on shopping, where the deals are, and we'll even include how to care for those new duds. I'll show you photos of my own clothes - including my recent outfits I bought - and how I'm extending my wardrobe. Remember, I'm on this journey too. Look for these posts coming soon!

So let's begin, shall we?


Developing YOUR Style
Isaac Mizrahi, the fashion designer, wrote a new book entitled "How to Have Style". I picked it up recently at my local library and read it through. He took 12 very normal women with very normal dressing challenges (budget, body type, etc...) and helped them develop their unique sense of style while working through and around their challenges.

The thing I really walked away from his book is this: Know your style.

What if you don't know what your style is? Well, you can certainly read the book (I recommend it!) or you can do what I'm sharing with you. This is per Isaac's instructions.

In a nutshell, you're going to make a style inspiration board. Grab a bunch of magazines. Find clothing catalogs. Maybe even search the web at some of your favorite stores. Pour yourself a Pepsi and rip out the things that inspire you. It could be a color. A haircut. A great floral skirt. A ruffled blouse. Pink Converse sneakers. Whatever you like. Perhaps it is a photo of an actress you admire. Or a band that you rock out to. Whatever it is, gather your pictures. Paste them to a piece of poster/Bristol board or pin to a bulletin board. What do you see? What are the recurring themes?

When I began, I found that bright colors ran through my inspiration board. There were choppy haircuts and lots of people smiling. I seemed to be attracted to coats and found that I was pretty particular in the cut of shirts that I liked. This inspiration board helped me to focus my attention on what really suits me. In discovering what your style is, it will help you focus where you want to shop (Northern Reflection as opposed to American Eagle).


Evaluating Your Closet
Now that you have an idea of what you are looking for, head to your closet. Let's start really evaluating what you own. Tim Gunn of "Project Runway" and "How to Have Style" recommends that women have these 10 essential items in their closet:

1. A Little Black Dress (or LBD for short)
2. Trench Coat
3. Dress Pants
4. Classic Shirt
5. Jeans
6. Any Occasion Top
7. Skirt
8. Day Dress
9. Jacket
10. Sweatsuit Alternative
11. Bonus Item: One Indulgent Trendy Item

I would really suggest you hope on over here to read the descriptions of what each of these pieces are and Tim's suggestions on them.

Do you have these items?

Do a check of your wardrobe. Try things on! Evaluate how you look. Are there rips or tears? Ill fitting? Or do you just plain look fabulous? Take note. If it's not the best and you don't feel your best, put into a bag for donation. Don't be afraid to get rid of some pieces. If you don't feel your best or look your best, there is NO sense in hanging on to them. (Only donate clothing items that are not ripped or stained.)

During this time, take note of how many items you have a particular color or style. For example: Do you have 12 pairs of black pants? Well, we know who doesn't need to buy more black pants, don't we? Or maybe you are on the opposite spectrum. Perhaps you have every other color of pant under the sun except the black pants. Put that on your list of items to buy.

Why is this so important? Well, here's why. Shopping without a focus is just not good on your wallet. Especially right now in this economy, we want to be the best stewards of our money. Right? Well, there is no sense in buying another white blouse when you have three more at home...even if it is way on sale. That's not thrifty. Stay focused on the pieces that will build you a great wardrobe.

So here's what I'm doing this week:

• I'm listing Tim Gunn's top 11 pieces that a woman should have.
• I'm evaluating my wardrobe to see what pieces that I need.
• I'm trying things on and PURGING.
• I'll be packing away the darker, heavier winter duds in favor of lighter, brighter spring options.

How about you? Do you need to evaluate your look? How does your closet look? Could you bless someone with clothing pieces that just aren't "you" anymore?