My Top Favorite Tips!

Hello my ladies! 

After reviewing my past posts and some of the latest fashion magazines, I have compiled my top ten favorite tips on keeping you trendy and saving a buck or two.

10. Be a rewards member of your favorite stores/ websites. I know it sucks when you get 25 emails a day, but that ONE day you are heading to the mall to shop, it will be a HUGE savings to download coupons, check out their social media for sales news, for having their rewards card, or filling out their surveys. I am also OBSESSED with the free app RetailMeNot! If you haven't checked this out, you must! You walk in the mall and it will tell you every sale/promo that is going on. You just show the cashier the coupon and BAM you have saved $$$! 

9. If your wallet is having a hard time keeping up with latest trends, focus on smaller ways to look fresh through your accessories and hairstyles. Using Pinterest, for example, could give you DIY ideas for making your own jewelry or how to make that awesome top bun! You all know how obsessed I am with scarves and great earrings! 

8. On the trendy topic, don't feel like you need to take part in EVERY trend that is popular. I am actually horrified by some of the things that are popular right now, especially if they are styles reoccurring from the 80's or 90's. Don't get me wrong: I love the My So-Called Life Style, but no one needs shoulder pads or a body suit! Stay true to your own style. Maybe incorporate that gorgeous purple handbag that you love with your every day tee shirt and jeans. Adding a statement bag takes some of the pressure off your wardrobe. 

7. Use your statement piece to create your whole look! This could be anything from the bag above to a great pair of boots, a sexy LBD, even a jewel toned eye shadow. My statement pieces make my whole outfit feel likes it comes together. For example, my favorite statement piece would be my Nine West suede boots. I LOVE THEM! They make me feel sexy whenever I get to wear them! 

6. Your makeup can really add a theme to your look for the day. Whether it is for work, a special occasion, or even if you just need to FEEL better! Most days, I start getting ready by doing my makeup and hair before I even decide what I am going to wear. It might dictate my whole look if I decide to wear a dark lipstick or just a light, shimmery eye shadow. Even if you aren't good at makeup, adding gloss and mascara can really make you look refreshed. 

5. Shop for those DEALS! Sometimes shopping can be a marathon. Whether you are looking for that one special piece, or just adding to your next season's wardrobe, patience is a virtue! Check out the clearance sections of your favorite stores, discount stores like TJ Maxx, or even the Goodwill. I found a great pair of name brand jean capris for my FL vacation for $2.50!!! 

 

4. I love to layer. There are so many good reasons to do so. Don't forget to accent your figure, you don't want to look frumpy-- but layering can save you money by allowing you to incorporate different seasons together, for hiding that one troubled spot, STAYING WARM, adding a creative style, adding a pop of color! SO MANY REASONS!!!! For example, my favorite thing to do right now is layer a summer dress under a great cardigan with bright tights and my BOOTS. :) Add a scarf or a statement necklace and you are bound to feel amazing when you walk out the door. 

3. Know the inventory of your closet! Once a season you want to go through your clothes, shoes, and accessories to not only get rid of the things YOU NEVER WEAR (I am sorry honey, but those 6 inch heels will NEVER be comfortable!) but to also remind yourself of what you do have, and what you love! I just reorganized my jewelery box and realized how many great pairs of earrings I have. You can display things differently to not only add character to a room, but remind you everyday to add that new scarf or your favorite necklace. This will keep you in check before you go shopping: "No I don't need a 6th PAIR OF BLACK DRESS PANTS! But this grey pair might be a nice addition." 

2. Re-purpose, reuse, recycle! If the bottom of your favorite jeans are torn up, turn them into your favorite pair of capris! Dig out that sewing machine or needle and thread to add some detail or color to that old blazer. You have a bracelet that you love and never wear? Wrap it around your pony tail or bun!

1.  Don't forget your friends! Having an exchange party is not only a great excuse to get together, it is a really inexpensive way to add or take away from your closet! Invite a few of your girlfriends over to your house and ask them to bring any unwanted accessories, handbags, or clothes. Have some great snacks and drinks while you all shop through each others stuff! New-To-You is just as good as brand new, and your wallet will thank you!!! 

Thanks for tuning in ladies! Come back for SHANNON REACTS TO BAD FASHION!!!! 

 

Who needs a little retail therapy?

Did you miss me? :) 

Sorry I have been M.I.A. for so long COYC followers! I am back now, and with a beautiful co-host! Shannon is going to bring a fresh perspective on accessories, plus size style tips, and many rants and raves about this season's styles. Shannon has been my best friend and my favorite FASHIONISTA for the last 22 years. 

As many of you know who follow me on Facebook and Instagram, I attempted to do 365 of fashion without success. The original premise of the project was to look different for 365 days. I was not allowed to wear the exact same outfit with the same hair and accessories. The hardest part was documenting my outfits on a daily basis. I got really sick of taking all those SELFIES. Who has time for that? The worst days were when I was sick. There were photos of my blanket, my pajamas, of my messy hair. I did come up with some great ideas for new outfits though. I hope it was inspiring to my followers that there are so many things you can do with a small wardrobe. Here are some of my favorite outfits:

 These were my Christmas jammies. I love them! We have pajama day every Thanksgiving at my house with yummy food and endless hours of Christmas movies.

This is my FAVORITE dress! Totally reminds me of I Love Lucy! I paired it with black pumps, silver hoop earrings, and my mother's pearls. You can't see the red and black flowers around my pony tail.

This outfit is a pair of dress pants from The Limited that came with a suit, a tank from old navy, and a cotton jersey blazer from DOTS. I love the necklace too! It is hand-made bought at a little shop in Stowe, VT. I am also wearing a black belt and my favorite black pumps.

I look forward to future entries and hopefully even more followers to help us with our fashion quest! 

LOVE YOU! 

Clearance Shopping at its Best! 

Today I went to the Steeple Gate Mall in Concord, NH with my Mom to do some "window" shopping. Window shopping turned into "Oh My God SO MANY CLEARANCE SALES!" I kind of lost my mind, but luckily, I didn't lose my wallet.

In total, I bought 16 items that were originally priced $317.68. Because I bought things on sale, I spent $174.78, saving over 45%. Each item averaged $10.94 a piece. SO EXCITED! The great thing is that they are mostly all interchangeable with each other and with the clothes I already have. 

Tonight I am going to "clean out my closet" (hee hee hee) and put things in order, bringing back my Fall and Winter wardrobe. This should be interesting, but my new closet is not that big.... I wonder if I can turn my second bedroom into a closet... No, that would come with a divorce. This should make my 365 days of fashion so much easier! I will have SO MANY THINGS TO CHOOSE FROM!

Here is what I bought, where I bought it, and the cost:

Black flats  original price 24.98 sale price 9.99 bought @ The Shoe Dept

Blue flats (same info) 

Pink wrap sweater original price 18.00 sale price 5.00 bought @ JC Penney

Blue silk tee shirt original price 12.00 bought @ JC Penney

Off white crochet sweater original price 18.00 sale price 5.00 bought @ JC Penney

Khaki & White party dress original price 35.00 sale price 10.00 bought @ JC Penney

Peach Silk tank original price 12.00 bought at JC Penney

Brown trouser dress pants original price 17.00 bought @ JC Penney

Grey trouser dress pants(same info) 

Pink bangle bracelets original price 16.95 sale price 4.99 bought @ New York & Co

Turquoise off-the-shoulder tee shirt original price 26.95 sale price 12.88 bought @ NY & Co

Purple V Neck Sweater original price 19.94 sale price 15.00 bought @ Old Navy

Pink embroidered skirt original price 29.94 sale price 14.99 bought @ Old Navy

Camel colored cord skirt original price 24.94 bought @ Old Navy

Olive drab tank original price 10.00 sale price 8.00 bought @ Old Navy

Charcoal grey tank (same info) 

Happy shopping! :) 

  

Shopping smart

I AM BACK! 

First of all, thanks to those of you who support my fashion challenge.

Here are the details: I am taking a photo of my outfit every day for 365 days. I am not allowed to look exactly the same twice. Whether I am wearing my hair differently, or wearing different accessories. It is so hard.... and I am only on day 50! 

My biggest thing is shopping for cheap layering pieces and accessories. Buying different colored camisoles and scarves really helps me be creative. I spent a little more on the basics. I bought black dress pants, a white jacket. The cool thing is blazers are really popular right now so it makes it easier to dress for work and look professional without looking too stuffy or losing my sense of style. 

It is really interesting looking through the photos and seeing all the different outfits with what I have in my closet. 

Anyone can do this.  You just have to remember my instructions on how to organize your closet before you go shopping. Keep notes of what you might need in your wardrobe. Do you need a splash of color? Do you have a lack of dresses? Putting your clothes in like sections (pants together, shirts, etc) makes it much easier to get dressed in the morning. I am not as crazy as some people by color coordinating my closet, but if it works for you, more power to you! 

Invite one of your (honest) girlfriends over and make a girls' night out of it. FASHION SHOW TIME! Does this color work with these pants? Should I get rid of my prom dress? LOL Everyone is friends with someone like me who lives for this! 

Summer is great for shopping to add to your wardrobe. You have the 80% the sweaters from the winter, tanks and dresses that are really cheap, and the future items for fall coming in. Feel free to load up on pieces that you can layer in the fall. Tights, scarves, and blazers will be your friends when it gets cooler. 

I am so glad to be back! 

Let me know what fashion dilemma do you have so I can help!

 

People:Style Watch's 10 trends for Spring

Happy February Ladies:

As you all know, I am in LOVE with People:StyleWatch!!! It always has the best trends and tips for all budgets. They did not miss a beat with this month's Spring fashion alert.

Here is their list of 10 Must-Haves for this coming season:

1. Color blocking. I am sure you have seen this in every store window. Don't be scared; I know you are all having flash backs to yourself dancing to a Paula Abdul song at a school dance. If you are afraid, start with something small, like your jewelry or a clutch. StyleWatch recommends keeping to neutrals and solid colors.

2. Day clutches. A larger take on the evening must-have. Choose something neutral, or brighten up your outfit with a sunny yellow or pink. Pair it with a casual outfit like your favorite skinny jeans and a tee or dress up your work suit.

3. Ankle-strap heels. This is a timeless look that keeps coming back. Whether they are thick or thin straps, it is a sexy addition to any outfit. Stylewatch says to try matching colors for a monochromatic look.

4. Mint green. This color works for most people and in a ton of styles. Pair it with a tan or white for a great, fresh look. Again, if you are having a hard time diving into the deep end, choose great mint accessories and work into it slowly.

5. Leather. My friend Sara does this best. She can pair a leather skirt with a floral top and look uber-feminine. COYC TIP: Start with a leather jacket in nude over a great floral dress or even a great pair of leather flats with your favorite jeans could work.

6. Blue & green jewelry. Stylewatch says to pair it with a white button-down for a casual look or a great white dress for a weekend style.




7. Floral. Pair with solids like black to emphasize the great patterns. Think big, bold colors and styles. COYC TIP: mix your styles. Go a little boho or punk glam while adding a floral print. For example, boyfriend jeans, great sandals, and a flowy floral top would look great!

8. Peplums. Step back in time with this trend. Stylewatch recommends pairing this look with a pair of skinny jeans or a tailored top.



9. Metallic heels. These are the greatest wow-factor to any outfit. Whether you going to work, out to lunch, or out on the town, you can make a statement with this trend. COYC TIP: rock a pair of great metallic heels with your favorite leggings and a sweater dress while it is still chilly outside.

10. Neon. Again, don't give up on me. You know you love it! Stylewatch says to pair it with black or white if you are feeling edgy or keep it RIGHT NOW with tan or beige.

Cleaning Out Your Closet recommends mixing some of these trends. (Not all of them of course!) For example: a color blocked day clutch, or a mint green peplum top. Try metallic heels with an ankle strap.

Have fun ladies!! Don't forget to post your pics of your favorite Spring trends!

Making 2012 about YOU!

Happy New Year folks!

I was planning on talking about what is going to be hot this Spring, but I realized in New England, I have a good 2 months before this will be a concern!

I wanted to remind all of my readers to remember their own needs this new year. Instead of making a New Year's resolution that I couldn't stick to, I decided to make small goals each month. Obviously, things will change throughout the month that causes those goals to either also change or be impossible, but it is a much better start then trying to accomplish one large goal (like to not eat sweets-- yeah, right.)

This is my challenge to each of you: make goals that ARE obtainable and stick to them. For example, if work is crazy, set your goals to your home life. Example: "I am going to reorganize my wardrobe and get rid of all the junk." (Or) "I am going to read an entire book this month" (Or) "I am going to be tech free after 8 pm and spend the extra time with my honey." Get what I am sayin'??? If it is home that you can't seem to get your arms around then set goals to take yourself out of that situation. "I am going to go to the gym 3 times this week" (or) "I am going to plan a girls' night out this weekend." Go for a walk, hang out at your favorite book store, just take an hour for yourself and breathe!

Remember people, you can't be great for your family or your job without being great TO YOURSELF! Nothing is impossible. Take a class, join a club, GO TO WEIGHT WATCHERS! Whatever it takes to get you to that goal.

One thing I think could help is start a small support group. Pick 2 or 3 people who are positive reinforcements for you and help each other. Set goals and share them. Vent when you are struggling, give each other advice, keep each other on track. This is YOUR group--- no one else.

Now that I hope I have inspired you, my last piece of advice is this: Just laugh... breathe and laugh...

People:Style watch's 10 Ways to Shop Smart

It is almost time for those crazy lines, 12 hours of extreme shopping, and looking for the last of that toy that everyone needs to have!

Thanks to People:Style watch, November 2011 Issue, I have 12 great tips to help you get through!!!!

1. Buy cheap chic brands
2. Take advantage of coupons
3. Find local deals around your neighborhood
4. Sign up for flash sales
5. Try a rental--- need a fancy dress? Check out the online companies that will rent a dress to you!
6. Repair your favorite pieces (get those awesome boots resoled!)
7. Compare prices
8. Check $$$ savings blogs (like mine lol)
9. Become a member
10. Experiment with Do-It-Yourself!
11. Join rewards programs (Sephora gives you a free gift for your birthday)
12. Sign up for sampling programs

These work for shopping for your Winter wardrobe, Holiday outfit, or for your gifts for the Holidays.

COYC TIP: This season is the season for glitz! Winter white, red, black with some sparkle-- wear silver eye shadow, get a sparkly gold tank to go under your blazer for work, wear red patten-leather heels... You get the idea! Go all out and wear a metallic mini dress with some knee high boots. Happy Holidays!