Thursday, February 17, 2011

Project Fashionista: Jacci's thoughts!

I was pretty excited and flattered when Dana thought of me to help her with this project.  I like to think I am a pretty good bargain finder and though my wardrobe isn't all Forever 21, mostly all of it was purchased on sale to some extent.

Whenever I need something new, the first place I look is Dillard's in their BCBG/Max Azria section.  There are always huge markdowns, and almost always a 75% off rack.  I have gotten some of my favorite dresses there, at absolute ridiculous prices.  BCBG is great quality, and although they do have a lot of trendier pieces {I don't believe in spending too much on trends} they almost always have the perfect black dress, pants, cardigans and other staples. 

For the working girl, I love New York & Company because of their amazing coupons.  If you sign up for their email list, they send you half off your entire purchase coupons a couple times a month.  Just a few days ago I received one for "Spend $100, save $50"...you CAN NOT BEAT THAT!  They have everything from the trendiest styles to the most basic you'll-wear-it-for-years basics.

Sweet  and classic cardigan, about $21. Comes in 5 colors.

Usually, I'm not a fan, but Old Navy has really stepped up their game for their 2011 Spring line. In a casual work setting, such as a country club :),  this Jersey blazer would look awesome with these NY&C chinos or a pair of dark denim skinny jeans. All you need is a little white tank to go underneath, and a fun necklace to go with. 


With these, this, and black flats.


Pair with some wedges and a jean jacket.


Wear with khaki's, and a funky but not crazy necklace.

The tops and dress are all from Old Navy, each very affordable, and all they need is a little sprucing up with some accessories and can be worn again and again.

I must say that I feel if you're always dressed in head-to-toe bargain brands, it's going to show.  Every girl deserves to treat herself to a few nice pieces no matter what your budget.  This in no way means pay the full price for them , though!  Sale racks are your best friend.  Pairing good quality jeans or pants with a less expensive top is a good way to go and never pay a lot for trendy jewelry.  Inexpensive jewelry is one of the best ways to change up an outfit.  You could wear jeans, a white t-shirt and flats every day of your life but as long as your jewelry is different, no one would ever notice.  Wear your hair up in a pony tail to show off some statement earrings, roll up your jacket sleeves to reveal a stack of fun bracelets, or even wear black on black with a fabulous belt.  

Of course, there are always deals to be found at places like Marshalls, TJMaxx, and Ross.  If you don't mind digging, you are sure to come up with some great finds.  End of season sales and outlet malls are also musts when building a wardrobe that won't break the bank.  Even Anthropologie has an amazing sale room.  Even if you don't find something, it's always worth a look - you never know what you may find.

Most of all, fashion is constantly evolving and meant to be fun.  There is no reason to not be able to afford great clothes with stores like Forever 21, Target, and even Old Navy.  My biggest advice to anyone looking to update an old wardrobe is to first, look at what you already have.  More than likely, even if it's 10 years old, you still have great staple pieces.  Build off those at first, and as you have more money to spend, replace the old with the new.  Be yourself, not all trends work for everyone.  Before you leave the house take a good look in the mirror and smile at yourself.  Make sure you love your outfit and feel comfortable in it.  Confidence in what you're wearing can have a tremendous effect on your self esteem through out the day.  If you feel like a frump, you're probably going to act like one too.  If you feel cute and sassy, your personality is going to match!  Always makes for a better work day, I think. ;)

Hope this helps you Dawnua!  Best of luck as you shop!

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