Love Shopping Hate Shopping

So, I have always loved to shop.
I do prefer boutique shopping to mall shopping, (crowds, time, etc). And then there is online shopping. Online shopping can be great. Convenient, quick, sometimes cheaper, and of course plentiful. And what I mean by plentiful is that there is a lot out there, (which can be confusing and/or overwhelming for some).

So,...if you hate shopping and you are one of those who knows they need to do it, but they want it to take up no time at all, LETS JUST GET IT DONE WITH LITTLE OR NO PAIN!!
For those of you like myself...I will get to US later. :)

Here are some tips for those who hate to shop:

For the Mall, try to make a list before you go. What do you need? Try to get an idea as to what stores will carry the things that you need. So for example, if you need shoes, try a Macy's or Nordstrom. They usually have a large selection opposed to going to more of a boutique store like Nine West or Aldo's. DSW would be ever better as they typically have the largest selection.

Need a great pair of jeans? Now this is a tough one. For those who want one of those "trendy" options and you are in the mall, chances are you will have to go to a large dept store which tends to carry a number of fashionable brands, (ie. seven, true religion). Other stores like the Gap or Express will have less to choose from but may have more traditional styles.

If you have a little bit of time, try searching for the product on the web. You could for example type in, "white button down shirts" or "sweaters." Now you will have a list of stores that carry some options. Write them down and figure out which mall as the appropriate store.
And who knows, maybe you will end up buying it on the web. So what if you have to return it?? If you go to the mall you have to spend money on gas right? And lets factor in your time which I am sure is worth something. And what happens if you need a little snack while you are perusing through the mall? How about being able to get up and going to your fridge? Worth something eh?

Tips for those who prefer boutique shopping, (one stop shopping, less crowds, etc).
You can always follow my idea of first searching for the product on the web, (highlighted in green).
I prefer boutique shopping to mall shopping. Parking is typically easier, less crowds, and I can be more focused on what I want. In, out, done. And with boutiques, you can ask the sales clerk to help you find exactly what you are looking for. And typically if they do not have it, they will get it for you. I found a great pair of shoes recently and they did not have my size. No worries, they ordered it for me! Now that is service. Some places will even mail it to your home with no extra charge.

With Boutiques, you can drop in on your way home for work, whatever. Keep a list somewhere, (in your PDA, wallet, etc) of which stores you prefer. This way, when you need something you can grab and go. :)

INTERNET SHOPPING...

So for many, this can just be way to overwhelming.
Tip 1: type in what you are looking for, try to be as specific as possible.
Tip 2: Keep a running list of stores that you prefer. Try organizing them in your favorites center. If you are not sure how to do this, go to: http://websearch.about.com/od/internetresearch/a/favorites.htm
Now you can organize by fashion item, (favorite sweater stores, shoe stores, etc).
Tip 3: Don't forget to look up coupons. So for example if you are buying from Victoria's Secret, type in "Victoria's Secret Coupons." Most online stores offer some kind of deal for purchasing on line. GO CRAZY!!

Now I know that the whole size thing can be an issue. Most people need to try on before they buy. First find out what the return policy is, (www.zappos.com) has free returns. If you are unsure give them a call. Maybe they will offer it up for free.
And maybe if you definitely need to try on anything before you buy and you do not want to deal with the hassle of returning, try just buying items that you should not have to return. Accessories like scarves, jewlery, belts, hats, etc. Typically sweaters, cardigans, button downs, etc are okay as well.

And remember, I am here for you. I am one of those who loves to shop...I can help!
HAPPY SHOPPING!!!!

Stuck on Accessories

I am stuck on Accessories. I can just hear some of my friends...ugh, I just don't know what jewerly to wear...it is too girly, ...annoying ...the necklace gets tangled, earings just too femine, bracelets clanging on the table.

So maybe it is about finding the right accessories, (back to my scarf discussion...).

Pearl...Pearls can be an easy fashionable accessory. And of course they do not have to be real! Please remember that you don't have to go nuts and do the pearl earnings, pearl necklace and pearl bracelet all at once. (later we will discuss the importance of placement).

These I found online at http://www.kohls.com/ for only $10.80!!!!

Here are some fun pieces...

Again Kohls for $12.00

Forever 21 is a fantastic place to find inexpensive fun accessories. It takes two seconds!! Just go in, fish around, hey so you maybe waste a little and buy some pieces that you wear only once, but we are talking $4-$5 for costume jewelry!

This bangle is only $4.80.

Another piece for $3.80

Earings...okay, for those of you with kids. Take your earings off before you see them. How about keep a small satchel in your purse. When you see your kids, quickly slip off whatever pieces you have on, (that you are worried will get tugged and pulled), walllaaa.

$2.80 at Forever 21

Now these are HOT!! and only $3.80

ohhh I love a bargain, 3 for $3.80!

DSW SHOE SALE!!

JUST IN CASE YOU MISSED THIS...

DSW Rewards members get triple points on all purchases, every time you shop, now through October 26, in stores and online. Please allow 2-3 weeks for your points to be posted to your Points History balance. If you return merchandise purchased during this promotion, bonus points will be deducted. Customer Service: 1.866.DSW.SHOES or DSWRewards@dsw.com.Free Standard Shipping on Orders of $25 or more through November 3, 2008, with promotion code RSHOSHP. Valid only for logged-in DSW Rewards® members on dsw.com orders shipped inside the U.S., first ship-to address only. Gift cards, gift wrap, shipping and taxes do not count toward the $25 qualification. Offer will be applied in the form of a credit toward the shipping and handling fee. Offer subject to credit approval. Not valid for cash or cash equivalent or toward previous purchases. Terms and conditions are subject to change at the discretion of DSW.

If you do not have a DSW membership, you should get one. No obligation! Every time you shop you receive points. I feel like I get a $10 off coupon in the mail once a month!!
If you don't want them, give them to me!!!!

Update My Wardrobe...But on a Budget!

So you want to update your wardrobe, but on a budget. For those of you who know me, I am all about accessories. Just like men with their ties, a scarf, standout piece of jewelry, fabulous shoes, or even a belt can completely change an outfit.

I would first suggest going through your closet and look at what you already have for accessories. Lay them out and put them in a place that allows you to quickly scan. Who has time in the morning to rumage through pieces all clumped together? I actually started hanging my scarves on a foam lined hanger, (actually has multiple rungs, Marshalls for $6.99).

Scarves come in all shapes and sizes:

I found this one at http://www.target.com/ for $12.99 and it comes in tons of colors. Wrap it around your neck, drape it over your shoulder. It is a quick way to update/change up your (brown suit).

Another great look is the wrap. Not only does it keep you warm but it is great to wear over a standard one color shirt.

This one goes for $29.99 and there is free shipping on purchases over $50. Who does not speand at least $50 when they go to Target!! Just combine your order with some toilet paper.

This is also a great scarf. Only $14.99!!

Ladies, the next wrap is my favorite. I have been buying these like crazy. They are just awesome. You can wear them open or drape them over your shoulders. They are comfortable and easy to put on and take off.

And by the way, for those of you who have never bought clothes or accessories from Target, you should start. They are typically good quality and inexpensive. BUDGET, BUDGET.

Feeling the need to spend more? Try http://www.nordstrom.com/. They have some awesome stuff as well.

This one goes for $58.

For those of you who know me, I love big chunk jewelry. Big makes a statement, plus it can really add some umf to your look!

I found this necklace at http://www.ethnicjewelryonline.com/ for only $6.86.

This is a cool necklace from http://www.bananarepublic.com/

This would look amazing with a suit. It sells for $59.

This is a cool necklace from www.anntaylor.com for $59. This would focus the eyes straight to your neck opposed to the pair of pants that you already wore twice this week. :)

If you find any good accessories, please share!! Especially if it is a great deal.

My Favorite Fall Pieces...

So, it is getting cold outside which means...its time to update the wardrobe...with a budget of course. So I typically like to focus on two things: getting some standout pieces and two, updating any staple pieces, (standard black or grey pants, standard shirts, etc).

For those who know me..I am super budget conscious...but I do splurge for the right pieces of fashion.

Here is an example of what I have purchased so far:

I found these awesome boots on zappos.com for only $99, (free s&h). They are Naughty Monkey style D-Ring. How did I know what size to get? I got my normal elephant size...and guess what they have free shipping and returns. So if it didn't fit...I can return it free of charge. I love it!! For the moms on the go...they are super comfy.

P.S. I needed a pair that would look great with long pants or a skirt. The slight slouch in the boot is perfect for those with super skinny legs or for those with a little extra. :) They distract the eye.

Next I went to one of my fav online stores for some basics. I love Victoria's Secret b/c they hover over a lot of different trends/styles and the prices are comfortable. Plus you can find a TON of coupon codes online, (type in coupons for Victoria's Secret). I was able to save an additional $30 plus get a free triple lipgloss set, (a value of $21 so they say).

Last year I purchased these great wide leg pants for VS. I loved them so much I went back for more!

They ride a bit below your hips, come in tall, (for those with a little extra height), and flare at the bottom. They were $69.50. you can't tell me that you wouldn't go out and spend more somewhere else!

Next, I went for some basic cords but with a fun twist. They have a "sailor" look to them. Just to spice things up a bit. Who needs the same old cords.

They were on sale for $29.50!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So my next purchase was more of an indulgence. Now that I work mostly from home, I needed a great pair of comfy lounge wear, (acceptable enough to run some errands in as well).

I am most excited about this set, yes I said set. For $68 you get:

1. a Camisole

2. a Wrap

3. Lounge Pants

For those of you who know me well...I adore my wraps. So look for my wrap worn with a great pair of jeans etc. More to follow on my wrap obsession... :)

I have also complimented my fall wardrobe with some Marshall's purchases...but I have yet to take pics of them. Who doesn't love Marshalls?

If any of you have some great fall wardrobe tips, please let me know. I think there is still room in my budget to "explore."