Happy Easter!

I grew up in a small town in South Carolina. No one does Easter outfits better than southern women, and I can testify to that. We like color, we like print, and we like high heels. Add pearls and curls and you've got yourself a dressed up southern woman. For the first time, I was unable to travel back to SC for Easter with my family and since I don't have a church home here in Nashville, I had to make my Easter outfit a little less obnoxious than I would have liked. Here is my casual version of the Southern Easter outfit:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aqua peplum top: $17 from Knowstyle in Augusta, GA

Free People white skinny jeans: $29 on sale compared to $88 at Belk in Franklin, TN

Nine West coral heels: $39.99 compared to $89 at T.J. Maxx

Coral necklace: $5 from Plato's Closet/Whitebridge Pike in Nashville, TN

Multi-colored chevron purse: $8 from Plato's Closet/Cool Springs in Franklin, TN

My usual David Yurman and Charles Garnier bracelets and vintage rings



Photos courtesy of ARuelas Photography



Easter Weekend

It's Easter weekend and I consider this holiday the most fashionable of them all. Of course that's not what it's about but it doesn't hurt to test the waters with some fashion-forward pieces anyway, right?

 

How great is this lace dress? I found this beauty hidden away at a local Plato's Closet. When I saw the $8 price tag, I knew it was mine, whether it fit or not. It doesn't have a label in it and it's kind of itchy but I thought for a photoshoot, why not! It is a skater-style dress, all lace, with sheer sleeves and a pleated skirt. The hem is purposefully uneven and I love the chunky black fabric that peeps from underneath and makes it flare out.

 

 

This rhinestone collar necklace was on sale at T.J. Maxx for $16. It still had the price tag on it for $59! I love it because I can wear it to dress up a t-shirt or with a fancy dress like this.

 

 

I'm not used to wearing anything backless but I have to say that I'm not hating it!



I featured these shoes in my Look Expensive, Don't Pay the Price post and I am still madly in love. Nine West heels for $16? Yes, please!




Photos courtesy of ARuelas Photography
 

Coconut Oil, The Miracle Worker

If you know me, even the slightest little bit, you know of my obsession with coconut oil. I use it for everything from medicine, to deep conditioning treatments, to lotion, to cooking oil, to an energy and immune booster, to soap. If you tell me you have any kind of ailment, I'm going to ask you first and foremost if you tried coconut oil as a remedy. It is literally that amazing, and it changed my life. Make sure you use only unrefined coconut oil. Any other kind has been pressed and all the nutrients that make it so amazing are no longer in it. You need those nutrients! C.O. usually comes in a jar and is in a solid state at room temperature. Don't let that fool you though, once you scoop some out into your hand, it starts to melt. It is also a high heat resistant oil and considered the healthiest cooking oil; it makes incredibly juicy baked chicken!

 

 

 

Here are just a few other ways you can use coconut oil:

• Wrinkle reducer and preventer
• Leave-in treatment for dry hair
• For any kind of mouth sores, including strep throat!
• Add to coffee, tea, smoothies, and other blended beverages for flavor, an energy boost, or for a healthy immune system
• To kill plaque in the mouth
• To greatly diminish cellulite (supposed to be the best way!)
• It is said that it improves metabolism
• Moisturizer
• Makeup remover
• Sunscreen
• Stretch mark cream
• For almost any type of skin irritation
• Itch relief
• In place of GooGone
• Sore muscle reliever
• Replacement for butter
• For migraines
• Controlling cravings

Those are just a few of the incredible things coconut oil can do. There are lists way longer than mine that go into detail. Check out http://healthimpactnews.com/2011/80-uses-for-coconut-oil/!

Have you ever wondered how Victoria's Secret models always look so flawless. Sure they have trainers to workout efficiently and the best hair and makeup artists to always make them look fabulous, but in an interview with Cosmo magazine, Miranda Kerr contributed her luscious locks and healthy body to none other than my beloved coconut oil. She swears by it. She's not the only one though. Many other models recently came out C.O.'s closet to reveal that they too swear by this stuff.

 

So is it all just hype? As a 5'1" average girl who sees the inside of a gym maybe once a week, eats dark chocolate compulsively because she tells herself it's healthy, and isn't being paid for any of this testimony...yes it is. I used to have a really weak immune system and would get the weirdest illnesses what seemed like constantly. But I can honestly say that my body is healthier and I feel better all around since I started incorporating it into my daily routine. Give it a test run to see for yourself. What have you got to lose?

 

 

For everyone's questions regarding how to use it as a deep treatment, here's the best way:

Put it on your completely dry hair about 30 minutes before getting in the shower. I personally coat my hair from roots to ends and massage it into my scalp. Wash and condition as normal, but you may need to shampoo twice depending on your hair. After you blowdry and style, add a tiny amount from mid-shaft to the ends for extra frizz control and shine. It gets rid of dandruff and some claim that it makes your hair grow faster, in addition to deep conditioning!

***Never put coconut oil on wet hair. Remember, oil and water don't mix and your hair will end up greasy and it will take forever to wash out!***

Unbelievable Hair Products

As a 'Thriftinista,' I apply my budgeting and saving skills toward every purchase, not just clothing. I'm always searching for the best beauty products for the least amount of money and through this search I have found my absolute, cannot-live-without products. I constantly have people asking me about my hair and makeup and what products I use. You'll be surprised to find out what they actually are.

First and foremost, my favorite product in the entire world, is unrefined coconut oil. I use it for everything from cooking to skincare to deep conditioner to medicine. And yes, it is that amazing and it absolutely does work. (I'll dedicate a whole post tomorrow on all the things it's good for and how to use it.) I first realized its miracle properties when I was desperate for anything that would make my over-processed blonde hair feel less like hay in a field and more like luscious, soft hair that moved on its own. I use coconut oil as a deep conditioner before I shower and as a leave-in after I style my hair to make it shiny and super soft. It's about $6 at a grocery store for a massive container.

If I could only have one product the rest of my life, I would choose this miracle in a jar.

My second go-to product is actually 2 products together. After realizing how harsh man-made shampoo is on my tender hair, I chose to go the natural route. I picked up some Jason Restorative Biotin Pure Natural shampoo and conditioner and haven't looked back since. I found this in the organic care section of Publix for $8 each. All plant-based, no sulfates or other bad chemicals, and smells amazing. This stuff, in conjunction with the coconut oil, has made my hair healthier than ever, even though it is highlighted nearly platinum blonde. I have celebrity hair stylists comment on my hair all the time and I have this habit of always telling people my secrets. So if Carrie Underwood starts using coconut oil and telling people, I'm taking the credit...just sayin'

My last great hair essential is not actually a product but a tool. I'm including this because it has changed the way I style my hair for the better. I have naturally curly hair. Not cute little ringlets though. I'm talking part wavy, part curly, cowlicks all over, frizzy if you touch it, frizzy if you don't, one drop of water and it's a helmet of fuzz, crazy curly hair. It surprises hair stylists and they are usually at a loss for words when trying to brush it and blow dry at the same time. I found a tool that blowdries while styling so that I don't even have to straighten my hair afterwards. It makes it so shiny and bouncy that people actually accuse me of using hot rollers every day! Would you believe this miracle tool is only $17 and made by Conair, a brand most commonly found at Wal-Mart!? I couldn't believe it, best purchase this far. I can't say enough good things about this. I saw one that does the same thing at Sally's for $60. If you have unruly lion's mane hair that won't tame with blowdrying alone, try this. It's called the Conair Hot Air Brush.

And there you have it, the only things I use on my hair and all SO affordable and convenient; all of them can be found at your local stores! I used to be a product junkie, spending money on things that I would use once or twice then throw out because it didn't work. I don't have to worry anymore as long as I have these items and I have never felt better about my hair...or saved so much money on hair products!

 

Have you tried any of these things? Do you like them as much as I do? Let me know!

 

 

Black on Black on Black

They say wearing black is slimming and although I can't disagree, I like wearing black for other reasons too. It's so versatile, so chic, so elegant yet edgy.

 

 

My best friend had to wear an all black outfit to a job shadow a few days ago. We went shopping for his outfit and I realized that although he and I both knew how to layer the blacks properly, not everyone else does. So how do you wear black on black on black and avoid looking like a waiter at a restaurant you ask? Here's how:

It's all about the mix of textures, the types of fabrics, and sometimes adding just the right accessories.

For example, wear slimming pants with a loose semi-sheer top and black cowboy boots. Or flowy pants with a fitted shirt tucked in and heels. Avoid wearing fabrics that are too similar. Always try to wear funky shoes. (Avoid flats or plain-jane maryjanes) Add a long necklace, a cool metal belt, large earrings.

 

I'm going to a concert tonight and chose to wear all black!

 

Applying these tips will immediately take you from waitress to fashion designer chic!

Life of a Stylist- Jos A Bank

I had the great honor of wardrobe styling for one of the most noted men's clothing stores, Jos. A Bank, a couple months ago for their spring promotions. Although the 15-16 hour days were long and my feet were swollen by the end of the 3 day shoot, it was so worth it. Such a professional company and the representatives and models were all so kind. I love getting to know the production companies I work with as we all work toward a common goal and applaud ourselves at the end. The free catered lunches and all-you-can-eat snacks aren't so bad either ;)

We shot commercials, editorials, and so much more in that small time frame but here are some of the commercials we did!

Hidden Treasure

So my friend and I went to a new Plato's Closet in Nashville today and despite it being a Sunday AND their grand opening, I managed to dig up a glorious find. While my arms were filled with adorable, inexpensive spring clothes, I spotted a gorgeous pair of knee-high boots hanging with the winter items. Upon closer inspection, I realized they weren't just cool boots, they were FRYE boots. Since they were too tall to see the inside label, the only indication of the brand was a tiny Frye symbol on the heel. If you don't specifically know the Frye symbol, it's very easy to mistake them for just another pair of boots. I had a 20% off stamp card that was full and didn't hesitate to buy them.

When I got home, I researched the style name inside the boot and found them to be special edition $525 boots. They are still sold in stores for $448.

 

I walked away paying a measly $28, y'all. This is the blog of a very happy Thriftinista!

Check out Plato's Closet at White Bridge Road in Nashville for some great selections and who knows, maybe you'll score a gem too!

XOXO

Look Expensive, Don't Pay the Price

I love following high end designers on social media sights like Instagram and seeing their new looks on the runway. Before I go shopping, I look at their pieces and find ones that I would like to wear. While I'm drooling over Marc Jacobs' amazing outfits on 7-foot-8 models, I am also scheming on how I can replicate those looks for 1/100 of the cost.

For example, I saw a pair of Alexander Wang booties on Poshmark that someone was selling for $175 and I fell in love. I'm talking, couldn't stop thinking about them, saw them in my dreams kind of love. Even though they retail for over $700, I knew I would never pay $175 for them. It's not always about the name on them, but more about the uniqueness of the items they create. I took them off my favorites list in hopes of forgetting about them. Several hours after I had taken them off, I decided to go to Plato's Closet for some inexpensive jewelry I was in desperate need of. While browsing, I happened to glance up at their displays and saw the glimpse of a black pair of heels with lacing up the front...just like the Alexander Wang booties. I immediately got an associate to get them down for me and tried them on. They were Nine West look-a-likes, my size, and with a 20% off coupon I had, they were only $16! Since then, I have noticed that Nine West actually makes a lot of 'inspired' shoes. I have actually seen several that mimic Alexander Wang's designs. Since they use leather and have well-made shoes, they are a great long-lasting, inexpensive alternative.

I am constantly on the hunt for a good deal and I am so in love with my leather lace-up booties! Here is a picture of the A.W. booties on the left, and my fabulous find on the right:

When you find a specific style that you like, it is easier to have a wardrobe that always looks classy and high-end. Please remember, you don't have to wear designer to look chic and put-together. Finding imitation pieces is key.

H&M has the best selection of affordable fashion-forward clothing. They're finally adding one in Nashville and I couldn't be more excited! You could also try Nine West, Aldo, Forever21 and eBay for affordable look-a-likes.

Wardrobe Staples for Spring

These are my key pieces for a spring wardrobe!

1) White cropped blazer- So many ways to wear it. I like to pair with boyfriend jeans and heels.

2) Bright cropped, fitted blazer (think hot pink, yellow, cobalt)- I usually don't follow trends but these are so cute. Pair with a floral summer dress and a clutch.

3) Linen jacket- Wear it on the beach at night or during those cool spring mornings.

5) Brown sandal heels

6) Circle/skater skirt- In a solid color with a top tucked in, just slightly high-waisted, and a belt.

7) Maxi skirt- Wear it with a white tee to make it casual-cool.

8) Sheer tie-neck blouse- Pair it with a blazer, shorts, and wedges.

9) Boyfriend jeans- I just take straight leg jeans in one size up and roll them to just above the ankle. If they taper in towards the leg, it's even better.

10) Dressy romper (shorts or pants)- I like the lightweight long sleeved ones with shorts. Red or coral makes these super chic. Just be aware of the fit, they can make you look frumpy if you aren't careful.

11) Denim vest- The best accessory to any outfit to take it from 0 to edgy in 2.5 seconds.

12) Chambray shirt- My personal favorite layering piece.

13) Plate belt- These are so cool! I love the metal, edgy look against a soft flowy dress.

14) Wide leg linen or cotton pants- So casual, so comfortable; wear with wedges.

15) Cutoff denim shorts- At the beach or at the mall, these are a must-have. High-waisted and studded are my favorite!

16) Floral top- You just can't go wrong with a little floral in your life.

17) White button up- I just wear the same one I wear in the winter, roll up the sleeves and you're good to go.

18) Peplum top- So flattering and ladylike. Add ankle crop skinnies and nude heels.

19) Colored heels- Wearing a neutral outfit with pops of bright color make you look like you know what you're doing, even if you don't.

20) Skinny belts- in lots of colors! Forever21 has great, inexpensive ones.

21) Light, loose sweater- Throw it on over almost anything. I love pairing one with a pleated skirt.

22) High-waisted red shorts- So pinup chic. Pair with a polka dot top for a retro feel.

23) Basic fitted tee's with a print. Think stripes & polka dots, perfect for layering (like the above-mentioned)

24) White skinny crop jeans. Ones that hit at the ankle or above, perfect with strappy heels for a night out or wedges for the daytime.

25) Colored purse with a cool shape- Another trend I just can't help but love. TJ Maxx has the absolute best selection right now.

26) Oversized watch- Doesn't have to be Michael Kors...just something cute!

27) Vintage or vintage-inspired band tee- Always a staple for me. I prefer something soft and lived-in.

28) Universal clutch- I just got my first clutch in a teal blue leather...gorgeous for any outfit.

29) Ankle boots with a low heel- Think almost western feel. Maybe suede? Wear with those cutoff shorts or boyfriend jeans.

30) A casual corset top- No, not lingerie. A corset actually meant for public eyes. Wear with a maxi skirt so you don't show too much skin.

31) High-low skirt- Still popular...still cute! I don't know about you but these plus heels make me feel invincible.

32) Pointed toe flats- Still stylish when you don't feel like wearing heels...which for me is 85% of the time.

33) Statement necklaces- Keep all other aspects of your wardrobe simple. Not boring, but don't take away from the fact that your necklace is supposed to be a statement.

34) Gold studs- Wear with almost any necklace, especially those statements.

36) Stacked bracelets- They look great with the oversized watch!

Shopping Rules

Have you ever gone shopping only to buy things you didn't actually need, or bought something that you wore once or twice then never wore again? Is your closet full of items but you consequently never have anything to wear? I've been there, plenty of times. Over the years though, I have learned how to control my shopping sprees and buy items I actually need. When you do this, shopping is a breeze and you end up with endless outfits.


Follow these guidelines for the perfect Thriftinista shopping experience:

1) Creating a wardrobe starts with clearing out items you no longer wear. Instead of donating all of them, see if you can resell anything so you can put whatever money you make towards your new wardrobe. I personally love Poshmark for reselling my gently used and/or new items. You'd be surprised at what will sell! Selling an old band t-shirt for $5 is still better than giving it away.

2) Next, make a list of anything you need. It's best to start off with the basic pieces. Basics are the essentials for every outfit. Don't have a simple black skirt? Add that to your list. Just like grocery shopping, using a list will help you decipher between what you need and what you want and will save you money in the end.

3) Once you have a clean slate and a list, it's time to prepare for the trip. Sign up for local consignment stores' newsletters so you know when they are having sales (which is usually pretty often.) I prefer higher-end consignment stores because you never know when you'll find a gorgeous turquoise Coach clutch for $28... ;) Shop at stores that are known for their low prices but nice items, like TJ Maxx. Try not to shop on a day that is going to be really busy because you might get flustered and end up purchasing something just to get out of the crowd.

4) If you can't find what you're looking for in stores, do some research online when you get home. If you do happen to find something you're in love with in a store, but it's too expensive, pull out your smartphone and check on eBay or other online stores right then and there! You can save so much money by doing this. I never go on a shopping trip without my phone or with it almost dead. That's a Thriftinista don't!

5) Always, always, ALWAYS keep the receipt and tags attached until you are 120% positive it is something you want to keep. My boyfriend calls me the queen of returns because I may like something in the store and decide it's not for me later on. It's okay to return! Just make sure of the store's return policy before you purchase.

6) Once you have all of your basic wardrobe pieces established, you can shop for more fun items. Just be sure to only purchase items that you will wear more than twice, so you're sure to get your money's worth.

7) Follow my rules and you'll be sure to have a wardrobe that has countless possibilities!

Other tips:

*A good pair of well-fitting, well-made jeans are better than 10 pairs of cheap ones that you only get a few uses out of. I found my favorite True Religion jeans at TJ Maxx for $60, compared to $180. $60 may sound like a lot, but they last for years and don't stretch out or fade. Some things really are worth the money.

*If you find great items at incredible discounts, you can actually resell them and sometimes make a profit! I usually don't buy an item unless I can resell it for more than I paid for it. This creates a healthier shopping scenario and encourages recycling.