Frugal Extravagance

I started thrifting about a year ago when I just happened to be walking in the neighborhood of my job. I passed by a store that always had things on the sidewalk that I thought would look perfect in my dream house. Very vintage chairs and sets of plates that were just very unique and cute. I happened to go in one day simply to look at the furniture but was quickly intrigued by the clothes and accessories too.

This past weekend I did some research on thrift stores in my area since I cant frequent that other place for often anymore. I found Beacon’s Closet and at the same time I found heaven on earth, just at a cheaper price.

I found this jacket on a rack that I wasn't even supposed to touch. But it was an obvious choice. That day I walked out of the house with a leopard blouse and a cropped faux fur vest. Put those together and you have this jacket. I had to purchase it. Plus it was Free People for only $35 which is usually upwards of $200!

I tried these leopard platform shoes on by Carlos Santana. They were really cute and obviously I was having a moment with animal print. Ultimately, I had to say enough and decided against them. I also had a pair of Steve Madden black and red patent pumps for $10 (on the left).

I left the store with two items. The jacket and these pebble leather Calvin Klein pumps for $20 were one. They looked like the were wore once. I decided to go with something that is unlike anything I have in my closet and these will be great when the weather warms up.

Happy Birthday, Not So Happy Life

Sorry guys it’s been a while. I know you missed me. Relax. Calm down. I’ve been sleep deprived and I really haven’t had a clue as to what to do with myself. In one instance I’m happy but then again I’m just OK. For example, it was my birthday yesterday but I didn’t get any huge presents like a pair of diamond studs. Or I’m currently jobless but I’m returning to work next week. Or I have a boyfriend but I’m not talking to him right now. It’s like things are good but not 100%. Am I making sense? I guess this is an example of wanting too much and not being appreciative of what you have since others don’t have as much.

Anyway, let me update you on a few things. I started a new book in my book group. Yes, we can officially call it a group because Donelle has joined. 3’s a crowd but in a good way this time. We’re reading Shanghai Girls by Lisa Lee if you want to follow. And on the side I’m reading Assata: An Autobiography by Assata Shakur. Both of these books include characters that are so far from the life I live but I like those types of novels because it’s like a form of traveling. You get to leave your world and join another. Get me?

Also, as I said, it was my birthday yesterday. Go Virgos! I celebrated with a group of friends over the weekend with dinner at the Cheesecake Factory and then we partied at Club Venus. Oh, in between the two we partied in the middle of the street. Don't be surprised. Very typical for us.

But yesterday, my actual day, I went on a hot date with D. A simple walk over the bridge and then some Retail Therapy in Soho.I got some shoes guys from Mr. Madden (my other boyfriend). Now these shoes were originally $130. I got them for, drum roll please, $25! Do I even need to continue this post? It’s like that’s a showstopper. I feel like I stole something. That’s less that 25% of the original price. Then I went to Sephora for my free gift since I’m member. That sang happy birthday to me and gave me a free makeup set. More shopping, more shopping, blah, blah, blah then finally food. We went to Apartment 138 on Smith Street for a delishious (Flava Flav Dictionary) burger and an episode of Bad Girls Club: Miami.

What more can a girl ask for?

Change Clothes and Save

As the leaves fall and the winds chill, most of us go and fold away our skimpy summer attire and unpack our sweaters and corduroys. However, I don’t really know about the cords because my thighs usually rub and it causes a weird sound, but whatever floats your boat. Anyway, don’t put the summer clothes away just yet. Revamping your clothing not only creates a new trend for yourself, but it keeps some extra money in your pocket. We can all use extra money (says me, the expert, oh jobless one).

It’s very simple to turn a summer strapless dress that’s usually worn with sandals into a fall strapless dress worn with a cardigan, tights and boots. The key is layering items that can add depth to an outfit. Blazers, cardys, scarves and tights are just a couple of pieces you should have on hand to make an outfit new again. And I can’t just say it’s simple. I have to go into my closet and show you how easy it is by using my own clothes.
So stay tuned.


In this look I kept the top which can easily transition.
Kimono-sleeve top, Conway
Olive belted shorts, H&M
Wedges, Miss Sixty
Skinny jeans, H&M
Olive green platform, Nine West


If you want, you can even keep the tank and add a cardigan or blazer instead of changing to the black tee.
Peach tank, F21
Floral tier skirt, Strawberry’s
White wedges, Steve Madden
Black v-neck tee, Cherokee
Black opaque tights, Merona
Suede scrunch boots, Steve Madden


I actually wore this fall look in the spring right before it was started to get warm.
Paisley dress, H&M
Pink patent belt, Uniqlo
Pink patent wedge, Steve Madden
Blazer, H&M
Opaque tights, Merona
Distressed riding boots, Steve Madden

You can throw a black cami under this if you’re conscience about your bra showing. The top is really a tunic that covers the shorts. When turning it into a fall outfit it may seem too dark but the bright colors in the shirt lighten it up.
Sheer kimono tunic, H&M
Yellow shorts, H&M
Purple jellies, Gap
Black skinny pants, H&M
Leather driving mocs, Steve Madden

I was scared at first too. Wearing shorts and boots at the same time seemed weird but looks good. Try it out.
Tube top, H&M
Distressed boyfriend shorts, H&M
Studded gladiators, H&M
Perforated cardigan, Victoria’s Secret
Distressed riding boots, Steve Madden


Ok I get. I shop at H&M way to much. They should endorse me. I hope this helps you save a few bucks. Now I’m not saying don’t shop. I tried to make that vow to myself before and I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy. My dad can’t even do it and he’s a 53 year old an. He always is a sale at Macy’s. But when you do shop, make smart purchases.

Follow theses simple rules:
· Don’t go shopping without taking a look in your closet. You may find something similar to what you were going to purchase.
· Don’t but the same item more than once. If you have something similar, use that.
· Don’t buy things that can be found at a cheaper price. Quit being a label whore!
· Take risks when dressing.