Post Holiday Sales

Big retailers are banking on big sales after the holidays. They want you to come in and spend your new gift cards or purchase the items that you didn't find under the tree. In order to make that purchase even more enticing, they are slashing prices left and right. Now is the time to buy that item you've been eyeing since thanksgiving. That is if you can find it. The biggest problem this time of year is that inventory is low. If you can find what you want, scoop it up and enjoy!

If you are looking for advice on where to focus your energy I would recommend looking at your favorite retailers and those that are usually just above your price range. If you want to add investment pieces to your wardrobe, now is a great time to buy. You can get high quality and top brands at a deep discount. Those items that usually cost more than your budget can afford are now on sale. Investment pieces also last from one season to the next. So you can maximize getting the most out of your purchase.  

This is also a great time to add pieces from your favorite brands. It's easier to justify that purchase for the item that you love but might not have immediate need for when it's a fraction of the full price tag. For me one of my favorites is always Anthropologie. They always have fun chic pieces that are both classic and trendy. The Post Holiday Sale at Anthropologie is currently featuring 40% off Sale. For a little inspiration check out this sample of their fantastic pieces!

Wrapped Fringe Sweater Skirt

Silk One-Shoulder Blouse

Bethesda Flannel Top

Galicia Eyelet Top

Ashbury One-Shoulder Dress

Vegan Suede Vest

Shine Bright This Holiday!

It’s almost here!!! And it will be over before we know it. Enjoy every second. Be present with your family and loved ones. It can be the most special time of the year.

If you're one of the lucky ones with shopping done and presents wrapped, you might be thinking ahead to next week. Believe it or not, New Years is just around the corner. And whether you are headed to the party of the year, perhaps a wedding, or maybe just bubbly at a friend’s house… it’s the best time for adding sparkle to your outfit! Metallic and sequins have been on trend this season and available in almost any style. If you haven't already jumped on this trend, now you have the perfect excuse!

Don't feel that these pieces are only for a dressed up evening out on the town. A sparkly sweater can be worn with a pair of boyfriend jeans and loafers for a casual evening in with friends. These pieces are more versatile that you might think!

If you need a little inspiration.... keep reading!

These dresses are for that stellar NYE party:

Missguided Plunge Wrap Front Dress

J.Crew Factory Metallic Dot Jacquard V-Neck Dress

These skirts can be paired with blouses or sweaters to be dressed up or down for dinner out or a house party.

Banana Republic Sequin Pleated Skirt

J. Crew Factory Metallic Leopard Jacquard Mini Skirt

Ann Taylor Sequin Tweed Skirt

This sweater has an attractive sparkle that will work with a skirt or jeans or anything in between.

Ann Taylor Sequin Sweater

If you still are unsure about investing in this type of piece... what about adding a little sparkle to your accessories?!! Just a little something special that can be easily added to any outfit to take it from simple or classic to glam!

Ann Taylor Chandelier Drop Earrings

Tory Burch Sequin Wristlet

Tory Burch Melody Metallic Flat

Embrace the sparkle of this season! It will make you feel just a little extra special and when you shine bright, it shows in more ways than you know!

Happy Holidays!!!!

Holiday Style on a Budget

We can all feel the pinch this season... suddenly we're bleeding cash all over the place. Hopefully generosity is getting the best of us and our money is going to amazing charities, the perfect gift for a loved one and a little extra to all those who help us throughout the year. But with all that spending it's hard to have any leftover for a dress to wear to the upcoming holiday party.

If you've been following my blog, you already know that I'm a big supporter of making the most of what you already have in your wardrobe. However, I also know that sometimes a special occasion requires us to purchase something new. Maybe you've already worn the dresses you have with the same group of people...multiple times. Maybe you're just tired of wearing the same old dress. Maybe your dresses don't fit the way they use to. Maybe instead of a whole outfit just a new pair of shoes will update that LBD!

Okay, not to worry! You absolutely do not have to spend a fortune to purchase a new item. There are a number of alternative options to shopping at nearest big brand retail shop (although there are great deals happening now). Depending on what kind of dress or outfit you need it might be worth your time to check out a discounted store such as TJ Maxx, an outlet store such as Saks Off 5th, or a consignment shop. If you are in need of something for a high end soiree, consider Rent the Runway, where you can rent a high end designer dress for a fraction of the price.

While I know that we would all rather shop online, I hate to tell you that the best deals are usually available in store. If you are trying to save a few extra dollars it's worth the effort to go to a store to find that item you need. Here is a great example:

This dress was purchased at TJ Maxx for under $60! The lace trend is hot right now and with a great cut, this style flatters multiple figures. The detail of the dress calls for minimal accessories. A great pair of earrings is really all you need to compliment the dress! 

Before you head out to shop, have a plan in mind! Know what you're looking for and be specific. You will have better luck finding what you want if you are only looking for a specific item. For example, if you are shopping for a sleeveless knee length black dress you will be focused and less likely to get frustrated or overwhelmed. Be as specific as possible about what you need. It will help you to eliminate all the noise you are likely to find in a larger store.

If you haven't already, start planning your outfits for the holidays. The more time you have to find what you need, the less stress you'll have and the more you'll enjoy the experience. If you find you need to add a little something to what you have, Happy Shopping!

 Photography credit for this post: Beth O'Brien Photography