the must-have top for $15

Killing some time at my local TJ Maxx, I came across a very Diane Von Furstenburg-esque top. Complete with accents of emerald green, black and silver, I purchased immediately.

You know when you buy something, and you can't wait for the right time/date/place to wear it? This was one of those moments. And because I love the casual drape/sheerness of this top, I paired it with some short, faux leather shorts (also from TJ Maxx, on sale for $10).

Look #1: Try with a leather jacket and shorts, and a simple pair of shoes. Top: Souplove (via TJ Maxx), $14.99. Coat: Zara (kids), $49. Shorts: TJ Maxx, $10.
And of course, paired with a maxi dress.

one pair, five ways: loose interpretation

Ta-da! The final look for the $2 Target pants. As promised, two bucks can go a looooong way.

Since most of the other outfits involved heels and layers, I decided to go real simple: over-sized sweater, scarf, and Tom-esque flats. Super easy to throw together. Comfortable. Provides ample room for consistent snacking/rapid movements.

It's items like these pants that remind me why I love thrift shopping. Ridiculously cheap prices aside, the thrill of finding a random shirt or pair of vintage shoes is empowering (and addicting).

Sweater: Calvin Klein (second hand) - thank you Tina! Scarf: Zara. Shoes: Lands End (second hand), $3.

Next up: pleather-like shorts for $10 and a $15 TJMaxx blouse

it's time to save

My all-time favorite accessory: the watch.

Never having owned one prior to college, I am now the proud owner of four very cheap watches. While a Rolex would be nice, these simple varieties have cost me a grand $50. And who's not to say a little variety isn't nice?

Oh, and don't worry. I don't usually wear them at the same time.

From left: Studio from Kohl's, NY&Co. (currently buy one get one 75% off). SERIOUSLY!

Note: Rose gold is great for an outfit that needs a splash of professionalism. I would stick to something more petite for an interview, but overall, these watches are great for almost any outfit.

And remember, a nice, quality watch is great to have, but if you're in a pinch, these watches still tell time just like any other.

one pair, five ways: work wear[able]

Do you have any items that just sit in your closet? I bought this faux suede blazer last fall, and have maybe worn it twice. It was only appropriate to unleash the magic of the $2 black pants onto my unworn and lonely blazer.

Note: Lately I have been creating work-related outfits, most likely a result from post-grad-unemployed-depression. Instead of actually going to work and making a contribution to society, I get to play dress-up and pretend that I am.

Blazer: F21, $24.5o. Tank: Old Navy. $14.50. Shoes: Max Studio.

Add in a pop of pea-green yellow to make things a tad more interesting. Detailed heels/boots with chunky jewelry determines the final "dressiness" of your entourage.

one pair, five ways: cardigan glam

You can never have too many cardigans/open sweaters.

While some women are shoe or purse-obsessed, I chose the most granny-like item to fantasize about. My collection ranges in color, cut, and length, yet one of my go-to's is this longer Mossimo sweater.

Is it just me, or does this sweater have a penguin-esque/coattails feel?

Oh well. A penguin inspired outfit it is! Sweater: Mossimo, $18.99. Tank: Ann Taylor (second hand), $2. Shoes: Elle for Kohl's.

While we're all still on a fashion high from NYFW, I can't help but think these pants could get... crazier. More colorful. I'm thinking leather, excessive jewelry, bright colors, and prints. Stay tuned for the final two looks.

one pair, five ways: partially professional

Since we're still talking black dress pants, I figured I should throw something together that was a little more appropriate for the work place. Yes, something more fitting than a sheer blouse that highlights my navy blue bra.

Many of you will recognize this blazer. Yes I wear it A LOT, and it probably belonged to an elementary school child. And while I am all about purchasing a nice blazer (ahh Helmut Lang, a girl can dream right?), I will not leave a $4 blazer on the rack. I will not.

Same pants, same shoes, but a short blazer with a solid t-shirt works great for most 9-5's. This look is all about comfort, and the cotton pants and t-shirt make my skin super happy. I mean, there is nothing worse than working all day in itchy/tight clothing, right? Blazer: vintage, $4. T-shirt: no tag, $1 (found in great thrift store on Lexington). Jewelry: American Eagle, Kohl's, F21.

If you're currently in the DMV, try Value Village in Hyattsville, MD. Great blazer selection, and you won't spend more than $8.

one pair, five ways: casual chic

At a massive thrift store like Value Village or Salvation Army, you are almost guaranteed to come across two things: black dress pants and windbreakers. Assuming you are not interested in the latter, black dress pants are certainly an item worth looking for.

Why? Because black dress pants don't need to be brand spanking new to look good. In fact, black dress pants can cost you less than $5 if you are willing to hunt. Spend your money on fitted blazers or eye-popping jewelry, items that are more distinguishable when it comes to quality.

After discovering the perfect pair of $2 pants at Salvation Army, I thought it would be fun to see how many different ways I could wear such a simple item.

Top: Zara. Pants: Mossimo (second hand), $2. Shoes: Zara. Clutch: Gap, $15.

This ensemble is an easy change after a long day at work. Simply throw a feminine looking top into your bag, and transform yourself from working lady to gal on the go. I'm a big fan of drapey, sheer tops that a) lets me eat whatever food I want and b) distracts people from noticing my $2 pants.

Check back the next few days for five different ways to wear one very, very cheap pair of pants.

a splash of color for $5

Just when it seemed Fall was upon us, this 80 degree weather had me scrambling for something that wasn't brown, black, taupe, tan, or navy (my typical fall color scheme).

When it comes to colors, especially bright ones, I tend to play it safe. Maybe a little too safe. Lately, all this talk about "color blocking" got me thinking... maybe I too could mix colors that neighbor one another on the color wheel! As long as you aren't doing the entire rainbow, I think a little mixy mix action is kinda cool. Eye catching in the least.
Skirt: vintage, $3. Tank: vintage, $2. Shoes: Nine West, $35.

Thoughts on the red/pink combo? Too Valentine's Day-esque? Regardless, $5 is definitely worth the injection of color lacking in my wardrobe.

kids shoes with style

There is one HUGE advantage to having tiny Asian feet. Kids shoes!

Buying shoes intended for middle schoolers (at a 1/4 of the price) almost compensates for never finding normal socks or being able to borrow friends designer shoes. While I have no desire to sport lights ups, cartoon characters, or velcro, an occasional pair strikes my fancy.

I found these girl's shoes at Gap Kids, for less than $20. Not bad right? After having this pair for three plus years, I am pretty impressed with the level of quality and comfort. And for $20, well, I can't complain.

Stay tuned for more little people shoes... I already have my sights set on two pairs of kid's Gap cow suede boots. Super cute stuff, check it out!

Note: for a women's size 6 1/2 or 7, you can usually fit into a kid's 5/6.

leopard strikes back

Real fur, a known social status marker, is now being replicated with cotton and polyester versions that a) are much cheaper and b) are designed to still look "expensive." While I would never buy the real deal, animal print pieces are taking over my closet. From classic leopard to a more edgy snakeskin, each item adds a bit of flava flav to any night out on the town (probably not a suitable choice for a conservative work environment).

For you my dear reader, I've styled three super simple outfits. You'll need: blazer, tank, skinny jeans, heels. Depending on your desire to unleash your inner animal, throw on a printed scarf, top, or dress. Ta-da!

As an accessory. Scarf: Zara, $39.90

If you're not ready for the full-out body suit (don't worry, neither am I), start with something small like a scarf or belt. This classic and sometimes boring black-white-blazer-jeans look can be spiced up with some snow leopard. Blazer: vintage, $1.99. Tank: H&M, $4.99. Jeans: Mixit, $2. Heels: Zara, $89.90

As a top. Shirt: Jones New York (second hand), $13.

Leopard print comes in a variety of hues, and I love this particular dark brown and mustard yellow combo. Under a blazer, an animal print top still isn't overdoing it, but is a nice substitute for a solid print shirt.

As your main ensemble. Dress: Old Navy, $49.50

If you want to go all out, try a dress or large tunic. Looking for something more casual? Just swap the heels with a tan/brown/black boot that brings out the colors in your print. I promise, there is an animal print piece out there for every woman.

a combat boot that won't kill your budget

Military style is one of those trends that just keeps on coming back. Long-skirted coats, a plethora of army green, and endless pairs of boots have repetitively found there way into women's closets. After all, what is sexier than a woman who can rock badass military wear?

While you may want to avoid the lace-up boots and camo in one outfit, military style looks great combined with more feminine pieces that use lace, silk, ruffles or more neutral tones.

I settled on these faux leather lace-ups from F21. The patterned tie neck offsets the shoes, with a pair of navy shorts to pull it all together. Blouse: vintage (second hand), $1.50. Shorts: F21, $13.80. Boots: F21, $24.80.

Try more masculine boots with a loose tunic or summer dress. Add a cardigan and a belt, and you've got a simple outfit that is military chic. Vest: F21, $14.80. Dress: Zara, $69.

For ultimate comfort, throw on an oversized sweater with combat boots. Brown and black here isn't my favorite combination, but I'd love to see the dark brown mixed with mustard yellow or a nude tunic. Sweater: Moda International (second hand), $2. Bag: Deena and Ozzy, $15 (sale).

benetton vs. blazer

I'll admit, my style is far from the equestrian/Ralph Lauren type. However, my favorite leather boots occasionally channel my inner prep.

The nice thing about this look is it requires just a few basics: blazer, sweater, plaid or patterned shorts, and boots. While known preppy brands like J Crew, Ralph Lauren, Brooks Brothers, etc. provide all these items at a fairly reasonable price, I say go cheaper!
On the left, the tan Benetton sweater was actually discarded by a French exchange student my family hosted. I guess the massive hole on the sleeve turned him off, but a few stitches later it was good to go. Sweater: United Colors of Benetton. Shorts: F21, $13.50. Boots: Coach, $285.

On the right, I found this blazer (part of a 2 piece suit) at Salvation Army for $10. While it's not my favorite color, an unworn suit for $10 can NOT be passed up.



I found this bracelet in my town's "gem shop". The two golden clumps are actually sheep heads, and it just seemed too weird/cool to pass up.

Remember, mix and match your wardrobe! Boots, especially real leather, are worth the money. Save on the basic items that honestly don't look much different than the real deal.

[maxi]mizing the last of summer

It seemed like just yesterday I was complaining about DC heatpocalypse and worshiping AC. Today, I woke up to 45 degree weather with a closet full of tanks, sundresses, and shorts.

Luckily, I had been to the Ithaca "Bon Ton" (the somewhat lacking Macy's equivalent) earlier in the week. It must have been my good luck truck, as I stumbled across a rack of $9.99 dresses. Final Sale. Sold!
Thus, the $9.99 maxi dress saved the day, prolonging the days of summer for just a bit more. Note: I will try not to over-obsess about all things maxi-related. However, I would highly recommend that every woman should find one in her possession. Aside from being comfortable, maxis are pretty versatile and can be worn in 45 degree weather (no one will ever know you have three pairs of tights on). Additional bonus: minimized shaving responsibilities. Sweater: F21, $24.80. Dress: n/a, $9.99. Boots: Zara, $45

navy... the new black?

Ok, even I get sick of black. So after digging through endless piles of black leggings, jeans, tanks, skirts etc., I decided it was time to pick a new favorite color. One thing led to the next, and within twenty minutes I acquired a lovely pair of wide-legged trousers, an a-line wool skirt (ah, button detail!), and a navy/pea green top at Salvation Army. Everything below for less than $23.

I struggled with my first "collection" as my closet is currently limited (working from my parent's house). The shoes and hat were old finds from a few years ago, however the navy brought everything together as I was working with a fairly neutral palette. Hat: Midwest, $1.99. Striped top: SML Sport Ltd, 50 cents. Skirt: Anne Klein II (first bridge-line in American fashion, began in 1983), 50 cents. Pants: Thalian, $1.50. Blouse: Josephine Chaus, $1. Black spool heels: vintage, $9.95. Tan heels: Bakers, $6.95.

Three words: tie neck blouse. I love how feminine and flirty these tops are, and how easily they transition from day time to evening wear. For the typical working woman, a button-up shirt can only be worn so many times (and really, who wants to attend happy hour in a button-up?). The tie neck style however adds a little something something to a blazer, suit, whatever. Especially cute when tied in a loose, draped bow.

Suggestion: Try your local thrift store first for this tie neck style, as this look was popular in the 1930's. Name brands also carry this style with prices ranging from $30-$100 plus.

Stay tuned for more looks from the "Navy Collection."

earthquakes and hurricanes and floods oh my!

Post-earthquake/Irene, I am expecting some sort of natural disaster that is water-related. In preparation for heavy rainfall and gusting winds, I invested in this basic trench that will protect me from all terrible things. Note: this cobalt umbrella is my mother's. Would appreciate any suggestions for a device that both shields rain and looks reasonably attractive. Note II: and no, I do not think it is reasonable to spend more than $15 on an umbrella.

Trench: Express (second hand), $26. Shoes: Bakers (second hand), $6.95

second hand steal: button-down bliss

This shirt wooed me instantly. Double pockets. 100% silk. Best part? Salvation Army charged a whole $2 for this Eddie Bauer top.

Designers have been pumping out henleys and button-downs taking the working woman look a sexier step up. After buying a more pricey henley from Loft, I compensated with these $2 jeans and a $2 taupe shoulder purse. All in all, not bad for $6.

As you can see, I still haven't gotten over the ankle booties. Shirt: Eddie Bauer (second hand), $2. Jeans: Mixit (second hand), $2. Purse: Classic Collection, $2.

deal of the day: $45 Franco Sarto boots

I have been on a relentless hunt for the perfect pair of ankle booties. Dragging my bootless feet from store to store, I encountered the same problems. Too much heel. Not enough heel. Too many studs. Extreme discomfort.

These little beauties do the trick. 1) practicality: the thick wedge heel makes them super easy to wear. Like run to catch a bus type of easy. 2) versatility: black suede goes with practically anything, and I plan on wearing these fall/winter/spring. Did I mention these were $45? Seriously, sweet deal.

For a more casual look, I paired booties with leggings and a loose blouse. We all know fall means leggings, jeggings 24/7, and these boots would spice up my typical stretch pants and loose blouse look. Casey (dog) felt the need to include herself. Blouse: Tiffany Alana, $16.99. Leggings: F21, $10.

I died a little inside when I came across this knee-length sweater. Does Sonia Rykiel ring a bell? Old Navy's version was only $49.50, which sadly wouldn't even buy me a sleeve on the Parisian's famous striped pieces. French-looking navy/white stripes beware, this multicolored look is on its way. Sweater: Old Navy, $49.50.

I've always been wary when it comes to wearing skirts and boots. This skirt however passes the arm-length test, and I would wear this out out without feeling like I was advertising for a nighttime job. Shirt: BDG (second hand), $1. Skirt: Gap (second hand), $5.

The last ankle bootie look (my favorite). For me, shorts with any loose tunic would transition day to evening for reasonably warm fall weather. A few degrees cooler, throw in some tights and a heavy scarf and voila! Scarf: Pins and Needles, $10. Tunic: Lauren Ralph Lauren (second hand), $2. Shorts: Zara, $40.