Hello and welcome to my recap of this week's fashion choices! :) My 5 Outfits in 5 Days challenge to myself went well, I think. I forced myself to pull some things out of my closet that I hadn't worn for quite some time, but I also stuck with a lot of weekly staples in my work wardrobe as well. Below is the rundown on each outfit; some items I've had so long I don't remember the brand or price. Next time, I hope to have more clear photos; we used my phone for the pictures, so they turned out a little fuzzy.
Monday ~ The Power Suit
Let's face it, Monday is always the hardest day to get out of bed when you have to start your work week. This week was no different, so I went with an outfit that was quick and didn't take too much thought. I picked out one of my black suits, paired it with a new polyester blouse and black heel booties. I accessorized with a purple and green cameo necklace.
Details:
Lane Bryant black slacks, size 18 (Salvation Army)
Lane Bryant black suit jacket, size 18 (Salvation Army)
Lane Bryant black & gold studded booties (Lane Bryant clearance $19.95)
Worthington striped blouse, size 2X (bought off friend $2.00)
Cameo necklace (custom-made for me by a friend at no cost)
Tuesday ~ Retro-Esque
The second day, I sank deep into the back of my closet and stumbled across this lovely polka dot jacket. I had a moment of "oh, I hope this still fits me!" apprehension, so I held my breath as I put it on...Voila! It fit like a dream! This belted scoopneck and cape style is so awesome on. It's comfortable, stylish and honestly, I felt most like a put-together woman on this day of the challenge. I paired the jacket with a purple polyester blouse and bright green scarf.
Details:
Just My Size purple blouse, size 2X (Goodwill)
Venezia polka dot jacket, size 18/20 (Goodwill)
Green Scarf (Flea Market)
Worthington dark blue trousers, size 18 (Goodwill)
Silver Bow Flats (gifted to me from mother)
Wednesday ~ A Pop of Color
The middle of the week found me searching for a different silhouette, so I went for a dress I had yet to go out of the house in. This is the wrap dress I featured in my Dresses on a Dime post. I chose a black knit cardigan and leopard print belt to go with it. I usually have a strong stance against mixing prints and mixing black and brown, but I decided to throw caution to the wind and go for it. I thought it turned out well. I topped the look off with footless tights, silver heart pendant necklace and beautiful teal pumps.
Details:
Merona black knit cardigan, size XL (Goodwill)
Print wrap dress, brand & size unknown (Salvation Army, no tag)
Lane Bryant leopard belt, size 14/16 (Lane Bryant clearance $4.95)
Hanes Just My Size footless tights, size 4 (Wal-Mart)
Spicy Brand teal pumps, size 10 (local thrift shop, $10)
Lia Sophia rhinestone heart necklace (hostess party gift)
Thursday ~ Greywash
After Wednesday's color clash, I decided to stick neutral for Thursday. However, in order to make the neutral ensemble pop, I accessorized with a silver charm necklace and waist belt for a little shine. This was the most comfortable outfit of the week. The jersey knit tee and sheer print jacket were light and breezy, perfect for the sunny weather we had. I paired with black slacks and the silver bow flats from Tuesday's look.
Details:
Plush Brand grey knit tee, size 2X (Goodwill)
Elementz Woman sheer jacket, size 2X (Salvation Army)
Briggs black slacks (gifted by mother who found at Shopko closeout sale)
Silver bow flats (gifted by mother)
Lia Sophia silver charm necklace
Black waist belt (thrift shop, can't remember which)
Friday ~ Jean Day
Fridays at work are casual jean days, so I always take advantage of that. A favorite pair of jeans can make any woman feel like a rockstar. I chose my favorite dark wash and paired them with a pinstripe suit jacket and skull scarf for a funky fresh feel. Underneath is a polyester print blouse and hot pink tank for layering. The skull scarf is one of my favorite wardrobe items. It's soft, fun and HUGE!
Details:
Lane Bryant dark wash jeans, size 18 (Goodwill)
Style & Co. Woman pinstriped jacket, size 18W (Salvation Army)
Hot Pink exercise tank (Wal-Mart, $1.00 January clearance rack)
Worthington print blouse, size 2X (Salvation Army)
Skull Scarf (Ross Dress for Less $8.99)
Black bow flats (Wal-Mart)
I hope you enjoyed this little personal challenge! I had fun, and I hope you did, too. If you have a favorite look or piece, let me know. I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Much love,
-Heather
Fashion Hijinks
The fashion and beauty shenanigans of a thrifty, plus size girl.
Friday, April 3, 2015
Monday, March 30, 2015
Outfit of the Night - Leopard Print Love
Greetings! Today, I bring to you a short, but fun Outfit of the Night (OOTN) post. Last Saturday night, my husband played his first ever "paying gig" for a local restaurant; we were stoked for him to have the opportunity to play his blues music for others to enjoy that night. We had a blast! However, this exciting show also gave me the opportunity to get a little dressy with a fun outfit. Here's how it looked:
I apologize for the ghost white face; my extremely light complexion does not mix with a flash! :)
What I loved about this outfit was that it was a fun print that allowed for a pop of color and made me feel super sexy and confident! The dress is a leopard print, knee-length piece from Old Navy (size 20) that I purchased off a friend for $2.00. This dress has a drawstring tie at the waist that you can adjust for different amounts of definition based on your shape. I thought that was a nice touch. The red blazer is the one from Dress Barn (size 18, bought at Goodwill) featured in a previous OOTD post. I accessorized the dress with a black cinch belt for added definition, and a purple and green cameo necklace that was made for me to wear on my wedding day last November.
I am also wearing black Hanes Just My Size footless tights from Wal-Mart. The boots are a little hard to see, but they are six-inch, black ankle boots with a two-inch platform. I LOVE these things! They are way more comfortable than they look, and my calves get a workout in the process.
Underneath the dress, I wore the Spanx Simplicity Open-Bust Body Suit from Lane Bryant in black(size 2x) to help smooth out all the lumps and bumps. I just recently purchased this shapewear because my trusty shapewear shorts (brand unknown because I've had them for at least 8 years) finally tore a hole in them from wearing them so much. I have to say, I do like the body suit. I probably wouldn't wear it all day, but it is comfortable enough for a night out. I put it on around 3pm and when I took it off when I got home around 1am, I had a couple of tender spots on my shoulders from the straps, but nothing too harsh like other shapewear I've tried. It is a bit pricy at $88, but if it lasts as long as my favorite shorts did, then I don't mind it. It helps me to feel more confident in my appearance, knowing I have that smoothing quality underneath a dress.
Overall, this is probably my favorite dress now. What do you think?
Much love,
-Heather
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Product Review: Younique Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lash Mascara
Hello and Good Day!
I bring to you today my first ever product review. I knew when creating this blog that someday, I would like to start doing makeup and clothing product reviews; I had no idea that it would be this early in my blogging career. But graciously, a friend of mine offered up a product that she loves and swears by, asking if I would be interested in trying it out and doing a product review. I, of course, jumped at the opportunity to try something new. I am always looking to shake up my makeup routine (when I find the time to put on makeup, that is).
A Younique Advertisement Photo |
**First, before we go any further, I would like to say that while this product review involves a friend of mine and a product for purchase by her, I in no way, shape or form will include any dishonest information regarding my opinion of the product. Any statement I make in this review about the product is my own opinion and overall feelings regarding its use. If you read my review and decide you would like to try this product out, I will leave her information and link to the product at the end.**
Younique Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lash Mascara
Product Background: The Younique brand is a line of makeup that provides a range of products for your eyes, lips and face. It also offers tools and kits that include application brushes, a pencil sharpener, powder puff and cute carrying cases. It is also a line that relies on the word-of-mouth and hosting parties in order to get their products to the customer (similar to products like Lia Sophia jewelry, Tupperware, Pampered Chef, etc,).
The product I am reviewing today is the 3D Fiber Lash Mascara that claims the following:
"Our simple, three-step process combines Transplanting Gel and Natural Fibers to help create the appearance of incredible thickness and volume to your existing lashes. Watch as your lashes transform into something you have only dreamed of! The 3D Fiber Lashes are water resistant but easily wash off with warm water and facial cleanser at the end of the day."
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The mascara involves a Transplanting Gel that has several different natural ingredients (water, beeswax, Brazilian palm glue, etc.) along with a few chemicals (iron Oxide, collagen, nylon, etc.). The 3D Fibers are only one ingredient: 100% actual green tea fibers. The website goes on to explain each ingredient and what it does to help the product perform up to their expectations.
Application: I have to admit, I was a little skeptical at first when I first opened the two tubes. At first glance, the transplanting gel looked like your average, everyday mascara. The wand is good sized, and the gel inside is black. And I mean BLACK. But nothing out of the ordinary for mascara. The fibers are what threw me off, though. When you pull the small, thin wand out of the tube, it has a brownish hue, and it honestly just looks like a bunch of short hairs clinging to it. The directions are to apply one healthy coat of transplanting gel and immediately following, apply the fibers. Then apply another coat of gel on top to seal the fibers in.
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Below is my natural lashes on the left; the right is the 3D fiber lashes. I apologize for the bad photo quality.
You have to really work the gel and fibers through your lashes to avoid a spidery effect, but it's totally worth the little extra time to apply. I learned to focus the fibers more so on the tips of the lashes rather than the roots; it kept the product from clumping. After one coat, my lashes became so long that I could feel them brushing up against the inside of my glasses! If I can get my lashes to curl properly, I know the effect will look even better.
The other thing I love about this product is the packaging. The hard case is appealing to the eye, durable and sleek, similar to a nice eyeglasses case; perfect for dropping in your purse and carrying with you.
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Overall, I like this product. I think it's an interesting concept and a nice alternative to false eyelashes. I will continue to use the fiber lashes and keep you posted on the build-ability of it.
If you would be interested in trying this product, I recommend checking out the following link for purchase: www.youniqueproducts.com/GraceHarden
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Below is my natural lashes on the left; the right is the 3D fiber lashes. I apologize for the bad photo quality.
The lengthening capability is unmatched from what I've experienced. My lashes are difficult to showcase this way because I have a heck of a time getting them to curl. Below is a view of the length. It's important to note that this is just ONE application of the product. This product, I believe, is definitely build-able by what the advertisement photos show. I will have to keep using it and see how several coats will work.
You have to really work the gel and fibers through your lashes to avoid a spidery effect, but it's totally worth the little extra time to apply. I learned to focus the fibers more so on the tips of the lashes rather than the roots; it kept the product from clumping. After one coat, my lashes became so long that I could feel them brushing up against the inside of my glasses! If I can get my lashes to curl properly, I know the effect will look even better.
The other thing I love about this product is the packaging. The hard case is appealing to the eye, durable and sleek, similar to a nice eyeglasses case; perfect for dropping in your purse and carrying with you.
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Overall, I like this product. I think it's an interesting concept and a nice alternative to false eyelashes. I will continue to use the fiber lashes and keep you posted on the build-ability of it.
If you would be interested in trying this product, I recommend checking out the following link for purchase: www.youniqueproducts.com/GraceHarden
Much Love,
-Heather
Saturday, January 10, 2015
Outfit of the Day - 1/10/15
Happy Saturday! Today, we had the privilege of witnessing a friend's wedding ceremony. It revolved around a beautiful couple in a just as lovely setting. It was a classy casual type of day, so I went with a dressed up jeans look.
This outfit was super easy to put together and fun to wear. I started with a pair of dark wash, Lane Bryant trouser jeans (featured in my first OOTD post). Then I chose my new black and white halter top that I found on a Deb Stores summer clothing clearance rack this winter. To add some color, I paired the top with a red blazer I found at Goodwill. And of course, I went with my trusty high-waisted belt for added definition.
Lane Bryant Trouser Jeans - FREE (gifted from my mom, who found them at Goodwill)
Grey Peeptoe Pumps Brand Unknown - $0.69 (Salvation Army 69 cent color day)
Deb Stores Halter Top - $7.49 (50% off already marked down clearance price)
Dress Barn 3/4 Sleeve Red Blazer - $3.99 (Goodwill)
I chose simple accessories since the print on the top is quite loud and already had gold sequins on the neckline. I wore my wedding ring set and a Lia Sophia rhinestone heart pendant necklace.
I haven't worn much makeup over the last couple of months, so I wanted to do a dramatic, full-coverage look today. I started with a clean, smooth base by applying Hardy Candy's Sheer Envy Perfecting Primer. I used Maybelline's FitMe! liquid foundation in 110; this stuff is amazing. Hands down my all-time favorite foundation. It's silky texture and dewy finish is wonderful for my dry skin. I wouldn't recommend it for oily skin, but it's great for dry to combination skin types.
I followed that up with Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind Eraser concealer for my dark circles underneath the eyes. I also used this concealer in my T-zone (forehead, down the nose, cupid's bow and chin). I applied CoverGirl's Professional Loose Mineral Powder in 105 and did some soft bronzing to sculpt out and add warmth to my pale skin with NYC's Color Wheel Mosaic Powder.
For the eyes, I had this idea for a sunset color palette after all of the beautiful sunsets we've been having here during the cold weather temps. I used NYX Walnut eyeshadow for the crease and two shades of purple from the Hardy Candy 2014 holiday gift sets I purchased after Christmas. I used a shimmery, bright purple for the lid and then followed with a matte, pale purple to blend the browns and purples together. I thought it made for a nice effect.
I lined my lid using NYX Black Bean jumbo pencil and went over the cream liner with a black eyeshadow from NYX's Sex Bomb Femme Fatale palette using a fine point pencil brush to set the liner. My mascara is the CoverGirl Lash Knockout Volumizing Mascara from Drew Barrymore's FLOWER product line. This is the first time I've used the mascara, and I have to say I'm not impressed. It came in a FLOWER holiday gift set that I bought this Christmas, so I thought I should give it a try. It gets the job done, but it doesn't have near the volumizing effect as my Colossal mascara that I am absolutely addicted to. Maybe if I built it up with more coats of mascara I would like it better. I'll keep trying it out.
The lipstick I wore faded off after a few hours of wear, but I chose Maybelline's Red Revival lipstick for the base red color and added a glossy finish with NYX Black Label lipstick in Rose.
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I hope you enjoyed my second OOTD post! See you soon!
Much love,
-Heather
Monday, January 5, 2015
Dresses on a Dime
Hello and Happy New Year, Readers! I hope you accomplish all that you desire to this new year.
I have battled and battled with new year's resolutions, and each year it is always the same "resolution to lose weight and look better." And each year, my resolution is squandered by self-doubt and low self-esteem.
I can't do the exercises.
I can't learn to eat healthier.
I love oreos too much.
I hate running.
So on and so forth.
So this year, I decided on a new resolution that has absolutely nothing to do with shaming myself and everything to do with loving myself for exactly the way I am at this point in time. Don't get me wrong, I would love to lose weight and look great in a smaller size. But right now, this is me - a size 18 beautiful woman with goals and dreams. My resolution this year is to acknowledge that truth and learn to accept and love my body for just the way it is. Once I accept and love? Then I can truly begin my transformation both emotionally and physically. (I am also writing my first full-length novel this year!)
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So today, I bring you a topic and a fashion trend that has PLAGUED me for years and years. I have been afraid of this style all of my life because I always felt like I was too big of a frame to wear it and flaunt it. Well, newsflash! Turns out I love them.
DRESSES!
I want to share with you some of the thrifted dresses I've found over the last year, and show you that you can look great for that special occasion without spending a fortune. You can find great quality items for a fraction of department store prices, and no one will ever know the difference. Check it out!
1. Chico's Size 3 Zebra Print Tank Dress - Goodwill ($4.99)
This dress is super comfortable and wearable for both special and casual occasions. It's lightweight and flirty fun with the flouncy skirt. I wear this to work with a black or solid colored cardigan and with the cropped, dark jean jacket below for weekend wear. Add a high-waisted belt and some jewelry and you're ready to go.
2. Striped Print Wrap Dress, Brand & Size Unknown (no tag) - Goodwill ($2.50 1/2 off colored tag)
I would normally pass up a wrap dress because they usually just feel awkward on my body. I feel like they sit uncomfortably on my figure, but I saw this color pattern and really liked it so I tried it on. I'm still getting used to the feel of the way it wraps, but I do think it looks nice and is suitable for drinks after work or a nice dinner with my husband on the weekend. And for two dollars, you just can't beat the price!
3. Igigi Size 18 Black & Gold Lace Sheath Dress - Goodwill ($4.99)
Can I just say - LOVE this dress! It was originally priced for the Goodwill Boutique at $12.99, but was moved to the regular Goodwill store after it didn't sell, and I scored it for five bucks. I think this dress has a simple, sexy vibe to it, and I feel confident just putting it on. It is a back lace sheath over gold metallic material, and I just love how it glimmers when you move. The classic draped neckline and over-sized sleeves make fore an elegant, yet modern look. Add a belt to cinch the waist, bangles on the wrists and a colorful pair of heels for a fun night on the town. I think this is also a classy enough look to work great for weddings and other similar special occasions as well.
4. Chico's Size 3 Flower Print Sheath Dress - Goodwill Boutique ($12.99)
I was really on the fence about this dress for two reasons: 1) it's shorter than I'm used to, coming up above the knee, and 2) it's a clingy dress with no give. I don't usually wear dresses much shorter than knee length because I am not a fan of my chubby knees. I also don't normally choose any type of clothing that is not a stretchy material. Even my structured blazers are some blend of polyester with some give. But I made an exception in the case because I personally think it looks amazing on. I feel like a woman wearing this. I know that probably sounds funny, seeing as the size of my chest clearly states I'm a woman, but I just feel like it shows off curves in the right places. The diagonal print of the front is placed perfectly and the length really makes me look a few inches taller. It's not as comfortable as my stretchy dresses, but it is definitely wearable. I wear this with a suit jacket for work and a colorful scarf for a night out to dinner. High-waisted belts are a must for me in a sheath style dress; it helps add a little definition for some shape.
(Say 'hello' to my three ferrets! Angus's white head in the first photo and Cooper & Malcolm in the second LOL.)
5. R&K Size 1X Reptilian Print Sheath Dress - JC Penney Liquidation Sale
($6.90: 90% Off Original Price)
This dress wasn't a thrift store find, but it was a dirt cheap bargain that I had to include. This is by far, my favorite dress to wear. It's funky, fun and full of bright color. I wore this to work with a cardigan or blazer, and then turned around and wore it on its own with accessories and a belt for my bachelorette party. This dress is my kind of funky with an edgy print and my two favorite colors, green and purple. I like to pair this number with my faux snakeskin platform booties and a couple of flashy wrist cuffs and bam! Instant vixen! ;)
So that's my secret for dresses on a dime. If you like this post, please like and share my Facebook page!
Much love,
-Heather
Labels:
bargain,
bold,
career,
Cheap,
curvy girl,
deal,
dresses,
Fashion,
formal wear,
goodwill,
plus size,
plus size clothing,
plus size dresses,
plus size fashion,
print,
professional,
shopping
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Black Friday Deals for the Curvy Girl
It's that time of year again, the exciting (or dreadful, however you see it) shopping day known as Black Friday...or Brown Thursday even, for those of you that are hardcore shoppers that will be going out at 6pm tonight for all of the deals being offered. I have looked through the ads this morning and have found the following deals that are worth note, in my opinion, for the curvier folks out there.
1. Lane Bryant - 50% Off Entire Store (11/27 - 11/30)
This sale is definitely one I will be capitalizing on. There are no limits and not one item in their entire stock that's regular price! The best thing about this sale though, is that it is both in stores and online AND it is for the entire holiday weekend. That means I can avoid the Thursday/Friday rush of people and go on Saturday or Sunday instead. I will be using this sale to stock up on my intimates. The majority of my bras come from LB because they are the best support I have found for my shape. I am eyeing this leopard print plunge at the moment:
2. Dress Barn - All Dresses $50 or less; All "Cashmerely" Sweaters $22.99; Jewelry/Accessories B3G1 (11/26 - 11/30)
I personally think this is one of the not-so-awesome sales overall, but I do think I will check the store out just for the dresses. If I can get a well-made, pretty dress for less than 50 bucks, I'd consider it. Their sale is also all holiday weekend and it's both in-store and online. It's worth note that the shapewear line is in the B3G1 free deal, so if you're in need of shaper briefs, shorts or cami's, definitely check out their wares.
3. Old Navy - 50% Off Entire Store (Thanksgiving & Black Friday Only)
4. Macy's - Variety of Sales Throughout Store (11/27 - 11/29)
1. Lane Bryant - 50% Off Entire Store (11/27 - 11/30)
This sale is definitely one I will be capitalizing on. There are no limits and not one item in their entire stock that's regular price! The best thing about this sale though, is that it is both in stores and online AND it is for the entire holiday weekend. That means I can avoid the Thursday/Friday rush of people and go on Saturday or Sunday instead. I will be using this sale to stock up on my intimates. The majority of my bras come from LB because they are the best support I have found for my shape. I am eyeing this leopard print plunge at the moment:
Smooth Boost Plunge w/Lace $22.00 (reg. $44.00) |
2. Dress Barn - All Dresses $50 or less; All "Cashmerely" Sweaters $22.99; Jewelry/Accessories B3G1 (11/26 - 11/30)
I personally think this is one of the not-so-awesome sales overall, but I do think I will check the store out just for the dresses. If I can get a well-made, pretty dress for less than 50 bucks, I'd consider it. Their sale is also all holiday weekend and it's both in-store and online. It's worth note that the shapewear line is in the B3G1 free deal, so if you're in need of shaper briefs, shorts or cami's, definitely check out their wares.
Zebra Print Dress $23.99 (reg. $54.00) |
3. Old Navy - 50% Off Entire Store (Thanksgiving & Black Friday Only)
This sale is in-store and online and is only for 11/27 & 11/28. If you shop online, they also have a 15% off entire purchase coupon code on top of the sale. I don't normally shop Old Navy, but I know they do carry a plus size range with some comfortable, cute pieces. I love these wine colored boots myself.
Faux Suede Ankle Boots $19.97 (reg. $39.94) |
4. Macy's - Variety of Sales Throughout Store (11/27 - 11/29)
60% Off Coats, 40-50% Off Plus Size Clothing, Rampage Boots $19.99
5. Payless Shoe Source - Variety of Sales Throughout Store (11/26 - 11/30)
Up to 50% Off Women's Boots, 2 for $25 Moccasins (11/27 & 11/28 Only), $16.99 York & Raven Boots, $9.99 Women's Slippers
6. Target - 40% Off Plus Size Clothing (11/27 - 11/29)
7. Ulta Beauty - Variety of Sales Throughout Store (11/27 - 11/29)
$14.99 for 72 pc. Ulta Irresistible Beauty Collection Makeup (reg. $24.99), $10 Bare Minerals 2-3 pc. Kits (reg. $44), $10 Urban Decay Big Fatty Mascara (reg. $20), $10 Smashbox On the Rocks Travel Makeup Brushes (limited edition)
8. Salvation Army - 20% Off Single Purchase Coupon (11/28 & 11/29)
Salvation Army of course doesn't have normal sales outside of the 69 Cent Color sale, but hey, a coupon is a coupon when you're going anyway! I'll be spending most of my shopping time at my two SA locations.
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Best of luck in your Black Friday adventures this year! Be Safe and Warm!
And a Happy Thanksgiving to all of my American friends out there. May you be surrounded by loving arms and warm memories.
Much Love,
-Heather
Labels:
black friday,
brown thursday,
dress barn,
Fashion,
Lane Bryant,
macy's,
old navy,
payless shoes,
plus size,
plus size clothing,
salvation army,
shopping,
target,
ulta beauty
Saturday, September 20, 2014
Stuck in a Fashion Rut?
Do you ever find yourself stuck in a rut? When it comes to fashion, and more specifically career fashion, I find it's not hard to. During the work week, you get into a daily routine, and it never fails that you never have enough time in the mornings to devote to really seeking out a rockin' outfit for work. You throw on "the usual" and call it a day.
For me, that "usual" is black slip on flats, black slacks, print polyester top and black suit jacket - every time. Some days I'll mix it up and swap out the black for brown - whoopie! Living life on the edge for sure! But I find that I just don't have the energy a lot of mornings to really get passionate about my attire.
For me, that "usual" is black slip on flats, black slacks, print polyester top and black suit jacket - every time. Some days I'll mix it up and swap out the black for brown - whoopie! Living life on the edge for sure! But I find that I just don't have the energy a lot of mornings to really get passionate about my attire.
And then, when I go shopping, I find myself gravitating toward the same styles and color that I wear day-in and day-out. I have found that if I don't buy "the usual" and start getting more comfortable with different looks, I'm more apt to put a different twist or variation on my daily suit. Now, when I hit up the thrift stores and clearance racks, I focus on two things: Color and Cut.
Color: First, I look for colors I don't normally gravitate toward. I try out yellows, pinks and other pastels instead of the deep, dark purples, reds and blues that blend in with a black suit. Let me tell you, yellow pops on black like you wouldn't believe! So anyway, I buy the colors I wouldn't normally buy.
Cut: I think this is the most important thing when you're shopping, no matter what you're shopping for. If the cut isn't right, it turns out being a crapshoot all around. Tailored blazers are the love of my life; I have about 10 different blazers/suit jackets that are black, but all have different cuts that give each their own personality. My problem is that you can only cut a blazer so many ways, and then you wind up buying the same cuts over and over again, hence the rut. To get out of this rut, I keep an eye out for the cuts I like in blazers, but rather in a shirt. Women's button ups are great for that suit structure and darting; Poncho style jackets are a nice, comfortable variation on the jacket as well.
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Now, to my reason for this post to begin with - I used these two key points today when out with my friend Kelly at the local Salvation Army. Like all of us, she has been stuck in the so-called rut. Kelly mainly gravitates toward neutral colors like black, grey and white. She also feels comfortable in looser clothing that sometimes can lack the shape she needs to show off her beautiful frame. So she asked me to head into the racks on my own, without her opinions on color and structure, and put a few outfits together. Then she would try them on as a set rather than separates to help her get an idea of how to pair different types of clothing.
I happily dove into the racks, knowing exactly what I wanted to see her in. I hit up the short-sleeved tops and found some great prints that had her neutral colors, but still had a little pop of color somewhere. I also pulled tops that were solids like a beautiful light olive green one I found. I then headed over to the blazers (you know, because I'm addicted to them!) to see if I could find anything I thought she might be open to trying.
I spaced out the different tops I had found on the blazer rack and got to digging. I chose to stick with her solid neutrals for the most part, but tried to find subtle uniqueness in them as well. For example, I pulled a black knit poncho jacket and put a red printed top underneath. I then pulled a turquoise colored suit jacket that matched a green print I found. And then I pulled a darted, lightly pinstriped black blazer and put the olive green top with it. Then I grabbed a couple colorful scarves and added those to what I had picked out.
I have to say, I am so proud of Kelly for her openness. I had so much fun watching her come out of the dressing room in the different combinations, and she was pleasantly surprised by the different looks, I think. She would up liking the pinstriped blazer (HALLELUJAH!), and ended up purchasing that as well as several of the printed tops and one scarf! I was SO happy to see her smile when she came out of the dressing room each time, and I was happy to see her liking what I had picked out for her.
In the end, I was able to pull just a tiny bit of her personality out of the rut she feels like she's in for work, and I hope she uses that in the future to push herself to gravitate toward colors and styles she wouldn't normally buy.
Everyone deserves something different from "The Usual."
Much Love,
~Heather
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