CVS is turning me into a HOARDER!

I love CVS. I've had an ExtraCare card for as long as I can remember. And my name on it has been spelled "Mr. Remnee Bochard" for as long as I've had it. Tragic, I know. But I tolerate the butchering of my (quite elegant and very French) name because they hook a girl up with some serious discounts. Friends, if you do not have an ExtraCare card, get on it! Here are some examples:

A few weeks ago, I stopped in to pick up some shampoo. I'm a fan of Pantene's Color Preserve Volume shampoo and conditioner. I like to buy the large bottles when I see them on sale. On this particular day, they were discounted from $7.99 to $5.99. Unfortunately, the only thing left on the shelves was the conditioner. No problem- I stocked up on two large bottles and then got a rain check for the shampoo. In addition, my favorite toothpaste (Sensodyne) was on special. If I spent $10 on that brand of toothpaste, I would receive 5 "Extra Bucks." In the world of CVS, that's literally 5 free dollars. In addition, my facial moisturizer of choice- Skin Effects- was ALSO on special- if I spent $20 on that brand, I would receive an addition 5 "Extra Bucks." Oh, and I almost forgot- I had scanned my ExtraCare card when I first entered the store and got a coupon for 2 "Extra Bucks" to be used on anything in the store.

So, here's what I did- I first went to the register and bought the moisturizer and the toothpaste. Ding-ding! Two coupons for 5 Extra Bucks was handed right over. I then used those Bucks to pay for the already discounted conditioner. Fully stocked on conditioner, moisturizer and toothpaste, I went on my merry way with a rain check in my pocket to boot!

Some might have waited a while and gone back with the rain check after a week or so. Not me! The next day, I hit a different CVS that happened to have my shampoo in stock, so I got it at the discounted price without even using the rain check! Cha-ching!

Total saved from those two trips? $20! Yes, I spent about $40 in order to get that discount, but I purchased the products and brands that I prefer to use every day. I didn't compromise and get the discounted "generic" version, which often isn't nearly as good as the real thing and also not THAT much less expensive. And a $20 savings isn't too shabby- instead of spending around $60, I only spent about $40.

If you aren't impressed with that story, let me tell you another CVS shopping tale that might cause you to raise and eyebrow (or two). Tonight, on my way home from work, I swung into the original CVS where I got the rain check. The sale had passed and my Pantene was back to the normal $7.99/bottle price. I got a couple of bottles with the plan to use my rain check. I also swung by the hair dye section where I normally purchase a box of Revlon's dark brown hair dye. It's an inexpensive brand, but after experimenting with many different versions of "dark brown," it just so happened that one of the less expensive brands was the one I liked best. It normally sells for about $5/box. However, about once a year, CVS sells the dye in 2-box sets for only $5 each. We're talking a 50% discount right there. Finally, I needed some new lip color. L'Oreal is one of my every-day lip color favorites, and there happened to be a sale on the Endless lipstick line- 75% off. What is normally a $12 tube of color was suddenly less than $3!

Here's the breakdown from that trip:

Money saved due to rain check: $4
Money saved due to packaging discount- $10
Money saved due to make-up special- $17. 70

But it doesn't stop there! I had also received an email offering me a discount of $5 off a purchase of $25 or more. Even with my discounts listed above, I still qualified for the additional coupon which brought my total down from about $60 to $22.85! (Side note: the coolest part about the email coupon is that they scan the bar code straight off the screen on my smartphone- how cool is that?!?!Technology just blows my mind sometimes!)

To sum up, in the last two weeks, I have spent about $63 at CVS on products that I need and use every single day and I have also saved a total of $55 thanks to special discounts, coupons and smart shopping. Are you impressed? I hope so- I know I was!

The thing about the Extra Bucks is that it helps to know when you're going to get them. That way you can plan multiple transactions all at once. It's not always predictable, but there are often signs by the products that state, "Spend $X and get X Extra Bucks." You have to keep an eye out for them, and be prepared to possibly have to stock up on it to get the discount. Finally, in regards to the Extra Bucks, plan the order of your purchases and make multiple transactions in the most cost-effective order. The cashiers are always very accommodating when I ask them to please ring up certain items first. It may take an extra minute or two, but if it means saving about 50% every time I shop there, I'll put in the extra time. Wouldn't you?

Rate My Look- I'm a shoe addict

I went to the mall yesterday and bought another pair of shoes. I seriously have a problem. I can think of nothing I need less than a new pair of ridiculous shoes and yet there I was swiping my debit card for these beauties:

Originally $99, I ended up scoring these Steve Maddens for $34.39 after 2 hefty discounts and a $10-off coupon I got in the mail. In my defense, I tried VERY hard not to buy them. I even left them in the store and continued shopping around the mall. I got very lucky at H&M and bought a top I thought was selling for $12.95, except when it rang up, the price turned out to actually be only $4.95! I thought that would be enough to satisfy me for the day, but I had that feeling you get when you know you just have to have something. I debated and sweated it out for a while until finally just doing it. After all, at $34.39, they really were worth every penny. And since they are close-toe pumps, I'll actually be able to wear them into the cooler months as well. The only unfortunate thing about the purchase is that I felt an immediate need to wear them as soon as I bought them, which I did. Why is this unfortunate? Well, I'd also dropped about $45 on a pedicure earlier in the day and these shoes completely hid my fabulous new nail color! But I think the outfit worked despite my hidden toes (and I can wear sandals today):

I don't often have buyers remorse because I rarely buy something that I don't wear. I'm not afraid to wear the same outfit multiple times, so that also helps justify my purchases. The cost-per-wear argument is often a strong one. And I always go by the rule that if I can walk away from something without looking back, I know I didn't really love it or need it. If it pains me to walk away (as it did initially with these shoes), then I know I have to go back. And of course no matter how I feel about a dress or a  top or pair of shoes or earrings, it's important to live within my means, and sometimes that means walking away even though it nearly kills me. Fortunately, yesterday I didn't have to walk away. Judge me for my consumerism if you must, but in this economy, any stimulation we can offer will be a good thing. Look at it this way: I helped that sales lady earn a bit of commission, which she may turn around and spend which in turn will help someone else earn their paycheck and so on, so in the grand scheme of things, I'm just doing my part to turn this recession around. Really, I'm a humanitarian. In fierce purple shoes.  

Recessionista?

When the economy first took a downturn, a lot of people legitimately tried to cut back on luxuries. In fact, things were so bad that a lot of us had to take a long, hard look at what we actually considered to be a necessity. We started asking ourselves, "Do I really need this?" and "Is it really important for me to spend money on _______ (fill in the blank)?" When push came to shove, things like going to the movies, taking long weekends out of town, and of course purchasing the latest fashion trends all went by the wayside. And the media took note. Anyone who has picked up a fashion magazine or watched a style segment on TV in the last 12 months has seen or heard the term "recessionista." It started off as a good enough idea- someone who is able to be stylish on a severely limited budget. But what has it become? Little more than a joke, if you ask me and one that's not a little bit insulting.

The term "recessionista" has almost become a comical term, referring instead to celebrities and the wealthy elite who evoke the idea and feeling of being affected by the recession because it's the 'in' thing to do, especially if they have no real need to. They may, in some circumstances, go out of their way to purchase the "low-end" product to show how much of a budget-conscious effort they are putting forth. Or like Keira Knightly, they'll rent their designer shoes for the night of the awards show rather than purchase a pair to keep.

Keep an eye out for the term "recessionista" and you'll find a wide spectrum of hits- everything from legitimate advice, (like change the buttons on your winter coat to participate in the oh-so-trendy military look) to absolute absurdities like the advice found in Esquire's Fall 2009 Big Black Book. This "Style Manual for the Successful Man" offered suggestions to the consumer that included a $5200 Hermes peacoat, a $1300 Cavalli woold cardigan and a $16,000 Carbon-fiber cellphone (and all three of these items appeared in the first 20 pages). The editor's note described an experience several years ago, brokering an event in which the talent refused to get out of bed for less than half a million dollars. David Granger (Esquire's Editor in Chief) writes, "... as ridiculous as conspicuous consumerism could seem back then, it now seems criminal." He wrote this under the guise that his magazine is offering recession-friendly, quality items, because according to their logic, in a time of economic downturn, we should buy things that will last- in other words make investments. I don't know about you, but there is nothing I relate to less than a cell phone that costs as much as a car. It seems the idea of a "recessionista" has only widened the gap between the classes.

It's not that I have a problem with the finer things in life. Honestly, if I had the money, I'd probably own a lot more nice things. I don't personally have a problem with my status. My coworkers, friends and family and I all make do with what we have. But as the "Style Manual for the SUCCESSFUL Man," I wish Esquire would encourage those of its readers who can greatly contribute to the economy to do so. Celebrities, wealthy bankers, trust-fund socialites, etc. would all help the economy out a whole lot more by continuing to live their lives of luxury, rather than jumping on the recession bandwagon- acting as though they are pinching pennies and "making do" when all they're really doing is prolonging this recession and insulting all of us who are actually trying to eke out a living and look good doing it.

P.S. I absolutely HAD to share my favorite (or most insulting) excerpt from the Big Black Book. In what I suppose is an attempt to encourage consumers to purchase a Belvest cashmere and angora blend blazer, Esquire informs us that "the mark of a well-made blazer [is]... how easy it is to ball it up and chuck it in a corner." How much does said blazer cost, you ask? Only $2495.00 and NO the decimal point is NOT in the wrong place. I don't know about you, but if I had a blazer that cost nearly $2500, the last thing I'd do is test its worth by balling it up and tossing it on the floor. Shame on you, Esquire. Shame.

Menswear for the coming year

Guys, I know I say it every time, but I've been neglecting you again. It's just so easy to do sometimes because let's be honest:

1.) I'm a woman
2.) Womenswear is SO much easier to write about because there is SO much out there

But despite these two key factors, I'm going to give it my all for all the gentlemen out there. Because let's be honest again: there is nothing finer than a well-dressed man.

I've been thinking about the economic crisis of the last year and how it has effected our style. Historically, times of economic distress usually coincide with a more conservative approach to clothing. For example, the Roaring 20's brought about lots of super short hemlines- women in that era dared to bare their knees and sometimes even an inch or two above. Sounds like nothing to us today, but in that time it was huge. See the difference in these patterns:

The necklines on the top pattern are low cut and the hems are high. The 2nd pattern has a dramatically longer hemline as well as a more conservative neckline. In terms of menswear, suits went from the more flashy "zoot suit" style to conservative cuts and more sturdy fabrics. In this day and age, the differences aren't quite as noticeable, but they are there. However, I want to encourage all the men out there to dress for what they hope for themselves for the future. Rather than tone down your attire to reflect the down economy, focus instead on dressing for your future success. If you want to be a top executive at your company, dress like you own the place. If you're looking to get out of the corporate environment and into a field more laid-back and relaxed, lose the 3-piece suit and pocket silks. The economy may have forced you out of a job, and in turn made you look at the other skills you can bring to the table. Dressing for your new career path will not only help you present yourself better at interviews, but will also help you get into the right frame of mind. It's like an actor who puts on a costume for the first time. Suddenly the character comes to life in a way that they hadn't before the dress rehearsal.

1.) Corporate Cody:

Are you hoping to make partner this year at your law firm? Or gunning for the top PR Exec position? Maybe you're just starting in the corporate world and you want to make an impression. Wear a suit. A nice one. This $365 suit from J. Crew may seem like a splurge, but when it comes to suits, you get what you pay for. A well tailored suit will separate you from the pack in a good way. Plus, a suit is more of an investment, so you should spend a little more on it anyway. It's something you'll wear for years to come, so consider the cost of it spread out over those years- not so pricey anymore, right? Look for classic cuts and fabrics that will stand the test of time and accessorize with power pieces- a strong tie, leather briefcase and shoes, and a classic and classy timepiece.

2.) Arty Arthur

Maybe you've been in the corporate sector for too long and now you're hoping to pursue a more artistic field- music, art, design, etc. Transition easily with the professional-yet-quirky vest look. The above pictured J.Crew vest for $98 seems a bit steep, but shop around and you'll find plenty at bargain prices. Second hand shops are great places to hit for quirky but cool vests. Also, it doesn't have to be a button-front vest- a sweater vest works as well. It also doesn't have to be on top of a button-front shirt- a long sleeve graphic tee or henley under the open vest can take the look in a more casual direction. Just make sure the vest is well tailored and fits you perfectly. Tie or no tie, this look exudes confidence and style while still looking perfectly professional. Also, it works with jeans or a pair of trousers. Depending on where you are in your job transition, you can have a lot of fun with accessories- the right ivy or newsboy cap along with a leather cuff and "Beatle" boots- you'll look super cool, and very put together.

3.) Roamin' Roger:

Maybe the downturn in the economy has you moving to a different state or even another country to seek out a new career path. Sweaters will keep you warm on the road, plus they make great layering pieces. This one from J.Crew is actually a decent price- $69.50. Sweaters are like suits- a quality classic will last a lifetime. A henley and a button front underneath this shawl collar plus a quilted "puffy" vest on top will be warm but mobile. Reuters terms these guys the "wanderers:"

"...the Great Recession presents a great opportunity to pull up stakes and hit the open road." They advise men to "begin your adventure with outdoors-y clothing." Good advice.

No matter how the economy has effected your job situation, take the opportunity every day to dress for the future. You won't regret it.

Go bold with color

Having my mom around this weekend has actually provided me with a lot more ideas and inspiration for this humble little blog. Yesterday was the story of the red shoes and how to ask for a discount. Today, she was pleasantly surprised by the color combinations I chose to wear over the weekend. Today was chocolate brown with bright turquoise. I'm not saying that blue and brown is a color combination revolution, but it did get me thinking about color combinations in general. This fall, bold colors are hot, but instead of just adding a pop of fuchsia with a pair of shoes or a scarf, try pairing it with a cobalt blue or a lime green somewhere else on the outfit. Not so much that you look like a clown, but enough that there is more visual interest to your look.

I have a fabulous lime green jersey dress that I love to wear with brown tights and a brown cami. Boring, right? Not when I add a bright purple flower pin at the waist! Instant style and it didn't take any longer than the outfit without the pin. Adding color is a fun way to update your wardrobe without spending a fortune. Pair pieces that you would never have put together before and see what happens. You might find a new look that you never thought of before.

What's your favorite quirky color combination? Orange and pink? Emeral green and sunshine yellow? Leave a comment and tell me all about it.

How to get a discount

My mom is in town visiting this weekend which is why I was MIA yesterday. So sorry for not posting! Anyway, we had a lovely dinner tonight and she was asking about all the shopping I do for work. I told her the story of the red shoes and how I got a discount on them. It made me realize that it's a great lesson for anyone to learn- if you want a better price on someting, ASK for it. The worst thing that will happen is the salesperson will say "no." And then you're no worse off than you were before you asked for the discount. In a best case scenario, you get a bargain!

In today's current economic climate, a lot of people are looking for a good deal, but guess what, a lot of shop owners are looking for a sale. And most of them are willing to cut you a break in order to make that sale, so do yourself (and them) a favor and ask for a discount! I do it all the time and I have no problem doing it. For some of you, it may be a little awkward the first time you ask, but eventually you'll get over that.

Keep in mind that you have to have reasonable expectations- they aren't going to knock 50% off a brand new dress, but they might take 15-20% off a piece that's the last of its kind taking up space on the rack. They'll also be more likely to give you a discount if you are spending a lot or buying several items. You are probably thinking that this advice won't work in a major department store, but you're wrong! No matter the size of the store, go for the discount. Ask the cashier if they have a coupon to scan, or if there is a promotion starting soon or that ended recently and see if they'll give you the discount despite your off timing. More often than not, they'll do it.

Some areas are easier than others to get discounts, too. For example, shoe departments in major department stores often have empoyees who work on commission, so discounting (to an extent) can be at their discretion. It may reduce their commission a bit, but like I said before, they are still happy to have made a sale rather than see you walk out of the store empty handed.

In any situation where you are asking for a discount, know your bottom line BEFORE you ask. And always ask for more than what you actually want. If you are hoping for a 15% discount, ask for 25% just in case they haggle a bit. Who knows? You might get the 25% you asked for! (I did with the red shoes, remember?)

When I shop vintage or antique shops, I always wait until I have picked out everything I want, then I look at the price tags and add it up in my head. Let's say my total is going to be $45 for a handful of vintage accessories- a scarf, a couple of brooches, a pair of earrings and a necklace. I might approach the counter and offer $35 for everything. They'll probably counter offer me back up to $40, but guess what- I just got a little over 10% discount!

Finally, be prepared to walk away. Decide before you hit the counter what it will take for you to make the purchase and if you don't get the discount, walk away and leave the purchases behind. Nine times out of ten, you'll get what you want as you are about to exit.

Good luck and happy hunting! Email me if you have a discount story to share- I'd love to hear it!

Layering for less

This week the air has really started to have that nip in it- that crispness that says that fall is here. Fall to means that I get to start layering my outfits. I grew up in New England with freezing cold winters- fall was hardly a season- it often felt like summer went straight into winter and winter meant layers. I also love winter because I view outerwear as an opportunity to wear an addition outfit, but you already know that.


Today I'd like to show you guys and gals some trendy pieces and where you can find them for bargain prices.

First up, the animal print cardigan. This $348 embellished snakeskin print cardigan from Neiman Marcus is gorgeous, but I doubt many of us have that kind of cash for a cardigan!

Personally, I don't wear twin-sets. I rarely buy them, but when I do, I never wear them together. Instead I view each as a layering piece, and if you have the cash to get this set and love it, then go for it. It's just not me, but I get its appeal. For those of you on a bit of a tighter budget, I offer you this leopard print cardigan from Forever 21, also known as Bargain Central! It's a steal at $22.80, don't you think?

Personally, I'm a HUGE fan of all the embellished tops that are so abundant these days. It love the ones with feminine details like ruffles and floral motifs. This cashmere sweater also from Neiman Marcus is gorgeous- the color is so vibrant and the "ribbon detail" adds some lovely visual interest.

It's also $398, which is significantly out of my price range. Four hundred dollars is more like a car payment to me. An expensive car. So for those of you like me who want their sweaters to cost less than a quarter of your car payment, I offer you this lovely, drapey sweater from Boston Proper.

I think that in terms of color and detail, this sweater is pretty spot on. It's only $69, which may still be pricey for some, but you're getting a lot of bang for your buck- the pleating is really well done.

Layering isn't all about the top layer- it's just as fun to have something interesting on the bottom or middle layer. Like this gorgeous Escada top available at Saks for a mere $590.

I can just see myself layering something like this under a cropped swing coat or bolero jacket- something with short but roomy sleeves- yes I'm a sucker for the long sleeves under short sleeves look- sue me. Anyway, by "something like this," I mean something that isn't nearly a month's rent. Something more like this ruffle top from Forever 21.

Can you guess the price? You never will- it's too fantastic. Only $17.80! Less than twenty bucks! Pretty darn good if you ask me.

I could honestly go on and on about how to layer and how to find cheap layering pieces, but I'm sure after a while you'd all be bored. So why not tell ME about YOUR favorite layering pieces. Email me a picture of your favorite layered outfit and I'll be happy to post it on the blog. Or leave a comment and tell me about your favorite bargain layering pieces. Or just leave a comment to say "hi" and that you stopped by. I love those kinds of comments! Have a great day everyone!

Amy & Aaron's Wedding

So today was the big wedding day for Amy & Aaron. The weather was spectacular which was a total surprise since all week long they'd been predicting rain. Instead it was about 10 degrees warmer that it has been all week and the sun was shining all day. It was gorgeous.

But the weather doesn't have a whole lot to do with my fashion dilemma. As you all know, I really WANTED to wear this outfit to the wedding:

I wasn't totally convinced that it was appropriate and pretty much everyone who offered feedback recommended this outfit instead:

In the end, I got to wear both outfits- the first one to the rehearsal and dinner which was followed by a party at Amy & Aaron's house. The next day I wore the black dress, but I decided to change up the shoes and wore these instead:

The site of the ceremony was in the groom's brother's backyard, so I thought a more substantial heel and an ankle strap was more appropriate than a satin stiletto pump. They totally worked. In the end I'm really glad I went with the black because Amy actually had a gorgeous corsage for me which would NOT have worked with the polka dot dress. Here's a lovely photo of me with the blushing bride. Isn't she stunning?

I have to tell you guys that the necklace I wore got SO many compliments. It was only $7 at Forever 21, but every time I wear it, people ask if I made it out of vintage beads or if it's an antique- it fools everyone every time. I think it works really well with that particular dress- the neckline is perfect for it. Every time I tell people the price and where I got it, they just about die. But enough about me- doesn't Amy look spectacular? Her dress was so pretty and I just love the orchids in her hair.

If you have any particular thoughts or questions about my outfit or Amy's outfit or wedding outfits in general, just leave me a comment and I'll address it in a future blog. Talk to you later!

Sooooo much!

I feel like I have SO much to share with you guys that I could literally post 5 times a day and still have more to say. So please let meknow if there is anything specific you'd like to read about- I'll be happy to oblige. In the meantime, I have some fun things to share. First, a combination of two recent posts: Fair Indigo and cameos. They've come together in this fabulous outfit:

I'm sure most of you have been thinking that I wear nothing but dresses and you wouldn't be too far off. I do pretty much live my life in dresses whenever I can. They're more comfortable than sweat pants most of the time but they look so much better. I do, however, know how to rock an outfit that does not involve a dress. Like the one above- I'm really happy with it. It's stylish, comfortable and inexpensive.

The breakdown:

Cowl neck top: Fair Indigo, $22.50 (on sale)

Cropped swing coat: Target, $13.98 (on sale)

Jeans: Old Navy, $19 (on sale)

Shoes: Target, $19.99

Cameos: Various antique dealers, total for all six was probably about $20

Total: $95.47

Under $100- not bad considering all those cameos. I like the cluster placement and I got a lot of compliments on the idea today. A lot of people looked at me with fairly quizzical expressions, but ultimately the response was good. I think it's a clever, creative way of wearing what could be a very dated-looking accessory.

Speaking of dated accessories, today was also a good day for some fabulous vintage jewelry finds, but I will save them for a future post. I also received a package in the mail from ShopKim on Etsy. It had some really cool goodies in it. Here are a couple of sneak peeks:

Can you tell what they are? Leave a comment to venture a guess.

Rate My Look

This photo, my friends, is clear evidence that I practice what I preach, specifically breaking the fashion rules and even more specifically, the idea of mixing prints. It's hard to tell in the photo, but the scarf around my waist is all sorts of prints- diagonal stripes, checks, etc. And the dress is a sort of geometric polka-dot. And I think you'll all agree that it totally works! From the colors in the scarf, you can see I pulled out a turquoise to accent with my lovely cocktail ring and of course the mustard yellow shoes. Since I happen to remember, I'll break down the cost of the outfit for you:

Dress: H&M, purchased at a second-hand shop for $15

Scarf: No label, purchased at a vintage shop for $3

Earrings: Ann Taylor Loft, purchased for $7

Shoes: Pulse, purchased at a Deb Shop for $10

Ring: I'm sorry I don't know the name of the designer, purchased at Festoon in downtown Lancaster for $40

The ring cost more than the rest of the outfit combined, but it's still all less than $100 for the whole look. Not too shabby.

I think for these "Rate My Look" posts, I really need to start taking the picture at the start of the day, rather than at the end of the day like this one. I'm just a little more shiny than I'd like to be! But more importantly, what do YOU think? Love it? Hate it? Indifferent?

Shoesday Tuesday

A lot of people have been asking lately about clothing and shoes that are better for the environment- organic fabrics, vegan shoes, fair trade manufacturers and distributors, etc. It's obviously an important aspect of shopping for quite a lot of people. It can be difficult to find clothing and shoes that are both affordable and green. Until the practices used on these items become more commonplace, you can expect to pay a little bit more, but as green clothing becomes more mainstream, you will see the prices come down a bit.

Today's Shoesday Tuesday focus is on Madden Girl the vegan shoe line by Steve Madden. It's a positive sign that established designers are jumping on the green bandwagon, even if it is in small doses. You can find Madden Girl just about anywhere, but today I'm bringing you four Madden Girls shoes that are not only perfect for fall, but they are all available at Zappos for around $50. In addition, Zappos offers free shipping both ways nearly all the time, so there is no risk involved when placing an order. First up are a pair of fabulous black heels with the trendy cut-outs I mentioned a few weeks ago ($49.90):

What I love about these is that they're simple, but edge-y at the same time. Also, the criss-cross detail on the front can be eye catching or subtle depending on how it contrasts against your skin or colored tights, or if you wear the shoes with a pair of opaque black tights.

Next up, a super cute pair of peep-toe ankle boots ($49.90):

Once again, these could be paired with either bare legs, opaque black tights or trendy brightly colored tights. It all depends on your personal preference and the occassion. I also love the buckle detail and the interesting "pleating" on the front. The heel is substantial enough that you could even wear these to work provided the rest of the outfit is toned down a bit.

Next, are the most expensive of the day at $54.90, but I think they're worth it.

What trend ISN'T covered with these fabulous shoes?

• 
  
  Metallic? Check!
  
  
  
• 
  
  Ankle boot style? Check!
  
  
  
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  Cut-outs? Check!
  
  
  
• 
  
  80's throwback? Check!
  
  
  

You'll really cover the gamut of trends with these shoes. Personally, I'm a huge fan of the pewter metallic finish- it's so sophisticated, but not flashy, like so many metallics tend to be. I think I just talked myself into ordering these.

Wrapping up this post is another fabulous combination of sweetness and edge ($49.90):

I just love the deep, saturated color of these, but just like the pewter booties above, they are also available in black. What's interesting about these is the 40's style rounded toe, mixed with the oversize buckle and the almost Escher-like swirling detail in the front. It also kind of reminds me of a Celtic knot. Either way, I love them and I hope you do, too.

And the best part for all you vegans out there is that none of these shoes use leather of any kind- they are all man-made materials. Talk about guilt-free! And for those of you who are hesitant to shop for shoes online, you're in luck. Not only are there plenty of Steve Madden stores all over the country, but most major department stores carry the line as well including Bon-Ton, and Boscov's. You can also check Marshalls & TJ Maxx as well- the styles might be a little older, but the prices will be fabulous.

Give the gift that keeps on giving (how cheesy!)

Hey everyone! This is just a quick plug for my style consulting business. I just wanted to let all of you know that I am now offering gift certificates. You can choose a dollar amount to give or a specific service. For example, an initial closet consultation starts at $50, so you could get a gift certificate for that amount OR one that simply offers a free closet consultation to the bearer. I have a list of services on my website along with contact information so that you can email me to order your gift certificate. Feel free to take a moment to browse my site and take a look at the services I offer. With the holidays fast approaching, I'm sure you'll be looking for stocking stuffers, and what better stocking stuffer than a gift card?

I really love what I do because I think when people feel good in the clothes they are wearing, they carry themselves differently, with more confidence and a more upbeat demeanor. When you wear clothes that fit, that look stylish and polished, you send a message of confidence that will carry through both your personal and professional life. All too often people take their appearance for granted, forgetting that it can propel them forward if it's good or halt them in their tracks if it misses the mark. Don't wait another minute to make this investment in your future! And while you're getting help for yourself, consider a gift certificate for a friend or loved one. It costs less than you think, too. 

I'm sure many people think that getting personal style advice from a professional is a costly service only available to the wealthy elite of big cities like New York or Los Angeles. Your Recession Fashionista is here to dispel that myth right now. Contact me today and find out how affordable it is!   

Recession Fashionista- How to dress for a job interview

Unfortunately, I know of quite a few people who have been laid off due to company downsizing in this recession. Fortunately, those people are all talented, intelligent, skilled individuals that any company should be happy to hire. But no matter what your experience, you can blow an interview if you don't look the part. Did you know that in some states, your appearance is not a protected class where discrimination is concerned? If you look disheveled or unprofessional in your attire and grooming, your potential employer can legally use that as reasoning NOT to hire you! In other words, while they can't discriminate against age, race, gender, etc., they can discriminate against your appearance.

Dressing for a job interview isn't too difficult, but there are some aspects that can be tricky. First of all, find out the dress code of your potential employer. When HR calls to schedule the interview with you, it is perfectly appropriate to ask then. Business, business casual, casual- these are all common dress codes, but some companies don't necessarily have one either. Without asking too many questions, feel free to ask for clarification if the dress code is casual- to some that means jeans and t-shirts, to others it's actually closer to business casual standards. When it doubt, overdress. Did you know that there are STILL lots of companies that require panty-hose with skirts & dresses? It's true. Scary, but true.

Next, consider the industry your potential job is part of. Obviously, if you're applying for a job in an artistic field- music, art, fashion, etc. then you can have a LOT more freedom with your clothing choices. In fact, showing your creativity through your attire can make you stand out in a positive way. Be careful, though. If you're applying for an accounting position at a music company, don't try to dress like a rock star in leather & chains! But if your wardrobe typically has a bit of an edge to it, it's ok to show a little off that edge. Just make sure that the remember YOU, not your outfit. If your potential job is in a more conservative industry, dress accordingly, but don't be afraid to add a little of your personality to your attire. A bright, printed scarf tied to the handle of your briefcase adds a little flair without being over the top. Also, a plain suit can be jazzed up with a little bit of interesting jewelry. Key words: a little bit. Don't go too far. I repeat: you want the interviewer to remember YOU, not your outfit.

Finally, I know you all really want the specifics, so here are guidelines for basic job interview dress code:

SHOES:

• Generally speaking, stilettos are a no-no for job interviews.
• Keep your heel height conservative (less than 3 inches) and the heel itself more substantial than a stiletto.
• Open toes and strappy shoes should be avoided but if you must, make sure you spruce up your toes with a decent pedicure.
• Shiny or sparkly shoes should also be avoided- save the satin, rhinestones and glitter for after 5 PM. Stick with leather and fabrics with a matte finish.
• Color is ok- a pop of color at your feet adds a little personality to your outfit.
• Never wear sneakers, flip-flops or any other type of casual or athletic style of shoe.
• Guys, a nice pair of leather dress shoes are always appropriate. Make sure they're clean and relatively scuff-free.

CLOTHES:

• Low cut tops and mini-skirts are verbotten. This seems like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised what some people think is work appropriate.
• Small to medium subtle prints are better than large, bold ones.
• Use bright colors in moderation.
• As annoying as it might be, if the company's dress code requires pantyhose, wear them.
• Wear clothes that are structured, fitted and well-tailored. Loose, flowy, or ill-fitting clothes will make you look frumpy.
• No jeans, please.

GROOMING:

• Neat, conservative hairstyles are a must.
• Avoid perfume and cologne, but definitely wear deodorant.
• Trim your nails and keep the polish light colored and conservative- no acrylic tips, please.
• Wear make-up, but not a lot of it and once again, keep it conservative.
• Guys, make sure you shave or trim your beard.

If you have a job interview coming up, I wish you all the best and I hope these tips will help you make a strong, professional impression. Once you get the job (and I know you will), model your daily work attire after the best-dressed person at the office. If you're not sure who that is, look to the ones at the top of the company and follow their lead. Just like your personal style outside of work, it's a great idea to have an office, or professional, style icon.