The Gift of Marshall's

After my last venture at Goodwill, I was ready to now test the waters into the big world of budget fashion. While it is easier to raise the steaks by raising the budget, I wanted to try my hand at a more pulled together and dressy look. Naturally, I turned to the once place where affordable meets designer duds, Marshall's. I gave myself a budget of $100 for each outfit. I came up with the following looks. I was impressed that after 10 minutes that I had found a universally flattering Calvin Klein dress with a price tag of $34.99. I paired my steal of a find with a Nine West purse for a mere $19.99. I topped off the look by finding a pair of Jessica Simpson two toned leather and suede platforms with a $30.00 price tag. But my fun and utter pride did not stop there. I then went on to create a more casual look with a sweet side. A sundress is the picture of perfection in my head. When scanning the racks, I found a sleeveless dress that matched the neutral with a bold blue. Much to my delight it had a price of $24.99. I almost cried out to the heavens with joy! I thought I needed a color that would make this blue pop and was immediately drawn to a leather and orange Steve Madden clutch that was a $19.99! The shoes were a member of the Steve Madden family and rang in at $34.99. I was left with money in the bank and the knowledge that I found two very fashionable outfits that suited my needs and my wants. Shopping that doesn't end in overspending and the twinge of guilt is my kind of day.

A Goodwill Adventure

 I have spent a considerable amount of time wondering how I could really branch outside my very own comfort zone and drive home the point that true style doesn't have to have a high price tag. What better way than seek out a shopping experience that is readily available to virtually everyone? Goodwill it is! Goodwill allows you to shift through so many people's closets all at once. It is a treasure trove full of various colors, textures, lines and silhouettes at a price point that doesn't make you feel guilty even in the slightest way. This outfit was put together with a tight budget that didn't come close to breaking the bank at $48 total. The feeling you get from pulling together a look that is chic and affordable can easily warm your heart and open your eyes (and mind) to seeking out all fashion opportunities.

That Touch of Mint, the unexpected combo.

  Usually I feel mint is best reserved for a pack of gum or better yet, your bowl of ice cream. But when reading my March issue of Vogue, I was hit by a bolt of inspiration. Why limit myself to certain color palette when I have so many colors at my disposal? One thing I loathe is being told what colors are acceptable for what season or what is currently "in." I want to feel bold enough to mix that mint green dress with silver and black heels and not care if anyone else approves. Be bold and be you.

That Touch of Mint

That Touch of Mint by missbianca2437 featuring a shift dress

Short Story

Short Story by missbianca2437 featuring a red t shirt

Affordably Chic

"Forever Chic" is a set that is meant to embody effortless and natural style. This may, at first, seem to only appeal to younger demographic. However, by changing some of the accessories, this can be a outfit for multiple age groups. Chic by no means was ever meant to be achieved only by an elite crowd with deep pockets. Chic can belong to any and all of us who seek a look to transcend time. Always take a chance by mixing simple pieces with the more embellished. Sometimes it just feels good to get back down to the basics....while bumping it up a notch.

Forever Chic

Forever Chic by missbianca2437 featuring a beige dress

Pardon my Retro, but not my price tag

The retro inspired set below was a chance to break the norm by mixing colors and unexpected prints. Most importantly it didn't break the bank. Where else are you going to find retro shorts for $16? Take a well deserved vacation from over spending and open your eyes to the cheap thrills in life.

Pardon my Retro

Pardon my Retro by missbianca2437 featuring peep toe pumps

For some,  fashion and style are an innate ability. The ability to seamlessly pair items that not only define strong personal style, they exude confidence. But what about those who are not naturally inclined down this path? Entering into the world of fashion and all that it entails can leave a beginner feeling discouraged, overwhelmed and unsure. However, take solace in the fact that this is a skill that anyone can discover. They key is understanding that strong personal style and self awareness go hand in hand. By discovering who you are and what you are truly made of on this journey will not only affect your personal style, it will challenge you. Challenge you to be comfortable in your own skin and and find your very own "style voice". There are some simple steps to start this process:
      - Collect images of people whose personal style you admire and want to emulate. Think about what specific  looks you admire. Focus on the message their style choices send and how you would to translate that to your very own wardrobe. Step outside your comfort  zone and really  experiment. 
    - Ask friends, family, co workers and people you encounter where they like to shop. This will help you gauge what places are available in your area at different price points. This is especially affective if you relate to their personal style. The point is, start talking to people. When it comes to fashion, people tend not to be shy when it comes to sharing. 
     -After finding some style icons, think about what pieces you would like to build your new wardrobe. Do you want build around new basics or special pieces? Remember your new wardrobe will take time to build. Rome wasn't built in a day and neither can your wardrobe be. 
    -Keep an open mind. Don't automatically assume a particular style or piece won't look good on you...or that it will look good. Try pieces on, experiment with colors and see what shapes and lines work best on your body. 
These are some simple steps to ease you into the process. Of course, there are some who may still need additional help. Sometimes we just need an extra push and a little support to get you through. This may be the time to seek a professional. AICI has a list of accredited Image Consultants in multiple areas that are always ready to help another person on that fashion journey. If you are in the San Jose area and need of assistance....you got a friend in me.