ALL Hair is Good

It's been 3 yrs. since I big chopped and almost 2 years since beginning the natural hair growth journey. I decided to go natural because it was cost effective and less time consuming than being relaxed. After working all week the last thing I wanted to do on Saturday was spend all day in the salon. At the end of my relaxed days, I was going to the salon every two weeks and spending $50 a visit. I love being natural and while it has had it's challenges, I have no desire to return to the creamy crack (although I do get tempted to big chop again). There is so much flexibility with natural hair. I've had braids, two-strand twists, and comb coils; had my hair sstraightened and colored; rocked a twist-out and an afro.

  

I met Ms. Jodie Briggs at Smart Style in my local Walmart (I know you can do it all at Walmart, buy your grocery, buy some clothes, get your oil changed, get your hair done . . .), she is also a natural hair sister, but she does all types of hair. ALL Hair is Good at Lyons Hair Care is all about promoting and specializing in natural hair and healthy hair through treatment. This week I was in a I don't feel like touching my hair for few weeks mood, so Jodie created this braided two-strand twist updo. This style will last for at least 3 weeks as long as I oil my scalp and wrap my hair at night. Week1- I will stick with the complete updo, Week 2- I'll probably unpin the two-strand twists in the front, Week 3- I'll start with taking the two-strand twists in the front down for a twist-out and eventually take out all of the twists for a twist-out mohawk. If you are looking for a new look or a new stylist call Jodie today!

 Braided Two-Strand Twist Updo [$50]

Earrings - Charlotte Russe [2 for $8]

ALL Hair is Good at

Lyon's Hair Care (salon portion of the shop)

 1048 Summit Ave Greensboro, NC 27405

Saving Lives One Head At A Time

Ms. Jodie Briggs, Stylist

804-301-5315 (cell) 336-273-5756 (salon)

allhairisgood@gmail.com

Color Blocking: Black and Blue

Only in NC will it snow the end of March. Here's an outfit that I intended to post a few weeks ago when it was still cool, now that it's back to freezing outside I need a reminder of warmer weather.



So I was way nervous about mixing up my normal routine and experimenting with color blocking, but thanks to an inspirational post from fashion du jour that included a color wheel (gotta have a visual) here is my first attempt (that is still kinda safe) with black and navy blue:

George (Walmart) Trench Coat - NY&Co Ruffle Neck Dress - George (Walmart) Cardigan - Old Navy Tights - Maripe (Rack Room) Boots - Express Necklace

Look out for the dress in a few more upcoming posts. I just love remixing outfits!

Campus Style at UNCG

Today's post is the beginning of a new featured post that I am so excited about! Inspired by Essence Magazine's "Street Style", I had an idea to feature students, faculty, and staff at UNC Greensboro who are dressed to impress on an IMPR(4L)ess budget. It was simply fate that the first student featured is a young man. I've had a few guys here at UNCG comment on the blog but also say that there really isn't anything for them, so they would pass it on to their girl friends. Well guys here you go:

Express Shirt, Tie, and Pants

Aldo Shoes

Albrey is a student at UNCG majoring in Public Health. He will be doing an internship this summer at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, DC with the APEC program, so he's working on putting together a professional wardrobe. Albrey and I had the chance to chat briefly and one of the most valuable things he shared that I wish more people would understand was that he considered his professional wardrobe an "investment", so while he still shopped on a budget, he shopped for brands that will last and transition easily year after year, season after season. Now, that's what IMPR(4L)ess is really all about.

What was your shopping budget when you purchased this outfit?

$150. I ended up spending $155 total at Express

Were you shopping with specific items in mind?

I knew I needed some shirts and a tie that was interchangeable to give me several looks. You can easily switch up your look by buying a neutral color pant and several shirts in different colors and styles. I like shopping at Express because every tie has as least two to three shirts that match and vice versa. I especially like the fit of their clothes. These pants are straight leg, but there are other fits depending on your preference. I made sure to go shopping during one of Express' BOGO events. This shirt was regular price $59.90 B1G1 $19.90, so I got two for $80 or $40 for each. The same thing for the pants, regular price was $59.90 B1G1 for $39.90, so I got two pair for $100 or $50 each. I also had a coupon $30 of a purchase of $75 so I added the tie. The tie was $39.90 regular price B1G1 50% off.

Where did you purchase your shoes, belt, and watch?

I got this belt at Walmart and it's my everyday belt. The shoes I got from Aldo. Their prices are somewhat reasonable but you can't beat comfort. And they are something that I'm gonna have and wear for while. I got this watch from JC Penny a while ago for only $20, I love this watch.

Any advice that you would give someone trying to achieve your look?

Save some money and make that investment. Buy things that you can wear even after you graduate. Start with neutral colored pants and you can add two or three shirts and ties throughout the year. Always wear the same color belt and shoes, never wear a brown belt and black shoes or vice versa. Keep accessories simple, don't over do it by mixing silver and gold or too much gold or silver. And learn how to tie a tie.

So, what's your everyday style for spring and summer?

For the summer I usually go with a white t-shirt and balling shirts. But the outfit I'm wearing today is something that I'm going to have to get used to wearing for my internship and after I graduate.

*Special thanks for Albrey for being the first featured on Campus Style at UNCG. He just stopped by the office to say hello to one of my colleagues and we put him on the spot, but he was such a good sport.

Work(2)Weekend

Both Pictures:
Famous Maker Cardigan - Uptown Cheapskate [$7.99]
Patent Skinny Belt - Borrowed from a dress
Multicolored Scarf - Rainbow [2 for $10]


Picture 1:
Bitten Jeans (no longer made, were carried at Steve and Barry's)
Life Stride Black Wedge Flats - Belk
Gold Earrings - Forever 21 [2 for $8]


Picture 2:
Mossimo (Target) Coral Tank - Burlington Brands [$5.99]
Banana Republic Black Trousers - Plato's Closet

This is actually a weekend to work look because I wore the first outfit on the weekend before wearing the second look to work. I simply switched out the black t-shirt for black pants and added a bright colored tank with the already colorful cardigan and scarf. I love SPRING!

Threads Fashion Show: C2A Designs

UNC Greensboro's Consumer Apparel and Retail Studies (CARS) Student Organization presented their spring fashion show "Under the Influence: Art, Music, and Cinema in Fashion" March 18th. UNCG student designers had to opportunity to showcase their best work with inspiration from art, music, and cinema. The show was AMAZING!  I was so impressed with some of the fashion that I wanted to purchase some items right off the runway.

I had to make sure I was extra cute because you can't be a fashion blogger and not be fashion forward at a fashion show: 

NY&Co Ruffle Neck Blouse

Urban Vibe Vest – Plato’s Closet [$2]

Bitten Jeans – Steve and Barry’s (Closed)

Apostrophe Shoes – Sear’s [$9.99]

Bangles – Plato’s Closet [$2]

3 recent UNCG graduates from the CARS department, Angela Fate, Christina Degreaffenreidt, and Heather Carmel Pynes (pictured below) showcased pieces from their up and coming new line C2A Designs, trendy attire for full-figured women. The pieces, inspired by rapper Nicki Minaj, were featured in the music segment of the fashion show. I love what these young ladies are doing and can't wait to see them do big things.  

C²A Designs 

Angela Fate, Christina Degreaffenreidt, and Heather Carmel Pynes  

Backstage Pass: Getting Ready for the Show to Begin 

Rip the Runway! 

C²A Designs is doing research on the women's apparel industry and would really love to know your opinion. Fill out this survey for a chance to win a $50 Visa gift card!! Just click the link below!!

https://www.surveymonkey.com/upandcoming
 

Classic Trench Coat

Long before I started reading Lloyd Boston's "The Style Checklist", I've been in search of the perfect classic trench:

I have a black trench that I purchased a few years ago, and while it's still in style, I really wanted a khaki trench that I can wear for spring and summer. I headed out to Tanger Outlets in Mebane, NC over the weekend with 30% off coupons for the Banana Republic Outlet and Gap Outlet stores. I really liked the Banana Republic trench, it was lined and was the perfect length but the color was lighter that what I wanted. The GAP trench was just okay, it came in some bright colors for the spring and summer, but it was just too long, wasn't lined, and the pockets were low, taking out the option to get it hemmed. Both were a little above the price point I wanted to spend. So after consulting with my friend Kei, I decided to pass and keep on looking . . .

and I am so glad I did! I stopped at Burlington Coat Factory in Burlington, NC on my way home and found this Robert Louis trench regular priced at $68 for only $19.99. It's fully lined and the 3/4 sleeve will transition easily from spring to summer. I dropped it off at the dry cleaners to be pressed and Scotchguard treated (I learned this trick from my days as a server/bartender - makes any garment waterproof and stain resistant) to make sure that it stays in like new condition.

Robert Louis Trench - Burlington Coat Factory $68 [$19.99]

UNS 201: College Student to Young Professional

University Studies 201: The Sophomore Experience is an undergraduate course at UNC Greensboro designed to help students discover strengths, life purpose, explore major and career options, and sharpen academic skills. My colleague and friend Rhonda asked me to speak to her UNS 201 class about how to dress professionally for completion of their final project which includes shadowing a professional in the career they plan to pursue.

It is important to make a good first impression, this opportunity to shadow a professional in your desired career could open the door for more opportunities like an internship or part-time job. Eventually, your skills and work ethic will speak for your, but people see your first. It doesn't take a lot of money, just a little time to update a wardrobe from college student to young professional.

Most college students' everyday apparel consists of t-shirts, tanks, jeans, and sneakers. This is okay for class and campus, but not okay for shadowing a professional.

To update your look from college student to young professional, let's start with a few items that can be incorporated into your current wardrobe. You may already have these items in your closet, but just have never put them together for a complete polished and professional look.

DARK DENIM JEANS: Jeans should be free of any embellishments, fading (intentional or unintentional), and rips/fraying. Also beware of jeans with logos on the pocket or colored stitching. Old Navy and GAP are my favorites for men and women.

SHIRTS, SHIRTS, SHIRTS: . The white button down shirt is a classic for both men and women. If you don't own a button down shirt, a polo is the next best thing. If you don't own either, you can always dress up a tank or t-shirt with accessories.

 DRESS PANTS: Black dress pants should be a staple item in everyone's wardrobe. Not black skinny jeans or denim period, but black polyester blend or wool blend pants. Ladies, I think you should actually own two pair, one to wear with flats and one to wear with heels. If you don't have any black pants or don't have the money to invest in a pair right now, go with any neutral color, brown, navy, or khaki.

LAYERING: A solid colored cardigan or v-neck sweater can dress up any outfit, taking it from casual to business casual. Ladies add a scarf. Guys add a button up shirt and tie.

ACCESSORIES: Keep it simple! Scarves, bangles, bracelets, watches, and earrings should be kept to a minimum. You should wear only 1 statement piece. For example ladies, if you wear a multi-colored scarf, keep your accessories neutral in gold or silver. Guys, if your ears a pierced, wear a small diamond stud or no earring at all.

 BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL TOTAL LOOK

This look should be considered an investment, but you still don't have to break the bank. One of the things I asked for my undergraduate graduation was an interview suit. I've only worn it a few times, but it's there when I need it. Ladies definitely have more options here and can often find a wardrober suit (includes jacket, pants, and skirt). Guys typically have to opt for suit separates. Quality suits are lined, have polyester or wool blend.

WHERE TO SHOP IN GREENSBORO: I frequently shop at Goodwill on Battleground Ave, Plato's Closet, Uptown Cheapskate, Ross, TJMaxx, Marshall's, Walmart, and Target. JCPenny and Sears are also great places if you are looking for a specific item like a blazer or dress pants.

*Special thanks to Jeremy, UNS 201 PAL, for modeling.

Manicure and Pedicure

Oh the first day of spring! Not only is the first day of spring a shopping holiday for me, it's time for my first professional pedicure of the year. Now ladies, don't think that I walk around all winter with jacked up feet. Although I rarely polish my toes during the winter, I still keep my feet looking good with at home pedicures for FREE. The ladies at Bella Nails on Spring Garden St. (near UNC Greensboro) always keep my nails and toes looking good.

PEDICURE: Essence Magazine's April 2011 issue features the lovely Jennifer Hudson wearing the go-to color for the spring and summer and one of my favorite colors . . . BLUE (Go Duke Blue Devils!!):

 

Pedicure [$30]

Bella Nails, Spring Garden St, Greensboro, NC

MANICURE: For the past two years, I've been wearing gel nails on and off even though my natural nails are strong and and can get quite long without any protectant. The first brand I tried was Hand and Nail Harmony Gelish in a dark purple color. It lasted at least 3 weeks before it started peeling and chipping. Recently I tried CND Shellac in a neutral color. So far, I think I like the second brand best because it's similiar to what my nails looked like with gel, but with less damage to my nail and a lot cheaper:

Gel Nail Polish [$15]

This price is without a manicure, polish only

Bella Nails, Spring Garden St, Greensboro, NC

Work(2)Weekend

This post is a special request from Rhonda, one of my colleagues and good friends at UNC Greensboro. She is quite the fashionista, but refuses to allow me to feature her, so ladies that know Rhonda, please let her know we need her style on IMPR(4L)ess!

So it's the weekend and I know you just want to toss on a t-shirt and some jeans, but do you really have to look like you're headed to tailgate and/or cheer your team on in the big game?

Disclaimer - Sorry fellow Pirates, I don't own an ECU shirt but GO PIRATES! Purple! Gold!

 Of course not! Here are some simple looks that can be worn on casual Friday and into the weekend:

 My son Camden and I were styling in matching argyle print today!
No, this was not done purpose, LOL!

My Outfit: Michael Kors Sweater - Uptown Cheapskate [$4.20] Apostrophe Strech Belt - Sear's [$2.39] Old Navy (Diva Fit) Jeans -Plato's Closet [$9.99] Aerosole Brown Flat - Ross

Camden’s Outfit: Point Zero T-Shirt and Vest - Belk Old Navy Skinny Jeans [$10] Converse Chuck Taylor’s - TJMaxx [$19.99]

H&M T-Shirt - Goodwill [$3.75]

Ivory Vest - Rainbow
Apostrophe Strech Belt - Sear's [$2.39]

Faded Glory (Walmart) Jeggings [$12]

Simply Vera, Vera Wang (Kohl's) - Goodwill [$4]

Nine West Boot - Nine West Outlet [$19.99]

Coundown to Spring, Pt. 2: Selling and Giving

So now that my closet purge is done, what's next? Selling and Giving!

1. Consignment Stores - Cash for Clothes
I take my items to two consignment stores, Plato's Closet and Uptown Cheapskate. There are far more than these two in Greensboro, but these are the two stores that I frequent the most for buying and selling.

Plato's Closet

2310 Battleground Ave, Suite 116 Greensboro NC

Pays cash money for your items. Caters more to juniors, but I've been able to find Old Navy, Banana Republic, and The Limited on several occasions. This is a great place to shop for accessories, denim, and t-shirts.

I sold 12 items for [$27.17]

Uptown Cheapskate

2130-E New Garden Rd, Greensboro, NC

(Right off of Battleground Ave in the same shopping center as Carvel Ice Cream and Sprint)

You are given the option of cash or an in-store credit for your items. Of course,  I usually take the in-store credit because it's more and I know that I am going to eventually get something. Quite frequently, Uptown Cheapskate will have new items. I love the boutique atmosphere, it doesn't even seem like consignment shopping.

I sold 3 pairs of shoes and 4 items for [$13.75 in store credit] 

I was a bit disappointed with what they offered since a pair of my shoes were purchased for $30, regular retail price was $60 and I had only worn them a few times. But they hurt my feet, so was I really gonna hold on to them because they were cute? Uh-NO.

Tips

• Don't expect to get a full return on an item or even half of what you paid. The important thing is that it is out your closet and whatever you get can be used to purchase something new.
• Have patience. There were a few items that I was  unable to sell last summer that I held on to and were the first things to go this year.

2. Yard Sale - What you didn't sell on consignment
My mom and I are notorious for our yard sales. Whether we rent a booth at our hometown flea market or setup at my aunt's house on Highway 211, we have a yard sale at least 4-5 times a year. There is also a community in Carthage, NC that has a 5 mile flea market twice a year that we've purchased a booth for a few times. We typically sell our items for $5 or less. Last month my mom rented a boot for $8 at the flea market and earned over $100, you can't beat that.

3. Giving - What's Left

Most people only think about giving to Goodwill during the holidays and at the end of the year when we are all trying to find those final tax deductions. While I love to shop at Goodwill (and very appreciative for those who donate), I typically don't give to Goodwill. Here's why, Goodwill resells the items. Yes, I can afford to shop there, but someone in serious need, $3.75 could be spent on a meal rather than a shirt or pair of pants.

Instead, I give to Greensboro Urban Ministry, a local outreach organization that provides food, shelter and clothing to those in need. Greensboro Urban Ministry has certain days when people can come to their clothing bank and shop for items for FREE. My class and my office has also volunteered in the past, helping to organize and stock items in the food and clothing bank.

Greensboro Urban Ministry

305 West Lee St, Greensboro, NC

 Only 4 more days until the official first day of spring!

Countdown to Spring, Pt. 1: Closet Purge

It's been hard to think about spring with the sporadic days of warm weather followed by extreme cold temperatures here in NC. But with the official first day of spring next week (March 20th) it's time to start planning what staple items and trends need to be added to my spring wardrobe. I begin with the most difficult task for me, a closet purge. Here's my process and some tips to help you with your own purge:

1. Set aside at least 1-2 hours to complete this task. If it is really hard for you to let go of items, begin in small increments with all of your shirts, then all of your shoes, etc. Some people may need to break it down even more to all of your t-shirts, then cardigans, then sandals, etc. The most important thing is that you begin somewhere. If you get in the habit of doing a closet purge at least twice a year, you may not find it as overwhelming. I typically do a closet purge four times a year, as the seasons change.

2. Have a small laundry basket or small tote readily available so that items don't end up on the floor, in the corner, and ultimately back in your closet. I use two, one for items that I plan to get rid of and one for items that need alterations or repairs. I've recently started keeping a small basket in my closet to collect items in between purges.

3. I ask the following questions when determining whether or not to keep or toss an item:

• Have I worn the item in the last year or last season two seasons?
• It is still in style? Has it been in style in the past few years?
• Does it fit? Could it fit with minor alterations?
• Are alterations worth the cost to keep the item?
• Is it still in good condition?

If the answer is NO to any of the questions, it's time to let go of the item. After purging my closet here's what I removed to get rid of:

(Victoria Secret Convertible Dress, The Limited Print Skirt, 2 Black and White Full Skirts, Asos One Shoulder Blouse, NY&CO Black and White Blouse, Asos Tulip Shirt, NY&CO Paisly Blouse, 2 Miley Cyrus Blouses - Purple and Animal Print, Mossimo White Sweater, To the Max Black Dress, NY&CO Blue Shirt Dress, OP Black Jumper, Brown Faded Glory Leggings, St John's Bay Denim Shorts, New Directions Black Shorts, 2 Steve and Barry's Capri Pants - Black and White, Nine West Sandals, Fioni Wedges, NY&CO Red Dress, Apostrophe Knit Green Dress, Bisou Bisou Pink and Brown Dress, Rampage Black Patent Heels, Mossimo Patent Red Thong Sandal, Aerosole Black Leather Sandal, Guess Black Wedge Sandal, Purple T-Shirt with Scarf, Forever21 White Ruffle Blouse, London Time Black Knit Dress, Black and Red Pashma Scarf, 2 Belts - Black and Brown, Apostrophe Black Jacket, NY&Co Animal Print Cardigan, Covington 3/4 Sleeve Black Jacket, Junior Print Blouse)

I know, I know, this is a lot of stuff. You don't have to purge as much as I do. Like I said before, the most important thing is to start with just a few items. I am not at all attached to my clothes. And since most of my purchases are made on clearance or at thrift/consignment stores I know that I can get more clothes on my limited budget. Now shoes and purses are another thing! I am really surprised that 6 pairs of shoes made it to the items to get rid of basket. 4 pairs of shoes made it to the alterations/repair basket along with a couple of dresses that I plan to get re-hemmed for a different look:

Make sure to come back later this week for Countdown to Spring, Pt. 2: Selling and Giving  to find out what I do with all of this stuff.

Work(2)Weekend

It's casual Friday! Actually it's been casual week since UNC Greensboro is on spring break. Good thing for the students/faculty/staff who had an opportunity to get away because it has been cold and rainy. I am so ready to put the rest of my winter clothes away, but until the weather warms up I'm getting the last few wears out of my sweaters.

Here's an outfit that can easily be transformed from work to drinks with friends after 5 p.m. If you don't want to wear pumps to work, a black flat or wedge would also look great. I searched and searched for my red lipstick for Picture 2 but opted for this red purse, either one or both could give you that "It's the weekend! look.

Picture 1:

New Directions Sweater - Belk

George Elbow Sleeve T-Shirt - Walmart [$5]

Apostrophe Stretch Belt - Sears [$1.49]

Old Navy (Diva Fit) Jeans - Plato's Closet [$9.99]

Nine West Pumps - Steinmart [$48]



Picture 2:

George Elbow Sleeve T-Shirt - Walmart [$5]

NY&CO Faux Leather Jacket [$9.99]

Old Navy (Diva Fit) Jeans - Plato's Closet [$9.99]

Nine West Pumps - Steinmart [$48]

Red Purse - Goodwill [$1]

Jeweled Ring - Flea Market [$3]

Miss Tina for Walmart . . .

has finally arrived in my local Walmart in Greensboro, NC!! This weekend I was supposed to be just in and out of Walmart picking up something for dinner. I was so excited to find some of the items that were featured in the February issue of Essence Magazine and in my original post about Miss Tina for Walmart.

Everything in the Spring 2011 line is just $18 and under! All of Miss Tina's Spring 2011 line can be found on Miss Tina by Tina Knowles. Unfortunately, Miss Tina is only in limited Walmart's and not every item featured on the website is available in the two stores in my area that carry the line. I loved the Printed Drape Dress Toccarra is wearing above until I tried it on, it's cute but not for me with all these hips. Fortunately, the same print was in an Elastic Waist Tunic. Here are my Miss Tina finds that I've purchased so far (didn't want to spend all of my March shopping budget this early in the month):

Miss Tina Elastic Waist Print Tunic - Walmart [$12]

Old Navy (Diva Fit) Jeans - Plato's Closet [$9.99]

Faded Glory Black Leggings - Walmart [$5.50]

NY&CO Faux Leather Jacket [$9.99]

Express Red Beads - Plato's Closet [$2]

Express Pendent Necklace - Rugged Warehouse [$1.99]

H&M Wide Red Belt [$5.99]

Miss Tina Red Woven Snap Front Shirt - Walmart [$15]

Faded Glory Jeggings - Walmart [$12]

The Limited (Drew Fit) Bootleg Pants - Carolina Thrift [$1.99]

Nine West Sandal - Nine West Outlet [$15]

Brown Belt and Bangles - Forever 21

It's Polka Dot Day!



I am so loving Fab Find's Under 50 March Outfit Inspiration Calendar. Could it be because I'm truly inspired or because a lot of the items featured are in my closet? Today's inspiration is also an Everybody, Everywear challenge. Check out my Polka Dots:

Apostrophe Polka Dot Zippered Tank- Sears [$3.19 ]

George (Walmart) 3/4 Sleeve Cardigan - Goodwill [$3.75]

Black Knit Belt - borrowed from a skirt

Bead necklace and earrings - a few years old 

Life Stride BlackWedge Flats - Belk

NY&Co Knit Pants

1 Scarf, 3 Looks

I absolutely love scarves!! They add color and personality to any outfit and take casual looks to another level. I have scarves in all shapes, sizes, colors, and prints, but my favorites have at least two or three colors and can be worn with multiple outfits. I found this spring multi-colored scarf (and a few others) at Rainbow for only $6.99 or 2 for $10.

3/7 Spring Colors

Fab Finds Under $50: March Outfit Inspiration Calendar



Picture 1: Apostrophe Coral Knit Dress - Goodwill [$5]

Apostrophe Sandals - Sears [$9.99]

Apostrophe Cardigan - [$3.83]

Apostrophe Black Stretch Belt - Sears $24 [$1.49]

Picture2: NY&CO Lavendar Knit Dress - NY&CO (a few years ago)

Apostrophe Cardigan - [$3.83]

Apostrophe Black Stretch Belt - Sears $24 [$1.49]

Nine West Platform Pump - Steinmart [$48}

Picture 3: Mossimo Tank - Target

George (Walmart) 3/4 Sleeve Cardigan - Goodwill [$3.75]

GAP Dark Denim Jeans - [Gift]

Life Stride Black Wedge Flat - Belk

Goodwill: Find of the Week

Grace Elements (Belk) Sweater - Goodwill [$3.75]

People are always surprised when they compliment me on an outfit and I share with them that I got it from Goodwill. The first question they always ask is, "Which one do you go to?" Well, any one of them. It just depends on the day, how much time I have, and how far I'm willing to drive. I even try to find a Goodwill when I'm out of town. The Goodwill closest to my house just closed for the opening of the newest Goodwill in Greensboro on N. Elm St. I did a drive by yesterday and the building looks almost complete for it's spring grand opening (of course I will let you know as soon as I find out). The next question is almost always, "How often do you go?" I try to go at least (actually at most) once a week.

Here are some tips (that I really don't use, but just to get you started):

·       Have an idea of what you are looking for, whether it's a blouse, a dress, or pants.

·       Color is also important since most Goodwills are organized by item and color.

·       Take your time, I know it may be overwhelming but plan to spend at least one hour just browsing.

·       Try things on, don't just assume that something is your size since sizing tends to change every year.

·       Check and check again for stains, tears, funny smells, or anything that might make you toss the item once you get it home.

B(4)&After

I've never worn much makeup. First of all, I wasn't allowed to wear makeup until I was 16 years old and by then I was over it. Most days I'm barely making it out of the house on time so taking an additional 5 or 10 minutes to put on foundation, eyeshadow, mascara, or lipstick is not an option. My alternative to wearing makeup is to get my eyebrows waxed at least once a month. I think it instantly wakes up my face and creates a groomed luck. I had a minor mishap in January when I let a new person do my eyebrows  after my regular person changed nail salons yet again (Never Again). After about six weeks of letting my brows grow out, Kasey at Bella Nails on Spring Garden St. assured me that she would do a great job. I like to keep my brows a little thick and natural (kinda like Beyonce). The results . . . she did a great job for only $10!!

Beyonce - My Eyebrow Inspiration

Fab Finds Under $50: March Outfit Inspiration Calendar

"Standing in front of the closet wondering what in the heck to wear? Take a look at the the March Outfit Inspiration Calendar. Hopefully it will help inspire a look"

Fab Finds Under $50: March Outfit Inspiration Calendar

I stalked this blog for some time while deciding whether or not I wanted to start my own fashion/style blog. I love that Kimberly isn't afraid to take chances with color combinations and mixing prints; she is always fly! Here's my first outfit from the March Outfit Inspiration Calendar:



3/2 - Bow Tie Blouse

Old Navy Bow Tie Blouse - Plato's Closet [$1.50]

Faded Glory Cardigan - Walmart [a few years ago]

The Limited Pants - Carolina Thrift [$1.99]

Nine West Flat - Nine West Outlet [$15]

Merona (Target) Chain Belt $12.99 - Goodwill [$4.99]

Winter(2)Spring: Tights

Kyra, a graduate student in the Counseling and Educational Development program at UNC Greensboro and graduate assistant in my former office has been my tights inspiration this winter. Here are a few tights she's worn in the past couple of weeks, but she has tights in various colors, textures, and prints. What I love about tights is that they add character and personal style to any outfit and as the temperature begins to warm up, tights can be taken from winter to spring when paired with a dress, skirt, or even shorts (I have yet to try this because I only own knee length shorts).

Here's a few pairs of tights that I've added to my wardrobe recently (purchased on clearance of course):

Picture 1: Old Navy  [$5]

Picture 2: Old Navy [$5]

Picture 3: Hanes - Belk [$2.39]

 Note: Goodwill on Battleground Ave often has new merchandise from Target. Last night they had two huge bins of purple and black tights for only $1 if you just want to try out this look without committing to more expensive tights.