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about, the truth about motherhood, motherhood, parenting, Deborah Cruz, the truth, How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordstroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school, The Truth about Motherhood, Latina mom, Chicago,baby, pregnancy, conception, family travel, teen, parenting, Deborah Cruz, the truth, Disney

Do you dream of a high fashion wardrobe but you don’t have a trendy label fashion budget? I love clothes and so do my girls and (shhh) even the Big Guy. Fashion is our passion after travel and equal to food. We love nice clothes that feel good, wear well and look good on us. My favorite clothes are the ones that are made so well that you feel naked when you wear them. Not too bulky. Not too tight. No gross cheapy fabrics that hang weird. I want clothes that fit and move with my body and look and feel good on me. When I learned to shop smart, it elevated my fashion game to a whole new level.

My current wardrobe is pretty amazing. I’ve been a “clothes whore” since it was “clothes horse”. That’s how long I’ve been addicted to fashion. I got my first job just for that specific reason, to buy myself a trendy fashion wardrobe. But, full disclosure, I’m also pretty budget-conscious. What can I say, I grew up poor and as much as I love the good life and nice things, spending money on myself isn’t something that I think I will ever be comfortable with.

Now, before you go thinking I’m cheap. I’m not. But I am very aware and I love a good sale. I don’t love a sale for the sake of a sale. I know people like that. No, I don’t have a stock room full of Rag and Bone Jeans or Free People dresses because they were on sale for half off. I don’t hoard clothes the way Mama June hoards toilet paper. I only like to spend money on things I want and to some degree need. And unfortunately, I couldn’t wear a stock room full of jeans in a lifetime.

READ ALSO: Fashion Police, please

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

I realized a long time ago that it makes more sense to spend $150 on a good pair of jeans that I’ll wear every day than a $25 on a pair of jeans that I will never wear. In one case, I’ve wasted $25. In the other case, I’ve gotten every bit of $150 of use out of those jeans. This is how I approach shopping. I am in it for the long game most days. I look at a good piece of fashion as an investment.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

There definitely is a difference in higher quality products versus lesser quality ones. You definitely get what you pay for unless you shop wisely. I’ll be honest, I want $500 quality for $100 so I shop like it’s my job.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

If you want to take your wardrobe from Target and Kohls to Nordstrom and Macy’s or even to Louis Vuitton and Burberry, these tricks work to get you the fashion wardrobe that you want and deserve. Believe me when I tell you, once you go quality fashion over trendy chic ( though, I still do love Primark, Zara and Target for cute trendy pieces for myself and the girls) you will never go back. It’s like trying to go back to a PC after using Mac. It’s just too impossible to do. You can’t unknow the good life.

Here are my tips for owning an amazing, high-quality fashion wardrobe on a budget that will last forever and fit like they were made for your body.

  1. How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-schoolShop your favorite brands when they are on sale.

Fashion seasons don’t match up with actual seasons. So don’t worry about being out of style. By the time the average person is buying their swimsuits, the fashion industry is marking it down because it’s already out of season. Fashion has to be ahead of the curve, you do not. For example, the day after the 4th of July, you can find crazy sales on bathing suits and summer clothing. If you live in the Midwest, like me, you know summer doesn’t really start until July anyway.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

2. Christmas in July.

All the Big brands have Christmas in July sales and the sales are amazing. With a little planning, you can save a ton on everything from half price appliances, to hot tubs and especially fashion.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

3.Nordstroms Annual Sale

It’s everything you want, on sale. All the name brands that your heart desires. You just have to be patient. Building an amazing wardrobe is a long game.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

4.Macy’s Stackable Sales

Ok, Macy’s lets you stack sales up to 5, I believe. So does Kohls for that matter ( if you are thinking back-to-school for the kids). Also, in case you weren’t aware, there are constantly sales going on at Macy’s. Like constantly. I am a Free People junkie. I will freely admit that I am obsessed with their products. I have gotten great deals where I have paid less than half.

  1. Prime Day

Not sure that you are going to find crazy couture on Prime Day but whatever you find will be a steal and even if it’s just a few really good quality pieces, a deal is a deal and that’s money to be spent on something else. For instance, I’ve been eyeballing a pair of Stella McCartney shoes. While the shoes are most likely not on a Prime Day sale, maybe something else is and that extra saved money can go towards my Stellas.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

6.Back-to-School

When it’s back-to-school time, everybody is shopping for their children but guess what? Sales are not just restricted to your children. College-aged people go “back-to-school” too and they are full human sized. Get your sale on. Everything is on sale. Go take advantage.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

7. Outlet Malls

Not all outlet malls are created equal. You need to find yourself a good fashion outlet mall. I have a couple favorites. I’ve scored some crazy deals on Burberry and Kate Spade at these malls. You just have to go there with an open mind.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

8. Shop the Sales Rooms and Racks at your favorite high-end stores.

One of my absolute favorite stores to shop at is Von Maur and they have amazing sales. Eventually, everything ends up on the sale rack and they do 3 markdowns and being that I’ve been a loyal customer for over a decade, I know the days they do first markdowns and subsequent markdowns. Plus, they have absolutely the best customer service, no interest, free shipping and gift wrapping. They are heaven to my budget friendly high fashion wardrobe heart. Did I mention they have an entire room for markdown shoes? Also, FYI, places like Intermix and Anthropologie also have great sales racks. You just have to be willing to take the time to search for them. You may be thinking, that sounds like so much work and I don’t have the time. I get that. I really do but what if you could find a Burberry bag for $100 that is normally $800. Is it worth it then?

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

9. Try it before You make a Huge Investment

Last but not least, if you want something trendy and you are not sure it’s “your style” but you want to try it, by all means, hit up your local Target, H&M, Zara or Primark. The prices are definitely affordable, the clothes are cute and you get a big bang for your buck. The thing is don’t expect Burberry quality at Target prices. Though, I highly recommend checking out the Target special collaborations whenever they are available. It’s a great way to dip your toe into high fashion without high fashion prices.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

10. Consignment

It is not a dirty word. I am not telling you to go to Good Will and find yourself some couture. Though, depending on where you live, that may be an option. Where I live, in the burbs, it is not. But if you are are in Chicago, NYC or L.A. gently used high fashion at a bargain basement price may not be a bad thing. In fact, in my mind, that would make you the winner, winner chicken dinner. Hell, you may even have money left to buy yourself some groceries.

There are sites like ThreadUp that can help you get that high fashion wardrobe that you covet on a reality-based mom’s budget. My favorite non-traditional ways to shop is via my favorite fashion bloggers. Look, I’m aware that some influencers might promote items because they are being paid to but honestly, I don’t care. I care about how it looks, how it fits and what it cost.

One of my absolute favorite fashion bloggers, Paola Alberdi of Blank Itinerary, always features a swipe up feature on her outfits on Instagram and not only does she share the brands she is wearing, she shares ” for less”  copy this look styles. Occasionally, if she is going to get rid of something she no longer uses, she will offer it up at a huge discount to her fans.

To be honest, you can have the fashion wardrobe that you’ve always wanted on a budget, you just have to be willing to plan and check often. It won’t be a Target budget but it’ll be worth it. You just have to decide how much you want a piece and figure out the best way to get it at an affordable price.

READ ALSO: Honey, where did all the Toilet Paper Go?

I know there are women who know how to coupon like it’s their job. They have mastered the art of saving money on food and household goods. I wish I could. I hate paying for toilet paper. But, as it stands, I can’t even remember to present the coupons…that I picked off the product…in the store to the cashier.

But, I can sniff out a Kate Spade bag on final markdown like a drug-seeking German shepherd at the airport. This is my gift and I am teaching my girls the same. Why pay full price when you can get whatever you want on sale? That’s the key…what.you.want! Life is too short to put up with uncomfortable fashion to save a few bucks and, repeat after me, every woman deserves a Louis Vuitton. And believe me, it all goes on sale. You just have to want it, look for it and be patient.

What are your secrets for how to get a high fashion wardrobe on a budget?

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Fashion Haul Friday, Fashion, shopping, sales, styling, dress, moms, apparell

Fashion Haul Friday ~ This week’s Fashion Haul Friday is Boho Chic, which is( if you are not familiar with the term) a fashion trend that is pairing vintage styles ( hippie and bohemian) with more modern simplistic fashion. Boho chic combines organic, colorful, detailed, folk-inspired pieces with simple, modern pieces. For this Fashion Friday, I went to my closet and found a couple of my favorite pieces that any Mommy can pull off. The best thing about boho chic is not only is it super cute, it is usually as comfortable as any yoga pants and t-shirt that I you might have been wearing otherwise. Here is my first Fashion Haul Friday vlog! Sorry if it looks CRAZY…it was filmed on my iPhone with the forward facing camera feature.

Fashion Haul Friday ~Boho Chic

The fashion haul pieces are as follow, available at your local Macys and DSW!

Fashion Haul, fashion haul, boho chic, NYC, INC, dresses, Macys, Paris

Fashion Haul Dress from Macys

  • INC from Macy’s
  • 100% Silk shell
  • Rayon lining
  • Shades of Pink, Black, Grey

Fashion Haul, fashion haul, boho chic, NYC, INC, dresses, Macys, Paris

 For Day time look pair with ballet flats or a hot pair of  to the knee black leather boots.

Fashion Haul, fashion, haul, boho chic, NYC, shoes, boots, Steve Madden, DSW

To Transition to night time, I would  go to a just over the knee black leather heeled boot or a hot pair of platform heels. If you are going to be out on the town, platform heels seem to be a lot more comfortable than traditional 5 inch heels and let’s face it, pumps would look ridiculous with this dress…especially at night!

Fashion Haul, fashion haul, boho chic, NYC, Steve Madden, shoes, high heels, platforms, DSW,MAcys

This is my Fashion Haul Friday outfit for this week.  I hope that you will join me and link up with your latest fashion haul Friday finds. It can be a wish item, something you just bought or something you are going to get. Here is the linky. All you need to do is add my button to your post ( next week there will be a specific one for Fashion Haul Friday) and link up! Can’t wait to see what fashion items you have to share. Also, I’ve got some great reviews , giveaways and discount codes on the horizon for Fashion Haul Friday so stayed tuned.  Oh yeah and one more fashion haul find…

Fashion Haul, fashion, haul, lingerie, NYC, Missoni, Target,

I found MISSONI at Target. Apparently, all those people who waited overnight and camped out for Missoni and blew up the Target site the day it came out, were doing it so they could sell it on Ebay and price gouge. The people refused to be gouged and now it has been returned and there is a load of it at most Targets…marked down by at least 30%. I’ve bought like 4 pieces. Go get yourself some…fast.


And one more hot fashion haul Friday tip..H&M has VERSACE. It’s like $249.00 for a dress and totally out of my budget (especially during the holidays) but for Versace…it’s a steal! Happy Fashion Haul Friday!

Fashion Haul Friday @ The TRUTH about Motherhood

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Green Fashion, fashion, sponsored post

Green Fashion, fashion, sponsored post

Have you ever considered green fashion? We’re used to hearing about how we can contribute towards a greener world by cutting down on our energy usage in the home, taking the bike to work and choosing local produce where possible but there are other ways to make the world a better place and it just might start in your closet. New energy providers are taking on the larger utility companies to give us cheaper deals, and a variety of green energy plans allow us to choose whether we want our electricity sourced wholly or partially from renewable sources, while supermarkets are increasingly embracing organic products and workplaces continue to set up schemes to motivate employees out of their cars.

But what about when it comes to fashion? We women love our fashion. Believe me, when I was a vegetarian for those 10 years, I was sad by my lack of cute shoes available to me that were animal friendly.This is an arena in which we are less used to hearing the benefits of going green. Yet there are some very real concerns when it comes to sustainability and eco-credentials in the fashion world. From the pesticides used in growing the raw materials to the chemicals used in manufacturing our garments, fashion is not always as natural and ethically conscious as we might be led to believe.  There is a reason that they say you should wash all of the clothes you buy before wearing them. The chemicals that some clothing is treated with can cause very real skin reactions. Then there are the livelihoods of the individuals producing our clothes to consider and the wider communities and environments in which they live. We take a look at the top green fashion trends which are starting to change the status quo.

Green Fashion is Becoming Mainstream

Environmentally conscious fashion is no longer the preserve of niche designers and hippie outlets. As designers become more aware of the power of going green and build ecological principles into their brand image, eco-credentials are becoming the norm. From sourcing materials locally to committing to zero waste, a growing number of designers are taking steps to combine the worlds of high end fashion and sustainability.

Green Fashion brings with it a Transparent Supply Chain

It used to be that consumers had no idea where their clothes came from, other than the country, or in what conditions they were produced. But in recent years there have been a spate of protests surrounding foreign factories and working conditions, not to mention shocking findings about carbon dioxide emissions, water pollution and waste disposal. The result? A growing number of consumers are swapping cheap products bought with a blind eye to their environmental cost to ethically produced garments that come with a clear supply chain. It is now far easier for consumers to find information on all aspects of clothing manufacture and many are choosing to do their research first.

Designers are Innovating

Along with the quest for environmentally-friendly raw materials and manufacturing processes is a desire to innovate and excel in design. This applies as much today, if not more, as it ever has. Technological wizardry when it comes to fabric manufacture doesn’t have to come at the expense of green credentials, however. On the contrary, it often goes hand in hand – for example, in the quest for carbon-neutral thread or high-yield organic cotton production.

Green Fashion is Upcycling at it’s Finest

Upcycling has been a buzzword for some years now and it shows no signs of dissipating. Mainstream designers are latching on to our desire to re-use, repurpose and recycle with increasing awareness. Expect vintage gowns, shabby chic and pre-loved fabrics, but with less grunge and more edge. All this goes alongside a desire to rediscover traditional crafts and skills, with the use of traditional crafting machinery like a Floor Loom. Myself, I have always loved vintage clothing. Aside from the fact that it is better for the environment to reuse materials, there is something really cool about wearing clothing that has a story to tell.

What are your thoughts on the Green Fashion Movement?

This is a sponsored post on Green Fashion but all opinions are my own.

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wine, fashion, shit wine drinkers say

Wine, Fashion Haul Friday, Fashion Friday, Fashionable drinks

Wine & Fashion go together like Love and Marriage

Wine Drinkers and Winners ~First, I’d like to say thank you to all of you who entered the Karen Kane $100 Gift Certificate giveaway. It was a great success and the winner is Anna Pry! Congratulations Anna! There is so many beuatiful pieces to choose from, I’m sure the hardest part will be trying to decide which one to use your gift certificate on.

If you didn’t win, I am sorry but remember Karen Kane has extended a 25% discount for all of The TRUTH about Motherhood readers; good from January 13, 2012 to February 13,2012. Just use the promo code TRUTHFULMOMMY! You know you want to.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

I have been sick all week and, as such, have not had a chance to get my fashion on. Sure, I could have just  pulled an amazing outfit off  of Polyvore.com or Pinterest but I like to have hands on experience with the pieces before I tell you to love them. So, in lieu of fashion this week, I am sharing with you something that is always in fashion..WINE and the Shit Wine Drinkers Say. Besides, when you are holding a glass of wine in your hand, don’t people just look infinitely cooler? I think it’s the wine goggles. This video is Soooooooooo Good!

Shit Wine Drinkers Say

I think we should all pass this post around #wineparty tonight so that everyone can get a good chuckle. I promise, “Not that I’m a wine snob” but this video is spot on.

Wine is always in Fashion

*Remember, here at The TRUTH about Motherhood I love my wine but I don’t advocate dangerous behaviors such as texting while driving ,texting while drinking, driving while drinking, dressing little girls like hookers, or playing with rabid dogs. So be cool, stay in school, drink your wine after the kids go to bed and not while driving.[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

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Fashion has never been an easy field for normal people to master. I love fashion but I feel that it’s very personal. My own personal style is all over the place. I don’t like to be boxed in or labeled in life and certainly not in my fashion choices. My outfits really depend on where I’m going, what I’m doing and, yes, how I’m feeling.

There are professionals who dedicate their entire lives to knowing what to wear and how to dress different body types, sizes and shapes. More than that, they know how to dress different personalities to feel empowered and comfortable in their own skin, turning heads while doing it. That’s not just a skill, that’s an art form. One that I’d like some guidance and appreciation for.

READ ALSO: Fall Beauty Tricks

Obviously, we don’t all have time to focus all of our energy on knowing the ins and outs of fashion and make-up. While I do love playing with both. My God people, I’ve got kids and a job and working out and cooking and cleaning to do. Let’s be honest, I want to live my life. I don’t want to overthink the little things like what I’m wearing. Thank goodness for professionals. While it wouldn’t hurt if we all knew the basics of fashion and what looks good and fits best for our body, we can do better for ourselves, especially with a little professional help.

Here are some Fashion and Style Tips from the Pros online

Makeup

Makeup is one of the hardest parts of a beauty routine. It can be very easy to do things that make you look out of place or a little bit strange, and a lot of people put huge amounts of time into getting their make-up look just right. Nobody wants to look like a clown. One of the most crucial elements of this is the colors and shades you choose. Natural looks are easier to achieve than those designed to make you stand out. With this in mind, you should be choosing options that match your skin tone, while also complementing the color of your eyes and hair. This will put you on the right track with your makeup and is a method used by makeup artists all over the world to get the right look for their clients.

READ ALSO: How to have a Quality Fashion Wardrobe on a Budget

Of course, makeup is more complicated than buying the best products. You have to know how to put it on. Applying make-up can be challenging and this is where most people stumble the hardest. Thankfully, there are a lot of guides around the web that can help you with this. Bottom line is that you can do amazing things with make-up with some simple research on the web and lots and lots of practice. Believe me, my girls can contour and do eyebrows like a boss just from watching hours of Youtube Beauty Vloggers.

Colors

Know your colors. Color is the next challenge you’re going to come up against, with the hues and shades of your garments, accessories, and makeup all working together to form a unified look. Everyone will have their own preferences when it comes to color, and it makes sense that you would want to wear your favorites.

READ ALSO: Tarte Sugar Rush Collection is Adorable and Affordable

There are lots of things to consider that can factor into this equation like the color of your hair, eyes, and skin playing important roles. If you like bright colors but struggle to pull them off because of the tone of your skin, for example, it could be worth looking for ways to incorporate them as accents, rather than the main parts of each outfit. There are loads of guides around the web which can help you to choose the right colors for your clothing.

fashion, make-up. beauty, pro style tips, pro fashion tips

Keep It Simple

It’s easy to find yourself layering up beyond reason when you’re struggling to figure out a style that works for you, and a lot of people overdo it with their clothing. Nothing speaks louder than something simple, though, and this gives you an excellent route to go down when deciding on your styles. For example, if you’re able to find a dress or blouse you really like, you should use your other pieces to draw attention to the main garment. Simple necklaces will draw people’s eyes to the neckline while surrounding a skirt with basic shoes and a shirt will make people notice the skirt most of all.

Let History Guide You

People have been putting a lot of time and effort into fashion for a very long time. In fact, in some countries, this has become a source of national pride, and there is a rich history when it comes to the clothing people choose to wear. You can use the past as a resource, giving you the chance to draw inspiration from those who have dedicated their lives to fashion. Vintage and retro clothing is always popular and is a great way to create a unique, timeless look.

READ ALSO: Why Primark is the Best Place to Shop with Teenagers

These are just a few tips I’ve gathered from researching the web and years of being a woman in the world. The bottom line, do what makes you feel beautiful. Don’t worry about trends or what other people think, if it feels good on your body and it fits, wear it. The only person whose opinion accounts is your own.

What’s your best fashion and beauty tip for busy women who want to look and feel beautiful but not spend all day worrying about it?

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There is nothing quite as sobering as walking around a “fashion” mall after having children. Instantly, I am aware that since having my children, my body has shifted and contorted in ways that no longer allow “fashion” to fit me the way it used to ~ the way it’s supposed to…the way in which it would actually look “fashionable”. No, instead I end up looking like a sausage in an ill fitted casing..in silk bloomers. Let’s just call it what it really is #Fashionfail.

Next, I realize that since having my girls, I don’t actually have any extra money lying around to afford high “fashion”. Hell, I can’t even afford a low fashion makeover. Well, that is NOT entirely true. I can afford it. Or I could, if all my assets were fluid and not tied up in, oh I don’t know, private school tuition, ballet, soccer, headbands, tutus, kids concerts, enough toys to fill  my very own Toys R Us, organic food, $8 gallons of milk, doctors, dentists, clothing and shoes for said children.It’s like a gave birth to two of the most adorable little money pits on the face of the earth. I give willingly but at times, like my visit to the “fashion” mall, I am slapped across the face with my sacrifices.

Finally, I try to just give in and let myself visit a place I’ve not been in many years..you know what I’m talking about. That place in your mind where you gingerly ( as if I’ve been able to gingerly do anything since having kids) linger over beautiful clothes, outfitting yourself in your head. Perusing books and art. Fingering the purses and admiring the shine of some audaciously over priced piece of silver jewelry. You know, something  oh so Bo-Ho chic.Trying on multiple pairs of lovely shoes in every possible style, color and heel height available. You remember, pull back ..way back, into the recesses of your mind…shopping. Ahhhh, exhale.Isn’t it absolutely fabulous? I used to be that woman who would shop all day long, until I found the perfect ensemble. The perfect piece of jewelry. The perfect heel. I thrived there, between the racks and amongst the other shoppers.So, when I walked into Anthropologie ( already devastated at my state of affairs) you can imagine the deflated feeling that overcame me when the moment I eyeballed something of splendor…my 3 year old began to whine. The Big Guy heavily sighed in aggravation and my 5 year old said, “I want to go someplace else!” Apparently, I am not even allowed the simple courtesy of being able to window shop in peace. They have taken one of my most sacred past times and turned it to shit….in a matter of minutes.

I left thinking, forget the fashion mall, who needs a $300 shirt anyways? Nobody NEEDS it but damn it, what I wouldn’t give to have the option to decide of my own volition if I even wanted to buy the damn thing.On most days, I LOVE my girls so much that I can’t stand it. But after the trip to the “fashion” mall, I can’t decide if I’m excited for them to be teenagers and enjoy “shopping” with me (of course, then I still won’t be able to shop because again I will be buying everything for them) or perhaps, I am excited for them to be excited to shop so that I can return the favor and NOT let them enjoy their shopping experience. Turn about has to be fair play in motherhood, right? I mean, my mom wished  on me a child exactly like me and I got two. The least I can do is dole out some karma, right? Isn’t that my Mommy duty?

 

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vintage shopping, crushworthy moms, fashionhunters, Alison Kleinert, Karina Lepiner, BRavo

Vintage shopping,Crushworthymoms,Alison Kleinert, Fashion Haul Friday, Fashion Friday, Fashionable drinks

Vintage Shopping

Vintage Shopping with the most Crushworthy moms ~Today, I am honored to have the very awesome and super fabulous Fashionistas, Alison  and Karina (She turned this into a job by working at Second Time Around and starring in Bravo’s “Fashion Hunters”) of CrushworthyMoms.com guest posting on Fashion Friday.  You are in for a treat if you aren’t already familiar with these ladies. Alison and Karina are super fashionable, totally crushworthy and just happen to be vintage shopping queens. This is something that I have been wanting to learn how to do, as I am obsessed with Zooey Deschanel’s wardrobe on the New Girl but ‘m not a time traveler, nor do I have the budget of Zooey Deschanel’s costume designer. I do, however, have a few pieces of vintage royalty of my mom’s that I have rescued ( on more than one occasion) from ending up at the Goodwill and I want more. Lot’s more. Luckily for me, I have a gal ( or two) who is an expert, Alison and Karina. This is a new way to shop. It’s green, it’s affordable and it’s a good way to have a unique look and a one of a kind style. I’ll let Alison  and Karina explain, they’re the experts. Go check them out at Crushworthymoms.com and for great conversation you can find Alison and Karina, tweeting @Crushworthymoms.

Vintage Shopping,Crushworthymoms.com, Alison Kleinert,Karina Lepiner, Fashion Hunters, Second time around

Crushworthy Moms take us Vintage Shopping

Let us introduce ourselves, we are Alison and Karina of Crushworthymoms and we have a confession.  We are addicted to shopping at consignment stores.  So addicted in fact that we both work at STA (Second Time Around) in Manhattan to support our habit and get first dibs at the merchandise.  Karina even starred in Bravo’s Fashion Hunters, a show that is about consignment shopping and the art of the hunt.  We get a rush combing the racks in the hopes of finding that perfect piece that our wardrobe is missing.

So when @Truthfulmommy asked us to do a fashion post (Oh all right, we asked to do a fashion post!) we wanted to make sure we had her style just right.  So when she showed her appreciation for the style of Jess (Zooey Deschanel) from Fox’s New Girl, we knew we could incorporate our love of consignment shopping to find the perfect Jess-inspired outfits for our post.

When you shop consignment you have to go into the store with an open mind and have the time to go through each piece of clothing.  It is all about patience and enjoying the hunt.  You might find a one of a kind piece that you might never have thought you would have liked.  Your clothes should make you stand out not blend in and look like everyone else.  Your clothes should be a reflection of your personality and that is why people are so enamored with Jess’s style beause she wears what she loves.  I guarantee you will find your favorite pieces in a consignment store because they will be conversation starters and not just clothes you bought in a department store.

Now on to the clothes (Disclaimer-We shopped at STA’s annual 50% off sale-Prices were extra LOW):

How can you dress like Jess or Zooey?

Just add a bow to your outfit!

vintage shopping, fashion hunters, second time around, Karina Lepiner, Alison Kleinert

Shoes by Marc Jacob $35

Shirt by Misty $25

Jess’s Day to Evening Look

vinatge shopping, fashion hunters, Karina Lepiner, Alison Kleinert, Crushworthy Moms

 Striped dress by Alice and Olivia $85

Marc Jacobs jacket $35

Trina Turk star dress $35

 Green Manolo Blahnik $100

Yellow Dolce and Gabbana $45

Jess’s Evening Look

vintage shopping, crushworthy moms, fashionhunters, Alison Kleinert, Karina Lepiner, BRavo

Jacket by DVF $125

Sparkly dress by Robert Rodriguez $100

Green bow dress by Zac Posen $375

Gold boots by United Nude $60

Silver heels by Sergio Rossi $110

Vintage Shopping at consignment shops is an art form, as shown by the finds Alison and Karina shared here. Thanks so much for guest posting and sharing your skills, ladies.  Lesson #1, you can’t be afraid to get a little dirty and invest a little time into your vintage shopping excursions. I can’t wait to hit my local vintage shop and see what gems in the rough I find from a time gone by. Seems like with a little effort, you can find a treasure trove of vintage shopping gold!

 Vintage Shopping at it’s Best

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why luxury fashion is an investment

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Spending money is something I take very seriously. I’m not cheap by any means but I know how hard it is to earn money and I know what it feels like to not have it so I’m frugal. I don’t deprive myself but if I buy something it has to be worth it to me…in some way. I don’t believe in waiting for special occasions so I want to invest in things I can appreciate every day and I want to appreciate every day like it’s the last day.

I’m don’t usually shop at Walmart or Target for clothes, shoes or handbags for myself (though on occasion I have found some cute, quality items) but as I’ve grown older, I’ve learned to differentiate between quality made and disposable fashion. I know the difference between throwing my money away and making an investment and I’m here to tell you that an investment in your overall happiness and quality of life is just as important as investing in a good piece of jewelry or property.

Today you can find clothes, shoes, handbags and watches ranging from a few tens of dollars to hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on if it’s an original piece of couture by Dior, a high-end luxury piece off the rack like Zimmerman, a midrange dupe by a less expensive designer like Steve Madden, fast fashion like Primark or a mega mass-produced copy of a dupe sold on Shein.  You choose your own fashion adventure but keep in mind, that not all products are created equal but they all have their place. Most people own reasonably priced pieces with a few luxury pieces interspersed within their wardrobe.  Owning luxury items is not easily accessible to everyone and to be honest, not everyone cares about the brand name. 

But thanks to many amazing brands, you can still have a quality fashion wardrobe on a budget if you are an intelligent and patient buyer without always paying the highest price. For example, just look at the GMT Master II guide. But the question remains: why buy a luxury item, when you can get it for less? Here are some valid reasons to wear a luxury watch! 

1. To be at the forefront of technology 

When we talk about being at the cutting edge of technology in the watchmaking sector, some will quickly think of the famous Apple Watch. Yet the largest watches are a thousand times more complex.  Owning a luxury watch means having years of innovation, research and testing on your wrist, each more complex than the next.  In short, wearing a luxury watch means having an object designed and built down to the last detail, thanks to decades of know-how.  The big brands carry out all the stages of production: from the casting of gold alloys to the assembly of the movement elements, the case, the dial and the bracelet, including machining and finishing. It is a sign of the times, and a sign of fashion. 

2. For social status

Wearing a luxury watch is an indescribable feeling. A feeling of confidence, exclusivity, specialness which can only be found with the biggest brands. This is valid for you, but also for others. Your high-end watch is more than just a watch. It is a symbol. It says to the world that you belong in all the rooms. When you wear luxury fashion you know who you are and it shows.

3. For the universe that goes with it 

Having a luxury watch on your wrist encompasses a whole universe. You don’t just walk into a Rolex store. You enter the world of the brand. Specific smells, watches displayed in a certain way and salesmen dressed in costumes. It’s an experience. In addition, the greatest watch models have a unique history.  The Rolex Submariner for example highlights its crossing of the Atlantic. Omega’s Speedmaster and his conquest of the moon. These watches do more than carry a story: they feed the legend. 

4. For an irreproachable quality

The precision of assembling a luxury watch is comparable to that it takes to plan the trajectory of an earth-moon rocket. In other words, surgical precision. Wearing a luxury watch means having all risk insurance on your wrist. You have gone away for several decades with your timepiece, if not several generations. To give you an idea of ​​the performance of these little jewels of watchmaking, NASA has equipped an astronaut with an Omega. This one remained 365 days in space.  

5. To make an investment 

When you buy an after all mundane watch, you are spending money. This is called a liability. On the other hand, the purchase of a luxury watch, on certain models, is a real investment. The watch will gain in value over time. After a few years, you will be able to resell it with a nice added value. This is called an asset. 

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shabby apple ,lois lane

The Winner of the Shabby Apple Lois Lane Dress giveaway is Jodie Walcutt. Congratulations, Jodie!

Fashion Haul Friday, Fashion, shopping, sales, styling, dress, moms, apparell

Fashion Haul Friday Shabby Apple Dress Giveaway and Review ~ This week’s Fashion Haul Friday find is a fabulous Shabby Apple dress. I’m pretty sure every woman with fashion sense knows what Shabby Apple is, so I am positive all of you already know of Shabby Apple boutique. If you are not familiar with Shabby Apple,let me tell you a little about them, they are an awesome company who makes chic vintage inspired clothing for women. The clothing has a very classy, feminine feel and is made to fit a woman’s body…a grown woman. A woman who has lived and had children and still has a lot of vivacious living to do, like you! Their vintage inspired dresses remind me a lot of the dresses women would wear in days gone by when silhouettes were more feminine and softer. The dresses are elegant and make any woman feel a little more beautiful. But the best part, aside from having loads of styles available, the price is affordable. Shabby Apple makes fashionable clothing and accessories affordable for every woman, including us Mommies who seldom get the chance to shop for ourselves and when we do dare shop for ourselves we are frugal and feel guilty if we spend too much on ourselves. Shabby Apple alleviates that guilt.

Shabby Apple does not disappoint

The dress that I chose to review was the Lois Lane. First of all, what images and ideas the very name Lois Lane invoke? Super savvy and intelligent, but remove the glasses and she is Superman’s super smokin hot leading lady. What more is there to know? There is just something about a fitted, flattering red dress that makes a woman feel sexy in her own skin. I know every girl needs a little black dress but this red dress packs a punch that you can’t pass up. You will certainly get double takes when you walk into the room. It fits generously but is curve flattering. The color is deep and looks beautiful on just about any  skin color. I really love the fact that you can wear the collar down for day time or up at night time to give it a little more spunk. I prefer it up! The Lois Lane is shown here with black pumps, it would also look hot paired with those back leather boots or the 5 inch Steve Madden heels from our last Fashion Haul.

shabby apple ,lois lane,fashion haul Friday, fashion

Shabby Apple Lois Lane Night Time

 

Shabby Apple Lois Lane Daytime

Features:

A tulip blossom collar adorned in ruffles tops the innovative and utterly provocative Lois Lane trench dress.  Awash with delightful details Lois Lane’s french coat styling, with asymmetrical buttons running from hemline to left shoulder, ruffled tulip sleeves, cinched-and-sashed waist and flouncy hem is a show-stopper you cannot miss.  Wear the collar up for greater drama or down for a sweeter look. 

Dress fits generously.

I think this dress is gorgeous and I think many of you will too! And bonus, Shabby Apple has given me the chance to offer a Lois Lane dress to one of my readers.  You know you want this! To enter to win is simple.

Mandatory Entry to win the Shabby Apple Lois Lane dress: Follow The TRUTH about Motherhood on Facebook and leave me a comment on my wall.

For more entries:

1) Follow Shabby Apple on Facebook (1 entry)

2) Email Subscribe to The TRUTH about Motherhood (+2 entry)

3) Tweet this giveaway by copying and pasting the following;  Awesome #giveaway for @ShabbyApple Enter to win a sassy new dress @truthfulmommy https://motherhoodthetruth.com/?p=6783  Please RT {1 entry per daily tweet}

4) Stumble and like this post (+2 entries)

5) Add my blog to your blog roll ( +2 entries)

Leave a separate comment for each entry. The giveaway will be closed December 8,2011 Thursday night 11:59 pm EST and chosen randomly. The winner will be announced in next Friday’s Fashion Haul Friday post. Contest is open to U.S. residents only and you must be over 18 to enter.Winner will have 24 hours to respond, if not a new winner will be chosen. Good luck. I’m sure any of you would look gorgeous in the Lois Lane!I have one request and that is that whomever wins this gorgeous dress will take a photo of themselves and share it on The TRUTH about Motherhood Facebook page.

Also, Shabby Apple is offering a 10% off discount to all The TRUTH about Motherhood readers on all of your Shabby Apple shopping this holiday season. The code is Truthful10off and the code is valid until January 2,1012. I hope you will all take advantage of this code and get yourself a hot little party dress for this season; YOU DESERVE IT!

*Disclaimer: Shabby Apple is providing the gorgeous prize for the giveaway. The opinions expressed in this post are my own. I was in no way compensated for writing about the Shabby Apple company.

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