Tag: Lifestyle Blogger

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

BJs Wholesale Club: Seasonal Summer Products

I love high fashion, style, and interior design but I’m also a home economist.  It’s a personal connection to my Southern roots because we entertain, relax, and love our families at home.  With that in mind, it’s very important to select the right wholesale club to meet your family’s needs.

I have shopped various wholesale clubs and recently learned that BJ’s fits the needs of my family.  The store carry’s sales (with coupons) on grocery items and provides a variety of seasonal merchandise such as outdoor swimming pools, glow solar laterns, wicker patio coolers, life jackets, and outdoor firepit.

A few of the products I purchased included SuperFoam Insulated Mega Tote, Chalkadoos, Flip Flops, Little Tikes Grill, Golf Shirt, and Ninja Turtle Interactive Game Rug.  Having those summer toys make any mom’s life a little easier!  For example, my boys enjoy endless hours of imaginary play with the Little Tikes Grill and the Interactive Game Rug can travel to the beach or playdate.

Slip into your sandals and step out into the warmth of summer!  Make your backyard the envy of all with fun items for children, and don’t forget about the sunscreen!  BJ’s carries a range of sun care products from the leading brands of Neutrogena®, Coppertone®, and Banana Boat®. These products are in great value packs that help protect your family’s skin. Outdoor Fun Products include:

Refer a friend to join BJ’s Wholesale Club and you’ll both receive a $10 BJ’s gift card when they join.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete this registration form, read and agree to the Offer Terms below, and click GO to register: https://tellyourfriendsrewards.com/users/sign_in
  2. Invite friends via email, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
  3. Once a friend registers online using your link and joins BJ’s, you’ll each receive a $10 BJ’s Gift Card.

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Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

The Platform: Black Music Month Event in Baltimore

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Event Producer and Media Personality Kevin Lei is set to sponsor for its 3rd year, The “Platform: A Black Music Month Event”. Kevin Lei is the visionary of The Connection Network, a good-news media outlet based in the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan Area.

This year’s event will take place on Tuesday, June 30, 2015 at Baltimore’s musical haven Mood Ultralounge @ 347, located at 347 N. Calvert Street, Baltimore, MD 21202, from 8-12midnight. The Platform: A Black Music Month Event is dedicated to showcasing the best in black music and artistry. This year’s performers include Stellar Award Winning Artist, Ms. Jessica Greene, International Recording Artist, Freedom Imani and National Recording Artists, April Hall and Christen B. The event will be co-hosted by National Playwright and Author, Crystal L. Bass, Executive Producer of America’s #1 hit stage play, “Ain’t No Love Like A Mother’s Love” and Media Personality, Rock Mitchell. This year’s 2015 Artist Achievement recipients will be multiple Stellar Award Winner and Grammy Nominated Artist, “The Princess of Praise and Worship”, Ms. Maurette Brown Clark and Nationally Hailed Legendary house DJ, DJ. Spen. “With the recent upheaval in our city, what better time than now to come together and celebrate the richness of our culture, our music, and those who have paved the way for us. I want this year’s black music month event to be reminiscent of attending a family reunion, where you see folks who you haven’t seen in a while, laugh until it hurts, enjoy feel good music, and socialize around tasty bites and delicious drink.” stated Kevin Lei, host of the Connection.

The Platform is one of the leading Black Music Month events in the city of Baltimore. Each year, we strive to give our audience an unparalleled evening of musical celebration. This year we are excited to honor and feature both established and emerging voices. To learn more about The Platform: A Black Music Month event or to purchase tickets log onto www.thecarrolltongroup.com – tickets will go on sale June 10th. The Platform: A Black Music Month event, will take place on Tuesday, June 30th at Mood Ultra Lounge @ 347, located 347 N. Calvert Street, Baltimore, MD 21202.

About The Platform:

A Black Music Month Event: Created in 2012, The Platform, A Black Music Month Event is an outlet for artists and black music lovers alike to gather and experience phenomenal music from new and established artists to celebrate Black Music Month. The Platform has worked with nationally acclaimed stars such as TV One R&B Diva Lil’ Mo (2012 Artist Achievement Award Recipient), BET Sunday Best and Stellar Award Winning Artist, Ms. Y’Anna Crawley (2013 Artist Achievement Award Recipient), Sony BMG – R&B Superstar, Paula Campbell (2013 Artist Achievement Award Recipient), and NAACP Image Award Winner, Ms. Sheri Booker (2012-2013 Host), along with other dynamic artists and musicians within the metropolitan area and abroad. The Platform: A Black Music artists and musicians.

hashtag #ThePlatformBMM

Accessories /

Pandora Jewelry Partnership With Go Red Baltimore Luncheon

PANDORA is a proud partner of the American Heart Association, Mid Atlantic Regional Chapter. With the recent move of their headquarters to 250 W. Pratt Street, the company’s refocusing their efforts on our local sponsorships and maintaining our philanthropic presence in the city.

The Go Red Baltimore Luncheon occurred on June 5, 2015 at the Hotel at Arundel Preserve.  The luncheon strived to educate Maryland women on proper heart health while raising funds for heart disease research and treatment.

If you like this post, click here:  Pandora Jewelry – Sentimental Style and Accessories

DIY /

Coffee Station: How To Guide and Lifestyle Tip

I drink coffee and that’s a well-known fact.  The aroma of a delicious brew and warmth of a well made cup gives me an instant boost of energy.  My favorite flavor is Pumpkin Spice or when I need a “mommy boost” Cafe Mocha.

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I like to prepare coffee at my home because it’s easy access and affordable.  Honestly, I don’t always have the patience to wait in line, so I brew a cup while getting the boys dressed or cleaning my home.  With a constant search for cups, sugar, and grounds I decided to create a coffee station in my kitchen.

You may not drink coffee and like to sip tea but having a beverage station can save time and help with entertaining guests.  For example, your coworker stops by after work, why not offer a cup of tea?  Or you changed diapers all day but want a nice aroma in your home (before your bestie comes over) brew a cup of coffee!

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Creating a coffee station can be fun and based on your personal style.  Some people like to include baskets, special containers, straws, bottled water, and fruit.  Others keep it simple with a tray, creamer, sugar, and mugs.  I designed a station that’s a combination of all hot beverages for coffee, tea, and cocoa.

Below are “How To” tips for creating a Coffee Station:

*  Place a small scoop next to coffee grounds for accurate measurement

* Shop discount stores or thrift shops for unique inexpensive containers

*  Add a chalk board for notes with salt & pepper shakers to hold cinnamon or cocoa

*  Use a tray or basket to separate the space

* Don’t forget your coffee mugs, straws, spoons, and liners

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photos are from Pinterest.com

 

Accessories /

LONGINES CELEBRATES AND AWARDS ELEGANT TIMEPIECES AT PREAKNESS STAKES

LONGINES CELEBRATES AND AWARDS ELEGANT TIMEPIECES AT PREAKNESS STAKES FOR OWNER, TRAINER AND JOCKEY OF AMERICAN PHAROAH 

Swiss Watchmaking Brand Longines Was Official Timekeeper and Watch of the 140th Preakness Stakes, and Bestowing Partner of the International Pavilion, Dixie Stakes

Longines, renowned Swiss watch brand and Official Timekeeper and Watch of the 140th Preakness Stakes, ceremoniously awarded the winning owner, trainer and jockey of American Pharoah with Conquest Classic watches in the International Pavilion at Pimlico Race Course on Saturday, May 16.

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Trainer Bob Baffert, center, shows off another Longines timepiece after American Pharoah wins the 140th Preakness Stakes and the second leg of the Triple Crown, Saturday, May 16, 2015, in Baltimore, Md., with jockey Victor Espinoza.  Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

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Zaneta Sampson, left, and Jennifer Judkins, second left, of Longines, get ready to present Longines Conquest Classic timepieces as jockey Victor Espinoza and the American Pharoah team celebrate their win at the 140th Preakness Stakes and the second leg of the Triple Crown, Saturday, May 16, 2015, in Baltimore, Md. Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

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For the second year in a row, jockey Victor Espinoza celebrates winning the second leg of the Triple Crown at the 140th Preakness Stakes, Saturday, May 16, 2015, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md.  American Pharoah will be a contender for the Triple Crown at Belmont Park on June 6.  Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

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American Pharoah, ridden by jockey Victor Espinoza, wins the second leg of the Triple Crown as he runs away with the 140th Preakness Stakes, Saturday, May 16, 2015, at a muddy Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md.  American Pharoah will be a contender for the Triple Crown at Belmont Park on June 6.  Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

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 Jennifer Judkins, left, and Zaneta Sampson, right, of Longines, present owner Stuart Janney, assistant trainer Robert Medina and jockey Javier Castellano, left to right, with Longines Conquest Classic timepieces after their horse Ironicus won the Longines Dixie Stakes, Saturday, May 16, 2015, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md.  Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

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Ironicus, ridden by jockey Javier Castellano, wins the Longines Dixie Stakes, Saturday, May 16, 2015, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md.  Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

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Jennifer Judkins, left, of Longines, presents Katrina Dennis, of Baltimore, Md., with a Longines Conquest Classic timepiece after she wins the Longines Most Elegant Woman at the Preakness contest, Saturday, May 16, 2015, in Baltimore, Md.  Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

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Katrina Dennis, right, of Baltimore, Md., celebrates after winning the Longines Most Elegant Woman at the Preakness contest, Saturday, May 16, 2015, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md. Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

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Contestants show off their style during the Longines Most Elegant Woman at the Preakness contest, Saturday, May 16, 2015, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md. Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

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Jennifer Judkins, U.S. Brand President for Longines awarded Zayat Stables LLC co-owner, trainer Bob Baffert and jockey Victor Espinoza with elegant timepieces after American Pharoah cemented itself as a potential Triple Crown winner. American Pharoah, ridden by jockey, Victor Espinoza, raced to victory in 1 minute and 58 seconds.

New this year was the launch of Preakness App presented by the organizers of the Preakness Stakes. The app supported a public contest in which users aimed to guess the exact timing of the winning horse, American Pharoah. A Conquest Timepiece was sent to the winner.

Longines had a prominent presence throughout Pimlico on Preakness day serving as the Official Timekeeper and Watch with a large chronograph at the finish line and hosting the Longines Most Elegant Woman at Preakness Fashion Contest. The Longines Most Elegant Woman at Preakness Fashion Contest celebrated the sophisticated style of The Preakness Stakes. With the help of a panel of judges, Longines chose the most elegant woman and presented her a Longines Conquest Classic Timepiece with diamonds. Conquest Classic watches were also granted to the winning horses’ owner, trainer and jockey of the Dixie Stakes presented by Longines.

To highlight its partnership, the watchmaker had a digital “Longines Preakness Stakes Countdown Clock” on the official Preakness Stakes website, www.preakness.com, and served as the presenting partner of the International Pavilion, the leading hospitality destination. Located at the finish line, the International Pavilion brings the world to the Preakness by choosing a different country each year to serve as the host nation with its respective embassy and Ambassador serving as Honorary Host. The embassy of Canada served as the 2015 host nation.  For more information and photography from the 140th Preakness Stakes visit: http://inr.synapticdigital.com/swatch_group/preakness_2015.

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About the Watches

The Conquest Classic line is a tribute to the chronographs produced by Longines as early as 1881 for race-goers and jockeys in New York. This collection of models, all fitted with self-winding calibers, is both contemporary and perfectly timeless, representing the brands’ rich tradition and watch-making expertise.

Conquest Classic is available in three sizes. The ladies’ models have a diameter of 29.50 mm with a black, mother-of-pearl or silvered dial and are available in steel, rose gold or a combination of steel and rose gold. A second model with hours, minutes and date is available with a diameter of 40.00 mm, fitted on black alligator straps or steel or steel and rose gold bracelets, each to match the dial. At 41 mm, the chronographs are fitted with an L688 column-wheel movement exclusively developed for Longines. The case is either in steel, steel and rose gold or rose gold alone with a silvered or black dial.

LONGINES
Longines has been based at Saint-Imier, Switzerland, since 1832. It has generations of experience as the official timekeeper at world championships and as a partner of international sports federations. Longines is a member of The Swatch Group S.A., the world’s leading manufacturer of horological products. With an excellent reputation for creating refined timepieces, the brand, whose emblem is the winged hourglass, has outlets in over 140 countries.

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DIY /

Homemade Salad Dressing: Lifestyle Tip and Summer Option

Two weeks ago I was preparing lunch and realized there was no salad dressing.  I instantly became upset because my salad was delicious and wanted the full experience.  My mind began to wonder and that’s when I created my own dressing!  Honestly, homemade salad dressing is a healthier option because there’s no added sodium or fat.  You can regulate the ingredients according to your individual diet.

Mandarin Salad - Favorite Salad Option
Mandarin Salad – Favorite Salad Option

My recipe started with the base ingredients such as olive oil, salt, pepper, Coleman’s mustard, parsley, and vinegar; there’s so much more to make your dressing appealing.  Homemade salad dressing can be prepared in less than 15 minutes and in larger quanities.  It’s also delicious with (other) afternoon snack options such as tuna, veggies, cheese, and crackers.

It’s almost summer which means we want quick healthy meals.  Consider making homemade salad dressing to compliment snacks, lunch, or dinner!

Quick Girl’s Classic Vinaigrette Dressing

 

1 1/2 tablespoons vinegar

 

1/4 teaspoon salt

 

1 tablespoon Coleman’s Mustard

 

 

1/8 teaspoon pepper

 

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

 

Preparation:

 

Combine ingredient’s in a bowl and whisk.  Don’t forget your salad dressing maker and other tools from Target!
Salad Dressing Maker
Salad Dressing Maker
Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Summer 2015 Survival Kit: Skin care, Drink Options, and BBQ Set

Summer is around the corner and we’ve compiled your SUMMER 2015 SURVIVAL KIT!

From the latest in skin care to refreshing drink options, milkshake machines and more, below are summer-perfect items to get you through every last sun shining day.

Coconut Oil For Beauty: While most people associate coconut oil with cooking, Extra Virgin Coconut oil actually has a variety of beauty uses and this trendy item can multipurpose as a moisturizer, hair conditioner, teeth whitener, shaving cream, and natural sunscreen. Moreover, most folks would agree that the right facial mask is one that contains coconut oil. Pure, unrefined, and cold pressed, this Extra Virgin Coconut Oil from Carrington Farms coconut oil comes in convenient, portable Paks, so it’s great for toting to the beach or a pool. As an added bonus, coconut oil has been shown to help prevent breakouts, so you won’t have to worry about unwanted blemishes. Priced at $9.99/8- 0.5 oz packets per box at select retailers and online at www.CarringtonFarms.com

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Organic Beach Towels: In Turkey, where bathing has been raised to an art, khadi is the traditional choice for toweling. Coyuchi’s Mediterranean Beach Towels are traditional lightweight Turkish bath towels with a high/low weave for excellent absorption. Woven from yarn dyed organic cotton and edged in hand-knotted fringe. Cotton is 100% organic, and sourced and woven in Turkey. Priced at $68 at coyuchi.com

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Travel Friendly Wine: VOGA Italia’s Baby Sparkling is a mini sized sparkling wine- perfectly portioned for one! With a unique screw top cap, you can easily open and reseal while enjoying a summer picnic lunch or day at the beach! For extra cute enjoyment, pop in a straw and enjoy. No glass needed. Priced at $5.99 at select retailers nationwide.

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Hydrating Coconut Water: Coco Joy is naturally rich in nutrients and hydrating electrolytes and full of sweet flavor from all natural, pure coconut water made from 100% pure green coconuts that contain no added sugar and no preservatives. It’s gluten, lactose and dairy free and is the perfect cool companion to rejuvenate after a day spent under the sun. It delivers antioxidants, calcium and magnesium and has fewer calories, less sodium and more potassium than sports drinks. Coco Joy is brand new to the US and is available on Amazon.com. Priced at $1.90 for 8.40 fl. oz cans and $3.90 for 42 fl. oz. bottles.

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Portable BBQ Set: You’ve got the beverages, now what about the eats? Prepare a serious BBQ at your local park or favorite outdoor spot with All-Clad Stainless Steel BBQ Set. The set includes 4 grilling tools in a sturdy, metal carrying case for easy transport of tools to the grilling area. Priced at $119 at www.macys.com.

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Milkshake Machine: Nothing’s better on a hot summer day than a creamy milkshake! Now with Omega’s milkshake makers you can bring the fun home! The extra-large Stainless Steel blending cup clicks on and off for ease-of-use and serving. The powerful motor and detachable spindle aerates mixtures into frothy, smooth textures for superior whipping results. Priced at $179.95- 399.95 at www.OmegaJuicers.com

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Hot-Weather Ready Pillow: Get your beauty sleep…even on a hot summer night. JuveRest’s The Sleep Wrinkle Pillow’s contoured shape provides comfortable support and improved air circulation around your head keeping you cooler at night. Plus, its patented design minimizes facial wrinkles by promoting back sleeping and compression-free side sleeping. Priced at $179 at www.juverest.com

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Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Carrington Farms May On The Move: Kale Omelette Recipe

CarringtonMayontheMove

This year, Carrington Farms is celebrating springtime by encouraging everyone to keep healthy items on hand at all times, made possible by Carrington’s new line of portable, on-the-go products.

As you already know from this blog, I am a fan of the Carrington Farms product line.  They’re quick, healthy and an easy way to incorporate certain vitamins and nutrients in your diet.  The company has also taken this concept a step further with the creation of Flax Chia, Coconut Oil, and Flax Hemp Paks.

We often overlook breakfast but it’s a very important start to our day!  The proper (breakfast) dish can jumpstart your energy and metabolism.  I wanted to share a recipe with the use of Flax Hemp Paks.

Kale Omelette Recipe:

Ingredients:
About a cup of shredded kale
1 clove of garlic, minced
2 eggs
1 tbsp of milk
1 tsp of Flax Hemp
1/2 diced tomatoes
1/2 onions
1 tsp Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper
 
Directions:
Add olive oil and garlic to pan over medium heat for about a minute. Add your kale and let it sizzle and wilt for a few minutes. Whisk two eggs, milk, cheese, onions, and tomatoes together and add to the pan, and wait a few minutes.
Once its cooked flip the omelette and fold the egg.  Season to taste and enjoy!
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Kale Omelette with Flax Hemp Paks
Anyone who orders products off the Carrington website www.carringtonfarms.com can enter the coupon code of MayOnTheMove for 20% off + free shipping (valid for all products on the site).

 

To follow Carrington Farms on social media:

Facebook page www.facebook.com/carringtonfarms | Twitter https://twitter.com/CarringtonFarms | Instagram page https://instagram.com/carringtonfarms/

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Accessories /

The Art of Thrifting – How To Guide

Thrift shopping has become “the cool kids” way of updating their wardrobe and I have always adored thrifting.  It’s one of my favorite hobbies since the age of 15 and allowed me to express my individual style.

My dad could never understand my obsession with consignment/thrift shops.  He gave me money for clothing but instead of spending it at McCraes (which is now Belks) I would ask my mom to drive me to the thrift shop.

I think it was the experience of understanding clothing construction that attracted me to this hobby.  In the process of shopping, I learned a lot about fabrics and fixtures.  I also learned how to properly care for clothing because some items need to be dry cleaned while others required fabric softener.

Thankfully my mom never rejected my obsession because she also enjoys thrifting.  To this day we call it “the closet” and when I visit my parents we turn this into a major event.  For us, it’s a bonding activity and a perfect opportunity to neglect the budget planner for a little while, and still somehow save money!

I do recognize that thrifting’s not for everyone but I think it’s about strategy.  There’s an art to thrifting that many may not understand and some of us have the true knack of finding a good deal.  I want to help those who may not understand how to thrift and share in this experience.

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Thrifted Skirt, Handbag, Belt, and Dress

 

Step Number One:  I read fashion magazines like Instyle or People StyleWatch to recognize what’s fashionable for the season.   When I’m shopping, I will instantly gravitate towards that trendy pair of white seersucker pants hanging on the rack.

Step Number Two:  Know your body type before shopping consignment/thrift stores.  Entering a thrift store can be overwhelming because there’s so much merchandise.  You want to select items that compliment your figure and NOT because it’s a designer blouse.  Nothing’s worse than paying $12 dollars for something that doesn’t work and you can NOT take back to the store.

Step Number Three:  Search for quality fabrics or what I like to call (this is my fashion degree moment) natural fibers.  They tend to hold up well in the course of wearing and look chic.

Step Number Four:  Always, Always, Always, Always, overlook the garment.  Do not purchase anything without searching the garment from top to bottom.  For example, if you have a blazer in your basket search the pockets for tears, look at the buttons to see if one’s missing, or whether there’s a hole in the fabric.  This is a very important step to thrifting.

Step Number Five:  This may come as a surprise but thrift shops actually have sale days.  Check with the sales associates or look around the store for sales.  Also, keep up with the store discounts; for example, if a ticket has a red sticker your item could be 50% off.

You’re probably asking what type of items have I found while thrifting?  Well,  you’ve actually seen a few of the items on this site but I’ve purchased a fur coat (my first one in graduate school) Louis Vuitton wallet, Ralph Lauren sweaters, BCBG pumps, vintage sunglasses and clutch purses, denim jeans, wool plaid swing coat (my favorite in college) knee boots, and the list goes on!

Nothing says “chic” better than mixing vintage couture and fabulous accessories.