Tashia vs. Baby bump

Button down- Goodwill 

Boyfriend jeans- Goodwill 

Tee- Target

Shoes- Steve Madden

Hair- Twistout 

1st. trimester is finally coming to an end...O'happy day!  Energy is slowly returning, appetite still in limbo but hey...

So, hubby and I stepped out and I got "cute". 

Why I love the boyfriend jean...I can fit into them comfortably without that darn itchy maternity band attached and still look chic! 

Tashia- 1pt.    Baby bump- 0   hehehe...

I'm sure by now you guys figured out that I'm pretty much obsessed with plaid and leopard. They've become neutrals in my eyes. Imagine the look on my face when I found this lovely black and yellow plaid shirt in "like new" condition for under $4 bucks!!! (Excuse me while I do my happy dance). The color combo is such a "throwback ". I immediately started plotting how I would rock it! :)

My tee is an oldie but goodie. It's been washed and worn so much it's just the way I like it. 

As for the shoes!!!! I'm pretty much a "shoe stalker". If I find a shoe I like, I stalk it until it's at an amount that I'm willing to spend.  I paid about 40% less than the original price after about 2 months. #thriftymom lol!

So there you have...there's no reason to allow your bump to stop your "fashion show ". 

Tashia- 2pts.  Baby bump- 0 hehehehe

                 Happy Thrifting💜

5 Style Essentials Every Expectant Mom Should Own!

So our family of 6 will soon be a family of 7!!! Yikes!!! I'm going to be a Mom of 5!!! We're super excited and can't wait to meet this little human who's already changing our lives.(smiles). We've always wanted a big family, so to those closest to us, this announcement comes at no big surprise! :-)

Of course I've been spending hours imagining if we'll have a boy or girl. Doodling baby names on everything. Picturing his or her little face :) . I've also been thinking about what every expectant mother wonders...what will I be wearing for the next 9 months of course!!!

So I've decided to put together a short list of a few things that every expectant mommy should always have to insure that she doesn't loose her "fabulousness"  behind the growing belly!

1. Oversized jacket- this item should actually be a staple in your closet rather you're expecting or not. But, how cool is it that your favorite bulky jacket will be able to accommodate your ever so growing belly for the entire pregnancy!

2. Distressed jeans- Boyfriend jeans are a great choice until you're forced into maternity wear; as they are loose fitting, super cute, and well let's face it...comfy! Purchase already distressed jeans or make your own for half the price. I'll definitely be distressing my own maternity jeans. What a great way to remain "on trend" even with your evoving body. 

3. Flats- Yeah I said it...The woman that wears heels more often than not. Look, I'm 34yrs. old now. I'm smart enough to know that rocking heels and a baby bump together is just not a good mix. Now don't get me wrong, I haven't totally written off heels for the next months ahead. However, I never leave home w/o a cute pointy toed flat on standby. 

4. Hats- We all have our "go to" hat for lazy hair days. If you don't own one, you should. A cute fedora is such an easy way to go from drab to fab in a matter of seconds. My energy is next to none these days and I'll tell ya, my cute little hats always save the day! ***add earrings and lipgloss for extra ump!

5. Oversized button down shirt- Guilty as charged! I've stolen tons of my hubby's button down shirts. Throw them on with leggings, leave them open with a tee underneath, wear them as cute dress with flats (endless possibilities with this). 

So, these are just a few of my "must haves". What are some of your staples while "dressing for two"? 

5 Ways Thrifting can Change your life Financially!

Happy Happy 2016!!!! So many of you have been busy staying consistent with your New Years resolutions and whatnots. Quit smoking, eat healthier, get into shape etc. etc.  Well...how about adding Save More Money to your list!!! 

I know I know easier said than done, right? 

What if I told you I have a sure fire way to help keep those pockets of yours fuller and happier this year! You're intrigued...keep reading 😃

Now that I have your attention I want to share 5 ways the thrift stores can change your life and the way you shop forever!!!

Are you ready?!?!?! Ok ok...

1. Perspective- You must take everything you thought you knew about thrift stores and throw it out! Thrift stores are not just filled with a bunch of old junk from smelly old basements.  Look at it as used treasures. A diamond in the rough even. A simple switch in perspective can change everything. 

2. New Goods- Goodwill as well as tons of other thrift stores are filled with new items! Yes tags still attached never used before items. The best part is you pay a fraction of the original price. 

3. Growing Pains- Let's face it. Kids grow like weeds! Literally you can buy your kid a pair of jeans and by the end of the month they have completely outgrown them. With 4 little ones, I experience this often. Why not save your money and instead of buying a pair of jeans at the mall for about $30-$40 and up, grab a pair from your local thrift store for about $5-$7bucks! You do the math...

4.Name Brand- Shopping at thrift stores does not equal "frumpy". You won't look like your walking around in "hand me downs". Trust me people think I pay a lot more for my clothes than I actually do. I find tons of highend name brands all the time. Just to name drop a few...I've found Dior, Kate Spade, Northface and tons more! 

5.Target- So I've kept the best money saving secret for last. How many of you have an addiction to the store Target? Come on be honest. Admitting you have a problem is the first step toward recovery(hehehe). I haven't met many women whom haven't deemed Target their "happy place"! Well guess what?!?! Goodwill carries New items from Target!!! Yes you heard me right. Clothing, swim wear, baby items, furniture, shoes, jewlery, and so much more! It's all new with tags in "new condition" for a fraction of the regular price! You can't beat that!!! 

Saving money doesn't mean one must compromise her style. You can have the "best of both worlds". Trust me...your husbands and wallets will thank you later!

             Happy Thrifting!!!💜

Mad for Plaid pt.2

So, let's face it folks...this is just one of those trends that won't be going anywhere anytime soon. There's tons of ways to sport plaid also know as tartan. 

Check the magazines you'll see your favorite celebs rocking this print. Red and Black seemed to be the most popular plaid of choice this season. What a fun way to look comfy and chic without much effort. 

Below I've posted some of the ways I rock plaid. Keep in mind the possibilities are endless. Have fun and don't be shy to mix patterns. I LOVE a red plaid print mixed with leopard. 

Oh yeah did I mention these are all "Thrifted looks"!!!

               Happy Thrifting!!💜

Oldie But Goodie

Jean overalls- Target brand 

Black top- Banana Republic 

Scarf- H&M

Shoes- Chinese Laundry 

Hair- Fluffed out Wash&Go 

So I'm sure you've all heard, Kobie Bryant is retiring. As you can guess I jumped at the chance to see him stomp down the Piston's court for the final time. Not that I'm a huge Kobie fan but hey, every girl is always looking for an excuse to get "cute", right?!?! 

I needed something  basketball game appropriate...not to over do it but comfy and chic. Overalls! Perfect! Who doesn't love overalls? As a child they were everyones favorite. If you grew up in the 90's (as I did) you may remember overalls were a HUGE fashion trend!!! The hottest groups were rocking them i.e. TLC, Kriss Kross (just to name a few). 

Well ladies...overalls have made a comeback in a major way! Tons of celebrities have been caught sporting this "oldie but goodie". The trick to wearing them these days are to make them more feminine. To remix... wear a more fitted look and add heels for flair! Super cute and super easy!!! I snagged these at Salvation Army for under $5 bucks! Scarf was .99 and top free (gifted) #winning 

The night was fun the Pistons won and my boys got to see one of the greatest of our time play! 

DETROIT BASKETBALL!!!! Sorry I couldn't help myself :-D

Until next time...

               Happy Thrifting! 💜

Complimentary Colors

Top- Goodwill  (Limited)

Bottoms- Volunteers of America 

Booties- Bcbg

Hair- 2 cornrows 

So I've recently become obsessed with the combo of shorts and tights! In fact, the girl that usually despises colder temps was actually thrilled about the recent chillier weather all for the love of this look!!! 

For some this color palette may have been a bit of a risk (olive and plum). The trick to safely adding "pops of color" is finding colors that compliment each other. So...what does this mean you ask? Use a color wheel. Colors directly across from each other are the compliment. This is a easy way to make a bold statement with your accessories (shoes, purse, jewelry, tights, etc.). 

Have fun with it and don't be afraid to try colors together that you've never done before. You'd be surprised at how much a small pop of color can add to your outfit! 

                Happy Thrifting! 💜

Black and White

Top- Goodwill (Limited)

Pants- Goodwill (H&M)

Flats- Chinese Laundry 

Hair- Wash&Go

Hey loves. It's been forever!!! How I've missed blogging about my super nifty thrifty finds :-)  

It's been a uber busy summer. With the kids sports and working full time for the first time in about 10yrs. And did I mention that I released my first book!!!! Yes July 1st. I became an author! Crazy right. The book is titled Hair Like Mine. Grab your copy today from Amazon or Barnes&Noble.com

But ok back to business... Let's talk about this look created for under $7. Yes that's right under $7 not including the shoes. I usually indulge a bit when it come to shoes :-D  

It's difficult for me to even shop at a mall because I know this outfit could have easily cost close to $80 or more. 

Just a simple button down and plain black pant that I added spunk to by slicing the knees straight across. Added a pop of red because why not! 

Super easy and chic. Effortlessly fashionable. Whoa...that was a mouth full :-D

              Happy Thrifting!💜

Color Me Happy!

Jumper- Goodwill

Belt- Salvation Army

Heels- Guess

Hair- Wash&Go

WOW!!! It's been such a long time. How I've missed you guys. You know how it is. I'm a wife, mom of 4 and life happens.... But any who I'm back! 

I've had this tye-dye number for a while now. I spotted it by total accident at Goodwill. I went home and was hunted by the outfit the entire night. My avid thrift shoppers know...if you spot a vintage piece and pass it over it will hunt you for the REST OF YOUR LIFE lol!  Ok so maybe I'm exaggerating a bit. But...being the thrift shopping junkie that I am, I woke up and was there when Goodwill opened. 

I walked in and there it was!!!! Just for me! It was destiny!!!!  Color me happy!!! I felt accomplished! And I wore a smile for the rest of the day :-)

              Happy Thrifting!!! 💜

Fresh ta Death!

Blazer- Goodwill

Button down- Goodwill

Jeans- Volunteers of Amer.

Shoes- Target

Hair- Wash&Go

I know, I know usually when wearing black and white we feel compelled to pair with a bright colored shoe (reds, yellows, etc).  I normally would too. However, in this case I couldn't help but follow the trend of my shoes through out my entire outfit! 

I'm obssessed with polka dots and love stripes also. Pairing the two together is a easy and safe way to mix patterns (for my pattern mixing newbies :-))

I kept my jewelry simple as to not clutter my already "busy" ensemble. 

LET'S TALK HAIR...

My motto is go BIG or go home! :) My favorite and ever so convient wash&go! It never let's me down. 

Yeah I thought was "fresh ta death" that night! Ha ha I may be aging myself using that term ;)

               Happy Thrifting💜💜

 

"The Boots"

Blue jean dress- Goodwill $5.99

Pink belt- Salvation Army $1.00

Cowboy boots- Dan Post $10.99(retail value $350)

Hair- wash & go using Longaid Curl gel 

It's been a while. I've been super busy with life. Being a wife and mom of 4 usually leaves minimal time for side jobs but hey...gotta love it!

I just so happen to run in Goodwill one day in between picking up the kids from school. I had about 20mins to skim the entire store. There they were!!!! Ahh!!! I've seriously wanted a pair of nice Cowboy boots for years! In fact my hubby almost bought me a pair for Christmas but they didn't have my size in the color I wanted. My Thrifting Angels were with me that day lol! 

So I grab the boots quick. I try them on and bam...I break out into my happy dance(seriously I did) :-)

They fit! They actually fit and it's the exact color I've longed for! You can probably guess what happens next...no I didn't purchase just yet. I took a "shoefie" of course! You know a "selfie" for a shoe! I couldn't wait to brag on social media #greatfind #superdeal #feelinmyself #whosthewoman ok ok you get my point! 

 So there you have it folks. You don't have to spend millions to look like you spent millions. Compromise Style For Nothing! 

              Happy Thrifting💜

Sissy Gone Thrifting!

Polka Dot Denim Shirt- Goodwill $3.99

Yellow Polka Dot Pants- Spoiled Rotten Resale $5.00

Hunter Boots- Nordstroms

Hair- stretched twistout using Curly Milk by Shea Moisture

My sweet little fashionista is also my partner in crime when it comes to Thrifting! She loves going to all of the different 2nd hand shops and searching for "diamonds in the rough". I knew when she was very young (10mons) that she was going to be our "girly girl".  Well boy had I underestimated how true of a statement this really was!!!! She loves dresses, skirts, tu-tu's, glittery things...you name it! She has a ball looking through clothes at the thrift shops.  She always has a say when it comes to her OOTD(outfit of the day). Making suggestions and putting different pieces together...in fact with a little help this outfit was actually her idea!  

I love to allow my children to express themselves through their clothes, hair etc.(as long as it's age appropriate). She let's me know exactly how to style her hair so that she'll be pretty (her words lol).

She loves her curly natural hair and this makes me most proud!

As I was tucking her in bed tonight she asked me..."mommy can we go to the goodwill tomorrow because I need a new pair of shoes". My reply..."sure Cassidy now go to sleep". It's funny because I was thinking the same thing(laughs)!  Sweet Dreams...

                Happy Thrifting!💜

Fashion Rebel

Oversized Coat- Salvation Army $7.00

Sweater- JcPenny $3.99

Denim Shirt- Goodwill $1.00

Jeans- JcPenny $15.00

Boots- Macys (Mia)

Hair- Braidout Blowout

As I sit and reminisce on all of the ridiculous "fashion rules" I've been taught throughout my life... I realize I've turned into a bit of a "fashion rebel" (can I coin that term?) lol. Any who, I was taught  wearing white was strictly reserved for Memorial Day thru Labor Day...that's it! Anyone wearing white outside off those dates were commiting fashion suicide (laughs). 

Everything you wore had to match well...unless you were colorblind with no help getting dressed in the mornings. 

I discovered some time ago that there's quite a distinction between fashion and style. Fashion is a trend. What's "hot" and what's "not". Fashion is safe. It's easy to "fit in" and know that at least your wearing this seasons hottest trend! 

Style is a personality. This is your chance to really show the world who you are. You can tell a lot about a person just in the way they are dressed(mood, self esteem, etc.). Of course I'm generalizing here but for the most part I find this to be pretty accurate. Mix patterns. Wear your hair natural. Don't be afraid to take chances. Go against the "style grain"!  

Always remember... fashion fades only style remains the same -Coco Chanel

              Happy Thrifting💜

Merry Christmas!

Sweater- Volunteers of Amer $5.00 

Jeans- Goodwill $3.00

Hair- wash&go 

Happy Holidays everyone!!!!! Remember Jesus is truly the "reason for the season"! We often get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of getting the perfect gift and perfect holiday outfit that we forget what Christmas is all about. As we celebrate our saviors birthday, remember it's not about gifts and how much money you spend...it's about quality time with family and friends and being a blessing to others. Learn to appreciate things that we often take for granted and remember...there's always someone that would give anything to be in your shoes! Shop smart and spend wisely.  This season stress a little less, smile a little more, and give out lots of hugs!!!! :-)  Merry Christmas!

I can't sign off without addressing this hair...Go BIG or Go Home! That's my model :-) I achieved this look using Organix Coconut milk conditioner, Organix Kukui oil conditioner, (home made essential oil mixture), and last Longaid curl gel. Check out my Facebook page for Natural Hair Secret Life of Curls for tips on taking care and styling natural hair. 

                 Happy Thrifting💜

Simple Chic

Hat- Charming Charlie

Necklace- Goodwill $2.99

Dress- Goodwill $3.00

Overcoat- Goodwill $5.00

Over-the-knee socks- Forever21

Boots- Aldo

There's always that one item that you find in a thrift store that leaves you thinking...who in the heck would give this item away???  Well...my thoughts exactly on this stunning green over-jacket! I mean the color all by its self is "show stopping"! I decided to keep the rest of the outfit simple as to keep all attention on the coat and statement necklace. 

Over-the-knee socks are an old favorite of mine that happen to be a huge trend right now. 

Simple, Modest, and Chic!

                

                Happy Thrifting💜

Chic Happens!

Graphic tee- gifted

Denim shirt- Goodwill $1.50

Skirt- Goodwill $3.49

Shoes- Steve Madden

Hair- Wash & go

We all have that one piece of clothing that we are saving for a special night. Well, this fabulous vintage skirt that I have been itching to wear finally made it's debut!!!! 

I had the honor of being apart of an awesome event. A fashion show Vehicle City Fashion Week(fashion against violence). What a great turnout for such an important cause! I was able to show off my skirt as well, show off my thrifting and styling skills!!! (Pops collar :D)

                 Happy Thrifting💜

11yrs Baby!!!!

Sweatshirt- Goodwill $3.00

Skirt- Chicwish

Booties- Salvation Army $8.00

Hair- Curly Puff on wet hair 

Tonight I celebrated 11yrs of marriage with my love!  I wanted to put on something really special! Well boy did I execute that plan!!! I had several people stop and inquire about this little green number I'm rocking today :)  My hubby even noticed the stares and compliments!!! I always feel prettiest in feminine girlie fashion...but boy was I freezing! Oh well I handled it like a champ;)

☑️Never spend over $50 on outfit

☑️Always push the fashion envelope

☑️Endulge in lots of PDA with hubby

Mission Accomplished!  

             Happy Thrifting💜

Mix-Match Denim!

Top- Goodwill $1.99

Jeans- Goodwill (Levi) $4.49

Boots- Aldo

Hair- Twistout on wet hair

For those of you that love for all of your clothes to match. Those that are afraid of mixing patterns...this post is for you. Baby steps is key.  Here's a simple and subtle way to get comfortable going against the fashion grain.  Take 2 denim pieces with different shades and pair them together. The higher the contrast the better it looks! The great thing about denim is it's like having a blank canvas. Any accessories you  pair will go well. I kept it simple with browns but, I could have added color (red, yellow, green etc). Or, how about animal print for fun! The possibilities are endless!!! Have fun with fashion. Never be afraid to take risks!

                 Happy Thrifting💜

Mad For Plaid!!!

Top- Goodwill $3.99 (w/tags)

Jeans- Goodwill $4.89

Boots- Kenneth Cole

Hair- Braidout on stretched hair

Fall is my absolute favorite season of the year. I love the beautiful colors, the smell of the fresh crisp air. Apple Orchards and Pumpkin Patches. Most of all though, I love the fashion! 

Plaid will be making a come back this year. You'll notice tons of Celebs rocking their plaid in all sorts of fun ways (coats, shoes, skirts, etc.) Don't be afraid to mix plaid with other patterns. Dress it up or down. Have fun with it. Check out your nearest thrift store to add plaid to your wardrobe w/o hurting your pockets. 

              Happy Thrifting 💜

70's Ya'll

Romper- Free

Sandals- Mia

Hair- Old twistout

Free!!! Yes free! My spiritual mom wore this exact outfit in the 70's when she would perform (she's a singer) and she kept it all these years and gave it to me!!!! I'm absolutely obsessed with this romper!!! I felt like Donna Summers y'all...hair and all!  

                Happy Thrifting💜

CHUCKS!

Cropped Top- Foreman Mills $2.99

Skirt- Goodwill $3.49

Shoes- Converse

Hair- Braidout on stretched hair using Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie

I must confess that I have never been a huge fan of Foreman Mills. It's just big and cluttered but, I quickly realized that every now and then they have the cutest little tops and at unbeatable prices! 

I promise I do own pants!!!! I just feel so pretty when I wear skirts and dresses! 

I try to display my personality through my style. Im not defined by society or trends! Typically you wouldn't pair a crop top, pencil skirt and chucks...but that's the beauty of it! 

                Happy Thrifting💜