because Giving Back can Be Totally Gorgeous

One of my favorite things about the change in seasons is being able to make a change with your wardrobe.

I typically like to do a spring cleaning  of my closet at least 2 times a year; really quarterly, if time permits. This weekend was my second for this year. 

As I rummaged through my shoes, dresses, pants and skirts, I used the time to sift through my entire closet and select some neat things to donate .  The Salvation Army, Career Wardrobe, New Life and Plato’s Closet are just some of the places I like to recycle my fashion.

My rules are … if I haven’t worn it in 5 years, place it in the “it can go” pile . 

If you are like me, you might have way too many clothes and not enough time to wear them all. So don’t feel guilty relieving your closet of a few items, you will either replace it at some point in time or out grow the “want” for it anyways. All the same, those donated items will be a blessing to another person. There is never a downside to donating, because giving back can be totally gorgeous.

Things to consider when donating

•          items should be clean and or gently used
•      no holes, tears or stains 
•            Also (try to) bag the items according to pieces (tops/bottoms/shoes) * This will helps with itemizing what you plan to give away, as well as keeping the items organized for the donation site.

 Best items to donate (in the spring)

• Jeans
• Dress Pants and Shirts (Business attire)
• Dresses
• Sport Coats /Jackets
• Sneakers
• Shoes (all styles)

“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” - Winston Churchill

Tough as Leather

My most unexpected finds, sometimes are the best. I stumbled across this leather bag on one of my consignment stroll, in the Bryn Mawr section of Philadelphia. It was in this cute little consignment boutique, where I found this cross-body hang bag for a steal. It was, let’s say hmmm say under $20 bucks. It was in excellent condition and the material was authentic; I had to purchase it!

 

It's 3 years later and I incorporate this bag in my casual wear.  It’s black, genuine Italian leather, weaved into a series of squares to form a sturdy pattern for the bag. Outlining the bag is a braiding pattern of the leather, and even the strap is designed in an unusual pattern.  This bag design was was complicated yet simple... tough as leather.

Walk the Talk 2012 Event

 What a great way to spend my Saturday afternoon,  walking and talking about personal style. Invited by fellow bloggers, the event brought bloggers and fashion insiders together to network and share knowledge. The crowd was lively and colorful. The Walk the talk 2012 event on Saturday afternoon was hosted by Young Hip and chic.

From local bloggers, photographers, designers, styles and consuming admirers, the room was filled with lively and colorful patrons of Personal style.

The showroom 77 was an ideal location for this event. it created the perfect networking and social setting to mingle with everyone. With creative give away , chic appetizers, the food was as colorful as were the make up of people.

Like most of my days around merchandise, I try to leave the event without the urge to add to my collection at home.  As I walked, I tried to talk myself out of having to buy out of lust. But heck, its 2012 and i should know better ...ha.  

I did fall for these red sphere earrings wrapped in a gold branchlike web.   I cant wait to wear them! im excited to see what threads i could accessories them with... hmmm and i did purchase a pink and gold teardrop earring.  Okay okay that was it.  Fingers crossed, I promise  ;-)

It's in her Jeans....

Jean Shirt with High-waisted Linen Shorts

Whats on today's Check List...

A jean shirt is a must! It's great with any color and for any season. What you pair it with is the key. When you invest in one, make sure, 1. it's of good quality; it’ll be worth it for over the yrs., and 2. that jean material is light in touch and breathable.

-√ comfortable casual and perfect for running errands.

I love my new Steve Madden bag! I found it at a Pennsylvania Ross outlet for a steal! Original $108. I added this to be collection of bags for $39.99.

- √ quality & style

Thanksgiving Gear

I intended on being comfortable for Thanksgiving; no jeans, no bulky sweater, no dress, no fanciness. This is of one of those holidays that you have to "dress to indulge'. And what i mean by that is; dress with the preparation and expectation that "hmmm maybe i'm going to eat too much today. Yup, I'll definitely be eating too much today." (lol)

And what always feels like the most comfortable gear to get glutinous in?!?

T-shirt and pair sweatpants.

Heres my take on the infamous T-shirt and sweats.

A simple T-shirt (purposely bought

a size(or 2) bigger)

Slate colored stretch pants, Blue racer-back Tank, Peace scarf and newsboy hat to top me off.

These were all pieces i already had and threw together for Turkey day.

I dressed for the occasion, and sure enough ate like it was an occasion (lol)

One of the most casual & comfortable GetsUps

FYI the entire outfit (minus boots) is under $18.00 !!