What We Bought: Payless and Bob's and PATTERNS, oh my!

We are utterly addicted to solids- we admit it. We have a very hard time branching away from our saturated jewel tones. This weekend, however, we headed into Bob's to pick up a few basic tees and things from the clearance rack, since our Old Navy ones from a few years back are starting to look a little ratty (and we notice a general dearth of non-revealing tops in our collection... we're tired of feeling weird about spaghetti straps in the office because the a/c isn't working and we have to take off our cardigan quite often while running around...), and we're very, very proud of ourselves for having picked up not one but two tops with a print!

Here are some of our scores:

At Payless, with the BOGO 1/2 off sale, we got these cute little velvet flats for fall for $4.00:

Unfortunately the other pair we fell in love with wasn't even close to on sale, so we spent more than we like to at Payless ($24.99), and also had to buy a 6 1/2 even though we know they'll be rough to walk in, because the 7s slipped off the back too much... so we'll probably regret this, but we couldn't resist the platform and color and ruffle and perfect, perfect heel... 

So in case you're counting too, that's our third pair of purple pumps. Obsession, anyone? We did almost buy some pointy-toed hot pink faux-leather 80s ones, too. Someone probably needs to have those- we just knew we'd get too matchy-matchy with them since we've been really into hot pink lately...

We bought a couple of cute flutter-sleeve tees for $5 each, with a great square neckline and shape, which you will no doubt be seeing in outfits to come soon. Super-summery without being revealing, and made from renewable rayon-- we are pretty much in love. Hot pink and deep violet, of course. And we went a little obmre-crazy with a pink v-neck and a purple smocked-waistband skirt, too ($5.00/$15.00 respectively). 

But now, the moment you've all been waiting for-- the patterns!

First, an uber-flattering meshy surplice top with side-tie detailing in this crazy loud psychedelic print that would terrify us if it weren't our favorite colors all in one. $10

Lastly, we took ourselves far out of our comfort zone with a tube top (it has a shelf bra so there is some support going on) in coral with a pretty glittery floral pattern painted onto the front ($10.00). At some point we're going to need someone to tell us we're too old for glitter. Not yet, though. 

We hope you're proud of us. We highly recommend the Bob's clearance rack right now, if you have one nearby. Most of the tops were less expensive than our local Goodwill. There are also hundreds of bikinis on final sale for about $10 a piece, and we think every girl needs multiple swimsuits, so if you wouldn't blind people by showing your stomach in public like us, snap some up!

Happy Shopping!

Cute and Cheap: Old Navy Clearance

We love clearance (in case you hadn't noticed). In-store clearance, online clearance-- it doesn't matter, as long as we're getting something for close to its actual fabric cost, or 90% off original price, or anything else brag-worthy (we want people to know we didn't spend a lot to look so awesome ;) ). We were not aware that Old Navy had online-only deals, nor that they offered expanded sizing there (hello, petites and talls!), so we were excited to see (after a fellow blogger recommended them) these cardigans, normally $26.50 , on clearance in the petite length for only $9.99!

4 colors! 5 sizes! Just make sure you click "petite." In a sweater, surely you could get away with pretending it was made to be cropped and elbow-length, if you're taller?

We can't help but love this non-clearance front-page offering (does that mean everyone will have it like that lavender haphazard-tier Target skirt we have that we see all of the time? Ack) of a tiered, smocked -waistband prairie skirt with lovely white embroidery (although 'twould be nice if one could be confident said embroidery was done by someone who was compensated fairly for their work... :worried face: - they don't give country of origin online.)


Someone on Etsy makes something just as cute or way cuter, but probably not for $26.50. Ah, the perpetual juxtaposition of conscience and wallet...

Maybe something vintage instead? There is this cool vintage ribbon-trim one from PastandPresents for $25...


But back to the clearance... the maxi dresses are starting to go on sale so even though people are starting to talk about fall (heaven forbid), you might want a hot pink or black one in a tie-tube-top style at $19.99 before the dog days of summer.

We love lace-trim camis for layering and these (below) come in an astoundingly terrific 10 colors (all of which we adore); they're 2/$15, and in tall and petite several (other!) colors are discounted even further! They're jersey knit with 6% spandex, so they probably feel totally fantastic against your skin. (We hope, 'cause we're grabbing a bunch if they're still around come next pay cycle).

They've also got 6 colors of Hawaiian-y floral burnout-pattern scarves for $10:

Or if you're more of a solids kind of a girl, this one is also $10 (down from $12.50) and in 12 colors:



$6 for shelf bra camis (15 colors!) isn't bad at all- Vicky's and Express' are usually $15 or so.


Who knew ON carried yoga mats? Guess we haven't been in for a while. These hibiscus-print mats in 3 colors are on sale (slightly) for $12
We think this flower-print fabric hobo bag is pretty adorable, for only $10 too (also available in some stripey-preppy situations that are... "NOS" [not our style], shall we say):


We didn't even know they had shoes that weren't flip-flops, so imagine our surprise at encountering these covet-worthy espadrilles, shown here in our favorite color combo of course but also in neutrals, black & white stripe- $12.99- and then black, and yellow stripes, $15.99.

Hope we found some steals you might not have otherwise. Happy shopping!

What We Bought! Metrostyle Clearance Naughtiness

So we were admiring AudraJean's amazing leather steampunk belts last night, and lamenting that our budget could never possibly allow us to own such a thing (never mind that we're still trying to warm up to the idea that belts in general could look alright on us). Then we remembered that we showed you that super-hot, super-cheap plastic version from Metrostyle not too long ago... so we went to look if it was still available, and yes! Still $8. Of course we couldn't stop ourselves from clicking on the clearance link and then the $9.99 and under link... who could resist?!

Here's what we have on order now:

Vegan patent corset belt, $8

Satin party skirt, $10:

Layering cami, $5.99

French cuff button-down with princess seams, $6.99

Purple jeans! (6 other colors, 3 lengths!) $9.99


2-pack of tights (ours are deep royal blue!) $6.99


Lace-sleeve detail sweater, $12.99


Sterling filigree ring, $12.99

We wouldn't normally buy jewelry- since we make it- that's not handmade or at least purchased from an independent purveyor. But that price!!! We couldn't help ourselves.

We could have kept going and going because there are pages and pages of stuff under the $6.99, $9.99 and $14.99 price points (right-click "open in a new window" on each price to link to the whole section!), but we figured $88 was enough to spend for one night! Someone needs to pry our debit card out of our overtired hands at times like this ;)

We can't wait for it all to arrive and hope you find some awesome stuff too! Happy shopping!

Are You Kidding Us? Lady Language

Many thanks to Audi at FashionForNerds for the mention of LadyLanguage, where we just discovered this Marilyn-inspired LBD for a staggering clearance price of $5.


The site could use some re-tooling (an advertised but not hotlinked clearance/sale section is nowhere to be found, nor is sorting by price an option, necessitating rifling through-- or letting the Thrifty Stylist do it for you), but there are some amazing prices here. Unfortunately the sizing is pretty limited at as well: only S, M, L (junior measurements). We apologize if this is a frustrating post for you (we've been there, girl... do you remember the store 5-7-9?)!

We're rather obsessed with dresses right now so we'll show you some more!

How about a coral strapless 50s-inspired embroidered circle skirt option for only $14?



Or perhaps you are a girl who likes a bold, kaleidoscopic floral in a precious flocked-bodice sundress? Divine, is it not? 100% cotton and only $22.00...


...And we're pretty much dying over the exquisite eyelet-and-ruffle detailing on this gorgeous bright orangey coral tube dress, $24- which we envision with a white cardigan at the office- what do you think? (We also saw this one in a maizey-yellow).


For inexpensive work basics or layering, we found this rich burgundy dolman-sleeve pointelle sweater for $12 (check out the link for the cool back collar detailing!):


We are forever looking for cheap tights to stock up on for fall and spring since we wear so many skirts, and these sweater tights certainly fit the bill, in 6 colors, only $4! (But we're not so thrilled that their "one size fits all" says up to 165 lbs. Sorry to our taller and curvier sisters).


We also love this precious puff-sleeve tee with button detailing at the shoulders, fairly inexpensive at $17.


We hope you enjoy these finds! We'll be checking out Lady Language every once in a while to see if more of the cute stuff has gone on clearance, since a few of the very loveliest dresses are still way out of our range. Happy shopping!

Rainbow Romance: Lucky Finds

We came home from vacation to find our first two issues of Lucky magazine!

When we had first heard about a shopping magazine, we were highly skeptical. However, Etsy members were offered a super-cheap subscription, complete with free faux-black leather mini-tote (aaah! We can't resist a freebie!), so we decided to subscribe-- just in case we were missing any fabulous deals for our readers (and also in case we decide to care briefly about what's popular rather than just what's gorgeous to us).

We are thrilled that we "splurged", as we've already discovered a couple of fantastic thrifty resources and were inspired to search for less pricey alternatives to a few luscious pieces we spotted.

We just ordered two of these chiffon handkerchief-hem skirts to layer under shorter skirts.

What a fabulous solution for those just-too-short pieces and to add some extra color to an outfit! (OK we admit we ordered one in black... we couldn't help it). $16.10 at discountdance.com - Lots of colors, and so cheap... can't wait to incorporate them!


Apparently Forever21 has launched a new line called Love 21 that is, quite frankly, a little bit less slutty (longer hems, flowier fabrics, as Lucky says). We absolutely adore this dress in caution orange which is making us possibly consider lifting the ban on orange in our personal wardrobe!

It also comes in a hot turquoise they're calling jade... This cut is so universally flattering, and you really can't beat the price of $22.80 and the semi-synthetic fiber (rayon- did you know it was made from cellulose, not oil like nylon?)


One of the most adorable trends in the "spotlight" was bustier dresses, and we love this flirty but innocent-looking pale yellow eyelet-trim version:

This one is cotton and viscose (another semi-synthetic made from fibrous organic material rather than oil), from Charlotte Russe. At $29.99 it just about busts our summer-dress budget but the detailing is awfully cute and very similar to a Calvin Klein we tried on at Marshall's that was still $50 even on clearance.


They found and we loved a watery-print dress by Necessary Objects for $57 (that now seems to be sold out), but this fantastic skirt from Forever21 captures the same spirit for only $17.80!

Target has a new designer/brand, Tracey Feith, turning out really super cute, flirty dresses. We weren't the biggest fans of the floral one Lucky chose, but this adorable cobalt and purple-- with more eyelet-trim-- spaghetti-strap one makes us very happy, especially with the zipper to harden up all of that ruffling.
Again, slightly expensive for our personal tastes at $31.48 but keep an eye on it and surely that clearance price will continue to drop.


They also featured a gorgeous cobalt tie-dye swimsuit (pictured in link only) that hurt our theoretical pocketbook, even at 30% off the original $128, so we sought out something similar, and found what we think might even be more beautiful!



Apparently Amazon carries Newport News clearance. Who knew? This one in ombre multicolor is $39.00, down from $59.00.


We had never heard of WindsorStore.com, which seems to have a pretty awesome selection, and while there are plenty of pricey pieces, we found this absolutely demure and delectable little purple floral on sale for $29.00. Not bad!


As always, hope you love the finds- can't wait to hear from you- and happy shopping!

Unbelievable Shoe Steals

Thanks to another fashion blogger (sadly we've forgotten which) who turned us onto UrbanOriginal (http://www.urbanog.com/). The site is a bit overwhelming so we'll start with just great shoes $10 and under today.

Lots of pairs are (sadly) available in only one size (this is clearance, after all), but if you're lucky enough to be that size, score! ...Like these sexy gladiator-ish stilettos in bright pink for FOUR DOLLARS! But only if you're a size 9. Le sigh.

For our tiny sisters, these black gladiator-inspired Mary Janes- size 6 only- are only $7 (Also available in brown size 8):

Have you been wanting to add a little extra brightness to your outfits? How about some sunny yellow platform wedges with precious bow detailing? In sizes 9 and 10 at $8:

Another bright option is this crazily Fleuvog-y pump in orange and red wingtip, only $8, sizes 5 1/2, 6 and 7 1/2:


If you're a wee lass really into the gladiator thing (we don't quite get it but understand many people are!) and/or the metallic trend for the summer, check out these tall silver strappy sandals, $9 in sizes 5 1/2 and 6 1/2:


More bright wedges, for sizes 8 1/2 or 9, $9. Every girl needs some hot pink shoes, don't you think?


We love platforms for the extra height without the killing of our feet. These ones might be a tad on the extreme side, but the toned-down maroon red keeps them out of trampy territory. Available in whole and half sizes 6 to 9, $9:

If you're willing to venture out of the $10 range, there are literally hundreds of pairs of shoes here. Not to mention other apparel (stay tuned for another blog!)

Enjoy the finds and happy shopping!

P.S. The site is currently offering free shipping on all orders $50+ within the continental US! Enter code FREESHIP during checkout! Bonus bonus!

Sunday Steals and Deals: The $15 Store

Have you heard of this place? (15dollarstore.com). Are we late on the uptake?
It's geared toward juniors, and as we've mentioned we probably shouldn't be looking for that kind of stuff, but $15! Every single thing. They seem to be remnants from somewhere-- they have original prices and everything is marked way down. Even if it's just a marketing ploy, Wow.
We won't vouch for the quality until we order something, but when we get paid at the end of the month, we're pretty sure we know where at least $45 is going:

This ombre empire-waist dress with beaded trim, in two gorgeous colors, looks pretty short, but for those of us who aren't teenagers anymore it could look adorable over a contrasting longer skirt or petticoat, yes?

ombre dress $15 store by ThriftyStylist on Polyvore.com

We're always on the lookout for a bargain for next season, so even though we detest the idea of a sweater actually on us at this moment, these gorgeously saturated fuchsia and purple options-- one cashmere, the other two so girly it slays us-- have us awaiting our paycheck with the zeal of a giddy child on Christmas Eve.

Fall Bright Sweaters $15 by ThriftyStylist on Polyvore.com

If you're in the market for a new coat for fall, can you even believe they're selling a real suede trench for $15? In sand and "almond" brown, we're not sure we can personally pull it off, but dear readers, you do have to snap it up. Actually, it might look snazzy over an interview outfit so perhaps we should take the plunge. It's not a very painful one.

Suede Mini-Trench $15 by ThriftyStylist on Polyvore.com

We mentioned that we've been seeking another alternative to our regular black lace cardigan; we do have a few shawls and pashminas, but we're definitely eyeing these three options (especially that burnout velvet, oh, my).

Romantic Cover-ups by ThriftyStylist on Polyvore.com

We suspect the junior sizing will run small. We haven't gone so far as to see if they have a sizing chart. We're still giddy from browsing. Although we admit that we're sharing the creme de la not much at all. But maybe your tastes aren't as specific and you'll find more... However, these deals are a good enough start to have us excited for a new place to order. We'll report back.

Let us know if you enjoyed the finds, and definitely if you've ever shopped there!

Tuesday Croc Love

Did we scare you with that title? We're talking about the only acceptable "Croc" on feet that aren't 5 years old, nursing, or gardening: Croc-embossed!


Today we're wearing nearly the same outfit as this one from last week, except with a black top instead of the turquoise, and purple tights and (different) purple heels! Sorry for lack of a photo but it's better this way- that mirror at our man's house is so.freaking.awful. We do promise that once we figure out where we're living in September, we'll create a proper space for taking real photographs with a real camera so you don't have to squint anymore!

We used to have a thing against pointy-toed shoes, until we discovered that they elongate the legs of stumpy folks like us. Always a good thing. Hopefully the monochromatic tights/shoes will make us look a million miles tall. Ha.

These beautiful Sam & Libby pumps were a Famous Footwear find, if we recall, probably $15 or so. We can't turn down a cute pair of heels, even if they're a bit on the snug side in the toe box. These are sitting-at-your-desk shoes, not walkin' shoes. But that's OK.

We are so done with black shoes for a while. We'll always love our black boot collection best of all, but summer is for color!!! Are you trying to buy more colorful shoes?

Friday Steals and Deals: MetroStyle

We're sort of hyperventilating over here. While searching for a cheap velvet blazer, we came upon MetroStyle.com and their amazing clearance section. We wanted to share some of our crazy-thrifty finds...

How about $10-$15 for jeans? (Depending on color- they come in several! Different lengths, too!)

$10 converible sandals that you can wear as slides, or attach the ankle strap (ingenious!)

$8-$10 for this adorable ruffly sundress (just look at those princess seams! Phenomenal)!

Only $8 for this incredible vegan patent corset belt which would really funk up an outfit!
$10 for velvet jeans? (These would so be ours if didn't need the petite length!) Wow.

Moving out of the $10 range, this $15 linen/rayon-blend maxi dress has wood bead detailing at the neckline for a double-trend-whammy (maxi length + ethnic detailing = score!)


Stock up on sexy sweaters for fall now, since you really can't beat the $13 price tag and 6 color options in this surplice version:
If you, too, are trying to add a little bit more bold color in with your fondness (obsession?) for black, try this skirt with bright goring at the hem, also only $13:


How about a $12 jean jacket in one of the hottest colors for summer, coral? (Also in bright yellow "gold")
Here's another stunning sweater option at $15, although sadly we can't promise that it will do anything this incredible for your ass. *Sigh* don't we wish.
And $20 for a skirt suit! The jacket has 3 buttons and the seaming we discussed last post... it's polyester, and only the ivory is lined, but it's $20 for two pieces!
Lastly, why not liven up your boring black pump collection with some gorgeous teal or purple platform peeptoes for $20??

Now please excuse us while we go fill up our shopping cart :D

Let us know what you think of these finds and if you buy anything!