Classic Work Ready Wear on a Budget
It's been about 10 years now but there was a time I didn't even blink when I would walk into Nordstrom or Banana Republic and buy a dress for $200.
GASP, right?! But let me make something super clear, if you spend that kind of money on a dress that is 100 percent your choice. At the time when I was spending this kind of money, I made good money but not enough to warrant those purchases and cover all the debt we had.
Something had to give. In order to change your life, you have to sacrifice something. That is the hard part with change. We can't eat ice cream, cookies and cake for all the meals and expect to be healthy just like we can't spend $200 on a dress every week and expect to see the debt bill dwindle. It doesn't work that way.
When we were getting out of debt my husband picked up overtime shifts on the fire department he works for and also re-established his pool biz he had in college. We were bringing in extra income but I knew we had to cut back and sacrifice some things to make that debt go away as fast as possible.
I worked in TV as many of you know so I could not have a #sidehustle because they own you. (p.s. if you are in need of a list of ideas, here's a list of 72 ideas my hubs put together) My work came in the way of sacrifice but I knew that I could monitor certain areas of spending with a little finesse and intention.
I knew that there had to be a way to still look GREAT on TV without the "I am on TV and have to spend this to look nice" price tag. It was the most fun challenge I ever put myself up to and to this day, nearly 10 years later, I still shop this way.
I am writing this to you right now in my $4 jeans from Wal-Mart and leopard sweater, also a Wal-Mart steal for $3! #boomshakalaka
Here is the thing, YOU can do this too. When I shop on clearance or on Amazon, I have few "fashion" rules:
Always look for black or deep gem tones. These colors look great on everyone and if the material is a little "cheaper" it is hardly noticeable in a dark solid color.
Stay away from loud patterns unless they are classic i.e. leopard or plaid...otherwise they scream "clearance."
Shop for seasonal items at the end of the season i.e. bathing suits in September.
I usually buy one size up if I am buying a less expensive piece. These types of clothes often run small so a size up will fit and flatter best.
My Tried and True Amazon Faves (and a Tar-Jay pair of shoes that I can not quit).
1. Versatile Dress and EVERYONE needs a LBD
I could not love this dress any more if I tried. Perfect for work, night out, or a special event. One word "rouching"...my greatest secret weapon for "slimming"...I always wore a dress with rouching when I didn't feel my best. SO slimming.🙌
2. 3/4 Sleeved Version
You'll want this one too...trust me. It is so classic. Never goes out of style.
3. My Go-To TV dress
No, you don't have to work on TV to love this dress...trust me, you will love it! I have the navy one and I pair it with nude heels. Classic and GORGEOUS!
4.
One shouldered Jumpsuit
Okay, so I bought this a couple of months ago...it was $10 but that specific one is SOLD OUT so I found another version, however it is in the $30 range but still a must for a night out or fun event. It looks amazing on everyone and it has pockets...the Lord's gift to us! P.S. I bought this in black.
5. Nude Pump
I will wear a nude heel or pump with ANYTHING. They are nude for a reason, they go with anything but more than that, want in on a secret? They are the most slimming with anything. ANYONE looks good in a nude heel. If you remember my TV days, I wore them almost like a uniform.
6.Another Amazing Nude Shoe
This is my go-to with jeans, skirts, dresses or dressy shorts...again, nude is HALLELUJAH AH-MAZE-balls! P.S. they come in leopard...yes, Jesus loves us. (I am dramatic. You know this by now and accept me). These are Tar-Jay, I will buy them in every color eventually but I can not quit my nude obsession.
7.Snake Skin Pumps
Another staple...snake skin for the W-I-N! I have a pair I bought on clearance at Nordstrom Rack years ago. They are Sam Edelman and FAB but original price is HIGH so I found these super similar ones on Amazon. They come in red too. Oh hey girl!
8.Black High Waisted Skirt
You know my love for all things high waisted, right? Well, the love is just as deep for a skirt as it is for leggings. This is a staple. You need a black skirt for all the things.
A simple list of some of my GO-TO'S for work or special events. When you stick with simple, it never goes out of style. When in doubt always go with classics. Plus, they go with EVERYTHING.
As always, I will always be transparent with you. I do earn a small commission if you buy through the link I have given you but if that doesn't make you feel comfortable you can search yourself and buy through your own link.
I appreciate your friendship and trust and loyalty. YOU are the real deal, sista!
Happy Shopping!
These are awesome tips. Lord knows I need a new wardrobe and even though I can’t work, its nice to.have the options for different occasions
YES! It always feels good to have something new. xoxo!
Love that you give your bargain shopping details! I am also an avid bargain shopper! Nothing in my closet I paid over $50 for (and that was a stretch). I love to add versatile items and the jumpsuit is amazing! I am sure it will go great with my cheetah print version of the Target nude heel 🙂
I love it!! You are my kind of girl, Stephanie! XOXO
Omg. Thank you for this
You are so welcome! xoxo
Thank God you are not at Fox morning news anymore. Syleste Rodriguez is more talented and professional than you were and she is a lot hotter, too. The chemistry between her and Troy is also better. And seeing the way you handled money, she’s obviously a lot smarter, as well. I can see why a couple of other people have even said the same thing in their FOX10 internet reviews.
I sure hope that finding my website and making sure I knew your distaste for me made you feel better. You are absolutely entitled to see me in the way you choose. So happy that you are happy now with the show. Hope your day rocks, David!!!