Japan with Love

Images (clockwise from top left): 1. Tory Burch Japan Relief Shirt 2. Etsy Japan Tribute 3. Japan Shirt 4. Help Japan Print 5. kate spade tote 6. via dirbble 7. Rebuild Japan Shirt 8. Help Japan Poster  

The devastation in Japan has not ceased.  Just because the news coverage has waned, doesn't mean that the country is in desperate need of assistance.  Click each of the links to these prints and products to learn more about purchasing them to support the Red Cross in Japan.  All options are extremely affordable and   every little bit counts.

Est

There's a new online shelter magazine on the block and I am officially smitten.  Now, joining the ranks of Ivy & Piper, Adore, Lonny, Rue, High Gloss, and Matchbook, comes Est, an Australian publication I discovered on Claire's lovely blog.  Think Scandinavian design meets the Outback.  Yep, I'm officially in love.  And seriously, I'm never going to buy another glossy again.  With the quality of online publications these days, why waste the money and trees?  

Images via Est 

Dakota

| shirt $30 | jacket $55 | shoes $160 |

I love the look of that girl in the photo.  It's like Lady Gaga meets classic Parisian (never thought I'd ever compare those two).  At any rate, the look is timeless and edgy, and when figuring out what thrifty pieces to feature, I went straight to Dakota Collective.  That jacket is a dead wringer for one in the photo above, and while I couldn't find those rad leopard shoes, those cut-outs and laces are totally classic with a twist.

Image via D E S I G N L O V E F E S T 

don't let em bring you down

Image via

5 Steals and a Splurge

 Happy Monday!  I had a wonderful weekend/adventure in Big Sur with friends.  Avoiding the rain, and eating delicious foods, we celebrated a friend's birthday in nature-filled and relaxing fashion.  It was perfect!  This week's thrifty blogger is Bridget from Bee Lux (the very first blog I ever read!!).  Her blog features the best beauty finds out there, plus loads of killer images.  So, needless to say, I am thrilled that she is sharing her 5 steals and a splurge!

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Piglets! Beebs here from the laid to rest, Bee Lux. Although I've taken a break from blogging, I'm still an avid follower of many. And with KC's beautiful blog pumping some serious thrifty finds, I was more than thrilled to participate in her showcase. I'm truly beauty obsessive- always searching and buying the next best beauty find (you should see my lipstick case). And in all honestly, I wanted to post only beauty goods. But I have decided to go outside my usual box and grace you with a variety of awesomeness. It was hard to narrow down, but I think you'll find a saucy mix that'll spark your fancy... somewhere. Enjoy and toodles!

 

 

1. Tocca Candle: Yma (Guava Red Currant): A delightful and invigorating scent. May seem like a waste of $16, but they burn forever and warm the house perfectly. I really am hooked. ($16 small size)

2. Maybelline ColorSensational lipstick in Coral Crush (#515): The most versatile and flattering lip color on any skin tone, for any occasion. And friendly on the purse strings.($7.99)

3. Forever 21 scarves: I never spend more than maybe $10 on a scarf, and Forever21 never fails to produce sweet and funky prints. I always receive compliments when I wear one of these...especially stripes. A tee, jeans and one of these is my weekend uniform. ($7.80)

4. Powells Books: I'm a book junkie and am continuously browsing for my next great read. Powell's in Portland has the most amazing selection and oh so affordable, new and used. Up next, The Other Wes Moore.

5. MAC Blushcreme in Posey: I can't get enough of MAC. Their cream blush is incredible and only a tiny dab goes a long way. A perfect punch of color for that natural flush.($19.50)

6. SPLURGE: MoroccanOil Light Oil Treatment (for blondes and fine hair): My splurge isn't that intense, but after years of product build-up, curling irons and color/dye, I rely on MorrocanOil Light to replenish my dry, sad locks. Dry or wet. Overnight or after a blow-dry. ($42)

Help a sista out!

via BeeLux

Lately, I've been feeling rather stagnant about the ole blog.  I'm not too sure what direction to take with it, and I am struggling to create a "Thrifty Gal" brand.  My original intent of starting this blog was to learn about the Blogger platform and figure out some basic HTML, but in the process, it has become a much needed creative outlet and has helped me develop my personal style beyond measure.  I still want to bring you thrifty alternatives in regards to fashion and interior design, but I am curious what other features you might be interested in as well.  Here are some ideas bouncing around in my head...

*thrifty product roundups (mostly home decor items/fashion trends)
*Etsy wish list
*mood boards (4-6 inspiring images that create a specific look)
*inspiring interiors (just pictures or with products to imitate the look)
*before and after interiors
*street style looks (just pictures or with pieces to imitate the "look for less")
*old is new (upcycling and DIY)
*products/artwork for a cause
*artists
*totally original content: photos of my outfits (probably just the clothes themselves....I doubt you will see me in front of the camera anytime soon), photos of my weekend, photos of interiors

I would totally appreciate you commenting below which of these features seem most interesting/useful, and PLEASE let me know what other features you might like viewing as well.  In creating a "Thrifty Gal" brand, I am struggling to find a happy medium between what my personal style is (modern, Scandinavian design, off beat prints and cuts, timeless menswear) with finding thrifty alternatives.  Sometimes I see an image that is super inspiring, but has nothing to do with finding "thrifty solutions".  What do you think?  Are there enough overpriced products being touted in the blog world, (and this is a refreshing alternative) or would you rather see my absolute favorites around the web regardless of price?  I am hoping your comments will give me just the right push I need to take this blog by the proverbial horns and direct it in a way that is the best reflection of myself.  My goal is to develop a unique brand that keeps readers coming back for more, and provides a focused message at the same time.  (Or, there is a pretty big chance I'll just look like a fool if no one responds, so help a sista out!)

Leave me hanging

What do I love more than that yellow infused bedroom up top?  Well, not much.  But if I had to pick one stand-out, thrifty design fix, it would have to be the use of those pant hangers instead of frames.  I love how casual and unexpected it looks, and as you can see, it works in the living room just as well as the bedroom.

Image 1 via sfgirbybay 2 via apartment therapy

summer shoes

| 1. Target $30 | Dolce Vita $86 | Anthropologie $118 |

Summer shoes are all over the blog world these days (check out here, here, here), and I am totally in need of some nude wedges for summer.  Normally my summers have consisted of lots of beach volleyball and outdoor time, but now that I have a big girl job, I need some appropriate summer attire that does not involve my Havaianas.  Which of these are your favorite?  Any other suggestions for summer heels?

spring has sprung

So, apparently I missed a wild and crazy rain/hail storm while I was in New York (not to brag or anything, but I enjoyed 70 degree weather while waltzing through Central Park...just sayin').  Regardless of the weekend's weather, yesterday was the first day of spring, and the shining sun made its presence  here in the bay.  These photos are totally inspiring me to update my winter wardrobe and add some flowers around my apartment.  There is just something about green and pink that screams S-P-R-I-N-G to me.  Dontcha think?

Image 1 via sfgirbybay 2 via Divorced from Reality 3 via Pinterest

5 Steals and a Splurge

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend! I was in NYC visiting my dear friend who is finishing up a grad program at NYU.  We did a million and a half things...from hip restaurants to epic shopping trips to museum hopping, it was an amazing and unforgettable trip.  To see more updates on what we did and what I saw, check my twitter (@kristencarole)!  Now, without further ado, Kim from {blending beautiful} (you may remember I have done a few guest posts myself on Kim's blog: here and here and here) is going to share her 5 steals and a splurge!

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Happy Monday, Thrifty readers!  I'm so excited to share my 5 steals and a splurge with you!  I have a major love for scoring good deals, and I had such a hard time choosing which items to feature because I love so many of them!  But I've narrowed it down... here are a few things I can't live without:

One: Print-at-home cupcake sleeves, from SweatPeaBaby!  Doesn't this make you want to throw a party?! ($4.00 for 4 patterns)

Two: My favorite hair product of ALL TIME— Kenra Platinum Silkening Gloss—smells amazing, lasts forever, and gives your hair a perfect shine without any buildup. ($11.90)

Three: I love simple frames, and Ikea is a great place to stock up and save.  My fiance and I hung some cooking utensils in this big frame and put it in our kitchen!  It's one of my favorite pieces in our home. ($24.99)

Four: Great news!  The perfect red lipstick only costs $4.49!

Five: Forever 21 is my go-to place for trendy jewelry.  I get tons of compliments on the jewelry I purchase there.  This adorable bow tie necklace is officially on my shopping list. ($2.80)

Splurge: Every girl should have at least one pair of awesome fitting jeans.  And when it comes to denim, you get what you pay for.  My current favorite pair is by Joe's Jeans and I live in them on the weekends!  (The pair you see here cost $158, but if that's not in your budget, browse second-hand stores for the same brands!  My Joe's Jeans actually came from Goodwill and cost a whopping $12!)

Thanks so much to KC for inviting me to share with you all today!!  And please come visit me at my own blog, {blending beautiful}!

closets i covet

I've got 2 blog crushes right now, and yes, they both involve closets.  I don't know if it's because I'm actually nosy at heart or what, but I seriously could stare for hours at these sites.  Both sites take a peek into a wildly stylish lady (some are film makers, editors, stylists...you get the picture), and pick her brain about how she accumulated such a divine closet.  I think I'm so hooked on these sites because perusing is the ultimate fashion daydream, pretending that these closets and their contents are mine.  I think I'll have to stick to daydreaming...yeah, that's a lot easier on my pocketbook.  Check 'em out...all images above are from Closet Visit and The Covetuer (organized by me!)

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Update: I will not be posting this Friday because I will be participating  in For Japan with Love with Utterly Engaged this Friday 3/18 for a day of silence. This tragedy is a solemn reminder that Mother Nature still reigns queen on earth, no matter how much we try to contain her.  My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Japan, and I encourage you to join me in this day of silence and  help donate. 

naked

Image 1, 2, 3

I'm not a lipstick person.  I bought my first lipstick last December, determined to have a bright red lip for the holidays.  It was not a complete catastrophe mildly successful, so I decided to enlist in the help of a "professional."  Enter, Beebs.  My go-to-gal for all things beauty.  I knew my next investment was going to be a nude color (much more versatile and fool proof for a newbie like me).  She recommended the above products, and I knew they would all be winners.  I went with the NARS, since my red lipstick was the same brand, and am totally happy with my purchase.  Check out her blog for more beauty fixes (she's totally a thrifty gal at heart) and her tumblr for inspiring images. 

mirror, mirror

After looking at these 2 photos, I'm totally inspired to re-buy a couple of these simple mirrors I used in my dorm room (found at target or ikea).  These mirrors look 10 times chicer when in pairs or threes, providing visual interest and eliminating boring blank wall space without making the space seem cluttered.  Totally going to try this out.

Image 1 via delight by design 2 via sfgirbybay

be grateful

Man, I should quit complaining...

5 steals and a splurge

So...I'm super excited to launch a new Monday Feature: "5 steals and a splurge."  (Don't worry, you'll still get your fix of inspirational quotes as well...those will just come later in the day.)  Each Monday a new blogger is going to feature their 5 favorite thrifty finds, and 1 splurge-worthy item.  The point?  To inspire you all and prove that you don't need to bring in the big bucks to have killer personal style.  So without further ado, I thought I would kick things off with my own "5 steals and a splurge!"

Monogrammed Anthropologie Mugs: Perfect for a piping hot cup of cocoa, or for holding pencils at your desk, no home is complete without them.  I have the "K" and the "C"...how fitting. ($6.00 ea)

Scotch Nail Polish (in Hot Toddy): My mama got me a set of 3 colors for Valentine's Day and I am hooked on them!  No harsh chemicals, and they seriously make your nails MORE healthy. ($14.99 ea)

The Cave-Mumford and Sons: For only $0.99 on iTunes, these boys will titillate your soul with their haunting vocals and pagan beats.  Can't get enough of 'em. ($0.99)

Braided Belt: Timeless and appropriate for every season, a brown braided belt is a must-have for any wardrobe. ($45.00)


Maybelline Stiletto Liquid Liner: My go-to gal for makeup blogged about this product ages ago, and I finally got around to buying it in Brownish Black (the blackest black was too harsh for a fair lady like myself).  For a makeup klutz like me, this stuff is sent from the gods, no smudge, no wobbly lines, it's seriously fool proof. ($5.99)

SPLURGE: Le Creuset Cookware:  My foodie friend got me the Mini Cocottes for my birthday, and my bf followed suit and got me a starter set for Christmas this year.  Such a fabulous investment, I swear it makes everything taste better. (prices range)

Stay tuned until next week for Kim's 5 steals and a splurge!

Tragedy

 

My thoughts and prayers are with Japan during this horrible time.  For more images of the devastation, click here.

This and That

I love street style photos like it's nobody's business.  But sometimes those girls look so angry/annoyed/hungry and it kind of ruins the whole look.  While that cozy sweater with simple black skirt is something I definitely want to try out, it was her smile that made me take a closer look at this photo.  So share the happy, and smile more often today...and maybe someone will give you a closer look.  (For more Street Style looks, check my Pinterest board, Outfit Inspiration)

Image via Crush Cul de Sac and we heart it

sssh...it's a secret

So, I finally got around to watching Secrets From a Stylist with the ADORABLE Emily Henderson.  (The show is on HGTV on Saturday nights at 9pm, and those are images of rooms she has styled).  Not only is Emily hilarious and talented, but she breaks down her design process so anyone can follow along and imitate.  Using the concept of "layering," Emily creates interiors that are textured and rich, full of life, and a perfect reflection of the homeowners.  In just one episode I learned how to incorporate different design periods and styles into a cohesive looking room.  Seriously, this girl is a GENIUS.  And if this wasn't enough to get you hooked, Joy from oh joy! is getting an overhaul on her living room this Saturday!

images via hgtv 

Old is new: bangles

See that shiny gold bracelet above?  It was made out of string, and nuts (like from the hardware store).  Yup, string and nuts.  Pretty impressive huh?  And the instructions are easy as pie.  Get them here.  Plus, I think it would look totally bitchin' with one of these fabulous bangles below:

| fig. 001 $19.50 | fig. 002 $27.50 | fig. 003 $4.80 | fig. 004 $19.95 | fig. 005 $8.80 |

Zara for Spring

Can you even tell the difference between the Celine runway looks and Zara's lookbook?  I'm thrilled to death that minimalism is a force to be reckoned with this spring.  Can I have every single outfit? kthxbye.                    

Images via Zara and Elle

don't be a victim

via Pinterest 

I love this quote that always reminds me to make the most of the situation and never be the victim.  Hope you all had a lovely weekend.  The White Elephant Sale was a big success.  I scored 2 vintage pencil skirts each for $2.  Would love to hear if any of you got to attend and what you got!

This and That

via John Murphy Photographs

Another week has come and gone!  I'm super excited to spend some time at the White Elephant Sale this weekend in Oakland with my friend, Nicole.  For you Bay Area folks, you should totally join in on the fun!  The event is hosted by the Oakland Museum Women's Board, with all proceeds from the event going back to the museum.  The sale lasts Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm.  Get the rest of the details here. Rumor has it that you can find Frye boots for $5, and Jimmy Choo's for $30.  Unheard of, right?  I'm on the hunt for some huge frames, vintage artwork, and a starburst mirror.  Wish me luck!

In other news, I thought I would share Grace's (of Design*Sponge) "best of the best" in interiors.  Click here for the link.  And because we are totally the same person (Grace, the genius behind D*S; and me....oh, wait, maybe not...), I thought I would share with you my pinterest board of the "best of the best" in interiors according to KC!  Regardless, both links should provide heaps of inspiration, and tons of swoon worthy interiors!

Spring 2011: Preppy

via Miss Moss

So, technically, the above photo is from a Fall 2011 collection, but I think the trend is still relevant for spring.  Preppy is everywhere these days, like a waspy weekend in the Hamptons, this force de prep school is unavoidable this spring.  Since this look can sometimes be a cross between Talbot's (before Julianne Moore was their go-to gal) and the Republican National Convention, I typically steer clear.  BUT, I must admit Topshop has been pretty impressive with their fresh takes on this classic look.  And that girl below takes Geek Chic to a whole new level.  Has Steve Urkel returned from the depths of Nick-at-Nite to invade thrifty fashion everywhere? One can only hope.

via Cup of Jo

| shirt $50 | shorts $66 | pants $76 | sweater $75 | glasses $32 | shoes $65 | 

old is new

via pinterest 

I love this take on an old stiff bristled brush.  I feel like everyone has one of these lying around their bathroom (myself included) but I don't think I've ever used it.  (oops?)  But now I totally will for pens, pencils and the like...and probably should reinvest in a scrub brush.

THE hat

via Glamour (duh)

I'm been crushing over this picture for quite some time now.  Am I ridiculous for thinking I can pull off this look?  I've always loved hats.  I don't wear them nearly as often as I'd like to though.  Probably because I only own like 2 (my North Face beanie and my Fedora....so extensive, I know).  But part of me wants to be adventurous and try one of these little beauties.  Do you think it's too Indiana Jones?  Or just plain "trying too hard to look like you AREN'T trying too hard"...you know?  (That didn't even make sense to me.)  Let me know your thoughts, and what you would pair with this noggin topper.

| one $54 | two $32 | three $36 | four $45 | 

Confession: While I was putting this post together, I was thinking to myself "Gosh, that blond model looks soooo familiar.  Where do I know her from?  Does she look like some actress or something?"  But then I thought, "Oh wait, no, I've just been spending too much time on Asos.  That's how I know her."  Awk-ward.