5 Steals and a Splurge

Happiest of Mondays, dear readers!  I hope you were able to find some rest and relaxation over the quick weekend...can you believe we are almost in July??  I spent Saturday at the Treasure Island Flea market (check photos here) and absolutely LOVED it!  I highly recommend it, especially to you Alameda junkies...this place is pure magic.  Sunday was super relaxing and I was able to get caught up on a few things and get organized for the week ahead.  Today's guest post is from the incredible Jennifer from I ART U...my go to blog for all things design related (not to mention, J is a FABULOUS photographer, and always has the prettiest images on her blog).  Her 5 steals and a splurge are no disappointment, per usual, I want everything she picked out!

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Hi! I'm Jennifer from I ART U and I'm embracing summer to the max! Who's with me?! Here are my picks for five summer steals and a splurge. Thanks for having me KC!

1 With all the beach time, soap is a necessity. Good-smelling, handmade soap that is! Soap Sample Set of 6 by Morning Calm, $4

2 Boxed Water? No words necessary. Boxed Water is Better, click here to find a box.

3 With more free time on hand, I'm thinking handwritten letters and mini packages for friends is a must. Midori Kraft Envelopes-pack of six, $8 

4 Cool down with a gelato popsicle! Bar Gelato, find yours here.

5 Calm those sun-kissed lips with some from-the-earth lip balm. Delightful and soothing.  Organic Lip Balms-4 tubes, $22

And what's a little thrifty shopping without a splurge? I love this Asos Premium Leather Color-Block Shopper, $129

Bring it on, summertime! -J.

5 Steals and a Splurge

It's time for a re-do.  It's my blog and I'll do what I want to...While I still stand by my original 5 steals and a splurge, after seeing all of these fabulous ladies share their ideas, I want a re-do.  So people, here you have it, my new and improved 5 steals and a splurge (and not to worry, regular scheduled programing with other bloggers will resume next week).

1. Strings of lights- Not only for Christmastime anymore.  White lights year round make everyday merry and bright.
2. Sparkling water- For whatever reason, I always feel more fancy drinking sparkling water rather than still water.  I don't like soda, so this is my favorite refreshment for hot summer days.
3. Maxi dresses- Perfect for day or night, warm or cool.  Pair it with boots or sandals, add a scarf or an arm full of bangles, this is the most versatile thing I own.
4. Mason jars- Fill em with grains, flowers, or votives, they make any display seem unexpectedly special.
5. American Apparel clutch- While I would love a Clare Vivier clutch, this waaaay more affordable substitute will totally do the trick.  Plus, they come in a whole plethora of colors.
SLURGE: Lo and Sons O.G. bag-  I've been on the hunt for a versatile school bag for this fall.  I'm predicting extra long hours ahead spending days at a time on campus, and I need a bag that will not only carry my books, but also pack the rest of my life with me.

5 Steals and a Splurge

Happy Monday!  Kelley and I decided to take an impromptu trip to LA to celebrate a friend's birthday, visit my bf, and get some LA sun!  We hiked up near the Hollywood sign yesterday, and have big plans to lounge at the beach today (and of course get some work done).  Today's guest post is from Tamuna of her lovely blog, A Journey to Style.  I love the images Tamuna uses, especially her mood boards and Tuesday Travels that always transport me to a far off land. 

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Hi there lovely Urban Gals, it's Tamuna from A Journey to Style  and I'm going to share my 5 Steals and a Splurge summer essentials with you.

#1 - MAC Lipstick in Hue $14.50 - I love wearing nude shades of lipstick in summer and this MAC liptsick is a staple for me.
#2 - The Body Shop Bronzing Powder $18.50 - This is an amazing bronzer for a great price.  I use it all year round and have repurchased it many times.  A bit of bronzer is a great way to add some tan and glow to the face without having to spend hours out in the Sun.
#3 - Zara Layered Cotton Dress $39.90 - Cotton dresses are essential for me in summer - they're easy to throw on and feel feminine and lightweight.  I also like to style them with a simple brown leather belt to accentuate the waist.
#4 - Netflix Movies $7.99 - $20 - I look forward to weekend movie nights with my fiance -it's a great way to rewind after a long day at work.
#5 - Fiji Water - $2.50 - $4 - I love drinking water, but I especially love Fiji water. I take a one liter bottle to work and drink it throughout the day.
#6 - Ivanka Trump Sandals $99-$69 - For my splurge item I chose these gorgeous sandals - I've been looking for the perfect pair of summer sandals for a while and I found them! I think they're gorgeous and versatile enough to pair with weekend clothes and also wear them to work.

5 Steals and a Splurge

Happy Monday!  Hope you all had a relaxing weekend and are ready for the week ahead.  Today's guest post is from Tobe of the blog Because It's Awesome.  I love Tobe's blog for her great curation of interior images and graphic design.

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Hello! Tobe here from Because It's Awesome, thrilled that KC is having me here to share my 5 steals and a splurge. I'm a sucker for home decor and fashion accessories, so I've pulled together some of my current faves. Enjoy!

1 West Elm Porcelain Soapdish :: For a mere $6, this dish is a great way to add a hit of pattern to your bathroom, or any other space in the house. As a chronic collector, I've learned that trays have a way of making even the most random of collectibles look intentional.

2 Kate Spade Gumdrop Studs :: My closet tends to be heavy on the neutrals, so I add a huge hit of color to my outfit with a pair of these $38 beauties. Also among my favorites are the pink and black varieties.

3 Forever21 Wild Side Bangles :: Tried and true, animal prints will always be a classic. If you're scared to invest, these bangles are a safe bet at less than $7.

4 Gladiator Brass Ankle Chain :: I couldn't get over these shoe harnesses when I first came across them. Talk about an amazing way to add instant style and edge to your favorite heels! An inexpensive game-changer for only $43.

5 Scotch Naturals Polish :: What's there to say? A $15 pop of color on the nails feels feminine and can pack a real punch. This shade of magenta is bold and bright, and suitable for any season.

the Splurge :: Jayson Home and Garden Sheesha Pillows :: These have been on my list for quite some time. At $250 and $395, they might never make it to my home, but a girl can sure dream.

5 Steals and a Splurge

(Thought I would share this post that was meant to go live on Monday, while I get my life in gear after my loooong weekend.  Plus, late is better than never, right?)  Happy Memorial Day!  I had a rockin' time in San Diego with my bf and old college friends.  Today's 5 Steals and a Splurge is from the oh so lovely Mackenzie from Design Darling.  Mackenzie's blog features bright and cheery interiors, and my favorite feature:  101 in 1,001 days.  You should totally check it out and make your own list!

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Hi there! I'm Mackenzie from Design Darling and I'm excited to share my five steals and a splurge with you all today. 

1. First up is this Paper Source address book ($31). One of the goals on my 101 in 1001 list is to start an address book for all my family and friends. Especially since I just graduated from college and my friends are now dispersed all over the country, I think this would be a fantastic purchase!

2. I love these Sweet Lulu party favor boxes ($8 for four). Obviously they're intended for a children's party but I think they're perfect for a summer garden party as well.

3. These Forever 21 platform wedges ($23) are a major steal. The wood wedge is a trend I can totally get behind and the navy color is an unexpected alternative to black or tan. Plus the price can't be beat! 

4. I swear I'd wear these Loren Hope earrings ($40) every day year-round. Loren is one of my blog sponsors, the biggest sweetheart, and an extremely talented designer to boot! I literally want everything in her summer collection.

5. This Janet Hill print ($26) is pretty, sparkly, and affordable. That's what we call a win-win-win :)

6. This Rebecca Minkoff jacket ($325) is definitely splurge-worthy. It flew off the virtual shelves at Shopbop and I can totally see why! Its punchy color and tailored silhouette make it the perfect topper for your summer sundress.

Thank you so much for having me, KC!

5 Steals and a Splurge

Hello, hello!  Happy Monday!  This weekend was relaxing and hilarious all rolled up into one.  I saw Bridesmaids, and I have to tell you...hands down, funniest movie you'll see all year.   Hopefully my saying that won't ruin the experience for you, but I enjoyed so much, I already can't wait to watch it again.  Today's 5 steals and a splurge is from my dear friend Kelley.  Long time followers of this blog may remember her from antics at McCovey Cove during the world series or from outings at the Alameda Flea Market, but to me, she is a dear friend and uber talented photographer.

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Hey guys! Kelley here, I'm excited to be guest posting for KC and Thrifty Solutions for an Urban Gal in this week's 5 steals and splurge. My thrifty solutions aren't quite fashion or home decor but photo fun!

1) instagram - free - Even as a professional photographer, I don't always bring my "real" camera with me, or I do, but I also want to share on Twitter (twitter.com/kelleylcox) where I am instantly. Instagram is free and has fun filters, my fav is Lord Kelvin. 

2) Prints - $0.39 for 5x7: It's fun to click through albums you posted to facebook, but why not print em out! Even if you don't display them, it's great to own a collection of personal prints.

3) Frames - $1.99 Thrift Stores. I love to buy picture frames at thrift stores, take them home, paint them black (like Mick Jagger) and add them too my ongoing frame wall project. Can add images or not, and can also add mirrors, clocks, etc. With monochromatic prints and one color paint, it doesn't get too busy.

4) Zenfolio - $50/yr : Even consumer cameras are capable of beautiful high res images..that also means the files are larger and since hard drives inevitably crash, cloud storage is getting big. $50/yr for unlimited storage, hosting, pro add ons, and great customer serivce. I use it for my personal photo site, my new photo venture Collegiate Photos, and even to sell second-hand items for Treesures.

5) Camera Ring - $10: Alright, here's my fashionable bit. A fun camera ring. Shooting sports and constantly kneeling and running around, I can't quite get away with cute skirts and stilettos. So I express myself with no-hassle accessories =)

Splurge

Canon 50mm f/2.8 Compact Macro -$299.99 this lil baby will help you break away from that kit lens you've been using on your DSLR. Way less expensive than some of it's $1K+ brothers so it's still a lil thrifty. For you fashionistas, this is a perfect versatile lens for photographing full body portraits (ex: someone you might recognize) and close up accessories both shot with my 50mm.

5 Steals and a Splurge

Happy Monday, all!  Sorry for the lack of post on Friday.  It was a ridiculously hectic day and Blogger was being less than cooperative.  But for now, I am free as a bird! Friday was my last day of full-time work and now I am working part time for my company and get to work on a few of my own projects before school starts in the fall.

Today's guest post is from the witty and thrifty Christina from Down and Out Chic.  Christina's blog is a great mix of soothing interiors and thrifty fashion finds, and I always leave her blog feeling so inspired! 

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Hi Urban Gals, I'm Christina from Down and Out Chic, and I think it's safe to say that I live for the thrill of a good thrifty find. Below are some of my favorite finds for the season and a splurge that has a permanent place on my wish list.

1). The 5x7 "zigzag" printed rug ($69) comes in three great shades and the chevron pattern is fun and modern. I love the softness of this sea foam color. 

2) I recently purchased this black maxi dress from F21 ($10) an it is undoubtedly one of the most comfortable articles of clothing I own. The silhouette is flattering and can be dressed up or down. I don't generally have a lot of luck at F21 so I was pleasantly surprised by this dress. I think I might need to stock up on multiples! 

3) A classic fedora is a must for days when my hair refuses to behave or when I want to add a bit of edge to a frilly dress. This cuban style by The Hatter Co. ($7.99) definitely fits the bill. 

4) This handmade, cheeky leather bunting necklace ($12.50) by Super Duper Things is fun yet the gold is slightly sophisticated. I'd wear it with just about anything.

5) I bought these Deena & Ozzy sandals ($39) recently and have been wearing them nonstop. They're comfortable and have a flattering shape. Definitely order a half size down as they run a bit large. 

6) The Eames molded plastic arm chair ($349) is a splurge both my husband and I can agree on. It's timeless and my home will forever feel unfinished without one. (Big Sigh).

5 Steals and a Splurge

Hello dear readers!  Did you all have a lovely Mother's Day?  My weekend was incredibly relaxing, which I am so thankful for, since the next few days are going to be beyond hectic.  Please bear with me as posts might be few and far between this week while I pack up all of my belongings (yet again) in preparation for moving on Saturday.  Today's guest post is from the oh so sparkly Roxy from My Cup of Te.  Roxy is such an inspiration to me as she launches her own business Society Social which features gorgeous bar carts and cocktail attire.  Society Social is all about "living sparkly, living life like a celebration, valuing vivacious, lively and legendary more than words but a way of life."  I think I can drink to that! 

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Enchanté Thrifty readers! I'm so delighted that KC asked me over for her 5 Steals and a Splurge series. I have so enjoyed taking furious notes on the ladies who have spilled their "6" before me! After all, isn't it incredibly fun to find stylish, yet clever ways to update your life without spending all your pretty pennies? Well without further delay here are my deals, steals, and THE splurge taunting me from my wish list!

1. Pretty polish is my addiction. For $8 you can feel fresh and polished! Essie's Summer 2011 Collection Braziliant.
2. I love to entertain at home and a cheery set of cocktail napkins are just the thing to brighten up my cocktails without splurging on the Moet!
3. I often look to Sephora for a low priced pick me up. Can't afford the Chanel purse? Buy the lipstick and feel equally fab! My go-to pink is Nars Schiap available at Sephora.
4. I do heart my Tory B's, but Marais USA has the most darling flats! The price can't be beat for the style and comfort! Mary Jane Bow Flats by Marais USA.
5. Books, books, books!! My latest purchases have been cookbooks and next up on my list is Super Natural Everyday by Heidi of one of my fave blogs 101 Cookbooks. You can find it on Amazon for $13.80!

The SPLURGE!!
With all the traveling I've been doing lately for my soon-to-be business Society Social, it's high time for me to invest in a lasting and stylish (duh ;) luggage set. My trusty rolly has stuck with me from Europe to Asia and beyond, but he's sadly falling apart. I'm dying for anything from the Safari Collection by Globe-Trotter!

5 Steals and a Splurge

Today's guest post is from someone who probably knows me better than anyone...my mama!  I consider my mom one of my closest friends, and am so thankful for all of the support and love she has given me throughout my life.  Though I will never understand her fascination (bordering on obsession) with cars, I am still so excited for my dear mum to share with you all her picks for a fabulous Mother's Day... plus some words of  motherly wisdom.

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Hi sweet KC.  Thank you for the opportunity to share my 5 steals and a splurge.  As Mother’s Day approaches, I reflect on my appreciation and joy in having two wonderful adult children.   You have survived and epitomized my mantras:  Never pay a finance charge.  You only own what you don’t owe. Be conscious in your relationships.  Don’t live a “supposed to life”. Keep your love of music and nature in your heart.  Stand for something.  Equality for all!

Rosy Rings - Apple Spice Candle – $49.00 If you want 200 hours of wonderful smelling home coziness, this candle is a must have. 

Bird feeder – $39.95 Why cage a bird when you can have an unenclosed aviary outside your window? This feeder has a spring to keep away squirrels and large birds.

Kayaking the Monterey Bay –  $30 (3 hours). Kayak from the Santa Cruz wharf.  The kayak is put IN and OUT of the water for you.  Pick a low tide and cruise under the wharf to see scores of colorful sea stars.   Get up close and personal (stay outside 100 feet) to see otters, seals and sea lions.  For those of you not near the ocean, kayak your lakes, dams or waterways. 

Awkward Family Photos - $15.00 by Mike Bender and Doug Chernack – To laugh out loud or  simply to put a smile on a curmudgeon, this is the book.

Tulips – Two bunches for $15.00.  Tulips can brighten any room, any mood, any time.

Splurge – Chrome Wheels – M2 Momos  ~$650.  I love wheels.  If you drive a Versa or a Bugatti, wheels are the “hairdo” of any car.

5 Steals and a Splurge

Happy Monday lovely readers! Did you have a wonderful Easter?  I stuffed myself to the gills with sweets and am still full now, Monday morning!  Today's guest post is by the lovely Sarah Gabler from her blog, "design me daily."  Sarah is my go-to-gal for all things design related.  She always finds the best graphic designs and brings her own personal style to every post.  Check out her picks for a thrifty summer vacay!

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Hey urban gals! I am so so excited to be sharing my list of 5 Steals and a Splurge with you guys. Especially because summer is coming up and what better way to start ‘er off than with some summer getaway deals! Here’s a list of my fav steals for this summer’s perfect vacation (or staycation, whichever you choose!) and of course the ultimate splurge.

one.

ASOS Racerback Summer Dress ($35) is the first on my list because it is perfect for a summer getaway. It’s lightweight and easy to transport, plus it’s super versatile. Whether you’re going to dinner or the beach, this dress will look flawless!

two.

These Aldo MIKA oxfords ($50) are so cute and feminine. Plus, they’re practical for all of those walking tours you’re bound to get roped into!

three.

This one-piece swim suit by Old Navy ($30) is ideal for family getaways. Appropriate, on-trend, and super flattering. What more could a girl ask for?

four.

Adding jewelry is a great way to take an outfit from day to night. And this Isosceles necklace ($64) will do just the trick!

five.

My new favorite summer trend is definitely hats. I’m in love with straw fedoras for the beach or walking around town and this one from Charlotte Russe ($12.80) adds a burst of color and pattern that instantly makes me smile.

six. SPLURGE!

My splurge isn’t fashion/style related, but it is a definite splurge when it comes to getaways. For my trip to San Francisco, coming up this year, I’d love to spend a ton of cash on new sandals and adorable outfits to jetset around the country in, but in the end you’re probably not going to remember what you wore. So, when it comes to splurging on a trip, spend your money on the experience and get the rest at a steal!

5 Steals and a Splurge

Happy Monday dear readers!  After a super relaxing weekend in Tahoe, I'm ready to take on the week, and hopefully finish this monster of a work project.  I'm super excited for today's post from Jeanne.  Please check out her blog, especially her Twenty Dollar Mondays...such amazing, thrifty finds!

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Hello everyone! It's me from Shop Sweet Things with Jeanne. I've been a fan of KC's blog for a while now, and it's been her thrifty-chic styles, down-to-earth personality,  and her obsession with "menswear" that keep me coming back for more. So when KC asked me to guest post for her, I was completely flattered. While I am a lover of all things thrifty and stylish, I am also a firm believer in splurging for that one classic piece. I hope you will all enjoy my  "5 Steals & a Splurge", and really,  I hope my husband is reading this so he'll know exactly what to get me for my birthday this year. :)  Have fun and Happy Monday!!

1. Notebooks ($4.95) - Let's face it, the cooler the notebook the more creative we get! I picked up these wonderful notebooks recently at a San Francisco Japanese store called New People, and I couldn't resist getting just one because of the cool neon colors. They come in perfectly handy for list-making and jotting down those random ideas that constantly pops up for my blog.  

2. Fresh Soap Bars ($12 - $14) - I have a huge weakness for pretty packaging, and Fresh will always be on the top of my list. I bought these pretty soap bars over a year ago... not to actually use them, but to have them smelling and looking pretty on my desk. They really do make a great room freshener!

3. Statement Necklace ($38) - While this Sweet Drops Necklace from Anthroplogie  would never make it to my Twenty Dollar Monday, I would never think twice about buying a chic statement necklace. This one here is not too expensive, and I think the colors for this particular piece is quite unique. I can already see myself wearing a crisp white shirt and blue jeans while easily throwing on this necklace to make a statement. 

4. Reusable Shopping Bags ($6 - $12) -  Sure, I enjoy grocery shopping and farmer's market trips. But I would enjoy it even more if I am going in style with these Baggu reusable shopping bags. These eco-friendly bags are so chic and inexpensive that getting just one would totally be a tease. These Baggu bags come in over 40 different colors (solids & patterns) and 3 different sizes. I can seriously use one as my lunch bag, grocery bag, and a laundry bag.  

5. VIntage Magazine Print ($3) & Ikea White Frames ($10) - One of my favorite thrifty finds is this original vintage tearsheet from the late 1950's. It was an actual ad for a gasoline company, and it absolutely reminded me of Mad Men. I got this a year ago at the Cannery Row Antique Mall in Monterey , and I framed it with an inexpensive Ikea white frame. It is still one of my favorite wall arts in the house - all for just 13 bucks!

6 Tuxedo Jacket ($225) - Alright, here comes the splurge...I've seen this piece in the market for a while now, and I simply cannot get over how crazy I am with this Emersonmade's Tuxedo Jacket. It has the three C's I'm looking for - cool, chic, and classic! And I can pretty much say that this jacket is as essential as that classic trench coat you just gotta have in your closet!

5 Steals and a Splurge

WOW! What a week it has been.  Today is a sad sad day leaving my bf and returning to work...talk about a case of the Mondays!  One a happier note though, I'll be back to regular posting and commenting on all of your lovely blogs.  While I was grateful for the break from reality this past week, I did experience some blogging and Pinterest withdrawals.  Good thing JoAnn from I'd rather be shopping is here to share her 5 Steals and a Splurge! 

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Thanks for hosting me on the blog today, KC!  KC's series, 5 Steals and a Splurge, is one of my faves because I am a girl with champagne taste on a beer budget.  While I love perusing the web for high fashion and fancy decor finds, my most rewarding purchases are the least expensive.  Don't get me wrong, I have been known to blow my budget from time to time, but I am never more proud of a purchase than when it is unexpectedly thrifty!  Here are some of my fave finds...

Five Steals...

1. Hollywood Tape:  I carry Hollywood Tape around in my purse because you never know when you might have a fashion malfunction!  It's perfect for making sure your sundress stays in place or to temporarily adjust a hem length.  And at $8.99, it's an easy add-on for your shopping list.

2.  Gap City Flats:  You can usually find me running around town in these trusty $39.50 ballet flats.  They're ultra comfy (almost like wearing slippers), come in many colors and are sold with a handy bag so you can stash them in your purse for when your sky high heels inevitably give you a blister.

3.  Paperless Post:  I am a firm believer in sending hand-written notes, but in this day and age, sometimes the speed of email is necessary.  So I frequently turn to my favorite online stationary company, Paperless Post.  You can send elegant, thoughtful notes quickly and on the cheap, and save a tree or two.  You receive 25 free "stamps" when you sign up (sending one simple card like the one above costs 1 stamp) and then you can purchase additional stamps for $0.05-$0.16 each.  This service makes being polite easy!

4. Lollia Breathe Petite Treat Handcreme:  When my best friend introduced me to this pretty little package for $7.99, I was hooked.  This creme is the perfect balance between light and creamy and it smells delicious!

5.  Forever 21 Jewelry:  Forever 21 is my go-to place for inexpensive costume jewelry.  I receive so many compliments because you can find truly designer-looking pieces there like this $14.80 bracelet.

And a splurge!

6.  Goyard St. Louis Tote:  My biggest weakness is handbags.  I'm addicted!  But this splurge was worth making because it is such a usable bag!  I use it almost everyday so the cost per wear is fantastic, and it fits all of the junk I need.  I love it so much, I am considering getting a second larger version...that is if i can get over the almost $1k price tag for a second time...  {San Francisco Goyard store: 415-398-1110}

Thanks again, KC and have a fantastic trip!

Lotsa love,
JoAnn @ I'd Rather be Shopping...
xoxo

5 Steals and a Splurge

Thanks to the wonders of scheduled posting, I have a whole slew of posts ready for you all this week.  By the time you are reading this, I'll probably be in Austin, Texas!  I promise to return to regular commenting/blog reading once I get some downtime, but for random updates of our trip, check my twitter @kristencarole.  And now, the lovely Padgett from her self titled blog, Padgett Hoke will share her 5 steals and a splurge (fun fact: Padgett was seriously the first person...aside from my bf and close friends...to comment and follow my blog, plus she makes Ah-mazing jewelry on Etsy.  Check out her shop here.)

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Happy Monday wonderful Thrifty readers! KC asked if I would put together a couple of my favorite steals and a splurge. I am a cut throat deal finder so I contemplated this for a long time. It was very hard to narrow down my steals and especially my splurge, but I did and here they are!

Steals:

1. Laptop cover: I have one of these and it is the best! I love protecting my laptop so why not have something that is cute and serves a function & at only $26.00 - totally worth it. Plus when you pull your computer out in the sleeve at the airport - guaranteed compliments!

2. Fresh (albertsons) flowers: no need to buy expensive fresh flowers from a florist, head on over to a grocery store & buy whatever is in season at a deal. advice: buy all of one color and put in a very simple vase - instant elegance!

3. Sunset in the Rearview music blog: My cousin, Lydia Simmons, is the founder of this site & it is an amazing resource for all things music complete with tons and tons of free downloads of fantastic songs - my current favorite sunset download is this song.

4. Button down shirt: whatever staple item I am in need of - currently button down oxfords - I always head on over to Forever 21 to get the goods. Not only are they cute - but at $12.50, you can buy two and still feel good about it!

5. Bathing suits: with the upcoming swim suit season headed our way (for those of us in jackson hole, wyoming who are in full blown winter that might be closer towards July)... I always head over to American Eagle and check out their suits. They are of great quality - and currently are having a swim suit sale so this little top is $18.37!

Splurge:

1. Ray Ban (prescription) sunglasses: I have just ordered these prescription sunglasses! Being that I can't see distances - I don't know why I didn't think about these before, but I had an ah ha moment and realized I should get my prescriptions in my shades - duh. Well, this is news to me - they can basically take any sunglasses and put my prescription in them. The ability to see is sort of priceless - and a very well spent splurge! $156.00

Thank you to KC for letting me do this guest post, it was so fun and I hope you all will stop on by my little site "www.padgetthoke.blogspot.com" and say hi!

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)

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}!

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!