Lunchbreak Shopping: Clothes Mentor

image via Clothes Mentor

Last Friday, I finally took a drive over to my local Clothes Mentor store that opened a few months ago. If you're not familiar with Clothes Mentor, it's a women's fashion resale store.  Think of it as Plato's Closet's older sister ( they're owned by the same company),where they give you cash on the spot for your gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories. They also carry petites, plus, and maternity sizes.  I really didn't have anything in particular that I wanted to buy.  To be honest, I was planning on not buying anything at all because I just wanted to see what this store was all about. But two pairs of shoes caught my eye, and I had to take them home with me.  Check them out.

Candies heels $14.00

Jessica Simpson metallic slingback heels $18.  Whoever owned these before must have worn them once or never.  There's no wear on the heel.

Do you shop or sell your items at Clothes Mentor?

Cheapalicious Deals 10-30-12

• Bath and Body Works:  $10 off $30 or more purchase.  Expires 11-18-12
• Yankee Candle:  Buy two large jar candles or tumbler candles, get two free.  Expires 11-25-12
• Old Navy:  20% off a single item (via Facebook).  Expires 11-7-12
• Saks Fifth Avenue:  Free shipping on all orders.  Coupon code: SHOPNOV.  Expires 11-4-12
• Piperlime:  20% off select boots and booties.  Coupon code: BOOT.  Expires 10-30-12
• JC Penney:  Take an extra 30% off clearance.  Coupon code: EXTRA30.  Expiration unknown
• Express:  30% off outerwear.  Expires 10-30-12
• Jessica Simpson:  BOGO free select shoes.  Expires 10-31-12

Star Style Under $200: First Lady Michelle Obama

 Who says business casual has to be dull and drab? See how Mrs. Obama adds a splash of color to a pair of black slacks and takes her outfit to the next level.  Want to re-create her outfit for less than $200?  Check out these affordable finds from KMart to get the look!

Product Info:   Sofia by Sofia Vergara  Women's Cardigan Sweater $24.99 //  Route 66  Women's Plaid Flannel Shirt $19.99 //    Attention  Women's Contemporary Fit Dress Pants $26.99  //   Attention  Women's Croc Embossed Patent Belt $9.99 // Attention "Jayden" dress pump $19.99

GRAND TOTAL= $101.95

Photos courtesy of KMart

Designer Way vs. Cheapalicious Way

Kate Spade's "Book Emanuelle" box clutch retails for $325 at Nordstrom.   I love the book clutch trend and all, but that price.......

Although it's not the same design, ASOS has a more affordable book clutch that will only set you back about $44.


Are you feeling the book clutch trend?  Do you own one?


Disclosure:  Some of the links in this post are "affiliate links".  That means if you click on the link, Cheapalicious will receive a commission.  

Cheapalicious Deals 10-23-12

• Alloy:  Free shipping on any order.  Coupon code: FSALLOY.  Expires 10-23-12
• Famous Footwear:  30% off your purchase.  Valid 10/24/- 10/28/12
• Old Navy:  20% off your purchase.  Expires 10/24/12
• Stein Mart:  20% off any one sale item.  Expires 10-28-12
• Donald J Pliner:  Take 25% off your purchase.  Coupon code: FFF12.  Expires 10-24-12
• Anne Klein:  Take $50 off $150 or more.  Expires 10-23-12
• NARS:  Free shipping on any order. Expires 10-25-12
• Leg Savvy:  Free shipping on orders $50 or more
• Deb Shops:  30% off entire site.  For a limited time

Trying out Cami Secret.....

On a recent trip to Ross Dress for Less, I spotted the As Seen on TV product, Cami Secret for only $5.99 (regular price is $9.99 on the website).  I must admit, this is one item that I was dying to try (ok, not dying), because I hate layering a cami underneath my low cut, v-neck tops sometimes- especially in this Florida weather.  The clip on  mock camisoles in my pack came in three basic colors- black, white, and beige- and are made of 90% polyester and 10% spandex (lace is 88% nylon and 12% spandex).  They are available in other colors/prints also.

Other colors that they're available in

 So how do you wear the Cami Secret?  It's very simple.  Just clip them onto your bra straps (one size fits all) and voila!  Cleavage is instantly hidden without the bulk of layering a cami.

Three snap buttons for adjusting if needed

Wearing the Cami Secret.  It stayed in place the whole time I wore it- no riding up or anything.

Do you own Cami Secret?

Revisiting Miss Tina for Walmart

Remember when the Miss Tina for Walmart line first hit stores two years ago, and I didn't really care for what it had to offer at the time?  Well, my attitude for her clothing line has done a turnaround. There are some really cute pieces out at the moment and I've been scooping up some fab pieces lately (like the houndstooth blouse and ponte pants below)!  Don't get me wrong, some of the pieces from her line isn't going to be everyone's cup of tea, but if you're looking for affordable pieces that are on trend and decent quality, then it doesn't hurt to take a peek at what Miss Tina has in store. Here are some of my fave pieces out right now.

Product Info:  houndstooth oversized high low blouse $15.94 //  tie waist geo print dress $17 //  plus size striped boatneck dress $13 (Old Navy has a similar one, but this one is cheaper) //  skinny ponte pant $17.94 //  colorblock ponte pencil skirt $15.94


What do you think of the Miss Tina for Walmart line? Do you own any pieces from it?

Guest Post: Curvy Fashionista Essentials for Under $50

Today's guest post is brought to you by the lovely Tyra of Thrifty Tyra.com! She brings to us her top three essentials that every curvy fashionista should have in their wardrobe- for under $50! For more great cheapalicious fashion tips and deals, check out Tyra's blog, or follow her on Twitter and on Facebook!

###################################################################################


It can be difficult to be curvy and chic in a fashion environment where thin is in. There are some great pieces to be had that accentuate your curves. Dare to be fashionable and different by flaunting that fabulous body!


I’ve put together my top three choices to create a sexy office look or date night essentials that every curvy woman who shops in the plus sized department should have.  These items are all $50 and under that you can mix and match to dress up or dress down your look.


Pencil Skirt


This is a hotly contested item among plus sized ladies. Many argue that a tighter garment will just look more bulky.  This couldn't be farther from the truth. A pencil skirt, when fit correctly, can be incredibly sexy. It’s got a 40’s feel to it and hugs your curves, accentuating the narrowness of your waist.
Do: Go for a thicker band top if you don’t like accessorizing with a belt. If you go for a narrow waistband, accessorize with a large belt around the narrowest part of your waist to emphasize your hourglass shape.  
Don’t: Buy a skirt that is a light color. Go with a darker color on your bottom half otherwise all attention will be drawn to your derriere.

Shown: Pencil Skirt by Torrid: on sale for $34.50


Cardigan


The word “cardigan” may seem a little old fashioned but a nice button down sweater is one of the best pieces in your wardrobe to have. A good cardigan dresses up a more casual look and can fix poor fashion choices. There have been many outfits saved by a good button down cardigan. Whether it’s a showing bra strap, the movie theater too cold, or your top is too low- the cardigan is your best friend.
Do: Buy a cardigan in multiple colors. Accessorize with a pin or go with an embellished version (beaded collar, fancier buttons, etc.)
Don’t: Buy a cardigan you can’t button up! Too many women think, “Oh, I always wear my cardigans unbuttoned so it’s okay if I can’t button it over my chest.” Wrong! There’s going to be that one day where you need to button up and now you’re stuck.  A little looseness is okay- you can always belt it.

Shown: Animal print long sleeved cardigan from Macy’s for $44.98



Shape Wear


Just because you don’t see it on the outside doesn’t mean it isn’t affecting your fashion look. Shape wear is important for certain styles and outfits to keep the dreaded “muffin top” at bay. There are plenty of shape wear styles to choose from, depending on the area you’re trying to shape. I personally like a high waisted short with tummy control for when I wear dresses and control top tights aren’t enough.
Do: pick shape wear depending on your activity and outfit. There are great microfiber options that are still breathable and comfortable to wear.
Don’t: pick shape wear that will restrict your movement.  There is such a thing as too tight and over the hours you’ll be in wearing your outfit, it can get quite uncomfortable.


Shown: Spanx In Power Shaper from Lane Bryant for $38.00

Cheapalicious Deals 10-16-12

• Dots:  Take an additional 30% off clearance.  For a limited time.
• Old Navy:  $10 off $50 or more purchase (via Facebook).  Expires 10-24-12
• Nine West:  BOGO 50% off shoes.  Expires 10-17-12
• Bath and Body Works:  20% off any purchase.  Expires 10-19-12
• Bluefly:  Take 20% off regular priced items.  Coupon code: FAMILY.  Expires 10-17-12
• Walgreens:  Take 20% off all beauty and personal care items.  Coupon code: LOVELY20.  Expires 10-20-12
• Swell:  20% off on orders $50 or more.  Coupon code: AMPED.  Expires 10-19-12

Lunchbreak Shopping: Looking for Sally Hansen's Complete Salon Manicure at the Dollar Tree

While browsing my fave budget beauty blog, Nouveau Cheap, I came across her post on spotting some Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure polishes at the Dollar Tree.  Since I had to make a trip over to my Dollar Tree anyway, I was hoping that my store carried them. I love those polishes!  "Commander in Chic" is still one of my fave colors from the brand. Unfortunately, my local store didn't have them  I've found some more cool beauty items instead (I always do!).  Check out my mini haul.

Nail art beads and Sally Hansen Insta-Dry nail polish in Snappy Sprinkles (see a swatch here).  I can't wait to try and attempt a caviar manicure.  It looks easy enough, so I shouldn't mess it up.

E.L.F Shimmer Pencil in "Black Bandit" and Defining Eye Brush

Another eyeshadow palette from Profusion

These remind me of the Hollywood Fashion Tape, but I wonder if they work just as well.  Hmm....

What did you score recently from Dollar Tree?

Star Style Under $200 : Kristen Bell

Kristen Bell was spotted at the premiere of Target's shoppable short film, Falling For You (in which she stars in, you can check it out here)  dressed in head to toe pieces from the big box retailer.  Total cheapalicious-ness!  What's even sweeter is that her whole entire outfit is under $200!  Check out the pieces below.

Kristen Bell photo source: InStyle

Product Info:  Merona plaid blazer $34.99 //  Merona classic favorite shirt $19.99 //  Mossimo colored skinny jeans $21 (reg. $22.99) //  Merona suede cutout belt $19.99 //  Mossimo "Kylin" ankle boot $29.99 //  Merona gold tone boyfriend watch $16.99 (not sure if this is the same watch she is wearing)

GRAND TOTAL= $142.95

Nifty under $50: Polka dots

Along with the nautical trend, polka dots never seem to go out of style. It's such a timeless print!  Looking to add some spotty pieces to your wardrobe?  Check out some of my fab finds under $50 below.

Product info:  polka dot button down blouse $39.99, Urban Outfitters //  polka dot chambray $26.94, Old Navy //  Kardashian Kollection polka dot blazer $38.99, Sears //  polka dot peep toe wedge $32.99, Swell //  Merona polka dot shirtdress $27.99, Target



More options for every budget:

polka dots

Disclosure: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, Cheapalicious will receive a commission.

Star Style Under $300: Nikki Reed

Actress Nikki Reed jazzes up her basic jeans and slouchy top combo with fun accessories!  Get her look with these budget friendly finds.

Nikki Reed photo source:  InStyle

Product info: dipped hem shirt A$34.95 ($35.70 USD), Cotton On //  Rockstar skinny jeans $29.50, Old Navy //  leopard clutch $43.98, ASOS // triangle necklace $30, eDressMe //  Carlos Santana "Sardinia" t-strap platform pumps $99, Macy's

GRAND TOTAL= $238.18

Cheapalicious Deals 10-9-12

• Old Navy:  10% off your purchase (excludes denim; via Facebook).  Expires 10-10-12
• ModDeals.com:  15% off your purchase.  Coupon code: cheapalicious15off.  Expires 10-31-12 (offer extended!).  Check out my review of ModDeals.com here.
• The Limited:  30% off sweaters and sweater dresses.  Expiration unknown
• H&M:  20% off one single item for students (must show student ID).  Expires 10/14/12
• Arden B:  $25 off $100 or more purchase.  Coupon code: AB25100.  Expires 10-31-12
• NY & Co.:  BOGO 50% off everything.  Expires 10-17-12
• Express:  30% off dresses.  Expires 10-16-12
• Cherry Culture:  20% off everything.  Coupon code: PINK20.  Expires 10-14-12
• Urban Decay:  20% off everything (Friends and Family Event).  Coupon code: FFHOLIDAY12.  Expires 10-13-12

Nifty under $50: Burgundy

The color burgundy..... maroon, wine, or "oxblood" as the fashion world is calling it these days, is the "it" hue of the season!  You can pair it with anything -from chic neutrals such as black, gray, or navy, to prints such as leopard or houndstooth, this deep, rich color amps up the luxe factor for almost any outfit.  Ready to add some burgundy to your wardrobe?  Check out these budget friendly pieces below.

Product info:  tie collar daytime dress $27.80, Forever 21// almond toe wedge $24.80, Forever 21//  Romeo and Juliet Couture cords, $44.99, Loehmann's //  sleeveless peplum top $36, TopShop //  midi tube skirt $40, TopShop

More options for every budget:

oxblood

Cheapalicious Deals 10-2-12

• Dots:  Take an extra 30% off clearance items. For a limited time.  
•  Old Navy:  30% off your purchase (can also be used at Gap and Banana Republic).  Coupon code: THANKYOU.  Expires 10-2-12
• Loft:  50% off  select full priced items.  Coupon code: NOW50.  Expires 10-8-12
• Payless:  15% off your purchase.  Expires 10-31-12
• Kohls:  15% off your purchase.  Expires 10-3-12
• ASOS:  20% off ASOS Collection.  Expires 10-3-12
• MAC Cosmetics:  Free standard shipping on any order.  Expires 12-31-12
• Bakers Shoes:  Free pair of shoes with any $99 boot purchase.  For a limited time
• Nasty Gal:  30% off all dresses.  Expires 10-7-12

Guest Post: Five items every woman needs in their closet this Fall

I'm so happy that Fall has finally arrived! Time to get my Fall wardrobe in order! Check out this guest post from Meredith (who writes on behalf of Cache'), on what pieces every woman should have in their Fall wardrobe.

###############################################################################
by Meredith K.

Fall, one of the most fashionable seasons in my opinion, has finally arrived. For those not daring enough to wear boots year-round, now is the time to shine them up and prepare for the cool fall weather! While it is not necessary to go out and buy an entirely new wardrobe for every season, it is fun to add a few essentials to spruce up your wardrobe for the changing weather. Make sure your closet has a few of these items so that your inner fashionista can shine with ease this fall. 

1. Perfect Fitting Jeans

If you don’t already have a few pair, make sure to invest in a quality pair of jeans that hug you in all the right places. Jeans are the quintessential go-to item to create a quick outfit. It truly is all about the fit when it comes to jeans so take your time and try on several different brands. Pair your favorite jeans with riding boots or booties and a basic sweater and you’re set!

2. Blazers

These past few years have brought about a huge influx of blazer-wearing. Blazers are a great way to add a polished look to even casual outfits. Depending on where you live, you may not need to wear any outerwear except for a blazer this fall.

3. Leather Jacket

Leather jackets are the easy way to add a rockstar flare to any outfit. Throw on a T-shirt, skinny jeans and your leather jacket and you’ll look effortlessly fab. 

4. Little Black Dress (The Fall Edition)

Everyone woman knows that they need a little black dress, but what some women forget is that they need one that can be worn in the colder seasons as well. My tips for buying the perfect little black dress for fall and winter is to buy a dress that is made of a thicker cotton or wool, find a dress with sleeves, or buy a not so little black dress that has a bit more length to it. 

5. Scarves

No longer are scarves just for bundling up in the freezing cold of winter. Scarves are a great accessory to simple outfits and still add a small layer of warmth against the crisp fall air. Play around with patterns to add a pop of color to simple ensembles.

These style tips are from Caché. Caché is a specialty retailer of fashionable women’s clothing for the style-conscious woman. Visit Cache online for these looks and more today.