frugal fashion finds

One of the most depressing things about being obsessed with fashion is the fact that an overwhelming majority of trendy items that line the pages of fashion magazines are insanely expensive. While it may be rewarding to some to spend months saving money in order to afford the latest designer handbag, I prefer to browse around inexpensive stores in hopes of finding some versatile items that I can re-wear on many different occasions. I went through my closet and found ten crucial items that don’t necessarily look inexpensive, but actually were. Some of these pieces I’ve had for many years and still find myself wearing them almost daily.

1.) H & M sheer gray tank top. (approx $6). I literally wore this tank almost every day of this past summer. The sheer fabric was very light and breezy on sweltering days, and since then, it has been a great layering piece under cardigans and blazers.

2.) Graceland black heels. ($19.99). A few months ago, I spotted these at an outlet mall, and at first I was skeptical. The setting in the store was hectic, and the no-name brand immediately turned me off. However, once I slipped these on, I fell in love. They’re the perfect height, comfortable and for $20 – what’s not to love?!

3.) Old Navy striped cardigan. (approx $20). I absolutely adore this cardigan. This is mostly because I adore stripes and comfy clothes, but nevertheless, this is one of my most versatile items. I’ve worn it over LBD’s, with jeans and a bright tank, and even to work with a pencil skirt and blouse.

4.) LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl’s skinny jeans. ($40 on sale. Jeans are ALWAYS on sale). While I’m not big on the whole “jeggings” trend that blew up last year, these jeans are just thick enough to still be jeans, but do have the stretchy appeal of leggings. They are extremely flattering (in the LONG fit!), and the wash compliments almost any outfit.

5.) Forever 21 embroidered tunic. (approx $25). White T-shirts are always a staple in many closets. I own at least ten, varying from long and flowy to the most basic v-neck. This tunic adds a spin on the old boring tee, and the embroidery around the neckline adds a feminine touch that instantly dresses up the look.

6.) South Moon Under thin-striped scarf. (approx $30). I bought this comfy scarf three winters ago, and have hardly taken it off. It is without a doubt my go-to outerwear item. The multi-colored threads match almost any shirt I wear underneath, and the metallic gold threads add just the right amount of shimmer.

7.) thrifted black bow pin. ($1). As weird as this may sound, I bought this bow with ALLOWANCE money in like, the 4th grade. Ever since I was young, I’ve constantly been searching for ways to amp up boring outfits. I’ve worn this pin on countless items, such as poufy skirts, dresses, solid sweaters, and even in my hair. Little gems like this are worth holding on to!

8.) Urban Outfitters Kimchi Blue dress. ($50). This silk dress was a staple last summer. I love the unique color, and it was perfect dressed down with sandals. I’ve adapted into my winter wardrobe as well by pairing it with tights, boots, and a long sweater.(P.S. I’m actually wearing this in the About Me section!)

9.) Express “party clutch” (approx $20). I actually bought this clutch in 2006, when I first started going out in college. I was/am obsessed with the gold sparkles and the old fashioned elegance of the snap clasp. I’ve gotten compliments almost every time I’ve worn this over the past few years. (Including NYE 2010 –below)

10.) Mossimo boots from Target ($34.50). I’ve been searching for the perfect pair of camel colored boots for the past few seasons, and this year I finally found them – and at Target! Not only are they insanely comfortable, but they’re the right length on the shin and have unique touches such as a wrap-around buckle and an exposed zipper that goes up the entire back of the boot.

concrete jungle

Although I enjoy living in Baltimore, the thrill of New York City is something that never ceases to amaze me. From the fashion to the food, to the never-ending nightlife, there is never a dull moment when I visit New York. For New Year’s Eve, I visited my friend Elizabeth with my boyfriend a bunch of my friends. We spent the days perusing Broadway for the various post-holiday sales and braving the crowds at tourist attractions like the Guggenheim museum.

The highlight of the weekend had to be the NYE celebration at the Empire Hotel’s rooftop party. I’m a little embarrassed to admit that the immediate appeal of the Empire Hotel is the fact that Chuck Bass “owns” the hotel on Gossip Girl. It was decorated beautifully and had three different rooms, including one outdoor area that was lit by the glow of the infamous EMPIRE HOTEL sign.

We danced, drank champayne, and it was the perfect way to ring in the new year. Cheers!

2011

The dawn of a new year can often induce feelings of rebirth, clean slates and a long list of resolutions. I am a huge believer in making new years resolutions, and most importantly, sticking to them. In 2010 I kept a list of my resolutions in my blackberry, and I referred to them quite frequently over the past year. My 2010 list included being healthier (exercising and eating), being neater, saving money, travelling, drinking more water, and being greener. Although I did not meet all of them completely, the fact that it was in my phone was a constant reminder to focus on my annual goals. The ones I feel proud to have fulfilled are my exercise regimen, eating habits, drinking more water and being greener. Most people typically set only one or two new years resolutions for themselves, but I enjoy setting many goals for myself that can apply to several areas of my life.

This year, while there are a few new resolutions, many of them are just slightly tweaked versions of last years. For example, as far as being healthy is concerned, I just plan to continue to be active and consciously make an effort to take care of myself. I also still want to travel, and still want to save money, but those two will probably take a back seat until I graduate in May. New additions this year include running in an organized race (such as a 5 or 7K), being more optimistic, responsible and appreciative. However, my number one resolution is going to be my dedication to my blog. Writing is something I am extremely passionate about, and having a well-received  consistent blog is something I strive to have. Last year I went through waves where I would go on a writing kick and have a posting frenzy, but as soon as I became busy with work or class, I would let my blog get away from me.  (See: the last three months).

With all of that said, I am confident that this year champayne wishes will be full of fresh and interesting content. One of my biggest challenges has been finding a specific niche for my blog. I have focused mostly on fashion, food and some personal stuff thrown in as well. I will continue to write about that, as well as other things I am passionate about. This may include entertainment, fitness, beauty and local culture related posts. I am excited to get to work and see what 2011 has in store.

Happy New Year!