Smooth Sailing Shopping Tips because Every Outfit Needs an Anchor

How exciting is it when you learn something new that makes your life so much easier?  Maybe you discovered a shortcut driving to work, online banking, or you just baked the most amazing red velvet cupcakes from a recipe you saw pinned on your newest addiction, Pinterest. There are fashion shortcuts too, so you don't have to splurge or devastate your budget to dress your best. In no particular order, here are a few of my budget friendly shopping secrets below:

1. Search for designer staple pieces at bargain prices from stores like TJMaxx and then pair them with vintage clothing. Or once you find your anchor piece, re-style your existing wardrobe and filter through discount stores for some major steals to compliment your look.

2. An outfit is 50% clothes, 50% styling. I just made that up, but the truth is the Real Housewives of Orange County and Beverly Hills prove that spending millions on a wardrobe can still make a person look like a cool 20 bucks.

3. If you love designer clothes, check consignment shops or second hand stores. My favorites in San Francisco are Crossroads Trading Co. and Cris which has every designer you could think of from Gucci to Pucci at super discounted prices.

Below, is one of my favorite recent dresses shot at the port of San Francisco with a Carnival Cruise Ship in the background. 

One of my favorite trench's from Crossroads Trading Co. I usually don't go out with my legs so wintery white, but I'll have a "How To" Youtube video coming soon showing celebrity red carpet leg tricks.

Budget Friendly Styling Tips: For men & women, don't spend your entire paycheck on an outfit. You need a focus (anchor) piece first. This dress was from a little random Orange County store for $22. Then build around your anchor with accessories and shoes.

(Sidenote) If companies wonder whether fashion bloggers sell their products; I saw these Zara heels on just a few of my fave blogs including Atlantic-Pacific, The Fancy Teacup & Vivaluxury last month. I thought they were so cute; the next day I went out and bought them.

If I'm buying a dress like this that's not the best quality, I look for details that might make it look more expensive. Check for nice original patterns or solids (try avoid knock-off designer print which can look cheap). I also liked the the front vintage-looking flaps & the matching material belt on this dress. 

DETAILS by Dale

Ring - F21, gold bracelet- H&M (old), watch- Michael Kors, bangles-F21, handbag- LV (present)

Dress - 2Hearts, trench- Juicy Couture, nails- OPI - Charged Up Cherry

Photos by Thomas Delgado Photography

Speaking of shortcuts in life, I have to mention Carnival Cruise Lines. Carnival may offer enticing deals, but I would highly recommend sailing with a different cruise line. After an awful experience on one of their "fun ships" a few years ago, I highly recommend doing your research into other lines before taking a cruise. Sadly, after hearing about the Concordia Cruise ship disaster off the coast of Italy, I wasn't shocked to hear it was owned by the Miami-based Carnival Cruise Lines. That company needs a life saver, and fast!

If you have your own budget friendly styling tips or a favorite store where you always find trendy clothes at great prices, let us know. :) 

Have a great 3-Day weekend!

xoDale

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