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how to hone your personal style

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Do you want to start dressing more stylishly? Maybe you just want to get back to dressing and feeling like yourself again, like before you were somebody’s mom. Let’s be honest with ourselves, getting dressed up in fashionable clothes that fit well and make you feel attractive makes everyone feel better. I know it sounds superficial but it’s definitely not. We deserve that little luxury. Either way, you can find out everything you need to know, right here.

How to Hone Your Personal Style

Become an Expert

The first thing that you need to do is try and gather as much inspiration as possible. You need to become an observer of all of the outfits you like, whether it is on Instagram, on fashion blogs or even in magazines. Look at all of the women and think about what makes them stand out. What resonates with you? What is it that makes you identify with that style? If possible, you need to be precise and you also need to train your eye. You then need to try and copy or imitate the outfits that you do like. Surprisingly, you can get a stylish wardrobe without breaking your budget. Believe it or not, this is a very helpful and creative technique, and it can really help you to build your foundational understanding of fashion. It also forces you to actually pay attention to detail.

Use a Mirror

If you do not have a full-length mirror, then now is the time for you to invest in one. A big mirror is so important as it gives you the chance to play around with different proportions and it also gives you the opportunity to play around with textures and colors too. You can accessorize better, and you can also become your own personal stylist. Just make sure that you are always seeing the bigger picture. If you want to help yourself then you also need to try and experiment with jewelry and accessories. You can try and buy a 1-carat diamond ring, a pearl necklace or some cute statement pieces if you like, and you will be surprised at how much of a difference this can make to your outfit and how you feel in that outfit.

how to hone your personal style

Get out of your Comfort Zone

Getting your own signature style can be very difficult to do. You may even find that it takes years of practice to fully develop your personal sense of style. At the end of the day, you have to make sure that you are not afraid to make mistakes. It’s just clothes. Knowing the trends is helpful but not the most important thing. Try and keep things fun and expose yourself to various styles and aesthetics. If you can do this, then you will soon find that it is easier for you to create an outfit that you love. Don’t be afraid to play around with patterns, colors and even accessories. Silhouettes are also a very good starting point, so explore things like this.

Proportions are Important

Proportion is everything if you want to try and create aesthetic harmony. If possible you need to try and wear clothes that are fitted to your body shape. If you want to play around with an oversized piece of clothing, or if you want to experiment with something that is an unusual shape, then you need to try and keep the rest of the clothing items you have fitted. This way you can make your outfit look fantastic, and you can also make sure that you are not dressing in clothes that look too baggy or oversized for your look.

In the end, fashion is about feeling beautiful in your own skin and it’s more about how you feel than what you wear. Be adventurous and self-confident and you’ll be the sexiest version of yourself.

What is the one piece of fashion that defines your personal style?

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why luxury fashion is an investment

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Spending money is something I take very seriously. I’m not cheap by any means but I know how hard it is to earn money and I know what it feels like to not have it so I’m frugal. I don’t deprive myself but if I buy something it has to be worth it to me…in some way. I don’t believe in waiting for special occasions so I want to invest in things I can appreciate every day and I want to appreciate every day like it’s the last day.

I’m don’t usually shop at Walmart or Target for clothes, shoes or handbags for myself (though on occasion I have found some cute, quality items) but as I’ve grown older, I’ve learned to differentiate between quality made and disposable fashion. I know the difference between throwing my money away and making an investment and I’m here to tell you that an investment in your overall happiness and quality of life is just as important as investing in a good piece of jewelry or property.

Today you can find clothes, shoes, handbags and watches ranging from a few tens of dollars to hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on if it’s an original piece of couture by Dior, a high-end luxury piece off the rack like Zimmerman, a midrange dupe by a less expensive designer like Steve Madden, fast fashion like Primark or a mega mass-produced copy of a dupe sold on Shein.  You choose your own fashion adventure but keep in mind, that not all products are created equal but they all have their place. Most people own reasonably priced pieces with a few luxury pieces interspersed within their wardrobe.  Owning luxury items is not easily accessible to everyone and to be honest, not everyone cares about the brand name. 

But thanks to many amazing brands, you can still have a quality fashion wardrobe on a budget if you are an intelligent and patient buyer without always paying the highest price. For example, just look at the GMT Master II guide. But the question remains: why buy a luxury item, when you can get it for less? Here are some valid reasons to wear a luxury watch! 

1. To be at the forefront of technology 

When we talk about being at the cutting edge of technology in the watchmaking sector, some will quickly think of the famous Apple Watch. Yet the largest watches are a thousand times more complex.  Owning a luxury watch means having years of innovation, research and testing on your wrist, each more complex than the next.  In short, wearing a luxury watch means having an object designed and built down to the last detail, thanks to decades of know-how.  The big brands carry out all the stages of production: from the casting of gold alloys to the assembly of the movement elements, the case, the dial and the bracelet, including machining and finishing. It is a sign of the times, and a sign of fashion. 

2. For social status

Wearing a luxury watch is an indescribable feeling. A feeling of confidence, exclusivity, specialness which can only be found with the biggest brands. This is valid for you, but also for others. Your high-end watch is more than just a watch. It is a symbol. It says to the world that you belong in all the rooms. When you wear luxury fashion you know who you are and it shows.

3. For the universe that goes with it 

Having a luxury watch on your wrist encompasses a whole universe. You don’t just walk into a Rolex store. You enter the world of the brand. Specific smells, watches displayed in a certain way and salesmen dressed in costumes. It’s an experience. In addition, the greatest watch models have a unique history.  The Rolex Submariner for example highlights its crossing of the Atlantic. Omega’s Speedmaster and his conquest of the moon. These watches do more than carry a story: they feed the legend. 

4. For an irreproachable quality

The precision of assembling a luxury watch is comparable to that it takes to plan the trajectory of an earth-moon rocket. In other words, surgical precision. Wearing a luxury watch means having all risk insurance on your wrist. You have gone away for several decades with your timepiece, if not several generations. To give you an idea of ​​the performance of these little jewels of watchmaking, NASA has equipped an astronaut with an Omega. This one remained 365 days in space.  

5. To make an investment 

When you buy an after all mundane watch, you are spending money. This is called a liability. On the other hand, the purchase of a luxury watch, on certain models, is a real investment. The watch will gain in value over time. After a few years, you will be able to resell it with a nice added value. This is called an asset. 

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Last year, I started working out. I’ve never been one to work out and walk 5Ks every day just because. I was about as fair-weathered a workout friend as you could find. I loved working out. Cardio was my jam but only when it was convenient. I wasn’t about that walking in 110 degrees with 100% humidity. And I definitely wasn’t running in 20-degree weather but here we are. Me walking on ice, rain or shine, hot or cold in the holy pursuit of good health. If I’m going to do it, I’d like to be able to do it the best way possible. Enter Telic Après Ski recovery boots, the one thing I never knew, I always needed. Look at me, learning all the new things about myself.

Disclosure: I gifted a pair of Telic Après Ski recovery boots to experience them for myself but all opinions are my own.

I’ve had to do some pretty substantial research and I’ve learned some hard lessons along the way. I also learned that my teenagers don’t like to wake up early, clean, work out or do anything that involves any effort whatsoever before 10 am, even if they have to. But they are swiftly motivated by Starbucks and shopping for cute anything. If that’s what I’ve got to do to get my teens to exercise with me, well sign me and my silver sneakers up because walking in the mall still counts as walking.  Guess what else I learned?

READ ALSO: Ways to Work Out When You Don’t Have Time to Hit the Gym

I learned about a thing called sports recovery boots. Sounds made up, right? I thought so too but hey, I love cute shoes and I was sold and so were my girls. When I think of after sports shoes, I think of the Adidas soccer slides my girls wear after soccer games and ballet class. But those are not the sports recovery shoes that I am referring to in this post.

Recently, I was gifted a pair of Telic Après Ski sports recovery boots. When I saw them, I thought they were super cute and what could it hurt to try them out. We’d just spent 7 days walking 20000 steps daily around Walt Disney World. My feet were sore and in desperate need of some relief.

Telic Après Ski recovery boots

Since breaking my leg, most of my day’s end with a limp my legs are sore each night. But when I wear my Telic Après Ski recovery boots to work (I told you they were cute), I’m not limping at the end of the day. If that was not enough, I noticed they keep disappearing. My teens are swiping them to wear themselves. So, I got my oldest a pair and she loves them. She has dancer’s feet and they’ve taken a beating. She says these are one of the few shoes that don’t aggravate her plantar fasciitis and tendonitis.

READ ALSO: How I Broke My Leg in the Middle of My Sister’s Wedding

Let me tell you about the Après Ski recovery boot. It’s not just for after you ski, as the name would imply. It’s for after any sport. It’s great for everyday wear.

Telic Après Ski recovery bootsTelic is known for its award-winning comfort. The Après Ski recovery boot is also:

  • Insulated & Water Resistant
  • Traction Control Out-sole
  • Pillow-Soft Comfort
  • Lightweight Stability
  • Athlete Approved
  • Dr. Recommended

100% all true and I can attest to it because I’ve worn them a lot since I got them, in the mornings after working out during drop off and for my entire workdays and they truly impressed me. Actually, they blew my mind. I don’t know that I really believed anything could really work, especially with my foot and leg issues from the break but these did.

READ ALSO: Never Ask a Disabled Person if They’ll Return to Normal

You can enjoy Telic’s award-winning comfort year-round. They are designed to be worn by athletes to help relax and rejuvenate after training and competition, this recovery series incorporates Telic’s Novlaon Footstrike Technology and offers a soft supportive comfortable fit and feel for year-round Telic comfort.

What does that mean for you?

It means that this really cute pair of boots are comfortable and really do help you recover. To be honest, the fact that my leg hasn’t hurt after work since I’ve started wearing this is enough to convince me to wear these shoes every day of the year but in addition to that, I got so many compliments on the look of the shoe. If I had my way, I’d gift a pair to every teacher in my school because they are absolutely that cute and comfortable.

If you’re an athlete looking for a fantastic recovery shoe or someone who spends long hours on their feet and needs extreme comfort without sacrificing fashion, I would strongly suggest giving Telic’s Apres Ski recovery boots a try for yourself.  FYI, it also comes in a recovery shoe if boots are not your jam. Those are next on my list. Plus they got the seal of approval from my teen which never happens.

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a baby changes everything, motherhood fashion, after pregnancy, how to upcycle your maternity clothes after pregnancy, birth, wardrobe

Having a baby changes everything. Anyone who tells you otherwise is a liar. The one thing it changes forever is your body. Even if you get back to the size you were pre-baby, you are changed. But who am I telling? If you’re a mom, you already know this. However, no need to stress out. Just a little change of perspective, some patience and self-love, and everything is back on track. Figuring out what to do about your maternity clothes after pregnancy can be a challenge, your body is still changing but a mom still wants to look and feel stylish. Start with upcycling your way of thinking.

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I’m fairly new to this all year workout stuff. I’ve never been one to work out and walk 5Ks every day just because. I was about as fair-weathered a workout friend as you could find. I loved working out. Cardio was my jam but only when it was convenient. I wasn’t about that walking in 110 degrees with 100% humidity. And I sure as shit wasn’t running in 20-degree weather but here we are. If I’m going to do it, I’d like to be able to do it the best way possible. Enter Telic Après Ski recovery boots, the one thing I never knew, I always needed. Look at me, learning all the new things about myself.

Disclosure: I gifted a pair of Telic Après Ski recovery boots to experience them for myself but all opinions are my own.

I’ve had to do some pretty substantial research and I’ve learned some hard lessons along the way. For instance, I learned that I am allergic to the sun last summer. Yep. This means that I need to wear SPF at all times or a rash guard or I break out in a crazy rash all over my exposed body. I’ve learned that I am stronger than I ever knew. I’ve also learned that fleece-lined running pants are my friend and all fleece-lined pants are not created equal. I also learned that yes, that very expensive North Face jacket and those $200 running shoes are absolutely worth the money. Guess what else I learned?

READ ALSO: Ways to Work Out When You Don’t Have Time to Hit the Gym

I learned about a thing called sports recovery boots. Sounds made up, right? I thought so too but hey, I love cute shoes and I was sold. When I think of after sports shoes, I think of the Adidas soccer slides we all wore back in the day after soccer games. But those are not the sports recovery shoes that I am referring to in this post.

Recently, I was gifted a pair of Telic Après Ski sports recovery boots. When I saw them, I thought they were super cute and what could it hurt to try them out. They came awhile back. We’d just spent 7 days walking 20000 steps daily around Walt Disney World. My feet were sore and in desperate need of some relief.

Telic Après Ski recovery boots

Since breaking my leg, most of my day’s end with a limp. I work with preschoolers all day and they like to pull and climb on you so it’s inevitable that my legs are sore each night. Today, I wore my Telic Après Ski recovery boots to work (I told you they were cute) and for the first time in 4 years, I was not limping at the end of the day. It was kind of a big deal for me.

READ ALSO: How I Broke My Leg in the Middle of My Sister’s Wedding

I wish I could say that I was exaggerating and every night I don’t walk like a pirate but it’s all true. Every night since September 2015, I’ve walked like a pirate. It’s my new normal. But not tonight and if I’m being honest, I almost cried because I was so happy. I never thought any shoes, other than a pair of Louboutin’s, could make me weep with joy but these comfortable, beautiful recovery boots did.

Let me tell you about the Après Ski recovery boot. Firstly, it’s not just for after you ski, as the name would imply. It’s for after any sport. If we’re being really honest, it’s pretty great for everyday wear.

Telic Après Ski recovery boots

Telic is known for its award-winning comfort. The Après Ski recovery boot is also:

  • Insulated & Water Resistant
  • Traction Control Out-sole
  • Pillow-Soft Comfort
  • Lightweight Stability
  • Athlete Approved
  • Dr. Recommended

100% all true and I can attest to it because I’ve worn them every day since I got them, in the mornings after working out during drop off but not until today did I wear them for my entire work day and they impressed me. Actually, they blew my mind. I don’t know that I really believed anything could really work, especially with my foot and leg issues from the break but these did.

READ ALSO: Never Ask a Disabled Person if They’ll Return to Normal

You can enjoy Telic’s award-winning comfort year-round. They are designed to be worn by athletes to help relax and rejuvenate after training and competition, this recovery series incorporates Telic’s Novlaon Footstrike Technology and offers a soft supportive comfortable fit and feel for year-round Telic comfort.

What does that mean for you?

It means that this really cute pair of boots are comfortable and really do help you recover. To be honest, the fact that my leg hasn’t hurt after work since I’ve started wearing this is enough to convince me to wear these shoes every day of the year but in addition to that, I got so many compliments on the look of the shoe. If I had my way, I’d gift a pair to every teacher in my school because they are absolutely that cute and comfortable.

If you’re an athlete looking for a fantastic recovery shoe or someone who spends long hours on their feet and needs extreme comfort without sacrificing fashion, I would strongly suggest giving Telic’s Apres Ski recovery boots a try for yourself.  FYI, it also comes in a recovery shoe if boots are not your jam. Those are next on my list.

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Fashion has never been an easy field for normal people to master. I love fashion but I feel that it’s very personal. My own personal style is all over the place. I don’t like to be boxed in or labeled in life and certainly not in my fashion choices. My outfits really depend on where I’m going, what I’m doing and, yes, how I’m feeling.

There are professionals who dedicate their entire lives to knowing what to wear and how to dress different body types, sizes and shapes. More than that, they know how to dress different personalities to feel empowered and comfortable in their own skin, turning heads while doing it. That’s not just a skill, that’s an art form. One that I’d like some guidance and appreciation for.

READ ALSO: Fall Beauty Tricks

Obviously, we don’t all have time to focus all of our energy on knowing the ins and outs of fashion and make-up. While I do love playing with both. My God people, I’ve got kids and a job and working out and cooking and cleaning to do. Let’s be honest, I want to live my life. I don’t want to overthink the little things like what I’m wearing. Thank goodness for professionals. While it wouldn’t hurt if we all knew the basics of fashion and what looks good and fits best for our body, we can do better for ourselves, especially with a little professional help.

Here are some Fashion and Style Tips from the Pros online

Makeup

Makeup is one of the hardest parts of a beauty routine. It can be very easy to do things that make you look out of place or a little bit strange, and a lot of people put huge amounts of time into getting their make-up look just right. Nobody wants to look like a clown. One of the most crucial elements of this is the colors and shades you choose. Natural looks are easier to achieve than those designed to make you stand out. With this in mind, you should be choosing options that match your skin tone, while also complementing the color of your eyes and hair. This will put you on the right track with your makeup and is a method used by makeup artists all over the world to get the right look for their clients.

READ ALSO: How to have a Quality Fashion Wardrobe on a Budget

Of course, makeup is more complicated than buying the best products. You have to know how to put it on. Applying make-up can be challenging and this is where most people stumble the hardest. Thankfully, there are a lot of guides around the web that can help you with this. Bottom line is that you can do amazing things with make-up with some simple research on the web and lots and lots of practice. Believe me, my girls can contour and do eyebrows like a boss just from watching hours of Youtube Beauty Vloggers.

Colors

Know your colors. Color is the next challenge you’re going to come up against, with the hues and shades of your garments, accessories, and makeup all working together to form a unified look. Everyone will have their own preferences when it comes to color, and it makes sense that you would want to wear your favorites.

READ ALSO: Tarte Sugar Rush Collection is Adorable and Affordable

There are lots of things to consider that can factor into this equation like the color of your hair, eyes, and skin playing important roles. If you like bright colors but struggle to pull them off because of the tone of your skin, for example, it could be worth looking for ways to incorporate them as accents, rather than the main parts of each outfit. There are loads of guides around the web which can help you to choose the right colors for your clothing.

fashion, make-up. beauty, pro style tips, pro fashion tips

Keep It Simple

It’s easy to find yourself layering up beyond reason when you’re struggling to figure out a style that works for you, and a lot of people overdo it with their clothing. Nothing speaks louder than something simple, though, and this gives you an excellent route to go down when deciding on your styles. For example, if you’re able to find a dress or blouse you really like, you should use your other pieces to draw attention to the main garment. Simple necklaces will draw people’s eyes to the neckline while surrounding a skirt with basic shoes and a shirt will make people notice the skirt most of all.

Let History Guide You

People have been putting a lot of time and effort into fashion for a very long time. In fact, in some countries, this has become a source of national pride, and there is a rich history when it comes to the clothing people choose to wear. You can use the past as a resource, giving you the chance to draw inspiration from those who have dedicated their lives to fashion. Vintage and retro clothing is always popular and is a great way to create a unique, timeless look.

READ ALSO: Why Primark is the Best Place to Shop with Teenagers

These are just a few tips I’ve gathered from researching the web and years of being a woman in the world. The bottom line, do what makes you feel beautiful. Don’t worry about trends or what other people think, if it feels good on your body and it fits, wear it. The only person whose opinion accounts is your own.

What’s your best fashion and beauty tip for busy women who want to look and feel beautiful but not spend all day worrying about it?

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With each new season comes the innate desire to change the way we look. Changing weather feels like a time for a style rebirth. Changing your fashion style can lift your spirits and even change your perspective.

This fall there are so many cool trends that I can’t wait to try. Animal prints are in. Platforms are back. Pointy flats are back in style and so are tiered dresses, pleated skirts, feminine prints and cuts and, my favorite color,  Kelly green. So many fun trends, so little time.

READ ALSO: How to Teach Teenage Girls to Put on Make-Up

But it’s not just about what’s hot. There are things you can do to update your wardrobe and look without spending a small fortune on clothes and shoes. Though, that can be fun too. Below, you’ll find some fall style tips that will transform your look in no time – time a look and see what you can do!

fashion, make-up. beauty, pro style tips, pro fashion tips, fall style tips

Fall Style Tips That Will Transform Your Look

Get A Brand New Haircut

Why not do something that will make changing your look so much easier and get a brand new haircut? The great thing about getting a new haircut is that it’ll make any look you’ve previously worn completely different. You could have a bob, get a fringe, or both if you’re feeling brave. Try something new and you’ll see for yourself how simple this one is.

Try A New Makeup Look

If you tend to wear the same makeup time and time again, why not wear a new makeup look that’s perfect for fall? You could try a new lipstick shade, or even try a new eye look with a new shade of shadow or some liner. If you don’t usually wear feline flicks on your eyes, for instance, you could try it and see what you think. Great colors to wear on your eyes for fall include shades of orange, copper, red, brown, and even shades like purple! If you want to try something extra daring, try orange and purple together.

READ ALSO: How to have a Quality Fashion Wardrobe on a Budget

Switch Up Your Color Palette

If you tend to wear the same color palette all the time, switch things up this fall. For example, neutral wardrobes are easier to funk up with a bit of color. Black, beige, and other neutral shades can easily be matched with pops of color. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t do something new and exciting if you already wear color. If you do, try contrasting colors for something new and exciting. Have a signature color for fall that you don’t usually wear!

Add Some New Accessories 

New accessories can make outfits we’ve already worn look brand new. Try a new belt, some layered necklaces, or even a hat from a unique boutique. See if you can put together a collection of amazing accessories so that you can always try something new.

Stop Buying Into Fast Fashion

Fast fashion is usually cheap, and even if it’s not, that doesn’t mean it will last. Fast fashion is terrible for the environment, as more often than not it is only worn a few times and then ends up in a landfill. You’ll be doing yourself and the planet a huge favor by staying away from high street stores! Instead, don’t be afraid to spend a little more on high-quality items. You could even thrift and buy vintage pieces for something unique that is so much better for the environment.

READ ALSO: Is Green Fashion the Future?

Find Ways To Make Your Summer Pieces Work For Fall

See if you can find ways of making your summer pieces work for the fall months. For example, you could layer up a summer dress with a jacket or jumper and some thick tights or boots. You can also customize your jacket with cute enamel pins. You can check out the best place for custom enamel pins here. If you get creative it should be really easy to do this!

Try Out Oversized Pieces

Oversized pieces always look cool and can add a little grunge to any look. You could wear oversized shirts, for instance, or even oversized trousers. If you’re worried about looking shapeless, make sure you pair the oversized piece with another piece that is more figure-hugging.

Invest In An Amazing Pair Of Boots

An amazing pair of boots will always come in handy during fall. You can wear them with tights and dresses, jeans, and just about anything else you’re thinking of wearing. Make sure they are comfortable, that they fit well even with thicker socks on, and that they will match the majority of your wardrobe. You should know that you’re going to get plenty of wear out of them.

Find A Muse

If you’re unsure of where to go with your look, find a style muse. Even just check out Pinterest and see what crops up on there. You can make a mood board or a collage of the pieces and styles that appeal to you and then change up your look and wardrobe based on that. This doesn’t mean you should just go and blatantly copy somebody else’s style – that’s boring. Instead, take pieces from different looks and styles that you like and have fun with them.

READ ALSO: Fashion and Style Tips from Pros

Add Some Glasses

Glasses almost always make an outfit look better. Both sunglasses and regular glasses can be used to create an edgier, more layered look that everybody will love. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles – those little half-moon glasses might seem pointless, but they can add a super fun 90s vibe to a look!

Learn How To Layer 

Make sure you learn how to layer different pieces so that you’re prepared for anything. Wearing your favorite short-sleeved shirt under a jumper with the collar showing through, for example, is a great way to layer and can look really cool. Layering adds lots of texture and can give a unique look to just about anybody. You’ll probably also eliminate the need to buy lots of brand new clothes.

Define Your Style

What do you want your style to be this fall? How do you want your look to be different? Make sure you define your style and you shouldn’t have a problem when shopping or putting different pieces together. See if you can find 3 or 4 words that you would like to describe your style, and then keep these in mind when dressing or shopping. If the look doesn’t align with the words you have chosen, forget about the piece. There may be exceptions to the rule, but in general, doing this will allow you to ensure all of your outfit choices and pieces are in keeping with how you want to present yourself. You won’t have a strange mismatch of styles, either!

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Primark Boston, Why Primark is best place to shop with teenagers, teen fashion, budget friendly fashion

Do you live near a Primark? Me neither. But I do frequent Primark Boston when I’m in town each summer. What is Primark? It’s an Irish fast fashion retailer headquartered in Dublin, Ireland but is now the fastest growing retailer in the United Staes. We’re talking Depeche Mode at its finest if you ask me. But why do I think that Primark is the best place to shop with teenagers?

What does that mean? I think the about us page says it all…

Adored by fashion fans and value seekers alike Primark is widely established as the destination store for keeping up with the latest looks without breaking the bank.

Primark is an international retailer based out of Europe that offers the latest fashion, beauty and homeware trends at the best value on the high street. Simply put, amazing fashion at amazing prices. Don’t walk in there expecting Nordstrom quality but you won’t be paying Nordstrom prices either. In no way am I saying that the products are of bad quality. I am a big fan and my daughters are even bigger fans.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Boston with Teenagers and Tweenagers

All this to say, I love Primark. My daughters love Primark. Why? Because I can get them trendy clothes at a great price and good quality. But budget-friendly enough that I’m not going to get upset when they outgrow pieces or it goes out of style because we all know that trends change faster than a teenager’s mood these days.

Primark Boston, Why Primark is best place to shop with teenagers, teen fashion, budget friendly fashion

Not convinced that Primark is for you?

Let me give you 5 reasons that Primark is the best place to shop with teenagers.

Primark Boston, Why Primark is best place to shop with teenagers, teen fashion, budget friendly fashion

Primark has all different trends available.

Not into crop tops? Hate denim? Love denim? Love rompers? Prefer long dresses? No, more of a mini dress connoisseur? Maybe you love Harry Potter t-shirts? Or maybe Disney is more your speed? Perhaps you want to look a little more mature with some chic professional tops and blazers? No matter what you need, Primark has got you covered.

Primark Boston, Why Primark is best place to shop with teenagers, teen fashion, budget friendly fashion

Primark has constantly changing inventory.

Didn’t find anything you liked today? I’m calling bullsh*t because I never leave that place without finding something but if you did, come back tomorrow, there will probably be some new inventory. Awesome if you didn’t find anything yesterday but not fun if you found the perfect jeans and now you want 12 more pairs. Best to buy it when you see it. They don’t call it fast fashion just because.

Primark Boston, Why Primark is best place to shop with teenagers, teen fashion, budget friendly fashion

Try it Before You Buy It.

No, I don’t mean you can rent the runway at Primark but it sure is easier and more cost effective to buy that Zimmermann dupe before buying an actual Zimmerman piece with a much higher price tag. BTW, I love everything Zimmermann and if I could afford it, I’d have it all.

Primark Boston, Why Primark is best place to shop with teenagers, teen fashion, budget friendly fashion

Primark has Cute Clothes that you won’t find everywhere else.

Well, at least you won’t find these pieces at your local Target or Kohls. I feel like the pieces are more fashion-forward than some other staples. For example, I saw lots of pastel flower patterns, cotton eyelet dresses and paper bag pants and shorts on the runway this spring but I’m not seeing those in the stores, at least not here in the Midwest. I love that we can get cute clothes and won’t see everyone else in town wearing them.

Primark Boston, Why Primark is best place to shop with teenagers, teen fashion, budget friendly fashion

Primark is budget friendly.

I will post my last haul below. I spent around $150 between 2 trips. At any other store, I would have only gotten a fraction of the items and I can guarantee that I wouldn’t have had the selection of sizes and variety.

Still not convinced that Primark is for you and your family?

READ ALSO: How to have a High Fashion Wardrobe on a Budget   

Primark Boston, Why Primark is best place to shop with teenagers, teen fashion, budget friendly fashion

This is what $150 got me at Primark:

3 pairs of culottes $12 per pair

1 pair of awesome fit, high-waist, skinny, raw edge jeans $24 (*Best jeans ever).

2 Flutter sleeved, cotton eyelet blouses $17 each

1 adorable pair of Aladdin lounge pants $11

Primark Boston, Why Primark is best place to shop with teenagers, teen fashion, budget friendly fashion

1 pack of Harry Potter socks (the softest socks I’ve ever owned) $2 ( on sale)

Cropped blouse with arrows on it $5 (on sale)

6 pairs of lightweight lounge shorts $4 per pair

1 lightweight festival dress $17

Primark Boston, Why Primark is best place to shop with teenagers, teen fashion, budget friendly fashion

I don’t know about you but that’s a steal because that’s what I normally pay for one blouse/dress at Free People. And yes, I do love Free People and I mostly, shop the FP sales at Macy’s but still I could never get this many pieces for this price, not even at Target. With Primark Boston we don’t even have to worry about what to pack for our trips to Boston because we know we’ll be buying plenty.

Did I mention that the girls got so many cute and trendy outfits? They are like little kids in a candy shop every time we hit Primark. Maybe I should change the saying to like teenagers in Primark Boston. Every time we visit Boston, this is the first place the girls want to hit. In fact, hotel distance from Primark may even be a factor when we travel. Shhh, don’t tell the Big Guy.

Primark Boston, Why Primark is best place to shop with teenagers, teen fashion, budget friendly fashion

Have you ever shopped at Primark Boston? Or any Primark? What do you think of it?

Are you a Primark devotee or can you take it or leave it?

We’re obviously obsessed.

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Gucci sunglasses, gucci women sunglasses,gucci for women , gucci for men, fashion for moms, designer wardrobe on a budget, prada, dior, louboutin, chanel

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Do you love brand name and designer clothing, accessories and shoes? Be honest, do you want them because you genuinely love them or is it more of a status symbol, like in middle school? Hey, I’m not belittling your “why”, I’m just asking. If we’re telling truths, and I usually am, brands matter to me. I don’t choose a product because you’ve slapped a fancy name like Versace, Prada, Dior or Gucci on it. But I do love these brands.

I don’t like it because my favorite celebrities rock it or some rapper is singing about it. BTW, no child should be rocking Gucci on the regular, though I was completely fine with mine rocking Burberry. Hey, a woman’s got to have her limits. The point is I like the quality behind the label. If you know me, you’ve probably heard me say, “I’d rather pay $200 or even $500 for a pair of jeans that I’ll wear every day than $50 for a pair that I’ll never wear because then I threw $50 in the trash.”

This is how I came to know the answer to the question, ” Are Gucci sunglasses worth the price tag?”

For me, the answer didn’t come right away. I love big, beautiful sunglasses. I collect them. They protect my eyes from the sun and they protect my face from wrinkles. I’ve been rocking sunglasses since before it was cool to do so. But other than a pair of Oakly sunglasses the Big Guy bought me back when we first started dating, I’ve never owned or paid more than $75 for sunglasses.

READ ALSO: How to Have a Designer Wardrobe on a Mom Budget

Once I became a mom, forget about it. For one, babies like to pull sunglasses off your face to see their mommy and throw those suckers to the ground. I can’t tell you how many pairs of beloved sunglasses were thrown to the pavement and scratched beyond repair. Sure, I tried to wear them but they were essentially making my blind. I resigned myself to the fact that I couldn’t have nice things (unless it was jewelry, bags or shoes) and there started my tenure as queen of the under $25 sunglasses. I just couldn’t risk it.

 

Gucci sunglasses, gucci women sunglasses,gucci for women , gucci for men, fashion for moms, designer wardrobe on a budget, prada, dior, louboutin, chanel

But are Gucci sunglasses for women worth the price tag?

Once again, the Big Guy gifted me my first pair of Gucci sunglasses for our anniversary last year. He knew I needed new sunglasses and he knew I liked them big and beautiful and he is sort of a sunglasses for men connoisseur himself so he got them for me. It surprised me because I totally wasn’t expecting them but really wanted them. I just can’t make myself spend $300 + dollars on Gucci sunglasses ( or any other women sunglasses for that matter). Buying for others is not an issue but for myself, I need a steep markdown (because there is always something else that I can spend the money on). It’e the mom guilt. We don’t allow ourselves these little pleasures.

READ ALSO: How to Teach Teenage Girls to Put on Makeup

I love third markdown designer everything. There is some sort of satisfaction that comes from knowing you got a quality ( not irregular or last season) piece of clothing, shoes, accessories or handbags for a reduced price. Fortunately, the Big Guy is not as frugal as I am. That’s how I got these amazing sunglasses.

Gucci sunglasses, gucci women sunglasses,gucci for women , gucci for men, fashion for moms, designer wardrobe on a budget, prada, dior, louboutin, chanel

Yes, Gucci Sunglasses are worth the price tag!

But why, Debi? Why are Gucci women sunglasses worth the price tag? Why would anyone pay $300 + dollars for women sunglasses, men sunglasses or Gucci sunglasses when that could pay for 2 weeks of groceries? Because you can’t get the groceries if you can’t see to drive to the grocery store. You can wreck when you are being blinded by the sun. You will get wrinkles if you try to squint through life while looking into the sun. Guess what costs more than $300? BOTOX!

You’re shaking your head and thinking to yourself, how wasteful to spend that kind of money for sunglasses. I would have agreed with you 2 weeks ago but then one morning I drove home from dropping the kids off at school and I looked directly into the sun…like Wonder Woman and I was unaffected. Nobody was blinded. I did not squint or swerve. I looked directly in the direction I needed to without any squinting or wincing. Looking life right in the eyes is empowering and that is priceless.

READ ALSO: Why Mom Guilt is Useless

While I never would have bought them for myself and I hardly even wore them for months because it felt embarrassing to be so opulent in my everyday life. Just like I feel like a jerk every time I carry the Louis Vuitton the Big Guy me a few years ago for an anniversary. Then it hit me. I deserve nice things. And it’s only wasteful if I don’t use these things. If I wear my Gucci sunglasses every day, for drop-offs and picks ups to school and ballet; in yoga pants and cocktail dresses, then I’ve used them $300 worth and so I am.

So, yes Gucci sunglasses are worth the price tag because I’m worthy of nice things and so are you. Buy the Gucci, buy the Louis, buy the Louboutins and the Chanel….just make sure that you have the money to buy the groceries too.

What is your favorite designer brand piece of fashion that you own or have dreamed of owning? Why and what makes it special to you? Now, go treat yo self!

 

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about, the truth about motherhood, motherhood, parenting, Deborah Cruz, the truth, How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordstroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school, The Truth about Motherhood, Latina mom, Chicago,baby, pregnancy, conception, family travel, teen, parenting, Deborah Cruz, the truth, Disney

Do you dream of a high fashion wardrobe but you don’t have a trendy label fashion budget? I love clothes and so do my girls and (shhh) even the Big Guy. Fashion is our passion after travel and equal to food. We love nice clothes that feel good, wear well and look good on us. My favorite clothes are the ones that are made so well that you feel naked when you wear them. Not too bulky. Not too tight. No gross cheapy fabrics that hang weird. I want clothes that fit and move with my body and look and feel good on me. When I learned to shop smart, it elevated my fashion game to a whole new level.

My current wardrobe is pretty amazing. I’ve been a “clothes whore” since it was “clothes horse”. That’s how long I’ve been addicted to fashion. I got my first job just for that specific reason, to buy myself a trendy fashion wardrobe. But, full disclosure, I’m also pretty budget-conscious. What can I say, I grew up poor and as much as I love the good life and nice things, spending money on myself isn’t something that I think I will ever be comfortable with.

Now, before you go thinking I’m cheap. I’m not. But I am very aware and I love a good sale. I don’t love a sale for the sake of a sale. I know people like that. No, I don’t have a stock room full of Rag and Bone Jeans or Free People dresses because they were on sale for half off. I don’t hoard clothes the way Mama June hoards toilet paper. I only like to spend money on things I want and to some degree need. And unfortunately, I couldn’t wear a stock room full of jeans in a lifetime.

READ ALSO: Fashion Police, please

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

I realized a long time ago that it makes more sense to spend $150 on a good pair of jeans that I’ll wear every day than a $25 on a pair of jeans that I will never wear. In one case, I’ve wasted $25. In the other case, I’ve gotten every bit of $150 of use out of those jeans. This is how I approach shopping. I am in it for the long game most days. I look at a good piece of fashion as an investment.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

There definitely is a difference in higher quality products versus lesser quality ones. You definitely get what you pay for unless you shop wisely. I’ll be honest, I want $500 quality for $100 so I shop like it’s my job.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

If you want to take your wardrobe from Target and Kohls to Nordstrom and Macy’s or even to Louis Vuitton and Burberry, these tricks work to get you the fashion wardrobe that you want and deserve. Believe me when I tell you, once you go quality fashion over trendy chic ( though, I still do love Primark, Zara and Target for cute trendy pieces for myself and the girls) you will never go back. It’s like trying to go back to a PC after using Mac. It’s just too impossible to do. You can’t unknow the good life.

Here are my tips for owning an amazing, high-quality fashion wardrobe on a budget that will last forever and fit like they were made for your body.

  1. How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-schoolShop your favorite brands when they are on sale.

Fashion seasons don’t match up with actual seasons. So don’t worry about being out of style. By the time the average person is buying their swimsuits, the fashion industry is marking it down because it’s already out of season. Fashion has to be ahead of the curve, you do not. For example, the day after the 4th of July, you can find crazy sales on bathing suits and summer clothing. If you live in the Midwest, like me, you know summer doesn’t really start until July anyway.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

2. Christmas in July.

All the Big brands have Christmas in July sales and the sales are amazing. With a little planning, you can save a ton on everything from half price appliances, to hot tubs and especially fashion.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

3.Nordstroms Annual Sale

It’s everything you want, on sale. All the name brands that your heart desires. You just have to be patient. Building an amazing wardrobe is a long game.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

4.Macy’s Stackable Sales

Ok, Macy’s lets you stack sales up to 5, I believe. So does Kohls for that matter ( if you are thinking back-to-school for the kids). Also, in case you weren’t aware, there are constantly sales going on at Macy’s. Like constantly. I am a Free People junkie. I will freely admit that I am obsessed with their products. I have gotten great deals where I have paid less than half.

  1. Prime Day

Not sure that you are going to find crazy couture on Prime Day but whatever you find will be a steal and even if it’s just a few really good quality pieces, a deal is a deal and that’s money to be spent on something else. For instance, I’ve been eyeballing a pair of Stella McCartney shoes. While the shoes are most likely not on a Prime Day sale, maybe something else is and that extra saved money can go towards my Stellas.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

6.Back-to-School

When it’s back-to-school time, everybody is shopping for their children but guess what? Sales are not just restricted to your children. College-aged people go “back-to-school” too and they are full human sized. Get your sale on. Everything is on sale. Go take advantage.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

7. Outlet Malls

Not all outlet malls are created equal. You need to find yourself a good fashion outlet mall. I have a couple favorites. I’ve scored some crazy deals on Burberry and Kate Spade at these malls. You just have to go there with an open mind.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

8. Shop the Sales Rooms and Racks at your favorite high-end stores.

One of my absolute favorite stores to shop at is Von Maur and they have amazing sales. Eventually, everything ends up on the sale rack and they do 3 markdowns and being that I’ve been a loyal customer for over a decade, I know the days they do first markdowns and subsequent markdowns. Plus, they have absolutely the best customer service, no interest, free shipping and gift wrapping. They are heaven to my budget friendly high fashion wardrobe heart. Did I mention they have an entire room for markdown shoes? Also, FYI, places like Intermix and Anthropologie also have great sales racks. You just have to be willing to take the time to search for them. You may be thinking, that sounds like so much work and I don’t have the time. I get that. I really do but what if you could find a Burberry bag for $100 that is normally $800. Is it worth it then?

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

9. Try it before You make a Huge Investment

Last but not least, if you want something trendy and you are not sure it’s “your style” but you want to try it, by all means, hit up your local Target, H&M, Zara or Primark. The prices are definitely affordable, the clothes are cute and you get a big bang for your buck. The thing is don’t expect Burberry quality at Target prices. Though, I highly recommend checking out the Target special collaborations whenever they are available. It’s a great way to dip your toe into high fashion without high fashion prices.

How to have a high quality fashion wardrobe, fashion on a budget, quality fashion, high fashion for less money, Nordtroms, Macys, Nordstrom Sale, Prime Day, Von Maur, back-to-school

10. Consignment

It is not a dirty word. I am not telling you to go to Good Will and find yourself some couture. Though, depending on where you live, that may be an option. Where I live, in the burbs, it is not. But if you are are in Chicago, NYC or L.A. gently used high fashion at a bargain basement price may not be a bad thing. In fact, in my mind, that would make you the winner, winner chicken dinner. Hell, you may even have money left to buy yourself some groceries.

There are sites like ThreadUp that can help you get that high fashion wardrobe that you covet on a reality-based mom’s budget. My favorite non-traditional ways to shop is via my favorite fashion bloggers. Look, I’m aware that some influencers might promote items because they are being paid to but honestly, I don’t care. I care about how it looks, how it fits and what it cost.

One of my absolute favorite fashion bloggers, Paola Alberdi of Blank Itinerary, always features a swipe up feature on her outfits on Instagram and not only does she share the brands she is wearing, she shares ” for less”  copy this look styles. Occasionally, if she is going to get rid of something she no longer uses, she will offer it up at a huge discount to her fans.

To be honest, you can have the fashion wardrobe that you’ve always wanted on a budget, you just have to be willing to plan and check often. It won’t be a Target budget but it’ll be worth it. You just have to decide how much you want a piece and figure out the best way to get it at an affordable price.

READ ALSO: Honey, where did all the Toilet Paper Go?

I know there are women who know how to coupon like it’s their job. They have mastered the art of saving money on food and household goods. I wish I could. I hate paying for toilet paper. But, as it stands, I can’t even remember to present the coupons…that I picked off the product…in the store to the cashier.

But, I can sniff out a Kate Spade bag on final markdown like a drug-seeking German shepherd at the airport. This is my gift and I am teaching my girls the same. Why pay full price when you can get whatever you want on sale? That’s the key…what.you.want! Life is too short to put up with uncomfortable fashion to save a few bucks and, repeat after me, every woman deserves a Louis Vuitton. And believe me, it all goes on sale. You just have to want it, look for it and be patient.

What are your secrets for how to get a high fashion wardrobe on a budget?

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