Wednesday, January 19, 2011

A Glamorous Budget

black and white 3 - Copy 
black and white 5
black and white 7
black and white 2 - Copy
Cardigan-H&M, Dress(worn as a top)-Forever21, Skirt- J. Crew (seen before here), Shoes-Cathy Jean, Handbag-vintage, Necklace-House of Harlow, Watch-Michael Kors (shop similar), Bangles-c/o Kenneth Cole 

I've really been into mixing prints, patterns and fabrics lately. The timing is perfect since I'm trying to save money and it's fun to see how I can remix my closet. It gives new life to clothes that I've worn many times before (like here, here and here). Experimenting makes me feel like my closet is new again, but it's ridiculously difficult. I'm not sure I could commit to 30 outfits for 30 days. To keep from suffering from too much frugality, I focus on little things that make me feel glamorous. 

Here are my six ways to feel glamorous on a budget: 
1. Stock up on samples. 
My sister gave me a few designer perfumes samples in my Christmas stocking and my bestie Priscilla gave me a ton of Philosopy skincare samples.  I can look and smell great without the hefty price tag. 
2. Break a sweat.
Nothing makes me feel more confident and beautiful than working out. Plus it's free! If I'm feeling down or have the urge to shop I just throw on my running shoes and hit the pavement. After, I feel invigorated and could care less about shopping.
3. Home spa day. 
Once a week I do something to beautify myself. I give myself an egg white facial, a mani/pedi or I deep condition my hair. 
4. Me time. 
I love curling up on the couch with a glass of wine, chocolate, and Vogue magazine while a Audrey Hepburn,  Woody Allen, or Sofia Coppola movie plays in the background. #purebliss 
5. Clean it up. 
I love a clean and organized home. I clean the sheets, make the bed, and treat myself to fresh flowers. It's hard work, but worth it. 
6. Put my face on. 
Since I'm home most of the day it's tempting to stay in my pajamas (which I do more than I care to admit). Lately, I'm making an effort to put on a little makeup and do my hair. It's amazing how it boosts my confidence even when no one is around. 

97 comments:

pancakestacker said...

I don't know if I could do a 30 x 30 challenge either! I still love that amazing J Crew skirt. If only they still had it! Maybe I'll get lucky!


http://pancakeSTACKER.blogspot.com

misshannie said...

I *love* this outfit. I love the mix of the gold skirt with the striped cardigan.

Fab look!

Much love,
Hannie - Tea and Biscuits
xoxo

Amber's Notebook said...

I couldn't agree more with every point!! And loved the advice!

And I think holly Golightly couldn't either, we just may be too free for constraints of the 30 by 30, while we still respect it!

All while typed while Marilyn guides me in the background...
Amber's Notebook

Alex said...

THis is absolutely gorgeous. I love the mix of textures. Amazing!

http://popculturemyth.blogspot.com/

G said...

I love this article :) to the extent where I've bookmarked for ideas when I feel I need pampering on my tight budget!

This is a cliche, but I do think you are an inspiration!

ashley cooper said...

Love the sequin skirt mixed with the horizontal stripes. Great combo!!! Have a great day dear.

R Orozco said...

I love the advice you give. I need to put some of that into practice.

Miyan said...

cute post and can totally relate to hitting the pavement when you feel a shopping craving coming over you, it really works! i love this house of harlow necklace, i posted about it here: http://miyan-overseas.blogspot.com/2011/01/yes-please.html

Miyan

www.miyan-overseas.blogspot.com

The Fashion Cloud said...

love your skirt and it looks amazing on you

xx

Sarah said...

Great outfit I think the different patterns and materials work - im inspired in fact! x

Helena - A Diary of Lovely said...

looking gorgeous as usual Taylor, love everything and I really want that necklace, might have to get it soon!
I committed to the 30-30 mainly to cut down a bit next month, we shall see

Gabby / Gypsy*Diaries said...

Ah I couldn't agree with you more! Your 6 points are all, one way or another, part of my new year resolutions... :)
xxx

http://gypsy-diaries.blogspot.com/

Márcia Sousa Ribeiro said...

Love the outfit!! So trendy!!!
Márcia (Portugal)
mytrueoptions.blogspot.com

jEm said...

Great outfit Taylor I love the stripes paired with the gold skirt!


Julie
www.hiddenjems.blogspot.com

Kim said...

Ooh, this is very very pretty, I would definitely wear something like that! Actually I have the same jacket and I'm also a big fan of lace & sequins. Nice!
brunetteblogging.com

ediot said...

such a great post darling. love the glambudget tips.
and you look so lovely in that outfit.
hope you're having a good week so far
xx

Ruthie {Look Learn Love} said...

Great ideas! While I don't want to admit there are other ways to be happy and feel great other then shopping these were pretty good :) Feeling the stripes big time right now!

Cassie said...

I love this list and I agree with everything you say...although romantic comedies playing in the background is more my thing! :)

Unknown said...

love this look darling!! i attempted the remix last time but couldn't resist cheating a few times!
XO

Taylor Marie said...

I am actually kinda obsessed with this outfit! I am loving the stripes with the lace and the sequins, such a great combo! :)

Lindsey Regan Thorne @ be pretty said...

I LOVE seeing you re-use your wardrobe in different ways... Love this skirt and each time you wear it you wear it differently and tastefully! Love! Love the cardi too!

ThE fAsHiOn WoRsHiPeR said...

Love this outfit, all the textures & colors are amazing....nice tips doll, thanks for sharing :)

XoXo-Kelli K
http://thefashionworshiper.blogspot.com

Closet Fashionista said...

Love the outfit!! And yes, those are great ways to feel glamorous on a budget!!! :D
http://aclosetfashionista.blogspot.com/

Unknown said...

GREAT outfit. Love the high/low and glam/casual mix!

After having my son and being in pajamas and old sweatpants constantly I did the same thing...HAD TO DO MY HAIR AND MAKEUP! It totally motivates you (it actually inspired me to start my blog and talk about looking great as a new mom and not losing yourself or your style)
Kudos to you!
C

NobodyKnowsMarc said...

nice skirt!
maybe we can follow each other..

www.nobodyknowsmarc.blogspot.com

PS: I've just added a bunch of Vintage stuff in my SHOP..
www.nobodyknowsmarcshop.blogspot.com

Unknown said...

i wish i could do a 30x30 too, but i just travel way too muc...it'd be impossible!

love your outfit, taylor!

Kathryn said...

You have the coveted skirt, that J. Crew sold out in a matter of days! I love it! Lace, stripes, and sequins make the perfect combination. You look dazzling. xo

Kathryn

http://sweetteaandchampagne.wordpress.com

Ronisha said...

Love !!!!

http://vannoybfashion-ronisha119.blogspot.com

Alex said...

I have that blazer and skirt so I am totally going to try something similar to this! Gorgeous combination :)

A

Liz (26 and Counting) said...

I would love to see you do the 30 for 30 challenge! {but I understand if you don't}. Also - great budget tips! Beauties samples - what a great idea :)

kristine [kristine. or polly.] said...

You are absolutely fabulous! Love your blog. And the sequins w/ stripe combo is fantastic.


Kristine. Or Polly.

Jaime @ laviejaime said...

lace, sequins, AND stripes? I love! :)

Nadine2point0 said...

Great post - you look beautiful :)

Anonymous said...

Great advice!! And I LOVE the outfit! Black and white with a touch of gold is so chic!

xo

www.lovelifelace.com

Luxx Mint said...

Gorgeous, I love this skirt so much.

Great tips too x

The doll on fashion

Renee Nabam said...

haha..love these tips...!!
love the gold metallic skirt!

Kate said...

These tips are actually very helpful, thanks! And I love the casual stripes with the sequin skirt.

http://basiikblog.blogspot.com

Chaucee said...

Whoa you got the Jcrew skirt! That thing was so beautiful when it was up on the website. I hope you were able to get it on sale. Those type of things only go on my wishlist *sigh*

Doganiam Motyle said...

so great look

Anna said...

Home spa day sounds like a perfect little treat. Thanks for sharing the things that make your day brighter.

Anonymous said...

You look lovely dear!:)

Taylor Sterling said...

Thank you ladies!

Style-Pursuit said...

Just like all other girls I'm crazy about your skirt! It's one of the things I'm seriously lusting after! :o)

x

Marcie said...

Great simple tips, Taylor! I think everyone is looking for ways to cut back but still feel inspired and invigorated. I know I am on a shopping fast until April and am knee keep in a closet re-org.

xo Marcie

Natalie Suarez said...

i have always loved that jcrew skirt! :)

natalieoffduty.blogspot.com

Tiffany Kadani said...

You are so right about everything here. I love how you live such a fulfilled life. You are a great example of a go getter with the right priorities.

Alicia Lund said...

I always admire girls with awesome style on a budget over those that aren't on a budget. Anyone can make designer clothes look great - but turning Forever 21 items / pieces from your closet into a new fresh look definitely has style! ;)

Cindy Van Dyck said...

You look so beautiful in that jacket!!

devorelebeaumonstre. said...

I love the different textures here. & I couldn't agree more with your tips. xx


devorelebeaumonstre.com

fashion clocked said...

love all the tips- great ideas...although the egg white facial sounds very weird and maybe wonderful? Love the fun you are having mixing things up day and night, textures and prints. gorgeous. katie.xx

fashion clocked

Miranda said...

I love how you mixed all of my favorite things (lace, glitter and stripes) and made it look good!

www.indcfashion.com

Christina said...

I completely agree with you. There are some many thing you can do to make yourself feel glamorous instead of things to buy. I am participating in the 30 for 30 challenge. Eek!

Rebecca Maureen said...

Just the an amazing look and perfectly balanced mix of prints. I hope you're enjoying the "me" time- I know how frustrating and yet nice it is all at the same time.

Meghan said...

love this look, taylor! and the post in general. fabulous outlook on wardrobe (and life :))

suzanne said...

haha my mom always says "put her face on." i love it! or she says, "you need lips" (referring to lipstick). and it's true - a little bit of "lips" or some mascara can do wonders!

have fun mixing & matching!

-suzanne
http://awkwardlychic.blogspot.com

Jennifer Dawn said...

I love this outfit! It's amazing. And great tips on how to feel glamorous!

http://andohsofancy.blogspot.com

joelle van dyne said...

i love the mix of sparkles and stripes in this outfit! it looks amazing. and i agree with all your tips. i've been really trying to do some kind of home spa thing lately, especially during the winter. ~joelle

monster cakes said...

Love the different textures mixed into this outfit! It's beautiful! And I always arrange a girl's night clothing swap when I'm super low and cash and want to make a fun night out of old clothes!

Beautygirl24 said...

Thank you for these wonderful tips! You are such a great source of inspiration!
♥ Noelle beautygirl24.blogspot.com

veronicaa said...

These are some awesome ideas. I love your skirt and what great ways to clear up the winter blahs!!!
:)

Gorgeous outfit pretty lady!



XO Veronica
fashi0npassi0n.blogspot.com

Tari said...

I WANT YOUR SKIRT! lol.
I was eyeing it, but then it sold out :(

Lisa said...

I LOVE the glitter + stripes.

Also, great tips! I hate cleaning, but I'm slowly learning that the finished product and feeling is worth the effort. I just have to keep that in mind as I do it.

Jamie said...

I love sitting on the couch with fashion magazines! It's so relaxing and just time for me! :))

http://www.glamlatte.com

Becky said...

Love all those suggestions and the skirt is gorgeous!

Moosette said...

I have this skirt (obsessed) and I love seeing all the diffeent ways you wear it! I have been trying to do the same thing with my wardrobe lately... and have rediscovered old favs that I forgot about!

Josie said...

I love how you mixed all of these gorgeous textures, doll! You look stunning. And I love your tips for being fabulous on a budget... Brilliant!
xo Josie
http://winksmilestyle.blogspot.com

Lainey said...

Yeah, that whole 30 items would be very hard for me too. But I'm loving what you're doing with it so far. That jacket has always been one of my faves from you and of course-everything sequined looks phenomenal.

Alex said...

I love your outfit! black and white and gold glitter and lace...never wouldve of though of it but all the pieces complement eachother really well.

checkout my giveaway :)

http://alltheprettystuff.blogspot.com/2011/01/valentines-giveaway.html

Caroline said...

Your outfit in this is by far one of my favorites and this post is so inspiring. Going back to being a student, and thankfully done in June, my pockets aren't as full BUT honestly, when I have a great yoga session or run I simply could careless. Taylor, you are so inspiring! And, we must grab a drink at cin cin, go on a run, or simply hit up the downtown farmers' market. Love, Love, Love this post!!!!!

Anonymous said...

Love the HoH necklace!

Anonymous said...

u look so freakin fab as ever and i love your tips here!! xo, Kim www.eatsleepwear.com

Rene Braun said...

Very Nice advise!!! And I love YOur look!!!

WWW.RENEBRAUN.COM

You are welcome to visit my blog too :)) Kisses!

taylor said...

great tips! your hair looks amazing in the photos!

The Bohemienne said...

What an adorable outfit!

Ashley said...

Great tips for staying glamorous on a budget!
Great outfit, thank you for inspiring me to mix and match more with what I have while recovering from holiday spending OVERLOAD!

ash
www.countrygirlcityworld.com

Genevieve said...

I totally agree with you about putting on the makeup and getting out of your house clothes! It's easy to let those things slide when you are at home most of the time. Even a dab of lip gloss can totally change your mood.

Halie said...

Love the different textures and colors.

Follow me
http://halielandry.blogspot.com/

Bianca said...

These really are such wonderful ways to feel glamorous on a budget! I think I am going to give that egg white mask a try...

http://alittlewhitemouse.blogspot.com/

quintessence said...

Adorable outfit and great suggestions for feeling glamorous on a budget!

Gaby [The Vault Files] said...

Great tips, I also agree with exercising and dressing up even if you're staying at home. I'm in love with that necklace ;)

o said...

Love the mixing of patterns and texture here, Taylor! I never would have thought of stripes and sequins, but it works! Sigh...so envious of ur J.Crew skirt & H&M blazer=P It's been on my wishlist foreva! lol -AB

TheOwlsCloset.blogspot.com

emily//thelesserpanda said...

I have the same skirt! I just wore it last weekend. It looks great on you Taylor.

Emily//TheLesserPanda

Dylana Suarez said...

Stripes and gold is a glamorous combo! You look stellar blogging bud!

xoxo,

colormenana.blogspot.com

Peace Love & All Things Creative said...

you are so cute!

Sammy said...

Great tips. Thanks for sharing Taylor :)

Sam

classiq said...

I love this mix of basics and glittery skirt

Anonymous said...

Thank you for sharing your tips!
I'm a student living with a budget so it was a great help:)

xoxo,
Yuka
www.blossomlink.wordpress.com

Santina said...

Black and white stripes could never go wrong with me! Amazing mix of textures and prints!

Santina

Unknown said...

Absolutely loving how you paired the striped cardi with the sequined skirt! Such a fab look!!

www.meg-land.blogspot.com
xx

Tanya Dempsey said...

I so agree with all of these tips. Especially the home spa day, me time, and put your face on! This outfit is adorable too! It's amazing what mixing it up can do for your closet. I'm tempted to do that challenge...

xx

November Grey

Antonia Serio said...

I love this jacket :D My sister has it :D
Cme int my blog if you want, you're welcome :)
Kisses

http://haiundisperatobisognodichanel.blogspot.com/

Priscilla Francine Makeup said...

How is your skin responding to the philosophy? Did it work? Did you like them?

Let me know :)

priscillafrancinemakeup.com

http://pfsmakeup.blogspot.com/

Sarah said...

love the mix of textures and prints here

The High Heel Times said...

Excellent as always, I totally love this look!

Unknown said...

I have this jacket from H&M and its been sitting in my closet for months because I cant seem to put together and outfit. You nailed it and have inspired me to dig this piece out from the back of the closet (tag is still on it!).

Rebecca Jane said...

Ahh the sequined skirt! I love it.

Jenn said...

I've just started to read your blog and I'm loving it! Only one problem - I can`t seem to view a lot of your pictures...Am I the only follower having this problem?

Thanks for the inspiration :)

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