Shopping Challenge – Thrifty Threads 365

In lieu of Living Fly on a Dime’s one year anniversary, I wanted to embark on a major project. Check out the brief video below on Thrifty Threads 365.

Who: Me (Patrice)

What: Thrifty Threads 365, a year long endeavor where I will not purchase any new clothing or accessories. I can only buy second-hand items from thrift stores or flea markets. The only new goods I can purchase are underwear and  I can utilize gift cards that have been given to me (via promotional items, presents, etc).

Why: I’ve always enjoyed thrifting but I really want to demonstrate that no matter what your budget is, you can have a fly wardrobe that suits your style. This is also a great way to save money.

When: September 1, 2010 (the official one year anniversary of Living Fly on a Dime) to September 1, 2011.

I know this is a lofty endeavor to take on, but I’m really excited. Thrifty Threads 365 is also open to any readers who want to join me in the challenge. Maybe you don’t want to give up shopping for a year, but maybe just a few months.

What’s the longest you’ve ever gone without shopping? Any tips for my challenge? Interested in joining in on the challenge?

Tags: Patrice's style, thrift shopping, Thrift Stores, Thrifty Threads 365

Thrifty Threads

It’s Friday, so you know what that means…another installment of Thrifty Threads, where I showcase my thrifted and/or cheap chic finds. No matter what the cost, you can always create a look that’s fun and fly.

I know some people despise jeggings but I adore them. Jeans + leggings = sartorial heaven for me. They’re just as versatile as jeans (dress them up or down depending on your footwear) and as comfy as leggings.

I had to run errands for the day so I needed a look that was functional (i.e. not my usual stilettos) but still cute.

Breakdown:
Shirt: New York & Co., $1 via Goodwill
Vest: Emanuel Ungaro, $1 via Housing Works
Jeggings: New York & Co., $13
Necklace: DIY project
Earrings: Forever 21, $4
Bracelet: necklace worn as a bracelet, gifted
Sandals: Strawberry, $8

Tags: DIY, Goodwill, Housing Works, jeggings, Patrice's style

Thrifty Threads

It’s Friday, so you know what that means…another installment of Thrifty Threads, where I showcase my thrifted and/or cheap chic finds. No matter what the cost, you can always create a look that’s fun and fly.

You ever feel like you have nothing to wear? Or you’ve worn everything in your closet a million times before? Yeah, that’s what I went through last weekend.

I wanted to wear my comfy Banana Republic shorts (last seen here and here) with my fave bag (last seen here), my go to embellished sandals (last seen here) and my dangly earrings (last seen here).

Luckily I found a sheer, long sleeve shirt I hadn’t worn all summer. Tim Gunn’s voice echoed in my ear, “Make it work.” And that’s exactly what I did. I rolled up the sleeves and belted the waist for a look that was cute and comfy {or at least I think so}.

Breakdown:
Shirt: $1, via Goodwill
Belt:$1, via Goodwill
Shorts: Banana Republic, $1 via Goodwill
Sandals: $8, Strawberry
Bag: Nine West, $30 via Strawberry
Earrings and Bracelets: $5, via Flea Market

How do you guys give new life to the clothes you’ve worn over and over?

Tags: Banana Republic, Goodwill, Patrice's style

DIY – Floral Bib Necklace

I had some left over trimmings from the DIY Bloggers Challenge and I felt inspired to make a pretty little creation. Bib necklaces were huge last season and they’re still going strong. The statement making pieces are a great way to add flair to a plain tank or bare neckline. I used this Express necklace (above, left) as inspiration for my one of a kind piece.

{material: chain, crazy glue, pronged studs, artificial flower petals}

Click more to see the easy step by step instructions…

› Continue reading

Tags: accessories, DIY, Patrice's style

Thrifty Threads

It’s Friday, so you know what that means…another installment of Thrifty Threads, where I showcase my thrifted and/or cheap chic finds. No matter what the cost, you can always create a look that’s fun and fly.

Last night was the AOL Blogger’s Night Out and I wanted my outfit to be the three Cs (cute, comfy and chic). I bought an adorable black tunic a few years ago and I typically wear it with skinny jeans or leggings but I switched it up and added some shorts underneath. The matching shorts gave it a more seamless look. The purple platforms were a great accent of color to the black and white combo.

Breakdown:
Dress: De Janeiro, $15
Belt: thrifted, $1
Purse: Nine West, $30 via Strawberry
Shorts: Banana Republic, thrifted for $1
Shoes: Paris Hilton, $49 via TJ Maxx
Ring: Urban Outfitters, $5
Bracelets: gifts

Tags: Goodwill, Nine West, Patrice's style, TJ Maxx