Announcing: GRAND PRIZE WINNER! Breeza's Shopping Night Out with Riviera Magazine & Boutiquing.com

Congratulations Lucia Dilucchio, you're the lucky lady who will be beaming with this Grand Prize bounty!

GRAND PRIZE INCLUDES:

$50 Gift Certificate from Vocabulary
$40 Gift Certificate from M Collection
$65 Clutch from Moda Viajando
$50 Gift Certificate from Wish Boutique
$50 Gift Certificate from Liz Larios
$50 Gift Certificate from Nicole Miller
Wildfox Tee from Shop Moderne

Thank you to all the lovely ladies and staff at Riviera Magazine and the beautiful Breeza downtown for providing the breathe taking backdrop for an amazing evening!

(Photo: Vocabulary boutique featured on the Breeza rooftop)

Breeza's Shopping Night Out
with Riviera Magazine 3/18/10
See the event photo gallery HERE

Many thanks to Tricia Meteer from Equinox Photo for capturing
the night with artistic flare!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Become a Fan on FACEBOOK
Follow Us on TWITTER
Stay Up-to-Date, get Boutiquing in YOUR INBOX

Copyright 2009 Boutiquing.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior written consent.

VIP Shopping Event with Riviera Magazine

We are pleased to personally invite you:

V.I.P. Shopping Event
with Riviera Magazine
in collaboration with Boutiquing.com

This Thursday, March 18th
6-10pm

Shop San Diego's best boutiques at the breathtaking Breeza high-rise downtown.

Swanky setting . Hand delivered hors d'oeuvres . Music .
Mini spa treatments . Personal styling
Cocktails . Serious shopping

Experience the rooftop with a million dollar view
overlooking San Diego Harbor!

BOUTIQUES INCLUDE: Artisan Designs, Azzaria Boutique, Azzaria Denim Lounge, Beech, Hollywood Million Denim, House of Plum Red, Liz Larios Jewelry, Meltology, Moda Viajando, The M Collection Boutiques, Malaika Handbags, Melero Boutique + Gallery, Nicole Miller, Shop Moderne, Vocabulary and Wish Boutique.

Location: Breeza @ 1431 Pacific Highway San Diego, Ca 92101
- Free Valet Parking

RSVP REQUIRED to attend this event.
Send full name to mrobles@modernluxury.com l 619.849.6684.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Become a Fan on FACEBOOK
Follow Us on TWITTER
Stay Up-to-Date, get Boutiquing in YOUR INBOX

Copyright 2010 Boutiquing.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior written consent.

Matti D - A Wardrobe Wonderland

Del Mar, San Diego Boutique Pique
By: April Madigan @ Boutiquing

Set the Scene: This fantasy of a boutique feels like falling down the rabbit hole a la Alice in Wonderland. Discovering dreamy designer duds overflowing atop antique furniture lovely enough to warrant it's very own storefront and a fountain offering a nature inspired soundtrack, even Alice wouldn't be able to withstand a wonderful wander inside. Matti D lures you in to get lost in the luster of the clothes and serves serious style in a chic, unique, and luxurious setting.

Labels We Love: Twinkle, Cynthia Steffe, Sheri Bodell, Rebecca Taylor, Poleci, the hard to find and fierce fitting Meghan Fabulous, Genetic (seen here on Shakira), Dylan George, and Stitches Denim, Tylie Malibu and Gustto Bags, McGinnis leather jackets, Bonnie Strauss bib necklaces, and Penguin, Brown Label Denim, and Spindle and Canister Cashmere for the MEN! (This is a partial list - if you love designers you have to head in and see this place for yourself!)

Prepare to Pay:
CLOTHING - mens & womens $200 - $500
SHOES - $250
JEWELRY - $150-$250 - Don't miss Bonnie Strauss's handmade statement necklaces, $300 and up
HANDBAGS - $400
UNDER $80? Basic tees and tanks, but this is certainly a place to splurge!

Sale Sightings: 2 large sale racks out front over flowing with designer tops & dresses marked 75% OFF.

Summed Up in a Sentence: With divine designers, complete customer service (we witnessed a regular customer being thrown an impromptu Birthday Party...complete with cake!), and one of the most whimsical wonderland like decor's around, popping into Matti D should be high on every boutique lover's bucket list.

Matti D
2689 Via de la Valle, Suite #F
Del Mar Ca 92014
Phone: 858-523-0693

www.matti-d.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Become a Fan on FACEBOOK
Follow Us on TWITTER
Stay Up-to-Date, get Boutiquing in YOUR INBOX

Copyright 2010 Boutiquing.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior written consent.

Nicole Miller - Stunning, Sultry, Sexy Satisfaction

La Jolla, San Diego
Boutique Pique
By: Erin Hall @ Boutiquing

Truth be told I felt a bit guilty as April and I were boutiquing in La Jolla and I sheepishly asked "Can we stop in Nicole Miller real quick??" I know, I know, how could I shop a "corporate retail giant" (insert *gasp!*) when I'm supposed to be boutiquing. I'll tell you why, Nicole Miller is one of the top names on my list of mating calls and the thought of an entire store dedicated to the world's best fitting dresses perfectly designed for accentuating and enhancing a woman's curves had my mind whirling with wonder. (If you're not familiar with Nicole Miller, think Kim Kardashian, Beyonce, Jessica Simpson and all things curvaceous couture) After April obiliged my request we stealth-fully crossed the street and quickly slid in the door of Nicole Miller before any dedicated Boutiquing fans saw us ;) Delicious derrière designed dresses dazzled in bright gem stone hues, point perfect pencil skirts with rooshing in all the right spots and a foot fetish flock of sandals, platforms and sexy strappy heels sat waiting for us to swoon with sweet delight.

After drooling, petting and sighing with affection through the racks of stoic and sizzling hot selections, we found a counter full of jewelry. I didn't know Nicole Miller made jewelry?! The boutiquing euphoria overflowed as owner Stephanie explained that not all Nicole Miller stores are corporate, including her own which is an independently owned boutique. As long as the boutique is filled with a majority of Nicole Miller signature pieces, this boutique can carry other designers AND my personal favorite, be listed on Boutiquing.com!!!

Even higher on my list of mating calls than Nicole Miller is Customer Service. Although it seems to be a lost art and hard to come by these days, I have to say Stephanie at Nicole Miller deserves the queen crown for the category. A great shop girl knows, no matter how many times a customer has gone through the racks, she will always miss something and often times what looks horrible on a hanger, looks beautiful on the body. Shop girls...we WANT you to help us! Stephanie was warm, informative and she accurately suggested pieces that got April and I in the fitting room, is was shockingly refreshing to be serviced at such a superb level.

Nicole Miller La Jolla is a haven for heavenly jewelry lines including chic Hollywood favorite Sophia & Chloe. Inspired by the women in her Moroccan family, designer Nathalie Sherman has carried on the tradition of adorning each other with jewelry to mark special occasions in life with her luscious line of earrings, necklaces and bangle bracelets, each with a unique meaning (read more of the story HERE). Find classy crystal chandeliers infused with the color and texture from Moushart and gorgeous gold wire wrapped stone rings, chunky cocktail rings and must have chain necklaces from designer Double Happiness, both local San Diego designers.

Speaking of events, did you know Nicole Miller makes wedding dresses?! I didn't, but now I DO! Stunning, sweet, sexy and sultry, with so many styles your sure to capture the feeling of your dream day with absolute elegance. Nicole Miller La Jolla carries PRVCY jeans, a denim fave of Lauren Conrad, J. Lo, Jessica Alba and Miley Cyrus just to name a few. In addition to a great fit PRVCY donates 10% of their sales to various Breast Cancer Organizations year round, who doesn't like knowing their shopping dollars are supporting a great cause.

Nicole Miller
1275 Prospect St
La Jolla, CA 92037
858.454.3434

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Become a Fan on FACEBOOK
Follow Us on TWITTER
Stay Up-to-Date, get Boutiquing in YOUR INBOX

Copyright 2009 Boutiquing.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior written consent.

LF Store - Fashion's Pulse is Always Pumping

La Jolla, San Diego Boutique Pique
By: Erin Hall @ Boutiquing

Pleasantly surprised, I was pulled off the street and into LF Store on the shop laden street of Girard in La Jolla. My first comment..."Is your buyer new?!" The answer, "No". I was shocked to see an entire boutique transformed into a poster perfect reflection of fashion NOW. Stunning military jackets, studded stilettos, stone washed skinnies, suede ankle boots, slinky over-sized sweaters and sequined mini skirts stocked from floor to ceiling and then some. LF Store, you've hit the nail on the head...literally, every where you look something has a stud somewhere. Now I know in a year these tantalizing styles I've mention will not be as cool (I can hear it now, "Military jackets, that's so Fall 09!")...but this is where the fascination with LF lies: The current of pulse of fashion is always pumping loud and strong! I'm quite confident the gifted eye that created this beautiful chaos will continue to deliver a spot on solutions for each season's must have pieces, head to toe.

If you have a bit of boutiquing A.D.D. like me (you easily get distracted by shiny objects, ornate embellishments and luxe fabrics) be forewarned that you'll be doing a lot of spinning in circles, re-circling and audible affections like "Look at THIS!" to those in your boutiquing brigade. Trays and stands of bold and delicate necklaces, chunky and quirky rings, scarves, beanies, fedoras and rocker fab earrings scream show stopper. Comprised mainly of private label LF clothing, this boutique prides itself on scouring the world for cutting edge style and consistent fashion reinvention. Perfect for dresses, leggings, denim and skirts, the selection of shoes at LF make me think SOLD! Find two of my favorite foot fetish brands Matiko and Jeffrey Campbell, mixing trendy, sexy and vintage in one "sole" package.

On the higher end of prices, LF Store delivers a solid selection of wardrobe staples if being at the forefront of fashion is your focus. For those of you who get discouraged by higher prices, stay close to LF's Facebook pages where they frequently advertise huge sales. If your looking for inspiration and trendy targeted looks, stop in regularly to jump start your seasonal fashion migrations, guaranteed you'll be rockin' it first.

LF Stores
7864 Girard Avenue
La Jolla, CA 92037
858.866.4220

www.lfstores.com

JOIN: LF La Jolla Facebook Page

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Become a Fan on FACEBOOK
Follow Us on TWITTER
Stay Up-to-Date, get Boutiquing in YOUR INBOX

Copyright 2009 Boutiquing.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior written consent.

Miss Trendy - A Discovery of Delightful Designers

La Jolla, San Diego Boutique Pique
By: April Madigan @ Boutiquing

Checking out the boutquing bounty of the luxurious land of La Jolla has been high on my to do list for a while now, so when the perfect day presented itself I jumped at the chance. The scenic drive and comfortably beachy scene in La Jolla were the first of many pleasant surprises in store. A few trips around the block in search of a parking spot and I found myself parked in the doorway of my first boutiquing victim. Situated on the main ocean view drag of La Jolla's Downtown, a few doors down from the famous Georges at the Cove Restaurant in the pink building, Miss Trendy presented a boutiquing experience I am going to have to work very hard to top.

Wide open front doors welcomed me into a stunning selection of watercolor hued wonders. A pink velvet love seat complete with marabou trimmed pillows has the best view in La Jolla, and trust me, it isn't the ocean. I have been few places where I have seen more beautiful prints, colors and bright and shiny accessories to add a much needed pop of color to a wardrobe. Basics abound for easy outfit making, and the attention paid to keeping interesting designers and high quality pieces makes it easy to make invest in an outfit.

Hey, guess what, I love customer service. Plain and simple. Say hello, ask me how I am, show me the fabulous new dress you just unpacked from your latest shipment...I am putty in your hands. Guess Miss Trendy is all about customer service too, because this is exactly what happened during my visit...and owner Dawn, even took it a step further, telling me the entire store was 40% off. WHAT! I think my boutiquing karma points were all cashed in at once - and I am thrilled.

I filled my arms with silk and satin dresses from Alice & Trixie and Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent, jeans by Denim of Virtue and Joes, a Mike & Chris windbreaker, linen pants and strapless silk dresses by Wendy Katlen, sexy studded dresses by HERA (designed by Mia Kim, who hails from the design studio of Herve Leger and BCBG Max Azria), vintagey looking pieces from by Francine, and sheer embellished blouses by Joolay. Everywhere I looked were styles and designers I had never seen before, and I really would have worn everything in the store. Each look I put on was a potential new closet favorite and with Dawn's superior knowledge of the fit and style of every piece it was easy to find plenty of pieces I "needed". I discovered leather, chain, and geode accessories, interesting enough to make an outfit and add even more style to a layered look. All of you "A's" (find out your letter in our style quiz HERE) need to make a trip to Miss Trendy, and take your good friend who is a "C", there will be plenty of color, sass, and style for you both.

Miss Trendy
1298 Prospect Street

La Jolla, CA 92037

858.456.2621

Hours:

Mon. - Sat.

11 - 6

Sunday

12 - 6

FACEBOOK PAGE

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Become a Fan on FACEBOOK
Follow Us on TWITTER
Stay Up-to-Date, get Boutiquing in YOUR INBOX

Copyright 2009 Boutiquing.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior written consent.

Sundancer - Beaming with Fashion Finds

Del Mar, San Diego Boutique Pique
by: Erin Hall @ Boutiquing

Like their name implies, Sundancer boutique in adorable downtown Del Mar, is bright and beaming with fresh fashion finds. Although this rectangular boutique isn't a lot of frills it IS home to an impeccable selection of top labels and designers. As would be expected of a tourist town boutique, Sundancer is clearly experienced in catering to a wide range of styles, everything from comfortable Michael Stars to blinged out Bejeweled. I was happy to find a refreshing mix of SKY tops and dresses in bright colors and styles outside the flashy flashy box and more on the girlie and glowing side (a bit of variety is always admired by an avid boutiquer).

For those who love casual chic with a little funk see their abundant selection of Da-Nang capris and roomy cotton pants or their fleur de lis and cross crystal studded Twisted Heart sweat suits. Tiered tanks and gauzy tops by Baily 44, patterned, floral and silk Hale Bob and boho sass from JWLA create a rainbow of options to pair with comfy linen or denim digs. Sundancer carries tanks, tubes and under shirts galore, including Beyonce's favorite body slimming cami's from Yummie Tummie (boutiquing wisdom: they fit snug, so remember to step INTO them vs. pulling over your head ;)

A surprise to no one, now that you all know I'm an accelerated "A" on the style scale (take the quiz here to see what style letter your are), I couldn't stop commenting on the absolutely gorgeous necklaces, earrings and bracelets Sundancer had perfectly perched on the counter. Bold cobalt blue and sheer topaz gem chandeliers, metallic gold and amber stone hoops and dainty cluster drop necklaces with a vibrant Indian vibe had me starring into the glass repeatedly. If you're looking for delicate yet dazzling, do stop into Sundancer for truly radiant jewelry.

Don't forget to work your way to the back of this boutique, Sundancer has a secret alcove dedicated to two full racks of stunning one up sale items. April scored a perfectly cut jean jacket that she wore today with a patterned top and pencil skirt, just one of the many looks the jacket will compliment...know what that means?? Money well spent!

Sundancer
1418 Camino Del Mar
Del Mar, CA 92014
858.259.4722

Copyright 2009 Boutiquing.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior written consent

ANNMARIE BOUTIQUE - Brilliance and Beachy Chic Collide

New Del Mar Boutique Pique
by: Erin @ Boutiquing

Nothing is more exciting than finding a new boutique off the beaten path. Like pirates hunting for buried gold in uncharted waters, often boutiquing motivates us to turn down random streets in search of the unknown. I'm so glad we are risk takers ;) Annmarie Boutique in Del Mar was the "hidden treasure" of our weekend journey. This boutique made the entire day of sweat and tears worth it (it was insanely hot and we almost cried at the lack of boutiquing options ....Finally Redemption!). Annmaries is where brilliance and beachy chic collide, with it's rich espresso wood, vibrant color palette, flirting clothing and glass jewelry cases full of stunning and unique hand made jewelry. Boutique owner, Annmarie D'Ercole couldn't be any sweeter or more likeable! She has the perfect demeanor for a beach city boutique, easy going, knowledgeable and dedicated to delivering a creative and comfortable atmosphere people go home talking about.

Annmarie Boutique is as memorable inside as it is outside, their store front view is a postcard perfect shot of the Del Mar beach horizon. Everything from casual to call me tomorrow, you'll find bright blasts of gem colored "LBD's" (formerly the "Little BLACK Dress"...now coined the "Little BOLD Dress" for 2009's bold colors) Rich hues and inexpensive prices from Poppy Garden and MM Couture, ruffled v-neck mini's from Theme, structured and flirty cocktail dresses from NU and always timeless styles expected from Laundry by Shelli Segal.

Although small and quaint, Annmaries is surprisingly saturated with options. There is a covered back deck dedicated to numerous rolling racks of sale merchandise and a back corner plump and perfectly poised for ordering premium denim like Hudson, J Brand, Rich & Skinny and Joe's. Being the savvy boutique owner she is, Annmarie has created a ceiling high display case next to the denim, fill with consignment designer handbags. Gently used but still knockouts, find covet worthy Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs and Chanel handbags at discounted prices. They also carry an impressive selection of edgy Tylie Malibu satchel, tote and hobo bags.

Most notable is Annmarie's personal jewelry line "D'Ercole". Dusted in and around the boutique and displayed on mocha suede stands over scattered river rocks, this line is clearly created with finesse and love for a truly prestigious feel. See delicate hammered gold tear drop earrings, rose gold and crystal band rings and white sapphire fleur de lis and emblem layered charms neckalces. If you value craftsmanship and originality, be careful, you might drool all over the glass.

Oh, and as every good beach city boutique should have... Annmaries has your eyes covered with a tower of totally trendy AND totally inexpensive sunglasses ($12! each...perfect in case of an emergency ;)

Annmarie D'Ercole
207 15th Street
Suite B
Del Mar, CA 92014
858.792.6953
www.shopannmarie.com

After shopping Annmaries, make sure and cross the street to see the equally adorable and friendly "La D'Ercole", their Fine Gifts and Accessories Boutique, for decorative candles, luscious lotions, super cute and super soft baby clothing, trinkets and more.

La D'Ercole
Fine Gifts & Accessories
202 15th Street
Suite A
Del Mar, CA 92014
858.259.6500
www.ladercole.com

THE SOUTHERN CROSS - Pretty New Room with a View

Del Mar, San Diego Boutique Pique

By: April Madigan @ Boutiquing

*THIS BOUTIQUE CLOSED 12/09

A recent trip beyond the borders of the OC landed Erin and I in the lap of undiscovered boutiquing luxury. Our fortunate first stop was the fresh and fantastic boutique, The Southern Cross. Located atop a high end shopping center (Del Mar Plaza) with a priceless view of the ocean, I was delighted to see the space so perfectly turned out in beach cottage meets chandelier chic. Crossing over the vibrant entry lined with the most original outdoor rugs, I was intrigued by the mix of sophisticated ethnic inspired looks and embellished casual wear from Live with Love and one of my new favorites eco-ganik. A clever selection of baby and kiddo clothing tied perfectly into the sandcastle whimsy of this breezy boutique. Photographs by Jessica Davis, a creative local photographer, framed in rustic whitewashed boardwalk frames pop under the soft glow of vintage boudoir light fixtures.

A wrought iron crib filled with baby booties and super comfy play clothes cried out to me and the sight of my number one gift for a new mom - a Market Sling by Serena and Lily had me raving to anyone who could hear. Seriously, if you haven't seen these gorgeous slings you need to, it is the one item that makes me want another baby, just to own this beautiful baby sling...and word on the street is that The Southern Cross will soon be carrying Serena & Lily bedding - worth a trip here to see it.

I couldn't stop staring at the exquisite selection of Yoana Baraschi pieces on display. I tried on a Grecian inspired dress silk dress that had one of the best feeling fits ever. This line offers up perfect feminine statement dresses that do not sacrifice comfort. Alongside the lovely clothes are kitschy aprons and shabby chic style vintage furniture that suit the seaside style of this spot perfectly. As I stood and admired a rod iron bed I caught myself gazing out the window and enjoying the breathtaking view of the ocean over the lavish L'Auberge resort across the way. For a boutique that has been open a few short weeks, it is evident owners Peggy and Tara have done their job in finding perfectly suited pieces that resonate with the equal parts local and tourist clientele stopping by this boutique. The two are hosting a Grand Opening Party July 31st complete with wine and appetizers...if you enjoy the Laguna Beach Rooftop experience, The Southern Cross is the boutiquing equivalent, and you will leave with more than just a morning after hangover:P

A bit of boutiquing wisdom: Park in the structure behind the plaza, all of the stores and restaurants validate and you get 2 hours free parking with validation, otherwise there is ample street parking for 90 minutes, but strict meter watchers are everywhere!

The Southern Cross

1555 Camino Del Mar #205

Del Mar, CA

858.259.0088

Copyright 2009 Boutiquing.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior written consent.

Boutique Local

By: April Madigan @ Boutiquing

I often daydream about my great boutiquing adventures...the small streets of Venice (all I have to say is....LEATHER), traversing NYC in search of that dress I saw in the magazine, the winding adobe lined streets of New Mexico, where I found my favorite, last for a lifetime, AMAZING belt...and a Halloween costume for my daughter – why not? In all of these experiences I reveled in feeling like one of the locals, chatting with shop owners, admiring their culture, and soaking it all in.

I am pretty sure very few of us are in a position to gallivant around Italy this year...and if we are, there will probably be no shopping, but I am comforted to know that I can continue having these experiences right here. Boutiquing in Laguna Beach, while comfortingly familiar, still takes on a vacation with the best of them feel – especially right now – gorgeous weather AND ample parking – nice! I also plan to head to previously undiscovered boutiquing destinations. I am excited to take in the beach scenes and relax while boutiquing for a day in Huntington Beach...sounds like an escape to me. Now is the time to rediscover the hidden gems we are surrounded by...and an added benefit...you get to come back anytime you want...no zip lock bag toting through security required!

Why Boutique Now?

By: April Madigan @ Boutiquing™

Everywhere we look, retailers are cutting jobs, reducing store hours, and closing multiple locations, if not closing completely. If this is what the "big guys" are facing, imagine what your favorite local boutique is up against. We have a real opportunity to make every dollar spent count right now. If there were ever a time to rally behind our local businesses, the time is now.

One look at the Orange County Register's OC Retail blog, and it is clear that many shopping options will be no more by the end of the year - or sooner.

Yikes. Target is great and all, but please let's hope there are other shopping options this time next year. So, buy that gift card for your coworker at her favorite boutique. It kills two birds with one stone! If boutique shopping makes you think of snobby shop girls and pricey price tags - fear not. A new and long overdue crop of customer service focused help has arrived at nearly every boutique around - and the prices are noticeably reduced across the board.

Don't forget to support and spread the word about your favorite little boutique - think of it as your own "local boutique stimulus plan" - and yes, you may quote that to your husband when justification is necessary.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Become a Fan on FACEBOOK

Follow Us on TWITTER
Stay Up-to-Date, get Boutiquing™ in YOUR INBOX

Copyright 2009 Boutiquing.com™. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior written consent.

Would You Pay More?

By: Erin Hall @ Boutiquing

Raised by a savvy, frugal, fashion loving mother, I was taught to shop by a motto…You can buy one thing for a hundred dollars or you can buy multiple things for a hundred dollars. Being a young girl who liked choices and variety, I would always hunt for discounts so I could buy more. Yes, I choose quantity over quality at least 98% of the time (with the exception of my first pair of acid washed Guess jeans). What I did not realize was a root ideology formed and flourished well into my late twenties. I believed, for the same amount of money, it was more righteous to buy multiple inexpensive pieces that one expensive piece.

So what did this mentality cost me? Money. Wasted money. How many times did I buy four $25 tops on sale that didn’t fit just right but I couldn’t pass up a good deal? What if I had used that same $100 to buy a perfectly cut top that made me salivate just looking at it? It is no nobler to buy clothing at a great discount than full price when all it does is give a hanger in your closet job security.

About two years ago I read a small editorial about American buying trends and my mentality changed. Through reputable data and polling it was concluded that a vast majority of shoppers justify spending when they see “Sale” or “Discount". Subconsciously, Americans are driven to buy for the fear of missing a great deal. Here is what stood out to me most and I have adopted as my personal shopping mantra: To ensure you are getting a deal, and not just buying to buy, ask yourself this simple question, “Would I pay more for this?” If your answer is YES, then you are getting a deal…if it’s No, then you are buying with the wrong motivation.


Shop wiser, not more limited is my 2009 ideology. Refrain when it is not the right piece and wait for the score, that's how great wearable wardrobes are created. Remember it comes down to personal value. Does it fit right? Can you wear it with multiple pieces? Is it unique or a one of a kind statement piece? In this economy spending strategically is very important and that includes fashion. Don’t just buy because something is on sale and don’t NOT buy because something is a little pricey. Buy with your needs and budget in mind and don't forget the question is directed at YOU personally. This is not your mom’s, your best friend or the sales associates opinion, but “would YOU pay more?”

I’ve walked away from huge mistakes and therefore had the money to later purchase some of my favorite pieces with this new mentality. I hope this helps navigate your next shopping experience and enhances your wardrobe selections.