How to get designer styles at bargain prices

By Amy Moore (guest blogger)

I used to shop for clothes and accessories almost exclusively at retail stores, but that all changed when I embarked on a health journey and lost 70 pounds. In the process, I went from plus-size clothing (1X, size 18-20) to a size 6, which meant that I had to replace both my work and casual wardrobe multiple times.

To save money, I started shopping at Goodwill and Salvation Army and found a few good deals on brands that I normally wear. But it wasn’t until I found some amazing resale shops that I finally embraced second-hand shopping. I still get to look stylish, and I enjoy the fact that I never know what I’m going to find!

Here are three local stores that I haunt frequently:

5 Tips for Adding Florals to Your Spring Look

By Abby and Elle

Floral prints are definitely hot this spring. The great news is that colors and patterns don’t much matter. (The Hippie in us is loving this trend — Flower Power all the way, baby!)

Unsure about how to incorporate florals into your wardrobe? Follow these tips for adding some fresh blooms to your summer look:

Fashion 9-1-1 — Ain’t Got a Thing to Wear

Dear Abby and Elle: This is embarrassing. I own mounds of clothing, but, come spring, I can’t find a thing to wear.  Nothing seems just right. The weather is either too warm or too cold for what I own. Help! — Fashion Goldilocks

Kicking back at the Wine Spot in Cleveland Hts.

Jennifer looking lovely in spring layers

Dear Fashion: Here we are in April, and I think it is the cruelest month, isn’t it? Wooly tights are just right for snowstorms, and linen capris are perfect ‘neath a hot summer sun, but what to wear now when the sun beats hot but the wind can still blow cold?

Layers, that’s what.

I put together this layered spring ensemble (left) the other night. Picked up the Ann Taylor Loft skirt for about $14 (love the colors!) and the lightweight corduroy coat (Banana Republic) for about the same price from From Me To You, a relatively new boutique/consignment shop in Mentor on Mentor Ave. near Rt. 306. (The boutique has a terrific selection of designer labels, and everything from suits and coats to hats and handbags. Solid selection of unique jewelry, too, and Rubin, the owner, is delightful. Be sure to pay her a visit!)

I wore a lightweight dark brown sweater over a pink lace tank to bring out the pink in the skirt and to add a touch of spring to the outfit. I wore my new brown belt from The Limited over the sweater and finished the look with dark brown boots. When I got too warm, I simply took off my coat.

Jennifer, the finest hair stylist this side of the Mississippi (right), looks and feels fabulous in light layers: taupe tank, white oxford and beige pullover sweater vest. The combo of lightweight materials ensures that she doesn’t get too hot or too cold, and the light colors are perfect for the season. She ties it all together with a beaded necklace in contrasting colors, a white chunky bracelet and beige shoes. She is fabulous!

And she’s on the right track with oxfords for spring because you can wear a tank or cami beneath them or a lightweight sweater over them — or both. Add a light-colored cotton skirt or leggings and you have the perfect outfit for fickle — and sometimes cruel — weather.

P.S.: Be sure to enter our blogger giveaway for tickets to Fashion Week Cleveland!

Splash of spring oxfords from J. Crew

Layers, layers, layers! from J. Crew