When it comes to fashion, the only thing better than feeling awesome is finding a great piece for a good price. For me, bargain hunting is not just an expression, it’s a skillset. So, when I was asked to be a style judge for the upcoming Sealed in Style Gala for Easter Seals of Louisiana, the game was on.
Along with fellow style mavens, Juley (Upperlyne) and Tiffany (Flying Fox + Bats on Strings), we were sent on a mission to find an outfit for the event at The Shops at Canal Place. (I know, SUPER difficult, right?) Nevertheless, I was determined to get the most bang for my buck.
I am all about jacket game. Chic blazers, badass moto jackets, the perfect chambray, you name it, I covet. So, when I stopped into BCBGMAXAZRIA I made a bee-line for the clearance rack and saw this beauty. I always start at the sale items, because you never know what people have passed up before you. Also, being in New Orleans, our seasons are way off the retail schedule, so pieces from summer are getting discounted to make room for fall, while we’re still glistening in the heat. No worries. As far as basics go, just pay attention to the hues and fabrics. There’s usually something wonderful just waiting to be discovered that can totally be rocked all year round.
Such was the case with this delicious dusty pink blazer. Y’all, it was love at first sight. The linen is nice and light, perfect for our warmish Southern “fall” and “winter” (if that’s what you can call it). The color, although light, has muddy undertones that pair nicely with warm colors. AND it was half off. I was not mad at all.
I did splurge on this fantastic black pencil skirt, because I’d been on the hunt for the perfect one for quite some time. Lo and behold, I found her. Classic in structure, contemporary in the details and kind to my curves, this bandage skirt had to come home with me. Since adding this staple to my wardrobe, I’ve paired it with button-down blouses and my favorite v-neck t-shirts alike. An investment piece that I will get a lot of mileage out of for sure.
This is my totally normal way of drinking coffee. Promise.
Oh, and can we talk about these shoes real quick? Ok. Scored these nude suede Coach pumps with with faux matte alligator suede details and killer geometry (no pain with the right angles, ladies) for ONE PENNY. It’s true. They were brand new, I just happened to find them at a DSW close to a mall with high end shops– which is apparently key. (psst– it was the one in Houston by the Galleria!) They were marked down 75% off from their original price and by using a couple of coupons they had sent previously they rang up to $0.01. It’s my greatest shopping triumph yet.
My first visit to New Orleans, I saw a billboard for Mignon Faget‘s Hive collection and immediately fell in love. I’m a sucker for organic geometry, so getting to sparkle in the iconic collection inspired by beehives was straight out of my Crescent City fairy tale. I love the feel of a statement bracelet, so I opted to wear the Hive Wide Cuff and paired it with the Double Row Ring for a little extra bling. When it comes to jewelry, I like minimalism and consistency. Since I went with such a bold piece on my arm, I chose more demure pieces for the rest of the ensemble. The Hive Dangle Earrings and Hive Stations Chain Necklace suited perfectly. Last but not least, I fashioned the Hive Brooch into a barrette with a couple bobby pins.
I’m so looking forward to the Sealed in Style Gala on Saturday, November 1st 8pm -11pm at The Shops At Canal Place. All proceeds benefit Easter Seals Louisiana’s disability services, more on that here. Like I mentioned earlier, I’ll be judging the Style Contest, so come dressed to impress. One lucky attendee will receive a prize package worth $500 from The Shops At Canal Place! Mark your calendar and enjoy the open bar, dancing, food, silent auction, photo line and music. Tickets are on sale now!
Check out my Pinterest board for styles I would love to see. (Bonus points for bargain bragging rights!)
Special thanks to Mignon Faget Ltd and Ashley Bel Photography for the photos, and the The Shops at Canal Place for the shopping spree!
