Category: Uncategorized

The term “monochrome” is described as consisting of or displaying images in black and white or in varying tones of only one color. Now, this outfit consists of more than one color, but it is a very limited palette of tones. Various shades of black, gray, silver and gold meld together to form a cohesive, modern look.

This look started with an unexpected brand find. I discovered this dress by Hale Bob at the outlet in Reading and once again, it hung on a hanger in my blog closet until I brought the right look together and researched the brand for this post. According to their website: “Hale Bob is a Los Angeles based fashion brand founded by Daniel Bohbot. Featuring shoes, shirts and dresses in creative prints, bright colors, rich silks and luscious velvets; Hale Bob clothing and Hale Bob shoes offer women the chance to shine as brightly as the comet for which the brand is loosely named. Hale Bob is a California lifestyle brand, very distinctive and sophisticated.”

Their website is filled with beautiful patterns on tops, accessories, swimwear and flowing dresses. My simple outlet find retailed for about $238! And having a dress brand named after a comet, well, that is pretty cool.

An out-of-this-world dress definitely needs some equally impressive accessories. The pale gold leather blazer by Worthington (A J.C. Penney brand) was also picked up from the Goodwill outlet in Reading.

The pebbled leather black buckled boots by Franco Sarto are one of my new winter favorites. They are soft, comfortable, sturdy and stylish. They look equally good with tights and dresses as they do with skinny jeans or leggings. I loaded up on the necklaces, which were purchased for $3.97 each.

You never know what you are going to find at our local Goodwill. Outlet shopping may not always yield fashion treasures, but every once in a while you find some stellar pieces!

Sweater: $1.00 (Outlet)
Blazer: $1.00 (Outlet)
Short Necklace: $3.97
Long Necklace: $3.97
Boots: $6.97
Total: $16.91

Kirsten

About The Blogger
Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill stores to decorate her home and wardrobe. She is a stylist and volunteer for the fundraiser the Goodwill Runway Show, which is held every spring in Reading, PA.

This January, we’ve been enjoying warmer (yet rainier) winter weather here in Pennsylvania. Heavy, wool sweaters would be a bit much for this mild month so far. But, lighter-weight knits are perfect for the cool, but not cold temps.

This honeycomb-patterned black and cream sweater is from Banana Republic. It gets it soft feel from the cotton and cashmere blend. I picked up this sweater at the last 50% off day at the Shillington location. And HERE’S A TIP, don’t miss the 50% off sale day, which is this Wednesday, January 25th. Stores within Goodwill Keystone Area are having a 50% off sale, click here for details. To find stores that are participating (Goodwill in central and southeast PA), go to yourgoodwill.org/shop/stores-donation-centers/

OK, back to sweaters…I paired the sweater with black, jacquard, flat-front trousers. I found these new-with-the-tags at the Goodwill store in Phoenixville. They are from the Dana Buchman brand, which is sold at Kohl’s Department Stores. The subtle pattern in the fabric does not clash with the pattern in the sweater. I see these being very versatile and suitable for year-round wear.

The bamboo-handled purse from Ann Taylor Loft adds some vintage charm and carries my necessities. While suede pumps (these are from Ann Marino) are not a great choice for a typical January day, they are perfectly fine for the recent moderate weather. To inject some life into this simple color scheme, a vibrant fuchsia scarf adds plenty of pizazz for a gray winter day.

This sweater would also be great with jeans and boots for a casual look or with a black skirt for a more formal work outfit. Sweaters don’t always have to be heavy, wool creations. Try some in other natural fabrics such as cotton, silk or cashmere and be sure and shop this Wednesday at the Goodwill Winter Sale!

Sweater: $3.25 (purchased at 50% off day)
Pants: $9.00
Scarf: $2.00
Purse: $4.97
Shoes: $6.97
Total: $26.19

About The Blogger
Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill stores to decorate her home and wardrobe. She is a stylist and volunteer for the fundraiser the Goodwill Runway Show, which is held every spring in Reading, PA.

With the news last week that The Limited clothing stores were closing up shop after 50 years, I suddenly became nostalgic for brands of my youth (the mid to late 80s). My friends and I use to roam the mall and window shopped at The Limited, Gap and Express. I had a few coveted things from those stores (usually purchased from off the clearance rack) and the names still remind me of my teen years.

While I don’t really visit the mall anymore (why pay retail???), I still look for these brands when shopping at Goodwill Keystone Area stores. Those labels are easy to find and typically hold up well though washings and changing trends.

I’ve been waiting for the weather to turn cold to feature this distressed leather coat from Express. At $13, it was a splurge for me, but similar coats on the brand’s current website retail for approximately $248, so I think I did well. It’s heavy and warm and the distressed leather gives it a vintage look even though it is new. I also enjoy the double-breasted detail and gathering in the back.

I paired the coat with a gauzy, colorful striped scarf and aviators. The glasses were a surprising find at one of Goodwill’s outlet stores. After a good cleaning at home, I discovered they were true vintage Foster Grant sunglasses. With the aviators and classic leather jacket, I felt a little like I was channeling Tom Cruise in Top Gun.

If it’s going to be cold and you have to bundle up, you might as well look cool! Pick out a winter coat and accessories at Goodwill that make you happy and suit your budget. And if you feel like an 80s movie star, all the more better.

Jacket: $13.00
Scarf: $3.00
Sunglasses: $1.00 (approximate)

Total: $17.00

Kirsten

About The Blogger
Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill stores to decorate her home and wardrobe. She is a stylist and volunteer for the fundraiser the Goodwill Runway Show, which is held every spring in Reading, PA.

When the temperatures dip below freezing, wearing something soft and colorful can buoy your spirits. And wearing pretty, feminine florals is the perfect way to bring some spring into your step.

This modern floral sweater by Double H was the start of today’s outfit.
It’s different in that the design is printed on the fabric rather than woven into the sweater. I could have worn it with jeans and boots, but the denim skirt from L.L. Bean was just as comfortable and a little more work appropriate (if you need that kind of thing). Denim skirts are great because just like jeans, you can wear them with almost any kind of blouse, top or sweater. They can be dressed up and down.

I’m not usually don’t wear hats, but I decided to go out of my comfort zone and give it a try. And at only $3.00, it was a cute find. The yellow Nine West handbag came from one of the outlet locations and was a steal for just $1.00. The sunny yellow color reminded me of daffodils.

My favorite part of this outfit has got to be the boots! I found them when shopping with my sister and we always debate whether something is worth buying when it is more than we expected it to be. At only $9.97, it was more than I typically pay, but I knew they were worth more than that. Upon getting home and researching the brand – Matisse – I found they would have been about $120 when new, so I call that a great deal!

When the days are cold and dark, use your wardrobe to lift your spirits. Wear a floral pattern or a bright color until the days get longer and the Mother Nature brings forth her own flowers and greenery to the world.

Kirsten

Sweater: $4.75
Skirt: $6.50
Boots: $9.97
Purse: $1.00 (Outlet price)
Hat: $3.00

Total: $25.22

About The Blogger
Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill stores to decorate her home and wardrobe. She is a stylist and volunteer for the fundraiser the Goodwill Runway Show, which is held every spring in Reading, PA.

To kick off 2017 for the Goodwill Keystone Area blog, I pulled together a complete look from designer Calvin Klein. His designs are classic and the pieces you find at Goodwill now will stand the test of time.

Calvin was quoted in Women’s Wear Daily as saying “I’ve always had a clear design philosophy and point of view about being modern, sophisticated, sexy, clean and minimal. They all apply to my design aesthetic.” I believe this outfit is all of those things. (All pieces from Calvin Klein).

Today’s look started with this sweater dress in black, white and brown zig-zag stripes. Sweater dresses in the winter are cozy and comfortable. I added tights for a little more warmth against the January chill. The black, pleated and belted boots are stretchy and form fitting. The have a elongating, pointy toe and a stiletto heel, but are not too high to be uncomfortable for work.

The jacket is one of my new favorite pieces of outwear. It has a little more professional polish than a moto jacket, but still has an edgy vibe. It is crafted of butter-soft leather, has plenty of pockets and a button-up front. It has a belt that I chose to tie in the back (not shown). This jacket would have retailed new for several hundred dollars, so I didn’t mind spending $27.00 at Goodwill.

I’ve had the purse for years, but it is a classic Calvin Klein find. It was new with tags when I found it and retail was $249.00. I paid just $10.50!

This outfit would have cost over $500 when new, but I saved about 90% off and my total for this complete designer Calvin Klein look is only $52.97. No matter what brands you are looking for, you can find them at Goodwill for much less than the mall stores. Happy shopping in 2017!

Dress: $5.50
Jacket: $27.00
Boots: $9.97
Purse: $10.50

Total: $52.97

Kirsten

About The Blogger
Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill stores to decorate her home and wardrobe. She is a stylist and volunteer for the fundraiser the Goodwill Runway Show, which is held every spring in Reading, PA.

I’m always happy to hear that people read and enjoy my blog, but in this post I am excited to share that I was able to meet, style and have a photo shoot with one of my fans!

Through a friend, I met Melanie, a hairstylist with a unique look and sense of style. She is a huge fan of Goodwill and often posts about her own thrifted finds on social media. We both agreed a vintage retro look was the way to go for her.

We met for a morning of shopping at Goodwill in Shillington, PA. After several trips through the aisles, a cartful of finds, and multiple dressing room reveals, we had our winner.

Melanie’s impeccable makeup, purple pinup hair, tattoos and curvy attributes perfectly highlighted this layered retro look. We started with the sheer floral print tunic by Black Rainn. The colors in the tunic set the stage for the rest of the outfit. The cropped pants by Briggs added some warmth and coverage for a chilly winter day.

Adding pops of color were important so the mustard yellow cardigan by Mossimo, a Target brand, and the vibrant pink and rhinestone necklace brightened up the entire look.

Melanie usually wears flats, so these nude heels, which will go with anything, were a fun change for her. She informed me later (after researching the heels online) that the brand L.K Bennett London sells for up to $345. So needless to say, the $6.97 that we spent was an incredible bargain! Go Goodwill!

The ivory vintage metal mesh clutch and the Style & Co. black winter coat finished off her look. Together these pieces are a beautiful outfit, but they each can be used separately to enhance the rest of her wardrobe. The total for the whole outfit was just $35!

No matter what your style, budget or size, Goodwill Keystone Area stores are the perfect place to shop. Looking good does not have to cost a fortune and when you exude confidence and beauty, like Melanie, you feel good on the inside as well because you know you’re supporting a valuable organization like Goodwill.

Pants: $4.25
Coat: $5.25 (half off special)
Shoes: $6.97
Clutch: $2.49 (half off special)
Tunic: $5.50
Cardigan: $3.95
Necklace: $6.97

Total: $35.38

Kirsten

About The Blogger
Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill stores to decorate her home and wardrobe. She is a stylist and volunteer for the fundraiser the Goodwill Runway Show, which is held every spring in Reading, PA.

Besides stripes, plaid is one of my favorite wardrobe patterns and I love red plaid around the holidays. This look mom may scream “Suburban Mom”, but I’m ok with that, because I am one. The outfit is great for running last minute Christmas errands or maybe a casual holiday brunch with friends.

I started this look with this sophisticated Talbot’s red plaid ruffled blouse. It has a trim fit and I loved the details of the ruffles and onyx buttons. The blouse would be perfect for work under a blazer or with jeans for a more casual look.

The red quilted vest by Relativity added a great pop of color and on warmer fall days, it would be all I need as outerwear. The red adds a festive Christmas-y feel. I could add a white scarf and a jean jacket for more layers for cooler days closer to winter.

The knit black jeggings from Ann Taylor Loft are as comfortable as yoga pants, but much more flattering. They have enough stretch to keep their shape and the skinny fit tucks nicely into my boots. These boots from Nine West are made of buttery soft leather. And the wedge shape gives them height without being unsteady on skinny heels.

Goodwill offers plenty of ways to be festive and comfortable this holiday season. Try a classic look of a vest, boots and leggings. It’s a versatile outfit and the pieces can be used multiple ways in your wardrobe.

Blouse: $5.50
Vest: $1.00
Pants: $4.50
Boots: $19.97

Total: $30.97

Kirsten

About The Blogger
Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill stores to decorate her home and wardrobe. She is a stylist and volunteer for the fundraiser the Goodwill Runway Show, which is held every spring in Reading, PA.

In the past few years “ugly” or “festive” Christmas sweaters have become trendy for office contests or parties. Goodwill Keystone Area stores are the perfect location to shop for these fun and decorated sweaters. But, to get the best ones, you need to shop early!

The 80s and early 90s were the heyday for original and unique sweaters. I have a few of those vintage in my wardrobe, but lately companies are producing crazy new ones.

My sister found this beauty by Susan Bristol for me several weeks ago at Goodwill in Morgantown. It is festooned with multiple embroidered snowglobes depicting a variety of holiday scenes. It even has tiny little fish bones stitched with the cats! Many Goodwill stores keep their holiday items separate from the rest of the clothing so it is easy to search for some fun pieces to add to your holiday wardrobe!

I kept the rest of my outfit modern and casual. The boyfriend-style faded jeans are from the Who What Where collection from Target. They are simple yet comfortable and slouchy. My black patent wedge Mary Jane style shoes by Nine West are functional yet give me some height. I added my own red and silver ornament earrings to finish off this festive look.

Start planning your “ugly” or “festive” look now so you’re prepared to win your office contest or if you get invited to a party. Goodwills are your best bet when shopping for a unique look, no matter what time of year it is!

Sweater: $7.50
Jeans: $6.99
Shoes: $6.97

Total: $21.46

Kirsten

About The Blogger
Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill stores to decorate her home and wardrobe. She is a stylist and volunteer for the fundraiser the Goodwill Runway Show, which is held every spring in Reading, PA.

Thinking of Christmas, you obviously reach for traditional colors of red or green, gold and silver. For a more sophisticated choice, I selected this merlot colored knit dress for Catina. It was perfect for our photo shoot at a local winery.
The body-hugging knit accentuated her figure, but was flattering and comfortable. The side ruching at the waist and sleeves added interest and detail. The dress was accented with a gold zipper detail at the neckline, so several gold chains and a spikey gold bracelet were the perfect accessories.

For a modern edgy look we added black and metallic peep toe booties by Wild Rose. Like many of my pieces, I plan how I would style these in a different way. These would look great with rolled up skinny jeans and a black leather (or faux) leather jacket. Lastly, an elegant gold and black satin structured bag finished off her look. Being festive can be understated, and doesn’t have to always include glitter or sequins. The color of this dress gave a off a warm glow that embodies the holiday spirit. And for less than the cost of a bottle of wine, this outfit shows that Goodwill is a great place to shop for special occasion outfits.

Dress: $0.99
Necklace: $6.97
Shoes: $6.97
Bracelet: $0.98

Total: $15.91

Kirsten

About The Blogger
Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill stores to decorate her home and wardrobe. She is a stylist and volunteer for the fundraiser the Goodwill Runway Show, which is held every spring in Reading, PA.

Now’s the time of year for holiday party invitations to be arriving in your email or mail box. Be it your company Christmas party, an elegant dinner out with close friends or a neighborhood get-together, Goodwill Keystone Area stores are the perfect place to find a little sparkle and shine to dress up your wardrobe.

The December fashion magazines featured lots of sequins and glittering accessories and all those things can be found for much less than retail mall prices at your neighborhood Goodwill.

Meredith’s beautiful green, blue and gold sleeveless brocade dress looks expensive, but in reality it was originally from Target. The dress itself was so bright that it didn’t need a lot of jewelry. Since the dress had a vintage “Mad Men” kind of feel, I added simple gold bar earrings and few beaded bracelets.

The rhinestone-encrusted gold heels add plenty of glamour and she can dance the night away, while the gold clutch can hold her necessities.

To enrich the lushness of the dress’s fabric, I added a suede blazer from Ann Taylor Loft. In addition to keeping her warm, this versatile piece can be also worn with a casual outfit such as jeans and a t-shirt.

When the invitations arrive, don’t worry about spending a lot on a party outfit. Stop at your local Goodwill and pick out a little sparkle and shine!

Dress: $5.50
Clutch: $2.97
Shoes: $2.25
Earrings: $1.97
Bracelets: $1.97
Jacket: $10.00

Total: $24.66

Kirsten

About The Blogger
Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill stores to decorate her home and wardrobe. She is a stylist and volunteer for the fundraiser the Goodwill Runway Show, which is held every spring in Reading, PA.