Trend Alert: I’ve said this before, but more than ever I’m seeing small boutiques pop up offering stylish, trendy clothing at affordable prices. Here in town, there’s Sophie & Trey, 4th and Ocean, Tinka’s Closet, Francesca’s Collection and, of course, H&M, to name a few. Some online stores are also doing it: Lulus, ModCloth and even ASOSs offers a mix of affordable and designer.

I think these places are great for inexpensive trendy items. On the flip side, when cleaning out my closet, the items I buy at these stores are always the first to ... Read More »]]>

Trend Alert: I’ve said this before, but more than ever I’m seeing small boutiques pop up offering stylish, trendy clothing at affordable prices. Here in town, there’s Sophie & Trey, 4th and Ocean, Tinka’s Closet, Francesca’s Collection and, of course, H&M, to name a few. Some online stores are also doing it: Lulus, ModCloth and even ASOSs offers a mix of affordable and designer.

I think these places are great for inexpensive trendy items. On the flip side, when cleaning out my closet, the items I buy at these stores are always the first to go. Either the quality isn’t there, I don’t like the fit or I just don’t like it enough to keep it. That’s because I get carried away by the low prices and don’t go through my shing checklist. Download the FREE Shopping Checklist Here

Here are my tips for making sure you don’t get carried away by the prices:

1. Check Quality. This is super important at these stores. The reason the clothing is so affordable is because the fabrics are inexpensive, and the quality is sometimes less than awesome. Quality affects fit. And, a great fit is what will make these clothes look expensive when you’re wearing them. Particularly look for poorly sewn hems, uneven hems, loose threads at the seams, poor quality fabric and variations in size. This is the No. 1 reason why many of the dresses and tops I buy at these stores get put in the Salvation Army bag. I want my clothing to look expensive even if it’s not.

Magpie Styling Tip: I’ve had the best luck with blazers and jackets at these stores. They are usually well made and extremely stylish! My mother in law bought me a faux fur jacket last year that I can’t wait to wear this fall and winter.

2. Assess Trendiness. Want to try out sequin shorts? A leopard skirt? This is the place to do it. For less than $50, you can find super-trendy items that you’ll likely wear for a year or two, then be ready to give them up. Wouldn’t you rather spend $25 on something you wear twice than $100? Estimate your cost-per-wear to determine if it’s a good deal. Even at these affordable stores, spending $50 on a faux leather jacket that you wear only once is a waste of money.

3. Skip the Basics. Forget buying basics such as black pants, a white button down, wool pencil skirts and more at these stores. Your basics should be as high quality as you can afford so that they will last you for years to come. A $15 pair of black pants that fall apart after four wears isn’t worth it. If you can, invest the $60 to $100 in pants that will last forever.

4. Accessories Rule. A great scarf or statement necklace can make or break an outfit. If you want to freshen up your wardrobe at minimal cost, choose accessories. And, these affordable stores have cornered the market on on-trend, super cool jewelry. From belts to scarfs to handbags and jewelry, you can find great prices on really fab items. I turn to these stores when I want a purse in a color I know won’t last more than a season or feather earrings that will look too dated next year.

Tracey C. Velt is a professional writer and editor. Visit her personal style blog at http://magpiestyle.net.

But, if you want a wardrobe checklist suitable for my mother, check out the one at REAL SIMPLE magazine. I mean, seriously, who wears this stuff? I don’t see myself donning a cotton waffle robe. Wardrobe basic, uh, no. And, ... Read More »]]>

I can’t tell you the number of wardrobe checklists I’ve seen over the years and the truth is they’re just guidelines that can help you find your missing pieces, but they aren’t the end-all be-all. After all, a mom in Florida doesn’t need the same wardrobe basics as a career woman in Denver.

But, if you want a wardrobe checklist suitable for my mother, check out the one at REAL SIMPLE magazine. I mean, seriously, who wears this stuff? I don’t see myself donning a cotton waffle robe. Wardrobe basic, uh, no. And, it doesn’t get cold enough here to buy a winter coat (which I own only for traveling to colder climates), a black cashmere wrap coat AND a down vest. I also don’t consider chinos a staple, nor do I wear raincoats–call me irresponsible.

A good stylist will help you suss out your true needs based on the life you live. Don’t have the money for a stylist? Then, do it on your own. I know, I know, it takes some time but once you get into it, it’s fun, promise!

Ok, so what makes a good checklist? Take these steps:

Step 1: Take a good look at your closet. Make a list of the items you go-to all the time and divide it by casual, dressy and work. You don’t have to do it all at once. Do you work full time in an office and find those are the hardest outfits to get together? Then, do your work list first. Ask yourself: Do you tend to throw on dresses when you’re in a rush out the door? Or, are you a jeans gal? Do you avoid items you have to iron? Doing this will help you figure out your style whether you’re the girl who’s always overdressed or the one who lives in leggings. And, if you’re the girl who lives in leggings, it’s time to pump up the jam gurl.

Magpie’s go-to CASUAL list reads like this:

1. Jeans-bootcut Paige & Citizens, Tory Burch skinnies, J Crew dark ankle, skinny dark Genetic,  and J crew trousers.

2. Jackets-black blazer, DVF leather blazer, white Theory blazer.

3. Shorts-J Crew jean shorts (long & short), J Crew gingham shorts & DVF white linen shorts (this made me realize that I never reach for the shorts that need to be ironed, so I really need to pay attention to this when buying anything new.)

4. Tee Shirts-Grey, white and black Target Boyfriend tees, J Crew grey embellished tee & J Crew purple tee (this made me realize that I have a drawer full of embellished tees that I don’t wear as well as the fact that I don’t really wear colored tee shirts.)

5. Dresses-Black, eyelet dress. This is actually a missing piece in my closet. I have lots of dressy or work dresses but nothing casual. I can only think of one that I go to all the time.

6. Pants-Lucky Jeans olive cargos, Theory black pants (this made me realize I really am a jeans girl, I hardly wear any of my pants.)

7. Blouses-Alice & Olivia Leopard print, J Crew pink print, white button down, Alice & Olivia butterfly print blouse.

8. Shoes-(Spring/Summer) Steve Madden sandals in black or cognac, silver J Crew sandals, black flip flops, silver, black and nude J Crew espadrilles. (Fall/Winter) Frye tall boots, J Crew black and cognac ankle boots, Balenciaga flat tall boots.

9. Cardigans-J Crew black boyfriend, Banana Republic short white cardi, Ralph Lauren tan cardigan

Do any of these items on your go-to list need updating? If so, put them on your wish list.

Step 2: Write it down. Keep a notepad and pen handy and write down an item every time you think, “I wish I had..” Do you find yourself wishing you had a pair of black pants that you can wear with flats? Do you think life would be better with a white linen blazer? Why, yes, you say? Would your kids love you more if you had that perfect, casual denim skirt? I think they would.

Magpie’s Wish List

1. Denim or military vest to layer over long sleeve tees, dresses and button downs
2. Thin black skinny jeans (the ones I have are too stiff)
3. Some casual dresses, ones I can just throw and go and wear with flats.
4. Tall cognac/caramel-colored boots
5. A snakeskin accessory
6. More scarves
7. Grey leather jacket

Now you have your want list and your go-to list. That will help you formulate your personalized wardrobe checklist. What I suggest is taking a Wardrobe Checklist (click to download the PDF) like this one and cross off what you already own, then cross off what doesn’t apply to you. Now, take a look at what’s left. You may discover items on the list that weren’t on your wish list or your go-to list that you would find useful. If your wish list items aren’t on the list, add them.

Carry this handy list around with you to help you stay on track. Easy peasy, right?

Tracey C. Velt is a professional writer and editor. Visit her personal style blog at http://magpiestyle.net.

I frequently get asked what’s in and what’s out. In fact, I can’t tell you the number of times someone says, “No one told me [X item of clothing] is out now!” But, is it really? I’ve seen a sea change in fashion over the years in that nothing is ever “out” anymore.

Extreme fashion is always trendy, such as over-sized shoulder pads and overly detailed, costumey items. Colors may come and go, but if you stick to classic colors and simple styles, your wardrobe will stay timeless. Whenever I buy an expensive item, I ... Read More »]]>

I frequently get asked what’s in and what’s out. In fact, I can’t tell you the number of times someone says, “No one told me [X item of clothing] is out now!” But, is it really? I’ve seen a sea change in fashion over the years in that nothing is ever “out” anymore.

Extreme fashion is always trendy, such as over-sized shoulder pads and overly detailed, costumey items. Colors may come and go, but if you stick to classic colors and simple styles, your wardrobe will stay timeless. Whenever I buy an expensive item, I consider the timelessness of the item. I believe in investment pieces and am willing to spend more on high quality classic pieces that I know will be in my wardrobe for years to come.

A great example of classic style is Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. Can you believe it’s been 12 years since she and John Jr. passed away? But, check out pictures of her outfits, they can all be worn with ease today.

Click on each image to enlarge

So, what makes an item something you’ll hold on to for years to come? I’ll tell you!

1. Color: Stick to neutral or classic colors such as black, tan, caramel, brown, white, cream and red.

Magpie Styling Tip: The Cafe trousers from J Crew are a super example of a classic color. In a wool, they’d be perfect work pants. These are cotton. Many of these classics seem only appropriate for work but that’s not completely true. Look at Bessette-Kennedy, many of her outfits are casual.

2. Cut: If you’re truly going for classic staples that will last you for years to come, forget the exaggerated flares and super skinnies and opt for boot cut, trousers with a slight flare and straight cuts that hit just below the waist. High and low waists come and go but a standard fit is forever. For tops, go with straight lines and blouses that are slightly fitted. You can’t go wrong with a pencil or a-line skirt or a sheath, wrap or shirt dress.

Magpie Styling Tip: Just because an item is classic, such as a pencil skirt or wrap dress, doesn’t mean it looks good on you. Stick to the styles that fit  your figure and expand from there.

3. Fabric: Wools, jersey knits, cashmere and silk are all classic fabrics but quality is important. When buying a classic item, I always look for the highest quality fabrics I can afford. Here a great article on how to spot quality clothing. You don’t have to go designer to get quality. You can find excellent cuts and quality in clothing at stores like Ann Taylor and JCrew, which sell shoddy items as well. It’s up to you to pay attention.

Tracey C. Velt is a professional writer and editor. Visit her personal style blog at http://magpiestyle.net.

I have learned a few tricks along the way. Here are some ideas for snagging a great deal on clothing, shoes and accessories.

1. Know Your Size. For more details on this, I have a tutorial on finding an ebay fashion fit here. Since ... Read More »]]>

I LOVE eBay! I’ve been selling and buying since 1995, shortly after they first launched. In fact, I’ve gotten everything from Diane Von Furstenberg dresses and vintage brooches to Tory Burch leather pants and Oilily children’s clothing on eBay–at prices not even close to retail.

I have learned a few tricks along the way. Here are some ideas for snagging a great deal on clothing, shoes and accessories.

1. Know Your Size. For more details on this, I have a tutorial on finding an ebay fashion fit here. Since most eBay sellers don’t allow returns, it’s vital you know your size before you bid on an item. I’ve been known to go to Bloomingdales and try on several brands of jeans to determine what I like best. Then, I’ll write down the brand, style, size, wash and fit. I get online and search on eBay using those terms. Also, most stores such as J Crew and Banana Republic, have standard sizing. If you’re not positive, size up. Chances are you can have it altered if it’s a tad too big. You’ll be amazed at how many items “in the stores” are on eBay–even from places like Anthropologie and J Crew. Magpie Styling Tip: Know what looks good on you! Buying on eBay is not the time to try out a new or trendy style.

2. Set up a Search. eBay allows you to set up a favorites search using keywords. For example, I love the French brand Catimini for children. So, I search on “Catimini” and each day I get an email with thumbnail pictures of the newly listed items by that brand. It gives you a chance to snag a great item using “Buy It Now” before it gets bid up past what you’re willing to spend. You can do the same with favorite sellers. For example, there are a few moms on eBay who have a daughter a little older than mine. My daughter  is the perfect size for their outgrown clothing. I will get emails when these moms list new items.

3. Be Wary of Purse Sellers. Many purses on eBay are fake and it’s hard to tell from the listing. Some red flags: the seller is from Hong Kong or China, the seller has tons of the same purse up for sale and the seller has negative feedback that says something about fakes. If you’re willing to take a chance on an item, make sure you’re buying it from an individual buyer who just cleaned out her closet. Even a ton of positive feedback isn’t a guarantee. Many times buyers have no idea that the item they bought was counterfeit.

4. Check the feedback. So, you find a great designer jacket, the price is right and you’re waiting for just the right moment to bid on it. But, you notice that the seller has a 95% positive rating. Check it out, many times the negative feedback is from isolated incidents. But, if you see 2 or more feedback notations that say a buyer never received the item or that the item was not described accurately, beware!

5. Make that offer. Sometimes buyers will have a “Make an Offer” listed next to the sales price. Make the offer no matter how lowball! I just got a pair of designer boots for $80; the “Buy it Now” price was $350 and retail price was $1050! The worst that can happen is your offer is refused, but many times the seller will just send you a higher counteroffer that you can accept or deny.

6. Negotiate shipping. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve spotted something I wanted to buy then had to bail because shipping was too high. However, I’ve had success emailing the seller (BEFORE bidding) to see if he/she will lower the shipping cost.

7. Know the retail price. True story: Anthropologie had a pair of to-die-for boots that sold out on the website. I think they were around $250. On eBay, they were listed at $350–even after Anthro restocked them! That’s $100 more than retail and people were bidding on them. Of course, you can’t always check prices because most items are from several seasons ago. But, I tend to buy a lot of brand-name and designer stuff on eBay, so I do scour the retail sites to get an idea of price range of that particular brand.

8. Go for the good stuff. Honestly, eBay isn’t worth your time unless you’re interested in buying designer or high-end brand items. I mean, who wants to spend time surfing the web for Target or Old Navy clothing? I reserve eBay for splurge items that strike my fancy–things that I would likely never buy full price. For example, I may look for leather jackets, boots, winter coats, ski clothing, vintage jewelry, children’s high-end holiday clothing, designer shoes, Theory brand pants, DVF wrap dresses, Tory Burch flats, etc.

9. Resell it. For children’s clothing, you can’t beat eBay for resale value–as long as it’s a high-end brand in excellent condition. I’ve actually MADE money on preworn clothing from Oililly, Misha Lulu and Catimini. I tend to buy a few select pieces retail when they go on sale. My daugther wears them, then when she outgrows the item, I resell it. Obviously this works best on seldom-worn outfits, special occaision dresses or things that don’t wear out easily. I pay for my daughter’s wardrobe almost exclusively from the proceeds of her outgrown clothing.

10. Swoop in. To avoid driving up the price of an item, NEVER bid on it right away. Just save it to your wish list and mark down when the auction ends. Have a price in mind and if the item is still within reach 5 minutes before the auction ends, then wait until about 1 minute left and swoop in with your high bid. If you get outbid, it’s OK because you entered the MOST you were willing to spend. If the item went for more than that, it just wasn’t meant to be. And, you saved yourself from getting caught up in the moment and spending way too much.

As with anything good, it does take effort to find deals on eBay. You have to scour the site daily with very specific goals in mind. And, you have to be patient. I’m still searching (and have been for 10 years) for a Chanel tweed jacket. I haven’t seen one that costs less than $500 yet.

Tracey C. Velt is a freelance editor, writer and founder of the blog Magpie Style. Magpie Style offers busy women tips for accessible, everyday style that shines and features outfit inspiration, tips for finding your personal style, motivational pieces and ideas for accessorizing. Tracey’s personal style philosophy is to invest in high-quality classics and mix them with low-end deals to build outfits that work for your life.