How To Look Expensive On A Budget

June 1, 2021 fashion, lifestyle

You want the look for less right? Well, honey I’m here to let you know, money can’t buy style and having a great wardrobe is possible. Designer clothes aren’t always stylish nor does it always make you look put together. You don’t have to spend hours online looking for designer dupes or waiting for sales on you favorite designers. Learn to incorporate some of my tips into your shopping routines to get the expensive look on a budget. Remember style isn’t about designer its about showing your uniqueness and personality.

Quality over quantity

I recently did a complete wardrobe over and realized I had way too many items that were fast fashion pieces. What do I mean by fast fashion? These are items that are trending at the moment but in 6-12 months I would not be able to wear them or better yet, after a few washes they would not hold up. So instead of purchasing so many trendy pieces I know focus on items that are quality material. One quality made dress is better than 5 cheap ones that only last 6 months.

After calculating the cost, yes these items still had tags attached. I could have purchased some blazers from Zara, dress pants, and more. The blazer I’m looking at is a wool blend, very chic and will be in my wardrobe for years to come. Instead, I’m packing up these items to donate because they are out of style and don’t fit my style aesthetic. Staple pieces over inexpensive trendy items.

Avoid spandex and synthetic blends

I love a good bodycon dress. Especially for date nights and vacations. However, if you want to look expensive try to loosen up the dresses and choose a better quality fabric. Silk and satin fabrics just scream luxury and won’t break the bank. You can dress them up or down depending on the shoe selection and adding layers like an overcoat or blazer will further dress up the look. Also be sure that whatever material you choose flatters your body type. Again, not too tight and not too loose that you can’t see your figure.

Tailor your wardrobe

One of my top recommendations for being bougie on a budget. Tailoring your wardrobe is by far the best ways to look expensive on a budget. A well tailored pair of pants does wonders to any outfit. I myself have to get my pants tailored due to length and waist measurements. Thus, I need to size up and have the waist taken in. Tailoring your pieces is like applying a fitted blanket to your bed. It just lays beautifully. The perfect fit and looks stunning.

It’s not as expensive as you may think. Honestly, think about the amount of pants you currently own that you don’t wear because they don’t they don’t fit properly. Add up the cost of each pair. Now do you see what I mean? I usually spend an additional $7- $15 per pair and I wear them for years. Totally worth the investment.

Change your wardrobe colors. Nudes, gem tone color. Rich with pigments.

I will be the first to admit I am a sucker for black. I mean I wear it to work each day at the salon and it has been a part of my wardrobe for years. But in order to look expensive I have learned to add nude jewel toned pieces to chic up the look. My favorites have been adding fuschia, emerald, and my favorite tone, nude. Depending on your skin tone, nude colors will vary and this is why I love nude so much.

Let’s imagine for a second, you took those favorite pair of tailored dress pants, added a flowy fuchsia top and paired it with your favorite dress pants. OMG. I can see this look costing you less than $100 minus the accessories and shoes. Add a cute belt and it’s a look.

Add texture. Wool, Silk,

Adding different fabrics to your wardrobe also makes your pieces look expensive. You will be surprised what you can find when shopping during the off season. For example. Shopping for fall and winter items in the spring. When stores are trying to move the previous season’s items is when I score the best prices. So those items you want are now 60% – 70% percent off.

Eliminate cottons and think silk, linen, chiffon, lace, and satin. Fabrics that move with the body.

Don’t over accessorize

Ladies, less is more. You will often see me wearing multiple bracelets however, three is my limit and I won’t add any additional statement pieces. I want the eye to look at specific elements of my outfit. Not all over because the look is too busy. Less is more. Find a statement piece and keep the other items to a minimum. Remember this is only if you’re trying to look expensive on a budget.

My personal rule of thumb, if wearing a statement necklace or pendant, keep the earrings small. Think pearls or diamond studs.

These are some of the many ways to look expensive on a budget. Listen, I love my designer brands as much as the next girl. But if I can save a few bucks by implementing the things I shared with you above then I’m a happy camper. Most of the money in my wardrobe is spent on accessories. My handbags and shoes cost the most because I wear them more often.

Learn how I save up for the pieces HERE.

Learn How To Save Money And Afford Luxury Handbags

May 20, 2021 fashion, lifestyle

I have been in the process of revamping my entire wardrobe. In doing so I decided to invest in quality pieces that are timeless and can be used throughout the year. Also, I decided to invest in quality accessories including luxury handbags for my collection. So my focus for this year has been luxury brands that are timeless, with great quality and pieces I am able to pass down to my daughters. I want to share with you how I am able to save up money in order to afford luxury handbags.

One of the things I want to share with you today is how I save money in order to be able to afford these luxury items I have been adding to my collection. I do not want you to feel that you are not able to afford luxury brands that you see all over your social media or during those weekend trips to the mall. Black girls can have a luxury as well. If you think it’s not in your budget.

By no means do I think you have to own designer pieces. Style is subject and if you style a $10 handbag you can also style a $1000 bag. But by no means am I implying you have to have luxury brands in your closet. This is just my personal preference.

I have been purchasing luxury bags for quite some time and I have gone about this in many different ways. Many ways include, purchased consignment, directly from the stores, and I have also used layaway options in order to afford the luxury items that I love. Each time I set a budget for each piece and planned accordingly.

For example, My first Chanel bag I wanted to purchase directly from the store, which I did. You know, have the Chanel experience. It was fabulous. White glove service, champagne, you name it. However, I felt so guilty spending that amount of money that I returned it and found the same bag(in the jumbo size) for much less and amazing quality. I have an entire Youtube video unboxing that bag HERE. That’s when I knew preloved bags were for me.

Let’s discuss my top five ways I have been able to afford designer brands on a budget.

I stopped eating out. This included coffee and purchasing lunch. Brown bag me please. You may think that $2 coffee won’t be missed each day but let’s do some simple math.

If you order a basic coffee at $2 a day, 4 times a week that will equal $416. That’s the amount of a small Chanel card holder or preloved wallet. Now imagine if you cut out ordering lunch and coffee each day.

Currently, a salad from most retailers here in New Jersey range from $9-$11 dollars with tax. $8 per day, 5x’s per week. That’s $2,080 just from bringing your own lunch to work. See how small changes can yield a big reward.

Reselling my old clothes and shoes. I use sites like Poshmark to resell my items. You will be surprised at the amount of money you have sitting around in your closet. Those jeans that don’t fit anymore. Or if you’re like me, those items you got in a smaller size for when you lose weight. Time to go. This week alone I came across two items with the tags still attached.
I saved my tip money from work and never counted it. As a hairstylist, I’m blessed to have clients who also pay me gratuities after receiving their hair services. I just save the additional funds and compound on them over time. Again, that extra $5-$10 bucks adds up quickly.
I purchased pre-loved items. This by far has been the best way I have been able to afford designer items. The key is being patient, and being ok with a few imperfections. Remember, it will be preloved which means it won’t always be perfect. Knowing this beforehand and being able to access the quality of the items beforehand will be essential. I have an older post HERE, showing you how I saved over $1500 by buying preloved handbags.

One of my favorite sites even offers a layaway payment plan. And they discount items all the time. I’ll leave my favorite reseller below.

Lastly, I ask for cash on major holidays. Christmas, birthdays, anything special. Everyone knows I love cash and gift cards lol. I saved my Christmas money for 2 years straight to afford one of my purchases.

I also want to share that selling the bags I no longer wear has been another way to get the newest bags I wanted. It’s almost like exchanging for a new bag. However, there have been a few times I made more money than I spent on the bag. This happens when I resell my Louis Vuitton and Chanel items. Everything else is typically a trade in. I sell my items and use that money to fund my newest purchase.

For the past two years I’ve created a separate savings account that I use for these types of purchases. I don’t own a debit card for this account and if I want to withdraw from the account I have to go into the bank. This has helped me not touch these funds and helps manage my money efficiently. I’m one of those people who will find other uses for the money and never treat myself to anything. Not anymore.

I work hard, and deserve nice things. Period.

I had to repeat this to myself time and time again. Now that I believe it I’m able to splurge on the things I love. Without an ounce of regret or guilt.

Here is the website I use the most to purchase preloved designer handbags. They also have a layaway plan, just FYI. Don’t say I never shared my secrets lol. HERE

Become A Better You In 30 Days

May 10, 2021 lifestyle

I am a woman who’s willing to try something at least once. I mean, if you don’t like the end result you can just move on to the next thing right? Well, that’s my perspective anyway. I truly don’t believe in restrictions of any kind. As soon as I feel like I’m being boxed in or my creativity is being minimized I instantly pivot. I’ve been this way all my life and not having an idea as to why I struggled so much with being consistent. Then I realized, it was my time to pivot. It was time to become a better version of myself.

Honestly, doing the same thing day in and day out seems so boring to me. I need to live an abstract, colorful life. Does this also sound like you? Each day should be filled with new challenges and ways to push past your potential. This is why I live the “Girl Yes” lifestyle each day. I’m always looking for ways to level up my life and become greater. My personal goal is to present the best version of myself each and everyday.

Being ambitious requires a level of openness. You have to be moldable and teachable. Being open to learning new things and growing mentally is a skill we should focus on mastering. Wanting something you never had before will require you to do things you’ve never done before.

Now the question is, Are you ready for a new life?

Being willing to challenge your skills and perspective are ideal to saying ‘Yes” to the life you want to lead. Now let me share with you HOW you can start today.

Girl Yes Challenge Accepted

I challenge you. Yes you!

I want you to write 3 things you want to accomplish over the next 30 days. This can be anything from starting a daily journey, drinking more water, or even start working on that business plan you’ve had sitting on. The next 30 days are about to change your life! This is ONLY if you’re serious about reaching your goals.

It’s not going to be enough for you just to write out the three objectives. We now need to create a game plan. Luckily for you, I’ve already done most of the work for you. I’ve mapped out your next 30 days, all you have to do is follow the game plan.

HOW WILL YOU EXECUTE?

This is where being “bold” in your methods will come into play. You will have to get serious at this point.

If you really want to change your life you have to cut out the distractions and eliminate anything that will take your focus away from your top 3 goals.

What does that REALLY mean?

This means:

No more endless hours on social media scrolling at the same pictures and post.
Wasting money on items you don’t need.
Partying with friends every weekend.
No more being lazy.

If you can work 8-12 hours a day for someone else you can dedicate 2-3 to your own goals.

Please don’t tell me or yourself that you can’t find the time. Because if you have watched television this week, watched a movie, or went out to dinner then you have the time. How badly do you really want success?

This is the secret!!!!

Being able to silence the noise around you to key. I have become a master of this. Once I set my mind to something there is nothing that stands in my way. I truly mean nothing. But it took years to train my mind to do so. I’ve identified the three attributes needed to change your lifestyle in 30 days and now I’m sharing it with you.

No Excuse

Where there is a will there’s a way. This statement remains true because if you want something bad enough you will stop at nothing to get it. So why don’t we apply this level of thinking to our personal goals? We do it at work, with the kids, with our relationships, and other areas of our lives. But once it comes to our personal development we become stagnant. You can either find a way or find an excuse. The choice is yours.

No more excuses. It’s time to say “Girl Yes”.

Take Action

I’ve made it easy by outlining your next 30 days. It’s a simple way to take daily action towards working on your daily goals as well as affirming that you are capable of greatness. All you will have to do is follow the Girl Yes system.

I personally have used this outline multiple times in my business, my health, and even in pageantry. So I know first hand that it can be applied to every area of your life that you want to improve. You just have to be serious about what you truly want.

I know you hear that voice inside you telling you it’s time. Time for greatest, time to accomplish everything your heart desires. But you are in a state of fear, fear of failure, fear that you aren’t capable. We’ve all been there. Now is the time to push past those negative thoughts and take steps to ensure you have the life you’ve dreamed of.

Grab your copy of the 30 Day Girl Yes Guide Here.

Girl Yes 30 Day Guide now available on Amazon.

Trying Something New

April 21, 2021 lifestyle

I am a woman who’s willing to try something at least once. I mean, if you don’t like the end result you can just move on to the next. That’s my perspective anyway. I truly don’t believe in restrictions of any kind. As soon as I feel like I’m being boxed in or my creativity is being minimized I instantly pivot. I’ve been this way all my life and not having an idea as to why I struggled so much with being consistent. It was because it was my time to pivot.

Honestly, doing the same thing day in and day out seems so boring. I need to live an abstract, colorful life. Each day should be filled with new challenges and ways to push past your potential. This is why I live the “Girl Yes” lifestyle each day. I’m always looking for ways to level up my life and become greater.

Being ambitious requires a level of willingness. You have to be moldable and teachable. Wanting something you never had before will require you to do things you’ve never done before. Are you ready for a new life?

Being willing to challenge your skills and perspective are ideal to saying ‘Yes” to the life you want to lead.

Challenge Accepted

I challenge you. Yes you!

I want you to write 3 things you want to accomplish over the next 30 days. This can be anything from starting a daily journal(I can help with this), drinking more water, or even start working on that business plan you’ve had sitting on. The next 30 days are about to change your life!

It’s not going to be enough for you just to write out the three objectives. We now need to create a game plan.

HOW WILL YOU EXECUTE?

This is where being “bold” in your methods will come into play. You will have to get serious at this point.

If you really want to change your life you have to cut out the distractions and eliminate anything that will take your focus away from your top 3 goals.

This is the secret!!!

No Excuse

No more. It’s time to say “Girl Yes”.

Take Action

I’ve made it easy to outline your next 30 days. It’s a simple way to take daily action towards working on your daily goals as well as affirming that you are capable of greatness. Just follow the guide.

Grab your copy.

By following the guidelines outlined in this book you will be well on your way to becoming the best version of yourself.

Try something new today. Your future self with thank you for it.

Things You Should Know When Before Competing at Mrs. America

April 20, 2021 lifestyle

It has been exactly one week since I’ve been back from Las Vegas competing at Mrs. America. I’ve needed the entire week to get back on track and for my body to fully recuperate. To say this past weekend has been a world wind would be a complete understatement. As much as I tried to prepare for the week ahead, the 10 days that I spent in Las Vegas we’re completely overwhelming but in a good way. I’m going to share with you a few tips that will help you if you are on your way to compete for the prestigious title of Mrs America. Not only will these tips help you stay on track in maintaining your level of focus they will also help you not experience burnout and keep you level-headed. Remember we are competing for the crown and we have work to do.

Here are a few important topics I want to share to prepare you before traveling to compete for Mrs America.

Invest In Comfortable Heels

I’m sure by now you realize that you will be on your feet for the entire duration of your stay. Not only will you be on your feet all day you will also be expected to be at the top of your game. You will be stopped in the hotel to talk to guests and to take pictures with hotel staff and guests. Also expect to be moving from one end of the hotel to another for rehearsals, lunch breaks and makeup and hair touch-ups throughout the day.

Investing in a pair of comfortable shoes is my number one tip to get you through Mrs America week. Trust me when I tell you comfort is going to take president over style. By day three of wearing those pageant heels your feet will be barking at you.

There is nothing sexy about feet that are red, blistered, and painful to the touch.

As soon as I got off of the plane Mrs America week was in full swing. I dropped my bags off at the concierge desk and I was whisked away to my first photo shoot at the pool still wearing 6 inch heels. I then had to travel to the opposite side of the hotel to check in, collect my things, and then travel to the opposite side of the hotel for my first orientation. By 6 p.m. my feet hurt so bad I already had two blisters. You do not want this to be you on day one. I highly suggest that you always keep a pair of comfortable flats in your travel bag each day while walking around the hotel property.

Another Tip: If you are arriving on pageant day be sure your attire is picture worthy. You will be taking tons of photos.

Everyday Is a Photo Op: Dress To Kill

While we are on the subject of style I also want to emphasize the importance of showing up each day as Mrs. America. With all things, you always want to dress the part and Mrs. America week is the perfect opportunity to dress to Kill. My rule of thumb is always make sure that you are comfortable yet stylish. You will definitely have your nights where you will have to wear full evening gowns and over the top dresses. But your day to today wear should not only be comfortable it should be stylish.

Keep in mind that not only are you vying for your opportunity to be Mrs America you are also making tons of memories. This includes taking tons and tons of photographs not only with your new sash sisters but with guests who are attending the pageant and other pageant enthusiasts.

You don’t want to get caught in those sweatpants you wear around the house.

Take this opportunity to make sure you are presenting your best self. Yes your days will be filled with tons of rehearsals and events so you don’t want to wear a suit each and every day however, you definitely want to make a statement with each outfit that you wear. Make sure that it not only shows your personality but it also sets you apart from your fellow competitors.

Show Yourself Friendly

This next tip is critical because as a fellow competitor myself I know both sides of this coin. I know you may be a bit shy or even feel intimidated at times but please be friendly to your fellow competitors. I really want to emphasize this point because your first impression is typically your lasting impression. Keep in mind that you will be meeting at minimum 49 other women from across the country who will be sharing this journey with you. They are also very nervous, excited, and experiencing the same emotions as you are. A simple hello or a friendly smile can really break the ice.

As I mentioned previously you are competing to become Mrs America. You are going to have to get into the habit of becoming friendly and cultivating an environment where people feel comfortable walking up to you and starting up a conversation.

This is the perfect opportunity for you to learn how to do the following:

Connect with people from various backgrounds as well as networking with women and men.
Creating lasting friendships and relationships.
Getting a snapshot of what Mrs. America is really all about.

So being friendly also means speaking to guests and staff in the hotels and places you visit. I can tell you from first experience, queens who don’t speak are remembered.

I was standing in line getting coffee and striked up a conversation with a hotel guest. She told me about a fellow contestant who she waved at and the queen did not greet her. I apologized on her behalf and she told me that there were also three other competitors who did not speak back as they traveled throughout the hotel and she remembered what states they represented. This was very disheartening to hear as we are state representatives and ambassadors to our respective organizations. We want to be remembered as being kind and courteous. Remember your first impression is your lasting impression .

Make Memories

Oh the memories you will make. As I sit back and think of the countless times I laughed with my fellow sash sisters during the week it really makes my heart smile. Not only did we create tons and tons of memories but the friendships that we created will be lifelong friendships. I know this is going to be easier said than done but try to take a few moments each day to really reflect on the journey. What you are experiencing right now will be stories you share with your grandchildren for years to come. Really take in the time that you spent at Mrs America because as long as 10 days may seem it is going to be over in a blink of an eye. Savor the moment and enjoy the journey.

Remember Your Why

Your “why” should be at the top of your list when preparing to leave for Mrs America week. I mean this in all sincerity. While you’re packing your bags remember why you’re doing all of this. All the time, all the preparation, all the sacrifice. Remember this as you arrive at Mrs America week and keep it at the forefront of your mind when making any and all decisions.

Why do you want to be Mrs. America?

Why do you want this National platform?

What is your goal at Mrs America?

These are all of the things that you need to consider before stepping foot on that competition stage. Your “why” is going to be the driving force behind your performance at Mrs America.

You do not want to come home with any regrets about your personal interviews or the opportunities that passed you by. You want to remain steadfast in your reasoning for competing as well as maintaining a level head while going through this journey. It can be quite easy to get wrapped up and all of the gossip and drama that may or may not go on around you. I’m happy to say I did not experience any of this during my time at Mrs America however sometimes emotions have a way of changing the dynamic of competition. Don’t sweat the small stuff and allow other people’s personal emotions or problems to invade your mind. With any journey it’s never how you start it’s always how you finish your “why” I will keep you on track.

I hope this tips and suggestions have helped you as you prepare to compete at Mrs. America or any pageant for that matter. This journey is so rewarding in so many ways and my hope for you is that you enjoy every second of it.