{Swag} Free Sunglasses

Sunshine, yellow pants , and free sunnies from RedStar . These are a few of my favorite things. Today felt very much like spring and wearing my yellow pants felt like the right thing to do! I'm standing right in the sun and enjoying the rays no matter how harsh the lines and weird shadows. It…

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10 Questions for a Thriftanista - Rebecca

Happy Friday! It's time to feature another fabulous Thriftanista. This month is thrift and natural hair blogger and vlogger Rebecca of Secrets of Essence. I virtually met her via the BLM: Blogger Like Me Facebook group . I love "meeting" new thrifting buddies. Let's get started!

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{Modern Vintage} Polyester Dream

Hi! My name is Troy and I'm addicted to vintage polyester. I'm normally a fan of high quality fabrics but there's just something about vintage poly.  It is not a freedom fabric. It's not fondle worthy (shout out to the silk  kimono ) but it sure does look pretty AND THE SAME after ev…

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Sweatshirt and Midi Skirt Weekend

This is the most perfect of weekend attire. The kangaroo pouch red sweatshirt is ultra comfortable. The pocket keeps my hands warm and I can leave my big purse at home. Everything goes in the pouch. When I'm done running around, it's also a great place for the remote control that always se…

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{SAHM Style} Thrift Challenge

I'm participating in Dina's Days reader thrift challenge .  Using only thrift finds, we are challenged to duplicate the look of the month. This month's challenge outfit was found on Pinterest and features a casual chic look that would work great in the SAHM closet.  I'm glad I partici…

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{City} Moonshine + Monet at Hotel Lincoln

What is the most fun you can have on a Tuesday night? I'll give you a hint. It involves moonshine (or wine) and painting. Chicago's vintage swank Hotel Lincoln kicked off its Moonshine + Monet event last night. It's the perfect adventure for those of us who like the nightlife but also …

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My Self in a Kimono

My self likes to wear interesting clothes. My self thrifted a kimono (I think) without a clue as to how to wear it. Much like my wedding day , I'm pretty sure I'm wearing this traditional garment all wrong. This beauty caught my eye with its gorgeous colors and watercolor like floral patten…

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5 Reasons Thrift Shopping Isn't Working for You

I never find anything good at the thrift store. I hear it all the time. If you're the lone thriftanista among your friends you've probably heard it too. While I don't doubt it can be a bit of a struggle finding the good stuff, I fully believe that everyone can be successful in the hunt…

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{City} Shontay Pinder SS14 Trunk Show

As a special treat to myself, I spent a Violet free afternoon checking out Chicago designer Shontay Pinder's Spring / Summer 2014 Passport collection. The new collection featured an all white palette of modern style vintage tops, dresses and skirts. Perfect for me as I love to mix modern and v…

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Transition to Spring with Thrift Style

If you're in a climate like Chicago, you probably don't need those spring clothes cropping up in stores just yet. We have a month, max 3 of chilly temperatures left. I am sick of my winter clothes but unless I want to freeze I'll need to keep wearing them a wee bit longer. I can howeve…

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{City} Own the Room Hosted by Ann Taylor + Marie Claire

I attended  Anne Taylor  and  Marie Claire 's Own the Room event last week. I went because I've been seeking out opportunities to learn and flex my networking muscle. Given my  socially awkward nature , it's very difficult for me to put myself out there but I'm always looking for growth …

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{The Thriftanista Closet} Style Capsule #1

I haven't officially opened my online thrift store, The Thriftanista Closet . I'm still moving things around but it is up and running! One of the collections I'm starting is a Style Capsule where I will add complete looks that highlight some of my favorite fashion trends like animal pri…

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Tastemakers and Foodies Shop Mariano's Chicago

This sponsored post is part of a  #MyMarianos  grocery store Chicago #shop hosted by the social shopper media company #CollectiveBias. One of my favorite things about Chicago is the food. We have an amazing selection of food choices to suit every palate. I don't have the opportunity to explore a…

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{Tax Refund Treat} Cheap Wireless Plan

This sponsored post is part of a cheapest wireless plans  #shop hosted by the social shopper media company #CollectiveBias. I am no stranger to treating myself. In fact, I treat myself everyday. Most of the time it doesn't involve a lot of money, maybe a nap when V naps or sneaking a cookie wit…

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