Saturday, May 28, 2011

It’s In the Bag

Oh dear readers, it’s been a long time. And for the lapse in posts, I do apologize. I am working on drafting an editorial schedule which will guarantee regularity…even a few themed posts. So be excited!

As for the irregularity in clever little updates and quirky finds, I must say that the short story of the matter is that I’ve been rather busy. Busy in trying to work toward long term life goals is a whole new level of productivity of which I am not accustomed. Short term goals are so much easier, suffice it to say. Upload pictures, promote, update the blog. These are all activities I very much enjoy. But things needed to change.

And I couldn’t be happier to say that I am accepting my own ability to change for the better. Since joining Weight Watchers and committing to standard exercise and assorted daily physical activity I have lost nearly 30 pounds in the last two months. The chronic pain and fatigue from degenerative illnesses has been significantly less and I have a new found appreciation for life.

I have also expanded my freelance writing career as a fashion and beauty blogger for Rock This Style. And this has been a fun and rewarding experience, albeit one I feel is slightly conflicted by own ideals on commodities and cost. I love and appreciate fashion as an art form and I love the ability to transform and evolve my look as I so desire. And well…we all know my love for Sephora. BUT... I also have what could best be described as a torrid love affair with the kitschy, vintage, one-of-a-kind finds that only secondhand venues can provide.

So, in honor of my changing pants size and my new title of fashion blogger, I will attempt to utilize Let’s Go Thrifting to reconcile the difference between these two worlds.

God knows I need some new (to me) clothes while my body is transitioning. Now I can look for trends and vintage looks that are inspired by Rock This Style, but for a price I can afford.

And that was the long version of the story. Whew!

Have you just ever felt so…accomplished that you had to share the satisfaction with others? Weight loss? Writing gigs? Overall sense of accomplishment? It’s in the bag!

And since this isn’t solely a getting-to-know-you post…when it comes to bags, I’ve found a few that I just adore.


Floral Bag
$4.97 @ Goodwill.
















This spacious floral number is my new favorite carry-all. Wallet, keys, phone, makeup, book, iPod. It will all fit inside with room to spare. It came with a shoulder strap, but I think I’ll use the handle so I can swing it to and fro’ while skipping down the street. 

IMG_7329
$4.97 @ Goodwill.
















And for the first time, I’ve found two lovely bags on the same thrift trip. This beige, distressed leather satchel from Nine West has a little bit of a Western feel, which is great since I can't find cowboy boots in my size anywhere.

Sigh.

There is still much to be said on the topic of change…and, of course, the topic of thrifting. And I can’t wait to share my experiences with all of you!

 What positive changes have you made lately?

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Country Life, City Life: The J. Crew Catalogue of Thrifting.

City life, a bustling metropolis of businesswomen on the go. Big meetings, short deadlines and faraway out-of-town conferences. What’s a girl to do?

Why, pack up her dreamy, vintage sky blue Samsonite train case, of course!


Train case_Inside

Trains case_side
Samsonite train case, $6.97 from 2nd Avenue Value Store.
 
But when the big city lights shine just a tad too bright, a gal’s just got to get away. May we suggest a leisurely holiday to the countryside…of Japan?

Towering mountains, limitless lakes and a cool and easy breeze makes this country life worth living. Sit back and take it all in.

Tree art 1

Tree Art dimension
Three-dimensional handmade tree bark art from Japan, 50 cents at a local Philadelphia flea market.
There she can enjoy the comforts of breathtaking views and with just a few simple ingredients, equally exotic cuisine.


Japanese cookbook

Japanese cookcook_inside
Vintage Japanese Cookbook, 1969. $1 from the flea market.


















For ordering information, please scout the aisles of your local thrift store.