Lately Target is a very dangerous place for me. I’m not sure what’s changed in the last 10 years… but I like it. Just wanted to share a few of my most recent budget-friendly target finds…
I’ve had my eye on these Steve Madden flats since mid summer… but just couldn’t justify spending $90. Although these Mossimo flats definitely teeter on the edge of slipper + shoe, I have a feeling that they are just the thing to satisfy my craving. Plus, the comfort factor will guarantee that they get lots of wear this season. And obviously, you can’t beat the price.
Like an idiot, I recently purchased this American Apparel Carry-All leather pouch for $46.00. I wanted something simple that I could toss inside the diaper bag when I was toting it around – but still cute enough to carry as a clutch/purse. At a fraction of the price, and pretty darn cute, I wish I’d skipped the over-priced hipster variety in favor of this Mossimo wool one.
I’m pretty sure by the end of the season I will own these in EVERY color! I’m a sucker for JCrew’s Vintage Matchstick cords, but at $89.95 a pop… I could have 4 different colors of these Mossimo Skinnies!
Definitely had to scoop up with little set for Liv – I’m finding for the first time that we actually NEED to buy her some clothes – I thought the day would NEVER come… that maybe she would stay in 0-3mo… then surely 3-6mo but then I blinked and she was busting out of her 6 month onesies… and now we’re on the verge of outgrowing even some of our 9 month stuff… with no back stock! EEP! We’re overdue for a trip to Just Between Friends to score some preowned goodies!
Contemplating this little lamb costume for Liv for Halloween…
I mean… who isn’t having a LOVE affair with Pinterest? Only mildly distracting, my pinning obsession has actually made life a little bit easier. Pinterest is the only place I turn for new recipes – if I’m stuck on what to cook for dinner – I just refer to the many things I pinned at 11pm the night before… “That looks tasty”… What to wear? No problem – just ask Pinterest. The sole source of Olivia’s nursery inspiration… Pinterest. You get the idea…
Coconut + Ginger Chicken with Jasmine Rice – I made this for dinner a few nights ago and would consider it a huge success. Kind of a nod to Thai Curry Chicken… but without the curry. The recipe is a stove-top/slow-cooker hybrid… but because I was determined to make it as EASY as possible – I slightly altered my method and went crock-pot all the way. Also – I added potatoes to beef it up just a bit. Although Dan was not as enthusiastic; “it was too exotic for him” – I thought it was deliciously out of the ordinary. Most ingredients were already stocked in my pantry… definitely give it a whirl, or repin for a night that you’re feeling uninspired.
Vegass Leopard Print Flats by Steve Madden – Pinned these Steve Madden Leopard VEGASS flats onto my Fall Wishlist. I just know I would get TONS of wear out of them. I’m always a sucker for leopard… and flats and tennies pretty much rule my footwear selection in this current phase of life. The price tag isn’t that bad – maybe I’ll wait until they’re slightly discounted. Kind of loving the pointed.. but slightly rounded point… toe. Nice alternative to these Sam Edleman Leopard Smoking Slippers I’ve also been eyeing. RWAR.
Chambray Inspiration – And there it was… hiding on Pinterest. The PERFECT chambray shirt. I searched and searched earlier in the season and settled on this popover variety from Anthropologie… but I’m finding myself wanting a slightly heavier… more industrial? version. TinEye couldn’t find the origin of this beauty… so I’ll hold out for yet another substitute. Loving it layered with a chunky sweater and leggings.#READYFORFALL
Photo Wall – I love this DIY photo wall – would definitely be super cute with Polaroid pictures – but because I’m not about to run out and spend $$$ on film for our camera – maybe ordering Instagram pics would work? I mean – Instagram is the new Polaroid, right? Would be fun in an entry, office or “mud room” – maybe even floor-to-ceiling bulletin board behind to make swapping for fresh photos a snap.
DIY Cloth Diaper Detergent – Just in case you missed it… We are officially a cloth-diapering family. It might make us a little bit more earthy-crunchy… but hey, we’re comfortable with that. I did initially buy the Rockin’ Green Cloth Diaper detergent – a little pricey, but worth it to start. When we run out, I think i’ll give this DIY concoction a go.
Just Between Friends is a HUGE children’s and maternity consignment sale. Sort of like a giant community garage sale. Consignors bring their new and gently used clothing, gear, and toys to sell at this 3-4 day event. Usually held at convention center-type locations, Just Between Friends events can be found in cities all across the country. Find an event here.
A few insider tips –
Register as a first-time momma (dads, and grandparents too!) and gain VIP access one day before the sale is open to the public.
Consigners and volunteers are also eligible for early access and presale. Consigners who also volunteer earn a larger profit on items sold.
Often the last day of the sale they run everything at 50% OFF
Kids and Babies are not allowed during presale. The only exception – “nursing” babies who must be worn in a carrier or sling. I remember reading that strollers weren’t allowed at all… however, this is definitely not enforced.
They do offer big blue Ikea shopping bags but best to bring your own/ leave with your own (full of treasures).
My first experience with JBF was before Olivia was born. I attended the Plano Sale on the last day (knowing that the selection would be picked-over) having every intention of just looking to see what it was all about. I walked out $15 later with an armful of gently used (some even new with tags) outfits, a bassinet frame (I ditched the mattress pad + sheet set) several classic kids books and a wooden chandelier to hang in the nursery!
This weekend is the Dallas/Mesquite Sale at the Mesquite Rodeo Exhibit Hall. Schedule Here. Thursdays are definitely the best day to shop the best selection and totally worth the $3 entrance fee (only charged on Thursday). It’s best to go with an idea of what you’re looking for otherwise it can seem overwhelming. This was my first time attending the Dallas/Mesquite sale and it was easily 4x bigger than the Plano event. 50+ people in the check-out line… definitely crowded! My friend Michelle brought a stroller in today with no problem…I have mixed feelings about stroller vs. baby wearing, definitely benefits & drawbacks either way. I’m a baby wearer and Liv stays happier but as she gets heavier it might get more challenging.
The selection was impressive. Although JBF specifically requests only items “in good condition” – if your standards are as high as mine… you’ll find that you’ll have to dig through lots of “very loved” to find the “like new” and “gently used.”
Very Good Condition. I’ve been thinking about buying one of these but just couldn’t justify the price tag (new). I’d seen the cloth variety at resale shops around town but really wanted one with a tray. Liv is already a huge fan.
Sturdy, Loved, Cheap – a definite DIY project. For some crazy reason, I didn’t think to register for a high chair when I was pregnant. I guess 6 months just seemed like an eternity away. But let me tell you… 6 months FLEW by. And now we’re gearing up for solids… needing a high chair. This bargain variety came with a darling teddy bear cover/cushion that I’m going to disassemble, study, and recreate (with help from Michelle – who is going to teach me how to sew – Check that off the 2012 to-do list) using fabric that better represents Liv’s little personality. Also considering a new coat of baby-friendly paint to cover the “love” marks and scratches.
Set of 2 Carter’s 9 Mo. Sleepers $2.00 (Similar On Sale $9.60 Each)
Set of 2 Gerber 9 Mo. Sleepers $2.00 (Similar $14.99/ 2Pc Set)
Definitely an awesome opportunity to find great stuff for kiddos and babies. Eventually, I’m going to get my act together enough to volunteer + sell. Any of you other momma’s ever shopped, sold or volunteered at a JBF sale? Where do you buy budget-friendly kiddo stuff?
On top of dressing my 5+lb “new mom body”, (Read: slightly lumpy) I’m feeling like lots of my old stand-by outfits and favorite pieces are no longer (as) appropriate for #momlife. I know, I know. At 26, and size 2-4, it’s still perfectly appropriate (mom or not) for me to wear short(er) shorts. Yet I’m finding that some of my pre-baby purchases make me feel like I look like the nanny instead of the mommy. I’m finding it challenging to maintain my personal style and feel like I’m dressing appropriately for this new phase of life. How did you first-time mommas resolve this conundrum?
Summer in Texas requires the following summer essentials: shorts, tanks, lightweight dresses + skirts. Darling as all of the cropped, colored and printed jean trend is, it’s just not practical July through September here. Unless you work/play exclusively indoors… but even still… I say you’re crazy.
While shopping for shorts, the following considerations were important to me:
Pre-baby I felt comfortable in the shortest of shorts and since I’m not ready to go the bermuda or “walking-short” route (At least not until I want to look 30) I was determined to find a perfect-fit short-short or boyfriend-style silhouette.
Not wanting to forgo the printed trend, I was looking for a print that I wouldn’t get tired of after 2 wears and that paired well with neutral tops
Denim is great. But then there’s that 100+ degree temperature issue to consider. Lightweight materials were key.
Madewell ArtDot Shorts $59.50
Perfect with a Chambray popover or brightly colored lightweight tee or tank. These Madewell ArtDot Shortsfit at the natural waist, on the shorter side of short, but a great fit. I opted for the black and cream version of these shorts but the burnt orange is pretty adorable too! Buy Here
JCrew 3″ Chino ON SALE $29.99
A great stand-by, JCrew 3″ Chino Shorts (offered in 4″or 5″ also) are a fantastic, comfortable and colorful option. Buy Here
Zara Floral Shorts $39.90
I fell in love with these Zara Floral Shorts – ultimately too short for me, but I felt I should include them because they’re such a great print, good fit, and reasonably priced! Buy Here
Target Printed Cotton Shorts $17.99
I purchased these Mossimo Tie-Dye Cotton Shorts at the beginning of summerand have pretty much lived in them. The fit is definitely more like PJs than anything else – But pockets in the back make them feel substantial enough to wear out running errands or as a cover-up. Buy Here in multiple prints.
Madewell Seawall Shorts ON SALE $44.99
Purchased these Madewell Seawall Shorts yesterday ON SALE! I’m imagining them with lightweight button-up and casual sandals or crocheted tank. I’m a sucker for an elastic waist… because on most days, comfort outweighs style. Buy Here
