Luxetips Travel! Packing for a 4 Day Trip in a Weekend Bag

Hello Divas!

P.U.S.H...Pray Until Something Happens.  It works!

I am not super organized in my general life, but when it comes to packing for a trip, I have it down to a science.  You see when I was a new young attorney living in New York, I traveled a lot and I always checked my bags.  After a certain airline lost my luggage about 3 times, I decided if I could not put all of my things in a carry-on, it had to stay home.

Well for my Essence trip, I packed two outfits per day (my standard rule) and packed enough shoes and accessories that were interchangeable and complimented every outfit.  EVERYTHING fit into my shoulder weekend bag and I was elated.  Take a look at what I packed:

Traveling Outfit Day 1:

This is what I wore on the airplane.  The shirt is from Forever 21.  The white linen pants are from Target.  I have these pants in tan and black.  They are lined and awesome!  The wedges are Guess and I purchased them for only $24.99 from Ross.  The authentic vintage python bag is a gift from my adopted Aunt.  Her style is timeless.  I love that python bag.

Night Out Outfit Day 1:

This is the DVF dress I purchased from The Lucky Exchange for only $35.  I paired it with my Chinese Laundry platforms and silver accessories.  After walking in the wedges all night and dancing in the Superdome, I wore a pair of silver Chinese Laundry flats that were a life saver.  The Chinese Laundry platforms and silver flats are from Ross and were $20 and $12 respectively.

Day Outfit Day 2:

I knew Day 2 would be packed with Ford activities such as test driving vehicles and hanging out at the Ford booth, so I wanted to be casual but really cute.  The striped dress is from my favorite boutique, K-La.  It was only $35.  The earrings were gratis via K-La boutique.  I purchased the dress on my birthday during Mother's Day weekend.  They were giving away free earrings with purchase.  Score!  I paired this outfit with the python bag and wedges.

Night Outfit Day 2:

I knew I was in for a treat with Kanye performing, so I went for a comfortable but sexy look.  This 100% silk Kimchi Blue dress was only $30 at The Lucky Exchange and it is in mint condition.  It was perfect for a night of concerts.  It is lightweight, comfy and gorgeous! I decided to ditch the platforms that night and simply wear my silver flats.  Good idea considering how much I was jumping around when Kanye performed.

Day Outfit Day 3:

This day I wanted to be a little bit more casual but stylish of course because we were going to a BBQ restaurant.  I purchased the skirt from Target for $20 and it is the cutest skirt ever!  It is has pleats in the fronts and pockets.  The striped shirt is light and loose and I purchased it from Ross for only $8.  I wore my silver flats and chilled that day.  This is now my favorite outfit!

Night Outfit Day 3:

Well on the last night I decided to glam it up a bit and rocked my black romper, black platforms and gold accessories.  I also styled my hair in a Farrah Fawcett feather style and if I must say, I was looking pretty hot! LOL!  However, after watching Kem, Trey Songz, New Edition, and MJB, the platforms had did me in.  But I ALWAYS carry my flats, so I changed into my gold flats and was back in business!

Day 4: Traveling Home!

I always try my best to look comfortable and well put together when traveling by air.  So I wore my gorgeous $7 on clearance, Target print dress and my wedges.  I also carried my white eyelet jacket by Willi Smith.  Planes get cold and it is always nice to have something to throw over your shoulders.  I purchased this jacket from The Lucky Exchange for only $18! Classic.  I paired the outfit with dark brown wood earrings.  They are on the shoes in the pic.

So how did I get all of this in my weekend bag with my makeup case?  Well I balled up the dresses, skirt, and shirt and lined them on either side of the bag. I put all of the shoes in the middle.  I placed my make-up case on top of the shoes and I stuffed my undies and things in the inside pockets of the bag.  Done.

As you can see, you can always travel light and still live the luxe life!


Toodles!

Luxetips For Less! Chloe Sunglasses at Ross

Hello Divas!

Life is good. Enjoy it!

Yesterday I took some time to help a friend find the perfect dress and accessories for her graduation ceremony.  We went to Ross because in my opinion Ross has the best dresses at rock bottom affordable prices.  Plus I can always find a pair of shoes or other home items while I am there.  So while browsing the jewelry case look what we found:

Chloe Shades! These Shades are just drop dead gorgeous.  First they are an off white beige color, tortoise shell and Big Big Big!

Can we say Divalicous!

But the best thing about these shades were they were only $70!! Chloe shades for $70 bucks? A steal!  They usually retail for $378!

I told my friend if she didn't buy those shades she was insane.  She did. And guess what, as I predicted folks keep complimenting her on how fly she looks. That is what $378 shades for only $70 will do for ya!

Divas don't sleep on Ross.  Most people discount shop at TJ MAXX and Marshalls but Ross has tons of little finds and steals. I love Ross!

Toodles!

Ross Run: Madden Girl Booties

Hello Divas!

Life is beautiful! So enjoy it!

Before Christmas I made a Ross run in search of booties and some long sleeve shirts.  I was speaking at the Lavish Xperience conference and it was freezing in Atlanta.  I wanted some cute booties to keep my feet warm while also being stylish.  Well Ross NEVER disappoints and I found these beauties:

Look at the details on this boots:

How cute???

These booties are made by Steve Madden, Madden Girl.  I wear these bad boys with just about anything.  I have worn them with black lace tights and a ruffled cocktail dress.  I have also worn them with leggings, jeans and a simple black and white dress.  I love them and guess what?  They only cost $20! Woot!

Ross is always my go to store when I need to find cute, quality and affordable clothes in a hurry.  I frequent my neighborhood Ross store so much that I know the lay out well and can get in and out in about 30 minutes.

I love Ross!  Do you shop at Ross?

Toodles!

Ready for Spring! Chinese Laundry Platform Sandals at Ross

Hello Divas!

Last week was luxe baby's birthday and I had to find her the cutest dress possible for her special day.  Her birthday was also the day she was taking class photos.  So I ventured to Ross to find a dress that was super cute and super affordable!  Ross is a great place to shop for Children's clothes as well as Women's shoes, clothing, and home accessories.  So I did find luxe baby the perfect Spring dress for only $6! Wowza!  However, as I was walking towards the cashier, I passed the Women's shoe section and look what I found peeking out from the shelves:

Chinese Laundry pure fabulousness! They are about 4.5 inches, faux croc embossed and gorgeous!  Look at that beautiful cork heel!

I must admit this is the first time I have purchased platform sandlas and they are super comfy.  The padding on the platform is very cush.  It is like I am walking on little pillows!  But the best part is I only paid $20 for these shoes! $20! Can you believe it?  They are currently selling for $69 on Chinese Laundry's website. Love it!  I tell you when Ross is a hit, it is a hit! Although you may not find these exact shoes at a Ross near you, Ross has tons of beautiful name brand designer sandals for sale. Check them out!

Toodles!

12 Days of Luxetips Before Christmas! Day Five: Yummy Holiday Fragrances!

Hello Divas!

How is your week going? I hope absolutely wonderful!

Are you enjoying the 12 Days of Luxetips Before Christmas? I hope so! It is so much fun!

During the holidays I always purchase a holiday inspired candle so my home can smell all Christmasy! A good pumpkin spice or cranberry candle can definitely put me in the mood for Christmas. I usually buy high end candles at Ross. You can get Yankee candles for up to 80% off. I love Ross for home products! Here are some of my favorite candles:

Yankee Candle Spiced Pumpkin. Smells just like a warm pumpkin pie. Divine.

Body Shop's Merry Cranberry Candle. This candle has such an intense berry smell. Plus this candle is soy based!


What scent or fragrance do you use to get you in the holiday spirit?

Toodles!

A.J. Wright! Like TJ MAXX but Less Expensive

Hello Divas!

I hope all is well! I hope your life is simply fab! I have been out of commission...super insanely busy, but I am getting back into the swing of things!

Last Wednesday I had the opportunity to attend a Sneak Peak Blogger event for the opening of the new A.J. Wright store at StoneCrest Mall in the greater Atlanta area. A.J. Wright is like the Old Navy of Discount Stores and is HUGE in Canada. You guys know how much I love shopping at discount stores. I always find designer items for less! So I can buy more while still on a budget!

Representatives from the company gave us information on the company; brands carried by AJ Wright; and a tour. I was pleased to discover that in addition to men, women, and children designer clothing items, AJ Wright also carries home decor items, brand name toys, and bridal party dresses!

The company provided me with a $100 gift card to see how many items I could buy with $100! Considering I am a bargain shopper I was up for the challenge:

I purchased the following items:

Luxe hubby a Ralph Lauren Polo shirt for only $12.99! Yes only $12.99! This is by far the least expensive price I have ever seen for Ralph Lauren Polo shirts. Amazing!

I purchased Luxe baby several play wear items. These sets were only $6 a piece.

Luxe son was in tow and I picked up several 3-pack Hanes Briefs for only $2.99. These briefs are $5.99 in Target! Woot! I also purchased Luxe son Hanes undershirts for $3.99. In addition, he talked me into buying him a set of Transformers. Fortunately the Transformers were only $19.99 for 3.

For myself, I purchased a pair fabulous and cute beige flats for $10, Levis dark wash straight leg jeans for $12.99, and a men's oxford shirt for only $12.99.

Another thing I like about AJ Wright was their selection of dresses! So cute and affordable! This dress is 100 silk and was only $29.99! You can't beat it!

I would certainly become a regular shopper at AJ Wright for cute dresses, adorable shoes, and items for the luxe kids. Like I said this discount store caries the same items as TJ MAXX, Ross, and Target but at significantly better prices. As you can see, you can shop for the whole family and get a ton of items for the low! Prices at AJ Wright are up to 70% off retail! Now that is my kind of store!

Toodles!

Effective Discount Shopping

Hello Divas!

How is life treating you? Fabulous right? Well some of my girlfriends always ask me two questions: 1. Where did you find that item of clothing, shoes, purse, etc.? and then after I tell them what I paid for it, 2. How do you find such great deals? So this post is for them and the rest of you ladies who love to shop but loooove a bargain.

1. Consignment Shops/Thrift Stores: Based on what I am looking for, my first line of defense is always consignment shops or thrift stores. When looking for great deals on high end jeans or bags, I always shop here first. Usually, I can find very gently used or never used, jeans, bags, and shoes at the Junior League of Atlanta's Nearly New Shop. Check out my previous post on this fantastic thrift shop here. Junior League members, who are very posh and stylish women, donate tons of designer wear to this shop. The clothing is always in good shape and very reasonably priced. A $400.00 Bestsy Johnson bag sold for $75.00! Paper Denim and Cloth Jeans....$15.00. This is a MUST stop if you live in Atlanta. If not, check your local Junior League to see if they also have a thrift shop.

2. Discount Stores. My Second line of defense is discount stores that sell designer fashions for less. These stores include your Loehmann's, Sims, Ross, TJ MAXX, Marshalls, and Burlington Coat Factory. If I am looking for semi-formal or formal wear, cashmere, or shoes, I usually shop at Loehmann's. I shop at Ross if I am looking for dresses for myself or clothing for my son. I purchased my son several stylish but classic Ralph Lauren polo shirts at Ross for 13 bucks! You can't beat that! TJ MAXX and Marshalls are favorites for Jeans (True Religion Jeans at the TJ MAXX and Marshalls in Buckhead (Atlanta) usually go for $99.), suits, handbags, or high end bath and body products. Lastly, Burlington Coat Factory is excellent if you are looking for a high end but affordable coat or business suit. My favorite Burlington Coat Factory is located at Discover Mills Mall in Duluth, GA.

3. Department Stores and Speciality Stores. My last resort is Department Stores. Of course, If I am buying high end make-up or beauty products, I usually shop at Sephora or a Department Store. I like shopping for beauty products at Department Stores because they usually give you a gift with purchase. Love these! But I only shop at Department Stores for clothing or shoes if they are having a major sale.
For example, most Department Stores and speciality stores will have a couple of semi-annuals sales a year. This is a great time to get real bargains. Also, I shop at Nordstrom's for my Stuart Weitzman shoes. I discovered that Nordstroms will most likely have a sale on Stuart Weitzman's shoes that the boutique does not. In addition, I do frequent a couple of boutiques that I really like, but I have found that if I wait 2-3 weeks, an item I am in love with will usually go on sale. This is when I go in to swoop it up!

My motto is to never pay full price. Especially now that I have kids! LOL! And if you are not on a budget, effective discount shopping only gives you an opportunity to buy SO-MUCH-MORE!!!!

Toodles!