I shopped from 10AM until 5PM and I spent only $112 for a complete wardrobe of classic quality pieces that will round out and replace things in my current wardrobe.
It all began with a donation drop off at the Salvation Army at 436 Atlantic Avenue. Of course I couldn't help but pull out my list of wardrobe-to-buy items and troll the aisles in hope that I would come across some of the classic pieces of clothing that are on it. In a matter of minutes I spied with my little eye and nimble hands a Banana Republic black v-neck cashmere sweater for $2.99 and a pair of their man's style neutral season pin stripped trousers for $7.99 plus 50% off because of the tag color. Further rummaging unearthed a Talbot's white cotton tuxedo style shirt with French cuffs for $2.99 and an August Silk mini-black ribbed cardigan for $2.99. All the items still had their original tags on them and are in perfect condition. For under $20.00 I deleted 4 items off the list.
Inspired by my big score I headed up the road to Target. I bought nothing to wear. Not a thing! I was disappointed by not being able to find anything worth buying and can’t help but wonder what is going on with the quality vs. cost at that store. After running into a neighbor that I adore, chatting for about 1/2 hour then breaking the cart escalator - things fall out of carts! Don't ask! - I started to head home with the intent of going shopping in the city today but luckily remembered that there is a Payhalf (http://www.payhalfstores.com/index.php ) at the other end of the mall.
For those of you not in the know Payhalf is a chain of stores, 50 stores over 7 states, that sells brand named designer and lower priced trendy goods for at least half of their usual retail price. Even at full price the deals at this store are often unbelievable. Today most of the fall/winter items were 30-60% off their already discounted costs. The Payhalf in the Atlantic Center – 625 Atlantic Avenue - carries most of the current trends for all members of the family and home. Whether you're a junior, a plus size or somewhere in between you will always be able find something to wear or accessorize yourself with in this store. Most of the goods are true designer labeled items that are discounted because of the chain's buying power and the quality ranges from disposable, slightly irregular to perfect. As with any department store you have to try things on because cut and fit varies from label to label.
I proceeded to find, try on and buy a boyfriend style black sweater, another August Silk cardigan, a shorted sleeved leopard print sweater my sister will eventually "borrow", a white cotton tailored men's style shirt with detachable tie, a sheer white cotton ruffled front blouse, a thin red mock croc belt, a reversible black leather/patent leather belt, a wide woven yellow leather belt, a set of 3 black chunky wooden and gold toned bangles and 3 pairs of silver toned earrings that will be fun to wear. All these items are from name brand woman's manufacturers and all from this fall/winter season. I also bought a great strapless shirred denim dress with large front patch pockets for the coming summer at its Payhalf price of $9.99. It can be worn as either dress or high waisted skirt, with blouse of course. I believe I mentioned today's excursion, including the Salvation Army purchases, only cost me $112.00 total.
I encourage you to think outside the box when it comes to shopping. Don't just focus on the obvious store choices, no matter how good their commercials and jingles are. Give a place you might not consider venturing into a chance, you may be pleasantly surprised.
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