This post is dedicated to:  sweet Cheryl, networking “Realtor with the Red Shoes” and my “Sister with the Sparkle”, Mrs. Mishe, California party pal and educational leader.

Ah, Dorothy…a girl after my own shoe closet.  When she wasn’t scampering down the yellow brick road, I like to think she was indulging in a scrumptious sushi lunch and taking Toto shopping at her local Nordies Rack!  Oh well, since she’s too busy being a still shot on my fabulous Wizard of Oz T-shirt, I guess I’ll suffer through it. :)  Are these T’s not the cutest ever?!  For only $5.00 each at a Macy’s clearance sale, I just couldn’t pass them up.  Normally I wouldn’t wear something this clingy, but layering a snug crimson red tank top underneath made my back appear a little more, um, easy on the eyes. :)  Hey, the original Spaghetti Strap Spanx!

Without knowing the Texas wind was going to blow a bit more like a Kansas tornado, I wore this flirty black Max Studio skirt – loving the ruffle detail at the hem – to enjoy the warmer weather.  Sorry, Mr. Scarecrow:  Marshalls @ $10.00 = No Brainer. 🙂

Let’s not forget the real reason we’re all here – peep toes, and wedges, and pumps, OH MY!  The type of slip-on sandal I’m wearing is simply a “must have” for any lady’s wardrobe.  Visit the clearance section of a DSW store and look at the colored stickers for additional discounts!  Need a different size?  Ask the folks at the counter to research on their register, and if they find it, they’ll ship it to you for FREE with an extra coupon inside!  You can always return them to a local DSW store, if they’re not quite the Ruby Slippers you had in mind.  It’s that easy!

If you’re like my girlfriends, Cheryl and Mishe, you too have a favorite pair of heels you love to click.  Please share with me, my Pretties! 🙂

MsMona

“Pinkstripe” suits aren’t easy to find, so when these last two pieces were literally hanging out on a rack by themselves, I knew it was meant to be.  Silver gray and fuchsia are a beautifully feminine combination for Spring.  Light and girly!  If you’re looking for a fun variety of discounted casual, professional and special occasion wear – remember, Easter is just a week away 🙂 – check out 1/2 of 1/2 in Lewisville.

My amazing friend, Mischell, introduced our networking group to a non-profit organization whose mission is to increase organ donation, Regift Life, Renew Health and Restore Families.  Take the time to visit TaylorsGift.org and sign up as an organ donor today.

MsMona

Spring fashion shows have arrived!  My friend, Kelly, put together a mahvelous Girls Night at her bank in Richardson, featuring some cute clothes and accessories from Get Noticed Boutique.  The appetizers, champagne, and relaxed atmosphere made for a wonderful event.  Fabulous job, Kelly – loved it! 🙂

“I thought you were one of the models!”

I was pleasantly surprised by the comment, then realized it must have been my favorite red patent bag ($36.00) and shoe ($20.99) combo they noticed. :)  I am most attracted to the shade of red that is made with more blue than orange, so to find an exact match in the clearance sections of two different Dillard’s locations?  I’m telling you, it was nothing but divine intervention.  The detail on my “Sgt. Pepper” jacket (1/2 of 1/2, Richardson) was what I first noticed on this $9.00 bargain – purchasing the trim in a fabric store would cost me just as much!  Add a starred leather bracelet, satin pants and a few bits of $1 bling…I’m ready for the bright lights of the corporate catwalk!  Or, maybe I’ll become a really stylish roadie… 🙂

What rock ‘n roll artist or band do you remember as a fixture on the fashion scene?

MsMona

“BTW, I went by Estate Classics & bought one of the Louis Vuitton purses – thanks for the info!”

My sweet friend, Lisa, has been on the lookout for a fun LV bag to carry every day.  Like so many hard working women out there, it’s difficult for her to carve out a few hours during the week to focus on shopping for the perfect purse.  While I was out looking at consignment stores last week, I stepped into Estate Classics and found several LV’s that I thought Lisa might like – and at an additional 50% off, it couldn’t hurt to send a photo or two, right? :)  I just love it when my Sistas pick up something so fabulous!

Have you found a crazy couture bargain you just couldn’t pass up? 🙂

MsMona

Most of you already know about our photography & event design business, CLM Creative.  We are used to being behind the lens, so when it comes time for our own family photos, we trade services with our photographer friends and bring our girls, Miso & Mochi, into the picture. 🙂

For this session, we wanted to experiment with the colorful backdrop of Deep Ellum, downtown Dallas.  The graffiti art alone makes for a truly amazing landscape!  I’m a huge fan of contrast, so we dressed in classic black with a rocker edge to pop off of the gorgeous scenery around us.  You probably have those basic layering pieces in your closet – pants, dress shirt, leggings, skirt, sweater – but if not, check out your local discount and resale stores for inexpensive additions to your wardrobe.  I found the cropped faux leather jacket at Ross for only $9.99! 🙂

Have clothing choices ever been your family photo nightmare?

MsMona