Leopard print may not be the new black, but this Queen of Clothing finds it to be a purrrfect pairing of sexy and sassy!

I’m not a lover of all things leopard – for me, it has to start with a blending of black and brown.  In the case of these accessories (Betsey Johnson ring & necklace, Claire’s Boutique earrings), they also use a dash of gold or tan to highlight the print.  I found this cute short skirt at Clotheshorse Anonymous, and I just knew it was meant for me.  You see, the amazing faux fur coat I’m wearing was made by my late Mom, the original Discount Diva, back in 2001.  I know, right?! 🙂

I had never seen the exact material used in clothing anywhere, then I go to a fab Dallas consignment store and BAM!  A Neiman Marcus skirt (yes, tag still on) in my size for only $34.00.  My creative partner would have been so disappointed if I didn’t see her message in a gift that was absolutely heaven sent.  Missing you, Mom…

Do you have a favorite animal print for clothing or decor?

MsMona

Do I LOVE me some costume jewelry – it’s one of the simplest, and least expensive, ways to accent your outfits!  And when I find a funky little piece with a super clearance price tag?  Feels like I hit the fashion lotto!

I visited Charming Charlie during their $1 jewelry sale and found these sweet bracelets.  Both of the cross cuffs had rhinestones missing, as well as the vintage cameo charms.  Can you believe the rhinestones were the same size for both?!  God is amazing.  So I put my crafting hat on and went to work removing stones from one of the cuffs to add to the others.  Just a few sticky fingers later…Voilà! 🙂

Is it worth putting in some elbow grease?

Let’s see:  the cuffs were originally $14.97 each and the charm bracelet was $12.97.  Hmm…I would have to say YES, definitely worth the small amount of time and effort.  Two bracelets as good as, well, from the manufacturer! 🙂

When was the last time you crafted a special piece back to life?

MsMona

The past few weeks have been busy, but super fun!  We’re back to business meetings and preparing for an amazing women’s conference in Farmers Branch, TX.  Within my topic, “Fearless Fashion – Dressing Smart and Looking the Part…for Less”, I’ll be speaking about how to keep your wardrobe fresh with accessories. 🙂

It seems like headbands and barrettes have been a part of fashion forever.  What I love about today’s version are the added feminine detail – rhinestones, feathers, flowers, ribbons.  The extras bring a special touch to the hair accessory, allowing you to incorporate a “theme” to your outfit.

For my husband’s office party, I wore this hot pink piece, along with my sassy pink faux fur, to tie in an early 40’s flair (my FAV fashion/style era).  I recently saw the smaller size barrette/pin, which would be oh so cute on the collar of a simple black jacket.

Where do you find your fabulous hair accessories? 🙂

MsMona

Happy New Year from beautiful Dallas, Texas and welcome to MsMona.net, a blog with tips and tricks to discount shopping for the so NAUTE couture. 🙂

Now, let me preface this by saying I am absolutely not against couture shopping – some of my favorite stores carry the most gorgeous name brand pieces.  However, not everyone can afford boutique, or even some department store, pricing.  If it’s in your budget this year, fabulous!  If not, don’t worry – stick with me and you’ll look just as amazing!

Let’s start 2011 off right with a hearty “Congratulations” to our great city.  Check out this link:  Forbes names Dallas #2 in their list of Best U.S. Shopping Cities!

Rock on, Sisters! 🙂

MsMona