quality vs. quantity

She DIY what????!!!

2014-09-23T12:27:00.000-07:00

Hey guys!!!
I know, I know.... you are wondering where the HECK I have been?
Short answer: WORKING!!!!
BUT, I am back and I wanted to share with you guys as I embark on turning my drab townhome into an oasis, a utopia, a shrine to me :)
My plan is to use the same principles of twenty and some change and weekly take on a project that will help me transform my place.
I will share before and after photos and take a video of my weekend projects.

Check out my pinterest pins because that's where most of my ideas are coming from.

Ok, please help me channel my DIY spirit because I am going to need it.

Lots of love,

20nsomechange

Top 5 Christmas gifts for a Girly Girl

2013-11-26T11:32:00.001-08:00

Top 5 Christmas gifts for a Girly Girl by n-some-change featuring Cynthia Rowley

Boohoo zipper purse
boohoo.com

Cynthia Rowley tech accessory
cynthiarowley.com

Loop scarve
scarves.net

Black beanie hat
$16 - bankfashion.co.uk

BHCosmetics palette eyeshadow
bhcosmetics.com

Wait, What???

2013-07-10T11:29:00.001-07:00

Ok, so let me answer your first question. "Where have you been?"
Sorry guys, I have been on a hiatus filled with moving, new relationship and a lot of other stuff that doesn't matter. With that said I AM BACK!
Thank you all for moving 20nsomechange up to the number one spot in searches and I am so proud to say the views are through the roof.
Just a year ago I started this blog not knowing what the outcome would be but now that I know you love me and I love you, nothing will keep us a part.

Stay tuned for 3 new posts this week and a video on Friday on my lovely Youtube channel

Lots of love,

20nsomechange

Get Excited for Your First Kiss

2013-01-31T14:07:00.001-08:00

Hey guys,I am excited to share that starting next month, 20nsomechange will be adding a new facet to the blog.
Monthly, we will review a local boutique, website or fashion designer that fits in with the 20nsomechange movement. If you have a boutique, website or know of a fashion designer that you would like me to review, comment below and I will make it happen.

Check out the first feature under the "Kiss and Tell" tab- February 23, 2013!

XOXO,

20nsomechange

Work It

2013-01-30T13:22:00.001-08:00

Anyone that knows me, knows I love to wear a scarf year round! It is the best accessory known to man (or woman) as far as I am concerned.

So it amazes me every time someone says they don't know how to pair a scarf with their everyday look. Trust me, it is not difficult at all. Lets take a work look...

This look, as is, is functional, trendy and professional. But it could be way better...

With the additional of a gold plate belt, multicolor infinity scarf and a statement bracelet, this look can go from Monday morning drab to Friday afternoon fab.

Make sure you to put one accessory on that doesn't match, just to mix it up. You'll be surprised, what you think won't work with the look will be the piece that pulls it all together... Just look at the Coach bracelet that I chose.

Work It- Pt 2 by n-some-change featuring a damsel in this dress

Aubin will
$41 - aubinandwills.com

Damsel in a Dress damsel in this dress
$140 - houseoffraser.co.uk

Miss Selfridge bow wedge
missselfridge.com

Luella color block handbag
boohoo.com

Coach bracelet
coach.com

ASOS metallic belt
asos.com

David Young round scarve

nordstrom.com

Trader Joe's Treasure

2013-01-30T12:37:00.001-08:00

Hey guys! So I have been on the journey to completely natural hair for over two years. I will say, though there are challenging moments, it is the best thing you can do for your hair. A while back, my hair stylist asked me if I was going to turn into "one of those" clients that only used organic products once I became fully natural and I quickly responded no.

Don't get me wrong, organic products are great but most are over priced and overrated. However, every now and then, you can find a great product that your hair loves and that is wallet friendly.

Trader Joe's Tingle Tea Tree Shampoo is the perfect example. For around $3.00, this product leaves my hair clean and smelling great! The tea tree acts as a clarifying agent which cleanses the scalp with a menthol-like feel. Have you ever had a strong peppermint that opened your sinuses? That's what your head feels like after one use.

This sulfate-free product isn't just for African Americans or people who have coarse hair. Anyone who has dry scalp or just wants a shampoo that leaves their hair feeling thoroughly clean should give this product a try.

Thankful Shopping

2012-11-12T08:58:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to take a moment and thank all my readers for supporting this blog! It hasn't been six months since I started 20nsomechange and because of all of you, it is a success.

Please keep reading and commenting and I promise to keep providing good content. This Thanksgiving, I challenge each of you to take $20 that you would spend on yourself and buy something for someone else. It can be a child in need, a relative or just donate to a local charity. I promise it will be more rewarding than anything you could purchase for yourself.

Thanks again everyone and stay tuned... once I hit 2,000 views I am going to do a giveaway :)

OOTD-Denim at work?

2012-10-29T07:10:00.001-07:00

I know, I know- its been weeks but I am back and in full effect :)

As the season's begin to change, my fashion persona adjusts and right now I am really into the idea of a denim trouser pant but I wonder if it is appropriate for work outside of "casual Friday?"

In my work environment, you can see people dressed in everything from a suit and tie to yoga pants and basketball shorts. But some still argue that denim should be reserved solely for outside of work... I disagree but with parameters.

Depending on how you pair the trousers, you can accomplish a polished work look that draws minimal attention to the fact that you are wearing denim.

Try pairing the pant with a tailored blouse or blazer with a pop of color and you are good to go. Today, I am wearing:

Dana Buchanan denim trousers (Kohl's, $27.00- had a coupon)
Mint green studded tank (Old Navy, $5.00)
Green and Navy cardigan(Old Navy, $2.00-thrift store find!)
Cheetah print scarf (Old Navy, $10.00)
BCBG tan wedges (Ross, $30.00)

Animal Attraction- Guest Writer Edition

2012-09-21T10:56:00.001-07:00

Hey guys,

Here's a post from guest writer L. Mack, who is an expert at the $20 challenge... Enjoy!!!

I am a shoe fanatic with a profound love for round toe, stilettos that make a statement! While taking advantage of a Super Sale at Talbots Outlet store, I felt a need to peruse the shoe section, although I am typically not a, fan of there shoe style. As my eyes traced the silhouettes of all the shoes, it was drawn to a pair of loner, leopard print stilettos. Regular price of the shoes was $169.00, I paid $17.60.

The shoes are comfortable, and when paired with a red A line dress and gold accessories, the shoes POP!

If I were a boy...

2012-09-17T08:19:00.001-07:00

What would you wear if you were a guy? Would you go for the most comfortable outfit you could find or the most trendy???

Well ladies, we will never live a day as a man but that doesn't mean you can't raid your boyfriend, brother or dad's closet for great ideas and accessories.

I happen to love fitted hats and this simple look below marries uber-feminine with my love of hats. First off, you can not go wrong with an NYC hat (haters, sit down!) but to pair it with a flattering denim dress and boots creates a look I like to call, "Urban Feminist."

Urban Feminist by n-some-change featuring a long sleeve t shirt dress

Long sleeve t shirt dress
topshop.com

Madewell mid calf suede boots
madewell.com

New Era embroidered baseball hat
$41 - jdsports.co.uk

Fashion Week Designer Pick- Jason Wu

2012-09-12T07:50:00.001-07:00

Since I wasn't able to go to New York for fashion week, I watched every minute I could on TV and Jason Wu's collection has been in my mind every since I saw it.

The man truly understands me... OK, well my style at least. His collection is a combination of leather and lace but with taste- who wouldn't love that?

I read on a fellow blog his inspiration was 50 Shades of Gray- symbolizing the struggle with the prim and proper vs. the edgier and risky sides of every woman.

Here are my top 5 looks from his show including the finale gown.

The trends to embrace from this collection are:

Mixing fabrics and prints- don't be afraid to not match your shirt and shoes.
Sheer is not going anywhere- get over it and buy a sheer top, they come in so many styles you can find one that fits your body and taste.
Try leather in another form other than a leather jacket. I've seen a few leather dresses which is a great alternative to a leather pant (PLEASE NOTE: leather pants ARE NOT for everyone!)
Lace it up! Every woman has a lace skirt or top in their closet that they overlook but Spring will be time to bring it out. Not sure how... take your time and try it different ways. We have a while until Spring anyway.

Hot Chocolate

2012-09-03T08:49:00.001-07:00

Ok guys, I am not a makeup expert and I intentionally never write posts about makeup. However, Polyvore challenged participants to come up with a mood board featuring makeup and earrings- cool, right?

I haven't done a mood board since my undergrad days in fashion design class but here is my attempt... I call this piece "Hot Chocolate."

Hot Chocolate by n-some-change featuring hoop earrings

Kendra scott jewelry
kendrascott.com

Chandelier earrings
pinkmascara.com

Adia Kibur hoop earrings
metroparkusa.com

Sue Devitt foundation
barneys.com

Stila cheek bronzer
stilacosmetics.com

Shiseido cream eyeshadow
lordandtaylor.com

How do you wear your Brahmin?

2012-09-03T08:22:00.001-07:00

Hey guys! Check out this fall look I put together to support my favorite bag of the moment-Brahmin. Though these bags are WAY over the 20nsomechange budget, affordable versions can be found anywhere. Look out for my remake of this look coming soon. :)

Also, all you Polyvore fans, support me in the Brahmin contest for a trip to the Brahmin factory and to get a bag named after me... Doesn't the Michelle Nicole sound like the perfect bag???

How do you wear your Brahmin? by n-some-change featuring platform booties

Pattern shirt
sheinside.com

Felder Felder skater skirt
$635 - stylemetv.com

C Label platform booties
endless.com

Brahmin genuine leather handbag
brahmin.com

Brahmin hobo shoulder bag
brahmin.com

Brahmin bag
brahmin.com

Yellow gold necklace
$33 - blanco.com

Le Metier de Beaute neon pink nail polish
neimanmarcus.com

Fall Trend Picks- Coral Love

2012-08-14T06:51:00.002-07:00

This fall, there are 5 trends that I have my eye on. Though the compilation below is made of up of high end merchandise, there are several more affordable ways to pull off this look. Don't trust me? Tune into the 20nsomechange YouTube channel next week for my replica.

Coral Love by n-some-change featuring a peter pan shirt

Peter pan shirt
inlovewithfashion.com

Skinny leg jeans
$22 - owntherunway.com

Christian Louboutin spiked pumps
christianlouboutin.com

Hermès handbag
fashion.1stdibs.com

Jacqueline Clarke oversized cocktail ring
wolfandbadger.com

This fall my top 5 merchandise picks are:

Colored denim
Blazers
Studded pumps- or studded anything for that matter
Statement jewelry
satchel handbags

Fall Theme pick:
Feminine- You can never go wrong playing up your X chromosomes!

Color Choice:
Coral!!! This color looks great on everyone's skin tone and is flattering. Remember- this fall, coral is the new black.

Shopping in a Familiar Land

2012-07-31T10:46:00.003-07:00

Your closet can be the best store you've ever been in, if you work it right. Last Saturday, I decided- last minute- to go to an all-white yacht party with my best friend. With less than 3 hours to spare, I had to find an outfit, style my hair, take a nap, walk my dog and get to her house. Overwhelmed doesn't begin to describe how I felt. For me, the issue was the color. White is not a color that I gravitate towards, because like most people, I can be a little messy (don't judge me.)

My first instinct was to take to the stores: Kohls, TJ Maxx, Target, etc. but when I got out and started looking at my options, I started to consider a night at home with my dog and how nice that might be. My options were short and tight or long and tight- neither of which were the look I was going for. Then, it hit me... I don't own a white dress but I could "make one." Yes, I can sew but that's not what I meant. Out of the five white items I own, I could piece them together to make a seamless look.

I ran home and began to search through the mounds of clothes on the floor of my closet (don't judge me.) After a little digging, I found the look!

The three elements in this look are:

A white romper (purchased in 2010 at TJ Maxx, $19.99)
A white and grey gathered skirt (purchased in 2007 at Gap, $10)
A white hook belt (purchased in 2010 and I am not sure where or how much)

Paired with some white wedge sandals, I was ready to head out for a night of fun.

This look was so comfortable that I wore the skirt and belt with a pink 3/4 length shirt to work.

These looks fit into the uber-feminine trend I am doing for the summer season.

High-waisted gathered skirts minimize your hips and accentuate the waist line. I am a huge fan of a sweetheart neckline on a strapless top because it makes your chest look fuller and narrows broad shoulders.

So, the next time you are in a fashion crisis, take a step back and then two steps forward- into your closet!

Seasonista Confessions

2012-07-10T07:33:00.000-07:00

con·fes·sion

[ kən fésh'n ]

admission of wrongdoing: an admission of having done something wrong or embarrassing
admission of guilt: a voluntary written or verbal statement admitting the commission of a crime
open acknowledgment of feelings: a profession of emotions or beliefs such as love, loyalty, or faith

Synonyms: admission, concession, revelation, acknowledgment

Hello, my name is Michelle... and I am a Seasonista...

No one ever said being a fashionista would be easy, but hey someone has to do it. When you ask most people what their favorite season is, some will say summer because of the warm sun and sandy beaches or fall because of the beautiful trees and crisp air. But when you ask a true fashionista her or his favorite season, most will say "Sale Season." As each season draws to a close and another begins, the 'seasonista' in side of me begins to awaken. Something about seeing the first price marked through or covered by a yellow sticker, brings a smile to my face.

However, please note not every sale is worth it but with a little time and a keen eye, you can find treasures. Shopping off season is a great way to purchase items that you really want but normally could not afford. Take my pick of the week for example- blazers are very on trend and are a great transition from work to party item. The blazer below is from Marshalls, orginially $39.99 but marked down to $16.99. (that's right- under the $20 and some change budget!!!)

Another great thing about shopping off season is that you can try looks that you have been thinking about without the pressure of time. What do I mean? Think about this: you run out to the store for a cute blazer to wear on your first date with- well that doesn't matter- but you are unsure if blazers are for you. Now that it is crunch time, you rarely end up pulling off the great look idea that you envision. But if you shop off season, you can try the blazer look now and be ready for drinks with "Mr. Wonderful" when the moment arrives.

P.S. I know most of you are waiting for pix of the color block dress... I will put those up next week, when I discuss accessories :)

Fashion > Food

2012-06-28T09:34:00.000-07:00

To be or not to be, that is the question... or maybe not. To be fashionable is a subjective lifestyle. Honestly, that is the best part about shopping- I may feel like a classic beauty look in an A-line dress or boho-chic in a drapey sundress.

The real question is how far will you go to be fashionable? Are groceries more important than a pair of Tory Burch flats? I'm sure we have all had that moment when we are in the aisle of our favorite store with an arm filled with clothes and in the other hand; the cell phone to calculate if and how to afford it. At that moment, we all become instantaneous mathematician, ready to solve the most complex algorithms. At that moment, begins what I like to call, "lets make a deal." I tell myself how now would be the perfect time to start that diet that I've been putting off or how packing a sandwich and a salad for three weeks is actually very tasty.

Now I know this sounds ridiculous to some, but this is the reality of $20 and some change. I challenge everyone the next time you find yourself playing "lets make a deal" to lay each item out and think through these three questions:

Where you are going to wear it and is it relative (Is this going to sit in the bag for a month?)
Who are you trying to be? (Is this a new look that you are on the fence about?)

Do you have what you need to pull it off? (every purchase needs help, can you provide that?)

My $20 and some change purchase of the week is from T.J. Maxx. Now let me say, I rarely go to T.J Maxx but every now and then they surprise me

This cute mustard and hunter green color block dress is very on trend for the season and at a whopping $29.99, I stayed true to the mission! Stay tuned for pictures of how I wore it- it's extremely flattering on...

A jerk once said...

2012-06-20T11:14:00.003-07:00

A jerk I was dating once said to me, "remember its quality over quantity, Michelle." Long after I stopped dating him, that statement still echoes in my mind. Love and fashion are the two things that stop my heart. A guy saying I love you and a brand new Louis Vuitton bag give my same heart papiltations. But my lack of love and honestly, lack of funds have led me to date and shop "on a budget." For that reason alone, I've decided to blog. This blog is not about trips to Neimans or Nordstrom, no, but blogs about the everyday woman with less than $50 to spend on herself but wants to always look flawless.

No more shopping sprees, now I spend $20 a week on myself and hope for the best. Ironically, I've enjoyed spending $20 and some change way more than hundreds. Through the course of this blog, I will post my purchase(s), the cost and a picture of how I wear it and who knows... some outfits might actually be for a date. Lets cross our fingers and see how this goes!