So Frugalicious

Shameless Self Promotion

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 14:33:00 +0000

Happy Friday everyone! If you are doing some online shopping today, I wanted to let you know that MoxieBee has every item 50% off! We need to make room for awesome new fall items so we're selling great pieces for lower prices. Here are a couple of gorgeous outfits- one for play and one for work.

Chartreuse Halter Dress, Maja Hoop Earrings and Pewter Snakeskin Wedges

GET THIS ENTIRE LOOK FOR ONLY $42.00

Purple Circle Tie-Neck Halter Top, Black Pencil Skirt, Black Patent Pumps, and Ivory Clutch

GET THIS ENTIRE LOOK FOR ONLY $63.00

Mad About Plaid

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 22:15:00 +0000

Is it just me, or do you get giddy when you go shopping right now? I absolutely love fall fashion. The most frustrating part is living in Texas because I'm already stocking my closet with pieces that I won't be able to wear until late October.

I've been shopping way to much lately, and there are definitely some clear fall trends. I've noticed skinny belts, headbands, feathers, wide-legged pants, plum and mustard yellow colors, bootie shoes, ruffled blouses, florals, cardigans, animal print, and of course, plaid. The preppy look is definitely in! Here are a few plaid pieces that I am adding to my frugalicious collection. You can use plaid as an accessory or go all out with a trench. Happy fall shopping!

Yellow Plaid Headband- $2.80

Plaid Scarf- $8.80

Ruffled Plaid Blouse with Skinny Belt- $19.80

Purple and Black Plaid Trench- $31.49

Go Internationa l R ed Plaid Jumper- $39.99- Shocking, but the Target pic doesn't do it justice. It's a grown-up twist on a school girl plaid jumper.

Plaid Blazer- $39.99

Don't Shop On a Full Stomach

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 01:59:00 +0000

It's both a blessing and a curse that my office is across the street from The Galleria Mall in Dallas. An innocent lunch with co-workers can easily turn into a shopping spree. I had an indulgent lunch on Friday and I needed to walk it off. I also needed to keep my spending to a minimum so I was glad to see all of my frugalicious favorites in one place- Old Navy, Payless, Forever 21, and Sephora.

Payless had some very cool black patent short boots by Alice + Olivia, but I can't find them online yet. I will keep you posted.

Navy Butterfly Cardigan- $25.00 On Sale- I'm not a butterfly person, but I think this cardigan can spice up a work outfit or look great with jeans on the weekend.

Color Block Bag- $29.50- Looks expensive and will go with everything!

Floral Woven Top- $19.80- I love all of the Mad Men inspired fashion right now, and this floral print is something Betty Draper would have in her closet.

Black and White Floral Trench- $29.80- I must have been in a floral print mood on Friday. I couldn't pass up this fabulous jacket! I know that the black and white will go with everything, and they also have a mustard color that is very cool.

Ojon Rub-Out Dry Shampoo- $10.00- Sephora has been overtaken by dry shampoo collections. I always sample them to figure out which one is best, but I have never actually made the purchase because they are pricey and I like my baby powder trick. On Friday, I found out that Ojon dry shampoo, which I had been scoping out, offered a $10 travel size. I decided to purchase it for my bag because there are times when I want to freshen up after work, and the powder can be a bit messy. I must say, I really loved this stuff. It goes on like a spray so it doesn't get everywhere, gives my hair awesome volume, and it smells divine. It is a great touch up between work and a night out.

TGIF and BOGO

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:07:00 +0000

I know you all may get tired of my Payless posts, but I am continually impressed with their shoes. Plus, I wear a 5 1/2 and they never fail me when it comes to having the smaller sizes.

I left my favorite pair of white pumps in a hotel room last month. I always forget something! I found this gorgeous replacement pair online (on sale last week for only $10.00). When they arrived, the color was more bone than white so I was a little disappointed. However, I have worn the pumps almost every day this week. It seems like they go with everything, and they are so comfortable!

I also fell in love with some silver Steven heels at Nordstrom last weekend. I didn't buy them because the price tag was $129.00! Though I don't love these gladiator heels quite as much, they are just perfect with the $19.99 price tag. I don't have to justify a cost per wear breakdown for these:) They really look expensive too- not quite as shiny as they look in the picture.

With BOGO going on right now, you can buy one and get the other free. I have been shipping to store to get free shipping. Have a great weekend!

In Short...

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 01:06:00 +0000

I got on oldnavy.com to do my weekly deal surfing, and I was absolutely delighted to find a new petite section! I know that all of you don't care about petites, but I'm thrilled that more stores are offering petite, tall, and plus size options since once size does not fit all. I have been spending more at Gap and Banana to find petites, but now I can get clothes that fit and save money.

I don't rely on Old Navy for my fashion forward options, but they offer great pieces for work. Here are a few items that I added to my cart. They are all available in regular and tall sizes as well.

Orange Tank- $12.50

Ruffle Polo- $15.00

3/4 Sleeve Belted Dress - $29.50

Yellow Organza Dress- $34.50

Suede Pumps- $20.50

When I checked out, I used my Banana Repubic card and saved 20% on my order and got Free Shipping. I'm digging this 4 stores in 1 payment set-up!

My Birthday Suit

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 22:13:00 +0000

I thought life post wedding would slow down, but it's still crazy! Luckily I got a chance to relax and have some fun last Saturday. It was my favorite holiday- my birthday! My husband organized a fun outing at a dance club in Dallas, and I needed the right outfit to welcome my 28th year. I also wanted to wear something sexy to make myself feel younger.

I took a risk and wore this fabulous blue knit dress from Forever 21. I don't normally pull off a plunging neckline, but it was surprisingly flattering. It was only $19.80, which is good since I may be too old for this at 29:) I ordered the dress online, and it was much more beautiful in person. It looks expensive!

I dressed it up with dangling gold earrings and bright blue patent shoes. And since I was feeling risky, I wore bright yellow nail polish. There were definitely mixed reviews, but the yellow popped next to the blue. When I was trying to find the "Need Sunglasses" color online for this post, I read that it might be the next big color. This may be bad news for my husband, who thought the polish made my feet look like corn on the cob:) It's not great for an everyday look, but I loved it for a special occasion!

Heat Wave

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:35:00 +0000

As you can tell from many of my posts, I'm a bit obsessed with eye make-up. I love trying new mascara, eye shadow, and eye liner. I haven't spent much time experimenting with eyelash curlers, but I was intrigued by the new Revlon gentle heat lash curler. Rather than crimping and pinching your lashes with a regular curler. this tool uses light heat to lift your lashes.

While you apply your mascara, allow the curler to heat up for 20 seconds. Then comb your lashes upward until you get the lift you want. I've been using the curler for a week now, and I love it! I purchased the product at Walgreen's for $9.99, but I can't find it anywhere online. I'm sure it will be available everywhere soon. If you don't want to spend the money and buy the AAA battery required, you can heat your regular curler up with your hair dryer.

The curler has been a perfect partner to a couple of great products that I have added to my collection. You are probably tired of my mascara posts, but I couldn't pass up a review on new Collosal Volum' Express from Maybelline. I seriously love this stuff! I'm always looking for a mascara that gives me volume because my lashes are long but not full. This new addition to the Volum' Express line has a big brush and collagen formula that plumps your lashes. I found it to give serious volume without clumping. The Glam Black shade is intense and definitely makes your eyes pop. And it really does wash off much easier than other mascaras I have tried. I think it puts the Cover Girl Lash Blast mascara to shame. I even love the neon yellow and purple packaging. Sadly, I could not find this online either! I bought mine at Walgreen's for around $7.00.

I also wanted to give a quick shout out to Bobbi Brown's long-wear gel eyeliner, which you actually can buy online. Granted, this is not super frugalicious at $19.00, but I think it's worth the money. I always found my eyeliner to wear off by the end of the day. The Bobbi Brown eyeliner is easy to apply (though I do recommend the ultra fine eyeliner brush for $22.00). Once applied, it seriously does not come off until you wash it off. I've been using it for one month, and I have barely made a dent in it. The cost per wear will be worth it because the product will last for months. The Bobbi Brown consultant recommended that I wear the Espresso Ink shade. I usually wear black, but the eyeliner is pretty intense so the dark brown shade works. I'm feeling good about my new look with these products!

Blades of Glory

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0000

I've tried several women's razors in my day. I've always found shaving to be more painful and not as close with women's razors so I basically gave up. I always go back to my Gilette Mach 3 or Fusion to get a close shave. However, I was recently given the Schick Quattro for Women and I am putting my Gilette Fusion aside.

The razor is very gentle to use, but it shaves as well as my men's razor. It's much better for grooming the bikini area because of the pivoting head and the conditioning strips with aloe and duo-vitamin. It's not painful like other razors I have tried. I haven't nicked my skin once. The packaging says that it is long lasting smoothness so you can skip a day, but I did not find that to be true. While I still have to shave every day, I'm happy with the shaving experience as part of my daily routine.

The razors aren't cheap at $9.99 for 4 replacement cartridges, but I will save around $5 compared to Gilette Fusion. I would definitely recommend making the switch if you are in the market for a new razor. If you aren't impressed, I just noticed the Schick disclaimer on drugstore.com. "Schick® Quattro™ is unconditionally guaranteed. If you are dissatisfied, call 1-800-Shavers and Schick will replace it free of charge or refund your full purchase price." That's good to know!

Little Black Sundress

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 23:32:00 +0000

Hello everyone. I hope you all had a great 4th of July! I was able to check out fireworks after taking a break for a few years, and I was so impressed. Fireworks have upgraded! One thing that hasn't changed is the crazy Texas heat. I continue to add more summer dresses to my wardrobe, and I wear them for every occasion. Lately I am stocking up on casual day dresses because jeans on the weekend are out of the question.

I was excited to find this little black linen dress at Old Navy this weekend. It looks expensive, but it was only $12.99 on sale! I was bummed that I was going to have to alter the straps, and then I realized that I could adjust them. Bonus! I paired the dress with these little black wedges from Target, which have made many appearances with my outfits this summer. They are so comfortable, and they give me a little lift. Both pictures don't do these pieces justice.

Here are some other casual dresses that I'm digging...

Black Shift Dress- $20.00 on Sale at Old Navy

Knit Halter Dress- $24.50 at Old Navy

Red sundress- $24.80 from Forever 21 (great dress for going out)

Blue Cotton Pocket Dress- $30.00 from MoxieBee

Say "I Do" to Volume Couture

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 01:13:00 +0000

Helloooooooooo ladies! I'm back with a combined income and ready to shop:) A lot has happened in the last month. The wedding and honeymoon were absolutely perfect. Now I'm enjoying life as a newlywed with a new apartment full of wedding gifts and a much larger closet! Rest assured that I tested many fabulous products during my time away from blogging, and I can't wait to share them with you.

First, I want to give a small wedding update for those of you that requested pics. My amazing photographer, Tommie Huffman, has posted a sneak peak on her blog. I especially loved the faux photo booth that Tommie and I set up with props- so much fun! My husband and I learned the last dance from Dirty Dancing as our last dance of the wedding. Complete with the speech, lift, and wedding party back-up dancers, I think we pulled it off. The lighting isn't great, but you can check out the dance on You Tube.

While there wasn't much about the wedding that was frugalicious, I made sure to represent with my shoes. Underneath all that tulle, there were some gorgeous $39.99 ivory satin Payless pumps and the handbag I carried at my senior year prom. Who needs Manolo Blahniks when no one can see them? My Payless shoes were so comfortable that I never changed into the hideous bridal flip flops I brought for back-up. Thanks again to Tommie for this shot!

The last piece of wedding make-up I purchased was mascara. I decided to splurge on Diorshow since it was a special occasion. I used it the night before at the rehearsal dinner, and I was not impressed. It wasn't awful, but I've seen my lashes look better, and I was a perfectionist bride.

I opted to use Max Factor's Volume Couture mascara for $6.99 instead, and I think I made a wise choice. I first used the mascara when I borrowed it from my mom, and mother knows best. It gives me the right amount of volume without flaking, and there are zero clumps. I used the waterproof version and it did not smear after many a tears. I shouldn't have tried to leave my frugalicious product roots behind on such a big day. I'm glad I came to my senses. I now have a new favorite mascara, until next week anyway:)

I'll be back with more posts soon. I missed you guys. Have a great week!

Going to the Chapel...

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Mon, 26 May 2008 15:19:00 +0000

Well ladies, it's that time! I'm heading to San Angelo this week to become Mrs. Lieberman. I can't believe how quickly the time has passed, but I don't want to wait another minute to marry my amazing fiance! I'll be back post honeymoon to share new frugalicious finds, and maybe a few wedding pics too:) I'll have more spare time so I'll be able to shop and write more often.

If you are attending weddings this summer, check out our perfect cocktail dresses at MoxieBee.com! These are not frugalicious, but they are priced great for quality, unique cocktail dresses.

Corral Chiffon- $68.00
Cobalt Blue with Gemstones- $68.00

Have a great week!

Target.com- Bad Pics, Great Pieces!

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Mon, 19 May 2008 15:44:00 +0000

I moved this weekend and did a massive clean-up of my closet. Of course, I had to buy new items to fill the void when I was picking up some necessities at Target. I found some muted gold sandals and the cutest Rogan for Target black denim mini to add to my wardrobe. Combined, the total bill was $50.00.

Also, this Gryson oversized clutch is not frugalicious at $44.99, but I can't wait for it to go on sale!

I have to say this again. Target has done a tremendous job of building their brand on tv, but I'm baffled by the quality of their website. I get so excited to write about my new Target purchases, but I am always disappointed with the images. You will have to trust me on the sandals and skirt.

Polish Your Pout

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Tue, 13 May 2008 15:37:00 +0000

I recently started getting facials to get my skin in prime wedding condition. I told my esthetician that I was very concerned about getting my lips in shape. I picked up a new habit of lip biting when I quit biting my nails:( She recommended Murad's Soothing Skin and Lip Care to repair the mess I had created. Murad explains that product provides immediate relief by rejuvenating and conditioning dry, cracked, chapped lips, sealing in long lasting moisture and gently smoothing and exfoliating. After a few months of use, I have found that this product delivers!

Aside from repair, I love the shine it provides! While it doesn't feel like lip gloss, it does have a beautiful glow. I use this in place of my lip gloss when I need lip therapy and want a natural look. Therapy doesn't come at a hefty price because this $14.00 tube will last over multiple sessions.

Shopping for Every Occasion

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:11:00 +0000

Hello everyone! I cannot believe that my last post was on April 4. Time has been flying by. I traveled every weekend in April, but now I am back in Dallas until I leave for the wedding 4 weeks from today:)

I've been shopping quite a bit, searching for the perfect outfits to fit all wedding events. I went to San Francisco a few weeks ago, and I was in need of a spring scarf. All of my scarfs were dark and heavy. I paid $14.50 for this beautiful striped scarf at Old Navy, and it paid for itself during the 3 day weekend. It looked great with bright spring colors and my white blazer. I love this scarf and wish I could still wear it in Texas- a little too hot though.

I also found a great white skirt and top at Banana Republic (pricing to remain private:)). I loved the white wedges displayed with the outfit at Banana, but they were $105. I walked over to trusty Payless and found some perfect pumps. I loved them so much that I bought the tan pair too. They look better in person!

It's BOGO so if you need another pair, I love these yellow and white striped espadrilles for $19.99!

I just ordered this gorgeous top for $22.80 at Forever21.com to wear with a white skirt to my bridal luncheon. The coral color will pop, and I can wear my new white shoes with the outfit.

And I'm still debating on which MoxieBee piece to wear to our brunch. We have several shipments on the way so I am anxiously awaiting our new pieces. MoxieBee is having its first sale this week- 20% off everything! If you have been waiting to check us out, now is your chance.

I'll try to write again next week. I'm moving in two weeks (I know I am insane) so I'll be spending my nights cleaning out my closet. Have a great rest of the week.

Sundress for Less

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:30:00 +0000

I'm on a dress kick! It's getting warm and dresses are perfect for looking cute on steamy summer days. I recently came across this great Johnny Was Folk Dress at Bloomingdales.com. I would wear this dress every weekend during the warm spring and summer. It looks so comfortable. Unfortunately, $269 is a bit out of my price range for a casual dress:)

Luckily, there's a similar version on Chadwicks.com, on sale for only $29. It doesn't have every detail from the $269 version, but it will certainly do the trick. There are four colors to choose from too...love the dark red multi!

Mediterranean Smoothie

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 19:58:00 +0000

I have little patience for extracurricular grooming. I am great with the basics...just don't really go above and beyond with a 5-step skincare routine or weekly pedicures:)

However, I have a new obsession with my arms looking their best in my wedding dress so I committed to exfoliate at least 3 times a week to get rid of any bumps. A friend gave me Boots Mediterranean Body Scrub for a gift a year ago, and I decided to make it part of my routine.

After only a few uses, I can say that this stuff is amazing! I can't remember my arms ever feeling this smooth! I'm even asking other people to touch them and feel the smoothness;) I love the smell of the almond, olive, and pistachio mixture too.

I'm definitely taking the time to include this step in my shower schedule. I won't mind spending $9.99 to buy this for myself when I run out of scrub, but 13.5 oz should last a long time.

Hello Yellow

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 15:47:00 +0000

Hi ladies! I'm sorry for the lack of posts lately. I stay up late working on things like wedding programs and slideshows now so there is less time for fun blogging. If you want to get new posts emailed to you instead of checking the site, please sign up to receive emails. I'm aiming to write at least one post every week.

It's definitely spring time in Dallas. The weather is perfect, and you can't help buy smile when you step outside. Sunshine and happy spring days make me want to wear yellow. I'm glad that it is big again this spring. Here are some great yellow pieces from Old Navy, MoxieBee and Forever 21.

I realized that I had not told you gals about free shipping at MoxieBee.com this week! We are offering free shipping through Saturday when you enter the code FREEBEE at checkout. The discount will be applied to your order on the confirmation page. Happy shopping!

Bamboo Earrings- On Sale for $5.25 at Old Navy

Yellow Patent Slides- On Sale for $8.70 from Old Navy

Yellow Diamond Cut Beaded Hoops- $14.00 from MoxieBee

Yellow Envelope Clutch- $18.00 from MoxieBee

Yellow Ruffle Shirt- $18.90 from Forever 21

Yellow Flutter Sleeve Dress- $56.00 from MoxieBee- I know it's not less than $25.00, but I love this dress!

It's Alright to Be Little Bitty

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 02:08:00 +0000

I have an offsite for work next week, and we were asked to pick a theme song. "New Shoes" by Paolo Nutini was taken, I decided to go with Alan Jackson's "Little Bitty" since I'm a whopping 5' 0". While I don't always love being petite (e.g. when I'm standing at the back of a concert), it's definitely a big part of who I am.

When I was younger, my mom would always tell me to shop in the petite section, which was only available at big department stores. Unfortunately, the clothes were skewed at an older age group. But now, brands have taken note and started offering fashionable options for petites. The big brands discovered new segments ready to spend money on clothes that fit! Women looking for petite, plus size, tall, and maternity can all find pieces that suit their figures.

I usually shop for petite pieces when I need pants, skirts or a dresses because I save money on alterations. I've recently been shopping for something to wear for Easter and bridal showers. Here are my favorite finds that won't break the bank.

Floral Skirt- On Sale for $24.99 from JCPenney

Black Sheath Dress with White Piping- On Sale for $49.99 at Ann Taylor Loft= A great classic.

Brown and Lime Ribbon Dress- $60.00 at JCPenney

Lavender Shirt Dress- On Sale for $33.99 at Gap

If you need a petite or tall suit, check out New York & Company for a variety of options!

The Look for Less

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 03:01:00 +0000

I had not heard about the Arizona brand in a long time, but I was recently contacted by their PR rep with a special discount for readers so I checked out their site. They have stepped it up a notch in the style department, and the prices are fantastic! While it does skew younger, it's a great option for inexpensive basics.

Check out their interpretation of the Jessica Simpson look. Pair their button-up with flare jeans and the red bag from Forever 21 that I wrote about on Sunday, and you've got celebrity style for under $100. This is perfect for a casual weekend look.

Save $10 at azjeans.com with the code AZJWM1 until April 2!

The Perfect Dress

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 23:44:00 +0000

When I was in New York last September, I purchased the most amazing dress! It was bright yellow and black with a vintage look, and I tried to write about it when I got back. Unfortunately, it was out of stock online so I could not share it with the frugalicious readers.

I have worn the dress several times, and I have gotten more compliments than any other piece I own. It looks super expensive so people are shocked when they find out it is from Forever 21. I loved it so much that I wore it out on my engagement night.

I took a weekend trip to Forever 21 today, and I was thrilled to see the dress back in-store. While they don't have the bright yellow version, the red and teal options were striking.

For only $27.80, you can get buy a dress that you can rely on for special nights out on the town-even weddings. Pair it with black patent pumps and a great black clutch for a flawless look (shameless plug for MoxieBee).

While you are on forever21.com, check out the cute new bags they have in stock! I love the bright red tote!

Zipper Tote- $32.80

Red Satchel- $29.80

A Few of My Favorite Things

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 14:54:00 +0000

Hello everyone! I figured I would close out the week by showcasing my favorite items on MoxieBee.com. You have no idea how hard it is to look at these pieces daily and not be able to purchase them! The pictures really don't do them justice. I have a special place in my heart for many of the items, but I have picked the top 10 that I would buy if I didn't have to save the inventory for all of you;) They aren't all under $25.00, but they are still affordable. We have also addressed the red trend on our MoxieBee blog. I'll be back with new posts next week- non MoxieBee related, I promise! Have a great weekend.

Lime Green Maha Hoop Earrings- $12.00- Lime green is super hot for spring. If you were burned by 80's fashion and can't go all out with lime green, use it as an accent color.

Silver Grape Leaf Earrings- $14.00- These are so light and dainty, and they will go with everything.

Gold Filigree Beaded Earrings- $18.00- I won't name any names, but other boutiques sell this Bijoux Luck brand for a much higher price. Filigree is bigger than ever, and the coral bead adds a nice twist to a basic.

Gold Bee Pendant Necklace by Coley Designs- $24.00- I actually do own this one! Nicole of Coley Designs created this piece exclusively for MoxieBee. I pretty much wear it every day, and I always get compliments on it.

Ivory Snakeskin Clutch- $30.00- I was in love with this bag from the start. It looks super expensive! The ivory color is stunning, and the snakeskin is very soft. It almost feels vintage.

White Short Jacket- $34.00- This is the perfect piece to transition from winter into spring. We just got in a gorgeous black pencil skirt (will be on the site next week), and this jacket looks like it was made to go with the skirt for a chic work look. I'm actually the model in this pic for my friends that keep asking if I'm in any shots:)

Hot Pink Wrap Blouse- $44.00- I have a very girly style, and I love the soft ruffle collar and dramatic wrap. Of course, I'm all about the hot pink for spring.

Denim and White Oversized Bag- $46.00- The nautical trend is big right now, and you can indulge in the trend daily when you carry this bag. The light denim with the patent white piping is a perfect combination.

Grey Satin Dress- $54.00- It's a year of weddings for me, and I could wear this dress to all of them. It shows off curves and has a modern twist on a vintage look.

Black and Cream Cocktail Dress- $65.00- Please, don't buy all of the smalls so I can wear this to my rehearsal dinner. I absolutely adore this dress. It's on trend with the beautiful bow detail on the straps and cream pintucks in the bustline. This would also be perfect for weddings- a staple when you need a great cocktail dress. It looks very expensive in person.

The Big News Is...MoxieBee.com!

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 14:47:00 +0000

My posts have been a little spotty lately. Yes, I have been busy with wedding planning. But, I have been even more preoccupied with a new business adventure!

Over the last year, I have been writing So Frugalicious as an expression of my love for frugal fashion. There were many times when I was searching for the perfect pieces to write about, and they were nowhere to be found. I was often visiting the same sites and digging around for the clothes that were age appropriate. I still found some great buys, but it did take some work.

With an entrepreneurial spirit and apparently a desire to have absolutely no free time:), a fabulous friend and I decided to start an e-commerce business to fill the gaps in the market. We immediately started establishing the gaps we wanted to fill.

1) The clothes targeted at young professionals weren't in line with our paychecks. If we did have money, we wanted to spend it on travel and fun instead of one pair of shoes.
2) Websites never explained how things actually fit so we ended up having too many returns. However, we loved shopping online because our schedules were busy, and we had unpleasant shopping experiences at the inexpensive stores we frequented.
3) We wanted more options of transitional items so we could transform work outfits into night looks to get the most for our money. There was always the great debate between buying a cute top for a date or a standard work shirt.

My partner and I decided to respond to these issues last June when we started development of moxiebee.com, and now the dream has finally become a reality. We have officially launched our website to offer quality, affordable clothes, shoes, and accessories. They aren't all $25 or less (though many are), but we kept the prices as low as possible. In fact, I have seen many of our exact pieces at some Dallas boutiques, and they are charging double. Have no fear- our shoes selection is expanding over the next month:)

MoxieBee is a start-up business, so you can imagine that our budget isn't as fabulous as our clothes. We were only able to launch the site because of our talented friends that built it out of love (thanks Leslie and Ajoy!). Please send this post to as many people as possible to spread the "buzz". I hope you will check out the site and let me know what you think! We also have a blog to spotlight trends met with our MoxieBee pieces.

I will surely plug some MoxieBee items with So Frugalicious, but I will continue to write about many other frugalicious shopping finds and products. Please keep visiting this blog and sending your wonderful comments and discoveries. Thanks so much for your support!

Make Your Do Work For You

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 03:26:00 +0000

Hello frugals! You may have noticed that I'm a bit incognito lately. I am working on a BIG project, and I will have details to share with you all very soon. I think you will be excited with the news. In the meantime, I get by with a little help from guest bloggers. Today's post is brought to you by frugalicious reader, Erin. Read as this product junkie unveils her hair secrets! Many thanks to Erin for sharing her finds.

I’m always in search of hair products that will make my life easier. In the mornings, I find myself taking time to put on my make-up and pick out the perfect accessories for my outfit. All of a sudden there’s 5 minutes left to do something fabulous with my hair, and let’s just say it doesn’t always get there.

At my last visit to the hairdresser I noticed that it looked extra healthy and smooth. I asked him what he had used, and he showed me this fantastic product that he apparently had put in my hair when it was still damp... and I was still indulging in crummy celebrity gossip from OK and US. It’s made by L’Oreal and is part of their professional line, Professionnel TextureLine Hair Mix Supreme Smooth.

I immediately purchased a bottle from him, and he instructed me to put a small amount in damp, towel dried hair. I probably use about a quarter size amount, though he suggested less. (I have thick long hair). This product has been fantastic, I’ve been using it for a month now and there is a huge difference in the manageability of it, as well as the benefit of my hair looking much healthier and smoother. It is also supposed to nourish your hair and protect it from any hair styling tools used in your daily routine. The downside of this product is finding it. On Amazon.com it is priced at $16.99 which is less than my hairdresser sells it for. It goes a long way, so one bottle should last you about 2 months, if not longer.

Two other products that I swear by for my do are much easier to find. I love TRESemme Volumizing Mousse Weightless Body. I put this in my hair after I use the L’Oreal Supreme Smooth. Just follow the directions on the bottle. A couple of dollops combed into the roots and you’re good to go. Blow-dry as usual. It’s cheap, easy to find, and you’ll feel like you should be on the commercial…ooh la la.

My last favorite hair product is also made by TRESemme, Tres Two Hair Spray- Extra Hold. Funny thing about this is that I first used it when my husband and I started dating and I needed to touch-up my hair. He’s used it for years and I’ve finally taken a styling tip from my hubby…see, I listen to your suggestions babe! I’ve used it ever since and even converted some of my friends over. I think you’ll find that it’s a fabulous product, also cheap and easy to find.

I Put My New Shoes On...

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:01:00 +0000

My posts have been sparse this week- not enough hours in the day! I didn't have time to visit all of my favorite sites, but I knew I could count on Forever 21 to fill a shopping void. While I was on their site, I noticed a feature called "Find My Look". If you have trouble putting full outfits together, this could serve as a useful tool. I wasn't a big fan of most of the outfits since the site is geared towards teens, but I did find a couple that I really liked.

Outfit One- Yellow cargo jacket, black cap sleeve dress, gorgeous grey satchel, and black oxford heels

Outfit Two- Aqua knit top, wide legged pants, fan earrings, patent clutch, and oxford heels

While I was checking out the looks, I was really impressed with Forever 21's fabulous shoes for spring. They have a huge variety, and you are in luck if you are into the patent trend. Time to go shopping!

Mandy Pump- $25.80- I love this color combination!

Oxford Heel- $24.80...if you are a bit more adventurous with fashion.

Patent Buckle Flats- $18.80- Smart for work or play.

Diamond Flat Heel- $22.80- You can still be sexy in flats!

Grey Pump- $19.80- Love the scallop detail.

T-Strap Heel- $24.80- A great spin on a classic look.

Blue Platform Heels- $19.80- Striking blue will make an outfit.

Gold Gladiator Sandals- $17.80- Still a big trend this spring.

Shine On

frugalicious@gmail.com (So Frugalicious) — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 04:35:00 +0000

At my weekend trip to the grocery store, I had to check the beauty aisle for new lip gloss. I know I'm pretty stocked up on lip gloss, but I can't resist trying something new. I really wanted to pick up L'Oreal's new Infallible Never Fail lip gloss. It's rumored to be the first long-wearing lipgloss- lasting up to 6 hours and not requiring double applications for color and then the gloss. It wasn't out yet, so I opted to try Maybelline's new Shine Seduction Glossy Lipcolor instead.

I chose shade 630, spiced potion to fit in with the nude lip trend that's still going strong. I was immediately impressed with this gloss. I love that it gives me the shine of a Juicy Tube without being sticky. In fact, it actually moisturizes with aqua-botanicals and Vitamin E so I feel like I'm wearing chapstick with the benefits of a gloss.

Another benefit of getting Juicy Tube shine without the tube is clean hands and a perfect pout. I'm not a big fan of getting gloss all over my fingers or spreading on too much. The Shine Seduction Gloss goes on evenly with its sculpting tip. You can use the dial at the bottom to get as much gloss as you need.

In all, the only complaint I have is that it doesn't last 6 hours so I guess I'll be reviewing Infallible soon. In the meantime, try Shine Seduction for $7.79, or around $6.49 if you get it at Wal-Mart. It will curb your appetite if you're a a fellow product junkie.