The Dress that Launched a Blog.

I'll admit it - I'm a bit of a shopaholic. But come on, aren't most twenty-something girls? The goal as I see it isn't exactly not being a shopaholic but making sure that what you buy matches your budget. And that's what I do. And that's what my blog is about. Kind of.  It's also about my life, and how sometimes a great find can put you in a great mood and kick start a great day. Because there are few things better than getting a great pair of shoes for 70% off (except for when those shoes are actually comfortable).

I recently moved to NYC after living in the literal boondocks for three years for law school. Luckily for me, online shopping got me through, and taught me the wonders of online coupons (RetailMeNot - I love you). Still, I'm quickly finding out that nothing compares to bargain hunting in the City.

Halloween is coming up quick. I am super excited (and this is where I reveal my super dorky side) for the Harry Potter themed Halloween party I am attending. After pondering how to be different and not just another Hogwarts student, I thought of the perfect costume ... drum rolls ... the Golden Snitch. Right, not exactly a Harry Potter "character", but it does provide me the chance to acquire a sparkly gold dress. I have been loving the idea of owning such a dress, but I mean, its kind of a hard purchase to justify. Even in NYC it can be hard to get enough wears out of such an item. Gold and sparkly isn't exactly professional wear, and I am out of that club stage of life (mostly). But I decided if I could find a dress for a good deal then I would be sold. I mean, there's always New Years Eve, right?

So I have been searching. And searching. I lost E-Bay auctions and have toyed with the idea of wearing a truly hideous (but gold! and cheap!) dress from Forever 21 that really got that painted-on-rubber-suit look oh-so-right. Then today, I discovered Daffy's. I had always thought Daffy's was a shoe store, but oh was I wrong. The store was full of fabulous finds, including my gold dress for the low low price of $16. Ultimate shopping win!

So my Shopaholic and Budget bank-saving tip of the day? Don't be scared of discount stores. Some can be really scary (I ventured into one the other day that I will not be returning to), but some of them are awesome! If you can get over the idea that you need to do some hunting (and you're going to be taking home your clothes in a plastic bag instead of a cute "little brown bag") then you can do great. Happy sales my friend!