Gifts For Her Under $50

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While shopping is one of my favorite pastimes, I have such a hard time thinking of what to gift people for the holidays. Some people are so easy, and other are extremely difficult just depending on their personality. If you are shopping for someone where it is hard to take the “personal” approach to gifting, you may find yourself in a rut. And when you aren’t looking to spend a lot of money, things get near to impossible to find a good gift. When I am put in this position, I try to think gifts I would love to receive, and think, what is something that I wouldn’t buy for myself? Taking that into consideration, I have curated a list of gifts for her you can find under $50.

Slippers

Slippers are something that everyone loves and wants, but they just seem impractical to buy since you never wear them outside of the house. So what better way to get a pair of slippers than being gifted them? I love these from Madewell as sherpa is a staple this fall, but I have included links to others as well.

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

Lululemon really knew what they were doing calling this the everywhere bag, because the people that wear these wear them everywhere; workout, errands, bars – the list goes on. The green color is perfect, but if you’re not a fan check out the fifteen others.

Kosas “Take The Site Home” Kit

For the beauty lover that has everything – this is it. This is one of my all time favorite brands as I have their skin tint, concealer and bronzer. With this $35 kit, you are able to test every shade of every product from Kosas. If you find a product you like, you can use the $35 you used to purchase the kit as a gift certificate on their website. Definitely one of the coolest ideas I have seen in beauty, and it is only available on Kosas website.

Luxury Laundry Detergent

Laundry detergent is one of those things I hate to buy because it can be so expensive for no reason. SO, this would be a great gift to receive. The Le Labo detergent smells amazing, and another favorite of mine is the Glamorous Wash in the scent Diva.

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk On The Go Kit

If you have been on any social media, you know that Charlotte Tilbury was the beauty brand of 2021 – for a good reason. The cult favorite Pillow Talk line is the perfect makeup-no-makeup for glam or day to day wear. This kit retails for $50 and consist of a mini eye pencil, mascara, lip liner and lipstick.

The Five Minute Journal

I can’t even count how many times I have talked about The Five-Minute Journal on this website, so you know this has to be worth it. This daily journal is the perfect gift for anyone no matter their age, as it practices gratitude and reminds us of the importance of each day. Highly recommend.

Nice Candles

As a very new adult, I love burning candles but I hate buying them, as buying candles I love are just not in my budget right now. This Kacey Musgraves candle is hands down my favorite candle I have had over the past year, and it has 50 hours of burn time. I have linked some of my other favorites as well, because no one is ever upset if they are gifted a candle.

Skims Mock Neck Tank

I know that it is winter, but it is never too cold to layer. I personally do not own this tank, but have heard beyond amazing things about. Skims has many affordable pieces under $50, if you if are wanting to gift a set instead of just one piece you are looking at about $60 depending on the items you select. This red color came out for the holidays and is stunning. Wearing this under a blazer with jeans and sneakers sounds right up my alley – and about half of the population’s alley too.

Fun Earrings

Buying new earrings can add up, especially if you don’t want them to turn after a few wears. Studs has the best earrings at a good price point, and they are great quality. They have so many fun earrings like these cowboy boot huggies, alphabet studs, square hoops and more.

Claw Clips

Girls basically exclusively wear their hair in claw clips now, so receiving one is always appreciated to add to the collection. Emi Jay makes the best clips, and you can find these all on Revolve.

Venus Et Fleur Le Mini

While yes, it sounds steep to pay $40 for one rose, this one rose will live all year and yes, it is real. This singular floral arrangement is the perfect gift for the person that actually has everything and is a ~material girl~

Pajama Set

Run, don’t walk, because J.Crew’s pajama sets are only $39. If you missed the sale do not worry, they are running sales all through Christmas. Thank me later!

If you have any gifts for her under $50 you would like yo recommend, please reach out and I can add them to the list (:

Happy Holidays!

My Favorite SS22 Looks

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Fashion weeks are back are back like they never left.

Over the past couple of weeks, designers have been releasing their spring and summer 2022 ready to wear collections. We are seeing lots of trends form last spring stick around such as the knitwear, mixed materials and gender neutral clothing – and I am not mad about it. There are also some deigns on the runway that are bringing back major 2000’s vibes with the mini silk dresses, illuminating accessories and, what everyone loves to hate it, the Canadian tuxedo.

Out of the collections I have seen so far, one of my favorites has been Miu Miu. Miu Miu channeled more of the gender neutral aspect, but by taking mens clothing and reconstructing it to mini skirts and cropped office wear. This was on the causal side of runway attire compared to past Miu Miu collections, and that is to show that we are in a new, defining age of casual dressing. They are taking business casual to a whole new level – has it won over corporate America? Maybe not, but it for sure has left a mark on myself and the rest of Gen Z.

Along with Miu Miu, there were many other designers that surprised me such as Jil Sander, AZ Factory, Christian Dior, and more. Can I afford anything from these collections? Absolutely not, so I will admire them from afar.

Here are my favorite looks for SS22.

Help, I Suck At Thrifting

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It’s okay, me too.

In a world that is consumed by fast fashion, thrifting is climbing its way back into our consumer purchasing system. Over the past year I have really tried to watch my intake of fast fashion from popular retailers such as Zara, H&M, etc. as they cause extreme amounts of garment waste. It are these companies that that draw in such a large amount of customers because they are promoting items at a cheaper price. If I don’t shop there, how else I am supposed to afford the trendiest items everyone has? Well, you know the saying “what goes around comes around”? That has to do with fashion too. And the best way to stay in the consumer loop? Thrifting.

I am very new to buying lightly worn clothes, but I have found out some tips for when it comes to finding the best deals, where to look, and who to trust. Here is what I have found.

Know where to shop.

While I know there are many thrift stores near me in Chicago, between work and school, I have not had the time to go and explore what they have to offer. In the meantime I have been using online apps such as Depop, Curtsy, Poshmark, Ebay and TheRealReal to find some of the best steals.

Follow sellers on online that are your size.

Yes, there are so many options to buy used clothing and accessories, which can make shopping very overwhelming. Finding sellers on these apps, more specifically Depop, with your style preference and size is a game changer. I have purchased from sellers in the past who have bought from stores I like to primarily purchase from, and are my size. This makes online thrifting quick and easy, and you can follow them for post notifications.

Follow influencer’s on Poshmark.

I have found that influencers are some of the best people to buy from off Poshmark. Most influencers only wear clothes one time for a photo, and are constantly being sent new items, so the lifecycle of a piece of theirs is very short. But, some sell their clothes online for extremely inexpensive. I just purchased a Ganni dress that was worn once by an influencer for $40 (it was originally $250).

Use eBay if you’re looking for vintage designer.

While I have not purchased from eBay for designer bags, I have definitely looked and I know many people who have. Despite the claims that eBay cannot be trusted, it its almost difficult to dupe a vintage designer bag, which ensures many bags authenticity. A vintage bag has plenty of wear, while good dupes are newer and are noticeably clean. It is much cheaper to purchase off of eBay than designer second-hand stores like TheRealReal or Fashionphile, so this will be where I buy my next designer bag.

Start selling your clothes online

Whether you need a second source of income or are just looking for a closet cleanup, selling your clothes online is always a great option. In college I worked for Cursty, an app target towards college girls for easy buying and selling. When I sold I was able to see who bought my clothes. If they are my size and like my clothes it was almost certain that I would fit into the pieces they are selling and like their style too. It’s a great way to make money and find new places to shop. A win-win!

If you have any tips to share about thrifting, leave a comment for other readers below. Help each other shop sustainable!

Best Of The Best: Revolve Sale Finds

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I have been SO good about not buying clothes. But today I did something so bad for my bank… I opened the Revolve app.

Revolve is normally crazy expensive especially with my high end taste, so I try to stay clear of it as much as possible due to my tight post-graduate budget. BUT, with a long shopping dry spell, comes a big (reasonable) shopping haul. We’ll see if I have the funds for that, but I definitely have been saving some pieces in the Revolve sale section. In my opinion the sale on Revolve is super hit or miss, but recently it has been a HIT. Some of my favorite brands like Cotton Citizen and For Love & Lemons have recently added to the sale section, and I know these won’t stay in stock for long,

If you’re looking to add some new pieces to your wardrobe without breaking the bank, grab these discounted pieces from Revolve while they are still in stock.

Cotton Citizen Milan Sweatpants

The ultimate WTH essential. Cotton Citizen is such an expensive, high quality brand made in the USA that normally charges hundreds for pair of sweats. This pair? $38.

$195 $38

The M Jewelers Initial Necklace

This M Jewelers is one of my favorites when it comes to long lasting jewelry. Classic, yet trendy pieces that last years and years are hard to come across, so I’d go for this with or without a sale.

$100 $65

Agolde 90’s Pinch Waist Short

My favorite denim brand? Agolde. 100%. It is because of this brand I have swapped my favorite joggers for jeans. If you live in a warmer state and aren’t quite ready for jeans, denim Bermuda’s are the perfect substitute – and these are top notch.

$148 $104

Ganni Zipper Boot

If there is one thing we all know it’s that lugged-sole shoes are going to be a hit this fall, which is why I am shocked these Ganni boots are almost half off. Are they still expensive? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.

$445 $236

n:philanthropy Monty Bodysuit

This is the most basic bodysuit ever but yet again is made with such long lasting, high quality materials. Definitely could be a piece in your capsule wardrobe.

$128 $45

OW Intimates Sherpa Hoodie

OW intimates makes the best basics/ lingerie type clothes which are great got going out or lounging around the house. This sherpa hoodie will be especially good if you are in the north when those closer months hit us quicker than we expect.

$218 $92

ALIX NYC Grace Crop Top

Despite this crop top being styled with yoga pants, this tank is extremely versatile and is the epitome of a day-to-night look. Style this to yoga in the mornings, and wear with a pair of leather pants to grab drinks at night.

$95 $40

MONROW Turtleneck Dress

I know it is still so hot outside, but it is never too early to prep for fall. The small cutout gives this dress a little bug of an edge. This would definitely be something I’d wear out fir drinks with a great pair of chunky boots.

$169 $46

Cotton Citizen Brooklyn Short

If you’re still at MSU – get these for tailgate season. If I were still in college there I would 100% have these in my cart and at my door before the first home game.

$155 $53

Aritzia, I Love You, But We Need To Talk

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Aritzia, Aritzia, Aritzia. The new colt favorite (and personal favorite of mine) has been steadily releasing their fall collections throughout the month of August. First came Wilfred, then came TNA, now comes Sunday Best.

Sunday Best is an Aritzia in-house brand that is tailored more towards their Gen-Z customer. The many tennis skirts, sweater vests and baby tee’s are the 90’s reinvention that we didn’t know we needed. And this 90’s to early 2000’s look is all the rage and a huge hit with the company’s target audience. But there is one issue with this style being so popular – the copying of designs from other companies.

I was beyond excited to see Sunday Best’s fall collection, but there were a few things that stuck out to me from their release. Their graphic tee’s are almost exact designs from Réalisation Par and Brandy Melville.

On the left, Aritzia, on the right, Brandy Melville.

While this original design from Brandy Melville has been copied many times in fast fashion, I was not expecting to this at Aritzia in their fall collection. They have also made similar designs on other shirts with the words “Ranger”, “Rodeo Kid” and “Buckaroo”.

The second design that I immediately recognized from another brand is this shirt originally designed by Réalisation Par. This brand rapidly increased in popularity through social media as their floral dresses were seen on many influencers throughout the summer. Their dresses weren’t the only thing that stuck out on their website. Their unique baby tee’s were flying off the shelves. Constantly sold out, this is an immediately recognizable shirt. So I was yet again shocked to see this on Aritzia’s website. Aritzia and Réalisation Par bring in the same kind of customer, so this won’t go unnoticed.

On the left, Aritzia, on the right, Réalisation Par.

While unfortunately designs are copied all the time, I am disappointed with these pieces from Aritzia. What sets Aritzia apart form its competitors is its timeless, unique yet classy pieces that are wardrobe staples to keep in your closet for years. But with this collection that is launching on Thursday, it shows that the company is taking a different approach to reach their target audience. And to be honest, the target has been missed. By this ever so slight rebrand from Sunday Best, they are putting themselves on the same playing field as other overdone Gen-Z brands. What they have works, there is not need to change that and it shows in their numbers. Some of their past quarters have hit company records in terms of revenue, so I am curious, why the change to be like everyone else?

The collection comes out tomorrow. While I will be browsing the new items, you won’t find me making any purchases from Sunday Best.

The Oversaturation Of Instagram Influencers

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Brace yourself for my unpopular opinion.

Instagram influencers are the backbone of product advertising. Every time you go on Instagram think about how many times you scroll past a post promoting a product. And when I say a promoted product it doesn’t have to be from the self-proclaimed influencer, but even from your favorite actor or athlete. So, now that you’re thinking of it that way, it’s probably a lot. On my social media pages it seems like I can’t pass three post without seeing a photo with the caption #ad. A few years ago, this marketing tactic worked. Extremely well. Now? The excessive Princess Polly and Crest Whitening Strips ads aren’t cutting it.

Before we talk about the downfalls of influencer marketing, let’s talk about its perks. Customers like hearing from a person that they trust. The word influencer is defined as “a person with the ability to influence potential buyers of a product or service by promoting or recommending the items on social media”. They influence because they are trusted. Without these people having a trusted following, they wouldn’t be able to get other people to buy what they “love” so much. Have I bought things that an influencer promotes? Absolutely! I have girls and accounts that I follow that I feel like I have built a connection with, which makes me trust their recommendations, which leads me to purchase their beloved product. This form of product advertising does work. But it has to be done correctly. And as it has become more popular, this form of advertising is over saturating the product market. Therefore, decreasing its effectiveness.

Despite brand’s best efforts to appeal to the Gen Z and Millennial age group, something is missing between the consumers & their sought after purchase. These generations have taken it into their own hands to become a typical “Instagram influencer”, and it’s hurting the market. And I want to note that I am not knocking influencers in any sort of way. I know it is crazy hard work, time and effort to achieve the things that they do. Shoot I even struggle to work my full time job and get blog post up a few times a week. They work hard, but the influencer world is overdone. Oversaturated. It has been roughly ten years since Instagram started, and about the same time since the first influencers gained their following. Technology is evolving, and so is the product advertising in a digitally driven world.

According to Forbes, affiliate marking is already maturing. While it seems like every brand is on social media looking for people to push their product out to their target audience, classic, luxury brands like Bottega Veneta have steered clear of this tactic. Could this be because the market has too many brand’s doing too similar of advertising? Part of me thinks so. I give these luxury brands props for sticking to traditional advertising methods that seem to be working. Bottega doesn’t seem to be having a problem as their Mini Jodie & Chain Pouch have been seen everywhere for the past year.

Despite the constant change in advertising tactics, product marketing is important. And necessary for a brand to succeed. The question that remains though is what is next for the “influencer” world? Will Instagram remain on top, or will a new platform reign in the world of influencers? Hard to say due to the evolution of technology, but keep your eyes peeled for something other than the #ad.

What You Need From Aritzia’s Clientele Sale

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If you have read any of my previous blog posts… you know I have a crippling love for Aritzia. But the price tag? Not so much. Lucky enough their annual clientele sale is going on right now, with twenty to fifty percent off everything if you’re a loyal customer. If you are not yet part of the clientele sale, don’t worry. They have many other items up to fifty percent off for you to try. Making a few purchase during this sale isn’t a want, but a need.

With half of my wardrobe coming from this store, I have found truly the best pieces and will tell you what is worth your money.

Oh and I recommend heading to www.artizia.com before everything sells out. Sale ends 06/20.

TNA Cozy Fleece Boyfriend Hoodie

I only have this hoodie in one color due to the steep price for a plain hoodie, but that will change when the weather starts to get colder. I have this in black and have washed it a MILLION times and there is not one sign of wear.

TNA Tennis Skirt

I don’t own this skirt but I bought it for my sister for her birthday and she wears it all the time. It is super light and flowy with built in shorts, and isn’t too athletic so it an be dressed up or down.

Megan’s rating: 8/10

TnaLIFE Atmosphere Hi-Rise Short

I talked about these in my very first blog post almost a year ago they are still a favorite. I work out and lounge in these – they are basically a second skin.

TNA Cozy Fleece Perfect Hi-Rise Short

Again with the cozy fleece, it just doesn’t miss. I have two pairs of the three inch short, but it comes in other lengths including two, five and six inches.

TNA Oritz T-Shirt

This is hands down the best cropped t-shirt I have ever owned. I have this in white and brown and have worn it into the ground. I wear a size medium and it is tight fitting, but not in a “it’s too small” way.

Sunday Best Kicker 90’s Baggy Straight Jeans

When it comes to denim I am an avid Agolde lover. But again the price is not ideal for my post-grad budget. These jeans from Aritzia are the closest dupe I have found in length, style and material. They are the perfect straight jeans and hit just above my ankle. Even though they are just a plain pair of jeans, they are cut extremely trendy and flattering. And right now they are only $68.

Sunday Best Honors Tank

Want to know how I know this is the perfect tank? I have it in three colors.

Good thing it comes in nineteen more!

Must-Have Summer Sandals

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As someone who wears primarily sneakers, I struggle finding this right sandals to wear when the weather heats up. From strapping to chunky, open toed shoes are going to be the backbone of my wardrobe especially living in Texas.

I have been eyeing these sandals all season long, and have included my favorites for beach days or a night out.

Puffed Sandals

This was a trend from last year that has carried in the spring and summer months. Such a classic, elevated basic that goes perfectly with jeans, trousers and more.

Check out these from & Other Stories.

Satin Slides

Mix different materials into your outfit by including a satin pair of slides. This colorful pair is from Cult Gia.

Colorful Heels

Tired of wearing the same nude sandals every time you grab dinner and drinks? Try adding color in your shoes opposed to your clothes.

This shoe comes in four colors and is by Gianni Bini.

Errands Sandals

Want a slightly more elevated sandal besides a pool slide to slip on as you leave the house? Tkees is the best option. These are so comfortable and can be worn it’s almost anything.

Pool Slides

These cloud slides have taken over the internet at the casual slide of the summer. The waterproof, platform sandal is perfect for the beach, pool, etc.

Get these on Amazon, and they are prime.

Bandana Sandals

Definitely the Pinterest shoe of the summer, the bandana sandal has been seen everywhere on social media, and will be not being going away this season.

There are many dupes of these, but the original are from Arizona Love.

Minimalistic Sandals

These. Shoes. As someone who is almost afraid of wearing color, I am obsessed with these. SENSO never misses.

Chunky Dad Shoes

While these are definitely an acquired taste, these Ganni sandals are at the top of my list. These come in so many colors and are so easy to style. And, they are from a sustainable brand.

I Can Go Out Again… What Do I Wear?

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With restaurants and bars starting to open back up you may be thinking… what do I wear out? It has been a long time since everyone has gone to a bar or out to nice dinner, and since early 2020 style has changed tremendously. Fashion evolves so quickly, and with that comes with the uncertainty of what to wear out.

I have styled outfits from some of my favorite retailers such as SSENSE, Shopbop, ASOS, and more. Each outfit made for a different occasion, but all supposed to make you feel confident for hitting the town this summer. Shop them all with the links below and via my LIKEtoKNOW.it .

G.N.O.

Dinner & Drinks

Brunch Date

Beach Dinner

Hitting The Town

Graduation Dresses To Buy Before The Big Day

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I have recently graduated college (sad), so I know the stress of finishing the perfect dress for photos, ceremonies, parties, etc. Since these dresses are typically white across the board, I have found some of my favorite white dresses to wear under your cap and gown. These range in price, style, and formality so you can find your perfect dress.

I have linked all of the dresses shown in the header photo. If you are looking for more dresses, there are more linked in my LIKEtoKNOW.it.

Revolve Amanda Uprichard Dress

ASOS Missguided Satin Dress

Alice + Olivia Tuxedo Mini Dress

Revolve For Love & Lemons Sunbeam Dress

ASOS Topshop Organza Dress

Nordstrom Endless Rose Eyelet Dress

Shopbop Free People Shirt Dress

Anthropologie Satin Midi Dress