Category Archives: VINTAGE

The Start Of My Fab Vegan Collection

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Happy Sunday Sistas!

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As you all know, I love a good shoe sale! The hunt and rush of finding fabulous foot candy is well, how to say it…I’m an addict ok…without apologies! I’ve mentioned early in the birth of this blog that when I got married and took a step back from my television career, my shopping budget went from Fred Segal and Neiman’s status to TJ Maxx and Marshall’s. Learning to shop with Cristal Champagne taste on a Bud Light budget became a fun form of creativity for me. Of course, after the initial mourning over the loss of all the designer items I sold.

A moment of silence for those Gucci handbags, please.

Now, I get to teach all of you how to get creative! You do not have to sacrifice style and expressing yourself through fashion just because you have to wear Steve Madden instead of Christian Louboutin. I actually sold my remaining few Loubou’s on Ebay to have extra spending money when we moved to Dallas last year and you know what? I don’t miss them one bit. Now, will I add more Loubou’s to my shoe collection at some point? Heck yea sista! I’ve learned to embrace the ebb & flow of life. Even how it pertains to my wardrobe!

Now, to today’s point. As a lover of the finer, most beautifully crafted types of shoes- I admit to being a bit snobby when it came to wearing “vegan” non-leather shoes. Then, a few months ago a client hired me to coach her on image and give her some tips to begin “veganizing” her wardrobe. She made a valid point for wanting to rid her closet of leather goods, but had not been able to find really chic & fashionable items in her country.

SOS to the rescue!

Right before I started working with her, I had just bought a few non-leather handbags that I simply adored. They were so cute I didn’t care that they weren’t expensive Italian leather. There are so many on-trend and stylish companies producing great quality vegan items now. So, I had gotten over my snobby attitude toward bags, but still had an ego about the shoes. My style philosophy has always been that you can wear stylish inexpensive outfits from H & M, but don’t be too chintzy on the shoes. But, we’re always growing and evolving with our fashion sense and when I saw a stylish fashionista rockin’ these hot red fringe booties at an event last month…I just had to have them. Come to find out they were faux suede and under $20. Say what?  By Shoe Republic LA.

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My vegan shoe collection has officially been started! The great thing about buying trendy vegan shoes is you can purchase several pair and still have money left over to buy those pair of great fitting jeans or that chic black blazer at a heaftier price tag. If they are super trendy, you may not even wear them the following year and then you aren’t out $1500. Which is equivalent to some people’s mortgage payment! Ouch.

Here are a few more vegan shoes by that I’ve added to the collection…

These blingy leopard print heels above, also by Shoe Republic LA, were a bit over-the-top for me, but they kept calling my name…Pssst, Tiffany…can I come live in your closet room please? If you saw my shoe webisode, you know I’m a firm believer in buying statement specialty shoes.. just because! 

Chambray denim is one of THE hottest styles this Spring. So is the high 70’s platform! I was thrilled to find these to wear with colorful floral maxi sundresses.

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What are your thoughts on “vegan” shoes and handbags?

As always, do what works for you, your unique personal style, your lifestyle and your budget.

SHINE ON!

Love, Tiff xo

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BEING MISS THRIFTY IS STYLISH & SMART: A Day In My Life

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Happy Sunday Sistas!

Since moving to Dallas, my husband has been in and out of town every month with his CD launch and we haven’t had much time to explore this fab city. Since he was in town for the 4th of July weekend, I decided to introduce him (and reintroduce myself) to all that Dallas has to offer. I love to just get in the car and go on excursions without a hard set schedule. We knew we wanted to have a chill day with some browsing, nibbles and I wanted to get in some thrift shopping.

We started at Bishop Arts District which has changed and grown since I last lived here. This charming, Austin-esque area has some of my favorite eateries as well as eclectic shops and vintage stores. Grab brunch at Oddfellows or dinner at Tillman’s Road House. Tillman’s private dining room is amazing with real trees lining the walls. One of the best meals I’ve ever had. Put this on your to-do list when visiting Big D!  

bishop_arts_TiffAaronA few peeps have already asked about my outfit on Instagram so I want to make sure you sistas are in the loop, too. Dress: Rory Beca , Crossbody Bag: Steve Madden, Mirrored Aviators: Betsy Johnson

One of my favorite things to do when I lived in Dallas 15 years ago was thrift shopping. The greater DFW area has fantastic thrift and vintage stores. Yesterday was my first opportunity to go hunting – and bless my hubby’s heart – he was so patient. I’m sure thrift shopping is comparable to getting teeth pulled without anesthesia for a man. He was not only patient, he asked Siri where the best locations were!

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One of my intentions for the Summer is making the time to read more. I have ordered a few new titles off Amazon, but the very best place to get books is Goodwill. I’ve mentioned this on the blog before and several of you commented that you also shop there for your books. Well, yesterday – my thrifty shopping angels were on it and led us to a gigantic Goodwill where I found 13 hardcover books at only $2 a pop. HOLLA! I found books to fill many of my interests from leadership and spirituality titles from John C. Maxwell, Max Lucado, Sarah Ban Breathnach, M.Scott Peck MD, Thomas Moore and John Eldredge to Suze Orman’s financial wisdom to a few biographies of successful female TV hosts. I also love giving away the small, but powerful reads by Bruce Wilkinson on the message of John 15 and the Prayer of Jabez so I pick up extra copies whenever I find them. 

I was excited to find that my favorite Dallas Salvation Army on Harry Hines was still open and guess what I found there? Three beautiful silk scarves in gorgeous Summer colors for a whopping $8 total. Can I get a double… Holla, Holla! Although thrift shopping takes some skill, a good eye and high tolerance for that funky “vintage smell” – it is so fun and rewarding when you score! Most books average $26 retail and I got 13 for the same price. A good quality silk scarf will run you from $30-300 depending on the brand. So, being thrifty is both stylish and smart, sista! 

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We still have so much to explore in Dallas, but for our first jaunt around town- it was a total success!  We ended the day hydrating and snacking on the best chips & salsa on the planet at Rafa’s on Lovers Lane. Add it to your list when visiting! You can’t visit any city in Texas without indulging on their best Tex Mex.

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I would love to hear your favorite spots for thrift shopping!

Comment, share, tweet and let me know.

Love, Tiff

 

THE FIRST WEEK OF SPRING= FABULOUS!

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Hey Sistas! 

You know those week’s we have periodically that are just perfect…like a dream, full of fun and magical moments. I just experienced a week like that!  Today, I am reveling in the blessings and had to share it with all of you. If you are on Instagram, this may be a repeat for ya, sorry. The lesson I relearned from this week was the power in reaching out and doing for others during your own difficult time. The week prior, we had a very challenging time with some business situations and I needed to get out of my head and stop focusing on my present circumstances. It did the trick…

Let’s start with last Saturday: I have mentioned meeting a remarkable young woman named Jessica Youngblood who has a ministry called Just Fabulous Events which helps build confidence in teen girls. She is a recovered meth addict who has transformed her life through God’s love and healing power. Her mission is in alignment with mine and I truly believe in Divine connections which empowers us to do more together than we can all alone. Jess asked me to be part of the event as emcee and stylist of the fashion show. I was honored and so blessed by the entire experience. There is nothing better than seeing a big group of adorable girls giggling and having fun! But, my favorite part of the night is toward the end when the girls are given a quiet moment to reflect on  what they need to give over to God to heal. It could be any broken part of their life. They write it on a rock and go lay in down at the foot of the cross. It was so beautiful to see all the girls go up to the front and release their pain. SO Powerful! I wish we had an event like this when I was a hurting teenager!!  Click to see more pics and “like” her Facebook page. 

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Then on Monday: My bestie Heidi wanted to give our girlfriend Christine- who is recovering from a year of chemo and a mastectomy- a special birthday gift.  One can only imagine how devastating that experience can be on a woman’s self-esteem so what better to help her feel glam again? A professional photoshoot with hair & makeup and starting the day with a blowout at Drybar! Heidi asked me to be part of the special day and help her get Christine ready with a great outfit and beautiful makeup. Christine said it was the most beautiful she has felt in 2 years. Mission accomplished. WOWZER! How gorgeous does she look… 

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Jump to Tuesday & Wednesday: I can’t remember the last time both my sister and I have been home at the same time. It’s been years! She flew in to Houston for a brief visit so I jetted down there for some QT with the fam. Our favorite thing to do with our Mom is load up on energy with some TexMex then spend hours digging through thrift stores. As soon as we enter the store, we separate. The hunt begins! We will holler across the store to one another with a find- as if we struck oil. We try things on and begin the fashion show giving each other a thumbs up or down. This would make a hilarious reality show! Our family has been through a lot of healing over the years and has had it’s share of tough times, like most families, so I cherish these precious moments more than ever. 

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Hydrating with a Cherry Limeade

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My goal of scoring something in a bold floral print- ACCOMPLISHED! This blouse covers several Spring trends- Pleats, Sheer, Puffy Sleeves & Bold Floral Print.

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The remainder of the week was filled successful work stuff, auditions, one of the best girl’s nights ever-  plus, seeing my coaching client really step it up and rock her session with me. I’m like a proud mama! This first week of Spring will go down in the HERstory books for me. 

Here’s a quick hair tip (this blog post is all over the place), but for you ladies who are wanting a longer ponytail- this is the best hair trick I’ve ever come up with. I only wish I had figured it out years ago! Thursday was swamped and I didn’t have enough time to wash and blowdry my hair for girl’s night. I thought a high ponytail would be quick & ez, but my pony looked wimpy and short. BINGO- I added a second ponytail underneath and voila- problem solved. I felt like “I Dream of Genie”. So fun and will be my go-to summer style! 

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WHAT WAS THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR FIRST WEEK OF SPRING?

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend!

Love, Tiff

 

 

6 Accessories That Are Always In Style (Part 1)

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Hey Fashionistas! 

This will be the first of a few posts like this because there was no way I could narrow down this topic to just 6 items.  Recently, I was digging through my drawers and closets trying to “clear the clutter” like I discussed in my Closet Organization webisode.  I stumbled upon several things that I had to take a good hard look at…things I’ve had for yeeeeeears!  I do this every Spring and Fall.  It’s almost like a game I play with myself.  Should I chunk it?  Keep it?  Give to my sis or a close friend so it stays in the family? (my besties and I do that with items we really love) Donate it?  Sell it on Ebay?   Those items we have purchased wisely, which never go out of style, absolutely should keep their cherished spot in our wardrobe.  Especially after selling so many of my beautiful designer things after I got married and finances were tight!  There are some things I’m so happy I kept! 

Here’s 6 timeless accessories I love:

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1.Red Peep-Toe Slingbacks

These were the very first expensive pair of shoes I bought myself after I booked my  first TV show here in LA. They are by Casadei and I always felt like a million bucks when I wore them. A great red pump with a timeless heel should be a staple in every fashionistas closet!  So Old Hollywood!

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2. Gold Bangle Bracelet

A classic gold bangle is the perfect add-on to any outfit…casual or dressy.  A single bangle or a few stacked always adds that bit of  “wow factor” without being over-the-top. I’ve been obsessed with arm candy since I was little.  I rarely leave the house without throwing on a bracelet… or two!

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3. Low-Slung Brown Leather Belt

This is probably one of the most talked about items in my webisodes. It is so versatile and can instantly hide the muffin top!  Add it to a tunic, jeans or sundress to create the illusion of a longer waist and smaller hips. If you do not own one, I suggest running out and getting one ASAP!

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4. Rhinestone Evening Earrings

Can you believe these were the earrings I wore to prom?  I remember it like it was yesterday.. finding them at this chic boutique in Houston on Westheimer Rd.  Back then, this was like shopping on Rodeo Drive for me!  I don’t wear rhinestones much these days, but a girl never knows when she may need to pull them out!

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5. Quilted Chain Bag

I just realized this is one of those items I mentioned that is from one of my besties, LeeAnne (make sure to check out her blog, LeeAnne Locken Loves>>> link on the right side of this blog) gave this to me at least 15 years ago.  Chanel made the quilted chain handbag famous. There have been several knock offs and variations, but the authentic handbag was presented to the public in 1955 and will NEVER go out of style!  

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6. Statement Necklace

Whether it’s long and sleek or short and embellished, a fabulous statement necklace is always in.  I think this one is technically vintage by the brand Trifari from the 70’s.   Like the gold bangle, this is a piece you can throw on with just about any kind of top or dress for a bit of oomph.

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What is one of your most coveted items that you hope to keep and maybe pass down to a daughter, niece or granddaughter?

So it’s the middle of May.. how amazing is your month going so far?

Please share and A-ha’s, breakthroughs or beautiful moments!

 

Love, Tiff 

 

This post was brought to you by Indo Salon.  Indo specializes in Cuts, Styles, Haircolor, Highlights, Great Length Extensions, Hair Lingerie, Japanese Thermal Straightening, Brazillian Blowout and Eyebrow Tinting.