the ten commandments.

What to do to find the "right" outfit at a used clothing store.

1. Location. Where are you off to? If you're getting ready to go to the club, you know you'll want something a little sexier. If you're going to a funeral, that would obviously be inappropriate (AND WRONG!) Think: simple. Don't try to overload your mind with accessories yet. Just the basics. The dress. The shirt. The pants. That's it!

2. The color. Is it dead of winter? Beginning of spring? Keep the colors in accordance to the season. You would never want to show up to a Christmas party wearing a hot, pink dress.... Barbie! Review your cool and warm color wheel that you still have made from the second grade before hitting the mall!

3. Get personal. Get to know the girls (or guys) that work in the store department you're shopping in. The friendly girl is the trendy girl. They'll want to help YOU before anyone else, and that gives you a chance to see more clothes selections.

4. Play around. Grab the shirt that looks fun! Try it on. There's no harm in trying something on that's "not quite you" because sometimes that's the goal. It only becomes official at the cash register.

5. Price. Here's my 8-12-25 rule. If you're shopping at a used clothes store (which, are the best!!) take advantage of their prices. Never buy a shirt that's more than 8, never buy a dress that's more than 12, and never buy pants that are more than 25. That's MY rule. Make your own! Work with a budget. Just remember: it depends on the article of clothing and it's necessity.

6. Group it. If you find that adorable black dress that you just can't live without, buy it! (As long as it's under your price rule.) But... is that too good to be true purple, sparkly, over-sized purse still taunting your mind and yelling, "BUY ME! BUY ME!" If it is, you have a choice. The black dress can be used on multiple occasions: funerals, clubs, weddings, dinners, family pictures, etc... the purple purse? Not so much. Group your items! Use that cute cardigan for five outfits, not just one!

7. In, check, out, check. Always check clothing! Used clothing stores are AWESOME! They offer wide varities of clothing styles, colors, types, shapes... everything. But always be aware that it was worn once, by someone that may or may not have taken care of it. Check inside for rips in the seams, and outside for tears normally near the bottom of shirts, ragged-torn jeans at the bottoms, and dresses near the zipper. Also, check for stains or discoloring.

8. Get smart and sassy. Sometimes I'm okay with a tiny stain. Because it's so unnoticable and no one will see! Sometimes I don't care if there's a rip-- I own needles and thread. But get smart! And get sassy! Ask the manager, (KINDLY) if you can have a discount. Usually, they will say yes. If a button is missing, show them! But be honest.

9. Buy it! The best part. Buying those clothes. There's something good about walking out of a store holding a pair of Seven Jeans that you only paid $35 bucks for. Ahhh. The good sigh of satisfaction. Keep the receipt. Know the return policy just in case. And wear those bad boys loud and proud!

10. Be the good samaritan. Take care of your clothes. Know how to properly wash them and hang them. Then, once that Christmas dinner party with your co-workers is finally over, take back that Gucci dress that you only paid $40 for, and re-sell it! That's the beauty of it. Your closet is a never ending cycle of cuteness and smartness!