There is a misconception that Nordstrom only sells expensive things.  Yes, the store has lots of pricey designer pieces, but there are also amazing deals to be had--sometimes better than the discount stores! Just to prove my point, I've put together some fabulous finds, all under $25.00.  

Thank you to my Facebook friends for coming up with blog topics. A few people mentioned that they can't seem to figure out "what goes with what" and how to mix up their wardrobe. As a result, they feel like they're wearing the same outfits over and over again. Sound familiar? I doubt this stems from not having enough clothes, but rather not have the RIGHT clothes. I find that so many of my clients have a lot of "fluff" in their wardrobe...pieces that don't seem to match or go with anything else. You know those "orphans"...the top that is too long to go with anything, the dress with the weird neckline that doesn't look right with a jacket, or that print top that doesn't match any of your pants. What's lacking here are  the basics --clothes that work together as a team and are the foundation of a great wardrobe.

Here's my advice:

1.  Purge your closet often.  Why keep clothes you don't love?  Closet real estate is valuable space and should hold only the pieces that make you look and feel great. Honestly, it's so much easier to put outfits together when you know everything works and your closet is easy to navigate!
2. Get down to basics.  Invest in quality, great fitting basic pieces such as jeans, trousers, cashmere sweaters, pencil skirts, silk blouses, etc. As we get older, cheap clothes don't always work as well as they used to. I look for great cuts, quality fabrics, and structure. No more thin clingy materials for me. At 53 I'm going for fit and flatter. I'd rather have less clothes, but better quality.
3. Bottoms up.  Without the right bottoms, putting an outfit together can be frustrating. Try an ankle length slim cut trouser that will look fabulous with heels, flats or booties. I also love ankle length jeans because of their versatility. Bootcut and wider leg pants just aren't as easy to work with.
Again, invest in bottoms that flatter your shape...you may have to pay a little more but it's worth it.
4. Plain Jane.  70% of your tops should be solids...30% prints.  Solids are so much easier to accessorize and change up than prints. Also, we tend to get sick of prints over time.
5. Invest.  I am a huge fan of the vest.  I own 2 black (one fitted, one more casual), a denim and a white. A faux fur vest is also a fun addition to your winter wardrobe. I love how they can change up any look from a dress or skirt to jeans and a tee. Instant polish!
6. Perfect blazer.  Have a few amazing blazers in your wardrobe. Again, like the vest it will pull your outfit together.
7. Little black dress.  An LBD that can easily be dressed up or down is a wardrobe essential.  Look for one that is tailored and has a scoop neckline for easily layering and accessorizing.
9. Shoes are a girl's best friend. Honestly, it's true. Shoes can make or break your outfit. Your wardrobe should include fabulous flats, fun sneakers and heels that you can actually walk in.
10. Accessorize me.  Last, have a lots of fun accessories including scarves, bags and jewelry to switch up all those solids!

Bonus:  Every day wear at least one outstanding piece whether it be an amazing ring, fabulous bag, or killer shoes.  Oh and keep reading my blog for lots of outfit inspiration!

Click on photos for details.

Where is the last place you would expect to find unique clothing and accessories?
Museum gift shops?  Wrong.
Craft fairs?  Wrong
Flea markets?  Wrong.

Surprise, surprise...it's the hospital gift shop! More and more hospital gift shops are evolving into mini "boutiques" appealing to visitors, staff and even shoppers!

I recently took a trip to Lowell General Hospital where I met with the gift shop manager Donna Thoene.  Donna took over both The Lowell General Shop and The Saints Memorial gift shop (also in Lowell) a few years ago.  Back then they were the typical old-fashioned hospital gift shops run by volunteers carrying  "run of the mill" candy, trinkets and flowers---that is until Donna came into the picture! With a retail background, she stepped thing s up a notch by bringing in stylish clothing and accessories.


Manger Donna Thoene clearly loves her work! "Everyone loves to shop here" says Donna 
"We like to change things up so you never know what you'll find!"

So the proof is in the pudding right? Check out these fabulous finds.  The prices are extremely competitive --with jewelry starting at just over $10.00 (I saw many gorgeous pieces for $12.99!), most bags under $100 and tops under $50. Their bag selection includes Big Buddha, Vera Bradley,  and vegan bags Shiraleah and Laurenhide  (many are discounted).  And who doesn't love Alex and Ani bracelets? They have carry the full line!








For those who are visiting patients there are some great gift ideas too, including adorable baby items, stunning flower arrangements from Floral Arts Flowers of Westford, and delicious Nelson's Candy--sure to elicit a smile! The hospital also has a service where items can be purchased on-line and delivered to a patient's room.


So whats the best thing about shopping at Lowell General's gift shop? All profits go to charity! It's guilt-free shopping at its best! The LGH Auxiliary owns the gift shop which is one of their top producers. Over the past 5 years the Auxiliary has raised and donated $750,000 to the LGH Legacy Fund which financed the construction of the beautiful new Dahod Building. The Auxiliary has also recently donated a computer and game table to the LGH Cancer Center.

And to sweeten things up even more, the hospital offers FREE valet parking...great for those rainy shopping days!

For more information, contact Donna at 978.937.6373 or visit Lowell General online.