Sometimes you need to make your own shade in the bright glare of the summer sun. I’m careful with my sun exposure, so lightweight, long sleeve cotton tunics are a great option to keep covered up.

This gauzy, patterned blouse from Talbots was perfect to keep cool up while enjoying warm summer days. The print reminds me of a trip to Greece and the 100% cotton fabric is soft and comfortable. It’s also washer safe, which saves on my dry cleaning bills. Who am I kidding? I don’t typically buy anything that needs dry cleaning! I snagged this blue beauty on one of the recent 50% off days at my local Goodwill Keystone Area, so it was under $2.50. When new, it would have sold for around $89!

I paired it with crisp, white cotton/spandex shorts from Ann Taylor. The cotton keeps you comfortable, while the addition of the spandex gives a bit of stretch and helps the shorts keep their shape. They were $4.50 but sell for $49 online. Quality white shorts, jeans or a blouse are always a great buy because they are classic and timeless.

In the spirit of reduce, reuse and recycle I added a Van’s tote which I featured a few weeks ago on the blog. The colors matched perfectly and it gave me a new way to style the bag. It retailed for $80; my Goodwill price was $6.97. I also reused the metallic sandals from a spring shoot. In that post I noted that the neutral metallic color elongates the leg and suggested I wear them with a tunic top and now I am!

In the summer you might have to be a little more covered up – to protect you from the sun or the icy cold air conditioning of your office – and wearing lightweight fabrics helps keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day. And they will also transition well into fall which is right around the corner!

From my closet to yours,
Kirsten

Blouse: $2.50
Shorts: $4.50
Sandals: $6.97
Bag: $6.97
Total: $20.94
Retail: $275+

About The Blogger

Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill Keystone Area stores to decorate her home and wardrobe.

This is the last of my shot-on-location posts from the sunny Florida Keys, where my family and I spent a fun-filled week on vacation earlier this month.

When I pack for a getaway, especially to somewhere tropical, I pack all the festive colors, textures and patterns I can. And I’ve been saving this maxi dress for just this occasion! Maxi dresses immediately remind me of summer and you can dress them up or down, for almost any occasion. This one from the Live and Let Live brand has a beautiful floral paisley print and is accented with metallic studs around the neckline. These dresses sell for around $50, but I saved almost 90% and picked it up for $5.50 at Goodwill.

It can be hard to find maxi dresses for my petite height, but with the silver bejeweled wedge sandals from New York Transit, it was just perfect. New York Transit is known for the strappy, metallic sandals that sell at a variety of retailers from Boscov’s to Macy’s to DSW. Their price points range from about $25 – $75. This pair was purchased fro $6.97 at my local Goodwill Keystone Area store.

For accessories, I added a classic black and ivory print leather wristlet from Coach. This is one of my go-to bags when I need something stylish and functional to finish off an outfit. Bags of this size from Coach are typically around $99, but my cost at Goodwill was $6.97.

Lastly, a new-with-tags necklace from definitely made a statement, but did not overwhelm the intricately patterned dress. And $3.97 was a great price.

Although I didn’t get to go thrifting on my vacation, almost 90% of what I wore was from Goodwill Keystone Area. Being thrifty with my wardrobe and housewares lets me spend my money on things that are more important to me including spending quality time with my family.

From my closet to yours,
Kirsten

Dress: $5.50
Sandals: $6.97
Wristlet: $6.97
Necklace: $3.97
Total: $23.41
Retail: $230

About The Blogger

Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill Keystone Area stores to decorate her home and wardrobe.

You may think that being a fashion blogger for Goodwill Keystone Area is my full-time job (and wouldn’t that be cool!), but I have a brand new full-time career opportunity where my organization motivates girls to get active through a positive and educational program.

So, I decided that I need to be more active and positive, so the first step (of course) was getting a few new work out outfits that flatter my figure. Squeezing into clothing that doesn’t fit properly on your current body doesn’t make anyone feel good.

I turned to my local Goodwill store to help me achieve that goal. While some people may prefer simple, all black activewear outfits, I always turn to colors and patterns for my wardrobe – no matter what I’m doing and wearing. I started with these vibrant and fun full-length leggings from Ideology. This brand is sold at various retailers from Macy’s to Amazon. A description from their website says that “A gym essential, Ideology’s versatile stretch leggings keep you moving through your toughest workouts!” And I sure hope so! They retailed for around $29.99, but Goodwill’s price was $6.50!

After finding the leggings, I needed a coordinating top and this turquoise Under Armor Heat Gear tank was exactly what I wanted! Under Armor is a popular brand and a great find for $4.50. They sell for around $25 when new.

I like my new work out outfit and I love that I can find a wide variety of clothing from wear-to-work outfits to work out clothing at Goodwill Keystone Area stores. Check your local store for whatever your wardrobe needs might be!

From my closet to yours,
Kirsten

About The Blogger

Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill Keystone Area stores to decorate her home and wardrobe.

The calendar may say July, but department stores are starting to advertise back-to-school and fall looks while summer outfits are still the everyday norm. Do you know who still has racks of bathing suits, cover-ups and shorts and tees? Goodwill Keystone Area, that’s who!

On a recent vacation to the Florida Keys, I sported a completely thrifted poolside outfit from my local Goodwill. The patterned bathing suit from Figleaves was purchased new-with-tags for $4.00 at one of the recent 50% off sales at my local Goodwill store. Their brand of suits retail for approximately $70 online. The trendy polka dots and ruching add fun and detail to a simple tank suit.

I paired it with a flowing blue and white striped cover-up that was accented with pink embellishments. It has a tie closure and perfect for throwing on top of a swimsuit or over a tank top and skinny jeans with sandals for a summer night out.

To carry around my books, sunscreen and other necessities, a roomy and colorful Lauren Ralph Lauren leather tote was the perfect accessory. I scored this bag for $6.97, but it sold new for about $228! Not a bad deal – I saved 97% off retail!

There’s still plenty of summer fun to be had! Visit your local Goodwill Keystone Area store to pick up some summer necessities for your summer trip to the beach, lake or local pool.

From my closet to yours,
Kirsten

Swimsuit: $4.00 (half off day- originally $8.00)
Cover up: $6.50
Bag: $6.97
Total: $17.47
Retail: $325+

About The Blogger

Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill Keystone Area stores to decorate her home and wardrobe.

I’ve talked about finding favorite brands among the Goodwill Keystone Area racks before and Banana Republic is one of brands I search out because I know it offers consistent quality and classic appeal. Finding those labels is always a nice surprise.

According to their company website, “Banana Republic was founded in 1978 by Mel and Patricia Ziegler, who originally called the company “Banana Republic Travel & Safari Clothing Company.” The original concept for the company was to sell items that fit a safari theme. In 1983, Gap purchased the company, changed the name to “Banana Republic,” and rebranded the stores to achieve a more upscale image.

Customers shop Banana Republic for “versatile, contemporary classics, designed for today with style that endures. Through thoughtful design, we create clothing and accessories with detailed craftsmanship in luxurious materials.”

This pattern on this black ¾ sleeve shift dress reminds me of fireworks on hot summer night. It would have retailed for around $119, but my cost at Goodwill was $5.50. I’ll be able to transition this dress into fall or winter with tights boots and a blazer.

To bring out the colors in the dress, I added a small pink cross-body bag from Tignanello and a beaded purple and gold necklace. These accessories don’t overwhelm the festiveness of the dress, but add just the right touch to finish the look.

Lastly, strappy black patent and rattan sandals from NY&CO completed this perfect summer evening out look. They would have sold for about $59.99.

You can find even better deals on your favorite brands through July 4th! Shop Goodwill’s 99¢ Sale, details here!

Whatever your favorite brand is, you can most likely find it at Goodwill Keystone Area stores. Mall store labels at thrifty prices!

From my closet to yours,
Kirsten

Dress: $5.50
Bag: $4.97
Shoes: $6.97
Necklace: $3.97
Total: $21.41
Retail: $275+

About The Blogger

Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill Keystone Area stores to decorate her home and wardrobe.

Warm humid days with cooler evenings are here and dressing in light playful prints and colors are just what the season ordered. Strapless dresses are a fun summer look and when you throw on a classic denim jacket, you have a perfect June outfit.

My friend Jeanette is modeling an adorable strapless cotton print dress. The yellow, blues and white evoke a beachy vibe for a night on the boardwalk. You could add a cardigan or a light jacket when the sun sets and temps drop, but a jean jacket is so Americana and my favorite go-to piece for an extra layer. This one is from Guess, a class American denim brand, and the faded grey/black wash makes it unique.

To pick up the colors in the dress, I added a yellow snake-skin print clutch. It has plenty of room for your phone, lip gloss, etc. but doesn’t overwhelm the outfit. Yellow has been a popular color this spring and snakeskin print is popping up all over my fashion feed!

Metallic wedge sandals from Kenneth Cole Reaction are a nice neutral choice for footwear. The platform of these sandals makes them easy to wear and elongates the leg. These are very versatile and could be worn with skinny jeans and a tunic top for a more casual look.

Finally, to pick up on those colors again, I added a navy beaded necklace. Jewelry at Goodwill Keystone Area stores is so affordable, that I stock up on unique pieces when I find them, even if I don’t have anything to pair with them – yet!

Summer calls for light and bright outfits, layered looks and colorful pops of accessories. And all these things are readily available at your local Goodwill Keystone Area store! Get out and get shopping!

From my closet to yours,
Kirsten

Dress: $5.50
Jacket: $10.00
Clutch: $6.97
Shoes: $6.97
Necklace: $1.97

Total: $31.41
Retail: $320+

About The Blogger

Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill Keystone Area stores to decorate her home and wardrobe.

Summer is officially here! Lazy warm days, beautiful sunsets, weddings, trips to the beach… it’s all going on in June. It’s time to break out the sandals, maxi dresses and summer accessories including the iconic summer straw bag. According to Harper’s Bazaar (June 7, 2019) “The versatile straw bag is a spring/summer staple, as wearable in the city with jeans as it is on the beach.”

Embrace the warm, summer weather with straw bags from clutches to totes to carry-alls. And, at Goodwill Keystone Area, you can find all those styles and more. Whether you are looking for a small bag to accessorize a garden party or a wedding or a large tote to fit your beach necessities, Goodwill has got you covered at prices that won’t break the bank. And those prices are even better on Wednesday, June 26th, when the next 50% off sale is happening at your local store! See sale details and find a Goodwill near you, click here.

If you’re looking for a feminine clutch for a more formal event, this embroidered floral clutch fits the bill. $4.97 is a great price for this vintage-style bag. You could also pair it with jeans and a t-shirt for a casual night out

This simple utilitarian tote is just perfect for a visit to the beach. The open-weave beige rattan bag lets the sand sift out while keeping your necessities inside and the red leather handles add a pop of color. I found this bag at and Goodwill Outlet and paid less than $1.00!

Finally, this more modern and trendy bag from VANS (yes, the sneaker brand!) would make a great summer purse. It’s lined with fabric that cinches closed and has pockets to your small items don’t get lost. And the navy, grey, teal and purple make it coordinate with lots of colors in your wardrobe. This bad retailed for $80 when new, so $6.97 makes it a great buy!

Be sure and check your local Goodwill store for seasonal accessories. Straw bags are a timeless summer item that you’ll reach for every year.

From my closet to yours,
Kirsten

Embroidered clutch: $4.97
Beige tote with red handles: $1.00
Vans blue tote bag: $6.97

About The Blogger

Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill Keystone Area stores to decorate her home and wardrobe.

This weekend, you might be celebrating all types of moms: moms, grandmothers, bonus-moms, pet moms or anyone like-a-mother to you. And that might include taking them out to brunch (or lunch or dinner).

A meal out is a nice way to celebrate the mom in your life. And going out can mean dressing up! For me, dressing up almost always means a dress. This embellished, graphic printed, raglan-sleeve dress from Michael Kors is a beauty. I love the pink and black pattern and the loose cut and flattering fit. It’s also made of an easy-care fabric that I can throw in the washer (Moms love that!). I paid $5.50, but Micheal Kors dresses like this retail for around $150.

I got lucky and found black and rattan platform sandals, also from Michael Kors for $9.97. They would have sold for about $140 at the mall. Michael Kors is one of my favorite brands to look for at Goodwill Keystone Area stores. The designs are always very classic and timeless and hold up well against current trends.

Since the dress had an embellishment at the neck, I did not wear a necklace, but did add oversized hoops. The bag I carried was Kenneth Cole New York and would have been valued at $150, but my cost was $6.97 at Goodwill.

Spending time with mom could also mean shopping. Why not treat her to a trip to your local Goodwill Keystone Area store? You might find some designer brands at great prices while spending quality time with her, combing the racks for treasures!

From my closet to yours,
Kirsten

Dress: $5.50
Purse: $6.97
Shoes: $9.97
Hoops: $1.97
Total: $24.41
Retail: $470+

About The Blogger

Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill Keystone Area stores to decorate her home and wardrobe.

April showers are prepping us for lots of May flowers. It’s the time of year when florals and pastels come bursting on the scene, filling the mall stores and shops with lots of colorful fashion choices.

But, neither of those things – florals or pastels – are a new trend, so finding them at your local Goodwill Keystone Area store is as easy as perusing the racks of your neighborhood location. And from May 1 – 5, you can get $10 off a $30 purchase with your Goodwill Keystone Area Rewards Card. Click here to find out more!

My friend, Laurie, is modeling a black and floral-print Lauren Conrad dress. Lauren Conrad is an actress, turned fashion designer, who has a line of clothing and accessories at Kohls. According to the website “The LC Lauren Conrad collection is inspired by the carefree yet confident designer herself. Brought to life by modern silhouettes, softly feminine details and inviting home decor, the collection is designed for a chic, effortless lifestyle. Her clothing is affordable, but by finding this dress at Goodwill, it was downright thrifty.

This fun spring dress would have retailed for about $50 at Kohls, but I saved almost 90% by picking it up for $5.50 at Goodwill.

I paired it with a pastel pink handbag with neon accents from Jessica Simpson. Simpson is another singer/actress turned fashion designer. Both ladies are doing quite well with their respective lines. This bag sold for about $100 at stores like Boscov’s or Macy’s, but again, I saved almost 90% and snagged it for $10.

Finally, strappy black and gold sandals from Classified (retail – $30; my cost $6.97) accent the black in the dress without being too heavy for the warming spring weather. And a multi-chain gold necklace complimented the gold in the sandals nicely without overwhelming the delicate floral dress.

Start searching those Goodwill racks for light, sunny and spring fashions and save even more with the upcoming sale!

From my closet to yours,
Kirsten

Dress: $5.50
Purse: $10.00
Shoes: $6.97
Necklace: $3.97
Total: $25.91
Retail: $210+

About The Blogger

Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill Keystone Area stores to decorate her home and wardrobe.

Feeling cute might go donate half my closet to Goodwill later just in time for their 50% Off Sale on Sunday, April 28th (sale details here!).

Recently, I’ve changed my style opting for a neutral, rockabilly look for my day to day outfits. How lucky am I that I found another beautiful pair of vintage Levi’s jeans! These usually sell for over $50 even on resale sites, it seriously feels so lucky! I didn’t even have to touch my sewing machine they just fit perfectly.

A bold grid sweater top adds such a trendy vibe to this look & keeps me warm on those chillier days.

It’s so funny surprising my friends with looks like this that are 100% thrifted, they are always impressed. Who can guess the only new things I’m wearing are the hat & earrings.

Can’t wait for the sale on the 28th to see if my jean luck holds out. Just for my thrifty Instagram followers (@chicrevolt treasures ), I’m giving @goodwillkeystonearea a special collection of my vintage hats and handmade clothing! Will you find some of my donated clothing during your thrifting hunt? If you aren’t grabbing all your friends for a little retail self-care on the 28th, you’re missing out.