{outfit post} Ombré Stripes

Back in September when I won Project Style for the South Bay, I promised Jeannie Mai that I would use the prize money to elevate my blog. At the time I thought that meant buying some more pricey staples; maybe an LBD, some nice pumps and a good handbag. I didn't want to just drop all the money on one frivolous item. I have been shopping for months trying to figure out what I should buy with the money and I've spent a little hear and there. The problem which arises, is that I don't feel like just wasting the money on trendy clothing. It has been very difficult for me to actually spend the money (It's not actual cash, it's a gift card to the mall)! I know that sounds ludicrous, but it's true. It's amazing how free money, can turn into a stressor.

I'm probably being a bit ridiculous. All of my friends told me they would have spent all the money the first weekend they won. I'm just a little more calculated with my funds.. So getting to my point! Last weekend, I went to the Mall to try to spend some more of the money and I just felt like everything I found was a waste of time. My genius husband suggested we buy a new camera with the money. He thought I was going to immediately shut that idea down, but I realized a new camera would be the best way to elevate my blog, not clothes!

So, we went into Radio Shack and bought a Canon Rebel T3i! It was a large chunk of cash, but It's going to be so much more valuable to me than a Bodycon dress! Yesterday, we took the new camera out for a little photo sesh. Here is just one of the outfits we shot. We're getting used to the settings on the camera, but these aren't bad for our first time :)

Total Outfit Cost: $30.98

Estimated Retail: $260.99

{dress}
brand: Papaya
purchase price: $7.99
purchased from: The Goodwill
estimated retail: $20.99

{boots}
brand: Aldo
purchase price: $9.99
purchased from: The Goodwill
estimated retail: $180.00

{necklace}
brand: unknown
purchase price: $4.00
purchased from: Plato's Closet
estimated retail:$10.00

{bracelets}
brand: unknown
purchase price: $9.00/both
purchased from: The Goodwill/Plato's Closet
estimated retail:$50.00

You can also find My Thrifty Chic on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

{Link Ups}
Peacoats and Plaid
#Yolo Mondays