And so it begins...

"Hi, I'm sorry. This is really random, and I don't usually do this but..."

I know exactly where this is going.

"What do you think of this outfit? I mean, would you wear this?"

I quickly look over the outfit in question, a cobalt blue sweater dress with black leggings. Unfortunately for this young lady, she left her socks on, which is a huge pet peeve of mine, but other than that the outfit is really cute. I give her my enthusiastic approval while my friend giggles away in the dressing room. Why is she giggling? Because this scenario has become all too common (and much appreciated!) in my shopping adventures.

But now I have finally decided to do something about it.

Shopping and fashion have always been important aspects in my life. From coveting a jean skirt at the age of seven, way before they were in style, to lusting after Christian Louboutin Lady Claude pumps as an adult, I have no shame in admitting I love the shopping world.

I love dressing up and dressing down. I love trying on clothes and selecting outfits for friends. I love altering clothes in my mind and adding that perfect "Amanda" touch while still on the mannequin. All in all, show me some clothes and I am a happy girl.

While I may have little to no experience in textiles, sewing, or the basic knowledge you learn in Freshmen year of fashion school, I do have a passion that cannot be beat. I live and breathe daily in the fashion world, and I am ready to help you do so (or even do it for you!) I have been "styling" those around me since high school. I have been a body double to pick out a best friends prom dress, picked out every formal outfit for my fashion-challenged twin sister since middle school, and dressed my very own parents for select family functions and weddings. My fiance has given me full reign of his closet and has even resorted to letting me pack for him on trips where he needs to "look like I belong with...you!" (His words, not mine!)

But what makes me truly want to start this venture is the fact that almost on a weekly basis I get stopped in reference to one piece of my outfit. "What a darling skirt," and "Cute belt!" are always followed by, "Where did you get it?"

Well world, keep reading, and you shall find out. My mission is to share my secrets and shopping successes with you. There is nothing I would love more than to help the world become thrifty shoppers just like me.

So continue to follow along and I hope you will be inspired!

Much love,
Amanda
The Thrifty Shopaholic