Do I have your attention now…?

I stopped by Nordstrom Rack in Laguna Hills. I was curious to see what didn’t sell at the “perfect” store and why it was shipped to the land of “misfit” apparel, accessories, and shoe island.

I’ve been to the “misfit” store back home on the East Coast (Paramus, NJ), and I like to compare everything – so bring on the West Coast! It must be the esthetician in me, sizing things up, and comparing (which should not be construed as a bad thing).

Being fairly new to Orange County, CA, my new friends are always telling me to check out this or that place. On my to-do list is a Cosmopolitan/Sex in the City dream called Fashion Island in Newport. I haven’t gotten there yet, but when I do, you will certainly know (I see a reality show on the horizon with a title like that)!

When I shop, I shop with the average girl’s wallet in mind (because that’s my wallet), and when I write, I try to “super size” the meal without the calories. I want my LC friends to walk away thinking, “Jo gave me great ideas, told me where to shop for nice things (at a good price) and didn’t throw in my face a Chanel bag that I can only dream of” (which, by the way, I still don’t own one).

So, back to my original thought. Let’s compare East vs. West racks! I love to shop, but only for a good deal. I like the challenge and always have a coffee on hand to help me through the rigors of such a sporting event.

I’m the kind of girl that needs to be aesthetically stimulated, and sometimes it’s hard for a store to pull off showcasing a ton of misfit merchandise and still look appealing. Regardless of the location, both stores pulled it off. Both locations are large, and of course have so many options. At times, it can blow my mind. Forget the coffee; they should sell cocktails while shopping!

Because of the climate difference, I think Laguna Hills has more “summertime” type clothing, where Paramus changes its stock according to the seasons (makes sense, Cali has pretty much one season). I have to say, I still find it difficult dressing in Southern California. I was out the other day wearing jeans, boots, camisole, blazer, and a fedora. At the same time I walked by a woman in shorts and flip-flops! What the hell…it’s January people! Just a hint: I don’t blend well and will not conform! I am definitely the Marisa Tomei (I just love her) of SoCal (just imagine me stomping my foot)!

Coach boots!

Gucci Wristlet

If you have the time, you can find some great deals. I scored these adorable Coach boots ($150.00) and Tory Burch jacket ($189.00). If you notice in my winery picture with my gorgeous friends, I am also sporting a Gucci bag. Truth be told, I purchased this bag from Bluefly three years ago. I didn’t pay full price (around $700), and I also purchased this Gucci wristlet (around $290-ish). My grand total was $1,000-ish for both bags and that was a bargain (it was my Christmas/birthday present). Here’s another piece of juicy information: because of my upbringing, when I purchase something, I will have it for the rest of my life (I mean it), especially when it costs this much money! I’m not the kind of girl who throws her money away and complains she doesn’t have anything nice. When I wanted to go to college – I paid for it, as well as real estate school, esthetician school, my wedding, house, cars, everything! It’s a good feeling to take ownership of yourself, be proud, and to owe others NOTHING!

Jo (left) in Tory Burch

So here are a few tips on savvy shopping:

1. Save, save, save, for that rainy day.
2. Go online and compare prices.
3. Don’t just buy because you can.
4. Go for a beautiful staple piece
5. Jackets, purses, dresses, and shoes are my staple items.
6. Go designer vintage – but make it a staple item!

Some of my favorite online stores:
• Bluefly
• Nasty Gal
• Zappos
• Net-A-Porter

I am a firm believer that you should never pay full price when shopping. Take your time, plan ahead, and only get what you need. If an item has taken you hostage, get free, think about it, and if necessary go back to the store tomorrow with handcuffs!

xo, jo

p.s.  I would love to see you in your favorite “staples!”

Jo in Temecula