90% off? Yes, please!

Y'all know how I love a sale. I've been eye-balling this sweater at Kohl's since January and it FINALLY went on sale for 90% off. Paying 80% off was clearly just too much for me :)

Sweater: Dana Buchman @ Kohl's 

Jeans: Seven @ DressBarn

Unseen tank: Old Navy

Flats: Kate Spade

Bag: Michael Kors

Sunnies: Target

The light and exposure on this photo is a little off, but that's what I get for taking just one pic and hoping for the best. I really love this sweater and for $7.60, wish it came in every color of the rainbow. The keyhole at the top is crazy low if left unattended. I wore a solid black tank underneath just to err on the safe side. Don't want the boobies hanging out ALL the time, right?

Messy shoes and info about the J. Crew distribution center outlet

Ever notice something about your outfit AFTER you've taken pics of it? Something you wish you noticed BEFORE you left the house? That's me today. Please disregard the big glob of mortar on my left shoe. Al was tiling our shower enclosure last night and when I got home I hopped right in to help and must have stepped in the mortar. Whoops! It's gonna be hell getting it off these boots :(

Black sweater: Old Navy

Jeans: Levi's

Scarf: J. Crew

Boots: Target










So remember how I got married back in September? Well we honeymooned in Asheville, NC and wouldn't you know but the J. Crew distribution center was about 10 minutes from our cabin. Al still thinks I planned that on purpose, but I swear I didn't. And what could be better than being 10 minutes from a J. Crew factory outlet? Oh being there the weekend they do their semi-annual warehouse sale!

We stood in line for probably an hour (thank goodness it was mild out) and got to dig through boxes and boxes and boxes. I would have taken a pic but cameras weren't allowed. Al and I split up and started digging. We ended up finding more for him than for me (figures) but we scored some AMAZING deals. This silk scarf was $3! I also picked up a few headbands, some gloves, and a couple of hats. Al found sweaters and some ties. Their actual store is far more organized and I was able to find a top and a cardigan there.

If you're ever in the Asheville, NC area, I highly recommend stopping by. The J. Crew distribution center and factory store are actually in Arden, NC but it's very easy to find and GPS-able. It's like any other outlet, hit or miss and usually off-season. They did have a nice selection of wedding and bridal party dresses. I don't remember the prices, but I do remember I wasn't bummed about missing out on a deal. I bought my wedding dress from J. Crew on clearance and it wasn't much more expensive than the outlet prices.

If I can get my you-know-what together, I'll snap a couple pics of what we bought and the prices. I actually saved the receipts so I could report back!

Closeup of scarf. I just love these colors together and was tickled that it had black in it instead of brown. You usually find brown w/these colors and I'm just not a brown-wearing girl. Black hides the black dog fur better!

Keeping it cheap and staying warm

I'm not going to even start complaining about all the snow we're getting, seeing as how the rest of the country seems to be getting WAY more than we are. However, HOLY CRAP. SNOW!!!!

Python print cardi: NY&Co.

Fancy black tshirt: Target

Denim pencil skirt: Lands End

Tights: George via Walmart

Flats: Sam Edelman

Necklace: Gift

Bracelet: Coach




I scored this super cute tshirt at Target for $3 a couple of weeks ago. I am a sucker for plain, classic pieces and this was a great deal for such a nice design.

How pretty is that ruffled flower? I'm going to keep an eye out for more "interesting" tshirts to wear under cardigans because I think this is MUCH dressier and special.

Any big weekend plans with your sweetie? Al's promised me he'd finish our countertops this weekend. That's all the present I could ask for. Having a sink IN THE KITCHEN (and not washing dishes in the bath tub) and being able to cook w/out balancing dishes on the top of a yet-to-be-hung cabinet or in the toaster oven will be a real treat.

Nothin' to see here, folks...

Oh MAN. It's been a month since I last posted and I can't even make excuses. Holidays, work, house, wedded bliss blah blah blah. I won't bore you, so on with the outfits!

Cardi: Target

Top: Target

Pants: Old Navy

Flats: Liz Claiborne

Necklace: gift

I bought this cardi and top at the same time (the day before our wedding) to wear together on our honeymoon. Wouldn't you know the weather didn't cooperate so the need never arose. Then I got all side-tracked with all the other stuff going on in my life (I'm a smidge overwhelmed, y'all) and completely forgot.

Last night, while organizing my "closet," I saw these two and remembered how I wanted to wear them and figured now was as good of a time as any. It's our 12th day in a row w/below freezing temps. To you gals up north, that's nothing, but for Kentucky? It's approaching a record and all the weather dudes are blabbing about it. SNORE.

I had the joy and privilege of working both the day before AND after Christmas this year so jeans to the office it was! I didn't take a pic the day before but trust me - it was way cuter than this!

Cardi: Old Navy

Black T: Old Navy

Jeans: Levi's via Santa Mama

Flats: Sam Edelman

This isn't very remarkable and you've probably seen it before, but I'm nothing but honest w/you gals. I don't create outfits days in advance or even the night before. I just grab and pull and figure it out in the morning while Sonicare-ing my teeth. Gives me two minutes of uninterrupted outfit-picking. I also have a formula and a uniform that works for me and know I can always go to it. If this were VH1 I'd be claiming to be "keeping it real." Just so you know :)

I made a big ole promise to talk about the wedding and my dress and the reception and that dress and MY SHOES but I'm experiencing technical difficulties. See, when we moved, we stored 90% of our stuff in a building on our property. That translates to "I don't know where that is, honey. Stop asking me." when it comes to everything. Bless Al's heart. He can't find a thing either. Anyway, my laptop is accounted for but you couldn't pay me to find the cord. No clue but I'm sure it'll turn up eventually. I don't have the time to put the pics up at work and that's really the only other option. Oh and we don't have internet at home. Have I mentioned we're sleeping in the room where our kitchen will be? And that my "closet" is our sunroom? Okay. Just wanted to make sure y'all knew what I was working with. :)

Blue, brown and bruised

My camera battery died a couple of days ago and I never seem to remember to charge it until I'm ready to snap a pic. I've got to remember to charge it over the weekend b/c the cell phone pics? No good. It's really cloudy in Louisville this morning so there's not much natural light in the office. You can't really even see the colors or details of this outfit, but here it is anyway. I'm trying to make time to post more often and if I start skipping days, well, you know what happens :)

Blue cardigan: NY&Co.

Brown top: NY&Co.

Jeans: Levi Strauss Signature

Flats: Clarks

Necklace: gift










I feel like I look like a giant bruise today. It's appropriate because my legs are covered in them. I almost always have one on the bottom of each thigh because I can't seem to clear the foot board of our bed. I've had this bed for 4+ years and I still run right into it almost every day. Doesn't matter if the lights are on/off, if I'm awake/tired, or if Maddy is being a hurdle. I'll still run right into the corner of it and usually I hit the same spot over and over so it feels REALLY GOOD. I've managed to pick up several new bruises out at the house because it seems like the place is booby trapped just for me. Lots of things to trip over, fall onto, and run into. Did I ever mention I'm super graceful?

Weekend -- Ally

Whew! I'm am TIRED. Like, really really really tired. We closed on our house last Friday (the 14th) and have spent our evenings and weekends working. Lots of landscaping has been cleaned up and we've gutted the kitchen down to the studs. The bathroom will get a similar treatment this weekend. My parents have been beyond helpful with everything and we're very fortunate to have them not only able to help but willing. Anyone in the area want to knock down some walls? We can consider it free therapy. Call me :)

Ruffle shirt: NY&Co.

Green ruffle cardi: Old Navy

Denim skirt: Geoffery Beane

Flats: Sam Edelman

Headband: Goody

Necklace: gift








I am (usually) never one to whine or complain about going to work. I genuinely enjoy what I do and the people with whom I work. I do get a little fussy about working Saturdays, but let me tell ya. I am THRILLED to be at work today b/c that means a "break" for me. No chainsaws, pry bars, scoop shovels, or eye protection are involved in my work day!!

Here's what my attire has consisted of:
Tank tops, jeans and boots.

I know you're all kinds of jealous.

Tank: NY&Co.

Jeans: Levis

Boots: Frye (not shown)

Gloves: Kid's mechanics gloves via Harbor Freight


Sometimes I look a teeny bit cuter. The only reason I'm wearing this shirt is b/c Al packed my work clothes bag for me. When I saw the shirt he put in there he could tell he got it all wrong and said, "But I've never seen you wear it! It must be a crap shirt, right?" No, honey. You've not seen me wear it much b/c it's NEW and I've only worn it once. Hahaha Oh well. It's no worse for wear and now I'll remember to pack my own bag.

Peacock tshirt: Target

Jeans: Levis

Boots: Frye (not shown)

Screwdriver: Craftsman











I hope you all have a great weekend! I'll be workin' workin' so keep me entertained in the comments section :)

Ally - Target floral flats

The weather has been HOT lately and today was no different. I'm not tropical and can't WAIT for snow. That's right. I said it.

Wrap/tie top: NY&Co.

Green tank: Target

denim pencil skirt: Lands' End

necklace: Sarah Balmer via Scout

flats: Target








Last September I scored these flats for under $6 and I've definitely gotten my money's worth! E at Academichic has the closed-toe version of these. They're so versatile!

I'd say the cost-per-wear of these is below $.25 at this point. What do you have in your closet that you've really gotten your money's worth from??

Just imagine the cost-per-wear you can get out of shoes and other clothes when you buy wholesale clothing. The prices are such much lower when you buy multiple items! 

No outfit synergy here

Denim Jacket: Gap

White Wrap Tee: CAbi (Spring 2009)

Chino Skirt: J Crew

Pumps: MIA

We always say how taking a picture makes you see an outfit differently. I felt so cute and sassy in my stripe pumps getting ready today. But when I looked at the picture, I don't like the outfit. I'm not sure what it is. I think maybe the proportion is wrong on the denim jacket? Not sure. I just know I'm not a fan of today's picture but don't know why. I like all the pieces individually--I'm just not liking them together for whatever reason. Don't ya hate it when that happens??

Answering your questions re: my CAbi collection

Scarf: Macy's (it has shoes on it, hehe!!)

White Wrap Tee: CAbi (Spring 2009--I love these thin wrap tees and seriously always purchase every color because they are my go-to tee because they hide oh-so-much on this apple shaped gal)

Black Ankle Pants: CAbi (Spring 2009)

Denim Jacket: Gap (Bought for $10 at the outlet on vacation 2 years ago!)

Pumps: Pleaser

I've been asked before about my CAbi clothes and how I consider them "cheap" as in the name of our blog. I wanted to take a moment to answer your questions.

CAbi clothes are by no means "cheap" -- many of them are more investment pieces that may cost a bit more than a regular store (I would estimate CAbi to be in the Ann Taylor price demographic--but will say the Spring 09 season, 90% of the items were under $100 which made this gal quite pleased) but have great fit and quality so for me, end up being worth it. As we've said before, I tend to invest more in clothing basics as opposed to accessories--just my personal style. However, I have a good friend who always thought I was insane (to put it mildly) to spend a little more on clothing but joined me for a party once and ended up buying a wrap tee and jeans. She told me later it was totally worth it-- she had other black shirts and jeans in her closet but she never wore them anymore and was getting rid of them because they just didn't compare. She's now a regular every season and it is really her main shopping of the year! For basics that you'll wear for years and with everything, I think it can be worth it if you find a great fit/cut/fabric.

So back to the original question of how I get the clothing at a "cheap" price.....understand what we consider "cheap" is always relative to each individual, but I will say I didnt pay full price for all the items I own. I have for some great pieces and will continue to on occasion, but I absolutely have more items than I would otherwise because of their great hostess benefits. Depending on the amount sold at your show, you can get a select number of items at half price and even cash off in some instances! In addition, each consultant sells their sample line at the end of the season (first dibs to hostesses, then attendees) at a significant discount so I have put some items aside for the end of the season before (sort of like layaway!). I've been hosting shows and attending for several years so have built up quite the collection. You'll notice that I've started marking the collection date when I can remember so you all dont think it all came from a recent season. Many items are several years old now but they just build year after year.

I hope that explains and makes more sense to you. If you've never been to a party, I would encourage you to attend one or host one just to check the clothes out. Many times at home parties I know you are pressured to buy but CAbi is completely not like that--great if you see something you like (you probably will!) and ok if you don't--I've had people attend and not buy and it's always ok. But it's a great way to shop with friends and get new ideas on how to mix and match what you may already have in your closet--that's my personal favorite part.

We always love reader questions at Cute on the Cheap about our clothes, style, advice, etc. Feel free to email us and we'll respond with either a private or public answer--whatever you prefer!

Weekend -- Ally

I'm admittedly a little lazy and a bit of a slacker when it comes to some stuff, and this blog entry is no different. I have a BIG weekend of horseracing, brunching, and celebrating going on, so these pics are from last weekend. I planned ahead, ladies. The only reason I even mention these are old pics, is b/c of the rain boots. You local ladies will know we have nothing but clear and sunny skies in our forecast, but last weekend was another story. Sunny then rain then sun again.

We went out with some friends and I was in no mood to get cute shoes all wet and dirty so I wore my trusty rain boots:
Cardi: Target

T-shirt: Old Navy

Denim pencil skirt: Lands' End

Leopard belt: JCP

Necklace: Ice.com (check back tomorrow for more about this necklace!)

rain boots: Payless

Per usual, you'll have to excuse the lack of make up. I usually put it on in the car en route to dinner/drinks :)





Sunday was Easter and nothing is Springy to me more than polka dots, pink and green:
Cardi: same from above, Target

Dress: Target

Belt: NY&Co.

Necklace: Walmart

Shoes: Target

Sunnies: MaxStudio

Bracelets: Old Navy

Bag: Furla




As you may remember, Leslie and I both have this dress and once, even wore it on the same day :) I've had this dress for a while and it's so versatile. Of all the places I've worn it, this is my favorite. Can you guess where I am??


Note: Not a former boyfriend; just a friend. And no, he's not an alien with no face. Merely protecting the innocent!

Weekend -- Ally

I hope everyone is having a great weekend. I worked Saturday and am going to dinner with Al afterward. I'm far too lazy to change clothes so I dressed up jeans.

Cardi: NY&Co

Graphic t: Target

Gray jeans: Old Navy

Flats: Sam Edelman

Michelle Obama pearls: Walmart








The gorgeous E always looks so cute in her graphic t-shirts with cardigans and I was telling her how I just can't wear the look. Crew necks look awful on me and I just didn't think it'd work. She suggested I wear one with a cardigan or a blazer and I promised I'd try. I think it worked and it is super comfortable.

I'm especially excited about these jeans. They're also SO not my style. I don't do anything other than dark wash denim, but these were on sale back in October for $14 at Old Navy so I gave them a shot. Of course, Old Navy's wonky sizing meant these were WAY TOO SMALL when they arrived. Disgusted, I shoved them in my closet. I found them the other day and thought, "Hum...what the hell!" and they fit! I'm more excited about fitting in the jeans than how they look to be honest. You know how that is! :)

Weekend -- Ally

How about this weather??? It's 74 as I type this and we're expecting a record high today. We had snow just a few weeks ago - it's crazy but welcomed!

Sweater: NY&Co.

Navy cami: Old Navy

Denim pencil skirt: Lands' End

Tights: Target

Boots: Frye

Scarf: vintage Echo

Bracelets: Old Navy




I've decided I don't care for the Target tights. They're the same price as the Walmart ones, but they're SO SHEER and look really cheap because of that. The Walmart/George ones are much more opaque and have a softer waistband.

This is the color my boots started off but after a couple of years of wear, they're so much more worn and I love them.

Classic Chic

Denim Jacket: Gap

Black Lace Tee: CAbi

Black Pants: Harold's

Red Bracelet: Forever 21

Pumps: Pleaser

Sometimes you don't need to over think an outfit. Today was one of those days. I was standing in my closet, feeling uninspired in all black and was debating on what jacket to wear. Then I saw the denim and thought black, denim and punches of red would be perfect.

Is it anything revolutionary? No. But do I always feel classic and chic in this ensemble (especially walking down the street with my red patent purse and oversize sunglasses)? You bet.

Casual Desk Day

Denim Jacket: Gap

Red Shirt: Brooks Brothers

Flannel Cargo Pants: The Limited

Heels: Rampage

I debated on even posting today because I feel like I look pretty plain jane. But there is a reason I do. Today is a true "desk day" meaning I have no meetings, have a ton of writing to do and will literally be held hostage to my desk all day. As I was getting ready I was looking at some cute blazers to wear and then I thought, "No one is going to see me, I'm going to be typing and researching all day long...I may as well just go for basic comfort." So that's what I did.

I do have on my cute earrings though I received about 10 years ago from my friend Jessee. I still love them as much as I did when she gave them to me! They are a little squares with a black bead in the middle and then surrounding various colors all around. I tried to take a picture but my camera wouldn't zoom in and focus on them. I just feel the need to let you know that my outfit isn't 100% completely boring, thanks to the earrings!

New Outerwear Addition

Jacket: Ann Taylor Loft



Hanky Wrap Tee (not seen): CAbi



Jeans: Sundown fit from Lucky Brand Jeans



Pumps: Nine West



I've mentioned my love of outerwear numerous times before. A girl can never own too many winter coats as far as I'm concerned! However, it is bad enough that my mother adamently refuses to purchase outwear for me on principle. Thank goodness my dad doesn't!



Every year on Christmas Eve, we get special gifts picked out by Dad just for his girls. This coat was this year's Daddy present. As I gleefully opened it, my mom announced that she had nothing to do with it! Haha. I do love the coat though!



I got a new pair of Lucky Jeans shopping the day after Christmas--they were 50% off! I basically only wear my Cabi pair and my old Lucky pair but they were getting too worn out so I replaced them with these. I actually like these better--before I wore the sweet and low which is a mid rise, easy fit, flare. These are a mid rise, slim fit, bootcut which I like much better.



I am a huge fan of premium denim. I used to own close to ten pair of jeans--but didn't really love any of them. Now I own only 2 or 3--I pay more for them but they feel better, fit better, look better, etc. I have succeeded in convincing my mom and sister as well! Mom broke down a while back but Ashley held on but seeing the 50% off sale, she decided she could finally be convinced! Maybe they'll do a guest post in their new hottie jeans one day for us!

Weekend -- Ally

Tracey and I both had a day off and we spent it together. We had the BEST day and it was some much-needed BFF time.

We started off with brunch at Toast on Market, did a little shopping on Market Street, and moved on to the mall for a Sephora and Coach stop. After that, I popped in the salon to get my bangs trimmed (Finally!!!) then we ended the day at Churchill Downs for their Fall Meet. I won a whopping $5! We met up w/Al and some friends for dinner/drinks and called it a day. It was the ultimate battery charge for us both!

I can't stop wearing this wrap despite it being difficult to wear. I gave up on tying it and just let it hang! I had a lady stop me on the street to compliment it, so it couldn't have been that bad!
Wrap sweater: Target

Thin, black long sleeved T: Old Navy

Denim pencil skirt: Lands' End

Green tights: Target

Boots: Payless

Bag: Furla

Jasper stone necklace: Sarah Balmer via Scout

Sunnies: MaxStudio




Isn't this necklace beautiful?? Scout was having their holiday open house and everything was 20% off. I couldn't resist!!! It's so heavy and substantial too.

I love the colors of the stones - you know it'll match anything.







All smiles after a couple $2 Hurricanes and $2 bets!

Monday -- Ally

Fall is here! Finally!!! The weather has been in the 40s today and I couldn't be more excited. This is the last pic of my herbs and flowers until spring. I winterized them yesterday afternoon so cross your fingers my sage, mint, lemon balm, and rosemary make it through the winter. The rosemary came to work w/me today because from what I've read, they don't do well in cold temps even if properly mulched.

Jacket: Isaac Mizrahi/Target

Orange shell: Target

Denim pencil skirt: Lands' End (it's on sale for $25 right now)

Tights: Target

Boots: Payless

Necklace/earrings: courtesy of V/accessory swap







I'm a bad swap buddy! V sent me this necklace and awesome earring set (along with more great goodies!) a month ago and I'm just now posting them. The necklace and earrings are both totally my style - thanks, V! OhThatGirl is hosting another accessory swap this month, so click the link above to sign up!
You can see the collar of the jacket in this pic. It and the elbows are faux-suede (like the boots). It's very English Professor :)

TGIF - Ally

I've not posted much this week because in between lack of sleep from election excitement and my fall allergies kicking in, I've not been very cute. Oh I've been cheap alright, but certainly not cute :) Here's to hoping next week goes better!

Top: NY&Co

Skirt: Old Navy

Necklace everyone hates on me b/c they're jealous: New Orleans

Tweed flats: Old Navy











Like Leslie said, today's probably the last day we can go bare legged here. It's technically too late, but it's been in the high 70s all week.

I've had these flats for several years and just love them. They were about $10 and worth every penny :)

Monday - Ally

Oh look! I'm wearing that denim skirt and black flats...again! It doesn't matter how many skirts or shoes I have, these are my current favorites by far.

Purple cardi: Target

Tank (under cardi): Old Navy

Denim pencil skirt: Lands' End

Necklace: Walmart

Flats: Sam Edelman







My formerly skinned (and now healing!) knee is almost 100%. It's super pink/purple but seeing as how there's a LOT of new skin, I expected that. I really tore the hell out of it. I say I'd be more careful next time, but I'm too big of a klutz for that!

Weekend -- Ally

Happy weekend!! This week seemed so long despite it being shorter than usual. I'm glad to have Sunday/Monday off. I worked today and we had a pool party for the residents. It was a lot of fun but I was also running the office so I ran around like a crazy person until it was almost time to leave. I'm just glad the weather made a turn for the beautiful - it never got over 80 all day - PERFECTION! Sunny, clear blue skies...couldn't ask for better weather.

Top: H&M

Tank (under top): Old Navy

Jeans: Gap

Flats: Sam Edelman (what else would I wear? haha)

Necklace: Just Jewelry?










I needed to be comfortable and somewhat casual, but still dressed up. We can wear jeans on Saturday at work so long as you don't look like you rolled out of bed in them. This top from H&M is one I got in Indy when Tracey and I met Kimberly. I really love the color (it's a nice kelly green) but I dislike how easily the fabric wrinkles. It looks awesome when I get dressed but by the end of the day it's a wrinkly mess.
One of our furniture vendors used to sell jewelry on the side and I bought this necklace from her several years back. I used to wear it all the time because it matches practically everything, but I forget I have it now.

I think it's from Just Jewelry but I'm not 100%.








You can't really tell in the pic, but my "bangs" are braided back a la LC and Kimberly. Wait - you didn't know I had long bangs? Someone *cough*ME*cough* is lazy and won't fix her hair and pins her bangs back eeeeeeeeeeeeevery day. And to think I want to get a Real Haircut next month. Ha!