Tag Archives: new clothes

TJMaxx Haul: Zara Dress Edition

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TJMaxx Haul: Zara Dress Edition

Hello everyone!! Welcome back to more from my TJMaxx Haul after a brief pause for a Lil Red’s Book Club discussion. Today, we are going to be chatting about a dress from Zara which I am so happy with but just a *smidge* disappointed by. I saw the same dress in a 1970s style pattern during my birthday gift card haul and it was fabulous but too small. I scoured the dress selection this time around hoping to find it in a bigger size and found it in this pattern, instead:

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I don’t shop Zara often because the closest one is at a mall about forty-five minutes away from me. So, I am always excited when I see the brand at TJMaxx! My new dress is a great consolation prize for the one that could have been and, on the bright side, it fits lol. I could have gotten away with the original in a small but it was short enough that I would have had to been adjusting myself the entire time and that’s never a good look!

Although this pattern kind of looks like Saint Patrick’s Day, I am stoked about it because I love to wear green. I used to wear it often when my hair was all red and have fell off of it a bit when I began experimenting with different Pulp Riot colors. However, come September, I am going back to full fireball hair with red, yellow, and orange and this dress will compliment that change perfectly. 😀

This little Zara number is an ideal spring or early fall dress with its long sleeves and lower thigh length. The material is also light enough that you could probably get away with it during a chilly summer night. Since the pattern is so bold, I plan on letting it speak for itself with a pair of simple black heels and some minimal silver jewelry. A pattern is an accessory in itself so this dress doesn’t need much to make a gorgeous OOTD with!

Tune back into lifewithlilred tomorrow for the final (and my favorite) piece from my TJMaxx haul and, afterwards, we will move onto my skin care purchases. See you then! ❤

Do you like to buy the same piece of clothing in multiple patterns or colors? What color compliments you the best? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

TJMaxx Haul: Rebellion Again Crochet Crop Top Edition

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TJMaxx Haul: Rebellion Again Crochet Crop Top Edition

Hello everyone and welcome to the next item up for discussion from my most recent TJMaxx Haul! It is amazing what a little retail therapy can do to lift my spirits so who needs regular therapy anyways? …. Me and probably everyone, actually, but I digress! Today, we are going to be talking about a darling crochet crop top by Rebellion Again that I found during my second round throughout the store. Let’s get to it:

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In my TJMaxx Shopping Pro Tips post, I talked about the importance of making two rounds in the store. This is essential if you feel like you missed something or you need another piece to build an outfit with something you plan on purchasing. The second example was the case for this top because I found a gorgeous pair of Nicole Miller floral print pants and had nothing to wear with it.

I decided that I wanted a cream colored top to pair with the earthy grey base of the pants and found it in this Rebellion Again crop. It was exactly what I had in mind and knew that it would work perfectly before even trying it on. I loved the floral crochet pattern, the scalloped edging on the bottom, and the tank style straps to hide away bra straps. It looks fabulous with the pants that you will see tomorrow!

Not only is this top ideal for what I needed but it also makes for an amazing summer top in general. As you all know, my wardrobe was severely lacking in that regard and my haul helped remedy this massive problem. This top will be adorable paired with shorts or high rise jeans. I also have visions of wearing it over the top of a dress or a tighter fitting long sleeved top come fall for some layering fun. 😀

Stay tuned into lifewithlilred for more from my TJMaxx Haul as well as a new Lil Red’s Book Club post coming very soon!

What is your favorite neutral color to wear? How would you style this top? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

TJMaxx Haul: Solitaire Top Edition

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TJMaxx Haul: Solitaire Top Edition

Hello!! After a simply awful week and change, your girl needed some retail therapy so, naturally, I went to TJMaxx to ease the pain lol. It was just what I needed and I FINALLY found some new tops, which I am thrilled about because I was having no luck in that regard for a while. Today, we are going to start off my latest haul by checking out a gorgeous new top by Solitaire in a perfectly persimmon hue. Let’s get to it:

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As I was making my rounds at TJs, I spotted this top on one of the display racks and knew instantly that it was going to be a winner. I was in love with the unique color and I have nothing even close to it in my wardrobe, which made it even better. The shape of this top is what really sold me, though. The exaggerated puff sleeves paired with the bold collar and tighter fitting middle is divine. And don’t even get me started on the sweet buttons and floral embroidery! This top is *chef’s kiss* perfection.

When I first saw this top, it instantly made me think of Halloween since I am an elder emo and I’m always thinking about it. I cannot wait to style it with the happiest season of all in mind and already have lots of ideas. In fact, it will be featured soon in a new OOTD so keep it posted for that. But *spoiler alert* I’m thinking my black Almost Famous skort, Adora hat, and Kenneth Cole heels for a super fun color blocked look. I’m swooning just thinking about it!

There is nothing like a good shopping trip to put some pep back in my step. Tune in all of this week for more from this amazing haul!

Has anyone else had some retail therapy recently? What did you find? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

TJMaxx Shopping Pro Tips

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TJMaxx Shopping Pro Tips

Hello!! I often get asked my secrets for my numerous successful shopping hauls at TJMaxx. So, I decided to share them today before we start diving into my new purchases tomorrow! I will be the first to admit that shopping at stores like TJs, Ross, Burlington, or anything similar can sometimes be hit or miss. That’s okay, though! Walking away empty handed makes the GREAT SUCCESS of a good haul even sweeter. Just remember the following:

Go Without A Specific Purchase In Mind:

If you go to a store like TJMaxx looking for one specific style or item, chances are that you are going to be disappointed. When you are looking for one thing and one thing only, it really limits your opportunity to explore for something different. In this case, the best plan is no plan so go in with an open mind and see what catches your eye.

Give Yourself Time:

I refuse to go to TJMaxx when I’m on a time crunch because then I wouldn’t be able to go through each department with a discerning eye. When I’m on a shopping trip, I will make one round throughout the store, try clothes on, and then make a second trip back to certain areas. It’s honestly amazing what you miss the first time around and I found two gorgeous items in my haul that I didn’t even notice on my second trip.

The two trip method is also especially effective because it gives you the opportunity to build outfits with the pieces you plan to purchase. For example, I found an amazing pair of floral pants but had no top at home to wear with it. Then, I was able to narrow down a style and color palette that might work on top and found just what I needed. This past shopping trip took me about two hours and I enjoyed and needed every minute of it for optimum success.

Try & Try Again:

There are some pieces on the racks at TJs that I would simply never wear and that’s fine. However, if there is an item that you are on the fence about – try it on anyways! Not everything is going to be a winner but you’d be amazed at the things that are so give yourself a chance to find out. The whole point of stores like TJMaxx is finding purchases that you never would have found elsewhere so have fun with it and explore all of your options.

During the pandemic, it was hard to take risks with shopping when buying everything online was the norm. Take advantage of the fitting rooms being open and try styles, colors, and shapes that you would usually pass on. Your winners will open up whole new worlds of possibilities and will help develop your personal style even more.

I follow these three simple rules every time I go shopping at TJMaxx and always walk away satisfied even if I haven’t bought anything. Keep them in mind and you will be a Maxxinista in no time! Be sure to tune in tomorrow to discuss my favorite haul in forever! ❤

What is your favorite discount store to shop at? What are some of your shopping pro tips? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

New Sienna Sky Skirt

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New Sienna Sky Skirt

Hello!! During my last shopping trip at TJMaxx with a new friend, I had a fantastic haul filled with lots of new goodies. No new tops (No surprises there!), but some other accessories and the fabulous new skirt that we will be discussing today to shake up my summer wardrobe. It was love at first sight with this Sienna Sky skirt and I cannot wait to wear it!

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Unlike many, I am not a huge fan of summertime. I despise really hot weather and I have always found dressing for summer to be a bore. In the fall, you have the option to truly build outfits through layering and that is so not the case for summer unless you want to burn up! I can only wear so many shorts and top combinations, which is why I was thrilled to find a new skirt to add some variety.

This little Sienna Sky number brought me back to high school when skirts that were similar were all the rage. Now, I much prefer a more structured skirt style so I am excited to add some flounce back into my OOTDs. The shape of this skirt with the front ruffle is darling but what sold me is the colors. The bright yellow, orange, and blue just screams fun in the sun and will allow me to have some more fun with summer dressing too. 😀

Because of the bold pattern on this skirt, all one needs for a perfect summer OOTD is a plain white tank, lots of bangle bracelets, and cork or wicker wedges. An outfit like that is ideal for a date day, a stroll through the farmers market, or drinks on the patio. And, it sure beats shorts and a T-shirt… Maybe dressing for summer isn’t so bad after all!

What is your favorite season to dress for? How would you style this skirt? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Pantspalooza: Premise Pt. 2 Edition

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Pantspalooza: Premise Pt. 2 Edition

Hello everyone and welcome to the last purchase from my TJMaxx Haul! During this shopping trip, I got two new tops and bottoms for my summer wardrobe. And, thanks to my upcoming birthday, I can’t wait to go back because I already have some gift cards burning a hole in my pocket! Today, we are going to wrap things up by talking about another pair of pantaloons by Premise. Yes, they’re also kind of old lady. And, yes, it is in the best way ever like the other pair! Check it out:

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When shopping at TJMaxx, my mom and I usually make two rounds throughout the store before we check out. This gives us the opportunity to try things on, narrow down our options, and go back in for more lol. My paint splatter pants by Premise were tried on during our second go in the fitting room because the other pair I knew that I was buying worked so well:

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As you all know, I really am not one for patterned pants but these ones just hit different. The fit of them is, truly, perfect for my body type and when that is the case with a piece of clothing, it never hurts to buy it in multiple patterns! I am so glad that I did because I definitely plan on wearing these all summer long. I also love the fact that I can because, despite their length, these pants are nice and cool. Also, white clothing is ideal for beating the heat with!

Although both of these Premise pants are the exact same in terms of its structure, the patterns are so different that I didn’t feel bad about it. I like them equally but the paint splatter one speaks to my personal style a bit more. In the summer, all I’ll need is a black tank or crop top and I am good to go. But, come fall, I can’t wait to punk them out with a moto jacket and combat boots. The material is also thick enough that I can wear a pair of tights underneath them and it won’t show through if the weather is chilly.

For mine and Johnny’s housewarming/birthaversary party, I wore the white and blue pair of Premise pants and they were a huge hit. I can’t wait to break out the paint splatter pair next! 😀

Do you own anything in multiple colors or patterns? What kind of fit for clothing compliments your body best? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

 

Pantspalooza: Premise Edition

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Pantspalooza: Premise Edition

Hello!! My mom and I had an excellent shopping trip together at the new TJMaxx in our area and it was so much fun. It had been a while since our last TJs excursion and I am already ready to go back with her! While I didn’t walk away with as many tops as I would have liked, which was my main goal, I did find some really cool pants by Premise. Check it out:

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^^^ Originally $68 and I got it for $17 – you can’t beat that. 😀

I will be the first to admit that these pants are kind of old ladyish but in the Best. Way. Ever. and I am obsessed. I am in love with the fine China/old school cookware pattern, the slimming shape, and how freaking comfy they are. These pants are incredibly lightweight, making them an ideal option for summer. The material is also thick enough that darker colored panties won’t show through, which is another huge win because that’s basically all I own.

When my new pantaloons caught my eye, it was love at first sight but I honestly didn’t think they would end up working. I like the idea of patterned pants but I don’t like them on me, which is why I opt for my black skinnies nine times out of ten. However, I just couldn’t say no to them – especially when paired with my new Love On A Hanger top:

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Had the Premise pants not fit so well, they would have been a definite no go because if you’re going for a pattern that bold, then the fit better be on point. And, it was. These pants hit perfectly at my ankle, hugged my curves without being tight, and was high waisted without hitting my boobs lol. In other words, they were just right and the pattern was enhanced rather than distracting.

These are a far cry from anything that I would normally wear and it feels good to take what I would consider a fashion risk. If you are shopping in store and see something that you like but don’t think it would work for you: TRY IT ON. That’s what the fitting rooms are there for and who knows? You might walk away with your new favorite purchase!

What is your favorite pattern to wear? How would you style these pants? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

New Gaze Mesh Crop Top

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New Gaze Mesh Crop Top

Hey! During my shopping at the new TJMaxx in the area, I made a purchase that I actually didn’t intend on making at all. However, the more that I had the top on in the fitting room, the more I wanted it and it ended up coming home with me. Mainly because it gave me ultimate Jules vibes from Euphoria! Check out my new mesh crop top by Gaze:

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While my mom and I were making our second round throughout the store, I grabbed this top to try on with a pair of white bottoms. It is a far cry from something that I would normally wear but I just needed something to go with the pants! I really liked the pattern and the material but I was worried that the mesh would be super see through and I’m just not comfortable with that. It is also a much shorter crop than what I prefer, making it an instant no go in my head.

When I was in the fitting room, I was surprised that you could barely see my bra even with the mesh thanks to the background being black and only the pattern being white. It also fit just right with the high waisted pants I had on, making it much less revealing than what I had originally envisioned. And, oh yeah, it was SO comfy that I genuinely felt disappointed when I had to take it off and put my hoodie back on.

Prior to this shopping trip, I had recently finished binging Euphoria and it reminded me so much of the fashion in the show. I can’t wait to pair it with my favorite black pair of shorts from American Eagle or with my sweet skort by Almost Famous to give a dress like illusion. Pair with some killer platforms, rinse, repeat for a perfectly summer look that will help keep me perfectly cool even in all black. My emo kid dream come true! ❤

While I love a good online shopping sesh, there is nothing like some in store shopping to play around with different styles. This top by Gaze would have been an automatic no had I seen it online but trying it on in person was a totally different story. I can’t wait to incorporate it into my summer wardrobe… with maybe a few more tops for good measure!

What is something that you purchased that you originally thought you wouldn’t like? Do you prefer in store or online shopping? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

 

New Love On A Hanger Top

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New Love On A Hanger Top

Hello!! My happy place, AKA the TJMaxx in Cuyahoga Falls, closed down to make room for a new TJs in Stow. Of course, this was very sad for me because I have so many fond memories of shopping at the old one with my grandma, mom, sister, and niece. However, I’d be a liar if I said that I wasn’t eager to check the new one out. A few weeks ago, my mom and I finally went shopping there together and we both had a nice little haul! Let’s get started with this adorable new top by Love On A Hanger:

PS: If the brand name sounds familiar to you – it should! I featured a gorgeous skirt by LOAH in a recent OOTD

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Despite a closet full of beautiful clothes, I always feel like I never have enough tops. My wardrobe definitely leans more towards cold weather clothing and while I have sweaters and flannels for days, my summer selection is severely lacking. I was hoping to remedy this at the new TJs and did pretty good – two tops and two bottoms, which is better than nothing!

My new Love On A Hanger top was one of the first things to catch my eye and I just knew that it would work simply by looking at it. I loved the navy embroidery against the white background and it reminded me of fine China dishes. We also all know that I am a sucker for anything and everything embroidered.

I was so pleased with this purchase and wish that I could find more tops like it in different colors. This top will be darling with a pair of blue jean shorts, summer wedges, and a big sunhat. Not to mention that it is the perfect style and material to beat the heat with. I think wearing this for mine and Johnny’s housewarming party will be the move! 😀

Keep it posted for more from my haul at the new TJMaxx, my May finishes, and a grand tour of the apartment because it’s almost ready for its closeup!

What is your favorite season to shop for? What do you need more of in your wardrobe? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

New Love On A Hanger Skirt

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New Love On A Hanger Skirt

Hello! My all time favorite TJMaxx is closing down to make room for a shiny new one and it was bittersweet during my last shopping trip there. Bitter because I will miss the store terribly and sweet because I got some super cute new goodies! I wasn’t planning on purchasing anything for myself (Which is always how it goes!) but when I found this adorable skirt by Love On A Hanger, I figured it couldn’t hurt to try it on:

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The shape of this skirt is my absolute favorite and I have several of them. Despite this, I always find myself buying more because I love them oh so much. The high rise fit with mini skirt length is so flattering and it makes for the most darling OOTDs come spring and summer. All you need is a crop or tank top, bold platforms, and a floppy hat and you are sure to turn heads!

While I, truthfully, don’t need anymore of these skirts, I justify my obsession by telling myself that I don’t have one in this pattern lol. And, that’s exactly what I told myself when I saw this Love On A Hanger number at TJMaxx. I fell in love with the canvas like material, springy flowers, and all of the OOTD possibilities that came with it.

It might be too cold to wear my new skirt right now but, trust and believe, that I will be busting it out as soon as the temperature rises. I tried my skirt on in the fitting room with a plain white tank top and it looked perfect. Once my pink Marc Fisher platforms are on and some colorful accessories, I will definitely feel like Spring Fling Queen!

In the timeless words of Meryl Streep in The Devil Wears Prada: “Florals…for spring? How…groundbreaking.” But, if it’s not broken then don’t fix it! 😀

What is your favorite style of skirt? Do you have a piece of clothing that you like to buy in multiple patterns? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah