20 10 / 2011
Plato’s Haul
You know by now that Plato’s Closet is Flat Brooke staple; what could be better than a store that gives you cash for your used clothes and provides designer duds for a discount?
Yesterday I stopped by, meaning only to window shop. Big mistake. Turns out they have the cutest outfits in those windows. I found this subtly shimmering beige Calvin Klein blouse and fell head over heels in love:

I couldn’t find a photo online; thus my wonky picture skills are on display again. I couldn’t resist this top’s soft shine, (a fall trend), especially for the price! I paid $8.00 for a Calvin Klein originally priced at $59.00!
Fall, for those who shop at the Closet, is a time to rejoice for both budget and wardrobe, as both jackets and jeans can be found in great supply. When I went in six racks were dedicated to jeans of all shapes, colors, and sizes. Brands ranged from cheapies from Forever21 to expensive labels like JBrand and 7 For All Mankind. I went slowly and painstakingly through maybe sixty pairs to find something I had to have:

Finding a great pair of skinnies is hard for me; I’m extremely picky about fit and shape. Usually, a pair of legging-like jeans make my legs look like sausages bursting out of a too-tight casing. These Gap 1969 super lightweight legging jeans slid on softly, clinging just the right amount to make my legs look long and lean instead of like they belong to Jimmy Dean. Not only did they fit perfectly, but they only cost me $15.00. The price listed on gap.com for these soon-to-be wardrobe staples is $69.95! Photo and price from gap.com.)
Again, bear in mind that not all Plato’s will sell the same stock…but chances of finding items like these are extremely high!
To perfection at Plato’s,
Brooke
P.S. Feel free to email me with stories or pictures of your latest haul! I’d love to get some feedback from you lovely budget babes:)!
20 8 / 2011
Faux Leather, Real Style
Lest we fall prey to the false notion that fashion is only about the saccharine sweetness of lace and blush tones, accessories this season are nothing if not tough as nails…or in this case, faux leather.
Everyone should own a great faux leather jacket; it’s a great way to keep the chill out while still looking cool. As an added bonus, faux leather is always cheaper (and more importantly, less painful to any bovine beauties) than the real thing.
This gorgeous DSQUARED leather jacket goes for about $1,440 dollars.

(Picture courtesy of couture.zappos.com)
Pretty with an edge? Definitely. Worth every penny? Umm…that’s a ton of pennies. Why spend that much cash when a lady can look like bank without breaking the bank?
I scored a similar jacket by bagatelle at Plato’s closet for only $15.00. Bear in mind that despite my wonky picture skills, I can assure you that it’s a gorgeous jacket that will go great with my red lace dress (see previous posts) when cooler weather sets in. No one wants to resort to an awkward old hoodie to keep warm when you can have a jacket that doesn’t end up killing your outfit.

Keep in mind that since the stock at your local Plato’s Closet depends on what sorts of clothes the people in the area are selling, not all items will be the same. But in my experience, Plato’s has always had great, fashionable pieces at prices that rival Forever21’s. And if buying used sends chills up your spine, rest easy knowing that the staff at Plato’s is adamant about buying quality clothing in good condition.
I myself have sold a couple pieces there; I came in with a whole bag, so I know they’re fussy. (This jacket caught my eye after selling, and I totally forgave them their fussiness). If you have such pieces, (as well as gently used accessories), try selling them during the designated hours. While the employees peruse your old outfits, you can peruse the aisles and dig up a few major finds yourself.
Take my advice though, and head straight to the jacket section and snag up any finds like this instantly. Trust me, when temperatures drop, it’ll be too late!
To edgy finds with a sweet price tag,
Brooke