A guide to being cheap chic

Living in LA has taught me a valuable lesson: There's a cheaper version to everything. There's tons of fashion companies that have a large following of fashionistas, but not all of us can afford to have that specific look. The beauty of living in LA is having the fashion district at your fingertips. Along with an array of thrift shops that hold treasures of rich hollywood gals who have easily donated their clothes when they've worn them just once. 

I am a fashion l.o.v.e.r. and it kills me not to be able to afford things like Novella Royale's amazing bells, or that amazing For Love and Lemons lace dress. Well Vanessa and relatable fashionistas, do not fret cause there is a light at the end of that tunnel. Go to the fashion district in LA! There you will find an array of the exact same merchandise that is sold at Nasty Gal. Shoes galore, clothes, and accessories galore as well. Delve into the busy streets of Santee Alley to discover it all, it's worth it. I have purchased numerous kick ass shoes for all under $30 bucks in that alley. And I have a favorite jewelry shop there that has everything for $1, I bought 4 gold and silver ring and bracelet chain combos today and I cannot wait to wear them, that's also where I purchase my cheap gold hoop earrings for my Brooklyn girl phase that I am currently experiencing. And I also purchased all those rings from above from there. Shopping in downtown does involve patience, but you never leave empty handed. I went there today and had actual errands and supplies to purchase and ended up spending a lot more than I had anticipated because I found a hidden treasure: Artini Accessories Inc. They are currently having a 60% ofF sale on all their jewelry and bought myself some amazing pieces that were worth the price. I'm talking $8 bucks here instead of lets say, $30?!

And one more secret of mine is DOLLAR SHOPS! I swear, these are a safe haven for me. When I first moved here I was on a mad search for A Dollar Tree but instead I found The Dollar King in Glendale. Best. Dollar. Store. Ever. I think they only have a location in Glendale so I apologize to those who don't live in LA. They have the greatest make-up aisle I have ever seen in a dollar store. Quality stuff too. It's mainly lip, eye and nail stuff and that's all you really need if you're gonna spend a dollar on it. Face make-up is a different story, that needs to be purchased with more thought, caution, and money. Everytime I go, I buy a new lipstick or nail polish and I'm always satisfied when I get my first use out of it. That saves me so much money on having to spend it on MAC or organic make-up. And the stuff I use still looks AS GOOD as MAC. That picture above is proof on how much I have purchased from the Dollar King. So before you go spending money on things that aren't worth the price, investigate around your city or online and see the cheaper alternatives  because honey, there always is. 

Until next time

Maverick Nessa