Show your Maxxinista style and win $300

About the Author

Angie is co-founder of YLF and its resident fashion stylist.

Welcome! Read about what to wear and how to wear it on the YLF Blog. Join the YLF Forum to ask specific questions or just chat about fashion and personal style. Or check out the curated list of things we love in YLF Finds.

Outfits Ensembles Trends Advice

Show your Maxxinista style and win $300

— by Angie

on November 2, 2009

A $300 gift voucher from TJ Maxx is up for grabs! All you have to do to participate in the competition is show your Maxxinista style. According to TJ Maxx “a Maxxinista is a confident, savvy woman, who knows that she doesn’t have to break the bank to wear designer labels and look fabulous”.

Here’s how to enter:

Find a fabulous outfit that represents your best Maxxinista style. Note that the items you wear in the outfit don’t need to come from TJ Maxx.
Upload a picture of yourself in this outfit to Flikr or Photobucket. You can shoot a photo especially for the competition, or use an existing one. Be sure to post a good quality photograph because it will make your outfit shine.
Tag your photo “Maxxinista”.
Link to the photo in the comments below and be sure to tell us why you think it epitomizes Maxxinista style.

We’ll accept entries until midnight Friday 6th November. You may enter as many times as you like, but each outfit must be different.

I’ve asked Dianna, the super stylish Budget Babe to pick the winner of the competition. I had the pleasure of meeting penny-wise, ultra lovely and well put together Dianna at the TJ Maxx event in Boston last year and I trust her style sense implicitly. Good luck lasses! We can’t wait to see your outfits.

Update: Thank you for the fantastic entries! The judging is underway and the winner will be announced on Tuesday morning.

Competitions · Sales & Promotions

44 comments

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Just to be clear, you do not need to wear designer labels for this competition. It’s about you in a fabulous outfit any which way you’d like to interpret Maxxinista style. It can be casual or formal and anything in-between.

There are many YLF members who upload pictures of fabulous Maxxinista style daily onto the forum – now lets see it here!

November 2, 2009 at 9:03 am

RoseandJoan

Veteran

I’m a Brit so out on this one, I just wanted to wish everyone who enters the best of luck. Angie this is a fab competition!

November 2, 2009 at 11:47 am

PalmFronds

What a fab contest for today!
Here is my first shot:
http://s938.photobucket.com/al.....XPHOTO.jpg

This is one of my Maxxinista outfits because it is classic with a bit of twist, which is essentially my style. Classic goes a long way, maximum value in my book, and is essential.But color makes my heart flutter, and so this jacket is one of my favorites–a classic blazer in a not so classic color but still very versatile.The boots are my new favorite shoes. Coincidentally I wore for them first time today, and they were bought at TJ Maxx(as were the denim skirt and scarf, both a while back).
I think it all epitomizes Maxxinista style because it IS classic(and will go the distance in the long run) with the denim skirt and white shirt, but a maxxinista knows the heart must flutter too so we bring in color and wicked shoes

November 2, 2009 at 12:02 pm

PalmFronds

And here’s my second photo(my this is fun!):

http://s938.photobucket.com/al.....XXFOTO.jpg

I was actually wearing this today before I read Angie’s post about the contest. I love this outfit and it is definitely Maxxinista style because it again has some classic elements, but with some spark of color and is very modern. It was a big step for me, even though many of you probably have put together outfits like this for some time. This was the first day I wore those boots, which I did buy at TJ Maxx, and also the first day I have EVER worn jeans tucked into boots! So for me the outfit is perfectly Maxxinista because it embraced the classic elements while evolving my style. And I felt fabulous I ran around after my kids and did my errands, all while feeling perfectly put together without being ostentatious.
(And let me tell you those boots are the most comfortable boots I have ever put on.I’ll be wearing them into the ground..)

November 2, 2009 at 12:12 pm

marianna

Veteran

My Maxxinista style:
http://i985.photobucket.com/al.....2111_2.jpg

My family and I have been severely affected by the downward economy. I had been raised with no real concept of saving or budget shopping, purchased anything and everything I wanted, and never truly worried about money. And then all of a sudden I was unable to maintain the lifestyle I had enjoyed for so long and had to find ways to still dress well and feel confident, while not breaking the bank. For the past couple of years I have lovingly welcomed stores such as TJ Maxx and Marshalls into my lifestyle and the majority of my current wardrobe has been purchased exclusively at “budget” stores. Surprisingly (or not so surprisingly!) my wardrobe has evolved and improved drastically. Being on a budget has made me more discerning about my purchases and I don’t spend money on mediocre items anymore. TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and Nordstrom Rack have given me the opportunity to revamp my wardrobe with quality items while pinching pennies. I absolutely have a new appreciation for bargain shoppers and I love the thrill of finding a great deal!

My outfit above consists of item purchased pre- penny pinching and post- penny pinching. My jeans are David Kahns, purchased at Nordstrom Rack very inexpensively. The blouse is Nine West via Marshalls. The shoes are from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. And the bag is proof of my prior lifestyle: a Marc by Marc Jacobs that I cherish with all my heart and will wear for years to come.

November 2, 2009 at 1:10 pm

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

This contest is right up my ally!
Here is my oufti with jacket:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/c.....070000892/
and without:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/c.....069242715/

This outfit epitomizes Maxxonista style because each piece was carefully chosen, yet was also budget friendly. It’s a mix of labels, basics, and unique pieces that keep the attention on how fabulous you look, rather than how much you paid for your outfit. The boots, denim jacket and hose are from Target, the dress is a BCBG Generation from Ross, the cami was on sale at Old Navy and the fabulous necklace was on clearance at World Market. It is possible to find pieces which fit, flatter and stand up to washing and wearing at any price point. You just have to be willing to put in the effort to really look.

November 2, 2009 at 2:49 pm

fjt

Maxxinista look #1: Inspired by Edward Hopper

http://www.flickr.com/photos/f.....074651017/

My absolute favorite painter is the spirit behind this outfit, the painting I’m referring to is Edward Hopper, Office at Night, 1940. I think a Maxxinista knows how to find inspiration from the past and bring it into the present! This outfit has vintage mixed with current deals I’ve gotten on eBay, Marshalls, and CK outlet store.

-FaithJ
fjthoma@hotmail.com

November 4, 2009 at 8:42 am

fjt

Maxxinista look #2: High-Low is the Way to Go

http://www.flickr.com/photos/f.....075404856/

The Maxxinista knows how to mix high- and lower-quality clothes to make everything look high-end! I’ve done this in this outfit. My necklace is the most expensive thing in this outfit. If you’re gonna spend money, I like to spend it on jewelry because it doesn’t wear out like clothing does!

-FaithJ
fjthoma@hotmail.com

November 4, 2009 at 8:44 am

fjt

Maxxinista look #3: Wear to Work

http://www.flickr.com/photos/f.....074649951/

One thing every Maxxinista knows is that it’s not just about the clothes; confidence and style come from within. I’ve put in the description of this photo how I save money on my body, hair, and nails.

-FaithJ
fjthoma@hotmail.com

November 4, 2009 at 8:46 am

Danja

(website)

What a fun giveaway. Thank you Angie! I have to admit that I have not been to TJMaxx in years, not because I am shunning the store, but because it is kind of out of the way on my shopping route. I keep hearing about great finds from TJMaxx from the forum ladies, so I am definitely overdue for a visit.

As far as Maxxinista style goes, I agree that one should not have to break the bank to look good. I also think you should have fun with your clothes and take occasional risks which push your creativity forward. As much as I love parading a new piece of clothing, I love it even more when I find an older item in the back of my closet, practically delegated to the past, and I re-discover how awesome it is and how it complements my newer pieces. And that is why I’ve selected these outfits because they combine new with old, and they also reflect my personal style which goes well with Maxxinista definition.

Autmun Leaves – JCrew blouse, belt and cardigan, 3 years old Benetton skirt (from the back of the closet), Fitzwell pumps (new but at a steep discount):
http://farm4.static.flickr.com.....c05e_o.jpg

Menswear 1937 – JCrew Cardigan, 1 year old JCrew shirt and belt, LV scarf (gift), 4 years old men’s JCrew wool pants which I absolutely adore, new RSVP oxford brogues:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com.....3754_o.jpg

StarTrek – this is my risky outfit, but I was really happy how it turned out. 3 years old Express jacket I considered donating, 3.5 years old Custo Barcelona dress that I paid a lot for and wore like 2.7 times until this fall, Jon Josef peep-toe oxfords, custom made skinny belt:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com.....93db_o.jpg

Pattern mixing – pattern mixing is something I’ve been trying to do a lot in the past year, and I really love it. Here I am wearing a JCrew blouse (swapped with a forum friend), JCrew skirt and belt (with H&M flower tacked on), and 6 years old Mario Valentino t-strap pumps (a splurge that I never regretted):
http://farm4.static.flickr.com.....8283_b.jpg

November 4, 2009 at 8:52 am

marianna

Veteran

Here is another outfit that proves my Maxxinista lifestyle:

http://i985.photobucket.com/al.....G_2091.jpg

I didn’t play full price for anything in this outfit. This outfit is especially unique because I received two of them items thanks to the wonderful people on fashion blogs. My tweed jacket is from Ann Taylor but I only paid $5 thanks to friend on the You Look Fab forum. I purchased my Me too Oxfords via the Fatshionista community on Live Journal for $20 (which is more than $80 off retail!) These two blog purchases are wardrobe favorites and prove how amazing fashion bloggers are. My jeans are from Filene’s Basement and my top is from Forever 21’s plus size line, Faith 21. My entire outfit is a bargain hunter’s dream.

The items may have been cheap, but I don’t feel cheap when I wear them. When I wear this outfit I feel like a million dollars. I stand (extremely) tall in my oxfords and walk proudly knowing that my outfit looks expensive, but it’s really not. That’s my favorite illusion to create.

November 4, 2009 at 8:08 pm

Taffy

Active Member

http://i277.photobucket.com/al.....1367-1.jpg

This was my first successful outfit thanks to Angie’s help. I think it shows Maxxinista style because it was my watershed moment. It clicked for me that style can be possessed and used by EVERYONE, with no regard to body type, age, size, or bank account.

November 5, 2009 at 8:02 am

marianna

Veteran

Hi Dianna and Angie! I have a few more Maxxinista outfits that I’d like to share with you.

Angie has written that TJ Maxx is especially fruitful for those who fall into the size range of 6 to 14 and “Sizes that are outside this curve tend to be either nonexistent or rare.” I fall outside of the curve and I know that plus sizes at TJ Maxx are available, BUT they definitely require a great amount of “digging.” My local TJ Maxx recently removed their plus size section from the main floor and planted it right next to the pajamas and closer to the Home Goods section. I was a little insulted and surprised, but I suppose it makes sense. The majority of the customers fall into the size 6-14 range, and the plus sizes were just taking up precious space. I understand, but it’s still a little disappointing.

Nonetheless, the plus size department had some great items and I schlepped a ton of items to the fitting room. Nothing fit quite right, but the items had definite fab potential. There were some amazing pleather jackets in fun colors, great Guess wool coats, Seven jeans, and lots of other goodies. My point is… I think that plus size women don’t considering shopping at TJ Maxx, especially when the department is shoved into a small corner.

As I was looking through my closet this morning I realized that it is VERY difficult to find budget friendly plus size clothes that are fashionable. Most of the less expensive size 16+ clothing options are frumpy, plain, and less than fashionable. It’s sad and frustrating and a huge injustice! There are many plus size items on my wish list right now that I could easily buy if I had $100+ to spend on each item… but I can’t afford these items right now. Nonetheless, with persistence and a true love to dig through plus size departments at stores like TJ Maxx and Marshalls, I’m almost always able to come away with some amazing finds. It *can* be done. It just takes patience.

I would love to be given the opportunity to show readers that plus size shopping at TJ Maxx is a reality. If I am awarded the gift voucher I will make it my mission to find fab plus size finds and I will take pictures of everything I find and share it with you.

Here are my Maxxinista outfits:

1) http://i985.photobucket.com/al.....G_2109.jpg
– Target sweater dress, leather jacket from Nordstrom Rack, hose from Target, Me Too brogues purchased brand new in box for $20 from a fashion blogger.

2)
http://i985.photobucket.com/al.....G_2113.jpg
– Torrid Houndstooth skirt purchased on clearance, cobalt Banana Republic sweater purchased for $7 on a YLF meet-up, black Torrid jacket, flower pin from TJ Maxx.

3) http://i985.photobucket.com/al.....G_2118.jpg
– Torrid skinnies, Torrid boots, NY & Company tunic purchased with coupon and during their “buy a tunic, get a free pair of leggings!” promotion, jacket from Nordstrom Rack.

4) http://i985.photobucket.com/al.....G_2123.jpg
– Torrid skinnies, tunic purchased at Nordstrom with a gift card, BCBG Girl flats from years ago (previously were orphans in my closet!)

Thank you!

November 5, 2009 at 2:17 pm

Marie S

I absolutely love reading YouLookFab and I have always been a budget shopper, so I love this!!!! I shop at TJ Maxx, Gabriel Brothers, and clearance sections 90% of the time.

3 – Formal look
http://www.flickr.com/photos/4.....079446344/
I love how this dress and jewelery is $10 altogether!! Lovely Express dress I got several years back – I have a pink/black diagonal striped one as well. Because I’m so used to finding things cheap, I find it painful to pay more than $25 for a dress!

2 – Office look
http://www.flickr.com/photos/4.....078689971/
This is what I wore to work today. TJ Maxx always has amazing skirts for $20. Everything here is TJ Maxx except tights (Target) and the necklace.

1 – Casual look
http://www.flickr.com/photos/4.....079449534/
I love layering and accessories, so I always get tanks for layering at end of season. The necklace layering is fun too – so I always look for cheap jewelery and tanks for this reason.

I believe these epitomize Maxxinista style because they are outfits that make me feel fantastic, confident, and not guilty in the wallet. If I want to go to a ballet, I know I could find an affordable outfit at TJ Maxx, and still have money to buy the ticket. I can have fun shopping, building my wardrobe, and that great feeling of accomplishment of finding the perfect clothes – without going broke. I may not be stylish by the book, but I have my own style, and TJ Maxx helps provide me the assets. I like comfortable clothes, with an edge of artsy/funky. I walk a lot (working downtown) so comfort shoes are a must, and I must look put together for work, but I am not a suit kind of girl. So finding fun pieces to mix and match is my thing and TJ Maxx is perfect.

I just realized I forgot my purses in these photos!!!!! I have many purses from TJ Maxx that I get many compliments on – and they were all affordable. Mark Ekko Red to cute Nine West bags, they are there. Below is a photo of the purses for each outfit – Mark Ekko, 9 West, Rampage & Express – TJ Maxx from $12 -35.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/4.....078735933/

I would never be able to buy many of these brands full price, so I low how nothing is off limits at TJ Maxx – I am often happily surprised at the price tag.

Thanks for the fun contest!

November 5, 2009 at 7:07 pm

brenda368

Member

Two words – cool and confident. This outfit epitomizes my Maxxinista-ness, because it oozes of class, style and confidence, but I didn’t have to break the bank to get it.

http://s858.photobucket.com/al.....ion002.jpg

November 5, 2009 at 7:57 pm

PalmFronds

Okay, here is my last Maxxinista outfit:

http://s938.photobucket.com/al.....ISTA3A.jpg

and here

http://s938.photobucket.com/al.....ISTA3B.jpg

This is a Maxxinista outfit because it is again something that makes me feel fabulous, but is budget friendly versions of higher end pieces. The top,something for which I searched for some time(the perfect bow-tie blouse) was bought at a Banana Republic outlet store(with coupon!). The skirt was also from BR bought three years ago and tailored to fit perfectly. The shoes are my favorite black kitten heels, are Ellen Tracy and bought at TJ Maxx a year ago. I tailor everything to work with those heels

I have always been a Maxxinista–I have been taught by my family that value means high quality bought at a price that you can afford. Since moving to this country as a teenager I found this lesson come to life at TJ Maxx. I learned there for the first time what designer quality meant, and also that I could build the foundation of my wardrobe from that quality without breaking my budget. It is rare for me to put together a complete outfit without using something I bought at TJ Maxx. I almost never buy anything at full price in a department store.I always check TJ Maxx first. I have always been a Maxxinista, and always will be:-)

November 5, 2009 at 8:04 pm

brenda368

Member

i love this outfit – so simple and stylish. I am confident and comfortable, and the Maxxinista in me is bursting with pride. I’m wearing all my favorite designer labels but I didn’t have to take out second mortgage to buy them!

http://s858.photobucket.com/al.....ion001.jpg

November 5, 2009 at 8:06 pm

Misia

Veteran

I live in Canada and I don’t know if I can enter,I went on line for anwsers .TJMaxx have some stores in Canada however when TJMaxx crosses the border he changes his name and becomes Winners.So please let me know if its OK for me to enter or not.
Thank you!

November 5, 2009 at 9:04 pm

Diana

(website)

I think the maxxinista is comfortable in what she wears and who she is. She is not afraid to embrace a few trends, but she also shies away from anything that does not make her look her best.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/7.....039206821/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/7.....039184441/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/7.....4036139122

November 6, 2009 at 3:17 am

bella

(website)

Veteran

Hey Angie and Greg,
I have been trying to post a comment to this entry for a couple of times now with no success. Did you install an approval system where comments have to approved by the site owner? Why can’t I post comments? Thanks!

November 6, 2009 at 9:20 am

bella

(website)

Veteran

Ok, for some reason my comment with outfit pictures won’t go through whereas the previous comment did. I will divide it into two parts and see if it helps. Here we go:

A fabulous giveaway after my own heart as I pride myself on being quite the bargain-shopper! Thank you Angie and TJMaxx!
As a grad student, I have a very limited shopping budget. However, I don’t let financial constraints stop me from looking stylish, edgy and confident. What I lack in funds, I compensate with savvy shopping decisions!
I think the most important elements of being a Maxxinista is defining your style, knowing the flattering cuts and styles for your body but not being afraid of trying new items, cuts and colors. It is all about having fun and feeling good about your body and self-image while doing so!
The outfits I chose represent my Maxxinista style because each element in the outfit is thoughtfully chosen, comfy and flattering for my body and the overall effect is to represent the confident, modern, glamorous woman that I am. I like to invest in pieces that can be worn in multiple ways or can be easily combined with other pieces. I use accessories to finish the look. They are great way of expressing my style and also integrating new trends into my wardrobe without breaking the bank
I am a big fan of shopping at TJMaxx because it suits my style and needs (and, there are about three stores all within a reasonable driving distance of my home and I am sometimes known to hit two of them in one shopping trip!:)) Again, as a grad student, I am usually short on time and at TJMaxx, I can find everything I need in one place from shoes to outerwear, from hosiery to underwear. Even though I may need to do some digging, I love that there are so many different styles and a lot of unique pieces, all reasonably priced. I was particularly impressed with my very recent shopping to TJMaxx last week. All departments were incredibly well-stocked (probably for the holidays) and I swooned over lots of gorgeous winter scarves, hats and coats in addition to everything else in store that was plentiful and inviting. I have to admit though that the best part of shopping at TJMaxx is the man’s section. I always go shopping with my hubby and while he enjoys browsing the various wallets, belts, keychain and numerous gadgets at the men’s section, I can shop away at women’s section without worrying about keeping him waiting!

November 6, 2009 at 9:22 am

bella

(website)

Veteran

So without further ado, here are the outfits I chose that represent my Maxxinista style:

Entry 1:
http://s343.photobucket.com/al.....G_8618.jpg
The shirt is from NY&CO and the pencil skirt is from F21. I pinned the silk flower brooch to the belt for a touch of whimsy. The pearl necklace is from ebay, shoes and bags from Target. The bag adds a pop of color to an otherwise neutral outfit. A pair of textured hose from Marshalls is the finishing touch.

November 6, 2009 at 9:23 am

bella

(website)

Veteran

Entry 2:
http://s343.photobucket.com/al.....G_8563.jpg
A Jcrew inspired look on a grad student budget. I have had the Express editor denim trousers and the green button down shirt from Mudo for a couple of years. I added to the mix a cardi from Old Navy. The most interesting and J-Crewy part of this outfit is the necklace. I have been admiring the stacked necklace trend and finally decided to make my own. With about $10 worth of materials from the craft store and materials I already had at home, voila my beloved statement necklace.

November 6, 2009 at 9:23 am

bella

(website)

Veteran

Entry 3:
http://s343.photobucket.com/al.....-04-30.jpg
This is an oldie but a goodie. Same Express pants remixed. The ruffle shirt is from Old Navy and the red sweater is from Zara. I got the scarf in Belgium over 10 years ago but it is a nice quality silk with a timeless pattern so it is still going strong.

November 6, 2009 at 9:23 am

bella

(website)

Veteran

Entry 4:
http://s343.photobucket.com/al.....-07-23.jpg
A classic black blazer is timeless and can be combined with new items to create trendy looks. Mine is from MNG. The skinny jeans are from Old Navy and the shoes are from Payless. The focal point of this outfit is the necklace which I received from a swap with a fellow YLFer. Swaps are great way to try new things and get new clothes without breaking the bank!

November 6, 2009 at 9:24 am

bella

(website)

Veteran

Entry 5:
http://s343.photobucket.com/al.....09-302.jpg
I love this outfit because again it creates a trendy, sophisticated look with the addition of funky elements (textured hose from Marshalls, stacked necklace, gray boots) to an otherwise conservative outfit (black pleated skirt from Koton, ruffle shirt from Target and cardi from Old Navy)

November 6, 2009 at 9:25 am

bella

(website)

Veteran

Entry 6:
http://s343.photobucket.com/al.....G_8624.jpg
I think this outfit illustrates that sometimes simple can be more. Shirt, jeans and boots are previously remixed. I created a sense of fun and sophistication with the addition of this animal print scarf from Marshalls. The large red tote adds a pop of color.

While I love each and every outfit, I also think that together they show that how a few, versatile, well-chosen items can be combined to create countless stylish looks.
Finally, I would like to say that if you pick me, I will use the money to build my future junior faculty wardrobe, which will in turn contribute to a greater purpose: bringing up the style quotient of one of the notoriously unstylish sectors, academia!:)
Thank you!

November 6, 2009 at 9:25 am

Greg

Administrator

Bella, we have always had a spam system, and for some reason it didn’t like your comment, probably because you included multiple links. Unfortunately a system like this is essential because blogs are bombarded by so many spammers. But I see that you got your entries in by doing them separately. Sorry for the inconvenience.

November 6, 2009 at 9:44 am

greenglove

(website)

Veteran

Putting together an outfit is the same process I use when painting. I aim for a total picture. All things relate to create a harmony that is akin to a work of art. The challenge for this artist who loves quality fabrics and exquisite design is budgetary. I do not earn much money and great clothes are usually expensive. But… T J Maxx has been a reliable source for my needs. I fortunately have many artistic events in my active creative life that call for statement outfits that express a unique and artistic point of view. I often find unusual designer pieces at T J Maxx that are current and affordable. I have 3 outfits that express Maxxinista style:
1. This Vertigo dress when paired with casual boots, patterned tights and chunky jewelry makes me feel confident, boho and chic. I Iove the mixture of shine and matte.

http://i41.photobucket.com/alb.....edhose.jpg
2. This Vertigo coat I found at T J Maxx and wore over the dress. I love the color and cut. It looks and feels like quality. I would not find this fab coat for the price anywhere else.
http://i41.photobucket.com/alb.....G_5282.jpg
3. Leather, silky floral and suede combined for arty but edgy look which I often wear. Jacket and top are from T J Maxx and Marshalls.
http://i41.photobucket.com/alb.....G_5413.jpg

All outfits make me feel confident in my artistic expression and savvy for choosing statement pieces that do not break the bank. Thank you TJMaxx!!

November 6, 2009 at 10:37 am

bella

(website)

Veteran

I figured it must be because of multiple links and the enormous length of the post. I divided the post into smaller chunks and it worked beautifully, no worries!

November 6, 2009 at 10:40 am

greenglove

(website)

Veteran

Greg,
My comment is waiting moderation. Is that a problem?

November 6, 2009 at 10:48 am

Jennifer

(website)

I hope I’m doing this right.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/7.....080354907/

Thanks for the fun contest, Angie! All the outfits are so lovely and inspiring.

I left more comments about my outfit on the photo page.

November 6, 2009 at 11:28 am

greenglove

(website)

Veteran

I think mine went through!
I wanted to clarify that the jacket in outfit #3 is faux leather.

November 6, 2009 at 11:41 am

cindykay

(website)

Here are three typical outfits I wear. They are easy on the budget, and I get compliments when I wear them!

#1–http://www.flickr.com/photos/44429007@N06/4080840165/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/4.....otostream/

These are two different photos of the same outfit, one with the coat, and one without. The boots are from TJMaxx, the cardigan is thrifted, the pants are from a discount store. The tee was on sale at Shade Clothing.

#2– http://www.flickr.com/photos/4.....otostream/

The boots and the clamdiggers are from TJMaxx. The cardigan, clearance at Walmart. The tank, on sale from Shade Clothing. The bag, Walmart. The necklace, inexpensive trinket my daughter brought home from Thailand.

#3– http://www.flickr.com/photos/4.....otostream/

You can’t really see very well, but I’m wearing a white v-neck tee under the sweater. The clothing was all clearance or thrifted. The shoes were half price on Ebay, and so was the bag. The pashmina was also an Ebay bargain.

I’ve just in the last year been re-making my image, now that I’m nearly 50 (!!), and this is the first time I’ve seen photos of myself in my new look. I must be doing a decent job because this is the first time I haven’t cringed in shame when looking at myself in a picture!

November 6, 2009 at 3:22 pm

Lisa

I’m a penniless newlywed, therefore I love TJMaxx. And Ebay, thrift stores, and my mom-in-law, who keeps buying me cute clothes. I love feeling beautiful and confident no matter what I’m doing.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/4.....otostream/
There’s an awesome thrift store in OKC called Plato’s Closet. I got this whole outfit there one afternoon, except the sandals, which are from Journey’s.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/4.....otostream/
camisole and skirt- Rue21, tights- TJMaxx, boots- Shoe Carnival, anklet- WallyWorld, shirt- mom-in-law.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/4.....otostream/
What I am wearing today. I do love these boots, they make me feel tall and confident. t-shirt- gift, corset- Kohls $5 rack, scarf- found on the road in Scotland, jeans- Ebay, boots- Shoe Carnival.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/4.....otostream/
sweater- Kohls, scarf- WallyWorld, earrings- made by yours truly, jeans- Plato’s Closet.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/4.....otostream/
dress- closeout at Target!!! earrings- don’t remember it’s been so long, shoes- Journey’s.

November 6, 2009 at 3:58 pm

Kasmira

(website)

My Maxxinista style:
http://whatiwore2day.blogspot......nista.html

I shop at TJ Maxx because I can find trendy, cute items for less. Then I can save my pennies for splurge items like the velvet scarf I’m wearing and the full-price bag I’m carrying. My Maxxinista style consists of mixing high and low items for my own unique and affordable look.

November 6, 2009 at 6:40 pm

NYMissy

HI,
I am new to YLF. My sister(PalmFronds) talks about this site all the time and I have read some of the blogs but never left comments, so when she told me about the contest I thought I should shed my shyness and jump right in!

I have a few outfits that fit my Maxxinista interpretation.To me a Maxxinista is someone who knows her style and how to put it together within a reasonable budget.My style is simple classic overall but I am still young(younger than my sister!) so I like a little flair. TJMaxx has long been a mainstay of shopping for me.There I have ben able to find basics and classics, as well as trendy upgrades to my wardrobe.Currently I am out of a job so whenever I do shop it REALLY needs to be something that will go the distance and not break my small budget. TJMaxx never disappoints!
Here is outfit 1:
http://s938.photobucket.com/al.....8;newest=1

Cami and black pants from Express, shoes from Belk, amazing cardigan from Marshalls,purse from BR and borrowed from my sister I am doing lots of borrowing these days!

November 6, 2009 at 7:09 pm

NYMissy

Maxxinista outfit 2;

http://s938.photobucket.com/al.....8;newest=1

I love this look because it is the first time I have ever worn a pencil skirt and I LOVE it! That’s one of the best things about TJ Maxx and allowing me to be a Maxxinista– can try something new without breaking the bank.

Knit top from TJMaxx, ruffle pencil skirt from Express, purse from Target(again borrowed from my sister), beaded bracelet from Primark, and shoes from Belk(on sale, as always).Never pay full price!

November 6, 2009 at 7:12 pm

NYMissy

Maxxinista outfit 3:

http://s938.photobucket.com/al.....8;newest=1

This is one of my few trendier outfits but I think still with some classic elements. It is grounded by some great basics, something that shopping at TJMaxx allows me to do very easily. A Maxxinista knows how to stretch her money and starting with good basics is the first step.

Cardigan by Express, tights from Macys’, black booties from Primark, red necklace borrowed from my sister, and red fun bag from Belk

November 6, 2009 at 7:16 pm

NYMissy

Okay last Maxxinista outfit:

http://s938.photobucket.com/al.....8;newest=1

This is my Maxxinista outfit because it is anchored by one fab piece, that jacket, and it is SO easy to find a standout piece at TJMaxx. I owe my sister on this one because she found that jacket at a Zara but relinquished it to me.It is one of the nicest jackets I own and adore it.
Brown faux suede wrap jacket from Zara, jeans from Express, green scarf from streets of London, bag from Belk and shoes from shoe outlet in Orlando.

Thanks for allowing me to be a part of your blog and this wonderful contest! Now that my sister has me hooked, I’ll be following.

November 6, 2009 at 7:20 pm

Amanda D.

Sometimes I feel my best budget outfits are the simplest ones. This outfit is made up of a very inexpensive Gap jacket winter clearance 2007. The turtleneck is H & M Fall 2009.
The distressed white pants are on clearance at the Gap 2009. The loafers were a real find at Goodwill they were new in Winter of 2009. The bag in from H & M Fall 2009. Thank you!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/schatzi2009/

November 6, 2009 at 8:53 pm

marianna

Veteran

Hello again Dianna and Angie! The competition is really heating up so I have a couple more Maxxinista outfits to show you!

I just graduated college this September and have been struggling to find a full time job. I am slowly starting my career in the television industry and it is important for me to dress well and feel confident in my clothes while I go through the emotional process of job hunting. I don’t have a big budget to spend on clothes, but thanks to TJ Maxx and similar stores, I am able to occasionally add items to my wardrobe. My lifestyle is very casual and here are three casual examples of my casual Maxxinista style:

1) http://i985.photobucket.com/al.....G_2149.jpg
Grey skinny jeans from Faith 21 (Forever 21), Torrid houndstooth jacket, purple Naturalizer boots purchased during their boot sale and with 20% off coupon code from retailmenot.com, pearl necklace from Urban Outfitters years ago.

2) http://i985.photobucket.com/al.....G_2144.jpg
Michael by Michael Kors mod dress via Nordstrom Rack, cream sweater purchased for $1 from You Look Fab forum member, leggings from Target, slouchy boots via Nordstrom Rack.

3) http://i985.photobucket.com/al.....G_2060.jpg
Boyfriend cardigan purchased for $1 from YLF forum member, Old Navy graphic tee, Torrid skinnies, Me Too wedges.

Thank you for your consideration. I would be SO appreciative and thankful if I was awarded the TJ Maxx voucher. My financial situation has been tough lately, but my wish list is a mile long. I’d love to be able to add a few fun new pieces to my wardrobe, as well as buy my boyfriend a couple new things as well!

Good luck to all the contestants! All the outfits are gorgeous and I am so impressed.

November 6, 2009 at 9:46 pm

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Wow! I’m impressed ladies. Some of these outfits are absolutely KILLER. Dianna has her work cut out for her trying to pick a winner. Best of luck

November 6, 2009 at 11:36 pm

The winner of the TJ Maxx Competition!

(website)

[…] many, many superb outfits in the running for the TJ Maxx competition last week, it was hard to come up with a single winner. But our judge Dianna, the Budget Babe, managed to […]

January 22, 2010 at 1:45 pm

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