Fall Favorites // The Frugal Edition

Boots // 1, 2,3
Sweaters // 1,2
Purses // 1, 2, 3

Booties with a slight heel are a must-have on my fall wishlist. I will always love a good pair of knee-high boots, but I have a special place in my heart for the casual yet sophisticated feeling of these ankle boots.

Layering pieces like these open cardigans are essential for Southern California residents. I long for the days when wearing a full pea coat is appropriate, but for now these darling and cozy layering sweaters will be a staple in my closet.

Neutral and Structured handbags are my weakness. Since the fall reminds me of school time, of course, I'm drawn to bigger and more structured bags that can fit a laptop and a few books. Not to mention, the neutral colors of the bags above are the perfect pair for the mustard yellows and burgundy red hues of fall. 

What's Ahead? + Wardrobe Essentials

This month, my plate is stacked high with several new commitments and a busy season at the office. Additionally, I've found new purpose for regularly updating Sparkles and Prays and find it brings me so much joy during rather routine workdays. With that said, I have a ton of great DIY posts coming up in the future, including a post to highlight some awesome wooden spectacles by an up and coming brand called Woodzee. Nonetheless, until I have the time to dedicate 100 percent to those new additions, I'll be creating simple yet helpful write-ups about style and beauty that will allow me a break from editing work and hopefully provide an inspiring retreat for you readers as well. 

In addition, a huge shout out to all my new followers, thank you so much for joining me in this journey! I am humbled by your comments and your time! (And I just purchased my own domain name to get rid of the blogspot.com at the end of the web address. Now, you can simply find Sparkles and Prays via sparklesandprays.com!)

Now, for some fashion eye candy. Here are some of my wardrobe must-haves, each for $25 and under! 

Basic V-Neck Tees: My absolute favorite closet staple is a white v-neck shirt. I can dress it up or down, pair it with a statement necklace or printed scarf. Whatever mood I'm in, I gravitate towards this basic foundation.

Watches: I have one Marc by Marc Jacobs rose gold watch (similar here) that seems to go with every outfit I own. I love the pop of coral in this wrap watch, and think this timeless piece (no pun intended) is a must-have.

Waist-Cinching Belts: I have about 5 different belts that I wear on a regular basis, including one leopard print skinny belt like the one above, which adds so much to a basic outfit. I think both curvy and athletic body types call for at least one waist-cinching belt in your wardrobe. Pair with a high-waisted skirt or around the waist of a flowy top.

Nude Heels: You've heard it time and time again. Skin-colored heels lengthen your legs and go with any color.

Chic Heeled Boots: Wearing boots makes me feel more pulled together than any other shoe in my closet. Something about the clean line of a knee-high boot brings me both confidence and comfort.

Preppy Cardigans: Maybe it's just because I started working in an office, but I've fallen in love with cardigans. I have about one in every color! Some with fun buttons, patterns, pockets, and ruffles. I think this extra layer is an easy way to pull together a look, both casual and dressed up.

Delicate Necklaces: I've become a huge fan of small necklaces that you can wear everyday. I absolutely love the quirky "hello" charm on this gold necklace, and it's only $6.99!

Method to the Madness

*Warning this post may increase your chances of shopaholicism

Long lines, dressing rooms, and pesky sales people are easily avoidable during your shopping experience nowadays.

There's just something about online shopping that gets me every time. Yes, it has its downfalls. You can't try on the clothes and shipping costs are not always ideal. But what's better than shopping from the comfort of your own home? It's worth the extra cash for convenience. And honestly, I find most of my best deals online anway. I like to think of it as my "spiritual gift", but I'm pretty sure that's not biblical.

Anyway, here is a simple breakdown of my favorite clothing websites, tips, and tricks for navigating the cyber shopping world.