It's Been Real

Alas!!  We are saying goodbye to 2013.  We want to thank you all for your business throughout the year.  It has been a pleasure to serve each and every one of you.  We look forward to many exciting adventures in 2014 as we continue to bring you new and used clothing perfect for the fashion and budget savvy shopper.

Please keep in mind that we will be closed today and tomorrow as we spend time with family and friends.  However we look forward to seeing you next year (a.k.a. Thursday.)

It's Not Too Late

It's hard to believe that News Years Eve is...TOMORROW!!  With Thanksgiving and Christmas so close in proximity and then the holidays falling in the middle of the week, it just seems like it's sneaked up on us.  

So if you're in a fashion lurch and can't find something to wear, don't worry.  We have a few suggestions. 

Start with "A Little Black Dress."  Chances are that you already have one in your closet.  If not, don't be afraid invest in a new one.  The old cliche' is right, every girl needs a LBD.  Once you have a style and cut that suits you, accessorize accordingly.  Stick with pearls for a wine and champagne kind of party, or pull out the bling if your're heading out for a moral lively night. 

Don't be afraid to splurge a little.  Chances are that you can find another reason to wear your New Years Eve dress.  Maybe you have a wedding coming up, or a bachelorette party, or even and dance or formal. Going on a cruise later this summer?  Think ahead.  Proper planning could justify the investment or even save you money in the long run.

One more thing.  Consider shopping consignment.  We have a huge variety of gowns that would be perfect for New Years Eve.  Fun, fashionable, flirty dresses for half the cost!  Why not start your new year off on the right track by conserving a little cash!!

Merry Christmas

From all of us at Michelle's, we would like to wish you and your family a very, Merry Christmas!

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

In honor of Christmas Eve we wanted to show you one of our favorite prom gowns.  As you can see, it's a Pinterest copy look.  It's a size six and retails for $275.

It would make a great prom dress (hint hint.) Come see us on Thursday!

Holiday Hours

Bowling Green Store: 

Closed Monday, December 23-Wednesday, December 25 

Closed Tuesday, December 31 and Wednesday, January 1.

Glasgow Store:

Closed Tuesday, December 24 - Wednesday, December 25

ClosedTuesday, December 31 and Wednesday, January 1.

Pinterest Copy Look

For this week's Pinterest Copy Look, we found this flirty and color outfit.  Obviously, we're in the dead of winter, so we chose to go with a long sleeve shirt, but you could play with it a little.  All you need are some red trousers and a blue and white print top. 

This blouse is long sleeved, but it's also different in the fact  that the strips are vertical rather than horizontal.  As you can see, it doesn't really change the overall effect...although it will be more slenderizing, so yay!!

We've also added our own accessories.  The necklace, bag and shoes just polish off the look.  The best part, it's all consignment items which means you can a designer look and brand for less than half the cost of buying a new outfit.

Kate

Who doesn't love The Duchess of Cambridge?  Kate is beautiful, and her style is utterly perfect.  Hello...the Crown Jewels are at her disposal!!  Can you even imagine?

"Yes, I'll wear the 25 carat ruby today.  Oh, and save the diamond tiara for tomorrow."

One can dream.

Anyway, her style...It's the perfect combination of tradition and modern.  Of course not everyone has a monarchy behind them to support their fashion needs.  Worry not.  We've got you covered. 

We have plenty of princess inspired gowns that are affordable.  So, whether you're headed to a Christmas Party, a New Year's Celebration, or even Prom, be sure to stop in and see us.  We'll find the perfect gown for you. 

All I Want For Christmas Is.....

We're starting to wonder what might be on your holiday wish list this year.  

Perhaps you want some new jewelry.  May we suggest a statement necklace?  No matter what style or color, they're sure to add some flair to your wardrobe.

Need new shoes?  Try some boots.  They can be worn with practically anything from leggings to jeans to skirts.  One purchase can add a variety of looks to your closet.  Plus, whoever gets them for you would feel good knowing they're as practical as they are fashionable. 

If you want a splurge gift, consider a nice purse.  You can't beat the convenience of a large bag.  Plus they're fashionable.  You can justify the extra expense by telling yourself that it's an investment piece...and it is.  

Dresses

We know you've been busy checking names off your list, planning family pictures, looking for ugly Christmas sweaters, and generally trying to stay on top of everything.  Throw in a Christmas formal and it's chaos.   

We want to help, so we thought you might like to see some of our designer dresses that are arriving daily. We have dresses in all sizes, colors, and cuts.  

We also keep accessories like earrings, shoes, and head gear.  It's one stop shopping which makes the most of your time while also stretching your dollar. 

Would you believe that we don't just have winter formals?  We're actually seeing a lot of Prom shoppers.  Whatever your occasion we want you to stop by.  

We'd also love to take your formals.  If you're cleaning out the closet or want to make extra cash, be sure to consign with us. 

Pinterest Copy

This time of year you're probably spending a lot of time stuck waiting somewhere.  From traffic, to the school pick up line, to the doctor's office, to the line for Santa...just waiting...and it can get boring!!  If you're anything like us, that means your smart phone becomes your BFF, which is how we found this week's Pinterest inspired look. 

It's a great look for the holidays.  The black trousers and jacket are paired perfectly for an outfit that transitions easily from business to fun.  Let's face it, you may not get to run home before hitting up the mall or heading to the school Christmas play. Plus, the gold adds a bit of holiday shimmer. 

We copied the look easily by using items found in our Glasgow store.  For under $30 you could have a fresh, professional, fun, holiday look.  Spend a little extra money on yourself a little bit can go such a long way. 

Now, That's Much Better

We've had some fun this week laughing at the tackiness that somehow finds its way into the holiday season.  From awkward family photos to ugly Christmas sweaters, it just seems to part of it..sorta like Egg Nog and Santa.  And since Christmas sweaters aren't going to leave any time soon, we thought we would show you an example of how to better utilize the trend.

Now, that is much better.  This is a wonderful example of how a traditional Christmas sweater can be better worn, and dare we say it...stylish.  Here you have the perfect combination of skinny jeans and brown boots. That's easy enough since almost everyone has some variation of the two in their closets.

  What could get tricky is the black sweater.  It's a traditional yet borderline "dated" print,  but this model pulls it off perfectly by adding a touch of red with a tank keeping out.  

We say skip the Christmas sweater unless you're headed to an Ugly Sweater Party or spicing it up like this example. 

Ugly Christmas Sweaters

Do you ever wonder what happens to all the ugly Christmas sweaters every year?

They take a magical journey from grandma's closet all the way across town to stores like ours where a friendly clerk eagerly puts them in a safe place until the next holiday season.

Then every year after the leaves fall from the trees and the turkeys grace the tables,  those same sweaters triumphantly return to the clothing racks just in time for all the Ugly Christmas Sweater Parties.

Lucky for you, we've stocked up and your ugly Christmas sweater awaits you at Michelle's.

Awkward Family Photos

The first day back at work after a long weekend can be such a drag, so we thought that we would try to make getting back into the grind a little easier.  It's that time of year when we all start thinking about our annual Christmas card, and for most, that means some kind of family portrait.  We're hoping that you don't use any of these as inspiration.

These poor children have been subjected to their parents' tackiness.  Matching sweaters are never a good idea.  NEVER.  Please, if you're going to coordinate, pick a color scheme not a sweater theme.

Poor kid.  Glamour shots and Santa hats don't mix. Come to think about it, just don't do Glamour Shots or Santa hats. NEVER EVER!!!

We're not sure who came up with this idea, but it was an epic bust.  Where do you find this kind of thing? Here's an even better question.  Where do you find this many people willing to wear that?

Do you think this was an attempt from siblings to give parents a Christmas present or do you think this is just a portrait of three hopelessly fashion deprived individuals?  

So let us some of this post for you.  Please say no to tacky Christmas sweaters, unless of course you need them for a Tacky Christmas Sweater Party.  That we can handle.

Avoid The Rush...Shop With Us

We want to make you Black Friday shopping as painless as possible, so we have some great deals available at both store locations.  Check it out...

Glasgow Store: 

 25% off all Chevron Shirts and Dresses

10% Off Entire Store 10:00 - 2:00

Bowling Green Store: 

25% off all Chevron Shirts and Dresses

Free Necklace/Earring Set with purchase of a dress

Be sure to stop by and see us...happy shopping to you!!!

Happy Thanksgiving

We would like to wish you and yours a blessed holiday season.  May you have the most wonderful Thanksgiving surrounded by family, friends, and those you hold dear. 

More Present Ideas

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving which means you're going to be gorging yourself on goodies and scouring the adds for Black Friday Sales.  Well, we want to take some of the pressure off of you by offering some Christmas gift suggestions.  Some of which will be on sale Friday at both store locations....

Yesterday we talked Chevron, but we just wanted to remind you that we have lots of colors available, so stop by to see some of the accessories perfect for anyone on your list. 

Our jewelry selection doesn't end with Chevron.  In fact, that's just the tip of the iceberg.  We think these bracelets would be perfect for a stocking-stuffer, teacher, coworker or friend. 

We've also got bags galore.  We know the value of a good purse.  Better yet, we know the value of a good price, so before you head to an expensive department store, be sure to stop by.  Who knows, you might even save enough money to get two - one for a gift, and one for yourself!!

Don't forget our boots.  They are sure to be perfect for someone on you list, and they come in a variety of colors.  Just in case that someone on your list isn't in to boots, we've got all kinds of shoes.  Best of all, you can get them in Glasgow or Bowling Green. 

Those are just a few of our gift ideas.  Don't forget to stop by to browse through our men's and children's clothing.  We're sure you could find something to wear for the annual family photo.  Plus, we've got you covered when it comes to holiday parties and formals.

Be sure to check back on Friday to find out what's on sale....

Christmas Present Ideas

If you're anything like us, you may have had a moment of panic this past Sunday when you realized that Friday marks the beginning of shopping seasons.  Even worse - you only have four weeks and four days from that point to actually make a list and check it twice.

Never fear....Michelle's is here, and we've got some great gift ideas for you.

We suggest giving the gift of Chevron this Christmas.  Whether it's a dress, a shirt, a scarf, or jewelry, you can't go wrong with this popular print.  Plus, you're sure to find something in your price range.

We think this bracelet would be the perfect present for a coworker or teacher.  It can add a little something extra to any outfit.  Plus, it comes in a variety of color combinations. 

If you need a little something for a church event or even Sunday School teacher, may we suggest a set of Chevron Cross Earnings?  Or how about this scarf for a friend or as a stocking stuffer.  Again, we're sure to have a color that would suit you. 

Whether you're looking for a friend, a teacher, a coworker or yourself, we're sure to have something perfect.  From dresses and shirts to jewelry and scarves, we're going to make Christmas shopping a little easier for you.  Plus, these items are available at both store locations.  Even better...some of them will be marked down on Black Friday.  Check back to find out...

Give-A-Way Details

Earlier we announced that we will be giving away a gift card just in time for the holidays.  First we need to reach 250 followers on Twitter.  Once that happens, we will give one lucky winner a gift certificate.  So start spreading the word!! You will get one entry per social media follow.

1. So, follow us on one social media platform (such as Twitter) for one entry.

2. If you follow us on Twitter and Facebook that's two entries.

3. Twitter, Facebook and Instgram would be three entries.

4. You'll get four entries for Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

5. For a fifth entry be sure to follow this blog. (Any combination of the above social media platforms count)

6 - 10. You can add up to four more entries by sharing our post, re-tweeting us, or sharing this link on Instagram or Facebook.  Once you've followed and shared us, be sure to comment below to let us know which social media platforms you're following and how many times you've share.

Please keep in mind that you can share our contest and pages as many times as you wish.  However, you will only recieve one entry per social media platform.  For example, if you share us 2 times and Twitter and 3 times on Facebook, you will only get two entries and not five...one her platform.

A Little House Keeping

We have decided to do another give-a-way just in time for the holidays.  We'll be announcing the details soon, but in the mean time we wanted to let you know that there will several ways to enter.  You may want to start following on social mediums:

1. Pinterest: Michellescboutique

2. Facebook: Michelle's Consignment Boutique

3. Instagram: Michellecboutique

4. Twitter: MichellesCB

We'll have more details tomorrow, but for now you may want to follow us because each follow is one entry for the give-a-way.  Good Luck!!!

Olivia Pope's Coats

Yesterday we talked all about Olivia Pope's core wardrobe, so today we're excited to show you how you too can find killer coats that will fit your body style.  We suggest sticking with neutral colors for your first few coat purchases.  They are timeless and will be worth the investment since a good coat never goes out of style. 

Pear Shaped Ladies: This coat is simple and classic as are all of the coats you see Olivia wear.  The focal point here is the neckline.  It's rather dramatic, but in a romantic kind of way.  We suggest this look if you're full on the bottom half  because it will bring an illusion of an hour glass shape.  Plus, the eye is drawn to the coat's unique neckline which is more flattering than your bottom bum.

Hour Glass Shaped Ladies: If you're luck enough to fall into this category, play it up.  A classic coat is perfect for you.  Just don't forget the belt.  It will really accentuate  your small waist which is nice with the added bulk of layers.  Here's another tip: if you happen to be short, try a coat hemmed at the knee.  It will add the illusion of extra length.

Inverted Triangle Shape: If you're upper half is larger than your lower half, you can add some flare to the bottom of your coat.  Here you see an A-line look on Olivia Pope.  The extra material at the bottom eludes to a more proportionate figure.  Plus, we think this is so feminine. 

Here's the thing, you can have an Olivia Pope coat that looks stunning on you.  It's as simple as figuring out what is best for your body type.  If you get tired of the neutral colors invest in some fun accessories like gloves and scarves.  You'll still look like a class act - only you'll be able to show your true colors. 

Olivia Pope: Core Wardrobe

We get that you're not going to be busting out the Olivia Pope style for your causal fashion needs.  Let's face it, it's just not practical.  However, we're convinced that this is the perfect look for a business or professional setting, and looking good really doesn't have to break the bank. Here are a few pieces that you might need...

1. Two Pantsuits - we suggest doing one in a dark color such as black, gray, or navy and doing the other in a light color such as beige or ivory.  Stay away from white since it is seasonal.  You may want to sink some money into these suits since you can wear them again and again.  Two suits with six tops equals twelve outfits.  Also, may we suggest having your suit tailored to our body?  It takes a little more effort which shows..in a good way.

2. Dress Shirts - this is where you can get creative.  Olivia Pope sticks with neutral colors like you see pictured above.  However, you can show some personality by adding color or even a nice print.  The key is making sure that the blouse is well fitted and versatile.  A camisole would look great, but isn't the best choice if you need an "office to drinks" wardrobe change.  We suggest purchasing dress shirts that go well under suits but could stand on their own in a more casual setting. 

3. Classic Pumps - you'll notice that Olivia Pope never wears outlandish or over the top shoes.  There's a time and a place for that, and for the most part, work isn't it. We understand that a lot of you stand all day or just aren't fond of wearing high heels.  That's not a problem.  You can mimic this look with a classy flat - not flip flops!!  The key is to make sure your shoes are work friendly and compliment your suit and other accessories. 

4. The Coat - you knew this one was coming.  Olivia Pope's coats have taken on a persona of their own. Here you see a very tailored, button down coat with a belt.  It's timeless.  It's flattering.  It's practical. We would suggest starting your coat collection with a neutral color such as white, gray, black or beige.  Keep them in good shape, because a classy coat never goes out of style.  Once you have a solid core coat collection, add some personality by mixing it up with colors, but stay away from the prints. 

5. An Oversize Bag - these are pretty easy to come across these days, and don't think you have to go for a designer label.  What's important here is projecting an image, not promoting a brand.  The good thing is that a large bag can double as a brief case, a diaper bag, a gym bag, or a purse.

6. The Smart Phone - if you're watching Scandal you know that Olivia Pope doesn't go anywhere without her phone.  It's a necessary accessory.  Our only suggestion - mind your manners and pay attention to the people you see in real life.  

Olivia Pope

Do you watch ABC's hit show Scandal?  If not, you're missing out.  Really, you are.  Forget about how awesome it is when Olivia Pope kicks butt, or how she's having an affair with the President, or how she lives in constant fear for her life thanks to her CIA leading Daddy.   

That's all good, but what you're really missing out on are the killer Olivia Pope fashions.  Don't believe us?  Just google, "olivia pope" or type it in your search bar on Pinterest.  No sooner than you hit enter will you see a million pictures pop up of her wardrobe.

At first sight it's nothing fancy.  We'd say classy at best.  But then again there has to be something to her iconic style because her tailored looks are making their way to the runways and filling up our fashion magazines.

So, we thought we would get on board too.  This week we'll explore what goes into pulling together a tailored and classy look with a sense of freshness and youth.  We'll examine her work and formal looks as well as talk about her infamous coats.  Plus, we'll show you how to pull off an Olivia Pope copy look on a budget.  So check back every day this week.  

It's going to be...Scandalous.  Ok, not really...but we hope you check back!

Veteran's Day

We would like to wish a Happy Veteran's Day to the men and women who have served our country.