So do you really want to know the key to maximizing your wardrobe or home decor budget? Use the power of ACCESSORIES!

A simple dress or shirt that you have had for years can be instantly transformed with the addition of a new belt, bold necklace or scarf.

A plain, neutral couch or chair in your basement can be brought back to life with a few colorful pillows and a throw.

Accessorizing is also a great way to allow your personal, unique style to shine through. And adding new accessories don't have to be expensive, either!  Look for 50% days at your favorite stores and head for the accessories department. (That is usually how I add to my collection!)
 
For home decorating, shop at off-price retail stores, such as Home Goods, and TJMaxx. I have also found some AMAZING finds at thrift stores!

Have fun with accessories, but beware of collecting TOO much stuff that you don't have the room for OR won't coordinate with your existing wardrobe or decor!  It may help to make a list of the the specific pieces or outfits that you need the accessories for. Then, you can buy with confidence, knowing that everything was bought with a purpose.

Before you know it, your wardrobe or home decor will be versatile and "working" for you, not the other way around!

Are you staying cool so far this summer? 

For summer vacations, family bar-b-ques and everything else that has us out in the heat (whew!), here are some things that has helped me avoid summer heat fashion "meltdown":

- Wear fabrics that allow your skin to BREATHE! Natural fibers like cotton and linen will do the trick. They assist in the body's natural cooling process by allowing perspiration to escape AWAY from the body once it evaporates. Most synthetic fibers have the opposite effect. The result? Your body cannot cool properly and you will be more hot than you need to be! In this extreme heat, who wants that?

- Let "light" colors be your friend! Light colors reflect light while dark colors absorb light... remember that from Science class? So your favorite black tee or dress may not keep you the coolest during your outdoor outing!

-Use hats to help diffuse the heat. The skin on your face and neck are more delicate and should be well protected in direct sunlight. (You've heard of premature wrinkles, right? Well, some can come from too much sun exposure!) There are some very  fashionable floppy and wide brim hats or visors  that would serve the purpose nicely... even if you are not a "hat" person! Or just use a small umbrella to shield the sun. Oh, and please don't forget the sunglasses! (Suited for YOUR face shape, of course!)

-Last but not least, is my latest discovery: Portable neck fans!! These battery operated fans can hang from your neck, clip onto a belt loop or purse and help bring a refreshing "artificial" cool breeze your way when the air is hot and stagnant. I had one with me on my family's recent trip to Disney World and fell in LOVE with it. They are small, ine and virtually weightless, but pack a powerful punch. Nowadays, you will not catch me at too many summer outdoor events without one!

So, as you can see, the extreme heat does not have to cramp your "style." Now, what are some of YOUR personal style "keeping cool" secrets?