Thrifty Wife Happy Life

Helping women love what they wear on a budget

Simple Summer Sundress

by Katie Haller

Since Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, I guess you can say that summer is here.  That means I’m trying to buy clothes that can get me through the heat of a desert summer.  One style for me that always gets me through the summer is a simple sundress.  My wardrobe is filled with simple casual dresses. 

This dress that I’m sharing today is from ThredUP, of course!  It’s an H&M dress that was only $7.99.  The dress was brand new with the tags on it still!  I love the pattern on this dress.  I’m trying to force myself to try out different patterns, besides stripes when I have the chance.  A dress like this is easy to style.  All you need to do is throw on some jewelry and some sandals and you are ready to go!  I wore my new Madden Girl sandals that I found at Burlington Coat Factory for only $9.99!  They are my everyday go-to sandals for this summer. 

Shop Similar Styles

The Truth About Marriage

by Katie Haller

This weekend my husband and I will be celebrating our 7th wedding anniversary.  In some ways, I feel like we just got married yesterday. In other ways, I feel like we’ve been together forever.  It’s hard to remember my life before we got together.  I don’t typically like to get too personal with my blog posts, but since May is our anniversary month, I wanted to share a post on marriage.  I’m not an expert on this topic, so it makes me a little nervous to talk about, but I’m not really an expert on anything I post on this blog, so I figured I’d go ahead and post it anyway.  Besides, it’s a perfect excuse to share some of my favorite wedding pictures.  

When I met my husband, we were 21 and in college.  He was in a fraternity and I was in a sorority.  Back then I wasn’t thinking about marriage.  I knew I wanted to get married one day, but at that point in my life, I was more concerned with having fun with my friends and marriage seemed so far in the future.  We hung around in the same crowd for most of college, but it wasn’t until after Kevin graduated college that I had any interest in dating him.  He had gotten a job at the university as a flight instructor, and I started to see him out and about more and more.  One thing led to another and before I knew it we were seriously dating.  Things just seemed to fall into place with us.  It wasn’t like my other college relationships where I was wondering what was going on with us or waiting around for a phone call.  Things just seemed so natural with us.  It didn’t take us long to decide we wanted to get married.  After 2 years of dating, Kevin purposed to me.  A year later we married.  

Now it’s been 10 years of being together and I couldn’t imagine my life without him.  He is such a huge part of my life.  He’s my best friend.  I think of all the things we have done together and the goals we have accomplished.  It makes me so proud.  We’ve both grown a lot in the last 10 years.  Now after 7 years of being married, I feel like I have a better understanding of marriage.  I’m still learning, but I’m a little older and wiser.  So here is the truth about marriage from what I’ve learned so far. 
Marriage is a life long commitment
That’s kind of a given, but I really don’t think that this hits you until after you say I do.  At least for me, I knew the commitment that I was making, but I didn’t really think about this that deeply.  Forever is a long time and things might change, but you learn to grow together.  My husband and I have changed a lot in 10 years.  Our relationship together started out in a frat house at a party, now we are parents together and one day we will be retired and hopefully be grandparents.  I look forward to all those things and I look forward to doing them with him.  I know that I can only have that if we work together to make the future happened.  

No one has the perfect marriage
It’s never good to compare your marriage to other’s, because we are all different.  No one has the perfect marriage, even if they look like they do on social media, they don’t.  Sadly I think a lot of marriages fail because they think “the grass is always greener on the other side”.  I always say that contentment is the key to happiness.  It’s a hard thing to accomplish, but if you are content with your marriage you will be happy.   
It’s okay to fight
They say opposites attract and in my case that is so true.  My husband and I are so different from each other.  He is a logical thinker and see’s everything in black and white.  I’m emotional and see everything in grey.  Sometimes we disagree and it’s not always pretty, but that’s okay.  It wouldn’t seem right if we agreed on everything.  Sometimes you need to fight and get things out.  No matter how different we are, we always have one thing in common and that is our love for each other.

You can’t be selfish
I’ll admit it, I’m a selfish person at times.  I like to do what I want, but when you’re married you can’t be that way.  You have to make compromises.  It’s not always easy, but sometimes you learn that things turn out for the best when you find a common ground.

Have a plan/ set goals together
I married a planner.  He plans everything and he’s never disappointed me.  It’s important to sit down and talk about your future together.  You need to talk about your financial goals, your family goals and your career goals.  The best thing in our relationship has been the open and honest communication about our future together.  They say life is what happens when you’re making plans, but that’s why the plans are always changing to keep up with your life.  

Like I said before, I’m not an expert on marriage.  My marriage is a work in progress.  It’s not perfect, but it is beautiful.  I wouldn’t want to go through this life with anyone else.

Simple and Classic Outfit- White Blouse and Jeans

by Katie Haller

Lately, I’ve been working on stocking my closet with a lot of basic wardrobe pieces.  I would say that I am pretty well stocked up, but there is always room for more.  This outfit above is the perfect example of how I used 4 simple wardrobe pieces to build a fun and stylish look. Read on to learn more about each piece. 

*This post contains affiliate links, which means by clicking on and/or making a purchase through a link, I will make a small commission for this blog.  Thank you for your support!
White Blouse Thrifted from ThredUP (Target) || Similar options HERE, HERE and HERE
I didn’t know how much I was in need of a white blouse until I found this one.  It’s so simple, but it goes with everything.  I used to hate wearing white shirts because I was always worried that my bra would show through, but I recently bought some bralettes at TJMaxx (similar HERE) and they have been a real game-changer for me.  I can finally wear white tops without worrying about my bra showing through.  I’m wearing my nude-colored bralette with this top. 

Dark Skinny Jeans Thrifted from Savers (Old Navy) || Similar options HERE and HERE
I love a good pair of dark skinny jeans.  They are the best jeans to dress up.  You can easily throw on some heels or a blazer and it makes it a work look or a great look for an evening out.  The jeans I’m wearing in this post are Old Navy Rockstar jeans, but I bought them at Savers for only $2.25!!!   

Strappy Heeled Sandals thrifted from ThredUP || Similar options HERE and HERE
I’ve been wanting shoes like this for the longest time.  They remind me of Barbie’s shoes because I feel like they mold your foot into the way a Barbie doll’s foot is.  I found these shoes at ThredUP.  I’ve said this over and over again, but if you’re going to buy used shoes, ThredUP is the best place to buy them.  These shoes are in almost perfect condition. 

Black Satchel Purse Last Call Neiman Marcus || Similar options HERE and HERE
I have had this satchel purse now for over a year now and I never get sick of it.  It’s such a classic look.  They no longer have this purse at Last Call Neiman Marcus, but you can find it on Amazon HERE for under 40!! 

Before I end this post, I just have to share this last picture, because while I was taking pictures in this outfit, my favorite little guy wanted to do some modeling in his outfit too.  It was just too cute, I had to share one of the pictures.  He’s the reason why it’s been taking me weeks to write this blog post.  Every time I get out the computer to write, he pulls me away to go play.  It’s okay though.  How can I resist that face!  I hope you have a great week!!

Spring Fashion with ThredUp

by Katie Haller

I’ve always enjoyed thrift shopping, but it wasn’t until the last couple of years that I became addicted to it.  For me, I love the thrill that thrift shopping gives me.  There is nothing better than walking out of a thrift store with a bag full of new clothes that you spent under $20 for.  When I became a mom, it really changed the way I shopped for myself.  I started to feel guilty spending too much money on myself when I knew I could be using that money towards my family.  That’s why thrifting has become my favorite way to shop.  Not to mention, I really love the idea of recycling your fashion.  It can be so wasteful to go shopping all the time, and then only wear your clothes for a couple of months.  Why not buy second-hand clothes and donate your old clothes?

I know that thrifting is not for everyone, and I feel like the number one excuse that I hear from people is that “I never find anything good.”  I hear ya!  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked into a Goodwill or Savers and left empty-handed.  It’s hard to pick through and find the buried treasures.  Plus so many of the clothes can be very worn or outdated.  This is why I love shopping at ThredUP.
 
*This post is part of a collaboration with ThredUP.  It also contains affiliate links, which means by making a purchase through a link, I will make a small commission for this blog.  All opinions are 100% my own.  Thank you for your support! 
If you’re not familiar with ThredUP, it’s an online thrift store that sells name brand and designer clothes and accessories at up to 90% off of the retailed price.  ThredUP is the perfect thrift store for the people who say they can “never find anything good” when thrift shopping.  Their filter system makes it so easy to find what you’re looking for.  You can filter by size, style, prices, brands and more. Thrift shopping can be time-consuming, that’s why I love how convenient it is to sit on the couch and search through the clothes.  When I like something, I add it to my favorites.  If you want to hold something you like, you can put it into your cart for 24 hours.  The best thing about ThredUP for me is that every item that I have received from them has come to me in perfect condition.  You would never believe that it was used.  Unlike other thrift stores that take all the donations and sell them in the store, ThredUP only sells gently worn items.  Many of their clothes still have the tag on them.  
For this post, I’m sharing 3 outfits that I picked out on ThredUP.  I found 2 dresses, 1 top, 1 skirt and one pair of sandals all under $50!!  
 One-shoulder spring wedding guest dress
I loved this one-shoulder ruffle dress.  It came with the tags on it and was $7.99.  I don’t have anything like it in my closet.  It has very light material, so I know that it will be perfect this summer in the heat.  It’s the perfect dress for a bridal/baby shower or even a casual summer wedding.
I love the fit of an empire waist wrap dress, so when I saw this dress I knew I had to get it.  It was only $9.99.  I think that this style of dress is flattering on all body types.  It’s also a great style for nursing moms or early pregnancy.  I also found these cream-colored sandals for $6.99.  My sandal collection has been in need of an update lately.  I’m always nervous about buying second-hand shoes because you never know what kind of condition they will be in.  Every time I’ve ordered a pair of shoes from ThredUP, they have come to me in perfect condition.  You can’t even tell anyone had ever worn them.  
Obviously, I can’t ever resist black and white stripes.  It’s such a classic look, so when I came across this Ann Taylor striped skirt for only $7.99,  I couldn’t help myself.  It has a stretchy waist, so it’s comfortable to wear casually.  I also found this white blouse from Target for $7.99, which I’m currently loving.  I never knew how great a white blouse can be.  You can wear it with almost anything.  I wore my sandals with this look.  I felt like this would be a great look for work, if your a teacher or want something a little more casual for the office this summer.  It’s also a great look for church.
I want to say a big thanks to ThredUP for sponsoring this post and letting me have a shopping spree!  This is not the last post you will see with my ThredUP summer clothes.  I’ve just had 3 more polka dot boxes come my way, so I can’t wait to share.  I highly recommend checking out ThredUP if you’re looking to update your summer wardrobe.  Happy Shopping to all of you!!!

Mom-Friendly Fashion

by Katie Haller

Today I want to talk to you about something that is now a big part of my life.  It’s called “mom-friendly fashion”.   Before I became a mom, I got dressed every morning without worrying about the little things.  I just put together a cute look that I felt good in and went on my way.  Now that I’m a mom there is so much to think about when getting dressed in the morning.  Is my shirt high enough that my toddler will not expose me to the world today?  Is my purse big enough to fit all the snacks we need to get through our afternoon outing?  Are my shoes comfortable enough to climb up the climber at the playground and go down the slide in?  There is just so much to think about when putting together your outfits as a mom.  My husband always makes fun of the fact that I wear my spanks from my high school cheerleading uniform under my dresses.  I just feel more comfortable knowing that everything is covered up when it needs to be. 

Us moms are not only concerned about exposing ourselves, but we also need to make sure that our clothes help us feel better about our bodies.  I’m not complaining.  I didn’t struggle with a lot of weight gain during my pregnancy, but that doesn’t mean that I’m not insecure with parts of my body.  I know what areas need some work and I do my best to hide them with the clothes I wear.  Simple tricks like tucking in your shirts or wearing a flattering fit of jeans can do wonders for your mom-bod.
 One of my favorite places to find mom-friendly fashion is always PinkBlush.  I’m a style ambassador for them and I share their clothes all the time because I think that their styles are perfect for the everyday mom.  They are stylish, practical and all their clothes know the perfect way to hide your “mom body” imperfections.  This charcoal grey floral colorblock stripe sleeve top caught my eye when I saw it online and it did not disappoint me when I tried it on.  This top has the perfect length, so you can also style it with leggings if you like.  I wore it with a pair of distressed jeans that I love and a simple pair of sandals.  A t-shirt like this is perfect for my everyday mom activities.  
*This post is part of a collaboration with PinkBlush.  All opinions are 100% my own. 
I honestly think that having a baby has only made me feel more confident in the clothes I wear.  I know I’m not 21 anymore, but I personally think that I dress better now than I did in my 20’s.  I have so much fun finding new ways to wear my clothes and I hope that I can inspire all of you with my “mom-friendly fashion”.
In honor of Mother’s Day this weekend, me and some of my fellow mom bloggers have joined up to share our Mother’s day posts.  Feel free to click around the links below and find out what other moms are talking about this Mother’s Day week!
Justine @ Little Dove Blog // @littledove.justine
Jenise @ A Toddler & A Topknot // @atoddlerandatopknot
Sierra @ Beautifully Candid //@beautifully_candid
Bethany @ Waves & Lilacs //@wavesandlilacs
Mary Leigh @ Live Well Play Together //@livewellplaytogether
Whitney @ Work It Mommy // @thefamilysmith5
Shani @ Sunshine & Munchkins // @sunshineandmunchkins
Katie @ Thrifty Wife Happy Life // @thriftywifehappylife
Tamara @ Tamara Bratton Blog //@tamaraleebratton

The Gift of Me-Time for Mother’s Day

by Katie Haller

Ever since I became a mom, my life has been dedicated to taking care of my little boy.  I’m always thinking about him and what he might need next.  I have this never-ending list of things I need to do in my head to make sure he is well taken care of and our home is running smoothly.  No matter how hard I try, I still manage to forget something.  From the time I wake up, until the time I go to sleep, my mind is on my family.  


The truth is, I didn’t really think about the amount of time I would spend focusing all my energy on another human.  Don’t get me wrong, I honestly love taking care of my little guy.  I love being a mom.  I can’t imagine what my life would be like without him.  But I do miss the amount of time I used to have to myself.  It makes me understand and appreciate my own mom more.  There was a reason she would hide out in the bathroom away from us kids.  She just wanted a little alone time.

*This post is part of a collaboration with Smile Brilliant.  All opinions are 100% my own.

This year for Mother’s Day, I think all of us moms should give ourselves a little bit of me-time.  I did a poll last week on my Instastories and I wasn’t surprised by the results.  From what people told me, the majority of us mom don’t take the extra time on ourselves that we should.  When I became a mom, I made a promise to myself that I wasn’t going to lose myself in motherhood.  I wanted to still do the things that I enjoyed and still put myself together every day because that’s important to me.  It makes me feel good to put together a cute outfit, do my hair and wear makeup.  I still fall behind in a few things.  I don’t work out the way I would like to, I only get to the salon every 6 months and my nails might have nail polish on them, but they only look good maybe 2 days out of the week.

One thing that I’ve been trying to do more often is to take care of my smile.  Last summer I did a review on the professional at-home teeth whitening system, Smile Brilliant  (Check out my post HERE!).  I was really pleased with my results and it felt good to set aside a little bit of me-time.  (Check out my results below!)  Since then, I’ve been trying to keep up on whiting my teeth here and there.  I think it’s really important to just take a little bit of extra time on yourself when you can.  Teeth whitening is an easy way that you can do that.  I like to whiten my teeth while my little guy is in the bathtub.  He’s entertained with his bath toys and I can still be there if he needs me, but I also pay a little attention to myself.

I’m so excited, because Smile Brilliant wants to share one of their teeth whitening kits with one of my readers. They are giving away a $149 credit to cover the cost of your own professional at home teeth whitening system.  Go HERE to enter!  You can also use my coupon code thriftywifehappylife20 for $20 off!  You don’t have to be a mom to enjoy some me-time with some teeth whiting, so make sure you enter!! The winner will be informed by e-mail!

Follow

@thriftywifehappylife