Author: Elana Pruitt

My Favorite Secret Shopping Spots Exposed

If I had the means to shop at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Kitson, and Bloomingdale’s for nearly all of my purchases, I’m not going to lie—I probably would. There are such amazing designer collections sold at these stores that I would be honored to wear some of their pieces. But these places are above my means.

I am a fashion writer who enjoys the finer things in life all for a fabulous deal! So where do I go for my shopping needs? My secret shopping spot that allows me to stretch my dollar and buy my classic as well as trendy winter coats for mere change is . . . the Goodwill! Please note that this store is not hidden from the public; it just takes someone with an open mind and a level head to be able to walk into the Goodwill and have some fun shopping.

The last time my boyfriend and I decided to stop by and check out what’s new, I purchased two Forever 21 jackets: a cotton black blazer and a mauve and cream tweed coat for $10 total. There was a 2 for $10 special, and I was all over it! I was amazed with the brands I could find just sitting there waiting for a home. These two jackets are now two of my faves. I even wore the black blazer on television when I appeared as a fashion consultant for the morning show, “Southern California Living”; and I wore my tweed jacket to work the other day, which was ultra-comfy and ultra-editor chic.

And it was that very day that Steve and I shopped at the Goodwill that I realized how underground this retail outlet is. I witnessed two grown women aggressively arguing over a blouse that cost less than five bucks. One woman had her kids in the car waiting, and the other had her daughter standing right next to her. Not only did it seem funny seeing two grown-ups do the whole “But it was mine!” and “No, I saw it first!” I just couldn’t shake the thought that they were probably fighting over a $2 shirt. That seemed, at the time, childish and uncalled for.

NOW, looking back to a month ago, I realize that these women weren’t crazy. Not at all. They were bargain shoppers who both know a great deal when they see it. And how dare someone else get their paws on what they see as theirs! I get it now. That $2 item may have only been, yes, just two bucks, but the quality may have been out of this world. I understand. I’m right with ya, ladies.

By Elana Pruitt

My Winter Wardrobe

When I was a child, I couldn’t wait until it was Chanukah. The taste of latkes and relaxing by the fireplace are memories I shall never forget.

As for gifts, my parents usually had at least some sort of clothing wrapped up for me. This was in addition to new journals, fun Hello Kitty pencils, and new multi-colored strings for my friendship bracelets. I loved the thought of ringing in the winter season with something new to wear. I never expected a new wardrobe for Chanukah – and I wouldn’t have received that anyway! (My mother is a firm believer in “it’s the little things that count.”) Still, I couldn’t help but squeal in the delight that I would be able to add to my wardrobe.

One of my favorite gifts was a pink puffy button-up coat with a turquoise attached scarf! It was so perfect. Valuing that jacket so much, I decided to take the scarf out and save it. I still have it after 20 years.

Sometimes, I would get new slippers, a new robe, sweaters, or comfy turtlenecks. I never realized how smart my mother was until I was an adult. She would buy us what we truly needed ? practical gifts. However, she would make it fun. I really needed that jacket, as the hail poured down from our Southern California sky. Slippers, but in a royal blue, pull-up boot style, were to keep my feet toasty throughout the winter nights.

As an adult, I now like to treat myself to my own Chanukah gifts. And I do so following my mother’s standards – take what you need and put your own twist to it. So what do I need this winter? Well, my shopping list entails a top three must-have check-off: short, black leather bomber jacket; a man’s navy blue blazer jacket (which I may just snatch from my boyfriend’s closet to save money); and a faux fur cream jacket. I have plenty of boots ? the over-the-knee boot is too dominatrix for me. I also already own various plaid pieces, a print which will continue to be a hot style for winter. So my list is minimal and practical, these three items that will add classic, couture-inspired style to my wardrobe.

Happy Chanukah and Merry Christmas! May your wardrobe be filled with pieces that are practical and exciting.