Now I still think of it as a foundation because let’s face it – when your underwear doesn’t fit properly nothing else will go well. Riding up, straps slipping, this is not a way to go through life. Fitted but not binding, minimal pantie lines, comfortable but still on the job. Who knew that Target would be the answer to my dreams. Bras – basics for under t shirts, sports for when you’re bouncing around , fancy for nights when you want them to show, and everything in between – are their business. We all knew that Target was now designer central with fantastic clothes, shoes, and accessories however now we know that this is place to feel like you are truly supported. Let’s hear it for underpants – bikinis, hipsters, thongs (I still don’t get those but each to their own), and granny panties (sometimes you just want a wall of cotton between you and the world).

This is an area where the right size and fit matter – don’t ruin your day by having to tug and reach for areas better left alone. Figure out your favorite styles by going to the store and if they don’t always have your size – sit back on the internet and order without the distraction of having to plow through aisles and aisles. If you are internet shopping always check for a coupon before shopping.

Have fun and look forward showing off your assets.

A new chain has been quietly coming to town. H & M, originally from Sweden, has stores all over Los Angeles including the Beverly Center, Century City, Third Street Promenade, and the Americana in Glendale. They have taken the concept of inexpensive fashion and moved it into the stratosphere with choices for women, men, teens, and kids.  This is the store for those who need to be dressed at the office and like to be fashion forward.  When they say to dress for your next position, start here.

While most of the selections are trendy, keep an eye out for things with good lines and colors that suit your palette. The prices are good and the sales are very, very good.  They have pieces in organic cotton so you can be green and in style.  This is fun for resort and summer shopping - fun times at the beach when when you want more color and t-shirts for those weekend outings.

Now I know what some of you are thinking. This is super for the young and the slim, what about the middle aged and the curvy.  For those not wiggling into skinny jeans, there are fantastic tunic tops and cropped pants.  Or just come here for the accessories. If you want that cute scarf to make an old outfit perk up, if you would like a handbag with a pop of color, and if you occasionally want a trendy item that only lasts one season.    With a keen eye you can look in style and not break the bank.

Click on H & M and find the store nearest you. And sign up for their newsletter to get coupons and advance word on sales.

Now their loyalty program is tied into getting a GapCard and I only endorse the idea if you are going to pay it off every month.  They give you 20% off your first purchase and subsequent offers including free shipping off the website.  Please check with the website since offers are usually time limited.  You can also try the outlets for further reductions.

Now what did I find on sale at The Gap. Two lovely knit tops suitable for work that were half off and reduced to $24.99.  A great shirred T-shirt that concealed instead of revealing for $29. You can always wait for the next sale.  This was at the Marina Marketplace store, 13455 Maxella Ave in Marina del Rey, CA. Jessie helped me in the dressing room, giving expert advice on sizes and styles and Mark helped me at the counter telling me about all the deals – present and future. 

After years of not being in the shopping mode, I am rediscovering that looking good is part of feeling good.

Let’s start with Shop It To Me.  Instead of being overwhelmed by too much choice, they allow you to customize your shopping experience. Alerts arrive when those brands have sales items in your size.  If you are brand loyal, this site will work very nicely.

Now I scoffed at the Home Shopping Network until a friend started showing up in amazing clothes and said they were from HSN. Even Badgley Mischka of red carpet fame has a line with glamour items for parties and beyond.  Look  around for bargains in the clearance section and remember returning an item means paying for shipping.

Amazon.com is not the first name for clothing however there are a significant number of brands from AK Anne Klein to Zen Trend.  And many qualify for free shipping. This also a great way to send gifts out of town and even in town.

Check out your favorite brand online and see what they offer on discounts, free shipping and returns, and online only specials. This is a whole new world for me however many divas swear by the experience. Let me know what sites work for you. And remember be careful out there, the most expensive item you own is one you never wear.