Marjie's Shopping Diet: Introducing ... the Diet Challenge

Marjie's Shopping Diet

The Shopping Diet is my way of passing along words of advice to fellow self-proclaimed shopaholics so they can buy on a budget.
You don't have to make a fortune to buy today's latest trends and have a closet full of fun. Here I'll blog about tricks I've learned over the years that allow me to shop when I want, buy (mostly) what I want, keep my closet happy and feel good about myself, all while staying within my budget.
To me, bargain hunting is a thrilling challenge. It takes skill, drive and passion to know what you're looking for, find it, and get it for less than everyone else. I take pride in the fact that although I don't usually spend more than $20 or $30 on any one item, I'm always getting compliments on my clothes and accessories. Some of my most successful shopping experiences have resulted in a $5 pair of black patent flats that I've worn almost every day for the past two years, and a $4 black scarf that goes with anything.
I don't just tell people to buy things on sale, or only buy something when it's on sale. Part of The Shopping Diet is doing research so you get the best possible deal on something you really want/need. It's about weighing your options and making good choices.
For me fashion is all about how YOU want to look and feel. Wear what you want and you'll always look good.

Monday, April 5, 2010

Introducing ... the Diet Challenge

I'm happy to introduce a new element to my blog: The Diet Challenge.
What IS the Diet Challenge? Ok, you've pulled my leg. I'll explain.

Because one of the main focuses of my blog is providing options to people on a budget, without having them compromise their fashion integrity and obsessions, the Diet Challenge will provide readers options when it comes to what they are looking for.

How it works:
A reader will email me asking where to find something specific: White flats for under $15, a red shirtdress for under $20, tan or nude sandals with a cork wedge for under $15, a clutch to wear to a wedding that matches a seafoam green dress. Something specific - the more descriptive the better! Because The Shopping Diet focuses on finding what you love for less, the reader must provide a price limit in order to narrow options and create realistic choices.

After I receive a reader inquiry, I will post as many items that fall into that specific price range I can find. I will take what the reader is looking for and find as many options as I can. I am essentially not only doing the research for the readers, but providing them with the perspective that when it comes to shopping on a diet, you CAN find cute, affordable items; you just have to know how to search. And because searching for the perfect headband to match that perfect scarf that matches those shoes for under $15 takes time, I will do it for you!

Then, the reader may feel comfortable searching for their own items next time per The Shopping Diet, or they may email me again with the next inquiry.

When inquiring, please provide:
1. Your name
2. What item you're looking for
3. Color and size, if applicable
4. Price range
5. How time-sensitive your request is (if you want a raincoat for this summer versus black strappy heels for this weekend.)
6. Any limitations (no spandex, no polka dots, no empire waists, etc.)

If you know what you're looking for, I can help you find it. Through the process I can even guide you in the direction of The Shopping Diet.

I am accepting challenges now. In the subject line of your email please write "challenge."

I will receive emails at:
marjorie.stromberg@yahoo.com
marjorie.stromberg@gmail.com

Once you send your challenge, give me a few days to gather information and then I will post the results in a blog post.

Thanks in advance, I can't wait to help!

Marjie's Shopping Diet