Recessionista: Revisiting Old Habits

Wow. Are we screwed economically or what? I don't know about you, but I am freaking out. I'm not going to pretend like I understand why or how Lehman Brothers collapsed, AIG is in the toilet, and Merrill Lynch is downgrading to "bank" status. What I do know is my already fragile financial life is doing it's own circle down the drain. But, it's fall and it's time to make wardrobe improvements. What's a budget-conscience freaked out girl to do when she feels like she can't shop, yet the air is cooling down and she wants to look cute? Go to Old Navy! Maybe you're like me and needed a break from this discount Gap because 1. you don't want to look like everyone else, 2. you feel you've outgrown it, and 3. now that you're older and making more money you should shop at grown up places. Well, I spent a little time at ON recently after a long hiatus, and was pleasantly surprised by the selection, the diversity of styles, and the accessories. ON sells shoes now! And, they're, like, totally cute! And, the jewelry is fun, bright, and adorable! I dived into the many dresses and skirts they have for fall and found many things I liked that were also flattering. The best part came when I reluctantly picked up a pair of jeans and added them to my dressing room stash. My expectations were low; I have trouble finding jeans that fit in more expensive stores, so I was sure ON could not possibly have jeans I could wear. Imagine my utter joy when I tried on what they call their "Sweetheart Fit" and they wrapped around my curves to perfection. The best part -- they cost $29.50. $29.50 for jeans! That fit! And look good! And don't look cheap! I'll be going back to get them in every wash.
So, ladies, the lesson here is revisit those places you've written off as they might surprise you. The second lesson -- that perfect thing you're looking for (jeans, for example) might be where you least expect them.