I'm baaaaaack....

And with any luck, better than ever!!

Apologies for the inappropriately long absence, hopefully you all haven't completely given up on me in the mean time.

I started a new job that happily does not include being in isolation at a desk all day, with only the cyber world to entertain me!! Good for me, an added challenge for Sass Class. I started working as an assistant manager for a boutique called Monkee's in Davidson, right outside of Charlotte. I was always a big fan of the store as a shopper, as it was a stylish refuge in the small college town.

Starting the job has been a whirl wind, trying to learn everything from ringing people out, steaming (sooo LC from the Hills), all the different marketing campaigns, and the most fun... unpacking new clothes!! I swear it's like Christmas every day, making our UPS man Chris Santa Clause.

Confession: working in a boutique has made me second guess my online shopping habits. Yes, online shopping is quick and easy, but there's something about the actual experience of touching and trying on clothes that is irreplaceable. An added benefit of boutiques is that you are likely to stumble upon different items and new designers that are similar to ones you already enjoy. The weeding out process is already done for you!

I was thrilled find some adorable (and affordable!!) new designers coming into the boutique, some of my favorite pieces below:

A dress from one of my favorite new lines, GLAM. Their forte is bright blousy tops and dresses, perfect for summer and into the fall. The cut of this summer dress is totally reminiscent of Carrie Bradshaw's Halston Heritage dresses in Sex and the City 2. And that colorful ikat print? Sign me up.

A "tween" jacket - named not for the awkward age group, but for the knit material that is more like a sweatshirt than a heavy coat. Ideal for the mild Southern falls. The designer is called 525 America, and has great well-priced knits and separates!

Another affordable line that we carry is called Theme, and I died when this dress came in. The picture does not do it justice, so click for a larger view. It's a thin sweater material in navy (duh) with this gorgeous beaded collar - perfect for when you can't be bothered with jewelry!

Another dress by Theme that we carry, in an amazingly comfortable fabric. The draping and wrap is so flattering, and the heathered gray is a perfect new staple color for fall.

Now as much as I preach sales, deals, and savings, sometimes you just can't control what you fall for, am I right? And Milly's fall line is AH-MAZING. It's like she watches Gossip Girl religiously and decided to design a line for all us Blair Waldorf wannabes. Her dresses are classic, chic, and fit like a dream. So naturally, they also are $300-500 a pop.

But a girl can dream, right?

So the internal battle continues... buy fun new fall clothing now? or save up for one of these gorgeous dresses....