Author Archive for Louise Lao
Frugal Fashion, Fabulous Finds: Thrift Shopping in the OC
When you think of Goodwill, you might think of shelves of used toasters, racks of obscure T-shirts, old stuffed animals, and maybe even the clothing you donated last week, as I have. Don’t let your first impression or the store’s notorious aroma deter you from seeking what could be your next favorite item of clothing. Recently, I found a black vintage jumpsuit, denim jacket, faux-fur stole, and several other pieces to use for fabric at the Goodwill store in Costa Mesa. I’ve learned that if you take the time to sift through the racks, you’re often lucky enough to discover a unique item.
Behind the Magic: Student Designers Speak Out
Suburban Outfitter: Last May, UC Irvine’s Fashion Interest Group held its inaugural fashion show featuring four student designers: Teresa Williams, Melanie Lee, Colleen Mohnkern and myself. This spring, we plan to debut our new collections at the Fashion Interest Group’s next show.
Save or Splurge? Fashionable Finds for Savvy Students
SUBURBAN OUTFITTER: If you’re anything like me — a shopaholic with a lack of funding — fashion can be fun, but sometimes overwhelming. If you sometimes find yourself debating whether or not to trade a week’s worth of dinner for a pair of heels you can’t stop thinking about, this week’s column is dedicated to you. I love to shop, but my meager college student budget determines what I can actually spend money on versus what I should buy for less. Here are my thoughts on what to splurge on, what to save on, and where to get it.
Swing Back Into Spring Styles With Soft Tones and Do-It-Yourself Fashions
SUBURBAN OUTFITTER: Back home in the Bay Area, I never thought about shopping for spring and summer clothing until March when, if I were lucky, the temperature would slowly climb to the cool mid-60s. Here in Irvine, however, it’s mid-January and a ridiculous 85 degrees. Even though I’m wearing denim cutoffs, I feel like I’m about to pass out as I trudge up a slight slope in Aldrich Park. What does this tell me (besides that I’m ludicrously out of shape)? It’s time to shop for the new season.
Less Trashin’, More Fashion on Social Network Chictopia.com
SUBURBAN OUTFITTER: Last night, I had a nightmare about Chictopia.com. I was clicking through page after page of girls in oversized white t-shirts, black leggings and black boots. Every single ChicBlog was exactly the same. My legs began to hurt as if the sight of so many bland outfits was physically painful and I suddenly woke up in actual pain. Lying in bed, I began to wonder if I go on Chictopia too much.
Nifty Gifts on a College Budget
This year, don’t resort to a last-minute gift card. Buy something unique while avoiding the dreaded mall crowds by shopping for presents online. These Web sites offer original and affordable gifts, from beautifully crafted baubles to downright wacky knickknacks.
From the Runway to Ring Mall
The sun is shining and the breeze is balmy—spring has definitely arrived. Some days, the heat is sweltering enough to drive a girl into the ubiquitous shorts and flip-flops uniform. What can you do to get out of a hot-weather fashion rut, especially on a college student’s budget?
