Why are khakis so hard to find?

I don't know how I went so long without having khakis in my wardrobe, but I finally found some I like after six months of searching. I think I like them anyway. I liked them better in the dressing room, but I think they'll grow on me.

The khakis I found at TJ Maxx for $7 (!!). They're cropped right above the ankle, so they'll transition nicely into the spring and summer. But for now, I'll wear them with long socks and my riding boots from Payless ($40).

The tank is one of my favorite dressy pieces -- I like the black on black details in different fabrics. It was a Forever 21 find for $7.

The blazer is an easy-to-wear cotton with ruffles on the hips that surprisingly aren't unflattering. It's Deb brand, which I usually stay away from because I think a lot of their clothes look like they're for someone much younger than me. Paired with the other pieces, though, I think it looks more mature and sophisticated. Plus, I found it at a thrift store for $5 -- why pass that up?

Target clearance can be CHIC

We had a bit of a heat wave the other day here in North Dakota -- it got all the way up to 27 degrees! I jumped at the opportunity to break out a skirt.

Please ignore the dirty mirror. It's disgusting. I know. I'm ashamed.

That purpley-blue, chiffon-type top is one of my favorite pieces in my closet. I love a good Peter Pan collar, and the fact that it's crocheted makes it even better. The pleating down the front of the shirt gives it some interest, and the back has buttons all the way down it. I found it on the clearance rack at Target last season for $7.

The skater skirt has a really interesting texture to it, and I feel like it's long enough that I can get away with wearing it to work (which I did that day). It was another Target clearance rack find -- $4.50!

And these booties! They're a bit beat up now because I've had them for years, but they're still my favorite shoes. I found them at Wet Seal probably four years ago, and they were on sale for something ridiculous like $4. They came in two other colors, but I was skeptical because I wasn't sure if I'd like the Western vibe they had, so I didn't buy the other two pairs, and I regret that choice every day.

On another note: The tripod I ordered is ready for pickup tomorrow! No more mirror shots!