the 411 on cyber mon/black fri

Sale is probably my favorite word in the English dictionary. However, sometimes these "sales" aren't as great as you first think... & here's my guide to actually getting a kick ass deal during the RIGHT sales this upcoming weekend! Cyber Monday is only a week away!!

Before the sale-

• Research current prices. Sometimes stores jack up the original price right before their sale so that they can make it seem like it's a better deal. Ex. A store is offering 40% off during a cyber monday sale. You see a dress earlier in the month online there that is $50. During the cyber monday sale you notice that the original list price of the dress is $70. That's because 40% off of  $50 means the dress would cost $30 versus $42 if the "original" list price is $42. Regardless you're getting it less for what it originally cost... but if it was originally $50 earlier in the month you're truly only getting about 15% off. 
• Research sales before the stores have them. Refer to my previous blog about how to know what stores have overlapping items and different price points! Stores will have similar sales to remain competitive. 
• Mentally prepare yourself.. no seriously you'll need to! Part of the insanity of Black Friday is the timing. You're up the entire day before eating, socializing, partying and then all of a sudden you're up all night shopping. You're more inclined to make last minute purchases and buy things you don't need all because it's on "sale"
• Go through newspaper ads!! This can actually be really fun. My mom & I always do it together and we always have a great time talking about what's on sale and what we should get!
• Make a LIST and stick to it! Write down things that you actually need BEFORE the sales. That way if you stick with your list you won't go over budget or end up with things you don't need.
• Make a game plan. Know what stores open when and when you're going where when you're shopping for Black Friday. 
• For cyber monday prioritize your stores. Have 10 tabs up at 11:59 and refresh them at midnight. Look to see what store has items on sale that you like the most and shop there first. Work backwards from that!! Cyber monday is my favorite because I can multitask and be shopping at multiple stores at once! Opening up a billion tabs is my life just saying.
• For black friday make sure you form a group! No one should have to face Black Friday by themselves.. & even if you have never been at least try it! You have to at least experience it once!
• Don't forget that Thanksgiving is actually not about sales and clothes and getting deals before Christmas. Stay in the present on Thanksgiving and enjoy the time with your family!

During the sale-

• Compare original prices to sale price "original prices"
• Do the math. Ex. You see "40% off everything!!" You automatically do the math for 50% off and add back a few dollars.. 40% off is close to 50% off right? WRONG. You'll get sticker shock when you get to the register or see your online shopping cart. Do the math when you see the item and keep a running total on your phone calculator.
• Don't fall victim to the "well it's on sale so I should get it." Definitely not a good state of mind! I know it's hard, but if you don't absolutely love something you don't need it- even if it's $5 on sale. Go to Starbucks and get a coffee if it's $5 you're missing out on spending! This holds true especially with clothes. This happened to me a lot during high school- I'd buy something because it was on sale. It would fit me "ok" or fit my style '"ok" and it would sit in my closet until I got sick of seeing it and donated it. With that outlook eventually you'll end up with a TON of clothes that you never wear and barely like. A splurge on one thing that you absolutely love is better than spending the same amount of 10 things that you barely like.

After the sale-

• Address the situation and read return policies.
• Return items you don't want promptly.
• If you have to pay to ship something back don't complain about it. Just do it because if you don't send it back it'll just waste space in your closet/storage room etc.
• Decide what to do differently for next year. Black friday and cyber monday change SO much every year. Note the changes and decide how you could make next year go even better!

People that get the most out of their black friday and cyber monday experiences plan ahead. They research and know what sales are the best and what sales aren't that great. By doing this you'll save yourself time, energy, AND money.. aka 3 of the most valuable things ever. Happy shopping & I hope you find some GREAT deals!!

Xo,

Dev

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Baublebar review!

If you know me you know that jewelry is my number 1 weakness. But, I see jewelry as an accessory and as an accessory $150 for a necklace is absolutely absurd. The only thing more absurd than a $150 necklace is a $150 bikini. 

One day I stumbled upon Baublebar & have been HOOKED ever since. Their items are reasonably priced already but they have amazing sales.. plus you get 15% off your first purchase when you sign up to get their emails.. which contain more sales & the buried bauble! A buried bauble is an extremely discounted piece, but it only stays discounted for a very limited time. Shipping is FREE & is priority 2 day & returns are also free. Did I mention I'm obsessed??

Here's my order I recently got. I scored both a necklace and earrings for just $24 during their Halloween sale that I featured in one of my earlier blogposts (part 4)! The quality of these items is truly impeccable. I can't believe it sometimes! I feel like I'm getting a great deal every time I open my package from Baublebar!!

I am obsessed with tassels and accents of orange. I honestly would wear this necklace in my sleep I love it so much. The earrings are more of an antique gold than true gold but I still love them regardless. They're both show-stopping pieces and the fact that I got them both for $24 only makes them that much better!!

I promise you that Baublebar is the BEST place to find statement jewelry at affordable prices. Even though I have my own jewelry label I still indulge in other pieces of jewelry and Baublebar definitely satisfies that void. Can't express how much I love them! Give them a shot I promise you won't regret it. In fact I know that you'll become hooked.

PS their packaging is also adorable with black and pink details and little "yay!" stickers. It's like they literally read my mind about the perfect jewelry company and implemented it to make me broke but incredibly stylish. No regrets, just jewelry. <3 Baublebar is life!

Best wishes

Xo

Dev

PS THE WINTER LINE FOR DEVIN ASHTON DESIGNS IS LAUNCHING NOVEMBER 14! 

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"where'd you even find that?"

So, I often get texts saying "You always know where to get things and what stores have what so where do I get *insert type of clothing* from?" I have to admit, I love being asked this! Over the years I've engrained into my head what type of clothing stores will have and what overlap occurs. I also keep in mine the different price points at each.

That being said I have a couple secrets.. which I'm sharing with you all today!!

1. Follow a few boutiques on Instagram (if that's your thing)! What happens is boutiques go through each other followers and before you know it a couple other boutiques will follow YOU. Check out their instagrams and compare the price points and items at each. Usually smaller boutiques have better prices because they don't have as high of employee/operating costs. I mean usually the difference is around $5.... so not huge. BUT if you buy 5 shirts with a $5 difference between 2 boutiques that's $25 you're saving.. that's 2 trips to Panera. Or 5 Starbucks excursions when you're up to 2 am writing that comm paper. If you need some good stores to follow check out who I'm following on my personal instagram @devin_ostttttermann I swear I'm following more boutiques than people.... Some good ones to start with are @HazelAndOlive, @ShopKonfetti, @RedDressBoutique,  @MaterialGirlsMS, @ShopRiffRaff, @ShopDaintyHooligan, & @ShopHopes! These are some big name, well known, & extremely popular stores!
2. Know that boutiques usually have dupe products of expensive brands. EX. You see those Valentino rockstud heels at a steep $995 on Pinterest, you buy their cheaper twin for $40 at Hazel and Olive!! Seriously though they have them RIGHT now! (got some for semi formal this friday!!)
3. Polyvore. It's a great way to search for specifics. So for example I am currently looking for a pair of gold pants... I have no idea why I just really want some printed preppy gold pants. So, I went on Polyvore and typed in gold pants & found a pair (from my search at Polyvore) that were at J.Crew!! So, it takes the extra step out between wanting something and getting it. Which is pretty awesome considering that step takes the longest.
4. Don't forget about eBay!! Searching on ebay will also help you get a general idea of the costs and brands associated with that product. It's a great tool to use if you're stumped on what brands carry the product in general or how much it'll cost you to get it. 
5. Google sucks for searching for clothes. They'll lead you to the stores that have paid the most for advertising. Usually it takes you to some outdated page where the item you want used to be in stock there. It's annoying and frustrating- don't do it. Unless it's brand specific then knock yourself out!
6. Instead of just pinning the pin, look where it came from. Pinterest has links to websites in captions and sometimes stores themselves pin the images. It'll get you used to what the brand carries & if you like them enough- follow them duhhhhhh!
7. Patience. You'll get there & your repertoire will widen promise! It's taken me a lonnnng time to recognize brands like I do. Just stay alert and if all else fails ask me! I'm always happy to help with anything fashion related. 

Happy shopping!

Xo,

Dev

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part 11: 4 stores that will make you anything but basic

We all know the "basic" white girl. I love my leggings and Starbucks and I refuse to give them up anytime soon. However, sometimes you don't want to be a clothes minion of everyone else & when you decide you don't you'll need stores that help you break free of the basic white girl name. These 4 will definitely get ya going!

1. Nasty Gal. Love this store for when I really want to stand out in the crowd. They remind me of edgy prep style. They have preppy pieces with lace and flattering cuts but push the limits at the same time. They can be pricey but they have a lot of sales/price point options based on what you're looking for but they're great quality. They have a decent selection always on sale as well, granted it's off season, but it's an awesome opportunity to stock up on statement pieces. I love how much fun they have picking out their pieces- lots of cutouts, metallics, and neon. Their dresses are my favorite so I included my faves!

My first must have from Nasty Gal is this metallic fit & flare dress. SO perfect for New Years or any holiday party. /It's conservative but show-stopping, what more could you ask for? Priced at $68. Definitely my favorite out of the 3- really considering investing in it for myself/the December lookbook with my winter line.

Second great holiday dress must have is this beauty priced at $98. 

Last must have is this lace gem! I love the keyhole detail & feminine lace. The navy color makes it transition easily form fall to winter. Priced at $88.

2. Topshop- This store is great for finding quality items. Their price reflect the quality of their clothing. Remember- you get what you pay for. Topshop is definitely worth the occasional splurge & boasts everything from feminine lace to leather and plaid combos. They have an inspire me section on the site devoted to giving you outfit ideas as well as a personal shopping service. Yeah, a personal shopping service.

My must have from Topshop is floral cigarette trousers. These could really transform your winter wardrobe! Who said you can't wear floral print in winter? The cream background and wintry print colors makes this pants more than acceptable for winter. They're currently on the site for $70.

My second must have are these awesome sequin shorts. These shorts are perfect for new years eve with a cute blouse, opaque black tights, and heels/booties. You could easily wear them all 4 seasons! They're priced at $68.

My final must have is this awesome gemstone phone case. The details on this little beaut are so impressive & it doesn't break the bank at $32! Definitely getting this babe.

3. Zara- Definitely the most price effective out of the 3. Zara has a more limited collection than the other stores I've featured today but they're still a great option! A lot of style bloggers love Zara because they have great simple staple pieces that can be worn a ton.

My first must have is this extremely popular blanket scarf. It's huge. It's pretty. It's pretty hugely warm. $40 & it's alllllll yours. 

Second must have is this sequined sweater. Normally I HATE sequins on tops when it isn't fully covered in sequins but this little number jus tight convert me. At $60 it's both a staple and statement piece. 

Last must have is this hot red jumpsuit. If you know anything about me you know I'm obsessed with jumpsuits. I own 3 & I am dying to get more. They are the epitome of comfy chic. This $99 beauty is well worth it. 

4. River Island- This site is such a great option for pushing the limits of the statement section of your wardrobe. Their pieces are unique & will surprise you that you are obsessed with them. They have the kind of clothes that if you don't buy them you think about it all night. I love their use of gold accents to make their clothing chic and thought out. They're having a huge sale right now too!

My first must have is this awesome two tone vest. I'm obsessed with vests & this one is absolutely gorgeous! Priced at $90 this vest still falls in the price category of American brands like J.Crew and North Face vests. Did I mention River Island is based in England?? Aka European style aka eurochic.

Second must have is this faux fur pleather jacket. Love this beauty! Not only is it going to be exceptionally warm but you get to be warm in style. That is so rare it's laughable. So s/o to River Island for saving the day! Priced at $130 this jacket is comparable to prices of Patagonia or North Face.

My last must have is this black zipper sweater. The zipper detail is so cute & simple. It transforms what could be a plan black sweater into a stylish staple. Priced at $56. It also comes in burgundy & gray.. I'm obsessed with the color burgundy just saying. 

Ok so this isn't a must have but it is gorgeous and I just love to look at it. Faux fur is currently trending & this bag is the epitome of how to do faux fur right. I'm slightly obsessed.

Just saying- all of their clothing and bags and everything are gorgeous. Just be mindful that european sizing is really different than ours so make BFF's with the size conversion charts!

I hope you enjoyed these great sites. I know that some things might seem a bit pricey but just remember you get what you pay for! & it's so true that when you look good you feel good. Best of luck on being a devoted shopaholic & breaking free from the basic white girl epidemic.

XO

Dev

PS THE WINTER LINE FOR DEVIN ASHTON DESIGNS IS LAUNCHING NOVEMBER 14! 

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part 9: things your boy toy will never tell you

Oh, the male species. The "kind" that makes us sometimes want to be asexual mushrooms. I have decided to enlighten you on the male mind & what I've learned in my not so stellar track history with the male species we all love to hate.

1. They suck at details. You'll never get the full story. Not because they mean to leave half of it out- they just aren't as detailed oriented as we are. It's a fact of life. Just ask them a ton of questions & pick up that dang phone... boys suck at details but add texting into the mix and you're asking for a mess.
2. They suck even more at making plans. Tell them where to be & when. They actually like that believe it or not. The whole "you decide no you decide" phase was never cute and never will be.
3. They're never thinking as deeply into the situation as you are. You think: He isn't talking to me because he saw my slightly bitchy comment on his ex girlfriends picture. He thinks: Wow her comment was....wait what did you say the score of the game was again bro?
4. When they say "What/why?" they actually mean it. Ok so girls are confusing.. we throw a lot at boys so can you blame them for tuning us out sometimes... I mean really sometimes I kinda annoy myself sooooooo.
5. They like being complimented too. I feel like we often get wrapped up in boys telling us we're pretty or that they like our dress when in reality boys love getting complimented just as much. If you love his shirt or the way he looks in a beanie tell him. It'll make his day even if he never admits it. 
6. They don't care about your gossip. At all. Save it for your BFF. Don't put yourself on the fast track to break up central station by constantly talking about that girl you used to like until she cheated with your boyfriends ex best friend and now it's just extremely awkward in Econ 1010. Seriously.. he doesn't care.
7. He likes romantic things. Think simple & to the point. No guy wants a scavenger hunt to find some stupid present hidden at the end... a nice dinner date on his birthday (with you paying complete with a cute gift) is really all you need. & they like candles. They actually do so don't let them convince you otherwise. 
8. Boys don't understand girl clothes. Josh is so confused by my palazzo wide leg pants, wearing high socks over my leggings with my nikes, & pantsuits. But honestly 20 years from now we're gonna look back and regret some of those choices too.. hate to break it to ya.
9. They have the attention span of a goldfish. Be concise in your stories and in what you're asking them to do.. just do yourself a favor for your energy's sake & his sanity.
10. Your relationship is a relationship- so stop momming him. He has a mom & you don't need to be one. Probably the easiest way to kill a relationship to be honest.

So there's that. Hope this was slightly enlightening. Boys truly are the best definition of something that we love to hate. Don't ever forget what you're worth- a guy that wants you for you will chase after you, I promise. It's still a thing. 

Best wishes

xo 

Dev

PS THE WINTER LINE FOR DEVIN ASHTON DESIGNS IS LAUNCHING NOVEMBER 14! 

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