I recently lost a lot of weight after being obese all my life. I don't have tons of money and I need to buy a lot of clothes. Can you write up a simple buying at the end of the season article? Like, what is possible to buy when, what I should grab ASAP and what are the best times of the year to grab up some sales when buying a lot? Also, can you suggest what somebody like me should buy first when dealing with a tight budget and practically empty closet? What are those must haves? I am 26 years old. —Veronika
First I just want to congratulate you on achieving your weight loss goals! I'm honored you'd ask me for advice, so here goes. Shopping used to be seasonal and big sales only came around a few times each year. But nowadays, fast fashion has completely changed the retail landscape. You can get good deals pretty much year round. It's still smart to shop for fall and winter apparel during after-Christmas sales and it's still smart to shop for spring/summer fashions during summer blowout sales but don't feel pressured to buy, buy, buy during these times. I'd recommend building your wardrobe slowly and steadily over the course of the year, buying pieces you love rather than buying what's on sale. You mentioned "must haves" and that's a great place to start. 
Your wardrobe will depend on your job and lifestyle but some essential items include: A boyfriend blazer, a perfect pair of dark denim jeans (bootcut or skinny based on your preference), a neutral colored sheath dress; a trench coat; leather riding boots; black pencil skirt; perfect tees in white, gray and black; black leather ballet flats; nude pumps and a structured handbag. I kinda love this Lucky mag video that shows you how to get 90 outfits with $500 - they show how a few key staples can be mixed and matched in an almost endless way.
I'll conclude by saying focus on what brings you joy as you adjust to your new shape. Finding fashion that fits and makes us feel beautiful is a journey we are all on!
What advice would you share with Veronika? Let her know in the comments!
I have been invited to a black tie wedding and have absolutely no idea what to wear. I have never been to a black tie event before, especially a wedding, so I'm stumped. I have a little black cocktail dress that I wore once before to a movie premier and was leaning towards wearing that dress. I think I should also add that the couple are religious, so I can't wear anything too revealing. The dress I wore to the premier is pictured [at right]. I added a beautiful feathered belt to the dress, which came together very nicely. Love to hear your thoughts. —Stacy-Ann M.
While I love the cocktail dress you've shared, you'll probably want to wear a floor-length dress if the invite says "black tie." If it says "black tie optional," then you can probably get away with a shorter cocktail dress. As a general rule, it's best to err on the side of being over rather than under-dressed. Besides, opportunities to get this glammed up don't come around that often so seize the chance to go floor-length and fabulous!