Yesterday I had one of those rare "I'm a great mom! I can do this!" days, and it included a little trip to Marshalls with two amazingly well-behaved boys. I wanted to scope out the fall fashion for you guys, and I was really pleased to find a ton of on-trend pieces mostly under $30 for clothes and under $60 for boots and bags. I only made it through the contemporary/juniors department on this trip, and that's where I found lots of cozy sweaters like geo print cardigans and loose weave pullovers in shades of olive, burgundy, navy and tan.

Yesterday I visited a T.J.Maxx store near me to see what was new for fall. Let's start with the all-important accessories, like bags and shoes, that can easily update your look for the season. I spotted lots of cognac brown bags as well as rich colors like burgundy, dark blue and a few emerald green. Brands like Michael Michael Kors, Steve Madden and Vince Camuto caught my eye on crossbody bags and genuine leather totes. The MK bags were expectedly classic while the others had a boho vibe (think fringe and braiding). BCBG makes some really nice-looking Chanel inspired bags that are perfect for going out and just $34.99 (you'll know it when you see it!)

On to the shoes: I'm really feeling the peep-toe bootie again. This season's options aren't as edgy as previous years, which makes them more wearable for everyday - and now's the time to start wearing them, when you can still bare your toes but cover the rest of your foot in these season-defying shoes. I also am loving the lace-up block heel sandals by Steve Madden (I recently saw someone style these with a simple t-shirt and drawstring shorts and thought it was genius). Then there are the perforated ankle booties by DV Dolce Vita for $69.99...can I really justify another pair of ankle boots?! Signs point to "yes". Ghillie flats for $29.99 are another great buy in a fall-ready taupe faux suede. And if you need not-so-basic black ankle boots or the perfect leopard pump, T.J.Maxx has those, too, from Sam Edelman and Donald Pliner.

Head to my Facebook page to see what I bought on this trip! Who's ready for fall fashion?

This week I cruised through Forever 21, where new fall arrivals like moody florals, richly hued accessories and feminine lace are making these last days of summer much easier to part with. Easy updates you can try for your wardrobe would include picking up a floral tunic or long sleeve blouse that you can wear now with white jeans and ankle boots and again with knee-high boots and chunky cardigans in the fall.

I bought two pairs of the Sunset Mid-Rise Skinny Jean (in black and white) and the fit was great for those us not in our twenties anymore. I had to go up 3 sizes but I have no problem doing that with juniors clothing - just go with what fits! These come in lots of cool colors for fall.

I also thought these mini crossbody bags look adorable especially for the price, as well as the faux leather bags in hunter green and burgundy. After the heat wave we've been experiencing, fall - and fall fashion - can't come soon enough! Keep reading to see more highlights from my trip, including a luxe looking lace skirt under $25 and must-have camo jacket...

I may be jumping the gun here in mid-August, but I'm ready to talk about what to buy at Payless for Fall - there's so much goodness! I got their back-to-school mailer and immediately headed to my store to pick up the 'Max' Bootie in Olive for $34.99 plus 20% off using the coupon from the mailer (sign up for the Payless mailing list to get your coupon). This boot will be a workhorse in my everyday wardrobe - it's cute, stylish, yet comfy enough for chasing after kids, running errands, you name it! It'll look good with dresses or jeans. I'm already contemplating going back for the brown. Runs TTS.

With just ONE DAY LEFT to shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, I headed back to Westfarms mall yesterday to see what was left and give the sale one last hurrah before prices go back up tomorrow, August 8. Anyone else feelin' the heat!?

I had already made a sizable purchase online (see what I bought here) but couldn't resist going back for more. I was somewhat surprised to find there was hardly anything left at my store! I know, I know, everyone warns you that stuff sells out - and they weren't kidding. If you waited until the last minute like me, the good news is that there's still plenty available online, and with free shipping and free returns, it's a no-brainer!

For a little real-life inspiration, here's what I tried on and picked up in round 2 of my shopping...er...saving spree: