What better way to add a touch of leopard print to your Fall wardrobe than with these Christian Louboutin Leopard Print Ankle boots? I can think of a couple better ways, actually, that don't cost $1,185...


Here's one: Leopard print ankle boots from Newport-News (Spiegel's got 'em too). I'm sure Steve Madden or BCBG or Bakers will come out with an even better look for less later in the season, but for just $49 you can get your animal-print fix today.

I spotted these Tahari flyaway cardigans made of 100% cotton in purple, gray and black, still had the original price tag ($188), marked down to $39.99. A great layering piece for Fall.

Earlier this week I popped into TJ Maxx to check out their Fall sweaters, a must-have for New England's long, cold winters. While sifting through the racks I was pleased to find current styles by brands like Michael Michael Kors, Tahari, The Limited, Nine West, Design History, DKNY and more. Most were under $40 and were made with quality fabrics like cotton, wool, angora, even cashmere. When you consider the value of these items compared to the lightweight sweaters you find at many fast-fashion stores (lose their shape, aren't warm, don't wash well), it makes sense to put in the extra time to shop at an off-price retailers like TJ Maxx. OF COURSE I love my fast fashion, you know I'm not giving that up, but this season I plan on buying a lot of my clothing at TJ Maxx and Marshalls because cold weather clothing needs to be better quality than summer clothing.

Sifting through the racks at an off-price retailer can be a daunting task, so here are some tips to help you shop:

• Stick to one department at a time. It's nearly impossible to cover the entire store in one visit, so stick to one department—shoes, dresses, or handbags, for instance—which will help you narrow your focus and stay on track.
  
  
• Go in with a goal in mind. It's fun to browse, but it always helps to have a specific goal, for instance, "wrap sweater," "knee-high brown boots" or "trench coat." If you don't find what you're looking for, it's not the end of the world. Leave and try back later.
  
  
• Shop in the right foundational outfit. For example, if you'll be trying on tunics, dresses or skirt, wear leggings and flats to the store so you can easily slip things on and off and see how the items will work with what you already have. Looking for a bag to match a particular pair of shoes? Wear those shoes.
  
  
• Look beyond designer labels. If you're like me, you rapidly sift through those hangers and hone in on designer labels like a hawk. Stop! Consider items based on size, fit, and price. I need to remind myself this sometimes but it's better to buy a well-fitting stylish item by a no-name designer than something you don't really need, which costs more anyways, by a designer.

More photos after the jump...

This dolman sleeve sweater by Nine West was just $24.99 and so cozy!

Here's a Michael Michael Kors sweater I found marked down from $129.50 to just $39.99 that you could wear open or tied, as shown here. It was made from a luxe blend of angora, wool and something else, I forget...

This chunky knit sweater by Cambridge of London--made from a soft and warm blend of wool, acrylic and polyester--would look great with leggings and knee high boots. Makes you want to curl up next to the fire with a good book and cup of hot chocolate.