I stopped at Walmart the other day to pick up some extremely unglamorous Draino for a clogged sink (which we now believe is a frozen pipe...it's not fun) and took a moment to scope out the spring fashions (or lack thereof). I've worked with Walmart's fashion PR before (more on that here) so I know they have good stuff, but the stores in my area never seem to get any of it. What I did like were some cute cut-off shorts with crochet detailing, high-waist shorts in white, mint and coral, the cap sleeve dress (above) that would be nice for Easter, some striped espadrille flats, striped canvas totes ($9.97, perfect for the beach) and super cheap statement earrings (they look cheap up close but could fool anyone at a dimly lit bar or restaurant). And I left with the most adorable pair of blue and lime green rainboots ($12.46, sold out online) for my little guy - I've bought a great pair of waterproof sandals for my son last summer, so I'm hoping these hold up just as well. In other news, Walmart is making headlines for raising wages, a move that already has T.J.Maxx/Marshalls following suit.

What do shoes and pillows have in common? Probably nothing, aside from the fact that both items always fit and can easily update your look for spring without a major investment. I stopped at a new-to-me Target in a neighboring town this week and finally saw the Chanel-inspired cap toe espadrille flats that everyone is buzzing about, as well as some lace slip-on sneakers, and the studded Sam & Libby "Ashland" sandals from last season. Then I cruised through home decor and fell in love with like, all the throw pillows, from the classic Greek key motif to a playful "Amour" pillow. So much good stuff. Browse my photos for more items worth looking for on your next trip to Target!

My Target store is getting fancy: For the first time (that I can remember), the store is showing off their new spring fashions on actual mannequins! Each of Target's main, in-house brands has their own display (shown above from top left): Merona, Mossimo Supply Co., Mossimo, and Xhilaration. There's also a designated denim shop against the back wall of my store and a "Work Shop" that showcases office-appropriate attire. Mind you, I saw these displays months ago at a store in Chicago, but this mini-makeover has just reached my area. I think it makes it much easier to see trend highlights for the season (jumpsuits, culottes, overalls, oh my!) and visually organizes the space. It's a step in the right direction. Now if only they could organize their website better, Target.com...

Have you seen these upgrades at your Target store? Do you like what you see?

I took a trip to Kohl's over the weekend to check out the President's Day sales (sorry for posting this after the fact) but these gold-star clearance finds aren't going anywhere fast, if my store was any indication. Tis the season for rack after tightly-packed rack of clearance clothing. I could barely squeeze through the aisles to scope out the goods, and snap photos of these pieces-with-potential. Some highlights include a French phrase applique sweater by ELLE (pair it with a leather circle skirt, black tights and ankle boots for a cute going out look), some fun message tees (perfect with skinny jeans, a blazer and heels), these cozy leopard cardigans as well as these shaggy leopard cardigans (either would look great with black leggings or jeans, flat boots and a beanie) and this cool drop shoulder sweater. In the non-clearance section, I really liked this LC Lauren Conrad striped longsleeve tee for spring and these edgy Simply Vera Vera Wang ankle booties. I left empty handed because sometimes digging through clearance racks just gets frustrating and you realize you don't really need another embellished sweater. But don't let that stop you!

During a recent trip to Target I was elated to spot some gorgeous front to back earrings that look just like the Diors we've been seeing everywhere, available for $7.99 in classic pearl, mint/silver or pink/silver. Sadly I paid way more for my Baublebar pair but if you're still in the market for this style, get thee to Target! Other highlights in the accessories department include some fashionable backpacks (I like the faux leather), Kate-Spade-esque bow bags and a Merona red/black reversible tote that looks inspired by Mansur Gavriel (these are everywhere, Old Navy has one too!) It's available in tons of colors online for just $36.99 - a great work bag, school bag or mom-on-the-go bag!