Shopping for 9 to 5 Oomph

Perusing the racks, I’m finding all sorts of things I want. A Custo Barcelona tee for $20? Yes! A Betsey Johnson dress for $75? Absolutely—not! I refocus myself and move on to the suits. And there I find a Nanette Lepore suit in my size for an even $100. It’s fitted and flattering. Black with pale lavender pinstripes, it has lavender piping on the waist of the skirt and around the collar on the jacket. It fits perfectly and I’m experiencing that unique rush of excitement that comes from getting a great deal on something. This suit, were it new, would go for $500 easily.

After adding it to my collection, I leave the store with my bags and ponder my next move. I’m certainly a bit tuckered out from my marathon shopping day, but I still have $20.75 left to spend—I head over to the Salvation Army.

The racks are a bit overwhelming, but I start digging. Not two minutes into my search comes the announcement that the store will be closing in fifteen minutes. The dig gets dirty! I rummage through the skirts—too casual, too old-ladyish, too short, too small. I move on to the sweaters. With a mere five minutes to spare, I find a luxurious turtleneck sweater in midnight blue and it fits perfectly. Just to be safe, I check the fabric content and find it’s a mohair/silk blend. Nice. And the label says Lord & Taylor, so I know it’s a quality piece for a very refreshing price ($12). While waiting to pay, I spot a lovely faux pearl choker priced at a mere $5. It’s mine.

I did it! With only $3.75 remaining, I now have several pieces that will liven up my work wardrobe immensely. I flag a taxi and take my purchases home, where I will soon sleep the sleep of the satisfied, dreaming about executive elegance.