• Home
  • About
  • Categories
    • Wardrobe Capsules
    • What I Wore
    • How To Wear It
    • Casual Work Wear
    • Mom Style
    • Travel
    • Holidays
    • Trends To Try
    • Maternity Style
    • Thrifty Tips
    • Shopping
    • Beauty
  • Shop my outfits
  • Privacy Policy
    • Contact
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

Thrifty Wife Happy Life

Helping women love what they wear on a budget

Summer Swing Dress

June 8, 2018 by Katie Haller

June is a long month for me.  Unlike most teachers, I have to work all summer long.  I’m used to it though.  I’ve been working in early childhood for 9 years now and I’ve never had a job with summers off.  It’s okay though because I have a lot of time off in July and I’m just counting down the days until then.


*This post contains affiliate links, which means by clicking and/or making a purchase through a link, I will make a commission for this blog.  Thank you for your support!
During the summer, I love wearing dresses to work.  They don’t take a lot of effort to style and they are so comfortable, especially when it gets really hot.  This striped swing dress below is from ThredUP and it has quickly become one of my favorite everyday dresses.  It’s perfect for work because it’s casual and I can wear it with my converse or a pair of flats.  It also has short sleeves, which is nice, because I don’t need to layer it with a sweater or jacket for work, like some of my other dresses.  I also love wearing it on the weekends with some sandals or wedges.  Below, I wore it with my slide wedge sandals… also from ThredUP.  The tote purse is from Savers.  I get so many compliments on this purse and people are always surprised when I tell them it was $4 at Savers.  To be honest, it’s just a good basic tote, but can you ever go wrong with something so simple like that? 

Shop Similar Styles

Filed in: Affordable Fashion, outfits, ThredUp • by Katie Haller • Leave a Comment

Simple Summer Sundress

May 28, 2018 by Katie Haller

Since Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, I guess you can say that summer is here.  That means I’m trying to buy clothes that can get me through the heat of a desert summer.  One style for me that always gets me through the summer is a simple sundress.  My wardrobe is filled with simple casual dresses. 

This dress that I’m sharing today is from ThredUP, of course!  It’s an H&M dress that was only $7.99.  The dress was brand new with the tags on it still!  I love the pattern on this dress.  I’m trying to force myself to try out different patterns, besides stripes when I have the chance.  A dress like this is easy to style.  All you need to do is throw on some jewelry and some sandals and you are ready to go!  I wore my new Madden Girl sandals that I found at Burlington Coat Factory for only $9.99!  They are my everyday go-to sandals for this summer. 

Shop Similar Styles

Filed in: Affordable Fashion, outfits, ThredUp, Thrifty Looks • by Katie Haller • Leave a Comment

Simple and Classic Outfit- White Blouse and Jeans

May 21, 2018 by Katie Haller

Lately, I’ve been working on stocking my closet with a lot of basic wardrobe pieces.  I would say that I am pretty well stocked up, but there is always room for more.  This outfit above is the perfect example of how I used 4 simple wardrobe pieces to build a fun and stylish look. Read on to learn more about each piece. 

*This post contains affiliate links, which means by clicking on and/or making a purchase through a link, I will make a small commission for this blog.  Thank you for your support!
White Blouse Thrifted from ThredUP (Target) || Similar options HERE, HERE and HERE
I didn’t know how much I was in need of a white blouse until I found this one.  It’s so simple, but it goes with everything.  I used to hate wearing white shirts because I was always worried that my bra would show through, but I recently bought some bralettes at TJMaxx (similar HERE) and they have been a real game-changer for me.  I can finally wear white tops without worrying about my bra showing through.  I’m wearing my nude-colored bralette with this top. 

Dark Skinny Jeans Thrifted from Savers (Old Navy) || Similar options HERE and HERE
I love a good pair of dark skinny jeans.  They are the best jeans to dress up.  You can easily throw on some heels or a blazer and it makes it a work look or a great look for an evening out.  The jeans I’m wearing in this post are Old Navy Rockstar jeans, but I bought them at Savers for only $2.25!!!   

Strappy Heeled Sandals thrifted from ThredUP || Similar options HERE and HERE
I’ve been wanting shoes like this for the longest time.  They remind me of Barbie’s shoes because I feel like they mold your foot into the way a Barbie doll’s foot is.  I found these shoes at ThredUP.  I’ve said this over and over again, but if you’re going to buy used shoes, ThredUP is the best place to buy them.  These shoes are in almost perfect condition. 

Black Satchel Purse Last Call Neiman Marcus || Similar options HERE and HERE
I have had this satchel purse now for over a year now and I never get sick of it.  It’s such a classic look.  They no longer have this purse at Last Call Neiman Marcus, but you can find it on Amazon HERE for under 40!! 

Before I end this post, I just have to share this last picture, because while I was taking pictures in this outfit, my favorite little guy wanted to do some modeling in his outfit too.  It was just too cute, I had to share one of the pictures.  He’s the reason why it’s been taking me weeks to write this blog post.  Every time I get out the computer to write, he pulls me away to go play.  It’s okay though.  How can I resist that face!  I hope you have a great week!!

Filed in: Affordable Fashion, outfits, ThredUp, Thrifty Looks • by Katie Haller • Leave a Comment

Spring Fashion with ThredUp

May 9, 2018 by Katie Haller

I’ve always enjoyed thrift shopping, but it wasn’t until the last couple of years that I became addicted to it.  For me, I love the thrill that thrift shopping gives me.  There is nothing better than walking out of a thrift store with a bag full of new clothes that you spent under $20 for.  When I became a mom, it really changed the way I shopped for myself.  I started to feel guilty spending too much money on myself when I knew I could be using that money towards my family.  That’s why thrifting has become my favorite way to shop.  Not to mention, I really love the idea of recycling your fashion.  It can be so wasteful to go shopping all the time, and then only wear your clothes for a couple of months.  Why not buy second-hand clothes and donate your old clothes?

I know that thrifting is not for everyone, and I feel like the number one excuse that I hear from people is that “I never find anything good.”  I hear ya!  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked into a Goodwill or Savers and left empty-handed.  It’s hard to pick through and find the buried treasures.  Plus so many of the clothes can be very worn or outdated.  This is why I love shopping at ThredUP.
 
*This post is part of a collaboration with ThredUP.  It also contains affiliate links, which means by making a purchase through a link, I will make a small commission for this blog.  All opinions are 100% my own.  Thank you for your support! 
If you’re not familiar with ThredUP, it’s an online thrift store that sells name brand and designer clothes and accessories at up to 90% off of the retailed price.  ThredUP is the perfect thrift store for the people who say they can “never find anything good” when thrift shopping.  Their filter system makes it so easy to find what you’re looking for.  You can filter by size, style, prices, brands and more. Thrift shopping can be time-consuming, that’s why I love how convenient it is to sit on the couch and search through the clothes.  When I like something, I add it to my favorites.  If you want to hold something you like, you can put it into your cart for 24 hours.  The best thing about ThredUP for me is that every item that I have received from them has come to me in perfect condition.  You would never believe that it was used.  Unlike other thrift stores that take all the donations and sell them in the store, ThredUP only sells gently worn items.  Many of their clothes still have the tag on them.  
For this post, I’m sharing 3 outfits that I picked out on ThredUP.  I found 2 dresses, 1 top, 1 skirt and one pair of sandals all under $50!!  
 One-shoulder spring wedding guest dress
I loved this one-shoulder ruffle dress.  It came with the tags on it and was $7.99.  I don’t have anything like it in my closet.  It has very light material, so I know that it will be perfect this summer in the heat.  It’s the perfect dress for a bridal/baby shower or even a casual summer wedding.
Colorful Wrap Dress
I love the fit of an empire waist wrap dress, so when I saw this dress I knew I had to get it.  It was only $9.99.  I think that this style of dress is flattering on all body types.  It’s also a great style for nursing moms or early pregnancy.  I also found these cream-colored sandals for $6.99.  My sandal collection has been in need of an update lately.  I’m always nervous about buying second-hand shoes because you never know what kind of condition they will be in.  Every time I’ve ordered a pair of shoes from ThredUP, they have come to me in perfect condition.  You can’t even tell anyone had ever worn them.  
 Casual work look
Obviously, I can’t ever resist black and white stripes.  It’s such a classic look, so when I came across this Ann Taylor striped skirt for only $7.99,  I couldn’t help myself.  It has a stretchy waist, so it’s comfortable to wear casually.  I also found this white blouse from Target for $7.99, which I’m currently loving.  I never knew how great a white blouse can be.  You can wear it with almost anything.  I wore my sandals with this look.  I felt like this would be a great look for work, if your a teacher or want something a little more casual for the office this summer.  It’s also a great look for church.
I want to say a big thanks to ThredUP for sponsoring this post and letting me have a shopping spree!  This is not the last post you will see with my ThredUP summer clothes.  I’ve just had 3 more polka dot boxes come my way, so I can’t wait to share.  I highly recommend checking out ThredUP if you’re looking to update your summer wardrobe.  Happy Shopping to all of you!!!

Filed in: Affordable Fashion, outfits, ThredUp, Thrifty Looks, Thrifty Tips • by Katie Haller • Leave a Comment

Thrifty Wife Happy Life Profile picture

Hi I'm Katie! Welcome to my blog! I am on a mission to help women build a wardrobe that they love without spending a lot of money doing it. I believe that everyone has the right to feel good in their outfit, no matter what your budget is! I am excited to have you here!
About me

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Follow me

Amazon favorites

Search

Archives

Disclosure

This blog contains affiliate links, which means by clicking on and/or making a purchase through a link I earn a small commission.  For more information click HERE!  Thank you for your support!

Follow

@thriftywifehappylife

thriftywifehappylife

Affordable everyday petite (5’1) mom style
A mix of affordable retailers + thrifted fashion
👨‍✈️Wife + Mom of 2 💙💗
💌 katie@thriftywifehappyllfe.com

I believe that what you wear under clothes can mak I believe that what you wear under clothes can make or break your outfit. This is why I am sharing my favorite, most comfortable undergarments! 

🛍️Comment LINK and I will send you the shopping link to this post! 🔗https://liketk.it/5dB8f

#whattowear #styleover40 #momstyles #momstyleblogger #momshelpingmoms #amazonfinds #straplessbra
Cruise theme night outfits 🛳️ Planning outfi Cruise theme night outfits 🛳️

Planning outfits for a cruises cruise can be so much fun and I can’t resist a good theme night! Each cruise is different, but these were the theme nights from my 3-night Royal Caribbean last year. 

Make sure you check your itinerary to see if your cruise has any theme nights planned! 

🛍️Comment THEME NIGHT and I will send you the shopping link to this post! 🔗https://liketk.it/5dzC7

#cruiseoutfit #themenightoutfits #cruisewear #resortwear #amazondresses #amazonfinds #affordablefashion #outfitideas #styletips
What I wore this week as a 40-year old mom of 2! What I wore this week as a 40-year old mom of 2! 

Happy Mother’s Day!! 💕 Today I am truly embracing this day and remembering how much I always wanted to be a mom! 

I recently came across a journal entry I wrote 10 years ago on Mother’s Day—right after my second miscarriage. I wrote that I was ready to be a mom, but I was so scared and worried about our future. I didn’t know when and if it would actually happen. 

One month later, I was pregnant with my son.

And now here I am, ten years later—tired, busy, deeply grateful, and fully embracing this season I once wanted so so bad! 

To every mom today—in the waiting, in the chaos, or missing the days that flew by—I see you. We are all in this together! 💕

And if you are looking for some mom outfit inspiration then comment OUTFITS and I will send you the shopping links to all my daily outfits from the week!! 🛍️

#mothersday #momoutfits #momstyle #momoutfitideas #outfitideas #dailyoutfits #realoutfits #wiwtw #styleover40
What I wore then vs. What I wore now! I’m upda What I wore then vs. What I wore now! 

I’m updating this outfit I styled back in 2014. I have always loved this outfit combination, so I pulled some clothes from my current wardrobe to recreate the look for 2025! 

🛍️Comment LINK and I will send you the shopping details to the updated look! 🔗https://liketk.it/5de55

#outfitideas #updatingmillenialoutfits #whatiworethenvsnow #workwearoutfit #widelegjeans #chambrayshirt #navyblazer #chicstyle
What I would wear to work if I was still teaching! What I would wear to work if I was still teaching!! 👩‍🏫🍎📚

I’ve been sharing teacher-friendly workwear over the last few weeks here on Instagram. So in honor of #teacherappreciationweek I’m rounding up 4 weeks on the blog today! 

🛍️ Comment TEACHER and I will send you the link to my blog post and the shopping link to this post!! 

🔗https://thriftywifehappyllfe.com/2025/05/what-i-would-wear-4-weeks-of-spring-teacher-outfits/

#teacheroutfits #teacherstyle #workwearoutfits #workwearideas #affordablefashion #styletips
Looking for a cute versatile top for spring and su Looking for a cute versatile top for spring and summer? This $16 striped sweater vest from @walmart is perfect! 

🛍️Comment VEST and I will send you the shopping links to this post! 🔗https://liketk.it/5d6b3

#walmartstyle #walmartfashion #budgetfashion #howtowearit #6waystostyle #outfitideasforyou
I have one month until my Caribbean cruise 🚢 va I have one month until my Caribbean cruise 🚢 vacation and I’ve been outfit planning! 

Here are some looks that I would wear while sightseeing on at the island ports! 

🛍️Comment CRUISE OUTFITS and I will send you the shopping links to this post! 🔗https://liketk.it/5d2E8

#cruisevacation #cruiseoutfit #sightseeingoutfit #whattowear #outfitideas #vacationoutfits
What I wore this week as a 40-year old mom of 2! What I wore this week as a 40-year old mom of 2! 

Which day is your favorite? 

🛍️Comment OUTFITS and I will send you the shopping link to all my daily outfits! 

#outfits #dailyoutfits #dailyoutfitinspo #momstyleinspo #momoutfits #momootd
Follow on Instagram

Copyright © 2025 · Thrifty Wife Happy Life