I get asked all the time, “where did you get those shoes?” Or, “OMG, I love your outfit, where did you get it?” So before I share my shopping tips on where to buy the best shoes and clothes, I want to share an experience I had yesterday at the Food Lion. As I was walking down one of the aisles, I looked up from my shopping list and was stopped and stunned at what I saw walking towards me. I’m sorry, but yes, I was staring; I just couldn’t help myself. Was I being bad, am I really being bad writing about it? You be the judge. A young woman, I guess maybe in her late 20s or early 30s, blonde hair, chopped every which way, and a large pink sweep of hair over one eye. Scan down, a midriff T with a picture of a red tongue on it. I think she had shorts on, but maybe not. The pockets were hanging out on both sides with a little bit of material where the zipper was. Benefit of the doubt - maybe her dog got a hold of them. If I would have even tried to walk out of my house looking like this, I would have been grounded for a month, or at least until I gained a little respect for myself.
    Then, on the same day, I walked into the Marshalls in West Ocean City and there in front of me was a mother with, I think, her two daughters. They had their ‘little’ Catholic school uniforms on; I say ‘little’ because these were no Catholic uniforms of olden days. I had friends in Catholic school who as soon as they walked out the door, would roll the waitstbands up so their skirts were mid-thigh. No more, I guess, ‘cause these girls had skirts on that hardly covered their butts. What happened to Catholic schools teaching the girls respect for themselves. I guess with role models such as Christine Aguilera and Beyonce, that is a thing of the past.
    My son Patrick said to me one day, “Mom, if you ever come downstairs ready for a band job looking slutty, I’m gonna tell you.” I love and respect my son and would hope that everyone has someone that would do the same for them. Look in the mirror and ask yourself, “Respectful, classy? That’s what I strive for.

 

TIP #1 - ROSS & MARSHALLS
    Why in the world with the economy the way it is, would anyone pay hundreds of dollards for one pair of shoes when you can get two or three for the same price at these stores. I usually find what I’m looking for at Ross and don’t even make it to Marhsalls. Low prices, good quality and name brands.

 

TIP #2 – BODY CENTRAL - Tanger Outlets in West Ocean City
    This store has today’s latest fashions at such low prices; I really got myself in trouble on my first visit. Their marked-down rack has items for $3. You won’t find any office wear in this store. I have found a whole outfit for $25, including matching shoes.

 

TIP #3 – UPTOWN CHESAPEAKE - Salisbury
    Lee at Malibu’s turned me on to this store a year ago. They advertise that you can take in your barely worn shoes and clothes and they will give you cash for them. Heads up, though, if they are not top fashion, you’re wasting your time. I also found out that they buy designer samples on trips to New York and bring them back to Salisbury. Great prices and some very unique, one-of-a- kind pieces.
    When I dress for a casual day, date night or the stage, I do it with respect for myself first. Now you know my favorite places to find my unique clothes, and, of course, my shoes.
    It’s all about the shoes!
    If you have any suggestions for future columns or tips to share, friend me on facebook or email me at lindasears53@aol.com