One dress, two occasions

As you know by now, I like to maximize my wardrobe as much as possible by taking a dress or outfit and wearing it over and over again, but make it seem different by changing accessories and shoes. While this dress is so powerful it doesn't look like I have changed it much, I have at least made it appropriate for two different occasions.

On the left, I'm rockin some heels and a lovely handbag, making the dress perfect for work or church or maybe even a shower or similar occasion. On the right, I'm rockin flats and a cross the body bag making this outfit perfect for a more casual Saturday morning farmer's market stroll or a Sunday afternoon picnic.

Here's the cheapskate outfit breakdown:

1. Sundress, Dress Barn (?? - so old)
2. Brown peep toe shoes, Strawberry ($19.99)
3. Adrienne Vittadini handbag, TJ Maxx ($69.99)
4. Wayfarers, Urban Outfitters ($10.00)
5. Cross body bag, Hammers (?? - so old it was bought for prom!)
6. Flat sandals, Payless ($16.99 -- but they are on sale now for $12.99)

Photos: Laura Menconi

Free Fun: Pepper Place Saturday Market

Photo: Alby Headrick

It's probably clear by now that I love being outdoors. But it has to be something that draws me to the outdoors; there has to be some type of activity involved. Basically, some reason to motivate me to get out into the 97 degree Alabama heat. Enter motivation #1: the Pepper Place Saturday Market.

The Pepper Place Market, open from 7 a.m. to 12 noon in the Lakeview District, is one of those classic Saturday morning activities. Grab the dog or the boyfriend or the kid(s) and head down to the market for a fun and potentially free Saturday morning. I say potentially because you'd have to be the frugalest of frugals to walk outta there without spending a dime. There are far too many tempting deals on fruits and veggies and flowers and delicious baked goods and coffees and cute artsy gift items to possibly resist.

In addition to great buys, there's also some pretty good entertainment...and yes, it's free! There seems to always be live music and cooking demonstrations going on every Saturday. Click here for the June schedule of events, including the musical lineup and local chef cooking demos.

While I won't personally be able to make it out there this Saturday since I have signed up to volunteer for the tornado relief, I do plan to get out there sometime soon. And if you're not in Birmingham, I'm sure there is another great farmer's market/open air market near you. But be sure to beat the heat—and the crowds—and go early!

Have a great weekend ya'll!