As most of you know, I document my daily outfits through Instagram. Some people have politely asked why I don’t include the clothing brands in my posts. Here’s my answer:

To me, fashion is not about brand names. It’s about wearing clothing that gives me confidence.

If I can feel confident in an unheard-of brand that I found at Goodwill, I’ll gladly wear it. I don’t have too much pride that I feel I must wear specific brands from only the best boutiques and department stores. Frankly, I don’t have the budget to do that anyway. (did I mention that I’m a teacher??)

90% of my clothing comes from Goodwill.

The other reason that I don’t include brand names in my posts is because I try to inspire others to work with the budget they have to create the looks that makes them feel confident too. If I’m wearing a sweater from Banana Republic (but it came from Goodwill, like the picture above), I don’t want to inspire others to shop away their clothing budget at Banana Republic trying to replicate my look when really, I just used simple creative principles to create the look (that I could create with any brand of sweater).

There you have it. Unless I’m bombarded with the question of “what brand is that?!?!” (like the case with my Fall boots) you won’t see me posting brand names.

HERE’S YOUR LITTLE FASHION CHALLENGE: This week, I challenge you to work with the budget you have (no matter how small) to create at least 1 budget-friendly look that makes you feel confident, disregarding the brand. Try to use unheard-of brands or things you find thrifting. It’s possible (I’m doing it!) to create beautiful professional looks on a Goodwill budget. So get out there and try it! If you instagram it, tag it #littlefashionchallege and I’ll come cheer you on (just an FYI, you’ll most likely be an inspiration to others who may not be comfortable thrifting yet and may need a little encouragement!) There’s no one more beautiful and fashionable than a person who is cheerful in spirit while inspiring others. (chances are, if I follow you on IG, then you are beautiful in spirit and have inspired me in one way or another!)

If you’re not on Instagram, no biggie, just submit your look through the tab above!

I will be posting/interviewing those with the most inspiring looks on the blog next week …one of those looks could be yours! Good luck #fashiondiaries guys and gals!