Thriftspiration is a series that puts a spotlight on readers who share their secondhand shopping tips and fun ways to style thrifted finds.

Thriftspiration looking fly on a dime

Name: Jackline Location: Toronto, Canada

When and why did you start thrift shopping?  I started thrifting almost 2 years ago when a friend got me hooked on it. Now, I’m addicted. I continue to thrift for the great finds, prices and the thrill of the hunt.What three words would you use to describe your style? Simple. Practical. Classy
How did you style your outfit and what styling tips do you have? The styling tip I would offer is know what works best for you and finding inspiration through magazines, blogs or where ever. I like to invest in basic pieces that are classic and can be worn multiple times with multiple things.

top moments at essence music fest

If you're not familiar with Essence Music Festival or you've never attended the 3-day event, you should change that ASAP. The New Orleans based festival has been going down for 19 years and by day it's home to empowering seminars and by night, features some of the world's top musical acts.I had the pleasure of attending EMF last week {my second year in a row} and in between hosting my Best Dressed Madame event and stuffing my face {try the chargrilled oysters at  Acme Oyster House and share a platter of fried seafood at Deanie's}, I took in shows, a few events and even got in a bit of shopping. Take a peek at my top 5 Essence Fest moments, including stellar performances that blew me away and how I scored a unique purse for just $20.

 essence music fest beauty suitesThough most people associate Essence Music Festival with music and the amazing food of New Orleans, there were quite a few beauty events going on. So many beauty soirees went down that I almost didn't have enough room in my suitcase. The pic below shows how jam packed my bag was of goodies I scored from some of my favorite brands. My luggage weighed in at 47.5 pounds and undoubtedly, half of that was hair and body products. And of course all of the products are super affordable.
natural hair products, body products

 
Arcadia fall preview
Last week I attended a press event for the Arcadia Group and though I was tempted to skip it {crazy schedule!}, I'm so glad I didn't. Arcadia Group might not sound familiar, you certainly know their brands, which include Dorothy Perkins, Miss Selfridge, Wallis and Evans.
This was the British company's first press day outside of Great Britain and after reviewing what they have in store for fall and winter, I'm so glad I made it. Besides being fashionable and statement making, the pieces are affordable. How affordable? I'm talking most items are less than $50!

graphic print sneakersWhat: Simpsons Chuck Taylor All Star sneakersWhy: Everyone needs a fresh pair of bold kicks for the season.Unless I'm working out, I'm not much of a sneaker girl. But the one brand of sneakers I'll rock anytime, anyplace is a pair of Chucks. They have a classic, Americana feel and pair well with everything.So I was really excited and intrigued when I heard my favorite brand was releasing a collection with The Simpsons, the longest running scripted show in television history.