By: Chrysa Smith

skippies

If we said it once, we said it—well at least twice. One way to jazz up, fashion forward, youth up your wardrobe is with some fun fashion accessories. So this week, that’s what I did.

When I went for my regular haircut, one of the hairdressers was dressed all in black. Big surprise, huh? Although it’s classic, whether you’re wearing the infamous little black dress or a top with leggings, black needs a little lift. Either silver jewelry, a scarf, some color or texture. I looked down and she had these adorable animal print shoes on. It crossed my mind that I would like something like this for my black outfits. They way they looked, with my myopic eyes, was expensive. Animal prints are rarely cheap, unless cheesy. So I mentioned how cute they were and I got a big surprise. They were five dollars from the store Five Below.

Whoa! Five Below is the chain store I frequented when my son was young. Great toy finds for kids and teeny boppers. But something for me? Fashion? So I stopped there on the way home and was surprised to find all of these great kicky flats in a variety of colors. I bought myself the animal prints and a pair of gray (maybe boring, but it goes with lots of my outfits). When I finally pull out my warm weather wardrobe (Please, Mother Nature, we’re begging you!), I might just head back for some more shades. Vibrant pink, that deep ocean blue, purple—-what great fun. And to boot, they’re comfortable.

I wore mine the other day and got a few compliments (OK, one was from MaryFran). But you catch my drift. They feel good to wear and interesting enough for others to notice. Now, if you’re one who wants Prada or Christian Louboutin shoes, they’re not for you. But for those of us who want a little canvas kicker, they’re just perfect.

But fashion finds at Five Below go further than shoes. While I was not in the market, they also carry yoga pants and tops, scarves and even some totes that are darn cute. And to be totally hip, there are even fun accessories for your Smart Phone, IPad and other electronic devices. Oh, and as you might guess if you didn’t already know, everything in the store is $5 or less.

On my way out, the impulsive purchaser in me even picked up $1 drink umbrellas for some summer fun—like a kid in the proverbial candy store, the whole experience made my day. In fact, I think I’ll have a little fun tomorrow and work my wardrobe around those animal print numbers.

Five Below information and locations can be found at: www.fivebelow.com.