Dealing with a changing, aging body in a culture that worships the young and firm isn’t easy, especially if you still want to look fashionable/sexy/cute/hip/funky/cool. And try doing any of that on a thrift-store budget (hell yeah, I could look amazing with $5,000 to spend, What Not to Wear!).

When I turned 30, all hell broke loose. Cute guys started calling me “Ma’am” instead of “Miss” or even “Hey Baby.” Everything I ate showed up around my middle–and wouldn’t come off. Then I had two kids.  I tried to think positive thoughts (How amazing that my body can grow and nurture two human beings! Thank goodness all of my various parts work the way I want them to!), but my body image suffered. It hurt to realize I’d never fit into half of my wardrobe again, not to mention had nowhere to wear it (can’t chase a toddler up the jungle gym in vintage silk–back to the thrift store).

Now that I’m 40, my attitude is shifting. I enjoy the respect implied when someone calls me “Ma’am.” I’m becoming more comfortable with my body, focusing on its positives and dressing to focus on those positives. I’m interested in looking more pulled together, but with limited funds and a mom-on-the-go lifestyle, not to mention environmental impact concerns, I need to get creative. Thrift stores, discount sales, closet remixing, and simple at-home alterations are my new go-tos for keeping my wardrobe feeling fresh and stylish. And I hope to share some of my ideas with you!

So grab some style inspiration, go thrifting, and get out the needles and thread. It’s time to show ‘em that ladies of any age, size, and shape can have style without breaking the bank. Yes, Ma’am!