Cross-promotion: Give Me Paisley and Parasols!

As both a writer and lover of free stuff, I will from time to time offer free cross-promotion to blogs that I feel reflect the spirit of what I like to call "creative frugality." This time around, I'm giving a shout out to "Give Me Paisley and Parasols!", a fashion blog written by my friend Christine Stoddard, who I met while on a trip to Washington, D.C. for the 2007 Al Neuharth Free Spirit Awards. Christine is currently a student at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond.

A longtime creative writer and fashionista, Christine effectively blends these two passions in her blog. She regularly pursues projects that explore various areas of fashion, from how to emulate a particular style on a budget to reflections on French fashion, which she completed during a study abroad trip to La Rochelle, France.

One of my favorite parts of Christine's fashion philosophy is her $10-or-less rule, meaning that no one item in a particular outfit should set you back more than $10. This is easily done, she says; it just takes a little work and creativity. She's a huge fan of thrift stores and flea markets, and has even reported acquiring some items for free! :)

Christine's latest project is entitled "Roaming the Halls in Style," which deals with back-to-school fashion past and present. Check it out!