Sorry if you're confused by this outfit. While it's classic and stylish, it's obviously not for spring… It's the start of my new series, A Thrifty Challenge, for my Thrifty Thursday posts!

I’ve gotten a lot of compliments on items that I have thrifted, both in the past and presently. I know I'm not the only one who can find great deals while thrift shopping. You can do it too! That's why, starting April, I'm going to create a new monthly thrifting challenge for you guys.

I wish I could say I came up with this idea on my own, but it was another blogger who mentioned it to me. She and a friend once thought it would be a cool idea to have a spending limit, and see who could come up with the best outfit from a thrift store. I'm so thankful she shared this idea with me, because I've been having ideas bounce around constantly from her original suggestion. Check out her blog The Fashionable Traveler, she's in Charleston and a total diva, girl boss.

Some examples of what the challenges could be: the best dress find, funkiest accessories, best brands, or the perfect pair of shoes. Sometimes there will be a spending limit and others not, depending on the type of challenge.

I will be hand selecting a winner, based on who I think completed the challenge best, and followed all the required guidelines (below). All purchases must be during that month's challenge and from a thrift store. I will feature the winner, in a post on my blog, the last Thursday of every month. Therefore, I will be picking a winner the last Monday of every month. The deadline for all entries will be that Sunday before (which I will remind everyone via email & social media - subscribe to my blog for quick/easy updates).

Everyone who wishes to participate must submit the following:

1. A legible picture of your receipt of current purchase/s (highlight items used).

2. At least 3 pictures, unedited, showing off your unique finds and how you styled them. Details too, please!

3. Submit the above to: info@valuemindedmama.com and anytime you share your look on social media use #thriftychallenge and tag @valuemindedmama

As this is the end of the month, I am going to start off ‘A Thrifty Challenge’ by sharing a style I created, using pieces that have the most “retail value” and were purchased under $20. All these 'clothing' items are specific thrift store finds. Meaning, they were NOT found by consignment. Consignment stores do not count for these challenges, as they usually have better quality pieces and name brands are easy to spot.

The goal is to get you guys proficient in thrift store shopping, and finding those diamonds in the rough at your local thrift stores. I don't want you to go into these challenges thinking you have to drop a bunch of cash just to find something to meet the requirements. I want you to find pieces that you’ll actually wear, and keep for a few seasons in your closet. It's more of a slow/sustainable fashion stance, and it will help you save money while still getting to show off your love of fashion & clothes. Hopefully you'll find some pieces that you really love, and make them staples in your wardrobe. **In later posts, I will give you some examples of brands that are a ‘score’. These items always maintain their value, are classic pieces and great quality.**

Here's my look with the price break down (and similar items I've selected if you want to “shop my look”)

J.Crew Blazer ($160) $3

LOFT Peplum top ($30) $4.75

Citizens of Humanity Jeans ($200) $2.50

Total $10.25

CHALLENGE: For April's Thrifty Challenge I am putting a $20 cap on your thrifting finds. You can get as many pieces as you want for $20 to create your look, but that is the maximum dollar amount that can be used in your style. All purchases must be made starting now through the end of the challenge (3/30-4/23). You are NOT required to find shoes or accessories from a thrift store in this challenge. Only clothing is required (all clothing must be from your thrift finds).

Recap of guidelines:

1. A legible picture of your receipt, of current purchase/s (highlight items used)

2. At least 3 pictures, unedited, showing off your unique finds and how you styled them. Details too, please!

3. Submit the above to: info@valuemindedmama.com and anytime you share your look on social media use #thriftychallenge and tag @valuemindedmama

I look forward to doing this contest with you guys and seeing your thrifty finds! You got this!! GOOD LUCK!! <3 Amanda