robin hood, princess of style

maxi dress :: downeast basics (get it here) | earrings :: downeast basics | belt :: maurice's | moto jacket :: H&M (similar) | leather wrist wraps :: c/o salvage west | leaf necklace :: 2 brave girls | moccasin necklace :: from my grandma | purse :: aldo's | leopard wedges :: express (love this pair) | sunglasses :: charlotte russe

A slew of clothing shops have opened up in Tooele over the last few months, and DownEast Basics has now added their name to the list. I stopped by one night last week post-work and was very pleased with the infinite outfit potential I stumbled into. The prices are a tad higher than stores like Forever 21 and H&M, but DownEast also carries a number of name brands, such as Lucky and Anthropologie, for much less than usual retail (similar to Uptown Cheapskate, but with a lot more of their own inventory). I even happened upon a Lucky Brand black leather jacket for just $149... alas that I don't wear real leather.

I did, however, snag the olive green maxi dress and fire catcher earrings pictured here, in addition to a giantly oversized yellow cardigan, for just $67, and not having to pay for gas to drive to Salt Lake City meant that I still had enough money left to buy dinner for my sister and I (which somehow ended up being smoothies from Roxberry).

And honestly, both my sister and I really kind of hated this dress until I pulled it on... but as soon as I slid it over my head, we both fell in love. The cut is unexpectedly and perfectly flattering, and the unique shape of the bust and shoulders made me feel like a Princess Robin Hood - I felt like I should be toting around a bow and arrow instead of an orange purse and a moto jacket.

Overall, most of the clothes hanging on the racks at DownEast Basics were stylish and comfortable. They have a trendy but tasteful look that I think will appeal to any woman with a decent sense of style, and the longer hemlines and more modest cuts will certainly please professional and conservative ladies alike. If you live in Tooele, I'd definitely suggest stopping at DownEast Basics before heading to Salt Lake City for your next shopping trip; it's in the same shopping center as Cafe Rio (incidentally, close to Maurice's and Custom Edge as well). You can use the money you save on gas to buy me ice cream!