i am proud and fortunate to be an army wife so i can drive past target and wal-mart and head to the PX.  if i can’t find it there then i add it to my drugstore.com list.

my issue with big box stores is getting in and out with only the items i went there for.  i’m not really saving money on less-expensive items if i’m buying them unnecessarily.

First off, about the “update” as of 12/17: I don’t think that anyone was doubting you, TBF, that Walmart is doing well during these tough economic times.  I believe what most folks had issue with was you deeming it the “hot new store”.

Secondly: while I do praise you for fueling this discussion on your blog, it’s been AGES since you’ve had a post as interesting as this.  This post was classic “TBF”, the kind that hasn’t been seen in months.  Am I the only one to notice that your site has turned into mostly ads and posts about sales alerts and store discount codes?  While those are always fun to look at, it’s the “meaty content” about staying frugal that I crave, and that’s far and few between on your site these days.  I realize you’ve hit the big time; been on Oprah, have the book, a TV show coming up, etc. But it’s sad to see your blog deteriorate to one big sales circular.

Actually I think if you take the time to read labels Walmart is a fine choice. No you probably shouldn’t choose to buy your whole wardrobe there but Walmart is wonderful for standard pieces that last. Walmart’s 100% cotton t-shirts are a steal at $5-$7 and last for years, something I can’t say for my Old Navy ones which are so think you can see right through them. Now they even make them in flattering fits with a wider range of sizing.

That Norma Kamali line is awesome.  It doesn’t look good on the hanger, but give it a try in the cardboard box wal-mart calls a dressing room.  The jersey dresses are awesome.