Vintage on line

I have a very pathetic confession to make. I barely know how to dress myself. There, I said it. Now you know. I do a great job picking out adorable outfits for the girls. Even Maddie at the age of almost 14 thinks I have great taste. For them. When it comes to buying clothes for myself, not so much. Part of the problem is that I don't want to dress like a cliche. I'm 36 and lets face it, there are just some things that I should not be wearing. On top of that, I'm a real woman, currently sized 12 with child-bearing hips, thighs that go on forever and not everything looks as good on me as it does on the size 2 model in the catalog. Think skinny jeans!

Yesterday while at Old Navy for the girls, I discovered this denim jacket was on sale for $20. I've been coveting one for a couple of years but I'm very bad about justifying clothing purchases for myself. I only bought it because Maddie made me & the whole time I'm thinking I'd probably return it. Then when I got it home I realized that I love it and that it will work with so many things I already own. It's inspired me to want to put together a real wardrobe, to put more effort in how I dress. I want to be more stylish but still act my age. So this is my challenge. Where do I shop if my taste leans towards classic (not stuffy), preppy, youthful (not teenager), artistic (free spirited) clothing and I'm on a budget? What do I buy to put together a good basic wardrobe for a stay-at-home Mom, who volunteers at school & occasionally has date night with her Sweet Hubby? Are there any good magazines or websites for grown women, where I can get the fashion advice I so clearly need so that I don't embarrass my family in public?