To kick-off the new year, I sat down and chatted with online shopping expert, Michelle Madhok. Michelle took the time out to offer us some key details of how to value items we already have. In addition to being founder of SheFinds.com and MomFinds.com, Michelle also gave us some insight on how to manage being an entrepreneur. Check out what tips she gave us to start your year off right!

Being an expert on online shopping, why do you think so many consumers lack value in the items they are purchasing and how it affects their lives?

People are buying a lot of valuable items this season. I think that they are looking for things that they are going to love and that is what value really is. Being able to use things that you already have is also important, I’ve become kind of obsessed with extending the life of things that I currently have in my closet.

The majority of our readers are young professionals with tight budgets. What are some tips or tricks that you can offer to spruce up their wardrobe?

A couple of things. A belt is a great thing to own. It can be used over a dress or a sweater and can change the whole look of an outfit. I especially love accessories like scarves, especially when I travel. For those of you who may do corporate travel, try not to pack a lot of clothes, instead, pack accessories that can change one outfit into many looks. I also think it is important to have a good tailor. There maybe some things in your closet that just don’t fit right or it’s not the right trend that can be altered.

As an entrepreneur, do you have any advice to people looking to get into the fashion industry or starting their own business?

Well I think it definitely is something that you have to love, because you will be working all the time. I started in 2004 and I am never off the clock. I wouldn’t trade it or work for anyone else, so my advice is to not give up.

What are some items that we can add around the house to make it more calm and relaxing after a long day’s work?

I love having my clothes and linens smell really amazing, so I buy a detergent like Gain that comes in a variety different scents. Since you only have to use a cap full, you get more product out of the bottle. Whatever mood you are in, they have a scent that would work for you.

When our surroundings are organized we tend to lead less stressful lives. What are some organizational tools that we can use both at home and the office?

When you have a cleared out closet or desk drawer, it sort of clears your mind. Sometimes when I am stuck in my business, I do a “clean-out” around the office and at home. It’s good to clear the clutter, which I think is great for people to try when they are stressed.

Can you give our readers a few fashion tips for the winter season?

If you have a pair of rain boots buy fleece liners or sheep-skin liners and put them inside the boots. This makes them into winter boots, which is great because it’s getting colder. You can do the same thing with tights, especially plush tights. Which you can wear with a summer dress and put a sweater under or over the dress. Then you have a long-sleeve winter dress, which you can wear all season round.

As young professionals living on a tight budget and constantly running, I am sure that we can each find value in the advice that Michelle provided. To learn more about the women’s online content pioneer log on to www.shefinds.com or about her “Find Value and Get More Out of the Things You Have” campaign log on to www.ilovegain.com.