Thrift Finds: Retro Charm

E here, I picked up this adorable little number for just $7.99 at Goodwill the other day. Funny story; my husband came in and asked "where did that come from?" I replied that "I just bought it at Goodwill today. Isn't it darling?" Of course my husband, (being the man that he is,) remarked that it looks like something that you would see someone in Florida wearing." I didn't know if I should take this as a compliment, or as a playful jab. That's the thing though, fashion is a means of personal expression and others might not always get it. After all, you know how guys are! Mine isn't exactly the most stylish. [Sorry honey but it's true!]

What I love about this dress is the retro charm. There's something about the whimsical tropical print that just caught my eye. It immediately stood out to me on the rack. For me, thrifting is like treasure hunting. I look for things that are unique, and that stand out. 

Take this dress for example, I absolutely love the detailed print. Its fun yet flirty, making it the perfect summer dress. That's the beauty of thrifting, you never know what great pieces you might stumble upon. 

Doesn't the purse go with the dress just perfectly? That was my first thought as soon as I saw it. In true blogger form, I was already planning outfits in my head!

I normally don't go for small bags, but its always good to have a purse in every shape and size for any occasion. This one will be perfect for travel and those days when I just don't feel like lugging a big, heavy bag around.  [I feel like this is a problem that all stylish females struggle with! style versus practicality.....size versus versatility, etc.]

That's the beauty of thrift shopping, you can walk away with several purses (designer even) for relatively cheap. I've built up quite a collection of wallets, clutches, and purses over the years from great brands such as Coach, Betsey Johnson, Dooney and Bourke, Kate Spade, just to name a few. Well that's all the time we have for today. Happy thrifting!

-E

Final Thrift Haul of 2013!

 

 

 

Pictured from right; purple cardigan: Ann Taylor Loft $7.99, booties: Sam Edelman $19.99, jacket: Calvin Klein $24.97, shoes: Merona $5.99, print blouse: $7.99.

 

E here, before we ring in the new year I had to do one last thrift haul. I know its long overdue, so its only fitting that I do it before the new year! All of the items in this haul I acquired from two different trips to Goodwill. As I have mentioned in previous thrift posts, shopping at Goodwill is hit or miss, but I have found that it is simply a matter of diligence. If you have the patience to take the time to look through racks and bins you can find great deals. For instance, some of the items that I found on this haul I merely spotted last minute. The Sam Edelman boots pictured below were sitting in a bin full of shoes as my friend and I were leaving the dressing room when they caught my eye. So you see, it is simply a matter of keeping your eyes peeled!

 

 

 

When it comes to shopping for shoes at thrift stores it is important to inspect them for any noticeable wear, damage, or flaws before buying them. The reason that I emphasize this is because some thrift stores have a strict "all sales are final policy." This is also typical of flea markets, estate sales, and garage sales where returning items is obviously impossible. I have never had any problems with shoes that I've purchased from sales or thrift stores, I simply say it out of caution.

 

 

 

What I love about these booties is that they are so versatile and look great with just about any outfit. Much to my husband's discord my boot collection continues to grow! I have never been a tennis shoe kind of girl, I have always preferred boots, flats, sandals, heels, etc. Personally, I find boots and flats to be far more comfortable and ascetically pleasing. Not to mention the fact that boots give me a bit of a lift! When you are shorter like myself, a heeled boot can give you a little extra height.

 

 

You may recognize this jacket as I have worn it several times already. A girl can never have enough jackets! The one below was a real gem to find as its vintage!

 

 

Blouse: Ann Taylor Loft $7.99, fur coat: Frederick & Nelson jacket: $12.99.

 

Well that's all I have for now, check back soon for thrifting tips and styling advice. Happy thrifting!

-E

What I Thrifted: Loading Up On the Basics

 

Whenever I go thrifting I always try to pick pieces that are unique and will build to my existing wardrobe. The whole point of thrifting is to look for great deals on clothes, shoes, and accessories that would otherwise be expensive. When thrifting it's important to keep in mind that you pick items that compliment what you already own. You will notice that I use the term "compliment" quite often on this blog. The reason that I emphasize choosing items that are "complimentary" is because you want to buy things that you will get maximum use value out of. For instance, you will notice that all of the items pictured here are tanks. Tanks serve as a great base for layering in any outfit which is why I was tried to look for a good selection of different styles.

Price Breakdown:  Goodwill

1. *Limited ruffle tank: $7.99 - $4.00

2. Forever 21 floral tank: $3.99

3. *Calvin Klein tank: $4.99 - $2.50

4. Cyrus black and white tank: $4.99

*All of the starred items were colored tags that were on sale for 50% off that day. As I mentioned in a previous post, you should always try to find the color tag item that's on sale that day because you will save a few extra bucks.

 

On this shopping trip I determined that I was only going to look for tanks because I needed them to build up my wardrobe for layering with jeans and skirts. When shopping for tanks to layer under other items, you want to look for styles and fits that will go with a wide array of clothes. Personally, I look for patterns and textures that are interesting and would look good with a cardigan or trench coat. In my previous post you'll notice that I'm wearing the ruffle Limited tank pictured above with a polka dot trench coat. In sum, once you have some good pieces to build a foundation for layering upon, feel free to mix patterns and textures and see what looks good on you. The thing that I love most about my thrifted wardrobe is the freedom to experiment with different styles.

These two basic staples will be a great addition to my wardrobe because floral and stripes go with practically anything. The floral top will look cute with shorts and skirts in the spring and summer, and will serve as a good base for layering the rest of the year. The stripe piece is a gem because it's classy and retro looking. You can't go wrong with black and white, and the shoulder bow really tops off the retro chic look. Well that's all for now. If you want to hear more style tips and see what I thrifted this week check back soon. Happy thrifting!

-E