the only alternative to fashion is naked.

Adding to a post from a couple of weeks ago, this entry is showing how to turn all your cute summer sundresses into staples of your fall wardrobe!

Just because the dresses above are floral, doesn't mean they're not on trend for fall. They are! Just add a few key pieces and accessories, and you've got a whole new look. No need to stash them away until next summer!

The look on the left I've put together for work: the pretty floral pattern is made more work-appropriate with an on-trend eggshell blazer and metallic oxfords. Finally, pull the look together with a skinny leather belt at your waist, and a chunky necklace.

The look on the right would be the perfect date look! Pull the rich color of the floral pattern and pair with a complimentary blazer (or cardigan). Add opaque black tights (or patterned, if you feel even more daring!), and chunky booties. The mix of feminine/tough is VERY now. Pile on the accessories and you're ready for whatever your  night has to offer. Date.. or girls night! 

so before you pack away your summer favorites, think of fresh ways to wear them for months to come!

xoxo! 

Not sure about you guys, but the 'thrift-store-chic' trend initially did nothing for me. I had no interest in picking out pre-worn items...and besides, I felt 'if the owner didn't want them, why would I?!'

But through much research, I now 'get it'...and I want you all to embrace this too!

Below are some tips I feel will help the fashionable lady shop at thrift stores! (including Goodwill and the Salvation Army!)

First, the reasons why you should shop for trendy items at thrift stores is really quite obvious: trends are just that: something that won't necessarily be in style next month! No reason to spend $30 for something you could potentially find for 90% less!

tip #1) shop for what's on trend right now. it's true that 'everything old becomes new again'. Menswear style blouses, pencil skirts, harem pants, and high waisted trousers are on everyone's 'fall must-haves' list, but they were also popular in the 70's and 80's. Make a list of items you hope you find at said thrift store, and bring it with you. Take the time to search, and then try on your finds. Remember, if you find a blazer you MUST have (at a great price point!) and it's inexpensive but a little too large, you can always have it tailored.

tip #2) ALWAYS try ALL items on. you can't return things to a thrift store, so you need to know exactly what you're working with. Perhaps you try it on and notice a small hole, or a stain you didn't see before. Evaluate what you would wear with each piece you pick up...a $5 blouse is not such a great steal if you never wear it. Also, be mindful of sizing differences. For example, current clothing is looser fitting now than it was in previous decades. In other words, you may be a larger size in 'vintage' pieces!

tip #3) find a good thrift store. Most thrift stores are clean and rotate their stock often. Take a couple of weekends to find your favorite thrift store. Get to know the staff, and they may even let you know when a new shipment of goodies comes in!

tip #4) shop with someone. If you're anything like me, you can get excited about something and then "have to have" it. Having someone with you can give you another set of eyes AND opinions. "will you wear that?" or "that color is no good on you". Bring your best friend or enjoy a Saturday afternoon with your mom. Make a day of it and make it fun!

tip #5) look for items with tags still on! If you're on the hunt for something current, look for items with the tags still on it. I've given a LOT of things to Goodwill or other thrift stores that I've never worn, tags attached and all. I'm sure I'm not the only one! As with anything though, make sure to try it on!

tip #6) wash all clothes as soon as you get home. <<- no brainer. :)

tip #7) for every item you buy from a thrift store, agree to give them an item from your closet. Especially if thrifting becomes a habit...share the love!




hope you found this informative and helpful!
enjoy your day!
xoxo :)